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Digitized by the Internet Archive 
in 2010 with funding from 
The Library of Congress 



http://www.archive.org/details/commemorativebioOOegle 



.>««** 



COMMEMORATIVE 



Biographical Encyclopedia 



-OF- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 

PENNSYLVANIA, 



CONTAINING 



Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens, 

and Many of the Early Scotch-Irish 

and German Settlers. 



ILLUSTRATED. 



1896. 



CHAMBERSBURG, PA. 

J. M. RUNK & COMPANY, 
Publishers. 







Daily Telegraph Print, 
Harrisburg, Pa. 



5 4-- 



PREFATORY NOTE. 



There is no more exalted feature in the history of any locality than that 
which relates to the individual — whether he has passed from off the stage of action 
a century ago, or whether we cross his path daily in the intercourse with our 
fellow-men. It is unfortunately true that while we may delight in the record of 
the lives of the former, and regret that there is not more known of what they 
were and what they accomplished in their day and generation, the almost cynical 
sneer comes as we glance over the meagre data which our fellow-citizens have 
gathered up to send down the paths of futurity as their legacy to the biography 
of the present. We wish it were otherwise, that just such a volume as the 
Publisher has in this instance essayed to give us would be as thoroughly appreciated 
as the descendants of those herein named will in the days to come. Sneer, as some 
may, it is a noble undertaking — this preservation of the narrative of the life work 
of the many, although humble and meagre they may perchance be. No two 
persons reach the same mark, or accomplish identical work, and yet every one 
has his mission to fill. To us who are living near the close of the nineteenth 
century, and have learned to revel in the researches into the past, the facts herein 
gathered should have a charm. The present will soon belong to the past, and 
thus, as the years roll on apace, the very biographical sketches here contained will 
be more highly treasured. We believe the Publisher has proven faithful to the 
trust, and the people of Dauphin County will find a fair record of its people. 
If the sketches of some who ought to have a place here are wanting, it is 
certainly not the fault of the Publisher — it is that of the individual. The former 
has sought to give a representative work; it is the neglect of the latter if this 
is not the case. 



PREFATORY NOTE. 
As introductory to this volume, a brief resume of the history of the county 
iven, with other data nowhere else to be found, and that feature is peculiar 
his work. The genealogical information, meagre in some respects, will be of 
eding value to those in search of the records of their ancestry. And, although 
j objections may be made to the orthography of many surnames, yet we give 
as we find them in official documents. 

In conclusion, as most of the biographies were submitted to those interested, 
rs of fact or date ought not to fall upon the Publisher, whom we firmly 
jve has used his best endeavors to give his subscribers a perfectly reliable as 
as valuable book. 

W. H. E. 



In presenting the Biographical Encyclopedia of Dauphin County to its 
I 'ons, the Publishers acknowledge, with gratitude, the encouragement and support 

r enterprise has received, and the willing assistance rendered in enabling them 
surmount the many unforeseen obstacles to be met with in the production of 
I'ork of such magnitude. To procure the material for its compilation, official 
>rds were carefully examined, newspaper files searched, manuscripts, letters and 
inoranda were sought, and a corps of competent solicitors visited every portion 
the county and secured information direct from the parties concerned. Great 
3 was taken to have the sketches as free from error as possible, but we do not 
d ourselves responsible for mistakes, as we charge nothing for the insertion of 
r printed matter contained in the book. In the compilation of the biographies 

were ably assisted by William H. Egle, M. D., State Librarian of Pennsylvania, 
1 who is the author of the introductory chapter headed " Historical Review of 
uphin County;" Rev. A. S. Dudley, D. D., of Cincinnati, Ohio; Harry I. 
iber, of Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa., and Miss R. H. Schively, of Chambers- 
rg, the latter being one of the most accomplished literary scholars of the 
mberland Valley. 

J. M. RUNK & CO. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



Page. 

Historical Review of Dauphin County, 1 

The Scotch-Irish Immigration, 1 

The Early German Settlers, 3 

John Harris, Trader and Pioneer, 7 

Early Assessment List: 

North End of Paxtang, 1750, 11 

Narrows of Paxtang, 1751, 11 

West Side of Paxtang, 175L, 11 

South End of Paxtang, 1751, 11 

Return of Paxtang, 1756, 12 

Return of Paxtang, 1758, 13 

Paxtang Continental Tax, 1779, 14 

Return of Middletown, 1779, . . 15 

Return, Upper Paxtang, 1779, 15 

Return, Upper District, Wiconisco, 1770, 16 

Return, Located Tracts, Wiconisco, 1779, 16 

Return, West End of Deny, 1756, 16 

Return, East Side Derry, 1758, ' . . . 19 

Return, West Side Derry, 1758, 19 

Return, Derry Township, 1769, 19 

Return, Derry Township, 1770, 20 

Return, Frederick Town, 1770, ■ . . 20 

Return, East End of Hanover, 1750, 20 

Return, East End of Hanover, 1756, 21 

Return, West End of Hanover, 1756, 21 

Hanover Assessment, 1769, 21 

Hanover Assessment, 1782, 22 

Leading Events to War for Independence, ■ 24 

The Paxtang Boys' Affair, 28 

The Hanover Resolutions of 1774, 32 

Historic Resume, 1785-1896, 33 

The " Buckshot War," 37 

The County Centennial, 40 

Origin of Dauphin County Names of Places, 42 



TABLE OF CONSENTS. 



larly Settlers in the " Upper End :" 

How the Early Settlers Lived, 45 

Settlement of Uniontown, 4g 

Settlement of Wiconisco, ^g 

Old Settlers of Lykens, 4g 

Tlie Early History of Gratz, 47 

Early Families in the " Upper End," 48 

The Lykens Valley Coal Development, 52 

Andrew Lycans, 55 

enealogical Notes, 53 

)me Early Dauphin County Families: 

Family of the Founder of Harrisburg, 77 

Allisons, of Deny, gg 

Balsbaugh Family, gg 

Baums, of Derry, g7 

Brubaker and Meetch, gg 

Clark, of Clark's Valley, ■ • ■ . 93 

Cochrans, of Paxtang, 04 

Crawfords, of Hanover, gg 

Enders Family, gg 

Fahnestock Family, gg 

Fetterhoff Family, 40g 

Fox Family, of Derry, 4Qg 

Geddes, of Derry, _ 440 

Geiger Family, -^^1 

Harris Family, of Derry, 442 

Hayes, of Derry, 444 

Hershey Family, 445 

Hoffman, of Lykens Valley, 41g 

Marcus Hulings and his Family, 118 

Hummel Family, 424 

Kelly, of Londonderry, 424 

Landis Family, 428 

LaRue Family, 428 

Leebrick Family, 429 

Lehman Family, • ._ 434 

Lingle Family, 432 

McClures, of Paxtang and Hanover, 433 

Mitchell Family, 434 

Nissley Family, ...... 135 

Renick, of Paxtang, 438 

Sawyer Family, 138 

Shelly, of Shelby's Island, 1 39 

Simpsons, of Paxtang, 142 

Sloans, of Hanover, 142 

Stewart, of Paxtang, 145 

Stewarts, of Hanover, 14g 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 
Uraholtz Family, 



Weise Family, of Lykens Valley, ........... \ \f q 

Wiggins Family, ■ • ' " 4J 

Youngs, of Hanover, - 151 

Some Industries of Harrisburg: 152 

Pennsylvania Steel Works, 

Chesapeake Nail Works, 

Central Iron Works, .■ 155 

> -I p-p* 

Harrisburg Foundry and Machine Works, ' ' ' i«« 

W. 0. Hickok Manufacturing Company, . .' JZ 

Lalance & Grosjean Manufacturing Company, ....... ' Vfi 



Harrisburg Manufacturing Company 



Paxton and Steelton Flouring Mills Company JJ? 

Woven Wire Mattress Company, ' * 

Lykens Valley Coal Trade, .' ' 159 

Hummelstown Brownstone Company . . ' ' ]ll 

American Tube and Iron Company, [ ■' ' ]f! 

Paxton Furnaces, 60 

Shoe Industries, 160 

Biographical Sketches, . . 161 

165-1196 



I 






INDEX. 



Abereombie, Wyman E., 1051 

Adams, Richard 492 

Adams, Thomas, 538 

Adams, William J., 487 

Agnew, Samuel, M. D 361 

Aims-worth, Samuel, 194 

Albright, Mrs. Frances, 213 

Aldinger, Frederick B., 617 

Aldinger, John, 616 

Aldinger, William C. 616 

Alexander, Benjamin, 620 

Alexandra, Thomas, 1100 

Allemain, Henry 773, 816 

Allemam, John Christian, 446 

Alleman, John Sylvanus, . ..503, 446 

Allenian, John, 446 

Allemam, Michael, 816 

Allemam, Michael R.. 1018 

Alleman, Samuel, 446 

Allen, George 523 

Allen, Jonm M., 1143 

Allen. William F 1146 

Allison, Johm 85 

Alricks, Hamilton, 426 

Alricks, Hermanus 426 

Alricks, James 196 

Althouse, Reuben H., 636 

A llwine, John H., 929 

Allwine, Jomas 1 005 

Allwine, Joseph, 1005 

Altmaier. Peter A 585 

Alvatrd, Jacob, 1180 

Anderson, Rev. James, 260 

Anderson, Samuel J., 325 

App, Francis, 926 

Armoir. William Crawford 1193 

Armpriester. George W 538 

Arnold. Calvin M., M. D 399 

Arnte, Jacob 1130 

Attick. Damiel J., 294 

Attick, Damiel 1015 

Attick, Jacob A 1014 

Attick, Oliver 566 

Auchmuty, Robert. M. D 354 

Auchmuty, Robert 354 

Auchmutv, Dr. Robert, 49 

Aumgst. Johm 7S8 

Awl. Francis Asbuiry 258 

Awl, Jacob 174 

Awl. Jacob Michael 214 

Awl. John Wesley, 259 

Ayres, Johm., 185 

Ayres, Samuel, 171 

Ayres, William, 171 

Ayres, William, 17, 212 

Babb, Charles H 1033 

Bacaistow, Franklin P., 699 

Bacaistow, John, 699 

Bach, Henrv A., 615 

Bach, Tillman 615 

Bachmam, Samuel S 661 

Backenstoe. Clayton H 665, 458 

Ba.com. Daniel, 543 

n-aW nr,n.-io« T, .Tr 460 



Bailey, Charles Lukens 527 

Bailey, Edward, 420 

Bailey, Hamilton, 567 

Bailey, Joseph, 527 

Bailey, Gen. Joel 290 

Baker, Charles H, 820 

Baker, Charles P 1023 

Baker, Frederick, 470 

Baker, George W., D. D. S., . . . 393 

Baker, George W., 470 

Baker Henry S74 

Baker, Henry J., 729 

Baker, Jacob, 730 

Baker, Jacob, Sr., 878 

Baker. John J S62 

Baker, John M., 929 

Baker, Rev. Lei-oy Franklin, . . 280 

Baker, Matthias, G 578 

Baker, W. C, M. D., 376 

Baker. W. C, M. D 671 

Ball. Joseph 413, 407 

Ball. William, 407 

Balsbaugth, Christian Hervey, ..1152 

Balsbaugh, George 86 

Balsbaugh, George, 1035 

Balsbaugh, Henry, 821 

Balsbaugh. Hiram W., 681 

Balsbaugh, John 821 

Balsbaugh, John H., 681 

Balsbaugh. Peter 87 

Balsbaugh, Solomon 821 

Balsbaugh. Uriah 691 

Balsbaugh, Valentine S6 

Bander, Augustus, 822 

Bamnan, George, 577 

Barber, Spencer F., 1004 

Bare, Diller 678 

Barnes, Jeremiah S 536 

Rarnot. Johm J„ 1028 

Barnett, John 186 

Barringer. Jacob P 577 

Basehoire, Benjamin, 699 

Basehore. George 699 

Baiskin. George B., 526 

Raskin, Oliver P 1036 

Baskin. William 526 

Bamier, Frank J 1179 

Baum. Daniel 87 

Baum. Michael 770 

Baum. Michael S. 77) 

Bav. J. G. Mc 535 

Bayard, Edward 861 

Bayard. Henry M 860 

Bayard. James A 860 

Baynrd. Joseph S 861 

"Realoir. David, 11 04 

Bealor, Max. ...... .' 1104 

Beaird. Ammom W 769 

Beard. Charles F 844 

Beard. Robert 1089 

BeaTd. Samuel 769 

Beat.es. Edward K 772 

Beatty, George, 205 

Beatty. James 183 

Beaver, John L 974 



Beck, Julius Augustus 254 

Beck, David, 497 

Beck, David M., 497 

Beck, Johm, 640 

Becker, Henry, 531 

Behm, Jacob, 681 

Beimhower, Adam, 1035 

Beinhower, J. S., 1036 

Bell, David D 1149 

Bell, George H., 645 

Bell, John, 479 

Bell, Thornton A., 579 

Bell, Samuel M., 863, 877 

Bell, William, 214 

Bell, William, 852 

Bell, William A S49 

Bellman. Samuel 1140 

Bender, Hamilton, 967 

Bender, Jacob, 409 

Bender, Jacob M., 409 

Bender, William, 1083 

Bent, Luther Stedmam 253 

Bent. Winslow B 1028 

Bentley, George Rolland, 549 

Benton. Rev. Gilbert Liguori, . . 998 

Bergner, George 447 

Bergner, Charles Henry 447 

Bergstresser, Alexander W., . . 484 
Bergstresser, William J., .... 577 

Bergner, George, 338 

Bernheisel. Luther, 601 

Bernheisel. Peter, 408 

Bernheisel. Peter 40fi 

Berry. Robert, 
Best, Austin, . 
Best, Martin, . 
Bertram, Willi; 
Bicklev, John I . 
Bickley, Williai ' 

Bickley. Williar 

Bigelow, Lucius :■'< 521. 554 

Bishler, Dr. H. C 915 

Bitting. John 940 

Bixler. Cornelius 741 

Bixier, John 741 

Black, Alfred T 329 

Black. Andrew Krause, 249 

Black, Homer 475 

Black, John 655 

Black, Rev. Samuel 260 

Blair. William. M. D 388 

Blamning, William 1191 

Blessing, Absalom 693 

Blessing, Frank D 693 

Blough, Bertram F., 559 

Biough, Oyrus ' 559 

Blough, George 930 

Blough. Wilson R., 559 

Blust, Dr. .TosenhrJ^^ 313 

Blyer. r._b6rrE., . 7T7 524 

Blvler. Simon 903 

Boas, Daniel D .89. 477 

Boas, Frederick 207 

Boas. Col. Frederick Kunse,. 236 

Boas. Henry D., 482 

Boas, ■ jaeob, .^-<^.. 20'i 



INDEX. 



•as. William Dick, 227 

.diner, Edward, 818 

(■shore, David H., 1145 

• ' eshore, Thomas, 1 145 

gner, Riley 8S5 

11 Chas. S., 584y,, 5^3 

11, John W., 564 

liuii, Devi, 1149 

uubaugh, Aaron; 226 

.nibaugk, Abraham, 199 

mberger, John Cauffnian, . . 239 

■ mberger, Jacob M., 597 

mgardner, Jerome, 944 

imgardner, John, 706 

ml. S. Weidler, 772 

nawitz, Jonathan, 907 

ii.iwitz, Jonathan 740 

ii.nvitz, W. E., M. D... .755, 740 

■ .ok. David N., 930 

3 . oks, John, 764 

: oks, Jonas, 764 

ioser, Ephraim, 780 

ioser, Henry, 642 

■ inser, Henry, 780 

■ oser, Henry, 1033 

rland, John At, 773, 804 

■rland, William, 804 

' lowers, Abraham, 668 

ivors, Charles E., M. D., . . . . 803 

■wore, Edwin 565 

were, George Washington. .1059 

were, Jacob. 1035 

were. Martin H 384 

wers, Moses K., M. D., .... 384 

wman, Christian 592 

wman. Christian 966 

wman. Frank S 1055 

wman. John 592 

wman. John F 199 

wman, John F 49 

wman, John J 10K3 

wman, John K 595 

wman, Devi B 1055 

. wman, Samuel 592 

wman. Simon Sallade 1052 

winnn. Sumner S 1186. 917 

wman, William 966 

wman, William H, 916 

yd. Capt. Adam 183 

yer. David A 11 55 

y or. .Tosiah 1113 

yer, .Ta cob 1 034 

yer, Wesley 1130 

aekenridge. Alfred 464 

r.^kenridge. Dr. John 464 

and! Abraham L 661 

anrlt. f/evi 495 

andt, R. F ROR 

er-keniiiaker. Abrnm K Rfifl 

eekenmaker. P. Dilik 569 

enneman. Adam 532 

enneman, Henry 532 

' "'enneman. Jacob D 591 

pnneman. William H f>32 

essler. John S 721 

etz, Benjamin 48 

■ ice. Innis. M. D 352 

islitbill. D-ivid W 1147 

Brigntbill. Henderson P 680 

'• iffhthill. Jacob A., 457 

ightbill, Oscar K., 457 

ightbill. Samuel 707"- 

■iggs. John Hanna 236 

inser. F. C 771 

■inser, Jonas C 772 

•inser, Rev. S. H 762 

rinser. Snbnion-^1 770 

inser, Simon. . .TTV 771 

"inton. Onjch 543 

inton. F/arry A., 543 

own, George D., A.M.. M.D., 938 

own. G.me H 713 

own. James Morrison. M.D., 373 
•own, John. .-.^ /T>\-r 713 



Brown, John, 168 

Brown, Mercer, M. D., 361 

Brown, Rev. William B., ... 373 

Bro-win, Samuel S., 1150 

Brown, William, 167 

Brua, Peter 199 

Brubaker, Charles J., 329 

Brubaker, Daniel, 728 

Brubaker, George M 1095 

Brubaker. Henry, 329 

Brubaker, Jacob, 329 

Brubaker, Jacob, 91 

Brubaker, John, S8 

Brubaker, John R., 728 

Brubaker, Jonathan, 728 

Brubaker, Joseph, S8 

Brubaker, Seth, 662 

Buck, Elias B., 703 

Buck, Solomon J., 1144 

Buck, Solomon C, 1146 

Bucher, John Conrad, 217 

Bucher, John Jacob, 191 

Budd, William, 1189 

Budd, Capt. Richaird 1185, 917 

Buehler, George, 202 

Buehler, Henry, 202 

Buehler, Jacob 570 

Buehler, Martin H, 556 

Buehler, William, 231 

Buffington, Benjamin, 48 

Buffington, Cyrus F., 905 

Buffington, Daniel, 897 

Buffington, Henry Edwin,. 1158, 899 
Buffington, Isaiah T.....1106, 1097 

Buffington, Solomon, 1106 

Buffington, William, 906 

Buggy, Michael 1186 

Buggy, John P., 1186 

Buntz, Rev. Stephen, 916 

Burd, James, 173 

Burke, Michael 218 

•• Burkholder, Jacob, 632 

Burkholder, Josiah, 698 

Burkholder, Michael K., 693 

Burkholder, William, 631 

Burkhoder, William, Jr., 632 

Buser, H. Wells, 328 

Buser, Ira, 822 

Buser, Jacob, 328 

Buser, John K., 821 

Busot, Milton, 822 

Buser, Otis S., 822 

Buser, Otis S 497 

Butler, James, 562 

Butler, William H, . . . : 644 

Buttorff, Jonathan 649 

Buttorff, Harvey Y. 649 

Calder, A. Russell, 995 

Calder, Col. Howard L.,.512y„. 459 

Calder, James, 266 

Calder, William, 125, 245 

Calder, William, 208 

Calder, William James, 514 

Caley, William E 705 

Oaley, Winfield S., 705 

Cameron, Col. James, 225 

Cameron, James Donald 417 

Cameron, John 217 

Cameron, Gen. Simon 611, 219 

Cameron, William Brua, 430 

Campbell, Harry Huse, 995 

Carlile, Alexander W., 548 

Oarmany, Charles Augustus,. . 823 

Carter, William Justin, 461 

Cassel, August, 1155 

Cassel, Chretian, 1153 

Cassel, David 1151 

Cassel, David B., 671 

Cassel, Elias 1143 

Cassel, John B 1149 

Cassel, John W 930 

Cassel, Joseph, 787 

Cassel, Martin S 930 



Cassel, Michael H., 788 

Cassel, William, ' 708 

Cassel, Uriah, 931 

Catrell, William, '. 206 

Caum, Edward L., 502 

Caveny, Reuben, 320 

Caveny, Samuel Bradv, 320 

Challis, Jones J., SS3 

Chandler. George P., 509 

Ohamberlin, James 1 443 

Chandler, Jonathan 536 

Chandler, William G., 536 

Chester, Thomas Morris 256 

Christman, Chas. D., M. D., . . .1173 

Ohubb, Henry, 726 

Chubb, Samuel H., 726 

Clark, James, 500 

Clark, J. Nelson, M. D...557, 397 

Clark, William, 93 

Clark, William, 93 

Clay, Daniel W., 950 

Clemens, Peter H., 626 

Clemens, Reuben, 952 

Clemson, Amos, 511 

Clemson, Lloyd Colder 511 

Clemson, L. W., 866 

Clokey. Joseph 139 

Clyde, John Joseph 337 

Coble, Abraham B., 686 

Coble, Amos G., 659 

Coble, Aaron C, M. D 847, 719 

Coble, Andrew '. 775 

Coble, Isaac H., 822 

Coble, Jacob, 822 

Cochran, George, 95 

Cochran, John, 94 

Cochran, John 95 

Cochran, William 205 

Cocklin, Dr. C. C, 389 

Cocklin, E. H, 389 

Cocklin. Jacob 389 

Coder. John G 411 

Coder, Simon, 411 

Oof rod, William R., 878 

Coleman, Charles, 898 

Coleman. John C 897 

Compton, Samuel R., 582 

Oonnely, James, 772 

Conrad, Jacob, 870 

Cook, I. Elmer, M. D., 371 

Cook, Thomas E 371 

Cooper, Adam 49 

Cooper, Adam 1117 

Cooper, Alford L., 628 

Cooper. William, 1117 

Coover, Eli H., M. D 395. 365 

Coover, Frederick Welty 379 

Coover, Dr. H. Ross 386 

Coover, Joseph Henry, M. D.,. 368 

Coover, Jacob 365 

Corbett. Joseph F 875 

Cornman, Wilson S., 611, 610 

Cordes, Henry 1078, 737 

Cotterel, John W 405 

rottercl, John 4Q5 

Couffer, Samuel 827, 978 

Cowden, Frederick H., 541 

Cowden. James, 178 

Oowden. Col. James 542 

Cowden, John Wallace 238 

Cowden. Matthew 542 

Cowden, Matthew B 503. 327 

Oowden. William Kerr, 246 

Cox. John Bowers, 239 

Cox. Col. Cornelius, 185 

Cox, D. W., 480 

Cox, John 185 

Craig, L. P., 855 

Crain. Richard Moore, 203 

Crane. Irvin J., 499 

Crawford, James, 97 

Crawford. Robert 96 

Cratzer. Frank B 732 

Crist, Dr. Josiah B., 691 






Crouch, Edward, 193 

Crouch, James, . 174 

Cryder, Moses G 7bb 

Crook, Gabriel, gl7 

Crook, William, . . . . . 317 

Crook, Capt. William H., 317 

Croll. Ahuer, oil 

Croll, Edward oil 

Croll, George L., oil 

Croll, John oil 

Croll, William A., 811 

Oram, Alfred, 9b < 

Cram, Amos, 781 

Crum, Daniel, 1146 

Crum, David 1144 

Crum, Edward L 502 

Cram, Edward M., 782 

Crum, Sarah Jane, <9S 

Outchall, Richard, . . . -. obi 

Gulp, John F„ M. D., . 978 

Gambler. J. H., 719, 730 

Curry, John B., 6(5 

Cumbler, William, <ou 

Dagnell, John Richard, 948 

Daniels, Sanders 6-7 

Daniel. Uriah H., 898 

Dare, James M., 1144 

Dasher, Hiram D., old 

Dasher, Peter, old 

Daugberty, Daniel, gob 

Daugherty, Hamlet 50b 

Davies. Newton H 417 

■.Davidson. John H., 471 

Davidson, William W 471 

Davis, Chas. C 35, 1192 

Davis. Charles S., 1024 

Day, William Howard 308 

Day, Charles W. 1059 

■ro-.iili.am 601 

SOS 



INDEX. 

Downey. John, 194 

Downs, John B 994 

Dougherty, Philip, 229 

Drake, Henry, 510 

Dressel, Christ A., 608 

Dubendorf , Samuel D., 913 

D-uey, Sim-on, 311 

Duff, Edmund 368 

Duff. William L., M. D., 368 

Duff, Jonathan, 368 

Duncan, Dauphin L., 622 

Duncan, Joseph, 1161, 899 

Duncan, William, 629, 621 

Double, J. A., 983 

Dunkel, Samuel F 559 

Earle, Thomas 1027 

Early, Aaron Daniel Seth, .... 826 

Early, Christian, 700 

Early, George 700 

Early, John 285 

Early, Israel 700 

Early, Thomas 285 

Early, William 286 

Early, Zimmerman 190 

Earnest, Franklin C 1037 

Earnest, Simon F., M. D., 931 

Ebersole, John P., 775 

Ebersole. Levi, 931 

Eberie. William F., 554 

Ebv, Christian 689 

Eby, Ephraim C, 238 

Ebv, Henry B., - 662 

Ebv, Michael 689 

Ebv, Michael 688 

Eby, Hon. Maurice C. 321 

Eby, Jacob Rupley 238 

Edwards, Oliver, 248 

Bgle, Casper, 173 

Egle, William Henry 161, 338 

Egle. Valentine 1 87 

fM^qr y 595 

^05 



DeHaven, „ — 

DeHaven. Nathan, 

Deibler, Daniel J„ 91b 

Deibler, George 904 

Deibler, George A 91b 

Deibler. John W„ 904 

Deiss. William • 399 

Demming. Ool. Henry C.,- . . . ol4 

Demmy. David j-141 

Demy, Simon S., 7b5 

Demy, John, ' b £ 

Denison, George R., org 

Derr. Anthony 49S 

Deshong, James B., . . .. 405 

Deshong. Rev. John W 405 

Defter. David F 919 

Detweiler, John Shelly,.....- -50 

Detweiler, Meade D 485, 451 

Detweiler. Samuel 451 

DeVenney. J. C, M. D., 387 

DeWalt. Ferdinand, 879 

DeWitt.Dr. William Radcliffe, 358 
DeWitt. William Radcliffe,... 262 

DeYoe. Rev. Luther 2S5 

Dickinson, Bayard T 3036 

Diehln, Henry, 769 

T>iffenderfer. Jonah G 992 

Dill, Irvin W., 567 

Dill, Harry A., 585 

Dimler. Philip, 1004 

-u Ditty, Henry 732 

r,">ittv, Joseph Franklin 1057 

jfiitty, Joshua, 732 

.-J>ock, George 364 

iVek. WilHam, 422 

r%rnbeim, Prof. Henry G 1096 

D^ornheim, Rudolph H 1096 

Djfegfhlerty, John W 993 

1 Jiougherty, Dennis, . . -<"J 



XI 

Erb, Peter, 739 

Erb, Will C, 690 

Ernest, Daniel, 1109 

Ernest, George, 1109 

Eshlemam, Abraham, 815 

Eshenaur, H. G„ 985 

Eshenower, Jacob J., -^ .1037 

Eshlemam, John, 773. 815 

Espenshade, Christian, 988 

Espy, William, 1002 

Etter, Abram Land-is, 799 

Btter, Benjamin F., 218 

Etter, Calvin 633 

Etter, Rev. David, 713 

Etter, David K., 69S 

Etter, Henry H., 633 

Etzweiler, Daniel, 49 

Etzweiler, Daniel 760 

Etzweiler, George 1139 

Etzweiler, Jacob F 760 

Etzweiler, Jerome, 1069 

Etzweiler. John D 1069 

Etzweiler, Michael, 760 

Etzweiler. Samuel 1139 

Etzweiler, William H, 760 

Evans, Daniel W 1189 

Ewing, Rev. James, 332 

Fackler. Adam. 1150 

Fackler. Ezra 653 

Fager Charles Buffiiigton.M.D., 370 

Fager, Christian M., M. D 403 

Fager, John 194 

Fager, John Jacob, ... , 194 

Fager, John Henry 194 

Fager. John Henry, M. D 356 

Fager. John H, M. D 379 

Fahnestock, Adam K 105 

Fahnestock, Conrad 10^ 

Fahnestock, Dredrick 99 

Fahnestock. Obert 102 

Fahnestock. W. E 600 

En.nsler. Milton A 928 

- ■ Hot; 657 



Winer, .. 

Elder, Matthew B 

"Elder, Robert, 182 

Elder, Robert, 169 

Elder, Robert HIS 

Elder. Thomas 191 

Ellenherger. J. Wesley M. D., . 381 

Ellmaker, Frank 516 

Enders. Amos E 642 

Enders, Philip Christian, 98 

Enders. Cornelius, 759 

Enele, Daniel 823 

Enders, Charles W., 1114 

Enders, Edward A 525 

Enders, George W. D 737, 735 

Enders, George W„ 742 

Enters, Henry 751 

Enders. Isaac F., 748 

Enders. I. T., 636 

Enders. John, 1131 

Enders, John J43 

Enders, John Conrad 743 

Enders. L. J.. M. D., 11.82, 1007 

Enders. Philip. 735 

Enders, Philip C 734 

Enders. Samuel 7F >" 

Etanjey, George W.. Jr 1032 

Ensino-er. F. W 584 

Ensininger. John T.: 489 

Ensminger. Philip 489 

Ensinger, Samuel D 584 

Enterline. Solomon H 919 

Epler. John 767 

Epler. Jacob R 767 

Enler. Peter 767 

Eppley, Daniel 238 

Erb, John, 823 



Feidt. Jiavni «... 

Feidt, George, 

Feidt. Simon 

Feidt, George 

Feltv. John S 

Felty, John S 

Felty, John Solomon 

Felty, John Solomon Jr... .71 

Feltv, Luther D 

Felty. Philin D... 

Fencil. Nathaniel S '• -lCw8 

Ferree, George Washington,. .. 8«« 

Ferree. Frank P "»» 

Eerriday. A. Keener ■ ■ ■ ■ ™1 

Fertig, Elias 861, 863 

Fertig. John K 879 

Fertig. John O %™' 

Fetterhoff. Glnren.ee J&rf 

Fetterhoff. Frederick log 

Fetterhoff. Philip 753 

Fetterhoff. William . 879 

FiiUdbv. Gov. William .53. 19r, 

Fink. Henry 827. Wl( 

Finney. Isaac S 256 

Fish. Benjamin. ..... . . . ■ ■• ■ • 4,il 

Fisher, Charles Frederick Wm. 999 

- Fisher, Emory A., 579 

Fisher, George ■ ' ;J4 

Fisher. Henry 5< •* 

Fishw. John G g_4 

Fisher, John L *£g 

Fisher, Wesley, . . J gj™ 

Fisher: W«iam, ./ 823 

Fisher, W!.Jraffi7--i— •'«1L 



sher, William H., 520 

tting, John, 748 

ttiug, William H 748 

itzgerald, James R., 587 

itzgerald, Samuel W., 587 

itzpatrick, W. Righter 549 

leming, David, 107, 428 

leming, David Jr., 551 

lemiug, George R., 448 

lemiug, James, 232 

lr.'tcher, Joseph A., 082 

leming, Samuel 18S 

leming, Samuel W., 573 

[leming, Robert, 187 

leming, Robert Jackson 227 

lowers, George L., 685 

lowers, Thomas, 1000 

ochit, John, 784 

'oerster, George, 641 

oltz, Christian M., 663 

'oltz, John B., 402 

oltz, J. E., 663 

'oltz, John E., 766 

'oltz, J. H., 775 

[oltz, William, . : 402 

Forney, Charles M 404 

Journey, Christian Harvey,. .. . 572 
'orney, Rev. Christian Henry,. 277 

'orney, Clayton C, 572 

' 'orney, Henry J., 323. 537 

forney, John, 1118 

forney, Jacob H., 1091 

. 'orney, J. C, 287. 572 

'orney, Wien, 341, 343 

forney, John Wilson 572 

forSter, John 203 

F ouster, John Montgomery,... 213 

'orster, Thomas, . 189 

fortenbaughi Abraham, 731 

fortenbaugh, Andrew, 731 

fortenbaugh, Peter, 731 

fortmey, Sylvester T., 641 

f osnaught, John R 501 

fox, John, 106 

Vox, John 204 

fox, John E., 467. 457 

fox, John, E . J.09 

if ox, Milton, .... 942 

Fox, Thom°.-.. «.. M. D 674 

For-; Tfilliam L., 787 

» ' Sf William R., 692 

.g> & - y, Jacob A., 555 

h •f'.e, Lemuel Oliver 471 

Fraim, Benjamin, 653 

Fr'aim, Henry S 653 

Fraim, Jeremiah S 653 

Fraley, Henry, 586 

Frank, Andrew P., 753 

Frank, Charles 571 

Frank, David, 749 

Frank, George W., 749 

Frai.k, James 964 

Frank, John mo 

Frank, Henry, 1063 

Frank, William D. 1110 

Frantz, Henry, S58 

Frantz. Michael A., 1038 

Freek, Mathias, 48 

Freck, Newton C 1054 

Free, John W., 939 

Freeland, George W. P., 1093 

Fritchey, John A., M. D., 382 

Fritcbey. John F., 382 

Froehlich, John, 603 

Funk, David S.. M. D 377, 379 

Funk, Michael, 379 

r 

waistwhite. Joseph 1142 

Gallagher, Michael 1031 

Gardner, Adam Henry, 991 

Garman., Charles R .,. . 946 

1 Garman, George B... . ,. .//'... 946 
iGarmaD, Isaae^-^ . .-*.... /. ... 868 



INDEX. 

Gannain, John, 967 

Garman, Jonas, 1165 

Garman, Peter, 1165 

Garverick, James W 987 

Garner, Abraham, 472 

Garner, John E 472 

Garver, Christian, , 776 

Garver, C. L., 776 

Garver, Joseph L., 776 

Gasfcrock, Barnhard 1154 

Gastrock, Barthol, 597 

Gastrock, William, 600 

Gastrock, William M., \ 597 

Cause, Lewis H., 246 

Gayman, Jacob, ,\\ 849 

Gayman, John P ' §49 

Geary, Gov. John White. . . .'53 241 

Geary, Richard, 241 

Geddes, James, \\ xio 

Geddes, Robert, ' " hq 

Geddes, William, .[ no 

Geiger, Bernard m 

Geiger, Christian, .' 869 

Geisel, Henry 549 

Geiger, Joseph, m 

Geety, William Wallace, . ..'. 254 

Gerberick. Andrew T., 871 

Gerdes, Henry, ' 1017 

Gerhiard, Rev. Isaac, . . . 739 

Gerhard, Jerome Z 372 

Gerberich, Daniel, ' 707 

Gerlack, Frank G. 654 

Gerlack, John M., 688 

German, Emanuel S., 327 

German, John W., 327 

Gernert, Henry, 706 

Gernert, John, 706 

George, William J 971, 34s 

Geyer, Michael, ' 776 

Gilbert, Rev. David McC, . . 275 

Gilbert, Frederick R 1090, 755 

Gilbert, Isaac, 732 

Gilbert, Jacob, 733 

Gilbert, Samuel E., 1091 

Gilmore, James A., .... ..." 531 

Gilmore. -T^h.„., 531 

^ii.^rich, Cyrus 682 

Gingrich, Edwin G., 685 

Gingrich, Jacob, 777 

Gipe, Jeremiah E., 704 

Gipe, Jeremiah E., \ 704 

Gipe, Peter, 704 

Gise, Joseph D., .[ 8S6 

Gist, John L., gsi 

Gish, John R., [ ,,[ gsi 

Goldsmith, Joseph, 492 

Gorgas, George A .' .405 

Gorgas, Hon. William R 375 

Gorgas, William L 419 

Gorgas, Solomon R., M. D., . 375 

Good, Christian, Jr., 824 

Good, Christian, Sr 824 

Good, Jacob 993 

Good, George 642 

Good, John, 957 

Good, Martin, \ 824 

Goodman, Benedict 551 

Goodman. Simon 551 

Gough, Henry W., 493 

Gould. George W 643 

Goss, Jacob, 656 

Goss, Jacob, Jr., 657 

Goss, Martin 786 

Gross, Abraham 206 

Gross, Daniel Wiestling 401 

Gross Edward Z '. 401 

Gross, Joshua W 571 

Grove, George H., 411 

Grove, John 942 

Grove, John Z 411 

Grove, Samuel 785 

Glover, John W 600 

Graber, Leon K., M. D 385 

Graham, Robert 591 



Graupner, Robert H, 609 

Graydon, Mrs. Rachel, '. 167 

Graydon, William igs 

Greenawalt, Charles F., . . . " 944 

Greenawalt, Jacob ' 300 

Greenawalt, Jeremiah K 312 

Greenawalt, Jacob, 310 

Greenawalt, John Philip, . . " ' 300 
Greenawalt, Philip B., . . . 880 

Greenawalt Philip Lorentz, . '. 300 
Greenawalt,Maj. Theo. D., 71, 300 

Gregory, Gen. Edgar M 474 

Gregory, Frank H., 474 

Green, Innis, ' 201 

Green, Timothy, 177 

Green, Robert, 177 

Gross, Henry S., \ ^021 

Grove, John W 1039 

Grubb, Benjamin, . 663 

Grubb, Joseph G., 664 

Gruber, Peter, Jr., ' 658 

Gruber, Peter, sr ] 658 

Grubb, Henry A., 891 

Grunden, Martin H., ." .1039 

Haas, James A 390 

age, Homner, 224 

Haiin, George W., 1190 

Hain, George, .'.'.'.'.' 459 

Ham, Joseph 730 

Hain, William M., \ 459 

Bain, Samuel, 729 

Haldeman, Donald C, .....' \ '. 462 

Haldeman, Jacob, 172 

Haldeman, Jacob M., 172 

Haldeman, John, '. 172 

Hall, Louis William, 435 

Hall, Samuel S 322 

Hamilton. Adam Boyd... 935. 335 
Hamlin, Benjamin B., Jr., .... 402 

Hamlin, Rev. Benjamin, 402 

Hamilton, Hugh 17, 207 

Hamilton, John S., ........'. 410 

Hamilton. Jofcoi,. .' 184 

"Clinton, Thomas Allen 239 

Hamilton, Thomas H, 415 

Hammelbaugh, D. Daniel, . . ' 472 

Hammelbaugh, Philip 472 

Hammond, John Wesley, M.D., 362 

Hammond. William B., .' 466 

Hanua, Edward C, .1180 

Hanna, Gen. John, 84 

Hanna, Gen. John Andre 189 

Hanshue, Elmer E 1005 

Hanshue, David 933 

Hanshue, Jeremiah, 1006 

H'amshaw, Charles E [ 483 

Hanshaw, Henry 532 

Hanshue, John P., 932 

Hargest, Jefferson S 960 

Hargest John James 960 

Hargest. Thomas S., . . 440^, 440 

Harper. Cornelius, ". 724 

Harris, David, 81 

Harris, David, 82 

Harris, Esther 78 

Harris, Elizabeth .' 78 

Harris, George Washington, . . 83 

Harris, James, of Derry 114 

Harris, John 24.77 

Harris. James, of Derry il4 

Harris. John, . . . _ 79 

Harvie, John C, 560 

Hartman, Henry .1119 

Hartman. Paul A, M. D... . . . 374 

Harris, Robert, of Derry, .... 113 

Harris, Robert 17, 19a 

Harris, Robert, .' 85 

Harris, Samuel H, 63% 

Harris, Samuel, . 83 

Harris, William Augustus, ... 8,9 
Harris, William Augustus.... J97 
Harris, William, of Derry. . .. Lot, 
Harris, George Washington, . . 21$ 

11 






MacQueen, James M., 412 

MaJer, Daniel E., 959 

Maeyer, David, 5g2 

Maginnis, James 423 

Moloney, Thomas Francis, . . . 259 
Manning-, Charles J., M. D.,.. 388 
Marcet, Mrs. Dr. Alexander, . . 172 
Mark, Adam Ellenberger, . . . . . 1086 

Marks, Herman, 596 

Markley, George B., 367 

Markley, George H., M. D., . . 367 

Marsh, Fred. H 554 

Marshall, John L., 581 

Marshall, John S 581 

Martin, Jeremiah, 789 

Martin, Joseph E., 778 

Marzolf, George 948 

Mather, Edmund, 533 

Matheson, George, 833 

Mathias, John, 768 

Mathias, Peter, ' 768 

Matter, Balthaser, ' 903 

Matter, Daniel D., '. .1122 

Matter, Michael, 1122 

Mattis, Aaron, \ 727 

Mattis, Ab'raham, .... 727 

Mattis, Charles T., 1112 

Mattis, Isaac, 1112 

Matzinger, Frank H., " ' 969 

Mauk, Charles H., 341 65' 

Mia.uk, Samuel T 995 

Maulfair, Dr. Harvey E., . . . . 933 

Maurer. Daniel, 318 

Maurer, Daniel C., " 318 

May, John K., ' 633 

McAlaraey, M. Wilson..'.' 179, 347 

McAlister, James 387 

McAlister J B M. D.,.. 539, 387 

McCaleb, John D., 519 

McCaleb, William B \ 518 

MeCammon, James .' 353 

McCammon. John, . . . ooi 

McCaa-rell S. J. M 1133, 439 

McCarty, Jesse 884 

McClintock, Charles W., . v 519 
McClintock, Dr. Joseph H., . . . 512 
McClure, Charles B., M. D., . . 902 

McClure, Jonathan, 421 

McClure, Richard, " " 133 

McConkey, Charles B., . . 460 

McConkey, Elbridge 460 

MeCord, Joseph, 933 

Mc-Cormdck, Henry, ... . . . . . 254 

McCorm'ick, James 224 

McCormick, James 255 

McCready, Duncar 352 

McCreary, Elijah, 812 

McCreary, Johu, 812 

McCreath, Andrew S., 259 

McCreery. George J 602 

McDaniel. Dr. Henry M.,. . . 833 

McEntee, Peier J 1021 

McEntee, Thomas T., 994 

McPadden, John E., 654 

McFadden, Thomas F. ....... 654 

MeFadden. William C.,.. "' 500 

McFarland, Cfeorge G '. 591 

McGamn, Capt. Jot*. IC, 755 749 

McGann, Edward ' 749 

JTcGinnes, Lemuel E... . ' c;S1 
VcGowan, Hiram, M. D., ' ' 372^ 
McGovern, Rev. T.,D. D., 269 96S 
Mellhenny, Samuel, . ' 947 

M ?Kee, Edward G. . 581 

M-Kee, Harry D "' 872- 

MjcKee, James T., . . . . 531 

"UcKelvey, Jacob J.-,. . . \ \ \ \ \ \ 412 

XcKelvy, Jacob, \\\ 412 

IcKillips, Alexander, ......[ 573 

,'cKinney, Mordecai, 423 

T eLaughlin, Alexander. .. 1135 

i,?Laughlin, James T. W 538 

i-Linn, Ezra 619 

ifclimn, Thomas, 619 

cNair. Alvin 834 



INDEX. 



McNamara, Michael, 1190 

McPherson, John Bayard, .... 441 

Meals, Ezra S., M. D 374 

Meals, Samuel, 374 

Meals, Theodore S 646 

Meashey, Peter, 70S 

Meek, Charles S., 574 

Meckley, Jacob, 964 

Meckley, Samuel Joseph 946 

Meetch, John, 91 

Meily, George W 571 

Melick, John P., 521, 329 

Meliek, Rev. J. A., 329 

Melick, Rev. Justus A., 266 

Mellin, Dustin Fletcher, 729 

Mellin, Ezra, 729 

Mellin, John, 729 

Messersmith, Edward, 1123 

Messner, Jacob, 1122 

Meltzger, Adam. 701, 763 

Metzger, David, 763 

Metzger, Henry 763 

Metzger, Jacob, 763 

Meyer, Robert L., 610 

Meyers, Benjamin, 867 

Meyers, Hon. B. F 179, 344 

Meyers, John, Jr 1045 

Meyers, William K., . .". 460 

Middleton, Wm. John, M. D., . . 985 

Middleton, Willliam, 330 

Middleton, William H., 330 

Milleisen, G. Frank, 482 

Millhouse, Augustus S., 1019 

Miller, Aaron, 747 

Miller, Abraham C, 578 

Miller, Charles A 935, 326 

Miller, Charle R., M. D 1045 

Miller, Clayton C, M. D.,.719, 718 

Miller, Daniel, 1103 

Miller, Daniel Newton, 1087 

Miller, David R., 410 

Miller, David, Sr., 945 

Miller, D. W 1022 

Miller, Edmund J., 653 

Miller, Francis X., 326 

Miller, Hon. Jesse, 430 

Miller, Isaac 914 

Miller, Jacob, 410 

Miller, Jacob F., 1141 

Miller, James li04 

Miller, James, 744 

Miller, John, 793 

Miller, John, \ 747 

Miller, John C, ' 902 

Miller, John E 768 

Miller, John, . 1104 

Miller, John Edmund . . . 500 

Miller, John Patterson, 852 

Miller, Jonathan, 922 

Miller, Joseph, ....'. 744 

Miller, Michael, 747 

Miller, Michael H., " ' 753 

Miller, Major J. Frank, ' 914 

Miller, Nathaniel, 1103, 827 

Miller, Peter, 718 

Miller. Samuel, ' ' ' .XVTX 

Miller, Samuel A...... ' 793 

Miller, William H., .' ' 943 

Miller, Samuel B., 71s 

Miller. William Henry, ... 430 

Jffiiler. William F., 634 

Milliken, Thomas, 848 

MilnoT, George W 599 

Minniek, Michael E., . 969 

Minsker, Moses, .' .' 885 

Mish, George, S00 

Mish, George F., M. D., ..' 791, 800 

Missemer, J. R., 976 

Mitchell, Andrew ] 187 

Mitchell, Andrew Dinsmore. .." 262 
Mitchell, Ehrman B., ...... .444 

Mitchell, Joseph, '.'.'.'.' 134 

Mitchell, William \ 443 

Moeslein, Edward, 5*5 

Monroe. O. "R. . 1A30 



XV 

Montgomery, Joseph 17R 

Montgomery, Mrs. Rachel 189 

Moody, Washington, ' "' qrT 

Moody, William H.. qVc 

Moore, Austin A., . '. %?£ 

Moore, James A. . . £V? 

Moore. W. Brooke, ..." 2ft 

Moorehead, Gen. James K.',' ' ' 930 
Moorehouse, George H., ' £nq 

Morris, Milton K.T . . . ' '--' qqq 

Morrow, John C, . oVq 

Mossop Isaac, ......' i.'!" "1173 

Mountz. Adam \\' A % 

Mountz, Leonard, . . 1 ?IS 

Mowry, Charles 3.04 

Mowry, Morgan A '. ro5 

Moyer, Benjamin F., . 790 

Moyer. Elkanah D. . . . 104S 

Moyer, John, . ^S 

Moyer, John H., . r,q 

Moyer, Rudolph, . . .' ,?$| 

Moyer Rev. C. C i"4 

Muench. Isaac S., . . . X hS 

Muench, Rev.Charles Edward 50 

Muench Robert L aid ' J2 

Muller, John George, . ?71 - 

Mumma, Christian. . 909 

Mumma, Christ Nissley. '. '. " ' ' mil 
Mumma, Edward L, 009 

Mumma. Ellis Lewis, .'."179 3^0 
Mumma, Hon. David, . . 433 

Mumma, Isaac. . . SoS 

Mumma, Isaiah .' i?35 

Mumma, John, . . 1 1 17 

Mumma, Joseph J.. . £i 7 

Mumma, Martin N., Q39 

Murray, James '17J 

Murray, John kkn 

Murray, John ?rq 

Murray, John. ... f!2 

Murray. Lindlev, ... I01 

Murray. Patrick iSfi 

Murray. Samuel ' fiOfi 

Musser, Andrew J.. ' §?q 

Musser. Frauk B 
Musser, John S., . . 
Myers. Charles, .... 
Myers, J. R., 

Nace, Enoch. . . n, 

Nace. Henrv. .. 794 

Nace, John E., . 7J7 

Nace, William Benjamin',';.".: 717 
Nagle, Christian M., . . hkn 

Nagle, Emanuel, .... k£> 

Nagle, John H., .... 545 

Nauss, Christian " ' Kor, 

Naylor, Dr. Wilson E.,. .'.'.' ' ' ' 1124 

JNead. Benjamin 44] 

Aead. Benj. Matthias, . . 575'. 441 

Neagley, Jacob 950 

Neagley, John ' ~k n 

Neely. J. M .'.'.'.'.'.' 620 

Nell. Levi H 1046 

Nelson, Arthur F .'^» 

Neron, D. W '. . .'.'.'. .'V 

Newbecker. John J.. . .'.'.'l'(J 
Newcomer. Samuel S., . . 

Newhard, Irvin C 

Newhard. James D 

Ney, Joel '. '. 855 

Nicholas, Jacob M., 400 

Nicholas. John B., 400 

Nissley, Christian, .'_ 660 

Nissley, Frank 1046 

Nissley. Harmon L., 447 

Nissley. Isaac L., 970 

Nissley, Isaac O ^791, 799 

Nisley, Jacob .1017 

Nissley. Jacob 778 

Nissley, Jacob, ...'. 135 

JNissky, Jacffb 443 

Nisslpy, J-irirj C ' 449 448 

Nissley. John H.. ~. tri 



ssley, John J 669 

ssley, John L 669 

ssley, Joseph, tJE° 

. ssley, Martin F b'g 

ssley, Martin a, 9b9 

ssley, Samuel B., *±< 

sley, Samuel, . lOlf 

Met, Newton E., • • • • ■ && 

rris. Alex. Wilson, . . 49«4 fb2 
m^niaeher, Ambrose W.,... <J98 

memaeher, John gJ» 

re, Daniel Henry, '»* 



I Conner, Mortimer, M. D., . . 
■ jelsby, Jonah, 

jelsby, Joseph J., ■■■■■ 

msted, Marlin E. ; . . . 458y 2 , 

ewine, George W., • • • • ■ ■ ■ • 

n. D. A., 1'9, 

it, John G., 

rth, Charles 

rth, Christian Henry, 

rth, Edward Laurence 

i-ih, Edw. Laurence, M. D.,. 

rth, Fred J., 

rth, Henry, 

rth, Henry C, ........ 

i-th. Henry L., M. D., ...3o9, 

tt, Leander N., 

ves, Henry F., 

yler, J. H., 



366 

488 
488 
452 
941 
346 
347 
819 
200 
370 
363 
638 
S19 
477 
370 
297 
4S2 
390 



age, S. S., IMS 

ainter, David, • ■ '»* 

ainter, Ebenezer Greenough, 331 

ainter, Jacob, •' • | (0 

ainter, John ggj 

ainter, Thomas, 661 

aimer, Lafayette, o4U 

ark, George, . . ggb 

ark, J. Walter, M. D., 3S0 

I arke, Capt. Benjamin, ■••■■• 715 
artheinore, E. Winfield Scott, 465 

atterson, John D. 319 

attnn, J . Hervey, go- 

atton, John, §E« 

■ leacoek, James 66i 

•earson, Judge J. J., • 4-o 



earson, William, 444 

I 'ease, Charles E., M. D., 

'eck, Christian 

! 'eck, Levi N., 

'eters, Abraham, 

I 'eters, Benjamin G. 

Peters, D. Augustus, .... 

'eters, Benjamin Snyder, 

'eters. Benjamin Snyder, 

>tfers, Jacob M., M. D., 



SOS 
. 779 
. 779 
. 955 
. 469 
. 997 
. 835 
.1047 

976 



•eters, Simon C ly*' 

r\ters, Thomas Sawyer, .... 4bW 

Pfineger, Bev. O. E 11-4 

?f or.tz, Dr. George I., 40b 

>fou.z, William C, 400 

>fuM, Bev. John George, 2<b 

"hillipv Louis 482 

>itcaini, Hugh, M. D., 60$ 

nambe.-k, J. H. W.,. ... - • • ■ • -1078 
'lunket, William H., M. D.. . . 352 
Poffenberger, Albert T.,. §63, 851 
Poffenberger, Leonard, . . 8o0, bbd 
Poffenberger. T.M.L., D.D.S., 394 

Poole, Washington I • • - 5»0 

Porter. Gov. David B., . . 53, 210 
Porter, George W., M. D., ... 3bb 

Potter, Ira G, 494 

Potteiger. Jacob, °o.i 

Potter, Levi 494 

Pro well. Dr. William B., 1047 

Pugh, A. Judson 543 

Pugh, William v. 543 



Quickel, Henry F., 



599 



INDEX. 

Bahe, Henry J., 506 

Bahter. Chas. A., M. D., . 377, 369 

Bahter, Christian, 369 

Baker, Dr. William, 923 

Bambler, Henry B., 386 

Bambler, Leonard C 808 

Bambler, Michael Backenstoe, 807 

Bambler, Bobert A., M. D., 386 

Bamsey. Thomas, 206 

Bapp, W. H 934 

Bauch, Bernard, '12 

Bauch, James M., 1150 

Bauch, John N 1140 

Ranch. Samuel J., 1154 

Eawn, Charles C, 940 

Rawn, Charles Coatesworth, . .. 427 

Raysor, John, 955 

Read, Capt. Adam, 169 

Ream. Abraham, 970 

Redmond, Andrew 56_i_ 

Redmond, Thomas H, 56 < 

Reed, Dr. J. J., . . , 923 

Reed, Elijah, '■ '95 

Reed, George Engard, 6^2 

Reed, George W., 620 

Beed, John B., 101o 

Beed, Philip, 623 

Beed, Beuben S., 506 

Beed, Bobert, i 50b 

Beed, Bobert L <9o 

Beed, Samuel B., 620 

Beed, WiUiam H, 687 

Beel, Samuel 560 

Behrer, Henry L., »db 

Behrer, Thomas Jefferson, .... 219 

Beichert, David J., 946 

Beichert, Henry 973 

Beider, Abraham H., . . 791, 80o 

Beider, Jacob S., £5 

Eeiff. Jacob L ''9 

Beigle, Andrew 48 

Beily, Capt. John "04 

Beily, George Wolf, M. D.,. . .. 3b' 

Belly, John - ■ • • 18° 

Reily, John A., 701, 303 

Reilv, John W 521, 938 

Reily, Luther, M. D., ^55 

Beimert, Hiram, ' J| 

Beinick, Thomas 1"° 

Benninger, Martin 3.L> 

Rettinger. Charles 1191 

Bewalt. Dr. J. W., 835 

Eexroth, G. William, : 562 

Beynders. J. V. W., 994 

Rhoads, Daniel, g4 1 

Rhoads, James M oil 

Richardson, John T., 065 

Ricker, George T 1049 

Ricker, Uriah '9o 

Rickert, Hartman, *J 

Riokert. John 10»- 

Bider, John, °S-. 

Eider, Michael, '£« 

Biegel, Jacob, jbUd 

Biegel, Samuel, IbUd 

Biegle, Benjamin, 10'* 

Biegle. Harrison J* 

Rife, .T. N ' 'g 

Rine'ard. Samuel W., 949 

Ringlan'd, Dr. John, LlX-eSS' 

Ringland, John. . . .^^srr. . <MS 

Rinkenbach. Edward L o»» 

Ritchie, Josiah . . ... . - • o(b 

Ritchie, Melancthon M., M. D., 3ib 

Ritzman. Andrew, .' 1084 

Ritzman, A. S °Jb 

Ritzman, A. S 8Jb 

Roan. Rev, John £W 

Roberts, Alexander, H........ 5oO 

Roberts, Alexander, St., . 30o, 307 
Roberts. Col. John,. ......... 307 

Boberts, Edmund Wilson. M.D., rfob 
Boberts, George, 519 



Boberts, James W., - 554 

Robinson, Philip, 169 

Eobinson, Thomas Hastings, . . 267 

Boekafellar, John M., 470 

RockafeUar, Thomas B., 4<0 

Eoe, Edward J 404 

Roe, Dr. Francis M., 404 

Roniberger, Bengohan, 910 

Romberger, Boltzer, 910 

Bomberger, B. W 1108 

Romberger, Cyrus, 1125 

Romberger, Daniel, 1101 

Romberger, Edward, 1126 

Romberger, G. D., 898 

Romberger, Henry A., 905 

Romberger, Howard H., 901 

Romberger, Joseph P., 903 

Romberger, John A., . . . .112S 

Romberger, Samuel B.,...H01, 91' 

Boop, John, 82t 

Eoop, John S., 820 

Eose, Harvey J., «!•> 

Eose, William John olg 

Boss, Harry C, 603 

Boshoe, John William 591 

Boss, Joseph, . . . 2bd 

Boss, Bobert James 2dl 

Boumf'ort, Augustus L 644 

Boumfort, Charles E., 644 

Bow, Jacob l°° 

Bow, Jonas, <g» 

Rowland, James, 118 ' 

Royial, John Kelker, ooo 

Rudy, C. Landis 328 

Ruby, Charles W., 635 

Rudy, Joseph, ^»° 

Budy, Joseph, gr» 

Rudy, Michael, ™ 

Rummel, John L., ' «l — 

Bumpf , Charles C, 505 

Bunk, Philip 4 » 

Bunk, Philip, 909 

Bunk, Bev. Jacob, 909 

Eupp, JohnH 1009 

Bupp, Samuel, 1009 

Eupp, Samuel E 1014 

Buss, James, bis 

Buss, Narcissus, bi i 

Buss, Patrick, bl8 

Buss, William, "■ • big 

Rutherford, Abner, -go 

Rutherford, Abner, b9' 

Rutherforu, Abner, IbOl 

Rutherford, Capt. John. 177 

Rutherford, Francis W., 1048 

.Rutherford, John, 1011 

Rutherford, John 10U1 

Rutherford, John, 1048 

Rutherford, John Biisben, 229 

Eutherf ord, John Edmund, . . . 1018 

Rutherford, John E 1018 

Rutherford, John M., 771 

Rutherford, John P., 1013 

Rutherford, John Parke, 101^ 

Rutherford, John Parke. 2^b 

Rutherford, Levi, M. D 3bo 

Rutheford, S. "l 101 

Ruthejrford-,_Samnel H., lb; 

Rirtheirford, Samuel, /[</ 

—Rutherford, Samuel S. B.....-10 

Rutherford, W. F., }): 

Rutherford, William, 11 

Rutherford, William^. ...... .1J 

Rutherford. William W., M. D., c 

Ryan, Charles W ., , 

Ryan, John, 

Sallade, John, 1 

Sallade, Simon, 

Sample, Alexander, 

Sample. John B., 

Sanckey, Bev. BicharO. 

Sanderson, Alfred, 






Sangree, Rei. SEffiom H 273 

Sankey, James W., 567 

Saul, Charles H., M. D., 1050 

Saul, Henry R., 839 

Savage, James, 247 

Sawyer, Thomas, 881, 731 

Sawyer, Thomas J 881, 731 

Sawyer, William, Jr 339 

Sawyer, William, Sr., 138 

. Schaeffer, Dr. Uriah R G97 

Schaffer, Benjamin Franklin,. . 858 

Sckaffner, Daniel, 934 

Schaffner, D. W., M. D., 9S5 

Scheffer, Theodore F., 573 

Scheffer, Thomas Jefferson, ... 573 

Schieib, Charles Monroe, 901 

Schemer, Henry W 1127 

Schlayer, Andrew, 392 

Sehlayer, Jacob, 408 

Schlayer, Jacob F., 408 

Sahlosser, Andrew, 965 

Schruenky, John M. D 901 

Schminky, Gurney M., M. D., .1184 

Schooley, William G., 610 

Schriver, Charles C, 590 

Schriver, Cornelius, 590 

Schultz, Leonard, 83S 

Schubauer, Jacob C, 1145 

Seal, John Benjamin, 1064 

Sebourn, Andrew, 856 

Sees, Maj. Oliver Washington, 257 

Sees, AVilliani Edwards, 255 

Seiber, Charles F., 53S 

Seibert, George, 975 

" Seibert, Wm. Henry, M. D., 989, 975 

Seiler, Christian, M. D., 362 

Seiler, Jeremiah, M. D 364 

Seitz, J. Landis, M. D 385 

Seitz, Noah H., 385 

Selser, Samuel S., S41 

Sensenig, Isaac, 372 

Sensenig, Isaac B., M. D., . . . . 372 

Sergeant, William, 250 

Seubert, Rev. Father, F. C, . . 284 

Shadel, David F 797 

Shaefer, George, 733 

Sbaefer, Michael 733 

Shaffer, Clinton E 566 

Shaffer, Ellas, 566 

Shaffer, George W 938 

Shaffer, Willam S., 484 

Shaffner, Aaron, 867 

Shaffner, Francis W 1020 

Shaffner, Gabriel 615 

Shaffner. George, 1020 

Shaffner, Henry C, 615 

Shammo, William, 241 

Shanahan, Jeremiah F., D. D., 274 

Shartle, John, 686 

Sheafer, Maj. Henry Jackson, . 249 

Sheafer, Michael, 227 

Sheafer, Wood K., '. 469 

Shearer, Joseph L 603 

Sheesley, Daniel, 237 

Sheesley, John H 956 

Sheesley, John H 479 

Sheesley. William, 478 

Sheetz, Carson Asbury, 757 

Sheetz, George, 1139 

Sheetz, John, 754 

Sheetz, Samuel, 1139 

Sheetz, Washington, .'. .'1138 

fMieetz, Aviiliami H 758 

Sheetz, William J., ..[ 754 

Shelly, Daniel, iqq 

Shelly, J. O.,. ..'..' 664 

Shenk, Adam R., 710 

Shenk, Christian, 664 

Shf«nk, Cyrus G., ' 667 

Shenk, Cyrus G 664 

Shenk, Daniel, 710 

Shenk, John M 667 

Shenk. Samuel 667 

Shepler, Jacob H 840 



-^ 



Sherer, 
Shertzei', 
Shields, 
Shireman, 
Sbireinan, 
Shirk, Jaco 
Shirk, Mictuu 
Shirk, Simon, . 
Shiro, Jacob, . . . 
Shive, Edward L 
Shoch, Michael 
Shoemaker, Ge 
Shoemaker, Ho 
Shoop, Daniel, 
Shoo-p, Rev. Jai 
Shoop, John, . . 
Shope, Abraham 
Shope, Rev. Adai 
Shope, Andrew, . 
Shope, A. L., M. D 

Shope, C. B., 

Shope, David, 

Shope, David, M. D.,. 
Shope, Elias L., M. D. 

Shope, George F., 

Shope, George AV., 

Shope, Henry N., 

Shope, Jacob, 

Shope, Dr. Jacob 6 

Shope, Jacob W., 

Shope, Nathaniel, fi«j 

Shreiner, Aaron, y\ 

Shriver, John A., " 7'H 

Shriver, Henry, ' 741 

Shuey, Daniel, ' ' 956 

Shull, Dr. William M '. 697 

Shnltz, John, 761 

Shultz, Joshua . 761 

Shumberger, J. C., .... 476%, 473 
Shumk, Gov. Francis Rawn,.53, 208 

S'hunk, James Findlay, 345 

Shunk, John 20S 

Shutt, Henry Lawrence, ....'. 947 

Sible, John S., 481 

Sible, Peter, " ' 481 

Sieg, William, H. H ...' 979 

Sininis, Edward 495 

Simms, Samuel, .'. 495 

Simmons, George Washington' 236 

Simmons, Col. O. B., 313 

Simmons, Col. Seneca G. ,.'.'. '. 291 

Simon, Dr. Samuel H 943 

Simonton, Rev. Ashbel Green, . 274 
Simonton, Hon. John W., 431, 433 

Simonton, William, 210 

Simonton, William, M. D.,. .'.'. 352 

Simpson, John, 140 

Simpson,- Murray ' iso 

Siple, W. H 671 

Sitlinger, Isaac, 887 

Sloan, Alexander, 226 

Sloan, Robert, 145 

Slcan, William, . . 145 

Smelizer, David M., .' 1151 

jSmith, Andrew C, 949 

Smith, Charles G 625 

Smith, Charles H., M. D...... 798 

Smith, David H., 958 

Smith, D.'inie' M 411 

Smith, Edwin B., D. D. S.,. .. 393 

Smith, Frederick E., 997 

Smith, George, 788 

Smith, Henry, 1176 

Smith, Jacob 780 

Smith, John C, 412 

Smith, Michael, 411 

Smith, Peter, 393 

Smith, Peter A 569 

Smith, Simon 762 

Smith, Wellington J., M. D., . . 1166 

Smith, William C, M. D., 797 

Smith, William 634 

Smull. John Augustus, 340 

Smuller, George, 229 



i-iarry A., 

Sop«r, Leander V. B., 

Soulliard, John H \ 

Sourbier, George H., 

Sourbier, George H., Jr., .... {}._ 

Spahr, John, 49(. 

Spahr, John H., 495 

Spahr, William, A 497 

Spayd, Clarence E., .... 341, 351 

Spayd, J. AV., 349 

Spicer, Charles A 552 

Spieer, Henry, 552 

Spieer, J. Henry, 552 

Spitler, Adam G 1050 

Spracht, Harry W 1127 

Sponsler, Albert L. S85 

Sponsler, John, 876 

Sponsler, Joseph D., 1131 

Sponsler, Samuel B., 8S5 

Staekpole, E. J 935, 350 

Stable. Noah L 709 

Stanford, Bishop AV\ M.,. . 89, 277 

Stanford, Vincent W., 574 

Stanley, Alfred G., 1162 

Stauffer David H 937 

Stauffer, Rev. J. J 1128 

Stecher, Rev. Henry G .-635 

Steckel, Rev. L. D., ....1168, 899 
Steckley, Rev. Matthew, .... 276 

Stephenson, John D., 1010 

Stephenson, John L., 1010 

Steele, Gon. James 191 

Steese, Alfred David, 873 

Steese, Josiah G., 87 

Steever, Aaron M., 40 

Steever, James 40 

Stence, Ephriam Elijah, 87i 

Stence, Benjamin F 64; 

Stern, Emanuel, 57i 

Stevens, Rev. B. F 38? 

Stevens, John C, M. D., 38, 

Stewart, Andrew, i? 

Stewart, David 21 

Stewart, Rev. George B 2 

Stewart, Hugh, 1 

Stewart, John, 

Stewart, John M., 

Stewart, Lazarus, Jr., 

Stewart, Lazarus. Sr., 

Stewart, Robert Templeton. . 

Stewart, Samuel, 

Still, Samuel G 

Stine, Daniel P., • 

Stine, Frederick A., . 
Stiue, George W.. 



/ 



1 EL., . . 

.iac F., S 

/infield Scott. 

mger, Daniel, -jli 

minger, Frank 514 

jup, John B., 1096 

lToup, John C, M. D., 1095, 1097 

'Iroup, J. Harry, 1191 

otroup, Peter 1095 

Stroup. Samuel B., 1099 

Stroup, N. W., M. D., 1099, 1097 

Stuart. Andrew, 1-15 

Stuart, Rev. John, 146 

Stucker, George B., 416 

Stuc-ker, Peter 416 

Studebaker. Clement, 638 

Stutsman, John P., 962 

Swab, Aaron, 1103 

Swab, Daniel, 1102 

Swab, Eli 1111 

Swab, Isaac, 1106 

Swab, Jacob, 1105 

Swab, Jacob, 1111 

Swab, John D., 1127 

Swab, John G., 1126 

Swab, John Jacob, 1111 

Swab, Jonas, 1102 

Swallow. S. O., 345 

Swartz, J. Ross. M. D 383 

Swartz. Joshua W ' 461 

Swartz, Martin Nissley 837 

Swartz, Martin N 461 

Swartz, Robert- H., 561 

Swartz, Rev. Solomon L 837 

Sultzaberger, D. 983 

' veigard, Daniel 840 

'weigart, Michael, 872 

Tavlor, William 725 

Taylor, William H 470 

Templar. Joseph E 644 

r>nnev, Frank 1020 

•Tio-uas, Harry H., 517 

"nomas, Herbert 515 

nomas, James M., 518 

romas, Joseph L 651 

tunas, Martin, 177 

imas, Percy, 515 

.me. Charles V. M., M. D., 712 
impson, Alex. F., . .1160. 1115 
-npson, James Baxter, 593, 303 

-;ey, Samuel, 400 

■ley. Thomas A., 400 

J-Vhr, 228 

T ohn, 84 

^s A 534 

" 1563 



... 952 
940 

463 

584 

463 

5S4 

764 

841 

973 

842 

D 1095 

I. D SOS 

670 

913 

id, 844 

L., 634 

844 

R., M. D., 845, 844 

nuel, 890 

mt, 149 

J., 798 

J 700 

uel, 570 

omon, 570 

aip, William L 641 

jrn, William 417 

V I r, George P., 1050 

A' ; ighn, H. Patrick 581 

Verbeke, James C, M. D., . . . . 354 

Verbeke, Marion 656 

Verbeke, William K 317 

Vollmer, Charles T 495 

Vollmer, Harry A., 495 

Wagner, Frederick R 843 

Wagner, George, 937 

AVagner, George W 724 

Wagner, Henry 937 

Wagner, John, S43 

Wagner, John R 842 

Wagner, Serell, 944 

Walborn, Levi, 1060 

Walkemeyer, Henry, 649 

Walkemeyer, Frederick R., . . . 650 

Walker, James, 1015 

Walker, James Rutherford,. ..1015 

Wall, Richard J., 672 

Wallace, John J., 1170 

Wallace, Joseph, 208 

Wallace, Robert, 507 

Wallace, Samuel T., 1171 

Wallace, Thomas L 507 

Wallace, William L 1171 

Wallace, William, ■ 193 

Wallis, Frank J 484 

Wallis, Joseph, 620 

Wallis, Robert 618 

Wallis, William 619 

Walter, Charles P 330 

Walmer, George W 7S3 

Walmer, George, 568 

Walmer, Henry G 671 

Walmer. John, 568 

Walmer. Noah A., 568 

Walter, Henry, 330 

Walter, Henry B., M. D., 377, 384 

Walter, John S 963 

Walter William 384 

Walton, Allen, 669 

Walton, Allen K 690 

Walton. Robert J., 672 

Waltz, Daniel 947 

Waltz, Benjamin, 952 

Watson. Jackson 484 

Waugh, Beverly Roberts 248 

Weast, George B 556 

Weaver, Adam G., 1076 

AVeaver. David B , 926 

Weaver, Joseph, 870 

Weaver, John S 646 



-^~. , 1075 

-n-pbeiv vv miam. ■.'.'.'."' 046 

Webner, Aaron, ....'.) 1130 

AVeise. Adam 149 

Welker, Joshua, 869 

—SVeils. James B., 502 

AVendel. Rev. Jacob Hugo R., . 2S4 

Wemrieh, Francis, 1051 

AVenriek, Francis, 200 

Wenriek, Peter, 200 

Werner, Jacob, 710 

Wes'tf all, John C, 927 

Whiteside, George A 565 

Whiteside, John E., 565 

AVhiteside. John Elton 519 

Whitley, Capt. Michael, 175 

Whitman, Bartholomew, .... 753 

Whitman, John, ; 754 

Whitman, William, 753 

Whitnier, Abraham U 842 

Whitmover. Simon 508 

Whitney, Everett E., 1024 

AA'hitney, James B., 1156 

AA r ickersham, Frank B 977 

Wier, James Wallace, 336 

Wier, James Wallace 228 

Wier, John Andrew 225 

Wierman, Thomas T., . . 647, 295 

Wierinan, Thomas T.. Jr., 525 

AA lestling, Benjamin J., M. D., 362 

AViestling, George P 337 

Wiestling, Joshua M., M. D.,. 355 

Wiestling, Samuel C, 631 

Wiggins, John 151 

Wilbert, C. B 743 

Wilbert, Levi 743 

AA'ild, John 649 

AA r illiams, Edward Charles, 35, 244 

AVilliams, Evan 494 

Williams, Frank E., 494 

Williams, Robert E., 502 

Williams, Thomas M., . . 1157, 1079 

AVillard, John Peter, 52 

Williard, John Peter 1S3 

Wilsdn, Henry, M. D 390 

Wilson, Thomas 333 

Wilson', Thomas Low 335 

Wilson, William G., 542 

Wiit. Harry 996 

Wilvert, Heory E 86S 

Wilvert, Henry M., 868 

Wimer, L. Edmund 941 

Winebrenner, Rev. John, 611, 263 

Winger, Henry C, M. D 397 

Wingert, Jesse "I- 

Wirt, Charles L., 959 

Withers, Samuel 709 

Withers, Samuel G., '09 

Witmon, Daniel, . ........... 950 

Witman, Henry Orth, M. D.,. . 35S 

Witman, John, gjJ 

Witman, John A 84^ 

AA'itman, John Otto, 35b 

AA r itman, R. E §50 

Witmer, Christian, bbO 

Witmer, Daniel 92b 

Witmer, Joseph B bbO 

Witmer, Peter, 667 

Witmer. Peter 660 

Wolf, Elias • • ■ ■ 463 

Wolf, Franklin < <3, 815 

Wolf, George W 815 

Wolf, Jacob F T04 

Wolf, William 463 

Wolfe, Gov., oo 

Wolfe, Leroy J 44. 

Wolfersberger, Levi -llfo 

AA'orden, Henry M. F., _. . 550 

Worden, James H 54 1 

Worley, Rev. Daniel A. M., . . 267 

Worrall, James 166 

Worrall, John lbfa 

Wyeth, Francis, 336 

Wyeth, John, 333 

AVvnn, Webster 862 



I 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



This is the race which furnished the popu- 
lation in the north of Ireland, familiarly 
known as the Scotch-Irish. This term — ■ 
American in its origin, and unknown in Ire- 
land — does not denote an admixture of the 
Scotch and Irish races. The one did not in- 
termarry with the other. The Scotch were 
principally Saxon in blood and Presbyterian 
in religion ; the native Irish Celtic in blood 
and Roman Catholic in religion ; and these 
were elements which could not very readily 
coalesce. Hence the races are as distinct in 
Ireland at the present day as when the Scotch 
first took up their abode in that island. 
They were called Scotch-Irish simply from 
the circumstances that they were the de- 
scendants of Scots who had taken up their 
residence in the north of Ireland. 

Taxation and oppression, however, with 
difficulties partly political, partly religious, 
no doubt were the strong motives which one 
hundred and eighty years ago induced the 
Scotch-Irish to leave Ireland. It was not 
the home of their ancestors, it was endeared 
to them by no traditions, and they sought 
and obtained in the wilds of Pennsylvania 
a better home than they had in the Old 
World. 

Extensive emigration from the northern 
counties of Ireland were principally made 
at two distinct periods of time. The first 
from about the year 1717 to the middle of 
the century, the second from about 1771 to 
1773. They were Protestants, generally 
Presbyterians — few or none of the Roman 
Catholic Irish came until after the war of 
the Revolution, and few then until after the 
great political upheaval in 1798, since which 
period, as we all know, the flow of the latter 
class of immigrants has been one continuous 
stream. 

The Scotch-Irish emigrants landed prin- 
cipally at New Castle and Philadelphia, 
save a handful who had settled on the Ken- 
nebec in Maine, and of these the greater por- 
tion eventually came into Pennsylvania. 
Settling on the frontiers from Easton to the 
Susquehanna and the Potomac, the stream 
of immigration continued south to Virginia 
and the Carolinas. 

The country north of the Swatara had not 
been visited save by French traders prior 
to the coming of William Penn. After his. 
first visit he seems to have been well in- 
formed concerning this locality, and person- 
ally visited it, and at or above the mouth 
of the Swatara decided to locate a city, and 



proposals were consequently issued therefor 
in 1690. It is easily understood why the 
project was never carried out. The careful 
reader of Pennsylvania history will readily 
comprehend the peculiar conditions sur- 
rounding the founder. The government of 
his Province was giving him serious concern. 
The material composing his Assembly was 
of that stubborn, self-willed character that 
little could be done, and he had as much as 
he could do in the preservation and foster- 
ing of those enterprises he had already be- 
gun. 

The Early German Settlers. 

The origin of the German-Swiss popula- 
tion in Pennsylvania dates back to the latter 
part of the seventeenth century. As early 
as 1684, Francis Daniel Pastorius, of whom 
the poet Whittier has sung so sweetly, with 
a colony of Germans settled and laid out 
Germantown near to the Metropolis. These 
came from Cresheim, Germany, and were in 
religious opinions and proclivities allied to 
the Quakers. Other colonists followed, set- 
tling in different parts of the Province. It 
was not, however, until the years 1709 and 
1710 that the emigration of the Germans 
was of any magnitude. For two or three 
years previous Queen Anne, of England, 
gave refuge to thousands of the Palatinates, 
who, oppressed by the exactions of the French , 
were forced to flee from their homes. It is 
stated that in the month of July, 1709, there 
arrived at London six thousand five hun- 
dred and twenty German Protestants. Trans- 
portation was gratuitously given many to 
America through the aid of the Queen and 
the government of England. The vast ma- 
jority were sent at first to New York, from 
whence many reached the confines of Penn- 
sylvania, a province the laws of which were 
more tolerant than those of any of the new 
colonies. Among these German emigrants 
were Mennonites, Dunkards, German Re- 
formed and Lutherans. Their number was 
so great during the subsequent years tha' 
James Logan, secretary to the Proprietar 
wrote, " We have of late great number? 
Palatines poured in upon us without an 
commendation or notice which givf 
country some uneasiness, for foreigr 
not so well among us as our own 
people." Two years afterwards 
Dickinson remarks, "We are da ; 
ing ships from London which 
Palatines in number about f 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



thousand. We had a parcel who came out 
about five years ago, who purchased land 
about sixty miles from Philadelphia and 
proved quiet and industrious. Some few 
came from Ireland lately, and more are ex- 
pected thence. This is besides our common 
supply from Wales and England. Ourfriends 
do increase mightily, and a great people there 
is in the wilderness which is fast becoming a 
fruitful field." 

These emigrants settled principally in 
Montgomery, Bucks and Lancaster counties, 
the latter including the present counties of 
Dauphin and Lebanon. Thej^ were well 
educated, and brought with them their min- 
isters and school-masters; the latter very 
frequently, when there was a want of supply 
of the former, read sermons and prayers. 

Between the years 17-20 and 1725 a large 
number of Germans, who had previously 
settled in Schoharie county, N. Y., descended 
the Susquehanna river on rafts to the mouth 
of the Swatara, ascending which stream, al- 
ready settled by the Scotch-Irish, they took 
up their abode near the waters of the Tulpe- 
hocken, partly in Berks county, some few 
miles within the present limits of Lebanon 
county. The celebrated Conrad Weiser 
was of this party of colonists 

From 1725, for a period of ten years, there 
was another great influx of Germans of vari- 
ous religious opinions — Reformed, Luther- 
ans, Moravians, Swenkfelders and Roman 
Catholics. By a letter of Secretary James 
Logan, in 1725, it appears that many of 
these settlers were not over-scrupulous in 
their compliance with the regulations of the 
land office. He says, and perchance with 
much truth, "They come in in crowds, and 
as bold, indigent strangers from German}', 
where many of them have been soldiers. 
All these go on the best vacant tracts and 
seize upon them as places of common spoil." 
He again says, "They rarely approach me on 
their arrival to propose to purchase;" and 
and adds, " when they are sought out and 
challenged for their right of occupancy they 
liege it was published in Europe that we 

Mited and solicited for colonists, and had a 

srabundance of land, and therefore they 

come without the means to pay." In 

'■■hose who thus " squatted " without 

cquired enough by their thrift in a 

s to pay for the land which they had 

pied, and so, generally, they were 

] ested. Secretary Logan further 

\y of them are Papists — the men 



well armed, and as a bod)' a warlike, morose 
race." In 1727 he writes, "About six thou- 
sand Germans more are expected (and also 
many from Ireland), and these emigrations" 
he " hopes may be prevented in the future 
by act of Parliament, else these Colonies will 
in time be lost to the Crown." The italics in 
the last sentence are our own. To us it 
seems like a prophecy. 

From 1735 to 1752 emigrants came into 
the Province by thousands. In the autumn 
of 1749 not less than twenty vessels with 
German passengers to the number of twelve 
thousand arrived at Philadelphia. In 1750, 
1751 and 1752 the number was not much 
less. Among those who emigrated during 
these years were many who bitterly lamented 
having forsaken their native land for the 
Province of Pennsylvania. At that time 
there was a class of Germans who had resided 
some time in Pennsylvania, well known by 
the name of Neulander, who, acting in the 
capacity of agents for certain firms — promi- 
nent Quakers of Philadelphia — went to Ger- 
many and Switzerland, prevailing on their 
countrymen to sacrifice their property and 
emigrate to Pennsylvania. Many persons in 
easy circumstances at home were induced to 
embark for America. False representations 
were made, lands were offered for the settling 
thereon, a nominal charge was to be made 
for the passage on ship-board, and every in- 
centive employed by these nefarious agents 
to beguile the unsuspecting. 

Of the horrors and privations of that six 
or eight weeks on ship-board we shall not 
refer, the bare recital of which is terrible to 
contemplate even at this late day. The 
condition of these emigrants on their arrival 
was absolutely wretched. The exactions of 
the masters of the vessels, the plundering of 
their baggage by these unscrupulous pirates, 
placed them at the tender mercy of the 
Quaker merchants who purchased the entire 
cargo of living freight as a speculation, such 
being the object in sending out their agents; 
and men, women, and children were thus 
sold at auction for a term of years to the 
highest and best bidder. It was white slav- 
ery, and those concerned considered that it 
paid them better than negro slaveiy. We 
have recently examined some records which 
throw additional light upon this subject of 
German emigration, and prove conclusively 
that for years this nefarious traffic was car- 
ried on. This statement is not flattering to 
Pennsylvania and her history, it is true, but 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



the people at large or the government were 
not wholly responsible for the acts of those 
who insisted upon their " pound of flesh." 
The persons thus disposed of were termed 
redemptioners. They were usually sold at 
ten pounds for from three to five years' servi- 
tude; and in almost every instance the time 
for which they were sold was honestly served 
out, while many subsequently, by dint of 
industry and frugality, rose to positions of 
wealth and importance in the State and 
Nation. 

In later times, say from 1753 to 1756, the 
Germans having become numerous and 
therefore powerful as " make-weights " in 
the political balance were much noticed in 
the publications of the day, and were at that 
period in general in verj' hearty co-operation 
with the Quakers then in rule in the Assem- 
bly. From that time onward, although not 
so numerous, almost all the German emi- 
grants to America located in Pennsylvania. 

A manuscript pamphlet in the Franklin 
Library at Philadelphia, said to have been 
written by Samuel Wharton in 1755, con- 
tains certain facts which are worthy of repro- 
duction in this connection, showing, as it 
does, their influence in the Province, whether 
fancied or actual we do not say. "The party 
on the side of the Friends," says the writer, 
" derived much of their influence over the 
Germans, through the aid of Christopher 
Sauer, who published a German paper in 
Germantown as early as 1729, and which, 
being much read by that people, influenced 
them to the side of the Friends and hostile 
to the Governor and Council. Through this 
means they have persuaded them that there 
was a design to enslave them, to enforce their 
young men, by a contemplated militia law, 
to become soldiers, and to load them down 
with taxes, etc., from such causes," he adds, 
" have they come down in shoals to vote, 
and carrying all before them." " To this I 
may add," says Watson, " that I have heard 
from the Norris family that their ancestors 
in the Assembly were warmly patronized by 
the Germans in union with Friends. His 
alarm at this German influence at the polls, 
and his proposed remedies for the then 
dreaded evils, as they show the prevalent 
feelings of his associates in politics, may 
serve to amuse the present generation. He 
says the best effects of these successes of the 
Germans will probably be felt through many 
generations ! Instead of a peaceable, indus- 
trious people as before, they are grown now 



insolent, sullen and turbulent, in some 
counties threatening even the lives of all 
those who oppose their views, because they 
are taught to regard government and slaver}' 
as one and the same thing. All who are 
not of their party they call 'Governor's 
men,' and themselves they deem strong 
enough to make the country their own ! 
Indeed, they come in such force, say up- 
wards of five thousand in the last year, I see 
not but they may soon be able to give us 
law and language, too, or else, by joining 
the French, eject all the English. That this 
may be the case is too much to be feared, for 
almost to a man they refused to bear arms 
in the time of the late war. and they say it 
is all one to them which king gets the coun- 
try, as their estates will be equally secure. 
Indeed it is .clear that the French have 
turned their hopes upon this great body of 
Germans. They hope to allure them by 
grants of Ohio lands. To this end they send 
their Jesuitical emissaries among them to 
persuade them over to the Popish religion. 
In concert with this the French for so many 
years have encroached on our Province, 
and are now so near their scheme as to be 
within two days' march of some of our back 
settlements," alluding, of course, to the state 
of the western country, overrun by French 
and Indians just before the arrival of Brad- 
dock's forces in Virginia in 1755. 

The writer imputes their wrong bias in 
general to their "stubborn genius and ignor- 
ance," which he proposes to soften by educa- 
tion; "a scheme still suggested as necessary 
to give the general mass of the inland coun- 
try Germans right views of public individual 
interests. To this end he proposes that faith- 
ful Protestant ministers and school-masters 
should be supported among them ; that their 
children should be taught the English tongue ; 
the government in the mean time should sus- 
pend their right of voting for members of 
Assembly, and to incline them the sooner to 
become English in education and feeling, we 
should compel them to make all bonds and 
other legal writings in English, and no news- 
paper or almanac be circulated among them 
unless also accompanied by the English 
thereof." "Finally," he concludes, "without 
some such measure I see nothing to prevent 
this Province from falling into the hands of 
the French." A scheme to educate the Ger- 
mans as the one alluded to was put on foot in 
1755, and carried on for several years, but 
really with little good results. The Ger- 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



man settlers appreciated education, for they 
brought their ministers and school-masters 
with them, and there were few who could not 
read or write. They could write their names, 
and as great a proportion as their English 
neighbors, the Quakers. The difficulty was 
not alone to educate them in the English 
tongue, but for the English Church. That 
they did not take kindly to, and after the 
lapse of a century and a quarter in many 
localities there is the same objection to the 
"scheme of 1755." This matter has been 
wrongly construed to the detriment of the 
German settlers, the} r fostered education, but 
the}' did not approve being taught the Eng- 
lish vernacular. 

While upon this subject of the early settle- 
ment, it may as well be stated that the Penn- 
sylvania Germans are not the descendants of 
the Hessians, who were brought to America 
by the British government to put down the 
rebellion of 1776, as has repeatedly been 
charged by New England historians. This 
statement is as impudent as it is false. All 
of the German " Mercenaries," as they are 
called, who were prisoners of war and sta- 
tioned in Pennsylvania, according to Baron 
Reidesel, who was one of the commanders, 
were properly accounted for, and were re- 
turned to their own country upon the evacu- 
ation of New York by the British. They did 
not remain; as it was a condition entered into 
by the English government with the Land- 
grave of Brunswick, the Duke of Hesse- 
Cassel, and the petty princes of Hanau and 
Waldeck, that a certain price was to be paid 
for every man killed, wounded or missing. 
Before the official proclamation of peace the 
Hessian prisoners were on their way to New 
York, by direction of the Supreme Executive 
Council of Pennsylvania. Some few de- 
serted, and some eventually returned to 
America after their transportation to Ger- 
many, but the bold assertion that the origin 
of the large German population of Pennsyl- 
vania is due to the settlement of those hired 
mercenaries of England cannot be supported, 
and shows the profoundest historical ignor- 
ance and audacious stupidity. 

Pennsylvania took the lead of the Colonies 
in agriculture because of the great number 
of Germans settling in the Province ; and 
Governor Thomas, as early as 1738, wrote, 
" This Province has been for some years the 
asylum of the distressed Protestants of tha 
Palatinate and other parts of Germany, and 
I believe it may with truth be said that the 



present flourishing condition of it is in a great 
measure owing to the industry of those people — 
it is not altogether the goodness of the soil, 
but the number and industry of the people 
that make a flourishing colony" (Col. Rec. 
iv, p. SIS). The exportation of farm '.products 
kept pace with the increase of the popula- 
tion. In 1751 there were exported 86,000 
bushels of wheat, 129,960 barrels of flour, 
90,743 bushels of Indian corn. The total 
exports of 1761 exceeded $1,000,000 in value. 
This was a period when the entire population 
did not exceed 180,000, whereof nearly one- 
half were Germans. 

That the Germans of Pennsylvania have 
been so uniformly successful in acquiring 
wealth is due to their industry, to their thrift 
and to their knowledge of agricultural pur- 
suits. If some portions of Pennsylvania are 
the garden-spots of America they have been 
made so by the Germans who have tilled 
them — who have indeed "made the wilder- 
ness to blossom as the rose." Not anywhere 
in the New England States, in New York nor 
in the South are farms so well tilled, so 
highly cultivated as in the sections of Penn- 
sylvania where the descendants of the Ger- 
mans predominate ; and we assert, with out 
fear of contradiction, that more works on agri- 
culture, more papers devoted to farming, are 
taken and read by the so-called " Pennsylva- 
nia Dutch " farmers than by the farmers of 
any other section of the Union. That our Ger- 
man citizens are not " content to live in huts" 
is palpably certain, and whoever will go into 
the homes of our farmers will find evidence 
of both refinement and culture, their farms 
being easily distinguished from those of 
others by the great fences, the extent of the 
orchard, the fertility of the soil, the produc- 
tiveness of the fields, the luxuriance of the 
meadows, the superiority of his horse, which 
seems to feel with his owner the pleasure 
of good living. And although their barns 
are capacious, because their dwellings are not 
castles, they should not be accused of indif- 
ference to their own domiciles. At the pres- 
ent time it is rare to find a farm-house in the 
old German settlements that does not con- 
tain a double parlor, sitting-room, dining- 
room, kitchen and outkitchen, with six or 
eight bed-rooms. This is more general in 
the counties of Berks, Lancaster, Lebanon, 
Dauphin and Cumberland than among the 
New England settled counties of the North 
and West — the Quaker counties of Chester 
and Bucks in Pennsylvania — and to go to 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



New England, the latter are not to be men- 
tioned in comparison. 

Of the Pennsylvania German language 
or idiom, which is the vernacular of the 
greater portion of the people of this section 
of the State, especially in the farming dis- 
tricts, we will not speak, except to state that, 
at the present time, there are few persons 
speaking this patois who are unable also to 
speak and read English. Those who are 
not conversant with English are of recent 
importation from the Fatherland. Because 
the Dunkards and other religious bodies re- 
tain the peculiar views of their ancestors 
they are accused of being unprogressive, of 
preservingthe customs and general character- 
istics of the race, which is far from the truth. 
Next to the Scotch-Irish no race has left such 
a high and lofty impress upon this Nation as 
has the German. There is less ignorance 
and superstition in the German counties of 
of Pennsylvania than will be found in 
any agricultural region East, West, North or 
South. Because some old plodding farmer, 
who prefers remaining on his farm attend- 
ing to his cattle and grain, caring little of 
going beyond the county town in his visits, 
his disinclination ought not to be reputed to 
either his ignorance or to his being close- 
fisted. In the German counties one rarely 
meets with an individual who has never been 
" to town," and we venture an opinion that 
both in the New England States and in 
New York are there many persons who have 
never visited the county seat ; and as for visit- 
ing Boston and New York City, where one 
farmer has visited either metropolis, we as- 
sert that two Pennsylvania German farmers 
have seen their own city of Philadelphia. 

German opposition to common schools 
has been a terrible bugaboo to very many 
outside of Pennsylvania, who never under- 
stood the occasion of it. Foremost among 
the opponents of the free-school system 
were the Quakers, the opposition arising 
from the fact that, having had schools estab- 
lished for many years, supported by their 
own contributions, they were opposed to be 
ing taxed for the educational maintenance 
of others. Precisely similar were the objec- 
tions in the German districts. As has already 
been accurately stated, the German emi- 
grants brought their school-masters with 
them, and schools were kept and supported 
by them. More frequently the church pas- 
tor served as teacher, and hence, when the 
proposition came to establish the system 



of public education, the people were not pre- 
pared for it, for the free schools severed 
education from positive religion. But that 
was nearly sixty years ago, and, to the credit 
and honor of the German element in Penn- 
sylvania, Governor George Wolf, the father 
of the free-school system, and Governor 
Joseph Ritner and William Audenreid, the 
earnest advocates of the same, were of Ger- 
man descent. The opposition died away in 
a few years, and a glance at the school sta- 
tistics of Pennsylvania would open the eyes 
of our New England friends and astonish 
the descendants of Diedrick Knickerbocker. 
The present system and management of 
public education in our State is in the lead 
in the Union, and figures and facts will bear 
us out in our assertion. 

As a general thing the first settlers were 
staid farmers. Their mutual wants produced 
mutual dependence, hence they were kind 
and friendly to each other — thej r were ever 
hospitable tostrangers. Their want of money 
in the early times made it necessary for them 
to associate for the purpose of building houses, 
cutting their grain, etc. This they did in turn 
for each other without any other pay than 
the pleasures which usually attended a coun- 
try frolic. Strictly speaking, what is attributed 
to them as virtues might be called good quali- 
ties, arising from necessity and the peculiar 
state of society in which these people lived — 
patience, industry and temperance. 



CHAPTER II. 

John Harris, Trader and Pioneer — Early Assess- 
ment Lists. 

As stated, the settlers began to pour in, and 
warrants for land were taken up in various 
townships, as soon as the land office was 
opened, it having been closed from the time 
of the death of William Penn until 1732. 
For a record of these warrantees our readers 
are referred to the author's History of Dau- 
phin County, published in 1883. Most of 
these show who were the first settlers in the 
various townships now forming Dauphin 
county. It was not for twenty years after the 
organization of the county of Lancaster that 
we have any assessment lists,giving the names 
of the people who inhabited the various town- 
ships. Recently the earliest in existence, com- 
mencing in 1751 and continuing down to the 
time of the Revolution, came into our pos- 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



session and copies made therefrom. For per- 
manent reference these lists are of great value 
and we include them in this sketch of the 
history of our county as being of very great 
import in locating the earliest settlers. 

The first English trader we hear of within 
the limits of the county was John Harris. 
The fears of the French, who were constantly 
gaining ground in the northwestern part of 
the Province, and especially of " Papists," 
which all at once seems to have filled our 
Quaker friends with terror, it became abso- 
lutely necessary to license only English 
traders, and they of Protestant proclivities, 
so as to prevent communication with the 
French on the Ohio. Among the first was 
John Harris, who perchance entered this 
then lucrative field, the Indian trade, at 
the suggestion of his most intimate friend, 
Edward Shippen, Provincial Secretary. 

Of the John Harris who thus located per- 
manently at Harrisburg, and who gave name 
to that city, it may not be inappropriate to 
refer. " He was as honest a man as ever 
broke bread " was the high eulogium pro- 
nounced by Parson Elder, of blessed mem- 
ory, as he spoke of the pioneer in after years. 
Born in the county of Yorkshire, England, 
although of Welsh descent, about the year 
1673, he was brought up in the trade of his 
father, that of a brewer. Leaving his home on 
reaching his majority, he worked at his call- 
ing some time in the city of London, where he 
joined, a few years afterwards, a company 
from his native district, who emigrated to 
Pennsylvania two or three years prior to 
Penn's second visit to his Province. Watson 
states that John Harris' " entire capital 
amounted to only sixteen guineas." 

We first hear of him after his arrival in 
Philadelphia as a contractor for clearing 
and grading the streets of that ancient vil- 
lage. In 1698 his name is appended to a 
remonstrance to the Provincial Assembly 
against the passage of an act disallowing the 
franchise to all persons owning real estate 
less in value than fifty pounds. The memo- 
rial had its effect, and the objectionable law 
was repealed. By letters of introduction to 
Edward Shippen, the first mayor of Phila- 
delphia, that distinguished gentleman be- 
came his steadfast friend, and through his 
influence, no doubt, were secured those 
favors which induced him eventually to 
become the first permanent settler in this 
locality. 

In January, 1705, John Harris received 



his license from the commissioners of prop- 
erty authorizing and allowing him to "seat 
himself on the Sasquahannah," and " to 
erect such buildings as are necessary for his 
trade, and to enclose and improve such 
quantities of land as he shall think fit." At 
once he set about building a log house near 
the Ganawese (Conoy) settlement, but the 
Indians made complaint to the government 
that it made them " uneasie," desiring to 
know if they encouraged it. As in numer- 
ous instances when the provincial author- 
ities were taken to task, they disavowed 
their own acts. Nevertheless, the " trader " 
continued his avocation, making frequent 
visits to the Swawanese villages at the Cone- 
wago and Swatara. It is doubtful if John 
Harris came farther west until after the per- 
manent removal of all the French traders. 

It was during one of his expeditions that 
Harris first beheld the beauty and advantages 
of the location at Paxtang. It was the best 
fording place on the Susquehanna, and then, 
as now in these later days, on the great 
highway between the North and South, the 
East and West. Annually the chiefs of the 
Five Nations went to the Carolinas, where 
were located their vast hunting-grounds, 
and these, returning with peltries, found 
need of a trading-post. The eye of that 
hardy pioneer, looking out over the vast ex- 
panse of wood, and plain, and river, saw 
and knew that it was the place for the reali- 
zation of that fond dream of the founder of 
Pennsylvania, the great and good Penn, "a 
city on the Susquehanna." At the period 
referred to, the lands lying between the Oone- 
wago or Lechay Hills and Kittochtinny or 
Blue Mountains had not been purchased 
from the Indians. Of course, neither John 
Harris nor the Scotch-Irish settlers could 
locate except by the right of squa.tter sover- 
eignty or as licensed traders. As a trader, 
it could only be with the permission of the 
Indians. 

Plarris' first move was the erection of a 
store-house, which he surrounded by a stock- 
ade. It was located on the lower bank of 
the river, at about what is now the foot of 
Paxtang street. A well dug by him still 
exists, although covered over about thirty- 
five years ago, the old pump stock having 
become useless and the platform dangerous. 
A mound or hillock about one hundred feet 
southeast of the graveyard denotes the spot. 
" For almost a century," in the language of 
the late David Harris, " this well supplied a 



\ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



large neighborhood with water, which was 
exceedingly cool and pleasant to the taste." 
Adjoining his cabin were sheds for the hous- 
ing of peltries obtained by traffic, which at 
stated periods were conveyed to Philadelphia 
on pack-horses. 

Some years prior to 1718 an incident took 
place in the life of John Harris which has 
received all sorts of versions, and even 
doubts of truthfulness. We shall give it as 
we believe it, and as traditionary and other 
facts in our possession supply the material 
therefor. All the French traders having 
"gone over Sasqnahannah," John Harris 
monopolized the business at Paxtang. In 
glancing over the records of the Province of 
Pennsylvania, frequent allusions are made 
to the excursions of the northern Indians, 
either to hunting-grounds in the South or to 
a conflict with a deadly foe. At one time 
the Onondagoes, on a predatory excursion 
against theTalapoosas, in Virginia, descend- 
ing the Susquehanna, left their canoes at 
Harris', proceeding thence to the scene of 
strife. Situated as he was, at the best ford 
on the river, he commanded an extensive 
trade. His Indian neighbors (Shawanese) 
were very friendly, and of course would not 
allow any strange or predatory bands to 
molest him. The deadly foe of the red race 
is rum, and although the selling of it was 
expresslj' forbidden by the provincial au- 
thorities, yet there was scarcely a treaty or 
conference without this potion being a part 
of the presents made by the refined white 
man to his ignorant red brother. Of a con- 
sequence liquor was sold, and we are told by 
Conrad Weiser that on one occasion " on the 
Sasquahannah," the Indians whom he was 
conducting to Philadelphia became so drunk 
that he was fearful of them and left them. At 
the first period referred to, it seems a preda- 
tory band of Indians, on returning from the 
Carolinas, or the " Patowmack," naturally 
halted at John Harris'. In exchanging 
part of their goods, probably rum — for this 
seems to have been the principal beverage 
drunk at that period — was one of the articles 
in barter. At least we have it by tradition 
that the Indians became riotous in their 
drunken revelry, and demanding more rum 
were refused by Mr. Harris, who began to 
fear harm from his visitors. Not to be de- 
nied, they again demanded liquor, and seiz- 
ing him, they took him to a tree near by, 
binding him thereto. After helping them- 
selves to whatever they wanted of his stores, 



they danced around the unhappy captive, 
who no doubt thought his death was nigh. 

Prior to this the Indian village of Paxtang 
had been deserted, and the inhabitants re- 
moved to the west side of the Susquehanna. 
On the bluff opposite John Harris', as also 
at the mouth of the Yellow Breeches, there 
were lodges of Shawanese, and these held our 
Indian trader in high esteem. Information 
was taken them by Mr. Harris' negro servant, 
when at once were summoned the warriors, 
who crossed the river, where after a slight 
struggle with the drunken Indians they 
rescued from a death of torture their white 
friend. 

Esther, a daughter of the first John Harris, 
left three daughters: Elizabeth, married to 
Samuel Maclay ; Isabella, married to Wil- 
liam Bell, of New York, and Margaret, mar- 
ried to Isaac Richardson, of Pennsylvania, 
and then or subsequently living in York 
county. All of these granddaughters made 
statements in relation to the occurrence in 
question. 

In the year 1840 G. W. Harris had a con- 
versation with Mrs. Bell on this subject. 
She stated that she was born in 1760. That 
in 1766 she was coming from Carlisle, where 
she lived, to Harrisburg with her father and 
some of her sisters. When they came to the 
river opposite to Harrisburg, where William 
Harris was then living, some of the children 
pointed to an old man fishing in the river, 
and they mentioned that he had saved the 
life of his master, John Harris, from the In- 
dians. She said that she understood it to be 
when he was tied to the mulberry tree. 

Robert Maclay, of Kishacoquillas Valley, 
Mifflin county, wrote some years ago a state- 
ment as to this matter, from information ob- 
tained from his mother and her sisters, Mrs. 
Bell and Mrs. Richardson. His statement is 
to the effect that a party of Indians came to 
trade, and after obtaining what Mr. Harris 
had given to them, or traded for, thej r de- 
manded rum, which he refused. They then 
determined to burn him, and bound him 
with hickory withes to a mulberry tree on 
the bank of the river, and commenced gath- 
ering and piling wood around him. While 
they were gathering wood his negro man, 
Hercules, slipped off and informed friendly 
Indians on the opposite side of the river, 
who at once came in sufficient force to rescue 
and save his master. He added, as the state- 
ment of these ladies, that Mr. Harris set Her- 
cules free, and that afterwards he directed 



10 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



that, he should be buried under the mulberry 
tree. Hercules died a considerable time after 
the death of John Harris, and is buried 
there. 

Mr. Maclay also furnished a .statement, 
which he had heard from his mother, to the- 
effect that some friends endeavored to dis- 
suade the old gentleman, Mr. Harris, from 
his determination to be buried under the 
mulberry tree, alleging that the river bank 
was being washed away and the grave might 
be exposed and perhaps wasted away, and 
that he ought to be buried in the Paxtang 
church graveyard, but that he silenced all 
argument by saying that if you bury me out 
in Paxtang I'll get up and come back. One 
of his daughters, Mrs. Elizabeth Finley, is 
also buried under the mulberry tree. 

Here, then, is the statement, of Robert 
Harris, a grandson of John Harris, and of 
three of his granddaughters to the alleged 
occurrence at the mulberry tree, and Mr. 
Harris adds that Mrs. Bell and Mrs. Richard- 
son were known to him, and were persons of 
superior intellect. 

Robert Maclay also mentioned an incident, 
as derived from the same source, that an 
Indian in a distressed condition, on a cold 
night, came to the house of John Harris and 
sought admission. He was received and 
lay by the fire during the night. When the 
Indians came to the relief of John Harris it 
is said that this Indian was with them. 

As to whether the alarm was given by 
Hercules, in a conversation with Robert 
Harris, about the year 1840, in which he 
said that the alarm on the occasion in ques- 
tion was not given by Hercules, but in some 
other way, how he did not know; but that 
Hercules had saved the life of his master on 
another occasion, I think he said when he 
was endangered from a steer in the fiat on 
the river. But Mr. Samuel Breck, of Phila- 
delphia, previous to October, 1827, wrote an 
account relative to Harrisburg, in which, 
in reference to this alleged occurrence at the 
mulberry tree, he states that the Indians 
who came to the relief of John Harris were 
led by Hercules, and he adds that the nar- 
rative was submitted in substance to the in- 
spection of Mr. Robert Harris, and declared 
by him to be correct. 

When the picture relative to that scene 
(in possession of the State of Pennsylvania) 
was painted by Reeder, who was in com- 
munication with Robert Harris, the latter, it 
would seem, was of opinion that the alarm 



was not given by Hercules, and Hercules 
did not appear in it. His attention may not 
have been directed especially to the 'state- 
ment relative to Hercules in the narrative of 
Mr. Breck, or his subsequent recollection 
may have been at fault. The burden of 
evidence seems to be that the alarm was 
given by Hercules, and if it were, he is en- 
titled to representation in the picture. 

We have been thus explicit because the 
incident has been stated as untrue, and 
hence have given such traditional - }' evidence 
as it has been possible to obtain. 

Although no mention of these facts is 
made in the provincial records, there may 
possibly have been good reason therefor, and 
it is well known that many incidents, well 
authenticated in later years, have not been 
noted in the documents referred to. By 
tradition and private sources alone are they 
preserved from oblivion. It was no myth, 
this attempt to burn John Harris, and al- 
though the pen and pencil have joined in 
making therefrom a romance and height- 
ened it with many a gaudy coloring, yet 
accurate resources have furnished us with 
the details here given. 

The remains of this tree, which in the 
memory of the oldest inhabitant bore 
fruit, stood until 1865 within the enclosure — 
a striking memento of that thrilling inci- 
dent. The late George W. Harris furnished 
the author with certain corrobatory tradi- 
tional evidence, which is herewith given. 
That it did occur was not only traditional in 
the Harris family but also in others. 
The writer's grandmother, Mrs. Elizabeth 
(Thomas) Egle, tarried when a child of fif- 
teen at John Harris', her father then being 
on his way from Philadelphia to his home 
at his mill on the Yellow Breeches. John 
Harris, the founder, in the course of conver- 
sation with her father alluded to the mul- 
berry tree and the rude inclosure of the 
graves at its foot, and distinctly remembers 
then hearing the story in detail which we 
have given. 

Robert Harris, a grandson of the Indian 
trader, stated it as a fact in which he be- 
lieved. According to a memorandum, made 
in his lifetime, he stated that a band of In- 
dians came to the house of his grandfather 
and demanded rum. He saw that the}' were 
intoxicated, and he feared mischief if he 
gave them more rum. They became en- 
raged and tied him to the tree for burning. 
The alarm was given, and Indians from the 






\ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



11 



opposite side of the river came and after a 
struggle released him. 

Early Assessment Lists. 

North End of Paxtang—1750. 

John Harris, 200 a.; James Mitchell, 50 a.; 
Widow Forster, 100 a.; James McNight, 
Moses Dickey, 100 a.; Thomas McCarter 
[McArthur], 100 a.; Samuel Martin, 100 a.'; 
Widow Kerr, 100 a.; Thos. Simpson, 100 a.; 
Robert Montgomery, 100 a.; Widow Farris, 
25 a.; James Alcorn, 200 a.; James Pollock 
[Polk], 40 a.; James Reed, 100 a.; James 
Armstrong, 200 a.; Samuel Brice, 100 a.; 
Robert Potter, 100 a.; James Potter, 100 a.; 
■William Bell, 100 a.; John Lee, 100 a.; 
Joseph Davis, 30 a,; John Carson, 300 a.; 
Thomas Forster, Esq., 100 a.; Widow Whit- 
ley, 50 a.; Samuel Simpson, 100 a.; Arthur 
Forster, 100 a.; Thomas Elder, 100 a.; An- 
drew Caldwell, 50 a.; William Chambers, 
80 a.; William Cochran, 100 a.; William 
Brown, 100 a.; Francis Johnston, 50 a.; 
James Graham, 100 a.; Widow Armstrong, 
100 a.; William Barnett, 50 a.; Robert 
Curry, 40 a.; Stephen Gambel, 100 a.; John 
Barnett, 50 a.; William Barnett, Jr., 40 
a.; John Wiggins, 100 a.; David Pattern, 
1 00 a.; William McMullen, 100 a.; Francis 
Smith, 10 a.; John Cavet, 100 a.; James Gil- 
christ, 100 a.; Samuel 'Hunter, 100 a.; Will- 
iam Armstrong, Matthew Cowden, 100 a.; 
John Bell, 100 a.; Richard Cavet, 100 a.; 
John Thompson, 100 a.; James Wilson, 50 
a.; John Caldwell, 100 a.; Andrew Cochran, 
100 a.; James Toland, 20 a.; John Roop, 30 
a.; John Montgomery, 50 a.; Joseph Roop, 
100 a.; Robert Dougal, 100 a.; Thomas Stur- 
geon, 100 a.; Andrew Stewart, 100 a.; George 
Gillespy,50a.; William Hines, 100 a.; Andrew 
Stephen, 200 a.; Alex. Johnston, 40 a.; Rob- 
ert Chambers, 100 a.; John Dougherty (car- 
penter), John Scott, 100 a.; John Cochran, 
100 a,; Samuel Cunningham, 30 a.; Jeremiah 
Sturgeon, 100 a.; Francis Loock, John Wile}', 
20 a.; Widow Wiley, 100 a.; Robert Smith, 
100 a.; John Smith, George Bell, 50 a.; Thos. 
Larrimore, 40 a.; Noah Copley (blacksmith), 
John Chambers, 50 a.; Hugh McCormick, 
2u0 a.; David Diney (taylor), William Thorn, 
100 a.; John Johnston, 100 a.; James Eackin, 
20 a.; Samuel Gambel, 100 a.; Thomas Arm- 
strong, 50 a.; John Snoddy 30 a.; Alexander 
McHarge, 50 a. Collectors for ye north end of 
Paxtown 1750 — Thomas Simpson, William 
Bell. Freemen — George Roop, James Means, 



Adam Means, Robert Reed, Joseph Kelso, 
John Steel, William Bell, Oliver Jeens, James 
Micheltree, Robert Delap. 

Narroivs of Paxtang — 1751. 

Widow_Murrav , Robert Armstrong, John 
A r mstr o h g ,~~ Th o in a s Gaston, William Fors- 
ter, Mr. Robert Armstrong, Thomas Clark, 
John McKennedy, Robert -Clark, Thomas 
Adams, Albert Adams, John Watt, William 
Baskins, Geoge Wells, Francis Glass, George 
Clark, John Mitcheltree, Francis Baskins 
(trader), John Clark, James Reed, James 
English, John Gevens, James Baskins, 
Thomas McKee, John Kelton. Freemen — 
Charles Williams, John Lee (trader). — John 
Kelton, Collector. 

West Side of Paxtang — 1751. 

William Thorn, Hugh Montgomery, Rob- 
ert Dugan, Thomas Sturgeon, John Johnson, 
Widow Forster, James McKnight, John 
Harris, James Reed, James Armstrong, Rob- 
ert Chambers, John Davis, William Ta, 
James Harris, David Carson, William Mc- 
Calley, James Toland, Andrew Stephen, 
John Cochran, Alexander Johnson, Thomas 
Forster, Esq., James Eaken, James Allcorn, 
Thomas Simpson, Widow Kerr, James Polke, 
James Potts, George Gillespie, Alex. McCay, 
John Cavet, Andrew Caldwell, Patrick Gil- 
lespie, John Scott, Samuel Price, Jeremiah 
Sturgeon, Robert Montgomery, John Cald- 
well, Robert Smith, Joseph White, John 
Neal, John Dougherty, George Gabriel, John 
Carson, Samuel Hunter, Widow Armstrong, 
John Daley, Samuel Simpson, Samuel Mar- 
tin, Thomas McArthur, James Collier, 
Thomas Laniard, Andrew Stuart, William 
Barnet, Samuel Gamble, Alexander Sanders, 
Robert Currey, Moses Wain, John Ross, Jo- 
seph Ross, John Smith, James Thorn, Will- 
iam Thorn, Widow Wiley, William Arm- 
strong, William Calhoun, Thomas McCor- 
mick, John Wiggins, John Wiley, John 
Schultz, Andrew Cochran, Robert Potts, 
James Gilchrist. — William Thorn, Col- 
lector. 

South End of Paxtang — 1751. 

William Kirkpatrick, Thomas King, 
Thomas Mayes, William Steel, Robert Tay- 
lor, Hugh Stuart; Peter Fleming, John 
Shields, Henry Renick, John Gray, William 
Harris, Richard McClure, John Willson, 
William Willson, Oliver Wiley, Thomas 
King, Samuel Galbraith, Martin Shults, 



12 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



David Shields, Moses Dickey, Henry Mc- 
Kinney, Hattman Seller, Valentine Starn, 
Jonas Lerue, Thomas Dugan, Widow Brown, 
Alex. Brown, James Lusk, John Means, An- 
drew Hanna, George Sheets, Timothy Mc- 
Knight, William Sharp, Henry McElroy, 
John Johnston, Andrew Johnson, Charles 
Gordan, John Montgomery, Timothy Shaw, 
Robert Wright, Matthew Gordan, Andrew 
Husten, Samuel Woods, John Welsh, Alex- 
ander White, Jqhn_ Murra y, James Mc- 
Knight, Francis ■^Johnson, James Willson. 
Freemen — William Dickey, Patrick McKin- 
ney. — Jacob Sheets, Collector. 

Return of Paxtavg — 1756. 

William McCord, 100 a.; Patrick Mont- 
gomery, 100 a.; Thomas Renick (smith), 200 
a.; Samuel Galbraith (Hugh Davis' land), 
400 a.; Robert Morrison, Andrew Lykens, 
Robert Jones, Aaron Hine, Valentine Starn 
(Peter Gardner's land), 400 a.; Michael Teph- 
(John Potts' land), 200 a,; Crisley Swarts, 
200 a.; Jonas Lerue, 200 a.; Richard Fulton, 
175 a.; John Kerr, William Cummens (ye 
Secretary's land), 200 a.; Adam Torrance, 
John Harris, 400 a.; Thomas Chambers, 70 
a.; John Bell, 100 a.; William Steel, 100 a.; 
James Smith, 100 a.; James Thorn, 100 a.; 
Hugh McClay, 160 a.; James Collard, 200 a.; 
George Alexander, 100 a.; George King (ye 
land of Dr. Reker's), 400 a.; Frederick Fogle, 
John Shield, 200 a.; John Moore, Alexander 
McClure, 200 a.; Richard McClure, 200 a.; 
James Lusk, 150 a.; Robert Sterret, 100 a.;- 
James Fitzgerald (ye land of Joseph Randies), 
200 a.; James Boyle, 150 a.; James William- 
son, 60 a.; Thomas Dugal, 200 a.; William 
Willson, 200 a.; Jacob Sheets (smith), 100 a.; 
Stophel Monts (ye land Wil'm Kirkpatrick), 
150 a.; William McClintock, 100 a.; Joseph 
Sherer, 120 a.; John Montgomery, 100 a.; 
Michael Graham, 150 a.; Timothy Shaw, 100 
a.; Edward Sharp, 100 a.; Henry Renick, 150 
a.; Thomas McCord, John Wiilson; Jr., 200 
a.; Thomas McCarter [McArthur], 100 a.; 
William Sharp, 100 a.; David Sheilds, 120 a.; 
Henry McKiney, 100 a.; Robert Gray, 50 a.; 
Timothy McKnight, 100 a.; William Carson, 
50 a.; Hugh Stuart, 200 a.; John Means, 50 
a.; James Alexander, Thomas King, Sr., 100 
a.; Andrew Hannah, 100 a.; William Kirk- 
patrick, 200 a.; Edward King, 50 a.; Thomas 
King, Jr., 100 a.; Philip Fisher, 50 a.; David 
Walker, 50 a.; Frederick Foster, 80 a.; Will- 
iam Hannah, 100 a.; Moses Dickey (mill- 
wright), 200 a.; Thomas Rutherford, 150 a.; 



Michael Whitley (shoemaker), William Kerr, 
100 a.; James Pollock, 50 a.; Jeremiah Stur- 
geon, 100 a.; James Armstrong (saddler), 50 
a.; Jacob Roop, 199 a.; Thomas Armstrong, 
50 a.; James Huston, 100 a.; Samuel Forgue, 
James Reed, 60 a.; Samuel Simpson (black- 
smith), 150 a.; John Johnston (shoemaker), 
100 a.; Thomas Simpson (smith),' 100 a.; Will- 
iam Kelso, Stephen Gamble, 50 a.; William 
McMullen, 50 a.; John Cashon, 50 a.; John 
Gray, 100 a.; Walter Bell, John Wilson, Sr., 
200 a.; Jacob Lantz, 100 a.; George Sheets, 
200 a.; Samuel Martin, 250 a.; James Kil- 
creest, 50 a.; Andrew Huston, 100 a.; Alex- 
ander Johnston (little), Thos. Forster, Esq., 
200 a.; Robt. Potts, 100 a.; George Gillespy, 
100 a.; John Carson, 300 a.; To Edgel's Es- 
tate, 300 a.; Rudy Herr's land, 160 a.; The 
Proprietor's land, 1000 a.; Samuel Hunter, 
100 a.; Arthur Simpson, Robert Armstrong, 
100 a.; Denis Dougherty, Neal McGlaughlin, 
James Wallace, 200 a.; Andrew Stephen, 100 
a.; William Calhoon, 10 a.; James Thorn, 
100 a.; John Cochran, 30 a.: Patrick Gillespy, 
100 a.; Archibald McCollogh (ye land Jas. 
Wilson's), 50 a.; Philip Kinder, Jacob Sider 
(the land Henry Deyarmond's), 100 a.; John 
Montgomery (youirgest), 60 a.; William 
Chambers, 100 a.; Joseph White, 50 a.; John 
Smith, 100 a.; John Ross, 100 a,; James 
MacKnight, 50 a.; Andrew Caldwell, 100 a.; 
William Wallace, 60 a.; John Barnett, 50 
a.; William Barnett (black), 50 a.; William 
Barnett (white), 20 a.; David Patten, 200 a.; 
Thomas McCormick, 200 a.; Robert Gilchrist, 
222 a.; William Bell, 100 a.; Matthew Cow- 
den, 200 a.; Robert Taylor, 400 a.; Matthew 
Brown, 100 a.; Catherine Hams, 100 a.; 
Thos. Mays, 100 a.; Thos. Alexander (school- 
ing ter), John Gilchrist (smith), 240 a.; James 
Calhoun, 100 a.; William Woods, 40 a.; 
Robert Carson, 30 a.; Henry Harley (ye land 
Peter Miller's), 150 a.; Henry Sharp, 100 a.; 
William McKnight, 100 a.; John McCollom 
(ye land John Nives), 150 a.; David English, 
100 a.; Thos. Sturgeon, 150 a.; Andrew 
Stuart, 100 a.; Robert Stephen, 20 a.; John 
Wiley, 100 a.; John Neil, 50 a.; Alex. John- 
ston (big Alick), 100 a.; William Armstrong, 
John Cavet, 100 a.; John Johnston, 100 a.; 
James Gayly, 50 a.; Henry MacElroy, 100 a.; 
John Johnston (whitelocks), 100 a.; John 
Montgomery (Patrick's son), 50 a.; Robert 
Heslat, 50 a.; John McKeever, 50 a.; John 
Jameson, 100 a.; Robert Curry, 150 a.; Alex. 
Meharg, 50 a.; Robert Wright, 100 a.; Will- 
iam McClure, Joseph Wilson, 50 a.; Alex. 



\ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



13 



Mahon (ye land Thos. Forster's). Land 
Holders — All these the time was so short, I 
had not time to go to their houses, but 
they're all land holders. John Wiggins, 
James Thorn, Joseph Ross, James Potts, 
Widow Cavet, Moses Swan, George Clark, 
John Ross, Robt. Montgomery, Widow 
Wiley, John Scott, Hugh McCormick. 
Widows — Widow Cunningham, 50 a.; Widow 
Calhoun, 100 a.; Widow Smith, 100 a.; 
Widow MeKnight, 50 a. Fled from ye In- 
dians — Anthony Thompson, Barney Tolan, 
Hugh Gibson, Michael Gibson, John Cham- 
bers, Alexand er M urray, John Young, 
James Miller , James Murray. Freemen — 
Joseph McCord, "mrhate to Patrick Mont- 
gomery; Daniel Lindley,at Valentine Sturn's; 
Alexander Caldwell, at Thomas Chambers' ; 
John Sterling, Samuel Steel, at William 
Steel's ; Thos. Mays, Jr., at Thos. Mays' ; 
William Simpson, Robert Barkley, at John 
Shields'; John Collier, at his father's; Jere- 
miah Brandon, at George Ellis'; Charles 
McKillip, at Richard McClure's ; Phillip 
Donnelly, at Valentine Sturn's ; James Black, 
at Widow Boal's ; Patrick McGranahan, at 
Jacob Awl's; Jacob Awl (tanner), Richard 
Carson, at John Carson'* ; Patrick Hodgon,' 
John Patrick, at Andrew Stewart's; Jonathan 
Cummins, at John Harris'; Charles McGran- 
ahan, John Forster, at Justice Forster's; 
James Eakins, Jr., William Cowden, at 
Matt. Cowden's; John Simpson, at Thos. 
Simpson's ; Moses Dickey, Jr., John Mont- 
gomery, at his father's ; Robt. Montgomery, 
at John his father's; Robert Fruit, at Andrew 
Huston's ; Walter Clark, Geo. Clark's son ; 
William McClure, at Oliver Wiley's ; Luke 
McCool, an old man at Thos. Dugan's. Re- 
fused to give their Return {Covenanter^r- 
Alexander Brown, James Brown, Ben. 
Brown, William Brown, John Caldwell, 
James Eakin, Peter Corbit, Geo. Fisher, one 
nager. — Hugh Stuart, Collector. 

Paxtang—1758. 

James Armstrong, Jacob Awl, James Arm- 
strong (tenant), John Albright, Thomas 
Alexander, William Armstrong, Thomas 
Allen, James Alexander, Thomas Arm- 
strong, George Alexander, Robert Britwell, 
Widow Boyd, Benjamin Brown, Martin 
Brown, James Brown, Alex. Brown, William 
Brown, John Bell, John Bell (tenant), Wal- 
ter Bell, Samuel Brice, William Bell, John 
Barnett, William Barnett, Sr., William Bar- 
nett, Jr., Richard Carson, James Collard, 



James Calhoun, John Carson, William Car- 
son, Michael Cassel and Michael Casel, Jr., 
John Chambers, William Chambers, Andrew 
Chaeren (?), Peter Eaby, William Chambers, 
John Caldwell, Martin Cowden,Widow Coch- 
ran, John Cochran, George Clark, John Cavet, 
John Chambers, Andrew Caldwell, William 
Calhoun, James Cilley, John Carson, Moses 
Dickey, Thomas Dockham, Rev. John Elder, 
James Ekins, Jr., David English, Robert 
Fruit, Thomas Forster, Esq., Richard Fulton, 
Frederick Foster, George Fisher, Samuel 
Galbraith, George Gross, Robert Gray,- 
Michael Graham, George Gray, John Gray, 
Patrick Gillespy, George Gillespy, John 
Harris, Andrew Huston, William Hannah, 
Widow Hannah, Widow Harris, Samuel 
Hunter, Robert Haslet, John Johnston, 
Robert Jones, John Johnston, Alexander 
Johnston, Philip Kinter, Edward King, 
Thomas King, Sr., Thomas King, William 
Killpatrick, William Kerr, Robert Killcreese, 
James Killcreese, John Killcreese, John Kis- 
ler, (Landlord's Part), John Lukins, James 
Lisk, Jonas Lerue, Samuel Laney, Henry 
McSeney, Richard McClure, William Mc- 
Clure, Thomas Mays, Widow MeKnight, 
Hugh McGillap, John Means, f 1 Mar- 

tin, Tinnle MeKnight, Stofel 
Montgomery, William McMul" 
Caver, John Montgomery, Sr., o^.. 
Chulen, William MeKnight, Alexander Mc- 
Clure, Alexander Maugham, Robert Mont- 
gomery, John Montgomery, Thomas Mc- 
Arthur, Hugh McCormick, Alex. Murry, 
Patrick Montgomery, Robert Montgomery, 
Alexander McHort, John Neal, William 
Nicholson, Robert Potts, David Patten, 
Thomas Rutherford, James Re ed, Henry 
Renick, Jacob Roop, John Ross, Joseph 
Ross, Timothy Shaw, Thomas Simpson, 
Samuel Simpson, William Steel, James 
Smith, Robert Stuart, Nicholas Stugh, Hugh 
Stuart, John Shield, David Shield, George 
Sheets, Henry Sharp, Edward Sharp, Will- 
iam Sharp, Joseph Sherer, Frederick 
Swicker, Jeremiah Sturgeon, Andrew 
Stuart, Andrew Stephen, James Sloan, John 
Smith, Widow Smith, Christian Swartz, John 
Steel, Valentine Starn, Thomas Sturgeon, 
John Scott, Michael Tafer, Thomas James 
and William James, Adam Torence, Will- 
iam Thorne, James Thorne, James Will- 
iamson, William Willson, John Willson, 
Jr., Joseph Willson, Joshua White, Robert 
Wright, Robert Whitley, Thomas Willey, 
James Wallace, John Wright, Widow Wil- 



14 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



ley, David Walker, James Woodside. Free- 
men — William Boggs, Isaac Bell, James Bell, 
John Bell, Robert Cochran, William Cow- 
den, John Cowden, John Conrad, Arthur 
Cuningham, Alexander Diver, William 
Davis, Andrew Eakius, Robert Eakins, Will- 
iam Gibbons, Joseph Gray, John Hannah, 
Daniel . Linwell, Thomas Little, Thomas 
Mays, Charles McCannahan, William Mc- 
Cardney, Andrew McCollum, Thomas Mc- 
Arthur, Thomas McCord, William Mont- 
gomery, Nathaniel Paul, Robert Renick, 
John Rutherford, John Sterling, Samuel 
Steel, George Sheets, William Smith, David 
Sterrett, Robert Fruit, Thomas Kennedy. 

Paxtang Continental Tax — 1779. 

John Alleman, Stophel Alleman, Conrad 
Alleman, Chrisley Alleman, John Arm- 
strong, John Achia, Jacob All, Jacob B. 
Brand, George Bennett, Conroad Burghough, 
John Bowman, William Brown, John Bar- 
nett, John Barnett, Sr., Andrew Berryhill, 
Alexander Berryhill, William Boyd, Thomas 
Bell, Peter Bobb, William Bell, Thomas Bra- 
man, Henry Bolls, Peter Brener, John Boyer, 
James Burd, John Bowman (weaver), Bear- 
foot Brunson, Jacob Barkley, Casper Byerley, 
Felty Beaker, Philip Brown, Conroad Bobb, 
J f}m Barris, Widow Boggs, John Buck, John 
Boughman, Sam Byers, John Brand, Max'll 
Chambers, Robert and Roland Chambers, 
Hugh Crocket, George Consort, Robert Cald- 
well, John Cavits, William Calhoon, John 
Chambers, William Cochran, James Coch- 
ran, Widow Caldwell, Hugh Cunningham, 
John Clendining, William Carson, Cornals 
Cox, Samuel Clemins, John Cline, James 
Cogley, John Cogley, James Crouch, Land 
sold bj r Carson, James Collier, John Clark, 
Frederick Cassel, Michael Cassel, George 
Carson, Richard Carson, Daniel Cooper, 
John Cassel, Matthew Calhoon, Samuel 
Cochran and James Sherer, James Cow- 
den, John Cambel, James Cavit, Archi- 
bald Cambel, Philip Crinar, James Dun- 
can, Robert Duglas, George Dickson, 
William Dickey & Porter, Peter Duffey, 
Christian Demmey, John Doneley, John Din- 
sey, John Davis, Rev. John Elder, Robert 
Elder, John Elder, Joshua Elder, John Elder, 
Jr., Adam Eckert, Stophel Earnist, Abraham 
Eagle, Joseph Flora, Jr., George Facklan, 
John Foster, John Fritz, Phillip Fisher, John 
Flackameer, Joseph Fultain, Bernard Frid- 
ley, George Fridle}', Joseph Flora, Sr., Vsn- 
del Fachlar, Frederick Foster, Tames Fin- 



ney, John Garber, John Gilcrist, Esq., John 
Gallaher, George Gray & Joseph, John Gau- 
day, William Gibbins, John Graham, John 
Gilcrist, John Gray, Joseph Gregg, Robert 
Gilcrist, Joseph Hutchinson, Samuel Hutch- 
inson, Andrew Huston, John Hatfield, Jo- 
seph Hufman, William Hetrick, Patrick 
Heaney, Henry Humbarger, John Hilton, 
Jacob Haldiman, John Harsha, John Harris, 
James Harris, Martin Houser, Tice H oove 
Patrick Hogan, Alexander Hetherton, John 
Hersha, Alexander Johnson, John Jamison, 
Peter Isonhaver, James Johnson, Joseph 
Ervin, William Kerr, Thomas King, Will- 
iam Keays, John Kinsley, William Kelso, 
Jacob Kerr, Joseph Keller, John Kis- 
nor. Adam Kitchmiller, Will'm Kirkpat- 
rick, Edward King, John Little, John 
Larkey, Widow Lider, Patrick Lusk, Adam 
Lampart. Michael Lyms, Francis and George 
Lerue, Jacob Lymes, John Maxwell, John 
Means, Alexander McHafgue, William Mc~ 
Millen, George McMillen, William McRob- 
erts, John McElhenney, Thomas McCormick, 
Robert Montgomery, Jacob Millar, Hugh 
Montgomery, John Matthews, John Meader, 
David Montgomery, James McKee, John 
Moor, Thomas Miller, George Millar, James 
McCoard, Jonathan McClure, Rowan Mc- 
Clure, Alexander McClure, Richard Mc- 
Clure, John Mumma, Thomas Murray, 
James Mahan, William McClure, Jacob Mil- 
lar, John McKeary, Rev. Joseph Montgom- 
ery, William Montgomery, William McClan- 
ahan, Joseph Mark, John and James Mc- 
Kinney, Robert McWhorter, Thomas McAr- 
thur, Jg^ijilurra)', Andrew McClure, Robert 
Neel, Francis Nieckel (col.), Eliab Neagley, 
Widow Nab, George Heviland, John Noop, 
Abraham Nidighj Christian • Paige, Michael 
Peasinger, David Paton, Michael Pitner 
(Bitner), John Parthimar, Stephen Poor- 
man, George Pancake, John Postlethwaite, 
Jacob Poorman, Jacob Peck, George Page, 
Peter Pancake, George Pile, Felty I 'i> 
cake, Samuel Rutherford, Simeon Rear- 
don, Hugh Robertson, Paul Randolph, 
James Rutherford, George Reniear, John 
Roop. Jacob Roop, Sr., Jacob Roop, Widow 
Renick, Capt. John Rutherford, David 
Ritchey, Michael Smith, Jacob Stricklar, 
Jacob Springer, Henry Stoner, John Steel, 
George Shanklin,William Simonton,William 
Swan, Richard Swan, Frederick Switser, 
Matthew Smith, Esq., George Shoop, Lar- 
rence Smith, Stophel Soop, Jeremiah Stur- 
geon, George Sheets, Andrew Stewart and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



15 



Charles, Samuel Simpson, Sr., Joseph Simp- 
son, Samuel Simpson, Jr., William Smith, Sto- 
phel Smith, Felty Snider, Andrew and Zach. 
Stephen, Hugh Stephen, Felty Spangler, 
Jacob Smith, Jacob Siders, Michael Sheaver, 
Michael Smith, Widow Shell's place, Joseph 
Shaw, Barnard Soop, Petter Smith, Elijah 
Stewart, George Sheets, Hugh Stewart, Leon- 
ard Sheets, John Shoemaker, Petter Shearer, 
Andrew Smith, Mary and Joseph Smith, 
Jacob Shafner, Robert Smith, David Toot, 
George Tevibaugh, Christley Temey, John 
Thompson, George Williams, Hugh Ray, 
Robert Wiley, John Wiggins, Josiah White, 
Leonard Wallower, Thomas Wiley, Joseph 
Wilson, Jr., Robert Whitehill, Mathias Win- 
agel, James Wallas, John Winderley, Samuel 
Wiley, John Wilson, Sr., John Wilson, Jr., 
Jr., John Wilson, Jr., Alexander Wilson, Jo- 
seph Wilson, Sr., Joseph Wilson, Jr., Abner 
Wickersham, Hugh White, Widow Whitley, 
Moses Vance, Conrad Yoance. 

Middletown—1779. 

Mark Snider, Christian King, Daniel 
Con, Peter Shuster, John Snider, George 
Lowman, Felty Welker, Abraham Tarr, 
Henry Davis, Henry McCan, John Len- 
ning, Peter Richart, John Myers, Henry 
Shaffner, Henry Harris, Martain Hemperley, 
Nicolas Castle, George Metsker, Philip Graft, 
George Fry, Christian Spayd,Ludwick Hem- 
perley, Abraham Gross, Daniel Huffman' 
Dr. Robert Kenedy, Jacob Snider, Henry 
Millar, Frederick Zebernick, John Mitcher, 
John Bacenstose, John Holaback, John De- 
france, Michael Gross, Conrad Wolfley, Will- 
iam Walls, Jacob King, Thomas and Will- 
iam Crabb, Alexander Jamison, Philip 
Shockey, Christian Shertz, Adam Means, 
George Gross, Patrick Scott, Samuel Parks, 
Trlbmas^Minshall, David McClure, Daniel 
Dowdle, Thomas and Henry Moor, Peter 
Millar, Adam Millar, George Aman, David 
Atley, Philip Parthemore, Christian Hep- 
peck, Paul Hemperley, Christopher Sea- 
baugh, Henry Myers, Samuel Seratzy, Philip 
Etley, Frederick Hubley, William Crabb. 
Young Men — Conrad Toot, Joseph Barnett, 
William Cowden, James Spence, Robert 
Douglas, Anthoney Whikerel, John Miller 
(weaver), W T illiam Wilson, John Fleming, 
John Cochran, John Whitehill, Henry Bit- 
ner, Richard Hughs, John Darby, John 
Boyd, William Wright, Robert Elder, 
Thomas Strahan, JamesCurrey, John Baird, 
Barnard Fridley,' JoEf Millar, George 



Smith, William Lochery, Adam Ritter, 
Frederick Overlander, William Witner, John 
Millar (stonecutter), Emanuel Bollinger, Mi- 
chael Gross, David Shaw, Matthew Gilchrist, 
James Wiggins, Melhar Millar, Charles Mc- 
Coy, Hugh McLay, Lodwick Dagon, Henry 
Alleman, John Page, John Fisher, Mathias 
Winagel (saddler), Stephen Poorman, Robert 
Clark, William Murray. Mungo Linsey, 
Abraham "Branson, William Stewart, Jacob 
Sider, David Toot, John Parks, Robert Gray, 
Thomas Murray, Peter Pancake, John Mc- 
Knighton, John Shearer, John Stoner, Sam- 
uel Smith, Robert Marshall, Jacob Fridley, 
John McCaghan, Andrew Berreyhill, George 
Woods, Nicholas Nagle. 

Upper Paxtang — 1779. 

Robert Armstrong, Sr., Robt. Armstrong, 
Jr., William Ayers, Richard Allison, Peter 
Brown, William Bell, John Bell, Sr., John 
Bell, Jr., JosepTTBrown, John "Brown, James 
Birney, Felty Brough, Widow Baskin, Will- 
iam Boyce, James Buchanan, James Bell, 
Thomas Black, James Black, Dan Black, 
Robert Boyd, Thos. Barnett, Robert Boyd 

(stlTTer), Hugh Calhoon, Campbell, 

George Clark, John Chambers, Peter Corbit, 
John Cochran, William Campbell, Samuel 
Cochran, Joseph Colligan, James C\. k, 
Robert Crawford, John Colligan, John Dun- 
can, John Dice, David Davis, Jacob Eyman, 
John Elder, Adam Eckard, Stephen Forster, 
William Forster, William Foulks, James 
Forster, Conrad Fry, John Garber, Thos. 
Gallagher, Adam Gartner, Michael Garber, 
John Gilmore, Thomas George, Alexander 
George, Alexander Givins, William Gonow, 
Larry Hatton, Michael Herman, Anthony 
Hoone, George Holmes, Marcus Hulings, John 
Hatfield, Isaiah Jones, Isaac Jones, David 
Ireland, William Johnston, Widow Kess- 
ler, John Kinter, Thomas Kearns, William 
Kennedy, John Kays, William Linsey, James 
Leonard, Patt Lafferty, Joseph Little, Henry 
Little, Henry Leek, Henry McCloskey, Abra- 
ham Monney, Robert McGill, Patrick Mc- 
Elhare, John Mellan, Patt Martin, John 
Meetch, Robert McCord, James McCall, John 
McFadden, James Murray, John Mordock, 
Joseph McETrafh, Arcli'd Murray, Widow 
Minsker, Widow McComb, John Murray, 
David McCracken, James McTSTanYara," Mar- 
tin Newbecker, Thos. Oarim, Sam'l Plough, 
Malachi Powell, Aaron Pecker, James Pea- 
cock, John Ryan, Sr., John Richmond, Alex- 
ander Randels, John Ringler, John Ryan, Jr. 



\\ 



16 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Conrad Rhoads, William Smith, Joseph and 
George Straw, Conrad Smith, Jacob Striker, 
Ludwick Shellman, Patt Sufferin, Thos. Stur- 
geon, Peter Snagerty, Michael Stiver, Robert 
Smith, John Simpson, Alexander Spear, 
James Sloane, George Simmons, John Taylor, 
Samuel Taylor, George Taylor, Jacob Tin- 
dorff, John Thomas, William Thompson, 
Thos. Thompson, Henry Vanderbach, Robert 
Walker, James Walker, Hugh Watt, Michael 
Yanelet. Freemen — John Snagerty. John 
Goldenberry, George Simmers, Herman Leek, 
Conrad Leek, Geo. Bell, Geo. Cochran, Peter 
Sturgeon, Philip Newbecker, Philip Tinturtf, 
Cristley Eyman, Jacob Eyman, John Ayres, 
John Boyce, James Spear, Henry Taylor, 
Isaiah Winn. Non-Resident Land-owners — 
Jacob Rizet, Peter Landish, Ruben Hains, 
John Cline, James Tillman, John Leadick, 
George Fry, John Cline, Bulls Land, Isaiah 
Jones, Peter Pelley, Alexander Bartram, 
Timothy Mattlack, John Flora, John 
Mumma, Person Harshaw, Bertram Gal- 
braith, Robert Neal, Mich'l Herman, Mc- 
Clure's land, Dinnis Dougherty, John Meetcli, 
Joseph Little, Widow Duncan, Widow Scot, 
Frederick Humble, Jacob Waggoner, Cris- 
tian Hattocks. 

.dh Upper District, Wiconisco — 1779. 

John Boashart, Benjamin Buffing ton, Lud- 
wick Bretz, Stephen Bend, Charles Barger,Cut- 
lip Cline, Widow Cline, Widow Cooper, Philip 
Clinger, John Coleman, Michael Divler, Mat- 
thias Divler, John Didde, Joel Free, Anthony 
Fralick, George Fight, Peter Grubb, Peter 
Huffman, Nicholas Huffman, John Huff- 
man, Jacob Herman, David Herman, Henry 
Haynes, Peter Heckart, Abraham Jury, Sam- 
uel Jury, William Ingram, Adam King, 
Stophel Lark, Daniel Leman, Jacob Mitz, 
John Miller, John Motter, John Myers, George 
Minnich, Nicholas Meek, Abram Neighbour, 
Geo. Nigla, Henry Omholtz, Joseph Philips, 
Richard Peters, John Powell, Jacob Bickel, 
William Rider, John Rider, Philip Ros- 
coulp, George Riddle, George Supe, Yost 
Stiver, Michal Salady, Fitter Stonebreaker, 
Stophel Shaesty, John Sheesly, Jacob 
Sheesly, Jacob Shotts, Linord Snider, Jacob 
Smith, Lodwick Shotts, Michael Shadel, 
George Seal, John Salady, Zacheus Sponing- 
berry, Abraham Snider, Christian Snoak, 
Michael Titrich, James Woodside, Martin 
Weaver, Henry Wolf, Adam Wertz, Jacob 
Weaver, Henry Werfel, Peter Woobery, An- 
drew Yeager, The Rev. Mr. Enderline. Free- 



men — Ludiwick Shotts, Jonathan Woodside, 
John Philips, John Herman, William Arma- 
gost, Jacob Easterly. 

Located Tracts, Wiconisco — 1779. 

George Free, James Baeham, Nicholas 
Miller, Henry Winover, Abraham Riggey, 
Andrew Boggs, Stophel Martin, Crawford's 
land, Peter Isk, Abraham Reggey, John 
Shough, Isaac Keller, Frederick Stone- 
breaker, Martin Lowman, Thos. Car- 
michael, Geo. Eakard, Simeon Snider, 
Laudis Winger, Arthur Tikert, Patt 
Work, Frederick Sleigh, Caleb Day, Simeon 
Snider and Groff, Aaron Levi, Bertram Gal- 
braith, Daniel Williams, Felt}' Overlady, 
Michael Miller, Jacob Whitmore, William 
Poor, George Fry, John Cline, John Meek- 
land, Philip DeHaas, Martin Cryder, Michael 
Groscolp, Simeon Brand, 'Frederick Deigh, 
Henry Wails, Sam. Sleight, Levi Simeon, 
Doctor Light, John Clendinin, George Free, 
John Didde, George Hawk, Blacher's land, 
Daniel Wolf, Simeon Snider, Daniel Mawer, 
Geo. Shaddle, Cristley Snider, Phipil Reel, 
Michal Welker, Henry Minsler, Jacob Shaver, 
John Hackard, Jacob Covel, Andrew Rigla. 



West End of Berry— 1756. 

Adam Baum, Matthew Laird, William 
Spencer, Hugh Black, Thomas Black, James 
Ireland, John Laird, Adam Walker, Robert 
Taylor, William Breden, David Campbell, 
James Russell, Moses Patterson, John Cook, 
John Crockett, John Penelton, William 
Thompson, Lawrence McGill, Isaac Penel- 
ton, Moses Campbell, James Willey, William 
Sterrett, Samuel Murray, Robert Ramsey, 
James Walker, James Willson, William Mc- 
Cobb, William Drennan, James Semple, 
Thomas Park, Robert Bradshaw, Matthew 
Willson, Joseph Candor, Moses Willson, 
Stophel Shoop, Alexander Fleck, Adam 
Waggoner, James Carothers, Peter Barsh, 
John Singer, Jacob Couts, Dewalt Baker, 
Simon Singer, George Bombaugh, Henry 
Corber, Anthony Weirick, Peter Spengler, 
Peter Grossglas, David Etley, Edward Mar- 
tin, John Tice, John Fleming, George Beaver, 
Francis Newcomer, Henry Hart, Jacob Al- 
bright, Max Spidle, Peter Kinder, James 
Chambers, Andrew Robinson, James Clark, 
Thomas Hall, Robert Willson, John Carr, 
John Vanlear, James McOoye, Samuel Shaw, 
Robert Carothers, John Weir, Hugh Caroth- 
ers, Andrew Weir, George Wedaberger, Rob- 





WILLIAM AY RES. 



GEN. JOHN KEAN. 




ROBEI 



VS 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



19 



ert Armstrong, Andrew Hershey, John Mul- 
len, Martin Brand, Ulry Hipsher, James 
Russell, Jacob Bromek. Freemen — James 
Swaty, James Harris, Robert Brety, Thomas 
Care, John Bowman, John Clark, Robert 
McKee, James Vanleer, James Henry, James 
McCormick, Mr. Hipsher's stepson, one Ken- 
nedy at James Cander's, William Fomly. 

East Side of Berry— 1758. 

Robert Allison, Jacob Albright, Adam 
Burckholder, John Bowman, Joseph Berry- 
hill (weaver), Robert Boyd, William Boyd, 
Wendel Bow, John Campbell (Duncan's es- 
tate), John Campbell (McCord's land), James 
Campbell, Vincent Cooper, Michael Cassell, 
John Chestnut, Charles Clark, John Camp- 
bell, Anthony Carman, John Duncan, Leon- 
ard Deiuinger. Thomas Eakin, Nicholas 
Ebert, John Early, John Espy, George Espy, 
William Espy, Ludwick Elser, David Fos- 
ter, Robert Foster, Widow Foster, James 
Foster, Melchoir Flenckpow, Henry Freek, 
Philip Fishburn, John Gourly, Jacob Grove, 
Frederick Hummel, John Kay, Anthony 
Hemperly, George Henry, Patrick Hay, 
Robert Hay, Hugh Hay, Widow Hall, John 
Hall, David Johnson, Adam Kettering, Felty 
Kettering, John Keesemer, Patrick Kelly, 
George Kelly, Stophel Liverton, Jacob Long- 
necker, Jacob Leman, John Logan, Thomas 
Logan, Felix Landis, Jr., Frederick Morral, 
John Montgomery, David Mitchel, Wendel 
Minick, Andrew Moor, William Moor, John 
Moor, John Maybane, John Maybane, Jr., 
Jacob Martin, Robert Mordah, Samuel Moor, 
Widow McCallen, Robert McCallen, John 
McCullough, Robert McCleerv, William Mc- 
Cord, Neil McCallister, Thos. McCallen, John 
McCallister, John McQueen, Josiah Mc- 
Queen, John McQueen, Jr., Nathaniel Nes- 
bit, John Over, Widow Binneogle, Moses 
Potts, Jacob Brunk, Abraham Reamer, 
Philip Reamer, Abraham Reigal, John 
Roan, David Rea, Conrad Rash, Andrew 
Roan, John Rea, William Robinson, Will- 
iam Sawyer, Christly Snyder, John Sawyer, 
Jacob Steely, Christly Stickley, George Bals- 
bach, iLumbard Shellan, Widow Sloan, 
Peter Dollenbough, Felty Dollenbough, John 
Tanner, David Taylor, William Willson, 
John Walker, Henry Walker, James Walter, 
John Walker, Conrad Washhon, Archibald 
Walker, James Willson, James Walker. 
Freemen — Joseph Carmony, Thomas Mit- 
chel, James Carson, James Morton, Robert 
Kennedy, John Mordah, Robert Mordah, Jr. 



[I have been Eleven Days taking the re- 
turn of the within Township. 

Robert Mordah. 
December 20th, 1758.] 

West Side of Berry— 1758. 

Jacob Albright, Robert Armstrong, Widow 
Blackburn, Anthony Blessly, Michael Bach- 
man, Thomas Bell (blacksmith), Will- 
iam Bredan, Hugh Black, Martin Brand, 
Adam Baum, Peter Barsh, George Boni- 
baugh, George Beaver, Dewalt Baker, 
Thomas Black, Arthur Chambers (for 
James Chambers' land), William & John 
Carson, Hugh Carothers, James Clark, 
James Carothers, Jacob Couts, Joseph 
Candor, Robert Cryder, Arthur Chambers, 
Robert Chambers, Moses Campbell, John 
Crocket, Adam Dalker, William Drennan, 
David Etley, George Frey, John Fleming, 
Michael Gensel, Michael Hoover, Jr., Ulry 
Hipsher, Frederick Hummel, Adam Harn- 
aker, Thomas Hall, Andrew Hershey, Jr., 
Michael Hoover, John Harris, Esq., James 
Ireland, John Carr, Peter Kinder, John 
Laird, Matthew Laird, Felix Landis, Samuel _ 
Murray. Lewis Murray, John Newcomer, 
ATbert Nelson, James Nelson, Robert Nelson, 
Francis Newcomer, Thomas Park, Moses 
Patterson, John Porterfield, Samuel Reed, 
James Russell, Sr., James Russell, Robert 
Ramsey, Andrew Robinson,William Strieker, 
Stoffel Shoop, William Starrett, Daniel 
Straw, Geo. Stevenson, Esq., William Spen- 
cer, Mathias Stahl, Peter Speugler, Simon 
Singer, John Singer, Philip Shuger, Widow 
Semple, Max Spidle, James Shaw, Alexan- 
der Sterrett, Jacob Stoufi'er, Robert Taylor, 
John Tice, John Vanlear, John Vance, John 
Willson (non-resident land), George West- 
berry, Conrad Wolfley, Adam Waggoner, 
Matthew Willson, Robert Walker, Moses 
Willson, Samuel Walker, Anthony Weirick, 
Lawrence McGill, Edward McConnal, Hec- 
tor McClain, Samuel McCormick, William 
McComb, Robert McKee, Widow McKee. 
Freemen — James Harris, George Shinlin, 
Lawrence Strieker, Frederick Gassier, John 
McCollough, James Vanlear, James Henry, 
James Snoddv, John Waugh, Andrew Lenny, 
James Fenton, James Walker, John Bow- 
man. 

Berry Township — 1769. 

Adam Slaymaker, Alexander Fleck, An- 
drew Bayer, Abraham Strickler, Anna Ire- 
land, Abraham Derr, Andrew Shredly, An- 



20 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



thony Blessly, Abraham Copa, Archy Mont- 
gomery, Adam Thomas, Adam Baum, Bedy 
Blackburn, Bernard Queen, Christy Stouffer, 
Jennie Chambers, Cassel Beyers, Christly 
Smith, Christly Brunner, Christly Alleman, 
David McHorter, Galloway's land, David 
Clinn, David From, Benjamin Hershey, 
David Johnson, Felix Landis, Frederick 
Hess, Frederick Zeller, Frederick Brands- 
letter, Frederick Shott, George Balsbaugh, 
George Pfeil, Henry Slaymaker, Henry Lan- 
dis, Henry Fritz, Handel Wentz, Henry 
Hoover, John Semple, John Kaufman, John 
Brindel, John Hamaker, John Laird, Jacob 
Haldeman, John Raysor, John Borrish, John 
Singer, Jacob Smith, John Hershey, Jacob 
Lime, Joseph Brinn, James Russel, Jacob 
Metzger, John Abler, John Witmer, James 
Shaw, Jacob Ross, Joseph Kinder, John 
Carr, Jacob Nissly, Isabel Hall, Joseph Reif, 
John Fleming, John Evans, John Parthe- 
more, Moses Wilson, Martin Houser, Ma- 
thias Young, Moses Campbell, Mathias 
Bricket, Max Spidle & Son, Matthew Laird, 
Martin Brand, Michael Hoover, Nicholas 
Bass, Peter Berst, Peter Bucks, Peter Gros- 
glass, Robert Crotter, Robert McKee, Robert 
Walker, Robert Dollar, Robert Briekey, 
Galloway's land, Robert Allison, Robert 
Ramsey, David Ramsey, Stophel Alliman, 
Oliver Ramsey, Samuel Rich, Galloway's 
land, Sarah Chambers, Samuel Clark, George 
Bower, Christopher Bogner, Andrew Rid- 
linger, Martin Reaf, Adam Dean, Michael 
Kramer, Widow Wetherholt, Peter Spate, 
Jacob Reigert, Christian King. Freemen — 
Frederick Stahl, Daniel Staper. 

Derry Township — 1770. 

Robert Allison. Stophel Alliman, John 
Abler, Christy Alliman, Jacob Albright, 
George Balsbaugh, Elisha Blackburn, Peter 
Bucks, Anthony Blessly, Martin Brand, 
Peter Berst, Cassel Beyers, Adam Baum, 
Martin Brand, Ludwick Brand, John Boor- 
ish, Nicholas Bass, Joseph Brim, George 
Bails, Mathias Bricker, Christley Braneer, 
John Parthemore, Abraham Copa, Daniel 
Clim, Moses Campbell, Sarah Chambers, 
Samuel Clark, John Carr, Robert Crotter, 
Isaac Chambers, Abraham Derr, William 
Denn, Jacob Dudmilen, William Ears, John 
Evans, Alexander Fleck, Henry Fretz, John 
Fleming, David From, Peter Grosglas, Jos- 
eph Galloway, Archy Montgomery, John 
Gingrich, Adam Hamaker, Frederick Hess, 
John Hamaker, Jacob Haldeman, Michael 



Huber, Henry Hamaker, Andrew Hershey, 
David McHorten, Isabell Hall, Anna Ireland, 
David Johnson, John Kaufman, Jacob Kass, 
Robert McKee, Joseph Kinder, Adam Lam- 
bert, Henry Landis, Peter Landis, Mathew 
Laird, William Laird, John Laird, Jacob 
Linn, Wendel Minek, Jacob Max, Jacob 
Metzger, Elias Nagly, Henry Nover, Jacob 
Nissly, John Prentill, William Brinton, Bern- 
hard Queen, John Raysor, James Russell, 
Samuel Reith, Thomas Ramsey, Robert 
Ramsey. Joseph Reif, Stophel Rernsway, 
Max Spidle, Andrew Sherdly, Max Spidle 
(inmate), Christly Stouffer, John Singer, 
Christ!}' Smith, Abraham Strickler, Fred- 
erick Shott, Jacob Smith, James Shaw, 
Daniel Sharrat, John Sampel, Ulry Sharr, 
William Shaw, Stophel Shoop, Adam 
Thomas, Henry Thomas, Moses Wilson, 
Wendel Wentz, John Witmer, Robert 
Walker, James Welsh, Matthew Young, 
Frederick Zeller. 

Frederick Town— 1770. 

Peter Spare, Jacob Reigert, Sussanah 
Wetherholt, Bastian Crawas, John Cramer, 
Christian King, Frederick Hummel, Widow 
Emerick, Ludwick Shad, Jacob Haman, 
Andrew Ridlinger, Adam Deen, Bernard 
Fridley, Jacob Myer, Christopher Bogner, 
John Philips, Jacon Isaac, Henry Bessem, 
Andrew Herauf, Henry Sheaffer. Freemen 
— Henekel Ebert, Wm. Krap, Bernard Folk, 
Samuel Hall, Jacob Fridley, George Shoop. 



East End of Hanover Return — 1750. 

Joseph Willson's land, 100 a.; John Dixon, 
100 a.; Hugh McQown, 100 a.; John Ramsey, 
100 a.; Edward McMurray, 100 a.; Jacob 
Stuckey (upon a rented place), Mathias 
Plouts, 100 a.; William Stover, 100 a.; Jacob 
Stover, 100 a.; Thomas Strain, 50 a.; John 
Myers, 100 a.; William Woods, 100 a.; Robert 
Strain, 50 a.; Joseph Todd, 100 a.; John 
Todd, 100 a.; Walter Bell, 140 a.; Jos. Mc- 
Courtney, 50 a.; James Dixon, 100 a.; Will- 
iam Thomson, 50 a.; John Strain, 100 a.; 
Robert Heslet & Porterfield (upon a rented 
place), John Crawford, 100 a.; William Rob- 
inson, 100 a.; Peter Stuart's land, 100 a.; 
Humphrey Cunningham, 100 a.; Stophel 
Sees, 100 a.; Henry Hover, 100 a.; Samuel 
Grew, 50 a.; Thomas Shonla, 100 a.; John 
Young, 200 a.; Adam Reed, 200 a.; John 
Sloan, 100 a.; John Sloan, 100 a.; Samuel 
Sloan, 100 a,; William Young, 200 a.; Joseph 
Clark, 100 a.; Abraham Williams, 200 a.; 



\ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



21 



Jack Williams, 100 a.; William Clark, 100 a.; 
George Titel, 100 a.; Jonathan Hide (free- 
man), Robert Gibson (freeman), Joseph 
Haupt, 100 a.; Hugh Gilliland, 150 a.; John 
Foster, 100 a.; Wido w Nid ig, 100 a.; John 
•Andrew, 100 a. 'Durst Bnghtbill, 200 a.; 
William Watson's land, 100 a.; Robert Ber- 
ger (a poor man), Brice Innis, 200 a.; John 
Morton, 50 a.; Thomas Prest, 200 a,; John 

, 150 a.; Jos. Greenlee, 50 a.; John 

Thomson, 40 a.; Andrew McMehon, 40 a.; 
Anthony McCreight, 50 a.; George Shekley 
(upon a rented place), John Creage, 160 a.; 
Patrick Gillespie, 100 a.; John Grevy, 100 a.; 
Alexander Thomson, 100 a.; Alexander 
Sloan, 100 a.; Joseph Grevy, 100 a.; 

Samuel , 100 a.; John Brown, 100 

a.; Barnet McNitt, 50 a.; John McCloone, 
50 a.; Jacob Ricar, 50 a.; Adam McNiley, 50 
a.; John Henderson, 50 a.; John Andrews, 
100 a.; Patrick Brown, 50 a.; Lazarus 
Stuart, 100 a.; John Coningham, 100 a.; 
William Coningham, 100 a.; Joseph Stuart, 
200 a.; Leonard Longe, 100 a.; Walter Mc- 
Farland's land, 150 a.; Peter Walmer, 100 a.; 
Joseph Smiley, 80 a.; Jacob Moser, 50 a.; 
Moses Vance, 100 a.; John Bruner, 100 a.; 
Peter Hetrick, 100 a.; John Kechiler, 50 a.; 
John Gilliland, 100 a.; Henry Bachman, 

100 a.; Mathias P ,100 a.; Philip Maur, 

100 a.; Mike H , 50 a,; George Shep- 

ard, 100 a.; Paul Shepard, 50 a.; Joseph 

Young, 50 a.; Martin Light, 50 a.; 

, 100 a.; Young John Tike, 50 a.; 

John Toops, 100 a.; Jacob Toops, 100 a.; 
Roudey Hauk, 100 a.; Peter Bucher, 30 a.; 

Philip Colpe, 50 a.; , 50 a.; 

Benjamin Clark, 100 a.; Joseph Williams, 
100 a.; Widow Tittle, 100 a.; Anthony Rosen- 
borne, 200 a.; John Stuart, 100 a.; Jacob 
Ricar, 30 a.; Robert Hinkroad, luO a.; Con- 
rad Ick, 50 a.; Jonathan Hume (freeman), 

Robert Gibson (freeman), Frederick 

(freeman). 

East End of Hanover— 1756. 

Durst Brightbill, Andrew Karsnits, John 
Foster, John Young, Martin Light, William 
Young, James Williams, Joseph Hoof, Daniel 
Angony, Samuel Sloan, John Sloan, Mathias 
Door, James Clark, Isaac Williams, John 
Stuart, James Young, John Andrew, Adam 
Reed, Esq., Benjamin Clark, George Tittle, 
John Forney, John Dubbs, John Weaver, 
Rudy"Hduk, Jacob Dubbs, Anthony Rosen- 
bom, John Tibbin, Jr., John Tibbin, Sr., 
George Sheffer, Devolt Angony, William 



Clark, Peter Hedrick, Nicholas Winter, 
Adam Harper, James Stuart, Lazarus Stuart, 
Patrick Brown, John Cunningham, Henry 
Weaver, Stophel Sees, Adam McNelly, Jacob 
Rigard, Thomas Price, John Crawford, Will- 
iam Graham, Alexander Martin, William 
Thomson, John Mire, James Dixon, Walter 
Bell, William Woods, James Todd, James 
McCurry, Christopher Ploutz, Brice Innis, 
George Miller, Isaac Sharp, Jacob Stover, 
William Stover, John Jacob Stover, John 
Thomson, John Dixon, William James, 
Widow Cunningham, Leonard Miller, John 
Anderson, Anthony McCreight, James Mc 
Crory. Freemen — William Wootsen, John 
Hume, Thomas Hume, John McClure, Sam- 
uel Endsworth, John Compbler, John Egter- 
son, Anthony McCreight. 

West End of Hanover — 1756. 

Mathew Snoddy, Joseph Willson, John 
McCormick, Henry McCormick, Adam Ham- 
aker, Widow Parks, Lorance Ralican, David 
McClenaghen.Sr., David McClenaghen, John 
McNeely, James Finney, Thomas Finney, 
Robert Snodgrass, Robert Love, Samuel 
Young, Daniel Shaw, John Woods, Charles 
McClure, John Taylor, John Hutchinson, 
Daniel Brown, Widow Rodgers, Seth Rodg- 
ers, Samuel Stewart, Hugh Rogers, Wm. Rog- 
ers, Joseph McKnight, James Baird, William 
Thompson, William Truesdell, Matthew 
Thornton, Francis McClure, William Rogers, 
John Brown, Alexander McElhenny, Sam- 
uel Robinson, Thomas French, James Finney, 
James French, Thomas Sharp,John Sharp, 
John Cooper, William Cooper, John Thomp- 
son, David Furgison, William Allen, John 
McClure, James Wright, Thomas Robinson 
(miller), Michael McNeely, James Robinson, 
John Stuart, Thomas McMullin, John Mil- 
ler, Robert Martin, Samuel Stuart, Gyon 
Strain, James Rippeth, Robert Wallace, 
James Willson, Matthew Taylor, Hugh Will- 
son, Antoney Ealor, William Galbraith, Ben- 
jamin Wallace, Samuel Barnett, Robert Por- 
terfield, Joseph Hutchinson, Robert Mont- 
gomery, Philip Ambrister. — Francis Mc- 
Clure, Collector. 

Hanover Assessment — 1769. 

Samuel Sterret, 150 a.; John Shergs, 100 
a.; Archibald Sloan, 150 a.; Samuel Sloan, 
150 a.; John Stuart, 200 a.; James Stuart, 
200 a.; Lazarus Stuart, 200 a.; George 
Shever, lo0 a.; James Ripeth, 100 a.; Hugh 
Ripeth, 100 a.; William Ripeth, 50 a.; James 



22 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Robinson, 200 a.; E. Rosenbery, 100 a.; 
Effey Robinson, 260 a.; James Riddel, 150 
a.; James Riddel, Jr., 150 a.; Ketren Rogers, 
100 a.; John Rogers, 100 a.; Adam Rogers, 
100 a.; Adam Rogers, 80 a.; Philip Robin- 
son, 190 a.; Joseph Ripeth, 80 a.; George 
Rogers, 100 a.; James Rogers, 200 a.; Jacob 
Richer, 100 a.; Thomas Robinson, 100 a.; 
Adam Reed, Esq., 290 a.; Christian Ramberey, 
100 a.; Robert Huston, 150 a.; Joseph 
Hutchison, 120 a.; Joseph Hutchison, 150 a.; 
John Hay, 100 a.; Robert Hume, 190 a.; 
Bartholmew Heans, 100 a.; John Hutchison, 
200 a.; Adam Harper, 320 a.; Peter Hetrick, 
150 a.; Joseph Huff, 150 a.; Ruddy Hooke, 
100 a.; John Henderson, 100 a,; John Hill, 
200 a.; Thomas Hume, 100 a.; John Halo- 
back , James Beard, 100 a.; Robert Bell, 
255 a.; William Brown, 150 a.; William 
Barnet, 150 a.; Andrew Brown, 100 a.; Will- 
iam Brandon, 100 a.; Daniel Brown, 100 a.; 
Thomas Bell, 100 a.; Thomas Bell, 180 a.; 
Martha Barnet, 200 a.; Samuel Brown, 100 
a.; John Brown, 200 a.; John Brown, 100 a.; 
William Brown, 100 a.; George Brightbill, 
218 a,; Barnet Besore, 100 a.; Mathias Besor, 
100 a.; Jacob Besor, 100 a.; William Cooper, 
100 a.; Adam Clemar, 50 a.; John McCol- 
lough, 150 a.; William Clark, 150 a.; Will- 
iam Clark; Benjamin Clark, 200 a.; 
James Clark, 90 a.; John Campbell, 200 a.; 
William McClure ; Mary Conyngham, 
100 a.; Elizabeth Conyngham, 200 a.; 
«=Ajohn Crawford, 100 a.; Frances McClure, 
100 a.; James McClure, 100 a.; John Craw- 
ford, Jr., 50 a.; Henry Counts, 80 a.; James 
McClure, 150 a.; James Parke, 100 a.; Thomas 
Price, 65 a.; Mary Price, 120 a.; Robert Por- 
terfield, 100 a.; Matthew Snodey, 120 a.; 
Robert Snodgrass, 120 a.; Joseph Snodgrass, 
140 a.; John Stren, 100 a.; John Smiley, 100 
a.; George Smiley, 100 a.; Daniel Shaw, 150 
a.; Samuel Stuart, 150 a.; John Stuart, 100 
a.; John Swan, 100 a.; John Tibney, Sr., 100 
a.; John Tubs, 100 a.; Jacob Tubs, 200 a.; 
George Tittel, 150 a.; William Thompson 
(weaver), 100 a.; William Ferguson, 200 a.; 
Thomas French, 100 a.; John Foster, 211 a.; 
Walter McFarland, 200 a.; Ruddy Fray, 200 
a.; John Fox, 200 a.; Thomas Finey, 50 a.; 
James Finey, 100 a.; James Finey, Sr., ISO 
a.; Thomas Finey, 50 a.; James French, 
50 a.; James Low ; Samuel Young, 50 
a.; William Young, 230 a.; John Young, 
295 a.; Robert Martin, 100 a.; Robert Mont- 
gomery, 80 a.; John Montgomery, 250 a.; 
Thomas McMullen, 150 a. Freemen — John 



Parke (weaver), James Petticrew (weaver), 
George McMullen (weaver), William Clark, 
John McClure (weaver), George Shanklen 
(weaver), David Stren (shoemaker), William 
Dermond (weaver), Samuel Robinson, Robert 
Hill, John Wilken (schoolmaster), Hugh 
Willson, James Andrew (blacksmith), James 
Andrew, John McFarland (carpenter), Will- 
iam Willson; William McElheney 200 a.; 
Samuel Endsworth, 100 a.; Doctor John 
Letes ; Sebastian Kinsner, 150 a.; Will- 
iam Allen, 200 a.; Joseph McNutt, 100 a.; 
Matthew Gelor, 100 a.; Robert Brown, 100 
a.; Mary Dermond, 200 a.; James Wright, 
100 a.; Matthias Poor, 100 a.; Patrick Brown, 
90 a.; William Diver (tailor); John 
Dixon, 250 a.; James Dixon, 200 a.; John 
Andrew, 150 a.; John Andrew, 200 a.; Tim- 
othy McGuire, 200 a.; James McQiiown, 265 
a.; John McQuown, 299 a.; Brice Innis, 229 
a.; William James, 190 a.; John Gettey; 
William Graham, 111 a.; Edward Mc- 
Glanigen, 100 a.; William Graham, 130 a.; 
John Gililand, 100 a.; James Greenlee, 100 
a.; John Graham, 100 a.; Hugh Glenn, 50 a.; 
James Todd, 200 a.; John Thompson, 200 a .. 
James Taggert ; John Thomson, 130 
a.; William Thornton, 100 a.; William 
Thomson, 80 a.; William Trousdal, 200 a.; 
John Thomson, 100 a.; John Tibens, 100 a.; 
John Taylor, 150 a.; James Willson, 199 a.; 
Hugh Willson, 199 a.; Robert Wallace, 200 
a.; Joseph Willson, 100 a.; Samuel Walkers, 
150 a.; John Woods, 100 a.; James Willson, 
100 a.; Joseph Willson, 103 a.; Andrew 
Woods, 190 a.; Thomas Willson (weaver); 
Peter Walmer, 130 a.; James Williams, 
98 a.; John Weaver, 100 a.; James Willson, 
200 a.; William Wattson, 100 a.; Henry xMc- 
Cormick, 150 a.; John McCord, 100 a.; David 
McClanochan, 150 a.; John McClancchan, 
150 a.; John McCormick, 100 a.; Anten Mc- 
Creight, 80 a.; William McClure, 90 a.; 
Thomas McClure, 90 a.; John McClure, 100 
a.; Eleanor McClure, 150 a.; William Mc- 
Clintock, 390 a.; Alexander McColm, 100 a.; 
John Cameron (one cow), William Gargin 
(one cow), John Glenn (one cow). 

Hanover Assessment— 1782. 

Capt. William Allen, Joseph Allen, James 
Andrew, Widow Andrew, Francis Alberthal, 
Nicholas Alberthal, Michael Boughman, John 
Brown, Sr., William Brown, Esq., Samuel 
Bell, Widow Baird, William Brown, Samuel 
Brown, Jr., Philip Brand, John Brown, Joseph 
Barnet, William Branden, Jacob Bowen, 



/ 1 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



23 



Andrew Brown, George Brouse, Michael 
Brown, Philip Bomgartner, Peter Bridbile, 
John Bridbile, Capt. Daniel Bradley, Balzer 
Bomgartner, John Bear, Robert Bell, John 
Backer, John Bomgartner, David Caldwell, 
Jacob Cook, Esq., Andrew Cooper, James Cal- 
' hoon, Richard Crawford, John Cooper,Widow 
Crawford, Joseph Grain, William Cathcart, 
George Crain, Patrick Cunningham, Capt. 
Ambrose Crain, Widow Campbell, Benjamin 
Clark, Jr., Michael Cunkle, Andrew Carvery, 
Henry Clover, John Craig, James Caldwell, 
James Dixon's widow, Richard Dixon, Sankey 
Dixon, Richard Dearmond, John Dollinger, 
Peter Ebersole, Robert Ewing, Christian 
Earley, Josias Espy, John Entsworth, Eman- 
uel Tuye, Samuel Ferguson, Michael Finlaw, 
Adam Firebough, Thomas Finey, Robert 
Fieoman, John Ferguson, Widow French, 
Anthony Fox, Richard Finley, Samuel 
Finey, Casper Freeman, Thomas Frederick, 
Robert Folten, Timothy Green, Esq., Joseph 
Green, John Graham, Hugh Glenn, James 
Graham, Capt. William Graham, Henry 
Graham, Henry Graham in trust, Robert 
Greenlee, Curtis Grubb & Co., Christian Hu- 
ber, John Herring, Andrew Horner, Adam 
Hamaker, John Hume, Leonard Humbarger, 
Joseph Hutchison, Abraham Host, James 
Hamble, John Harper, Conrad Helm, Henry 
Hess, William Hedrick, Peter Hedrick, 
George Hedrick, ThomasHume, Widow Hill, 
Isaac Harrison, David Hoy, John H uber, 
George Haynes, Joseph Hutchison, Sr., Rich- 
ard Johnson, James Johnson, Israel Low, 
Andrew Kerr, Robert Kenaday, Thomas Ken- 
nedy, Andrew Killinger, Samuel Kearsley, 
Ludwig Kleck, Peter Kingrey, Daniel King, 
Maj. Abraham Latcha, Widow Leidy, Jacob 
Lose, John Lose, Henry Lowmiller, Widow 
Low, John McClintock, William Montgom- 
ery, Esq., William Montgomery, Capt. Will- 
iam McCullough, William Miskimons, James 
McMullen, John McCown, John McCown in 
trust, William Michael, John McCormick's 
widow, Robert Moody, Tbomas McNear, 
Widow McCormick, James McClure, Conrad 
Moyer, George Minig, Jacob Mover, Killian 
Mark, George Mpase ; Jacoh Millen, John Mc- 
Cord, Daniel Musser, William McFarland, 
Michael Moura, John McCallen, John Mc- 
Callen in trust, Capt. James McCreight, 
Thomas McCord, David McGuire, Martin 
Miley, Barnard McNutt, Daniel Miller, James 
Porter, James Parks, Robert Porterfield, Mi- 
chael Poise, Joseph Pirkey, Nicholas Poor, 
Frederick Peasore, Mathias Peasore, George 



Peasore, George Peasore, John Bruner, John 
Pickel, James Pet, Col. John Rogers, Jacob 
Righard, William Robinson, Jacob Ram, 
James Ripeth, James Robinson, William 
Ripeth, James Rogers, Widow Ram, Jere- 
miah Rogers, William Riddle, William Rog- 
ers, John Robinson, John Rouck, Samuel 
Robinson, George Rumberger, Peter Rambol, 
Peter River, John Raver, David Ramsey, 

William Ramsey, Philip Rank, Martin R . 

George Ramsey & Co., John Romatch, John 
Righard, John Righard in trust, Jacob Road, 
Adam Stone, Balzer Stone, John Snodgrass, 
Samuel Sturgeon, Widow Swan, Samuel Stew- 
art, John Snyder, Robert Sturgeon, Peter 
Spelsbough, William Snodgrass, John Ster- 
ritt, Henry Sharp, Jacob Sant, Jacob 
Sprecher, John Simmerman, Ulre} r Sach- 
ery, William Snody, Henry Sigler, Widow 
Stewart, John Shuby, Michael Seltzer, Arch- 
ibald Sloan, Widow Stewart, William Stew- 
art, Q. M., Philip Seidensticker, Nicholas 
Snyder, Peter Smelzers, William Sloan, 
Henry Shue, Abraham Stine, John Sy- 
moif, Alexander Sloan, Widow Strean, 
John Shue, Ludwig Searing, Valentine 
SEouffler, John Tod, David Tod, Robert 
Templeton, James Tagart, William Trous, 
John Thompson, John Thompson, Sr., 
George Title, William Thome, Jacob Tups, 
John Tubbin, Jacob Tubbins, James Tod, 
Capt. James Wilson, Tbomas Walker, Widow 
White, Andrew Water, George Ward, James 
Waller, Andrew Wilson, Hugh Wilson, 
James Wilson, Sr., George Wallmore, John 
Weaver, Jacob Wolf, Deobald Wentling, 
Christian Wingard, Abraham Wingard, Peter 
Walmore, Sr., Peter Wallmore, John Winter, 
Bartholmew Wentle, William Young, Jr., 
James Young. Inmates — Benjamin Fulton, 
Jacob Houck, John Martin, Robert Fulton, 
Neal Matten, John Elder, Alexander Foster, 
John Patterson, David Moffett, Francis Fer- 
guson, David Kingrey, William Clockey, 
James Wilson, Robert Lues, Hugh Morris, 
Valentine Spelsbough, George Bruner, Fred- 
erick Bickel, John Stover, Michael Moyer, 
John Moore, Patrick Gallent, James Bradden, 
Robert McFarland, William Fleeman, John 
Dunlay, Robert Strain, David Hays, Alex. 

ander Mc , James Johnson, Alexander 

Hechet, William Cunningham, Charles Mc- 
Elroy, Hugh Jolly, Henry Menig, George 
Maura, John Pitre, John McBride, John 
Young (smith), Smith, Andrew Young, 
Henry Bruner, John Wallmore, James Robin- 
son, Jacob Creamor, Peter Weiry, John Arm- 






24 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



strong, George Espy, Adam Weaver, Eave 
Huffnagle. Freemen — John Young, Nicholas 
Bruner, John Bruner, Henry Stone, Henry 
Peasore, Duncan Sinkler, Martine Miller, 
William Hume, Hugh Rippelly, Edward 
Striddle, John Morrison. People living over 
the mountain — John Smiley, Jacob Graff, 
Jacob Fealer, George Unger, Peter Bucher, 
Casper Grasson, Christian Fox, Thomas 
Smiley, David Petticrue, Conrad Smith, John 
Shups, George Sider, Abraham Alles, John 
Carverry, Peter Kling. 



CHAPTER III. 

Summary of Events up to the Struggle for Inde- 
pendence. 

Proceeding onward, with our brief history 
of Dauphin county and the lists of its early 
settlers, we find that about 1740 the influx 
of emigration, especially of the Scotch-Irish, 
was so great that family after family re- 
moved down the Cumberland Valley to the 
Potomac and beyond, into Virginia and the 
Carolinas. This tide of settlers was one con- 
tinued stream until the thunders of the Revo- 
lution checked emigration to America. They 
can be traced from their resting place among 
their relations and friends in the townships 
of Paxtang, Derry and Hanover, to their de- 
scendants of the present day, who are promi- 
nent among the representative people of the 
South and West. The assessment lists, of 
which we have given, contain probably 
double the number of names found later on, 
showing how these people, pioneers of the 
wilderness, like bees swarmed out from the 
parent hive, and sought, perchance, more 
congenial localities. Limited as we must be, 
in this historical sketch, we find it impossi- 
ble to dwell fully upon the important events 
which transpired in the early days of the 
hardy pioneers. Volumes could be written, 
upon their trials, upon their endurance, and 
upon the remarkable events in which they 
were prominent actors in Pennsylvania his- 
tory. A summary of the most important 
phases of that history is all that can be given 
in this connection, reference being had to 
other works which furnish not only a fuller, 
but a better insight into the beginnings of 
Dauphin county history. 

Harris' trade with the Indians continued 
to increase, and Harris' Ferry became known 



far and wide, not only to the red men, but 
to the white race in foreign countries. 

During John Harris' frequent visits to 
Philadelphia he met at the house of his 
friend Shippen, Miss Esther Say, like him- 
self not over young, from his native York- 
shire, and in the latter part of the year 1720 
married her. The wedding took place either 
at the Swedes church, Wicaco, or at Christ 
church, both being members of the Church 
of England. Among the early colonists who 
settled in Philadelphia were a number of the 
name of Say, but to which family Esther 
Harris was connected is not to be ascertained 
with certainty. She was kinswomen to the 
Shippens, and of course respectably con- 
nected. A remarkable woman, she was also 
well calculated to share the love, the trials, 
the hardships and the cabin of the intrepid 
pioneer. 

In 1721-22 their first child, Elizabeth, was 
born; in 1725 their second, Esther Harris, 
and in October, 1727, their first son, John 
Harris. This was the founder of Harris- 
burg. The statement that he was the first 
white child born west of the Conewago hills 
is not correct. There were settlers beyond, 
along the Swatara, as early as 1718 ; and it 
is natural to suppose that in many a log 
cabin the sunshine of babyhood gladdened 
the hearts of the hardy pioneer, and who 
also attained mature age. The parents car- 
ried their child when nearly a year old to 
Philadelphia, where he was baptized on the 
22d of September, 1728, as they had pre- 
viously done with their other children. That 
of Esther Harris took place August 31, 1726, 
according to the parish register of Christ 
church, but we have not been able to ascer- 
tain the date of the baptism of the eldest 
child. 

Until this period (1728) the country lying 
between the Conewago hills and the Kittoch- 
tinny mountains was owned, or rather 
claimed, by the Five Nations. It is true, 
the Scotch-Irish settlers had been pushed 
within these bounds ten years previously by 
the very Provincial authorities who destroyed 
their cabins on land alread}' purchased. 
The treaty of 1728 opened up this vast and 
rich valley to the venturesome. Filling up 
rapidly, on May 10, 1729, the Assembly 
passed " An act for the erecting the upper 
part of the Province of Pennsylvania lying 
towards the Susquehanna, Conestogoe, Don- 
negal, etc., into a county," to be called Lan- 
caster. At the first court in and for said 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



25 



county, November 3, 1730, at Posthlethwaite's, 
a petition was presented hy John Harris, 
among others, "praying that he may be 
recommended to the governor as a suitable 
person to trade with the Indians," and was 
allowed per curiam. This, of course, was 
necessary in the change of counties ; hereto- 
fore the application passed through the 
court of Chester county, and in this connec- 
tion we may remark that among the Chester 
county records as early as 1722 is to be found 
the name of John Harris, " on the Susqua- 
hannah." Subsequently he made applica- 
tion to the same authority to "sell rum by 
the small," which was granted. 

In 1732, with the desire of establishing an 
additional trading post, Harris built a store- 
house at the mouth of the Juniata. The last 
purchase (1728) not extending this far, the 
Indians objected to it, especially Sassonan 
and Shickalamy, who wrote through their 
interpreters to the governor, informing him 
of the fact, and also to John Harris, com- 
manding him to desist from making a plan- 
tation at the point referred to. The author- 
ities made no objection. 

By virtue of a warrant from the Proprie- 
taries of Pennsylvania, bearing date January 
1, 1725-6, five hundred acres of land were 
granted to John Harris, father of the founder 
of Harrisburg; and subsequently, on the 17th 
of December, 1733, by a patent, three hun- 
dred acres of allowance land, upon which he 
had commenced a clearing, on the pres- 
ent site of the city, about the year 1707. 
The land included in the latter patent ex- 
tended from what is now the line of Cum- 
berland street some distance south of the 
present north boundary of the city, and in- 
cluding also a part of the present site of the 
city, with its several additions. 

Until the year 1735-6 there was no regu- 
larly constructed road to the Susquehanna, 
but at a session of the Provincial Council 
held in Philadelphia January 22, 1735-6, on 
the petition of sundry inhabitants of Chester 
and Lancaster counties, "setting forth the 
Want of a High Road in the Remote parts 
of the said Counties where the petitioners are 
seated, and that a very commodious one may 
be laid out from the Ferry of John Harris, 
on Susquehannah, to fall in with the High 
Road leading from Lancaster town at or near 
the Plantation of Edward Kennison, in the 
Great Valley in the County of Chester," it 
was ordered that viewers be appointed who 
shall make a return of the same, "together 



with a Draught of the said Road." Subse- 
quently this was done, and the highway 
opened from the Susquehanna to the Dela- 
ware. 

The most interesting of the early or pio- 
neer roads, historically considered, is that 
which was laid out through the territory 
lying west of the Susquehanna river — from 
" Harris' Ferry towards Potomac." It is the 
most interesting, because for a period of 
seventy years it was the great highway up 
and down which passed the produce of that 
large and fertile region ; because in the early 
provincial wars to which the Paxtang, 
Derry, and Hanover settlements gave many 
of their fathers and sons, it was the way by 
which they marched to meet the enemy and 
by which they marched to receive greetings 
from homes made safe by their valor ; and 
because it has the unique distinction of hav- 
ing been the first effort of our forefathers to 
connect the wilderness with the civilization 
which la}' beyond. It swept by our borders 
on the north and on the west; and by reason 
of its location became the pioneer road of 
Western and Southern Pennsylvania. It was 
laid out six years before Cumberland county 
was created, and while all the territory west 
of the Susquehanna was within the jurisdic- 
tion of the courts at Lancaster. Hence in 
the archives at Lancaster is the only record 
now attainable of the various steps by which 
this road came into being. It was in con- 
troversy for nine years. The first trace of it 
is in 1735. It was surveyed by courses and 
distances and ordained as a lawful road in 
1744. We have said that the first trace of 
this pioneer road appears in 1735. It was 
in November of that year when a petition 
was presented to the " Worshipful the Jus- 
tices of the Court of Quarter Session " at Lan- 
caster, from inhabitants on the west side of 
the Susquehanna river, opposite to Paxtang, 
praying that a roadway be laid out " from 
John Harris' Ferry towards Potomac." The 
petition was favorably regarded, and Randle 
Chambers, James Peat, James Silvers, Thomas 
Eastland, John Lawrence and Abraham 
Endless were appointed the viewers, with 
power in four of them to act. They reported 
a route for the road at the next sitting of the 
court, but the view had developed the usual 
result of great neighborhood agitation. In 
the winter of 1735, it is recorded that there 
met at the house of Widow Piper in Ship- 
pensburg a number of persons from along 
the Conedoguinet and Middle Spring to re- 



26 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



monstrate against the road passing through 
"the barrens" and to ask that it be made 
through the Conedoguinet settlement as 
more populous and more suitable. When, 
therefore, the viewers made their report in 
February, 1736, they were confronted with 
the petitions of a " considerable number of 
inhabitants in those parts," who set forth 
that the said road, as it is laid, is hurtful to 
many of the plantations, is " further about, 
and is more difficult to clear" than if it was 
laid more to the southward. They, there- 
fore, prayed that a review of the same be 
made b}' "persons living on the east side of 
the Susquehanna." This conveys a delicate 
suggestion that personal or other interests 
had influenced the previous viewers, two of 
whom lived on the line as laid out. The 
court granted a review and appointed Will- 
iam Ren nick, Richard Hough, James Arm- 
strong, Thomas Mays, Samuel Montgomery 
and Benjamin Chambers, tf> " make such 
alterations in said road as may seem to them 
necessary for the public good." Some of 
these lived west of the Susquehanna — others 
east of it. So the court did not fully share 
the suspicion of the remonstrants, but con- 
ceded something to the excitement of the 
moment. Little change, however, in the 
route was made, and to-day the turnpike 
from Harrisburg to Chambersburg passes 
over this very pioneer highway which a 
century and a-half ago exercised the early 
settlers. This was the opening of the high- 
way to the undeveloped West. 

Well advanced in life, at the age of about 
seventy-five, after having for several years 
intrusted his business to his eldest son, still 
in his minority, in December, 1748, the first 
pioneer quietly passed away from earth, 
having previously made a request that his 
remains be interred underneath the shade 
of that tree so memorable to him. There 
his dust lies at rest on the banks of our 
beautiful river — within the hearing of its 
thundering at flood-tide, and the musical 
rippling of its pellucid waters in its subdued 
majesty and beauty. 

The oldestson, John Harris, who succeeded 
to the greatest portion of his father's estate, 
and who, in 1785, laid out the capital city of 
Pennsylvania, married, first, Elizabeth Mc- 
Clure, and, second, Mary Read, daughter of 
Capt. Adam Read, of Hanover, an officer of 
the Provincial service, was a prominent per- 
sonage during the Indian wars, and the 
principal military storekeeper on the frontier. 



His letters to the governors and the officials 
of the Province and others are of intense 
interest, and deserve to be collated by our 
antiquarians. Not models of style, it is true, 
but they give vivid descriptions of the peril- 
ous times in which our ancestors dwelt who 
made the then out-bounds of civilization 
flourish and " blossom as a rose." 

B3 7 a grant from Thomas Penn and Rich- 
ard Penn, Esqs., proprietaries, to John Har- 
ris, Jr., bearing date of record " ye 19th Feb- 
ruary, 1753," that gentlemen was allowed 
the right of running a ferr}' across the Sus- 
quehanna, from which originated the former 
name of the place, which previous to the or- 
ganization of the county was known far and 
near as Harris' Ferr}\ 

It appears from letters of John Harris, 
written to Governor Morris, that an Indian 
named Half King, also called Tanacharisson, 
died at his house on the night of the 1st of 
October, 1754. Rupp says that " he had his 
residence at Logstown,on the Ohio, fourteen 
miles below Pittsburgh, on the opposite side. 
George Washington visited him in 1753, and 
desired him to relate some of the particulars 
of a journey he had shortly before made to 
the French Commandant at Fort Duquesne." 
We find this note among the votes of As- 
sembly, 1754: "Dec. 17, Post Meridian, 
1754. — The Committee of Accounts reported 
a balance of £10 15s. 4d. due to the said 
John Harris for his expenses, and £5 for his 
trouble, &c, in burying the Half-King and 
maintaining the sundry Indians that were 
with him." It may be interesting to know 
that the Half King was buried near the 
first John Harris at the foot of the mulberry 
tree. 

They had considerable trouble at Harris' 
Ferry during the French and Indian war, 
which extended over the period from 1754 
to 1765. A petition from the inhabitants of 
the townships of Paxtang, Derry and Hano- 
ver, Lancaster county, bearing date July 22, 
1754, and setting forth their precarious con- . 
dition, was presented and read in the Coun- 
cil on the 6th of August following. It bore 
the signatures of Thomas Forster, James 
Armstrong, John Harris, Thomas Simpson, 
Samuel Simpson, John Carson, David 
Shields, William M'Mullin, John Cuoit, Will- 
iam Armstrong, William Bell, John Dough- 
erty, James Atkin, Andrew Cochran, James 
Reed, Thomas Rutherford, T.McArthur, Will- 
iam Steel, Samuel Hunter, Thomas Mayes, 
James Collier, Henry Rennicks, Richard Mc- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



27 



Clure. Thomas Dugan, John Johnson, Peter 
Fleming, Thomas Sturgeon, Matthew Tay- 
lor, Jeremiah Sturgeon, Thomas King, Rob- 
ert Smith, Adam Read, John Crawford, 
Thomas Crawford, Jonathan McClure, 
Thomas Hume, Thomas Steene, John Hume, 
John Creige, Thomas McClure, William Mc- 
Clure, John Rodgers, James Patterson, John 
Young, Ez. Sankey, John Forster, Mitchel 
Graham, James Toalen, James Galbraith, 
James Campbell, Robert Boyd, James Cham- 
bers, Robert Armstrong, Jno. Campbell, 
Hugh;Black, Thomas Black. 

At this period also we find an extensive 
correspondence between John Harris, Con- 
rad Weiser and others and Edward Shippen, 
complaining of the insecurity of life and 
property owing to the depredations of the 
Indians ; and their tenor is a continual and 
just complaint of the outrages committed by 
the savages, and urgent requests to the au- 
thorities for protection and arms, etc. 

On the 8th of January, 1756, a council 
with the Indians was held at the house of 
John Harris, at Paxtang, composed of Hon. 
Robert Hunter Morris, governor; James 
Hamilton and Richard Peters, secretaries ; 
Joseph Fox, commissioner, and Conrad 
Weiser, interpreter; two Indians of the Six 
Nations, called " The Belt of Wampum," a 
Seneca, and the " Broken Thigh," a Mohawk. 
The meeting was of an amicable character, 
and was only the preliminary step to a 
larger and more important council held the 
week following at Carlisle. One of the rea- 
sons for holding the council at the latter 
place was, " that there was but few con- 
veniences ' for the proper entertainment ' of 
the Governor and his company at Harris 
Ferry, and Mr. Weiser gave it as his opinion 
that it would be better to adjourn to Car- 
lisle." A second council was held here on 
the 1st of April, 1757. Present, the Rev. 
. John Elder, Captain Thomas McKee, Messrs. 
James Armstrong, Hugh Crawford, John 
Harris, William Pentrup, interpreter, and 
warriors from the Mohawks, Oneidas, Tus- 
caroras, Onondagoes, Nanticokes, Cayugas, 
Delawares, Senecas and Conestogoes, with 
their women and children. George Croghan, 
Esq., deputy agent to the Hon. Sir W. John- 
son, Bart., his majesty's sole agent and 
superintendent of the Six Nations, etc., was 
also present. This council was removed to 
Lancaster, owing to the number of Indians 
then encamped at Conestoga Manor where 
the remainder of the business was concluded. 



The most interesting event of this period 
was the extermination of the so-called Cones- 
toga Indians by the Paxtang Rangers. The 
situation of the frontiers succeeding the 
Pontiac war was truly deplorable, principally 
owing to the supineness of the Provincial 
authorities, for the Quakers, who controlled 
the government, were, to use the language of 
Capt. Lazarus Stewart, " more solicitous for 
the welfare of the blood-thirsty Indian than 
for the lives of the frontiersman." In their 
blind partiality, bigotry and political preju- 
dice, they would not readily accede to the 
demands of those of a different religious 
faith. Especially was this the case relative 
to the Presbyterians and Roman Catholics, 
both of whom were tolerated by mere suffer- 
ance. To them, therefore, was greatly attri- 
butable the reign of horror and devastation 
in the border counties. The government 
was deaf to all entreaties, and Gen. Amherst, 
commander of the British forces in America, 
did not hesitate to give his feelings an em- 
phatic expression — " The conduct of the Penn- 
sylvania Assembly" he wrote, " is altogether so 
infatuated and stupidly obstinate, that I want 
words to express my indignation thereat." 
Nevertheless, the sturdy Scotch-Irish and 
Germans of this section rallied for their own 
defense. The inhabitants of Paxtang and 
Hanover immediately enrolled themselves 
into several companies, the Rev. John Elder 
being their colonel. 

Lazarus Stewart, Matthew Smith and Asher 
Clayton, men of acknowledged military abil- 
ity and prowess, commanded distinct com- 
panies of Rangers. These brave men were 
ever on the alert, watching with eagle eye the 
Indian marauders who at this period swooped 
down upon the defenseless frontiers. High 
mountains, swollen rivers, or great distances 
never deterred or appalled them. Their 
courage and fortitude were equal to every 
undertaking, and woe betide the red men 
when their blood-stained tracks once met 
their eyes. The Paxtang Rangers were the 
terror of the Indians — they were swift on foot, 
excellent horsemen, good shots, skillful in 
pursuit or escape, dexterous as scouts and 
expert in manoeuvering. 

The murders in and around Paxtang, not- 
withstanding the vigilance of the Rangers, be- 
came numerous, and many a family mourned 
for some of their number shot by the secret 
foe or carried awa}' captive. The frontiers- 
men took their rifles with them to the field 
and to the sanctuary. Their colonel and 



28 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



pastor placed his trusty piece beside him in 
the pulpit; and it is authoritatively stated 
that on one occasion old Derry meeting 
house was surrounded while he was preach- 
ing; but their spies having counted the rifles 
the Indians retired from their ambuscade 
without making an attack. 

Many were the murderous deeds perpe- 
trated by the savages — but where these came 
from was a mystery. Indians had been traced 
by the scouts to the wigwams of the so-called 
friendly Indians at Conestoga, and to those 
of the Moravian Indians in Northampton 
county. Suspicion was awakened, the ques- 
tions, "are these Christian Indians treacher- 
ous? are their wigwams the harbors of our 
deadly foe? do they conceal the nightly 
prowling assassin of the forest; the villain, 
who with savage ferocity tore the innocent 
babe from the bosom of its mother, where it 
had been quietly reposing, and hurled it in 
the fire? The mangled bodies of our friends 
cry aloud for vengeance." Such were the 
questions, surmises and expressions of the 
exasperated people on the frontiers, and well 
warranted, for on one occasion when the As- 
sembly were deaf to all entreaties and peti- 
tion, with the hope of arousing their sym- 
pathy the murdered were taken to Philadel- 
phia on wagons — when a prominent Quaker, 
with a sneer, remarked they were "only 
Irish." This unfeeling expression was re- 
membered by the Scotch-Irish of the fron- 
tiers. 

The Quakers who controlled the govern- 
ment, as heretofore remarked, "seemed re- 
solved," says Parkman, "that they would 
neither defend the people of the frontier or 
allow them to defend themselves, vehemently 
inveighed against all expeditions to cut off 
the Indian marauders. Their security was 
owing to their local situation, being confined 
to the eastern part of the Province." That 
such was the case, rather than to the kind 
feelings of the Indian toward them, is shown 
by the fact that of the very few living in ex- 
posed positions, several were killed. 

The inhabitants declared openly that they 
no longer confided in f,he professions of the 
governor or his advisers in the Assembly. 
Numbers of volunteers joined the Rangers of 
Northampton, Berks, Lancaster, York and 
Cumberland, who were engaged in tracing 
the midnight assassins. On the Manor, a 
portion of land surveyed for the Proprieta- 
ries, situated in Lancaster county, near where 
the borough of Columbia is now located, was 



settled a band of squalid, miserable Indians — 
the refuse of sundry tribes. Time and again 
they were suspected of murder and thievery, 
and their movements at this crisis were closely 
watched. Strange Indians were constantly 
coming and going. 

Colonel Elder under the date of September 
13, 1763, thus wrote to Governor Hamilton, 
" I suggest to you the propriety of an imme- 
diate removal of the Indians from Conestoga 
and placing a garrison in their room. In 
case this is done, I pledge myself for the future 
security of the frontiers?' 

Subsequently, on taking charge of the 
executive affairs of the Province in October, 
Governor John Penn replied as follows: 
" The Indians of Conestoga have been rep- 
resented as innocent, helpless and depend- 
ent on this government for support. The 
faith of this government is pledged for their 
protection. I cannot remove them without 
adequate cause. The contract made with 
William Penn was a private agreement, 
afterwards confirmed hy several treaties. 
Care has been taken by the Provincial com- 
mittee that no Indians but our own visit 
Conestoga. Whatever can be faithfully exe- 
cuted under the laws shall be as faithfully 
performed ;" and yet Governor Penn in 
writing to Thomas Penn afterwards used 
this language : " Many of them," referring 
to the frontier inhabitants, " have had wives 
and children murdered and scalped, their 
houses burnt to the ground, their cattle 
destroyed, and from an easy, plentiful life 
are now become beggars. In short, not only 
in this Province, but in the neighboring 
governments is the spirit of the people in- 
veterate against the Indians." 

John Harris had previously made a simi- 
lar request : " The Indians here, I hope your 
honor will be pleased to be removed to some 
other place, as Idon't like their company." 

The Rangers finding appeals to the au- 
thorities useless, resolved on taking the law 
into their own hands. Several Indian mur- 
derers had been traced to Conestoga, and it 
was determined to take them prisoners. 
Captain Stewart, whose men ascertained this 
fact, acquainted his colonel of the object, 
who seemed rather to encourage his com- 
mand to make the trial, as an example was 
necessaiw to be made for the safety of the 
frontier inhabitants. The destruction of the 
Conestogas was not then projected. That 
was the result of the attempted capture. 
Parkman and Webster, following Rupp, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



29 



state that Colonel Elder, learning of an in- 
tent to destroy the entire tribe, as they were 
about to set off rode after them command- 
ing them to desist, and that Stewart threat- 
ened to shoot his horse. Such was not the 
case. From a letter dated Paxtang, Decem- 
ber 16, 1763, written to Governor Penn, he 
says: "On receiving intelligence the 13th 
inst., that a number of persons were as- 
sembled on purpose to go and cut off the 
Conestoga Indians, in concert with Mr. Fors- 
ter, the neighboring magistrate, I hurried 
off an express with written message to that 
party ' entreating them to desist from such 
an undertaking, representing to them the 
unlawfulness and barbarity of such an ac- 
tion ; that it's cruel and unchristian in its 
nature, and would be fatal in its conse- 
quences to themselves and families ; that 
private persons have no right to take the 
lives of any under the protection of the Leg- 
islature; that they must, if they proceeded 
in that affair, lay their accounts to meet with 
a severe prosecution, and become liable even 
to capital punishment; that they need not 
expect that the country would endeavor to 
conceal or screen them from punishment, 
but that they would be detected and given 
up to the resentment of the government.' 
These things I urged in the warmest terms 
in order to prevail with them to drop the 
enterprise, but to no purpose." 

Not to be deterred, the Rangers reached 
the Indian settlement before daylight. The 
barking of some dogs discovered them and 
a number of strange Indians rushed from 
their wigwams, brandishing their toma- 
hawks. This show of resistance was suffi- 
cient inducement for the Rangers to make 
use of their arms. In a few moments every 
Indian present fell before the unerring «fire 
of the brave frontiersmen. The act accom- 
plished, they mounted their horses and 
returned severalty to their homes. Unfortu- 
nately a number of the Indians were absent 
from Conestoga, prowling about the neigh- 
boring settlements, doubtless on predatory 
excursions. The destruction at the Manor 
becoming known, they were placed in the 
Lancaster work-house for protection. Among 
these vagabonds were two well known to 
Parson Elder's scouts. 

An express being sent to Philadelphia 
with the news, great excitement ensued, and 
Governor Penn issued a proclamation rela- 
tive thereto. Notwithstanding its fine arra}' 
of words it fell upon the Province harmless. 



Outside of the Quaker settlements everyone 
heartily approved of the measures taken by 
the Paxtang Rangers. As the governor him- 
self wrote to England : " If we had ten 
thousand of the king's troops I don't believe 
it would be possible to secure one of these 
people. Though I took all the pains I could 
even to get their names, I could not succeed, 
for indeed no one would make the discovery, 
though ever so well acquainted with them, 
and there is not a magistrate in the country 
would have touched one of them. The 
people of this town are as inveterate against 
the Indians as the frontier inhabitants. For 
it is beyond a doubt that many of the In- 
dians now in town [referring to the Mora- 
vians confined in the barracks] have been 
concerned in committing murders among 
back settlers. 

The presence of the remaining Indians at 
Lancaster also became a cause of great un- 
easiness to the magistrates and people, for as 
previously remarked, two or three were no- 
torious scoundrels. It may be here related 
that several of the strange Indians harbored 
at Conestoga, who were also absent at the 
destruction of the village, made their escape 
and reached Philadelphia, where they joined 
the Moravian Indians from Nain andWech- 
quetank, and there secreted. 

The removal of the remaining Indians 
from Lancaster was requested by the chief 
magistrate, Edward Shippen. Governor 
Penn proved very tardy, and we are of the 
opinion he cared little about them, or he 
would have 'acted promptly, as from his own 
confession he was not ignorant of the exas- 
peration of the people and the murderous 
character of the refugees. Day after day 
passed by, and the excitement throughout 
the frontiers became greater. The Rangers, 
who found that their work had been only 
half done, consulted as to what measure 
should be further proceeded with. Captain 
Stewart proposed to capture the principal In- 
dian outlaw, who was confined in the Lan- 
caster work-house, and take him to Carlisle 
jail, where he could be held for trial. This 
was heartily approved, and accordingly a 
detachment of the Rangers, variously esti- 
mated at from twenty to fifty, proceeded to 
Lancaster on the 27th of December, broke 
into the work-house, and but for the show 
of resistance would have effected their pur- 
pose. But the younger portion of the Rang- 
ers, to whom was confided this work, were so 
enraged at the defiance of the Indians that 



30 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



before their resentment could be repressed 
by Captain Stewart, the unerring rifle was 
employed, and the last of the so-called Con- 
estogas had yielded up his life. In a few 
minutes thereafter, mounting their horses, 
the daring Rangers were safe from arrest. 
George Gibson, who, from his acquaintance 
with the principal frontiersmen of his time, 
in a letter written some years after, gives the 
most plausible account of this transaction, 
which bore such an important part in the 
early history of the Province. He says: 
" No murder has been committed since the 
removal of the friendly Indians and the de- 
struction of the Conestogas — a strong proof 
that the murders were committed under the 
cloak of the Moravian Indians. A descrip- 
tion of an Indian who had; with great bar- 
barity, murdered a family on the Susque- 
hanna, near Paxtang, was sent to Lazarus 
Stewart at Lancaster. This Indian had 
been traced to Conestoga. On the day of its 
destruction he was on a hunting expedition. 
When he heard that the Rangers were in 
pursuit of him he fled to Philadelphia. The 
three or four who entered the work-house at 
Lancaster were directed by Stewart to seize 
on the murderer and give him tohischarge. 
When those outside heard the report of the 
guns within several of the Rangers alighted, 
thinking .their friends in danger, and has- 
tened to the door. The more active of the 
Indians, endeavoring to make their escape, 
were met by them and shot. No children 
were killed by the Paxtang boys. No act 
of savage butchery was committed." 

If the excitement throughout the Prov- 
ince was great after the affair at Conestoga, 
this transaction set everything in a ferment. 
" No language," says Rev. Dr. Wallace, " can 
describe the outcry which arose from the 
Quakers in Philadelphia, or the excitement 
which swayed to and fro on the frontiers and 
in the city. The Quakers blamed the gover- 
nor, the governor the Assembly, and the 
latter censured everybody except their own 
inaction." Two proclamations were issued 
by the Provincial authorities, offering re- 
wards for the seizure of those concerned in 
the destruction of the Indians; but this was 
impossible, owing to the exasperation of the 
frontiersmen, who heartily approved of the 
action of the Rangers. 

On the 27th of December the Rev. Mr. 
Elder hurriedly wrote to Governor Penn: 
" The storm, which had been so long gather- 
ing, has at length exploded. Had govern- 



ment removed the Indians from Conestoga, 
as was frequently urged without success, this 
painful catastrophe might have been avoided. 
What could I do with men heated to mad- 
ness? All that I could do was done. I ex- 
postulated, but life and reason were set at 
defiance, and yet the men in private life are 
virtuous and respectable — not cruel, but 

mild and merciful The time 

will arrive when each palliating circumstance 
will he calmly weighed. This deed, magnified 
into the blackest of crimes, shall be considered 
one of those youthful ebullitions of wrath 
caused by momentary excitement, to which hu- 
man infirmity is subjected." 

To this extenuating and warm-hearted 
letter came a reply, under date of December 
29, 1763, from the governor, requesting the 
commanders of the troops — Colonels Elder 
and Seely — to return the Provincial arms, 
etc., as their services were no longer required. 
From this letter of Governor John Penn, it 
is evident that the commissioners, or rather 
the Provincial Council, intended to punish 
both Colonel Elder and Esquire Seely, or 
that with the destruction of the Conestogas, 
there was little or no danger of Indian 
atrocities. The latter proved to be the case, 
but the authorities were cognizant of the 
fact that the Paxtang boys were correct in 
their surmisings, and that peace would fol- 
low the removal of the friendly Indians. It 
shows, also, that believing thus, the Provin- 
cial government was culpable to a great de- 
gree in allowing the Indians to remain on 
the Manor, despite the representations of 
Colonel Elder, John Harris and Edward 
Shippen. The Rev. Mr. Elder quietly laid 
by his sword, feeling confident that time 
would vindicate his course, whatever that 
may have been. 

Of the marching of the Paxtang boys tor 
ward Philadelphia, we shall briefly refer in 
this connection, and the reason therefor is 
best given by an extract from a letter of Gov- 
ernor Penn : " The 14th of this month we 
suspect a Thousand of the Rioters in Town 
to insist upon the Assembly granting their 
request with regard to the increase of Rep- 
resentatives, to put them upon an equality 
with the rest of the Counties. They have 
from time to time presented several petitions 
for the purpose, which have been always dis- 
regarded by the House ; for which reason 
they intend to come in Person." Although 
our Quaker historians have uniformly stated 
that the object of the Paxtang boys was the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



31 



massacre of the Moravian Indians in Phila- 
delphia, yet the foregoing statement of the 
Executive of the Province proves conclusively 
that their visit was not one of slaughter but 
of petition for redress of grievances. The 
narrative is one of interest to us in this sec- 
tion and the true history remains to be 
written. 

Pamphlets, says Webster, without number; 
truth or decency, poured like a torrent from 
the press. The Quakers took the pen to hold 
up the deed to execration ; and many others 
seized the opportunity to defame the Irish 
Presbyterians as ignorant bigots and lawless 
marauders. 

Violent and bitter as were the attacks of 
the Quaker pamphleteers, Parson Elder was 
only casually alluded to. With the excep- 
tion of the following, written to Colonel Burd, 
he made no attempt to reply to any of these, 
leaving his cause with God and posterity : 
" Lazarus Stewart is still threatened by the 
Philadelphia party ; he and his friends talk 
of leaving ; if they do, the Province will lose 
some of its best friends, and that by the 
faults of others, not their own ; for if any 
cruelty was practiced on the Indians at Con- 
estoga or at Lancaster, it was not by his or 
their hands. There is great reason to be- 
lieve that much injustice has been done to 
all concerned. In the contrariness of ac- 
counts, we must infer that much rests for 
support on the imagination or interest of the 
witnesses. The character of Stewart and his 
friends was well established. Ruffians, nor 
brutal, they were not; but humane, liberal 
and moral, nay, religious. It is evidently 
not the wish of the party to give Stewart a 
fair hearing. All he desires is to be put on 
trial at Lancaster, near the scenes of the hor- 
rible butcheries committed by the Indians at 
Tulpehocken, etc., where he can have the 
testimony of the scouts and rangers, men 
whose services can never be sufficiently re- 
warded. The pamphlet has been sent by my 
friends and enemies ; it failed to inflict a 
wound ; it is at least a garbled statement ; it 
carries with it the seeds of its own dissolution. 
That the hatchet was used is denied, and is 
it not reasonable to suppose that men, accus- 
tomed to the use of guns, would make use 
of their favorite weapons? 

" The inference is plain that the bodies of 
the Indians were thus mangled after death by 
certain persons to excite a feeling against 
the Paxtang boys. This fact Stewart says he 
can and will establish in a fair trial at Lan- 



caster, York or Carlisle. At any rate we are 
all suffering at present by the secret influence 
of a faction — a faction who have shown their 
love to the Indians by not exposing them- 
selves to its influence in the frontier settle- 
ments." 

The " pamphlet" alluded to in the forego- 
ing was the notorious article written by Ben- 
jamin Franklin for political effect. He 
acknowledged, in a letter to Lord Kames, 
that his object was a political one. As such, 
its tissue of falsehoods caused his defeat for 
member of the Assembly, a position he had 
held for fourteen years. Fortunately for him, 
the Revolution brought him into prominence, 
and the past was forgotten. 

This transaction was subsequently "inves- 
tigated " by the magistrate at Lancaster, but 
so condemnatory of the Indians was the evi- 
dence elicited that it ivas the Quaker policy to 
suppress and destroy it. Nevertheless all ef- 
forts to carry into effect the proclamation of 
the governor were really suspended, so far as 
his authority went, in regard to which grave 
complaints were made by the Assembly, who 
seemed to bend all their energies to prose- 
cute the offenders. 

The names of many of those brave defend- 
ers of their homes have been lost to us — but 
the frequent statement in all our histories 
that the participants in that transaction came 
to an untimely end is false. With the ex- 
ception of Lazarus Stewart, who fell on that 
unfortunate day at the massacre of Wyom- 
ing, these heroes of the frontiers lived to 
hearty old age, and several reached almost 
the hundred years of life. Their deeds were 
those of desperation, it is true, but their acts 
are to be honored and their names revered. 

The discussions which ensued may truly 
be said to have sown the seeds of the Revo- 
lution, and in a letter of Governor John 
Penn to his brother in England, written at 
this time, he thus alludes to the inhabitants 
of Paxtang, " their next move will be so sub- 
vert the government and establish one of 
their own." 

No wonder then, when the first mutterings 
of the storm was heard, that the people of 
this entire section were ripe for revolution. 
The love of liberty was a leading trait of the 
people who settled in this delightful valley. 
The tyranny and oppression of Europe 
drove them to seek an asylum among the 
primeval forests of America. Persecution 
for conscience sake compelled alike the 
Scotch-Irish and the German of the Palati- 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



nate to come hither and rear their altars 
dedicated to God and Freedom to man. With 
them Independence was as much their 
dream as the realization. Their isolated 
position — placed on the frontiers — unpro- 
tected by the Provincial authorities — early 
instilled into their minds those incentives 
to action, that when the opportune moment 
arrived they were in the van. Two years 
before the Declaration by Congress, the 
people had assembled at their respective 
places of rendezvous, and heralded forth 
their opinions in plain and unmistakable 
language, while the citizens of the large 
towns were fearful and hesitating. 

As early as the spring of 1774 meetings 
were held in the different townships, the re- 
solves of only iwo of which are preserved to 
us. The earliest was that of an assembly of 
the inhabitants of Hanover, Lancaster 
county, held on Saturday, June 4, 1774, 
Colonel Timothy Green, chairman, " to ex- 
press their sentiments on the present critical 
state of affairs." It was then and there 
" Unanimously resolved : 

"1st. That the recent action of the Par- 
liament of Great Britain is iniquitous and 
oppressive. 

"2d. That it is the bounden duty of the 
inhabitants of America to oppose every 
measure which tends to deprive them of 
their just prerogatives. 

"3d. That in a closer union of the Colonies 
lies the safeguard of the people. 

"4th. That in the event of Great Britain 
attempting to force unjust laws upon us by 
the strength of arms, our cause we leave to 
Heaven and our rifles. 

"5th. That a committee of nine be ap- 
pointed who shall act for us and in our be- 
half as emergency may require. 

"The committee consisted of Colonel Tim- 
othy Green, James Caruthers, Josiah Espy, 
Robert Dixon, Thomas Copenheffer, William 
Clark, James Stewart, Joseph Barnett and 
John Rogers." 

So much for patriotic Hanover. Follow- 
ing in the footsteps of these brave men, on 
Friday following, June 10, 1774, a similar 
meeting was held at Middletown, Colonel 
James Burd, chairman, at which these stir- 
ring resolves were concurred in, and which 
served as the text of those passed at the 
meeting at Lancaster subsequently : 

"1st. That the acts of the Parliament of 
Great Britain in divesting us of the right 



to give and grant our money, and assuming 
such power to themselves, are unconstitu- 
tional, unjust and oppressive. 

"2d. That it is an indispensable duty we 
owe to ourselves and posterity to oppose with 
decency and firmness every measure tending 
to deprive us of our just rights and privi- 
leges. 

" 3d. That a close union of the Colonies 
and their faithful adhering to such measures 
as a general congress shall judge proper are 
the most likely means to procure redress of 
American grievances and settle the rights of 
the Colonies on a permanent basis. 

" 4th. That we will sincerely and heartily 
agree to and abide by the measures which 
shall be adopted by the members of the gen- 
eral congress of the Colonies. 

" 5th. That a committee be appointed to 
confer with similar committees relative to 
the present exigency of affairs." 

Not to be behind their Scotch-Irish 
neighbors, the German inhabitants located 
in the east of the county met at Fredericks- 
town (now Hummelstown), on Saturday, the 
11th of June, at which Capt. Frederick Hum- 
mel was chairman, resolving to stand by the 
other townships in all their action. 

We say they were ripe for revolution, and 
when the stirring battle-drum aroused the 
new-born nation, the inhabitants of Dauphin 
valiantly armed for the strife. One of the 
first companies raised in the Colonies was 
that of Capt. Matthew Smith, of Paxtang. 
Within ten days after the receipt of the 
news of the battle of Lexington, this com- 
pany was armed and equipped, ready for 
service. Composing this pioneer body of 
patriots was the best blood of the county — 
the Dixons, the Elders, the Simpsons, the 
Boyds, the Harrises, the Reeds, the Tods and 
others. Archibald Steele and Michael Simp- 
son were the lieutenants. It was the second 
company to arrive at Boston, coming south 
of the Hudson river. It was subsequently 
ordered to join General Arnold in his unfor- 
tunate campaign against Quebec, and the 
most reliable account of that expedition was 
written by a member of this very Paxtang 
company, John Joseph Henry, afterwards 
president judge of Lancaster and Dauphin 
counties. They were enlisted for one year. 
The majority, however, were taken prisoners 
at Quebec, while a large percentage died of 
wounds and exposure. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



33 



CHAPTER IV. 

Historical Resume' from 1785 to 1896. 

For the part taken by Dauphin county 
(which was then a part of Lancaster county) 
in the struggle for Independence, our readers 
must refer to those volumes of the Second 
Series of Pennsylvania Archives, which 
comprise a history of the Pennsylvania 
Line, the Associators and the militia, in the 
war of the Revolution, from 1775 to 1783. 
The rolls of many of the companies which 
went out from this section and participated 
in the sanguinary conflicts and which 
achieved the independence of their country, 
are, we are glad to say, nearly complete. 
At that period the entire country was so 
bare of men that the old men, women and 
the lads of ten and twelve years, not only 
did the planting and harvesting, but took 
up arms to defend their homes in the 
threatened invasion by Indians and Tories 
after the massacre of Wyoming. A great 
majority of those who served from Paxtang, 
Derry, Hanover, Upper Paxtang and Lon- 
derry were st}'led Associators, officered by 
those of their own choosing, and serving 
short terms of duty, as called upon by the 
Supreme Executive Council. At Trenton, 
at Princeton, at Brandywine, at German- 
town, at the Crooked Billet and the Paoli, 
the militia of Dauphin county fought and 
bled and died. A glance at their names 
even shows a long line of heroes, whose 
brilliant achievements shed an undying 
glory on the patriotism of this section of 
Lancaster county in the war of the Revolu- 
tion. 

With the dawn of peace, the people of the 
county returned to their usual avocations. 
Civil affairs were taken cognizance of, and 
movements were at once made to secure the 
formation of a new county, with Harrisburg 
as the seat of justice. By the act of Assem- 
bly of March 4, 1785, the county of Dauphin 
was separated from Lancaster, its name de- 
rived from the eldest son of the then king of 
the French — France at that period, in conse- 
quence of its efficient aid to the Colonies, 
being uppermost in the affection of the peo- 
ple. The enthusiasm was unbounded, and, 
as we shall refer to hereafter, carried to ex- 
treme lengths. The name was suggested by 
the prime movers for the formation of the 
new county. The seat of justice was fixed 
at Harris' Ferry, then a village of about one 
hundred houses, although the town was not 



actually laid out or surveyed until after the 
passage of the ordinance referred to. In the 
commissions of the officers of the new county, 
the town was named Louisburgh, in honor 
of Louis XVI., suggested by Chief Justice 
Thomas M'Kean, not only on account of his 
French leanings, but to show his petty spite 
against Mr. Harris, to whom, somehow or 
other, he held political opposition. 

This act of injustice was subsequently 
remedied, when, on the 13th of April, 1791, 
the town was created a borough, by the 
name of Harrisburg. It was undecided for 
awhile whether to call the place Harris' 
Ferry or Harrisfowy?. The latter, fortunately, 
was adopted. 

On the organization of the county, Mid- 
dletown was the largest village in the 
county, and strenuous efforts were made by 
its citizens and. the inhabitants of the town- 
ships subsequently forming Lebanon county, 
to make it the seat of justice; while similar 
claims were made for the town of Lebanon, 
on account of its central location. 

The machinery of the new county was 
soon put into motion, the earliest record of 
whose courts reads thus : 

" At a court of quarter sessions, holden 
near Harris' Ferry, in and for the county of 
Dauphin," &c, on the "third Tuesday of 
May, in the year of our Lord 1785, before 
"Timothy Green, Samuel Jones and Jona- 
than M'Clure, Esqrs., justices of the same 
court." 

We may imagine the scene, in a small 
room in a log house near the " lower ferry," 
at Front and Vine streets, with a jury par- 
ticularly intelligent — an excellent set of 
county officers, and such a bar as Ross, Kit- 
tera, Chambers, Hubley, James Biddle, 
Hanna, Andrew Dunlop, Reily, Collinson 
Reed, Jasper Yeates, John Joseph Henry, 
Thomas Duncan and Thomas Smith, most 
of whom rose to occupy the highest positions 
at the bar or in the Senate — quite a show of 
famous men to start the judicial engine of 
the new county, with the net result of con- 
victing William Courtenay, a descendant of 
one of the proudest houses of England, and 
sentencing him to eighteen lashes, fifteen 
shillings fine, and " to stand in the pillory." 
This instrument of judicial vengeance stood 
about sixty yards below the grave of John 
Harris, the elder, or just above the ferry 
house, at the junction of Front and Paxtang 
streets. This, doubtless, was the exact posi- 
tion, as two or three of the first courts were 



34 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



held in a building on what is now the south- 
ern corner of Front street and Washington 
avenue. There was no citizen of Harrisburg 
on the first jury, except, perhaps, Alexander 
Berryhill, but that is not certain. Col. 
James Cowden, of Lower Paxtang township, 
was the foreman of this grand jury. 

The sheriff of Lancaster county exercised 
the same office in Dauphin county. The 
names of the jurymen were James Cowden 
(foreman), Robert Montgomery, John Gil- 
christ, Barefoot Brunson, John Clarke, Roan 
McClure, John Carson, John Wilson, William 
Crain, Archibald McAllister, Richard Dixon, 
John Parthemore, James Crouch, Jacob Awl, 
William Brown, Andrew Stewart, James 
Rogers, Samuel Stewart, John Cooper, Alex- 
ander Berryhill. Alexander Graydon was 
the first prothonotary and Anthony Kelker 
the first sheriff. 

The minutes of the second court held in 
the town are dated at "Harrisburgh," and on 
the 3d of August, 1786, the following en- 
dorsement appears on the docket : " The 
name of the county town, or seat of the 
courts, is altered from ' Harrisburgh ' to 
' Louisburgh,' in consequence of the Supreme 
Executive Council of the Commonwealth so 
styling it in the commissions of the justices 
of said town." 

The courts were held for several successive 
years in the same locality, but subsequently 
in the log house recently demolished on the 
southeast corner of Market street and Dew- 
berry alley. From here it was removed to 
its present location, except during the ses- 
sions of the Legislature from 1812 to 1822, 
when the court occupied the brick building- 
built by the county commissioners on the 
corner of Walnut street and Raspberry alley. 
The present edifice was erected in 1860. 

The act of Assembly erecting Harrisburg 
into a borough defined its limits as follows: 

"Beginning at low-water mark • on the 
eastern shore of the Susquehanna river ; 
thence by the pine-apple tree north 60^ de- 
grees, east 79 perches, to an ash tree on the 
west bank of Paxton creek ; thence b}' the 
several corners thereof 323 perches to a white 
hickory on William Maclay's line ; thence 
by the same south 67f degrees, west 212 
perches, to a marked chestnut-oak on the 
eastern bank of the Susquehanna ; thence by 
the same course to low-water mark to the 
place of beginning." 

The borough limits were extended \>y the 
act of the 16th of April, 1838, as follows : 



"The northwestern boundary line of the 
borough of Harrisburg shall be and the 
same is hereby extended and enlarged as 
follows : Extending it along the river line to 
the upper line of the land of the late Will- 
iam Maclay, on said river ; thence to Pax- 
ton creek, and thence along said creek to the 
northwestern corner to the present bound- 
ary." Thus annexing Maclaysburg, or all 
the territory included in the borough then 
lying northwest of South street. 

During the so-called Whiskey Insurrec- 
tion, 1794, Harrisburg became quite promi- 
nent, it being on the great thoroughfare to 
the western counties. The court house was 
then building, and some of the sympathizers 
with the anti-excise men beyond the moun- 
tains hoisted a French flag on that structure. 
Of course this gave offense and it was quietly 
removed. Several arrests were made of in- 
dividuals who expressed sympathy for the 
western insurgents — one of whom, Major 
Swiney, was confined in prison for nearly a 
year, when he was released without trial. 
Governor Mifflin, who was an excellent 
stump speaker, made one of his character- 
istic addresses here, and in two days time no 
less than three companies from the town 
were on their march to Carlisle. When 
Governor Howell, of New Jersey, and his 
brilliant staff remained over night, they 
were so hospitably entertained by the citi- 
zens that he returned his thanks in special 
orders. On Friday, the 3d of October, when 
the President, the great and good Washing- 
ton, approached the town, he was met by a 
large concourse of the people and the enthu- 
siasm was unbounded: The worthy bur- 
gesses, Conrad Bombaugh and Alexander 
Berryhill, presented the address of the town, 
to which the chief magistrate briefly replied, 
bearing " testimony to the zealous and ef- 
ficient exertions " they had made. That 
evening he held a reception at his head- 
quarters, where the principal citizens em- 
braced the opportunity of paying their re- 
spects to the venerated chieftain. On the 
morning of the 4th he crossed the river at 
the upper ferry, which was fifty yards above 
the present Harrisburg bridge. 

About this period came the fever of 1793-5 
and the mill-dam troubles. For two years 
previous a disease of a malignant type pre- 
vailed during the summer season in the bor- 
ough. Its origin was proved beyond doubt 
to be due to a mill-dam located in what is 
now the first ward of the city, on Paxtang 





GEN. JOSEPH F. KNIPE. 



GEN. E. C. WILLIAMS. 





MAJ. C. C. DAVIS. 



GEN. T. J. JORDAN. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



37 



creek. In 1793, during the prevalence of 
the yellow fever in Philadelphia, it was 
thought and even pronounced such. Quite 
a number of Irish emigrants died, and al- 
though many of the inhabitants were at- 
tacked there were no fatal cases among 
them. This was proof positive that the 
endemic was due to the damming up of the 
Paxtang creek, which was always " dead 
water " (its Indian significance), producing 
malarial poisoning. The ancestors, reason- 
ing rightly, their next move was to get rid 
of the nuisance. Meetings were held, com- 
mittees were appointed, funds raised and 
tendered to the owners of the mill, Peter 
and Abraham Landis, the amount demanded 
by them the previous 3'ear for their property. 
The impecunious millers now required a 
greater sum, but the citizens positively refused, 
and at a public meeting they resolved that a 
further tender be made the Landises and 
in case of refusal to "prostrate the dam and 
pay, if necessary, the "porportionable parts 
of all legal expenses and damages that 
might accrue on any suits or indictments 
which might be brought or prosecuted in 
consequence of such acts." The forefathers 
were not to be trifled with, and suiting the 
action to the word, met at a given hour and 
opened the dam. Eventually the parties 
compromised — the Landises accepted a cer- 
tain sum and the town secured the mill 
right. The valuable papers relating to this 
interesting epoch in the history of Harris- 
burg are in the possession of the Dauphin 
County Historical Society. The entire trans- 
action was creditable to the ancient Harris- 
burger, and the decendants of the men who 
then stood up for the rights of the people 
are among the most prominent of our citi- 
zens to-day. 

In 1798, when a war with France was im- 
minent and a call made by the General 
Government on Pennsylvania for troops, an 
unusual excitement was created, and several 
companies tendered their services to the 
governor. The storm blew over, and as in 
1807, when a war was threatened with Great 
Britain — no occasion for troops were re- 
quired until five years later — when the sec- 
ond struggle with England took place. 
Among the prominent military organiza- 
tions which armed for the conflict were the 
companies of Captains Thomas Walker, Rich- 
ard M. Crain, John Carothers, Jeremiah 
Rees, Thomas M'llhenny, Peter Snyder, John 
B. Moorhead, James Todd, Richard Knight, 



John Elder, Isaac Smith, Philip Fedderhoff 
and Gawen Henry, quite a formidable array. 
Some of these marched as far as Baltimore 
at the time of the British attack on that 
city, while others went no farther than 
York. None of these companies had an op- 
portunity to meet the enemy on the san- 
guinary field — but Dauphin county men 
composed the major portion of two com- 
panies which joined the Canada expedition. 
The heroes of this conflict are nearly all 
passed from off the stage of life. Following 
in the footsteps of the fathers of the Revolu- 
tion, they emulated their heroism and de- 
votion to the liberties of their country. 

The removal of the seat of government to 
Harrisburg, although suggested as early as 
1787, and often moved in the Assembly, did 
not prove successful until by the act of Feb- 
ruary, 1810, when " the offices of the State 
government were directed to be removed to 
the borough of Harrisburg, in the county 'of 
Dauphin," "within the month of October, 
1812," and " the sessions of the Legislature 
thereafter to be held." The first sessions of 
the Assembly were held in the court house, 
and that body continued to occupy the build- 
ing until the completion of the capitol. 

No historical resume of Dauphin county 
can be called complete without some refer- 
ence to the so-called "Buckshot War" of 
1838. At the October election of that year 
David R. Porter, of Huntingdon, was chosen 
governor, after a hotly contested political 
canvass, over Governor Ritner. The defeated 
part}' issued an ill-timed and ill-advised ad- 
dress, advising their friends "to treat the 
election as if it had not been held." It was 
determined, therefore, to investigate the elec- 
tion, and to do this the political complexion 
of the Legislature would be decisive. The 
majority of the Senate was Anti-Masonic, but 
the control of the House of Representatives 
hinged upon the admission of certain mem- 
bers from Philadelphia whuse seats were con- 
tested. The votes of one of the districts in 
that city were thrown out by reason of fraud, 
and the Democratic delegation returned. 
The Anti-Masonic return judges refused to 
sign the certificates, " and both parties made 
out returns each for a different delegation, 
and sent them to the Secretary of the Com- 
monwealth." The Democratic returns were 
correct, and should have been promptly re- 
ceived "without question." 

When the Legislature met, the Senate or- 
ganized by the choice of Anti-Masonic officers. 



38 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



In the House a fierce struggle ensued, both 
delegations claiming seats. The consequence 
was that each party went into an election for 
speaker, each appointing tellers. Two 
speakers were elected and took their seat 
upon the platform— William Hopkins being 
the choice of the Democrats and Thomas S. 
Cunningham of the opposition. The Demo- 
crats believing that they were in the right, 
left out of view the rejection of the votes of 
the Philadelphia district. However, when 
the returns from the Secretary's office were 
opened, the certificate of the minority had 
been sent in, thus giving the advantage to 
the Anti-Masons. It was then a question 
which of the two Houses would be recognized 
by the Senate and the Governor. 

At this stage of the proceedings, a num- 
ber of men (from Philadelphia especially) 
collected in the lobby and when the Senate 
after organization proceeded to business, in- 
terrupted it by their disgraceful and menac- 
ing conduct. The other branch of the Leg- 
islature was in like manner disturbed, and 
thus both Houses were compelled to dis- 
perse. The crowd having taken possession 
of the halls proceeded to the court house, 
where impassioned harangues were indulged 
in and a committee of safety appointed. For 
several days all business was suspended and 
the governor, alarmed for his own personal 
safety, ordered out the militia, and fearing 
this might prove insufficient, called on the 
United States authorities for help. The latter 
refused, but the militia under Major Generals 
Patterson and Alexander came promptly in 
response. For two or three days during this 
contest, the danger of a collision was immi- 
nent, but wiser counsels prevailed, and the 
Senate having voted to recognize the section 
of the House presided over by Mr. Hopkins, 
the so-called " Insurrection at Harrisburg " 
was virtually ended. This was what is com- 
monly known as the " Buckshot War." 

In the war with Mexico, consequent upon 
the annexation of Texas, among the troops 
which went out to that far-off land to vindi- 
cate the honor of our country and preserve 
its prestige, was the Cameron Guards, under 
command of Capt. Edward C.Williams. They 
made a good record, their heroic conduct at 
Cerro Gordo, Chapultepec and the Garreta de 
Belina, won for them high renown and the 
commendation of their venerated com- 
mander-in-chief. Scarce a corporal's guard 
remains of that gallant band. 

Coming down to later times, when the 



perpetuity of the Union was threatened and 
the great North rose up like a giant in its 
strength to crush secession and rebellion, the 
events are so fresh in the remembrance of 
all that we shall only refer to them in brief. 
The first public meeting held after the firing 
upon Fort Sumter in the State of Pennsylva- 
nia, and in fact the first in any northern city, 
was in the court house at Harrisburg, Gen. 
Simon Cameron being chairman thereof. 
Dauphin county, foremost in tendering men 
and means to the government for the bitter, 
deadly strife, furnished her full quota of 
volunteers. Twice Harrisburg was the ob- 
jective point of the Confederate troops, and at 
one time (June, 1863) the enemy's picket 
was within two miles of the city. Active 
preparations were made for its defense and 
fortifications erected on the bluff opposite, 
and named " Fort Washington." This was 
the only fortification deserving a name 
erected in any of the Northern States. Rifle 
pits were dug along the banks of the river, 
in front of Harris Park, and every prepara- 
tion made to give the enemy a warm recep- 
tion. The Union victory at Gettysburg 
checked the further advance of the Confed- 
erates and with it the last attempts to invade 
the North. It would take volumes to re- 
hearse not only the heroism of the sons of 
Dauphin county on the battlefield, but the 
deeds of mercy and charity and love of the 
noble-hearted women. We need not speak 
of the gallantry of the lamented Simmons 
and the six hundred brave dead — stricken 
down on the field of battle, in the hospital or 
in the loathsome prison, or yet of the heroes 
only a few of whom are living — Knipe and 
Jennings, the Awls, Porter, Williams and 
Jordan, Witman and Davis, Detweiler, Mc- 
Cormick and Alleman, Savage, Geety and 
Hummel, and many others — a long line of 
illustrious names — officers and privates of 
that immense force which Dauphin county 
sent out from her midst for the preservation 
of the Union. The location of the first and 
greatest military camp in the Northern 
States was within the limits of Harrisburg — 
named hj Generals Knipe and Williams in 
honor of the Chief Magistrate of Pennsyl- 
vania, Camp Curtin, which with being the 
central point of communication, especially 
with the oft-beleagured Federal Capital made 
it a prominent rendezvous. From the com- 
mencement of the war, the charity of the 
citizens was unbounded and without stint, 
the doors of hospitality freely opened, and to 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



39 



our honor be it said, two citizens, Messrs. 
John B. Simon and Eby Byers, established 
the Soldiers' Rest, where the sick and 
wounded patriot, on his way homeward, 
found rest, and refreshment and gentle care. 
Thousands were kindly ministered to, and 
until the " boys came marching home " the 
good work went on unabated. In every 
cemetery and graveyard within the borders 
of Dauphin county lie the remains of her 
brave and true sons, while in the cemetery 
at Harrisburg the grass grows green over the 
graves of Union and Confederate soldiers 
from far-off States. In all the struggles for 
life, for liberty, for right and for the Union, 
Dauphin county has been in the van. But 
these dark days of our country have passed 
like " a dream that has been told." May 
the lesson taught be heeded by those who 
come after us — that the Union of States is 
not a rope of sand which may be broken at 
the will of any section. 

The subject of international improvements 
was one which early commanded the atten- 
tion of the citizens of Pennsylvania, and one 
hundred years ago, as now, communication 
with the western country was the great aim 
of the business men of Philadelphia. The 
first effort was the removal of obstructions in 
the various streams, and especially that of 
the Susquehanna river; and although a con- 
siderable amount of money was eventually 
spent in improving the navigation thereof, 
the result was far from satisfactory. Previ- 
ous to the Revolution (1774), the attention of 
the Provincial Assembly was called to this 
matter, and as a preliminary it was proposed 
to lay out a town or city on that stream. 
John Harris, the founder of our city, imme- 
diately gave notice of his intention of laying 
out a town, which seemed to quiet the move- 
ment of undoubted land speculators. The 
Revolution coming on, such enterprises, if 
ever seriously considered, were abandoned. 
No sooner, however, came peace, than the 
business activity of the people sought out new 
channels — roads were made, attempts at 
slackwater navigation ventured on— until 
finally the Pennsylvania canal, from Colum- 
bia to Pittsburgh, opened up an avenue to 
trade, and brought prosperity to all the towns 
on its route. On none had it better effect 
than Middletown and Harrisburg, and the 
former place at one period was destined to 
retain a supremacy in population, enterprise, 
wealth and influence. It was a great lum- 
ber mart; the Union canal and its admira- 



ble location always made it a rival to the 
capital city. 

Previous to the opening of the Pennsylva- 
nia canal the transportation facilities of the 
town were confined to Troy coaches or stages 
for passengers and Conestoga wagons, great 
lumbering vehicles with semi-circular tops 
of sail-cloth, drawn by six stalwart horses, 
for goods of various descriptions. This was 
expensive — and the completion of the public 
improvements was an eventful era in the 
progress and development of this locality. 
Real estate advanced, commission and other 
merchants established themselves on the line 
of the canal, rope and boat manufactories 
were erected and various enterprises inaugu- 
rated, giving new life to the town and thrift 
and prosperity to the people. Several lines 
of passenger packets were established, and it 
was considered a wonderful thing when four 
packet boats arrived and departed in a single 
day. The consuming of three days and a 
half to go to Pittsburgh began to be deemed 
slow, and the building of railroads opened 
up another era in the development of the 
country. In September, 1836, the first train 
of cars entered the limits of Harrisburg over 
the Harrisburg, Portsmouth, Mount Joy and 
Lancaster railroad. Following this effort, 
other rapid transit enterprises were carried 
forward to completion until at the present 
time — when no less than one hundred trains 
of passenger cars arrive and leave Harris- 
burg daily for different points. We give 
these facts to show not only how great the 
travel, but the wonderful progress made in 
transit. 

In the year 1860 Harrisburg received its 
highest corporate honors — that of a city. 
Although at the time arousing much oppo- 
sition, yet its subsequent growth and pros- 
perity have fully realized the fondest expec- 
tations of its earnest advocates. In popula- 
tion it ranks the sixtli in the State, and in 
manufacturinginterests it is the third — Pitts- 
burgh and Philadelphia alone exceeding it — 
while in the Union it ranks high among the 
inland cities. Its citizens are proud of its 
prosperity, of its importance and its high 
social position, and look forward to the time 
when the " Greater Harrisburg " will take 
prominent place among the cities of the 
American Union. 

On the 19th of July, 1877_, while the gov- 
ernor and commander-in-chief of the forces 
of Pennsylvania was on his way to visit the 
Pacific Coast, a general strike was inaugu- 



40 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



rated by the employes of nearly all the rail- 
roads in the United States. In many por- 
tions of the Commonwealth the municipal 
and county authorities failed to restore traffic, 
and for several days the rioters, for such 
many proved tobe.had control of affairs. The 
burning of the round-house depot, and cars 
at Pittsburgh, and the attack of a reckless 
and infuriated mob upon the soldiery at 
that place, gave cause for great uneasiness 
and alarm. Travel was suspended on all 
the railroads centering at Harrisburg. 

Sunday, the 22d, was one of great suspense. 
The authorities, however, were quietly pre- 
paring for the emergency. That evening, 
one by one, the City Grays found their way 
to the arsenal, which had been defenseless. 
On Monday the Mexican trophy cannon 
were duly spiked, but the mob, increased by 
tramps, showed signs of disquiet, and affairs 
were assuming such a situation that became 
suddenly alarming. The sheriff, Colonel 
Jennings, returned to Harrisburg on Mon- 
day afternoon and found the city in the 
power of the mob ; the proclamation of the 
mayor of the day previous availing little. 
The sheriff met the committee of citizens, 
and when Mayor Patterson informed him 
that his power to quiet affairs had been ex- 
hausted, at once took measures to preserve 
peaceand quiet and restore order. A pro- 
clamation was issued calling upon the law- 
abiding citizens to aid him in the faithful 
discharge of his duty. The city was placed 
under military rule, and the sheriff sum- 
moned all reputable citizens for the support 
of "law and order." 

In the afternoon quite a number of Phila- 
delphia soldiers, who had reached Fairview 
on the west side of the Susquehanna, sur- 
rendered their arms to a handful of the 
rioters, who, with increasing numbers, 
brought the former to the city, marching 
them through Market street to the depot. 
It was a pitiable sight, and only proved 
what was in store had not the prompt meas- 
ures of Colonel Jennings checked this ebulli- 
tion of outlawry. 

On Monday night the rioters, several hun- 
dred in number, began breaking into the 
stores, ostensibly for guns, but in reality for 
pillage. At this juncture the sheriff gath- 
ered the citizens, and placing himself at their 
head came upon the mob, who soon dis- 
persed, while upwards of thirty were arrested 
and placed in prison. On Tuesday twelve 
hundred of the citizens organized into" law 



and order " companies, paraded through the 
city, and from that time, during the emer- 
gency, the citizens patrolled the city, pre- 
serving order, without calling to their assist- 
ance the military. Governor Hartranft, in 
the subsequent message to the Assembly, 
highly complimented the example of theoffi- 
cers and the citizens of the Capital City. 

In the meantime the military gathered for 
the defense of the different railroads so as to 
insure peace and restore traffic, and when 
this was accomplished the citizen-soldiery 
returned to their homes. 

One of the most important events con- 
nected with the erection of the county of 
Dauphin, and the founding of the city of 
Harrisburg, was the celebration of their one 
hundredth anniversary. As the act for 
erecting part of the count}' of Lancaster into 
a separate county, to be called the county of 
Dauphin, was passed March 4, 1785, at noon 
Wednesday, March 4, 1885, the bells and 
whistles throughout the county announced 
the completion of the first centennial of its 
existence. On the 14th of April, 1885, the 
founding of the city was celebrated by the 
Dauphin County Historical Society. But 
owing to circumstances, which it is not 
necessary here to particularize, the time for 
the general celebration was fixed for the 
second week in September, 1885. On Sun- 
day, September 13, 1885, commemorative 
discourses were delivered in nearly all of 
the churches of the city and county, while 
interesting services suitable to the occasion 
were held in the various Sunday-schools. 
The first day's celebration on Monday, Sep- 
tember 14, was called " Children's Day," 
when over fivethousand pupilsof the various 
schools marched in procession to Harris 
Park, where open exercises were held. At 
noon of that day in the court house commem- 
orative addresses were delivered by the Gov- 
ernor of the Commonwealth, Robert E. Pat- 
tison, the Hon. John W. Simonton, judge of 
the District, Simon Cameron Wilson, mayor 
of the city of Harrisburg, Judge Hiester, 
Major Mumma and others. In the evening 
at the same place, the historical address was 
made by Judge McPherson, followed by the 
centennial poem by Dr. Charles C. Bom- 
baugh, a native of Harrisburg, with remarks 
by General Cameron and Governor Ramsey, 
of Minnesota! The second day, Tuesday, 
was " Military and Civic Day." In display 
and the number of men in line, in connection 
with the magnificent weather and the large 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



41 



attendance, the enthusiasm was exceedingly 
great. The third day, Wednesday, was 
" Industrial Day," and the county and city 
covered themselves with glory ; proud, in- 
deed, of their achievements, and grateful 
that their people gave such evidence of the 
respect of the world. The fourth day, Thurs- 
day, was given to the firemen, who wound 
up the celebration with real centennial 
splendor. Over and above all, however, 
was the antiquarian display, which had been 
inaugurated by the Dauphin County Histor- 
ical Society and which has been conceded to 
have been the most unique, as it was the 
most successful exhibition of the kind ever 
held in this or any other country. The ex- 
tent of the exhibition was of a marvelous 
character and the wonder and surprise of 
the citizens, as well as of the strangers within 
the city's gates. The entire centennial 
anniversary proved one of the greatest suc- 
cesses in the history of modern times. Per- 
chance no public manifestation or display of 
any character did so much to benefit a city 
as the celebration of 1885. Through its 
industrial parade it showed to the world the 
resources of the city and county, and the 
grand successes of its varied industries. 
Shortly after aboard of trade was organized, 
and through it much has been done to make 
Harrisburg one of the greatest manufacturing 
cities in the Union. 

The " Greater " Harrisburg is approaching. 
The first clamor for admission to the mu- 
nicipality was from the township on the 
north — the site of that historic spot, "Camp 
Curtin." Other sections will no doubt soon 
follow. The ordinance of November 28, 1895, 
extending the boundaries reads : 

"That all that piece or parcel of land be- 
ginning at a point in the center of Cameron 
street, thirty-five feet (35) north of the south 
side of Maclay street ; thence westwardly 
along Maclay street and thirty-five (35) feet, 
north of the south side of Maclay street, and 
by this line continued across Susquehanna 
river, to low water mark on the west shore 
of the Susquehanna river, about nine thou- 
sand, six hundred and seventy feet (9,670) ; 
thence northwardly along the west shore of 
the Susquehanna river, and the low water 
line of the same, about six thousand, one 
hundred and ten (6,110) feet to the center of 
Park lane extended ; thence eastwardly by 
the center of Park lane extended and the 
center of Park lane about nine thousand, six 
hundred and fifty (9,650) feet to the center of 



Cameron street, as laid out on the City Offi- 
cial Plat; thence southwardly through the 
center of Cameron street, about three thou- 
sand, four hundred and forty (3,440) feet, to 
the place of beginning, containing one thou- 
sand and sixty acres, more or less, and being 
a part of the township of Susquehanna." 

Before concluding this historical iesuine 
of Dauphin county it is eminently proper 
that some allusion be made to the intellect- 
ual and religious culture of our people. The 
pioneer settlers who opened up this region 
of country to civilization were not adven- 
turers, but they came to America for reli- 
gious liberty, and they planted a new gov- 
ernment in this western world, resting upon 
the immutable foundations of education and 
Christianity. Whether Scotch-Irish or Ger- 
man, they brought with them their Bible, 
their minister and their school teacher, and 
to-day, in referring to the educational history 
of Dauphin count}', the results must speak 
for themselves. Although within the limits 
of the county there are no extensive educa- 
tional institutions, yet, from border to bor- 
der, the public school system gives to ever}' 
one the advantages of a high education. 
Over half a million of dollars is annually 
expended for tuition and the erection of 
school buildings. One-sixth of the popula- 
tion is in attendance upon the schools, and 
the facilities in the larger cities for educa- 
tional advancement are such as to fit the 
pupils either for the ordinary business walks 
of life or for the advanced curriculum of the 
leading colleges and universities of America. 

As to the religious training of the early 
settlers, one need only refer to the churches 
as almost coeval with the coming of the first 
pioneer. Prior to 1725 the Presbyterian 
churches of Derry, Paxtang and Hanover 
were in a state of organization. These have 
had a remarkable history, but the limits of 
this brief sketch will not allow more than 
this allusion. Following these early land- 
marks of the Scotch -Irish settlement came 
the organization of the Reformed and Lu- 
theran churches. With them in order came 
others, until now within the limits of the 
county, on every hillside and in every nook 
and corner of its towns and townships, can 
be recognized the achievements of the fath- 
ers, who have bequeathed to us the blessings 
of literary culture and religious freedom. 
Keeping pace with these Christian move- 
ments, benevolent institutions have sprung 
up in all parts of the city and county. Few 



42 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



districts in any State of the Union are better 
provided than our own county with the ad- 
vantages the people of to-day possess and 
enjoy. 



Origin of Dauphin County Names of 
Places. 

Dauphin county was formed of part of 
Lancaster, part of Berks, comprised all of 
the present Lebanon county from 1785 to 
1813. It was named after the oldest son of 
Louis XVI., whose official title was " The 
Dauphin." Its official population 1890, 96,- 
977. 

Harrisburg, from the owner of the site of 
the town, the second John Harris. For 
several years after 1785 the name in all of- 
ficial documents is " Louisburg," in honor 
of the King of France. The French Revo- 
lution came to aid public opinion and its 
proper name was restored. It was incorpo- 
rated as a borough in 1791, and as a city 
in 1860. Its population in 1890, 39,385; 
1896, nearly 55,000. It has been the seat of 
government of Pennsylvania since 1812, 
and the seat of justice since the formation of 
the county. 

Paxtang was one of the original town- 
ships, formed August 17, 1729. The name 
is derived from the Indian stream passing 
through it. The township covered part of 
the present county of Lebanon as far as Rac- 
coon creek. Derry also trespassed on its ad- 
joining neighbor, Lebanon township, but was 
limited in 1813 to the present Derry, Lon- 
donderry and Conewago. In the ancient 
surveys it appears to have comprised a greater 
area, as far east as the Quitopahilla creek, 
now in Lebanon county. 

Derry. — -One of the original townships 
formed August 17, 1729, from the town of 
that name, in the Province of Ulster, Ire- 
land. Population, 2,288. It has several 
post-offices, Swatara, Vain, Waltonville, and 
Derry Church, the latter in the neighbor- 
hood of the most ancient church in Dau- 
phin county. 

Hanover. — The three townships of this 
name preserve the memory of the house of 
Hanover, in the days when those who named 
them were loyal subjects of the English 
kings of that insignificant German Electo- 
rate. The original Hanover was formed in 
1737. Then as follows: 

East Hanover was formed 1785 — popula- 
tion, 1890, 1,428. 



West Hanover formed 1785— population, 
1890, 1,013. 

South Hanover formed 1842 — population, 
1890, 1,062. 

Union Deposit, in South Hanover, was 
originally Union ville or Uniontown. Its pro- 
prietors, Isaac Hershey and Philip Wolfers- 
berger, when they laid it out in 1845, were 
at a loss for a name. The post-office depart- 
ment stepped in, deciding that it should be 
" Union Deposit P. O." 

Hoernerstown, from the family of that 
name, in South Hanover. 

Manadaville, from Manada creek, where 
it joins the Swatara in South Hanover. 

Sandbeach is a post-office in South Han- 
over. 

Gi'antville, from U. S. Grant, President of 
the United States. It is in East Hanover. 

Earleysville, formerly Schell's " West Han- 
over post-office," although the village is in 
East Hanover township. 

Manada Hill, in West Hanover, from 
Manada creek. It is a post-office. 

Hummelstown. — Laid out by Frederick 
Hummel in 1762. He called it " Fredericks- 
town," but the present name soon superseded 
that. It was incorporated in 1874. The 
population is 1,486. 

Londonderry township, from the county 
of that name in the north of Ireland ; formed 
in February, 1768, originally bounded on 
the west by Derry and south by Conewago 
creek. This was changed in 1826, when 
its present boundaries were fixed. 

Geinburg in this township, from a Ger- 
man family who came to Londonderry about 
1762, and whose family burial ground is 
north of Middletown and Lancaster turn- 
pike. The site of the graveyard is in culti- 
vation of crops by the present owners; some 
tombstones are yet scattered over its site. 

Port Royal, in the same township, near 
the confluence of the Susquehanna river 
and the Swatara creek, was laid out in the 
expectation of becoming a considerable 
town. Hence the high-sounding name. 

Conewago township, formed April 2, 1850, 
from Londonderrjr, and named from the 
creek which divides Dauphin from Lancas- 
ter. Population, 872. 

Bachmanville, named after a family of 
that name, is the site of a post-office. 

Deodate is also a post-office in this town- 
ship. 

Swatara township, named from the creek 
on its southern border in 1799, when it was 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



43 



formed. In 1840, upon the formation of 
Lower Swatara, its boundaries were fixed 
as they are now. Its total population in 
1890 was 3,329, including Oberlin, formerly 
Churchville, and Highland, now Enhaute 
post-office. 

Steelton, from the great iron establish- 
ment there. It was incorporated in 1878 
and had a population of 9,250 in 1890 ; now, 
1896, well nigh 14,000, including Ewington. 

Lower Swatara was formed in 1840 from 
Swatara proper. Middletown was a borough 
long before its formation. Population of the 
township, not including Highspire, in 1890, 
was 793. 

Highspire. — One tradition goes that this 
striking name was given by Dautermann or 
Barnes, who laid out the lots in 1813, from 
Spires in Germany, the birthplace of Dau- 
termann. A borough with a population in 
1890 of 971, now, 1896, claiming nearly 
1,500. 

Middletown received its name on account 
of its being nearly equi-distant from Lan- 
caster and Carlisle, the great interior towns 
of the Province, when John Fisher began to 
survey lots in 1759. In 1761 he had sold 
thirty lots to actual settlers. This is the 
oldest town and second in population in the 
county ; was formed into a borough in 1828. 
Its population, 1890, 5,080. 

The Paxtang of 1729 has now dwindled to 
Lower Paxtang, which it became in 1767, 
when Upper Paxtang was formed. Popula- 
tion, including Linglestown, 1,517. 

Linglestown was "St. Thomas post-office" 
for a number of years. The land upon 
which it is built was owned by Thomas 
Lingle, who set off a village plot as early as 
1765. 

Susquehanna, a township named for the 
river, its western boundary. It was formed 
January 30,1815. The population was in, 
1890, 3^653, reduced in 1896 by extending 
the northern boundaries of the city of Har- 
risburg. 

Rockville., " Fort Hunter post-office," is a 
village of perhaps 300 persons. It was laid 
out in 1838. 

Estherton [Coxestown], from one of the 
wives of Col. Cornelius Cox, owner of the 
land. It was laid out about 1765, and prior 
to the Revolution was a more important 
place than it has been since. 

Progress, upon the supposition that it was 
to be a progressive town, in a very rural lo- 
cality. It is a post-office. 



Upper Paxtang township was formed in 
1765 and covered all of the county above, 
north of thelvittatinny mountain. It is now 
of moderate area, with a population of 1,494 
in 1890. 

Killinger, a post-office named after Hon. 
John W. Killinger, is in this township. Pax- 
ton is also another post-office named after 
an English family of that name in Bucks 
county. 

' Millersburg, in Upper Paxtang, laid out 
by Daniel Miller in 1807 and called for him. 
It is a borough with a population of 1,527. 

Halifax township, formed in 3 803, and 
named for the old Provincial fort of 1756 of 
that name. Its population is 1,208. 

Matamoras, from the Mexican town of 
that name on the Rio Grande. When the 
town was laid out, General Taylor and Mata- 
moras occupied the attention of the whole 
country. Hence the name. 

Powell's Valley is a post-office in Halifax 
township. 

Halifax borough contains a population of 
515. It was laid out in 1794 on land of 
George Winter by George Scheffer and Peter 
Rice, but seems to have fallen into other 
hands before its plot was recorded. It occu- 
pies the site of the fort of 1756, named for 
Lord Halifax by ColonelsClapham and Burd, 
who superintended its erection. 

Middle Paxtang township was formed in 
1787. Its population is 1,327. 

Ellendale is a post-office in this township. 

Dauphin was first Port Lyon, afterwards 
Greensburg, after Judge Innis Green, who 
owned the land and laid it into lots in 1824. 
It was erected into a borough in 1854. 
Population, 740. 

Jackson township was formed August 23, 
1828, and named for the then President, 
Andrew Jackson. Its population is 1,137. 

Jacksonville in this township, official]}' 
"Enders"' post-office, was laid out about 
1825 on land formerly of George Enders. 

Fisherville, laid out in 1854, named for 
the late Major George Fisher. A joke about 
this locality long time ago was, that in time 
of war it would be a safe place " for the loca- 
tion of the Federal Government." At a 
more modern date a distinguished member 
of Congress from this district gravely pro- 
posed that if Washington was a dangerous 
locality, Fisherville, in Dauphin county, was 
a safe one. As no one had ever heard of 
the town, the suggestion was not seriously 
considered by the alarmed strategists of 



44 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



1863. It is in Jackson township, and is a 
post town. 

Washington township, named for the 
illustrious first President of the United 
States, was formed September 3, 1845. 
Its population is 1,698, including Elizabeth- 
ville (named for the wife of the owner of the 
land) village, a post-office. 

Washington Square is its near neighbor 
on the Lykens Valley railroad. 

Short Mountain is another village at which 
there is a post-office named from the coal 
mines in its immediate vicinity. 

Reed township, the smallest township in 
Dauphin county, named for William Reed, 
who lived about midway between Clark's 
Ferry and Halifax. His son, William Reed, 
resides in the old homestead. Previous to 
being called Reed township it was Penn 
election district, formed of portions of Mid- 
dle Paxtang and Halifax April 6, 1849. 
When the township was erected the portion 
of Middle Paxtang reverted to the original 
township. Population in 1890, 267. 

Benvenue, a post-office with a fancy name, 
probably from the Scotch for mountain, and 
good entertainment therewith. "Choniata" 
would be a better Americanism. 

Wiconisco township, named for the stream 
of that name, was formed in July 2, 1839. 
Its population is 2,280. 

AViconisco village (laid out in 1848) and 
post-office, named for the township. 

Lykens is a borough with a population of 
2,450. It was laid out in 1848 by Edward 
Gratz, and is the principal town of the Ly- 
kens Valley coal district. 

Lykens township was so named for one of 
the earliest settlers of the locality, and was 
formed in 1810. Erdman post-office is in this 
township. 

Williams township, formed February 7, 
1869, named for an early settler. Its popu- 
lation is 1,485. 

Williamstown, a post-office and thriving 
borough. Population, 2,324. 

Rush township, formed October 23, 1819. 
The least populous of the townships, con- 
taining only 151 inhabitants, named for 
Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration 
of Independence. 

Mifflin township, named for Governor 
Thomas Mifflin, and formed October 22, 1818. 
Population, 546. Rife and Speeeeville are 
post-offices in this township. 

Berrysburg, originally called Hellerstown, 
a borough of 1871 in this township, named 



for a family of that name. This village 
has 426 inhabitants. 

Uniontown, at first called Snydertown, of- 
ficially Pillow P. 0., after Gen. Gideon J. 
Pillow, a soldier of the Mexican war, formed 
in 1864. Population, 333. 

Curtin, for Governor Andrew G. Curtin, is 
a post-office. Mifflin township has therefore 
five post-offices. 

Jefferson township, named for Thomas 
Jefferson and formed April 23, 1842. Popu- 
lation, 317. Carsonville is a post-office in this 
township. 

Gratz borough was laid out in 1805 by 
Simon Gratz, incorporated in 1852. Popu- 
lation in 1890, 490. 

Wayne township, named for the gallant 
Gen. Anthony Wayne, is the youngest of the 
townships, formed from the east and most 
populous portion of Jefferson in May, 1878. 
Population, 512. 

Enterline, named for a family of that 
name; also in this township. Waynesville 
P. O. is in Wayne. 

Penbrook, the latest incorporated borough 
in the count}'. It adjoins Harrisburg on the 
east. 

Having reviewed the various civil sub-di- 
visions of the countj', we turn to an expla- 
nation and description of its valleys and 
streams. 

On the south are Conewago creek and val- 
ley. The stream is found on all early charts, 
spelled as at present. 

Then we have the superb Swatara and its 
fertile valley. It enters the county in East 
Hanover and finishes its course at Middle- 
town. The old Union canal was laid out on 
its northern bank. Its tributaries are Bow, 
Manada and Beaver creeks. All early sur- 
veys give the same names. 

The Paxtang has its source near Lingles- 
town and discharges itself into the Susque- 
hanna at Harrisburg. It is so spelled in the 
eariy surveys and should be so now, although 
it is frequently written Paxton. 

Fishing creek has its source in West Han- 
over and discharges itself at Fort Hunter. 
It is almost entirely in Middle Paxtang. 

Stony creek, the origin of the name is 
verv patent. Its whole course is turbulent, 
over a rocky bed, crowded into the narrow 
valley between the Kittatinny and Sharp 
mountains. It discharges itself at Dauphin. 
Clark's creek and valley, named, for the 
Clark family who settled there about 1728. 
Its source is in Schuylkill county, through 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



45 



Rush and Middle Paxtang, to the Susque- 
hanna above Dauphin. The valley is very 
narrow. 

Powell's creek and valley, named for a 
family of that name who settled near its 
mouth about 1760, perhaps at an earlier 
date. Parts of the valley are quite fertile. 
Its source is in Jefferson township. 

Armstrong creek, named for the first settler 
in that locality, takes source in Jackson 
township and discharges north of Halifax. 
The valley is a very fine one. 

Wiconisco creek takes its rise in Schuyl- 
kill county, passing Williams, Washington 
and Wiconisco townships, discharging at 
Millersburg. The Lykens Valley railroad 
is along its southern bank. It is an Indian 
name, and is found spelled on earlier surveys 
as at present, except occasionally with the 
French Ouikonisko. 

Lykens is a beautiful and fertile valley, 
named for Andrew Lycans, who was the first 
to make a settlement in it. 

Mahantango creek is the north boundary 
of the county. It is also an Indian name. 
On the early maps it is called " Kind creek." 
There is a finely cultivated valley on either 
side of it. 

This account would be incomplete without 
mention of the mountainous region of the 
northern portion of the county. Below 
Harrisburg, depressed spurs of the South 
mountain cross from east to west, none of 
them of great elevation. Above that city 
the Kittatinny range, known as First, Second, 
Third and Peter's dividing ridges, covers a 
great portion of Middle Paxtang, Rush, Hal- 
ifax, Jefferson and Wayne townships ; then 
the Broad, Thick, Sharp, Big Lick ridges; 
then Berry's and Mahantango, occupying a 
large proportion of the area of that section 
of the county. Coal is found in the range 
along the Wiconisco creek, principally in 
the Thick or Big Lick mountain. The local 
nomenclature differs very much from the 
geographical. 

Peter's mountain has borne the same 
designation since 1729. Peter Allen came 
into the neighborhood from Conestoga, 
Chester, now Lancaster county. He was 
upon the first tax rate of that part of Chester 
county in 1717-18. His name is found after 
that in West Conestoga, then in Donegal, 
then in Paxtang, then in the present Middle 
Paxtang; his house is yet standing. That 
was the northeast boundary of Lancaster 
county as formed in 1729. He probably 



came up the river in 1724, and made prepa- 
ration for permanent location about the 
time Chambers made his choice in 1725. 



CHAPTER V. 

Early Settlers and Settlements In the "Upper 
End." 

Perchance no more interesting data can 
be furnished by the gleaner in historic fields 
than those of a reminiscential character ; and 
owing to this fact we have concluded to 
give within the limits of this brief chapter 
various facts relating to the settlement and 
the early settlers of the "Upper End" of 
Dauphin county. The information was 
gathered twenty years ago [1876], which 
may account for "references to individuals 
then living, but who have since passed off 
the stage of life. This should be borne in 
mind by the reader. 

Row the Early Settlers Lived. 

Little we know, in this day of comfort and 
luxury, how our ancestors fared. Although 
the elder settlers had some sheep, yet their 
increase was slow, owing to the depredations 
of wolves and other animals. It was, there- 
fore, a work of time to secure a crop of wool. 
Deerskin was a substitute for men and boys, 
and all generally wore leather breeches; and 
occasionally women and girls were compelled 
to resort to the use of the same materials. 
The women did the spinning and generally 
'wove all the cloth for the family, the men 
being engaged in clearing and cultivating 
the soil, or with their trusty rifle went in 
search of deer or other game for food. Our 
early settlers, Scotch-Irish as well as Ger- 
man, had large families, and it required 
the continued labor of the wife and mother 
to provide them with anything like com- 
fortable clothing. The men were not in- 
sensible to this devoted ness on the part of 
their wives, but assisted in whatever was 
necessary, even in the cookery and the cases 
were few where they could not do all the 
work of the house. The patient endurance, 
however, of the women we commend to the 
ladies of the present. That endurance did 
not arise from a slavish servility or insensi- 
bility to their rights and comforts, but justly 
appreciating their situation, they nobly en- 
countered the difficulties which could not be 
avoided. Possessing all the affections of the 



46 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



wife, the tenderness of the mother, and the 
sympathies of the women, their tears flowed 
freely for other's griefs, whilst they bore their 
own with a fortitude which none but a woman 
could exercise. The entire education of her 
children devolved on the mother, and not- 
withstanding the difficulties to be encoun- 
tered, she did not allow them to grow up with- 
out instruction, but amidst all her numerous 
cares taught them to read and instructed them 
in the principles of Christianity. Noble ma- 
trons! Your achievements have come down 
to us through a hundred years for our ad- 
miration and example. 

Settlement of Uniontown. 

David Snyder, Esq., of Lykens, gave us 
this statement of the early settlement of Sny- 
dertown, now known as Uniontown : 

The land upon which Uniontown is located 
was bought from the Hepner heirs by John 
Snyder, in 1818. The heirs were George, 
Christian, Peter and Henry. The land was 
sold by George Hepner and John Balthaser, 
executors, the whole tract being 360 acres. 
The principal street was laid out in 1818, 
simultaneous^' with the laying out of the 
town. The onW road prior was a wagon- 
road leading from the stone mill, now owned 
by Isaac Boyer, to the left, and continuing 
eastward, north of Main street, to the old 
mill now standing in the eastern part of the 
town. Philip Derger built the first house, 
which stands in a street leading from the old 
cemetery northward to Main street. This 
was in 1819. The first church was a Union 
Reformed and Lutheran, built about 1834, 
now used for a dwelling and stands on the 
hill back of Boyer's hotel. The first school 
house stood on the same street, built in the 
year 1828. One hundred lots were first laid 
out by John Snyder, and seven ty-five of these 
were sold by him for $30 each — the balance 
for one-half price. No elections were held in 
the town until it became a borough, the 
people being compelled to go to Berrysburg 
for the purpose of voting. The first physi- 
cian was Dr. Ensweiler,who came there about 
1838 and remained about four years. John 
Snyder, the founder of Uniontown, died 
about 1855, in Mercer county, at the age of 
72 years. Philip Derger came from Berks 
county and subsequently moved to the West. 
Mr. Snyder paid $8,000 for the whole tract. 
It was owned before Hepner by Peter Hain. 



Settlement of Wiconisco. 

The late Christian Seip, of Wiconisco, to 
whom we were indebted for much informa- 
tion relating to the history of Lykens Valley, 
furnished this data: 

The number of houses in and about Wico- 
nisco in 1846 was probably not twenty. A 
man by the name of Lance built the first 
house in Wiconisco, where the Methodist 
church now stands. He now lives in Potts- 
ville. Another house stood in the swamp, 
below the railroad, then occupied by a man 
named Wagner. Michael Shaeffer built the 
tavern now occupied by Neiffer. He never 
lived to take possession of it — died before it 
was completed and was buried in the old 
graveyard near the company's stables. He 
first kept tavern in an old frame house near 
the dirt bank. Many of the first miners 
boarded with him. Behind the old breaker 
there were two houses — one occupied by Mr. 
Couch, the company's superintendent. Mi- 
chael Shaeffer, with his brother Henrj', came 
from Germany with their father when mere 
boys. It is thought from Hesse Darmstadt. 
An old block house near the company's 
stables was the meeting house — Methodist. 
Mr. Shaeffer took the coal trucks down to 
Millersburg with horses. The track began 
behind the old breaker. At that time " shin- 
plasters" were in vogue. The miners re- 
ceived no more than four dollars a week. Six 
dollars was considered very high wages. A 
man by the name of Frederick Alvord then 
received the highest wages, eight dollars per 
week, for blacksmithing for the company. In 
the beginning the trucks were only driven 
once a week to Millersburg, in trains of eight 
or ten. Drove only gangways then — no 
breasts. Mr. Bordner drove the first gang- 
way of the Short Mountian mines. During 
the earlier mining period the men were paid 
only every three or four months. 

Old Settlers of Lykens. 

Joshua Bowman, Esq., of Lykens, whose 
memory of the early days of Lykens and 
vicinity were quite vivid, gave us the follow- 
ing : 

Passed through what is now Lykens in 
1810. Was then living with my parents on 
the property adjoining the Forge. The first 
house then in Lykens was Ferree's house, 
now occupied by the brick buildings of 
Charles Martz. The second, Zerbe's, oppo- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



47 



site 'Squire Ferree's. Next the Conner 
house, but lately demolished for the erection 
of the brick house of William A. Wallace. 
Stehley's stood in the woods near the creek. 
Next Kissley's, owned by Jacob Bordner. 
Next an old log house, built by the Fegley's, 
now occupied by Isaac Derger. Next Pat- 
rick Martin's, now Leah Martin's, bis wife. 
Next John Sheean's, now occupied by Gor- 
man & Hensel's foundry. There was a two- 
story and a-half frame house near the creek, 
back of the Valley House, on what is now 
Water street. This was built by Edward 
Myers for a man by name of Fisher. No 
store in Lykens at that time. Merchandise 
of every sort was chiefly brought from the 
store of Josiah Bowman, at the Forge. The 
other store in all this part of the country 
was that of Henry Shaeffer's, at the Lykens 
Valley colliery. Some few of the people 
worked in the mines, others employed them- 
selves in the manufacture of shingles, spokes, 
posts and stays, which they traded for the 
necessities of life. No church at that time ; 
but a place of worship in an old school 
house near the company's stable. The com- 
pany then mined coal without preparation. 
It was taken by horse railway to Millersburg, 
then flatted across the Susquehanna to Mt. 
Patrick, on the opposite side, and placed on 
the canal boats of the North Branch for ship- 
ment to Harrisburg. There was no public 
house at that time. The company would 
not tolerate any upon its own grounds, and 
would not sell ground for hotel purposes. 
Jacob Stehley, a gentleman at large, who 
died at Harrisburg a few years ago, rather 
eccentric, yet very entertaining and full of 
wit and humor — in his latter days fond of 
hunting and fishing — " botched " in the 
woods at that time, supported by his son 
John, at Harrisburg. Mr. Stehley was about 
sixty years of age, and quite intelligent, full 
of information and lively when in company, 
which he tried to avoid, preferring the life 
of a hermit. The mail was gotten at Thomas 
Harper's, at the Forge. Isaac Ferree was 
quite an old man then. Had sons running 
a saw mill in " Greenland " — the only saw 
mill then about. The mill in " Greenland " 
was erected in 1840, by the Ferree's — Joel, 
Jefferson, Washington, Uriah and Jacob. 
Shortly afterwards the mill at Round Top 
was erected by the same parties, and the one 
at Greenland abandoned. The elections 
were held at the tavern of Michael Shaeffer. 
Deer were plenty — bear also — fish in abund- 



ance — wild turkeys. The men employed in 
the mines about twenty. The old Lykens 
Valley breaker was erected in 1845-7. No 
breaker in 1840. The mines were then a 
mere drift. In 1853 there were about fifty 
houses in Lykens. About the same number 
in Wiconisco. The orders in 1853 were the 
American Mechanics and Sons of Temper- 
ance. No Odd Fellows at that time. They 
organized shortly after. The orders men- 
tioned met in John Hensel's building on 
Main street, second story, steps on the out- 
side leading up. No minister then resident 
in Lykens. Preaching in the stone church, 
Lykens, the only church then, by Watson, 
it is thought. The first railroad consisted 
of wrought-iron tacked on wooden rails — 
called by the natives the " Slabtrack " road. 

The Early History of Gratz. 

To George Hoffman, Esq., of Gratz, are the 
citizens of that locality indebted for the in- 
formation which follows: 

Ludwig Shoffstall, who came from Lancas- 
ter county, built the first house in Gratz — a 
two-story log, yet standing. Ed. Umholtz 
(tavern) lives in it. Frey kept his store in it 
for a long time — he then attached the tavern. 
Conrad Prey built the tavern about 1820. 
These buildings were followed in the succes- 
sion named by the log dwellings of Matthias 
Bellow, Faust, Rev. Handel, Daniel Fegley, 
Anthony Matthias, Squire Reedy and John 
Reichard. The first church was the brick, 
built in 1832 — German Reformed and Lu- 
theran. The first pastors, Revs. Isaac Ger- 
hardt and John Peter Shindel. Before the 
brick church was erected meetings were held 
by the said pastors in an old log structure, 
built for that purpose by Simon Gratz. The 
first school house was built in 1822 by Eli 
Buffington, the carpenter of the old Hoffman 
church, which he erected about 1771. The 
original Simon Gratz donated the ground. 
Rev. Anthony Hautz was the first pastor of 
the old Hoffman church. He came back 
when he was seventy-five years of age — a 
very small, gray-headed man, about five feet 
in height. A grist mill was built quite early, 
about a quarter of a mile from town, by one 
John Salladay, and ran by a stream of water 
from a spring — wheel over twenty feet high. 
Mr. Salladay was one of the first settlers. 
Jacob Loudenslager was also one of the old 
settlers — lived about the present town, and 
had patented 400 acres in one tract. Old 
John Hoffman lived about a quarter of a 



48 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



mile south of the Hoffman church. Andrew 
Hoffman lived east of Jacob Loudenslager a 
quarter of a mile and had patented about 
100 acres. Peter Stein, adjoining, had 300 
acres. Peter Hoffman lived down the Wico- 
nisco creek, a mile this side of the Forge, and 
had 400 acres. The Pottsville road was made 
about twenty years ago. The old Reading 
road about 1800. Peter Hain owned the 
Gap west of town. The Gap was named for 
him. He originally owned the lands upon 
which Uniontown is now situated, before 
Hepner. Adam Heller laid out Berrysburg. 
He lived where Daniel Romberger now lives, 
which was formerly called Hellerstown. He 
was a very lazy, indifferent man. The place 
where the brick church is now located, near 
Gratz, was formerly called Wild Cat Ridge, 
on account of the great number of wild cats 
congregating there. Conrad Frey came from 
Reading, Pa. The Methodist church was 
built in 1846. 

Early Families in the " Upper End." 

Benjamin Buffington, the first of the 
name who located in Lykens Valley, was an 
early settler there. He came from Berks 
county, died in 1814, and was buried in the 
graveyard at Short mountain by request. 
His sons were Eli, George, Levi, and John. 
Eli settled near Gratz, where his grandson 
Jeremiah now resides. He married Eliza- 
beth Kissinger and their sons were Abra- 
ham and John E. The latter, b. 1799 ; d. 
1867 ; m. Susanna Artz, and had sons Elias, 
Jeremiah, and Daniel. The other sons of 
the elder Benjamin Buffington intermarried 
into the Hoffman family, lived to be old 
men and had large families. Jacob Buffing- 
ton, Sr., b. 1800 ; d. 1878 ; was by occupa- 
tion a mechanic, and one of the most expert 
hunters in his day. He married Mary Gun- 
tryman ; and his sons were Isaac, Jonas, 
Jacob, Emanuel, and Levi. Solomon Buf- 
fington, b. L819; d. Jan. 1, 1878; was a 
mechanic and farmer.. He was a prominent 
member of the U. B. Church for many years 
and took an active part during the war of 
the Rebellion. Two of his sons were in the 
Union arm}'. His wife was Margaret Mat- 
ter, and their sons were Moses C, Edward, 
and Uriah. 



1770 Catharine Hoffman. Their oldest son, 
John Reigle, was a justice of the peace many 
years and followed farming. He married 
Susan Sheetz, and of their children Simon 
resided at Harrisburg, and Obed J. in Will- 
iamstown. Daniel, son of Andrew Reigle, 
married Catharine Harman. Their son 
Daniel was a county commissioner in 1852, 
serving three years. Jacob, son of Andrew, 
married Nancy Hartman. Andrew, Jr., was 
a farmer and served in the war of 1812-14. 
He married a Miss Stine. Elizabeth Reigle, 
a daughter of Andrew, Sr., married Daniel 
Sheesly, and they were the grandparents of 
Sheriff Sheesly, of Harrisburg. 



Mathias Freck was a native of Baden, 
Germany, from whence he emigrated in 
1815. In 1821 he married Eliza Penrose, 
daughter of Col. Joseph Penrose, of the Rev- 
olutionary army, and the year after settled 
in Lykens Valley, locating first at Gratz - 
town. Of their children Joseph M. Freck 
was a large coal operator, and resides at 
Pottsville, this State. Roland Freck was re- 
cently postmaster at Millersburg. John L. 
and Newton C. Freck are heavily engaged 
in the lumber business in Millersburg. 



John B. Hoffman, b. in 1792 ; d. 1875. 
He was a blacksmith by occupation ; had 
been a military captain and promoted to a 
lieutenant colonelcy, and served in the war 
of 1812-14. He was a prominent member 
of the German Reformed Church, holding 
the offices of deacon, elder and trustee. 
Political^ he was a staunch Democrat. Col- 
onel Hoffman married Margaret Bowman, 
and his sons were George, John, Christian, 
Josiah, James, and Peter A. 



Andrew Reigle resided on and owned the 
farm near the end of Short mountain, after- 
wards owned by his son Jacob. He was a 
soldier of the Revolution. He married in 



Benjamin Bretz was born in Lykens Val- 
ley in 1796 and died in 1878. He was 
a grandson of Ludwig Bretz, who was 
one of the first settlers in that region, a sol- 
dier of the Revolution, and wounded at the 
battle of Long Island in 1776. Benjamin 
carried on farming ; filled the office of super- 
visor several terms and was prominently 
identified with the military. He was a mem- 
ber of the German Reformed Church and 
much honored and respected. He ma.rried 
Margaret Paul, and they had sons, John and 
Anthony. 



Philip Runk was born in Lykens Val- 
ley, September 16, 1805, and died in Janu- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



49 



ary, 1873. His father came to the valley 
after the Revolution, and was one of the first 
settlers in Jefferson township. The son was 
a farmer, served in the military in early 
life, and a prominent member of the U. B. 
Church. He married Elizabeth Smith, and 
their sons were Jacob, Michael, and Adam. 
Jacob was at one time a presiding elder in 
the U. B. Church. 



Adam Cooper came to Lykens Valley 
during the Revolutionary war, and was a 
private in Capt. Martin Weaver's com- 
pany of Upper Paxtang, which marched to 
the relief of the settlers on the West Branch 
in the spring of 1781. He was a farmer and 
a great deer hunter. He married a daughter 
of Ludwig Shott, an early settler, and they 
had a large family. The late John Cooper, 
who represented Dauphin county in the 
Legislature in 1850, and who recently de- 
ceased, was a son. Connected by marriage 
to the Cooper family are the descendants of 
Jacob Schwab, or Swab, as now written. He 
was a native of Berks county, and died in 
1866, at the age of seventy-five years. He 
married Catharine Metz, and of their chil- 
dren, Eli Swab filled the office of county 
commissioner two terms. 



Daniel Etzweiler, Sr., was born April 12, 
1800, and died September 15, 1878. He was 
a farmer, filled the office of supervisor two 
terms, served five years in a volunteer mili- 
tia company, and was one of the founders of 
St. James' Lutheran and Reformed church 
near Carson ville. He was a great hunter, 
and excelled in deer shooting and the trap- 
ping of bear on the mountains. Mr. Etz- 
weiler married Christiana Smith, of North- 
umberland county, and their sons were Jona- 
than, Daniel, Michael, Elias, Peter, Adam, 
and Henry. 



Dr. Robert Auchmuty, the son of Samuel 
Auchmuty, was born near Sunbury, North- 
umberland county, Pa., in the year 1785. 
He was descended from an old Celtic family 
of Scotland. Robert Auchmuty, the first of 
the American family of that name, an emi- 
nent lawyer, was in practice at Boston, 
Mass., as early as 1719. He died in 1750, 
leaving several children. Among these, 
Robert, who in 1767 became judge of the 
Court of Admirality at Boston ; Samuel, who 
was rector of Trinity church, New York 
city, and Arthur Gates. The latter came to 



Pennsylvania as early as 1765, and located 
in then Lancaster county. In that year we 
find him commissioned as an Indian trader, 
with permission to trade with the natives at 
Penn's creek, Shamokin and such other forts 
as may by his majesty or the Provincial au- 
thorities be established. He first settled at 
the mouth of Penn's creek, on the Isle of 
Que, and from thence removed to the oppo- 
site side of the Susquehanna, a few miles 
below Fort Augusta, in what is now Lower 
Augusta township, Northumberland county. 
During the war of the Revolution Samuel 
Auchmuty, one of his sons, and father of the 
doctor, entered the patriot army, and was in 
service from the winter at Valley Forge 
until the close of the war. The veteran's re- 
mains rest in the old burial ground at Mil- 
lersburg, unmarked and the spot unknown. 
Dr. Robert Auchmuty received a good edu- 
cation, studied medicine and began the 
practice of his profession at Millersburg 
about 1830-31. Apart from the duties oi 
his profession he served many years as a jus 
tice of the peace, being first commissione - 
by Governor Ritner. fie was an enterprid 
ing, active citizen, and a warm advocate s- 
the common school system when that nobof 
measure was adopted, and was a gentlemale 
beloved and respected by his fellow citizenn 
He died at Millersburg in 1849, at the ags. 
of 64, and is buried in the new cemetery ae 
that place. He was the father of S. P. Aucht 
muty, Esq., of Millersburg. 



Hartman Rickert, an emigrant from Ger- 
man} 7 , settled near Short mountain at an 
early date; he died at the age of eighty-six 
years, leaving one son Hartman Rickert, Jr., 
who married Catharine Seebold. They were 
upwards of eighty at their death. They had 
children: Henry, in. Miss Romberger 
Martin, m. Elizabeth Yerges; Peter, m 
MissKlinger; Jacob, m. Elizabeth Hoover 
All left descendants. 



John F. Bowman was born in Lancaster 
county Pa., May 10, 1771. His father was a 
farmer, residing on Pequea creek, not far 
from Strasburg. John F. was brought up 
as a millwright, but subsequently entered 
mercantile pursuits. In 1809 he removed 
to Halifax, where he was a merchant from 
that period to 1830, when, believing a larger 
sphere of trade was opened for him, he went 
to Millersburg, where he successful^ con- 
tinued in business until his death, which oc- 



50 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



curred on the 6th of November, 1835. Mr. 
Bowman first married in 1794 a daughter of 
Isaac Ferree, whose farm adjoined that of 
his father. By this marriage they had the 
following children: Eliza, Maria, George, 
Josiah, m. Elizabeth Rutter. Mr. Bowman 
married, secondly, in, 1805, Frances Crossen, 
daughter of John Crossen. They had issue 
as follows: John J., m. Margaret Sallade; 
Levi, Louisa, Isaac, Mary E., m. Rev. C. W. 
Jackson ; Lucinda,m. Dr. Hiram Rutherford ; 
Jacob, Emeline, Benjamin. John F. Bow- 
man was one of the representative men of 
the " Upper End," enjoyed a reputation for 
uprightness and honesty, and highly es- 
teemed by those who knew him. Genial, 
yet quiet and unobtrusive, he never sought 
or would accept any local or public office. 
His second wife, Frances Crossen, b. August 
13, 1786 ; d. September 30, 1846, and lies in- 
terred beside her husband in the 'old Metho- 
dist graveyard at Millersburg. 



Jacob Hoover settled in the " Upper End" 
in 1800, and built the mill now owned by 
Daniel Buffington. Of his children : Jacob, 
d. young; m. Miss Bellas; Christian, m. 
Miss Feagley ; and their son Samuel was the 
first superintendent of the Short Mountain 
mines ; he removed to Minnesota many years 
ago; John, m. Margaret Lebo ; he owned 
the mill erected by his father ; Mary, m. John 
Shoffstall ; Katharine, m. George Kissinger ; 
Mary, m. Jacob Bordner; Susanna, m. Henry 
Umholtz. 



Abraham Jury. — Among the earliest settlers 
on the Wiconisco was Abraham Jury, or, as 
it is sometimes written, Shora. He was of 
French Huguenot descent, and emigrated 
from Switzerland about 1755. He located 
within the valley not far from the town of 
Millersburg. He was a farmer and took up 
a large tract of land. In the Revolution he 
served during the campaign in the Jerseys, 
and subsequently on the frontiers, as did also 
his eldest son, Samuel. He died in August, 
1785, leaving a wife Catharine, and the follow- 
ing children : Samuel, Abraham, Mary, Mag- 
dalena, Margaret, Catharine, Susanna, and 
Salome. Samuel, we presume, either removed 
from the valley or died early, for Abraham, Jr., 
seems to have come into possession of the old 
homestead. The latter died in November, 
1805, leaving John, who was of age, and 
Jacob, Hannah and Sallie, minors. 



Rev. Charles Edward Muench. — Any his- 
toric record of the Upper End would fail of 
completeness without some mention of the dis- 
tinguished "Dominie" of Hoffman church. 
We refer to the Rev. Charles Edward Muench, 
a native of Mettenheim, Wartenburg, in the 
Palatinate of Chur Pfaltz on the Rhine, Ger- 
many, born January 7, 1769. He was of 
Huguenot-French descent, his grandfather, 
Charles Frederick Beauvoir, fleeing France 
during the religious persecutions, and pur- 
chasing the " Muench Hoff," took his sur- 
name therefrom. Charles Frederick, the 
younger, was early sent to Heidelberg, where 
he completed his theological studies. It was 
just at the commencement of the general 
war in Europe, when on the occasion of his 
home being invaded by the French army he 
received and accepted a commission as cap- 
tain of a company of huzzars in the Allied 
armies, in which service he was severely 
wounded by a pistol ball in the leg, and a 
sabre cut on the left hand. He commanded 
the guard that conducted Lafayette to the 
prison at Olmutz. On the 8th of July, 1794, 
he was promoted quartermaster under Sir 
Francis of Wiedlungen. On the very day 
of his promotion he married Margaretha 
Bieser. In 1798 he came to America, where 
he taught a German school successively at 
Shaefferstown, Lebanon county, and Rehrers- 
burg, Berks county. In 1804 he removed to 
Lykens Valley, at the Hoffman church 
school property ; but discouraged somewhat 
at the wild appearance of the land, he went 
to Union county. Subsequently, in 1806, 
the congregation at Hoffman church re- 
quested his return, when yielding thereto, 
he once more entered upon the duties of his 
station. For a period of twent} r -eight years 
he was a faithful teacher, and although not 
the ordained minister, yet very frequently 
conducted the religious services in Hoffman 
church, and officiated on funeral occasions. 
He was greatly beloved by the people, and 
his death, which occurred on the 8th of Jan- 
uary, 1833, occasioned sorrow in many a 
household. His beloved wife, Margaretha, 
died in the following year, 1834, and their 
remains lie interred side by side in the 
graveyard of old Hoffman church. The Rev. 
Muench was exceedingly expert with the 
pen— had a refined artistic taste as to draw- 
ing and designing — and in the ornamenta- 
tion of books and inlaying of furniture. He 
was a musician of no ordinary ability, and 
was an adept in all those essentials charac- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



51 



teristic of the home culture of the Germans 
of the better class. Mr. Muench's children 
were: Juliana, m. Jacob Wolf; William 
Henry, m. Eliz. Reed, of Northumberland 
county; Susanna Louisa, m. Jacob Riegel; 
Charles Frederick, m. Grace Leyburn, of 
Carlisle; Daniel Augustus, of Halifax, m. 
Lydia Smith ; Jacob Dewalt, m. Salome 
Moyer ; Margaret, m. Peter Miller of Halifax. 

Simon Sallade. — There are few citizens of 
the county of Dauphin who are not familiar 
with the name and valuable services of 
Simon Sallade, one of the representative men 
of this district forty years ago, and concern- 
ing whom we have been able to glean the 
biographical data which herewith follows : 

Simon Sallade was born near Gratz, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., on the 7th of March, 1785. 
His father, John Sallade, of French Hugue- 
not descent, was a native of Bosel on the 
Rhine, born in March, 1739, emigrated, with 
other members of his family, to America at 
an early period, and was among the first 
settlers on the Wiconisco. He died at the age 
of 88 years, in November, 1827, being blind 
about ten years before his death. He mar- 
ried on the 8th of February, 1771, Margaret 
Everhart, daughter of George Everhart, born 
in Berks county in 1747, and concerning 
whom we have thefollowingincident. Upon 
the Indian incursions on the east side of the 
Susquehanna, subsequent to the defeat of 
Braddock, in the fall of 1755, she was taken 
captive by the savage marauders, near what 
is now Pine Grove, Schuylkill county. She 
was an unwilling witness to the scenes of 
murder and atrocity, when the merciless In- 
dians tomahawked and scalped her parents, 
brothers and sisters, and beheld the home of 
her birth illuminating by its red glare the mid- 
night sky, while only she of all her friends 
was left — and she a prisoner with the cruel 
and blood-thirsty savage. Doubtless there 
was some attractiveness of person or piteous- 
ness of appeal which saved her life. Of the 
wearisome years of her captivity among the 
Indians, west of the Ohio, we have little 
knowledge. It is not, however, until the 
power of the French on the beautiful river 
was broken by the courage and skill of Gen- 
eral Forbes, that the little prisoner was rescued 
and returned to her friends in Berks county. 
She lived to a ripe old age. John Sallade 
had five sons and two daughters, Simon be- 
ing next to the youngest. Simon Sallade, 
owing to the want of schools in those early 



days in the valley, was obliged to depend 
upon the educational instruction given by 
his parents, but being an apt scholar, it 
was not long before he mastered the main 
branches in a good education. He was a 
great reader, and, although books were few 
in those days, he read and re-read those fall- 
ing into his hands. Later in life, toward 
manhood's years, he acquired considerable 
knowledge by the aid of a teacher, whom he 
and some of the young men of his neighbor- 
hood employed for that purpose. He was 
quite a performer on the violin and being of 
a social nature, he was often the center and 
life of many winter evening gatherings of 
that time. 

Mr. Sallade was a mill-wright by trade, 
acquiring much of his proficiency in that 
vocation from an apprenticeship to Jacob 
Berkstresser, of Bellefonte. Many of the old 
mills within 30 or 40 miles of his home, were 
of his designing, and in fact the workman- 
ship of his hand. A self-made man, ener- 
getic, social and industrious, he became in 
time one of the most popular men of the 
Upper End. 

His constant contact with the people of all 
classes in social life or business relations re- 
sulted in his taking warm interest in politi- 
cal affairs. Although a politician, he was 
such for the advancement of the public good. 
He was a Democrat of the old school, and 
when named for office, he appealed to the 
people instead of the part} 7 for support. He 
was four times elected to the Pennsylvania 
House of Representatives. First, in the 
years 1819 and 1820, at the age of 34; next 
in 1836-7, at the age of 51 years; and again 
in 1853, when he was in his 69th year. 
Each time the Whigs were largely in the 
majority in Dauphin county, yet alwaj'S 
when put in nomination by the Democratic 
party, Mr. Sallade, save in one instance, was 
elected. This defeat was due in part to a 
letter written at the time to Charles C. Rawn, 
Esq., chairman of the temperance committee, 
in which he announced his opposition to the 
passage of the Maine liquor law. His letter 
was bold and outspoken. He did not con- 
ceal his opinions for the purpose of sailing 
into office under false colors. He might 
have done as latter-da}' politicians do, as did 
his opponents at that time — evaded the 
question and deceived the voter. Simon 
Sallade preferred defeat to deception — that 
the honorable career that he had made and 
sustained for political integrity and honesty 



52 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



should lose nothing of its lustre in his de- 
clining years. 

During his term in the Legislature he was 
the author of what was generally known as the 
" Wiconisco Feeder Bill." To his zeal and 
tact, that important legislation for the Upper 
End of Dauphin county, owes its passage. 
Through this outlet the Lykens Valley coal 
fields were first developed. He was the 
superintendent for the construction of the 
Wiconisco canal, and held the appointment 
through the canal commissioners. 

Simon Sallade died at the old homestead, 
near Elizabethville, on the 8th of November, 
1854, and is interred in the village grave- 
yard at that place. His wife was Jane Wood- 
side, daughter of John Woodside, of Lykens 
Valley. She died September 3, 1854, and 
is buried in the same graveyard. They had 
issue as follows: Margaret, m. John J. Bow- 
man, of Millersburg; Ann, m. Edward 
Bickel; Jane, m. Daniel K. Smith; Simon, 
Jacob, John, George, and Joseph. 

There are many hearthstones, writes one 
who knew Simon Sallade well, and to whom 
we are greatly indebted for much of the in- 
formation herewith given, in Lykens Valley, 
where the story of his sociability, hospitality, 
humor, honesty, and his many deeds of 
charity, are rehearsed by those of the fathers 
of the present generation who never saw or 
knew him, except from the traditionary his- 
tory which is part and parcel of every family 
and community. 



John Peter Willard, of Huguenot descent, 
was a native of Switzerland, born in 1745. 
He came to America as a soldier in the Brit- 
ish service, but shortly after landing effected 
his escape. He then volunteered in the 
cause of the Colonies, and was with other de- 
serters stationed on the Indian frontier or as 
guard of prisoners of war. At the close of 
the Revolution he took up a tract of land in 
Lykens township.called "Amsterdam," where 
he settled, began farming and subsequently 
married. He died in 1821, at the age of sev- 
enty-six. His wife died the following year 
(1822) aged seventy-seven. They left the 
following family : Adam, who came into pos- 
session of the homestead ; his children, Jo- 
seph, John A., Henry B. and Adam, Jr., then 
divided the farm ; part of it yet remains in 
possession of the descendants; Samuel re- 
mained in the valley, a farmer, and had a 
large family ; Anna Maria married John 
Philip Umholtz. 



The Lykens Valley Coal Development. 

The Wiconisco Coal Company, named for 
Wiconisco creek in the northeastern portion 
of the county, was organized in 1831, com- 
posed of six members — Simon Gratz, Samuel 
Richards, George H. Thompson, Charles 
Rockland Thompson, all of Philadelphia, 
and Henry Schriner and Henry Sheafer, 
both of Dauphin county. They began work 
at opening their mines by drifts in the gap 
at Bear Creek, and sold coal in the vicinity 
in 1832. The first miners were three Eng- 
lishmen — James Todoff, John Brown and 
William Hall, who came from Schuylkill 
count}'. 

The Lykens Valley railroad was located 
by Mr. Ashwin, an English civil engineer, 
and extended from the mines in Bear Gap, 
sixteen miles, to the Susquehanna river, 
along the north foot of Berry's mountain. 
This road was constructed under the direc- 
tion of John Paul, civil engineer, Henry 
Sheafer, superintendent, and Simon Sallade, 
director. The road was completed and began 
transporting coal in 1834 by horse power, on 
a flat strip rail. A number of ark loads of 
coal were shipped from Millersburg in March 
and April, 1834. Then the coal cars were 
boated across the Susquehanna, from the 
terminus of the railroad at Millersburg to 
Mt. Patrick, on the opposite side of the 
canal, in Perry county. This site was for- 
merly owned by Peter Ritner, brother of 
Governor Ritner. Here the Lykens Valley 
company had a set of schutes on the Penn- 
sylvania canal, where they shipped their 
coal to market. The first boat load of Lykens 
\f alley coal was sent on Saturday, April 19, 
1834, 'by boat " 76," forty-three tons, Capt. C. 
France, consigned to Thomas Baldridge, 
Columbia, Pa. 

Shipments continued in this manner until 
1845, when the railroad was worn out, and 
abandoned until 1848. Then a portion of the 
railroad was regraded, and all laid with new 
" T " rail. The Wiconisco canal was built 
and shipments resumed in 1848, and have 
continued ever since. Up to and including 
1858, the total shipment of coal from the 
Lykens Valley mines, from the beginning, 
amounted to eight hundred and forty-eight 
thousand, seven hundred and eighty-one 
tons, and the grand total shipments on the 
Susquehanna were three millions, two hun- 
dred and thirty-four thousand, seven hun- 
dred and eighty-one tons, which included 





Governor Geary. 



Governor Wolfe. 




Governor Shunk. 





Governor Porter. 



Governor Findlay. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



55 



shipments of coal by the Union canal and 
other avenues as follows: 

The Shauiokin railroad was opened in 
1839. 

The Dauphin and Susquehanna in 1854. 

The Treverton railroad in 1855. 

At this early day of the coal trade, this 
portion of the country was wild and seemed 
far removed in the woods. Lykens Valley is 
the broad expanse, three to five miles in 
width, of fertile red shale soil between the 
Mahantango mountain on the north and 
Berry's mountain on the south, with the Sus- 
quehanna river as its boundary line on the 
west. Its eastern portion is a distance of 
twelve miles from the river, and is sub-di- 
vided into two smaller vallej'S, the main or 
northern one extending some ten miles east 
to the valley of the Mahanoy creek. The 
south portion is named after its early settler, 
Williams, who built a grist mill near Will- 
iamstown, also named after him. 

Andrew Lycans, the Pioneer of the Wiconisco 
Valley. 

In 1723 Andrew Lycans (not Lycan) 
settled on the Swatara creek, where he took 
up two hundred and fifty acres of land ad- 
joining lands of Robert Young and Lazarus 
Stewart, and which was surveyed to him on 
the 4th of April, 1737. About 1740 he seems 
to have sold out, and removed with a num- 
ber of others to the west side of the Susque- 
hanna, where he settled and made some im- 
provements on a tract of land between Shear- 
man's creek and the Juniata, in then 
Cumberland county. This not being in- 
cluded in the then last Indian purchase, the 
Shawanese, who had a few scattered villages 
on the Juniata, complained of the encroach- 
ments of these settlers and demanded their 
removal. To pacify the Indians, the Pro- 
vincial authorities sent, in 1748, the sheriff 
of Lancaster county, with three magistrates, 
accompanied by Conrad Weiser, to warn the 
peojule to leave at once. But, notwithstand- 
ing all this, the settlers remained, determined 
not to be driven away at least by threats. 

On the 22d of May, 1740," after more 
decisive measures had been decided' upon by 
the Provincial government, a number of 
high dignitaries who had been appointed 
by the lieutenant governor, held a conference 
at the house of George Croghan in Penns- 
boro' township, Cumberland county. Sub- 
sequently, accompanied by the under-sheriff 
of that county, they went to the place where 



Lycans and others lived, and after taking 
the settlers into custody burned their cabins 
to the number of five or six.* 

They were subsequently released by order 
of the governor of the Province, when An- 
drew Lycans removed with his family to the 
east side of the Susquehanna beyond the 
Kittatinny mountains, and by permission 
of the authorities, settled on a tract of about 
two hundred acres, situated on the northerly 
side of Whiconescong creek." Hefe he 
made " considerable improvements," which 
we learn from a document in our possession. 

Until the spring of 1756 these pioneers on 
the Wiconisco were not disturbed in their 
homes, but following the defeat of Braddock, 
everywhere along the frontier the savages 
began their work of devastation and death. 
Their implacable cruelt}' was stimulated by 
the promise of reward for scalps on the part 
of the French, beside the further one of be- 
ing put into possession of their lands. On 
the morning of the 7th of March, 1756, An- 
drew Lycans and John Rewalt went out 
earlj' to fodder their cattle, when two guns 
were fired at them. Neither being harmed, 
they ran into the house, and prepared them- 
selves for defense in case of an attack. The 
Indians then got under cover of a hog house 
near the dwelling house, when John Lycans, 
a son of Andrew, John Rewalt and Ludwig 
Shott, a neighbor, crept out of the house in 
order to get a shot at them, but were fired 
upon by the savages, and all wounded, the 
latter (Shott) in the abdomen. At this 
moment Andrew Lycans saw one of the In- 
dians over the hog house, and also two 
white men running out of the same, and get 
a little distance therefrom. Upon this, Ly- 
cans and his part)' attempted to escape, but 
were pursued by the Indians to the number 
of sixteen or upwards. John Lycans and 
Rewalt, being badly wounded and not able 

*Note.— We have before us the account of An- 
drew Work, sheriff of Lancaster, for removal of 
trespassers at Juniata." which is as follows : 

" Dr. Province of Pennsylvania to Andrew Work, 
Sheriff of the County of Lancaster and Cumberland. 
" To ten days attendance on the Secretary Mag- 
istrates of Cumberland, by his Hon'r, the Gover- 
nor's command to remove sundry persons settled to 
the northward of the Kichitania mountains : 
" To paid the Messenger sent from Lancaster 

at my own expenses 3:7:0 

"To the Under-Sheriff's Attendance on the 

like service, eight days, 

" To his Expenses in taking down Andrew 
Lycans to Prison to Lancaster other Ex- 
penses on the Journey, ... ... 2:10:0 

"Augt., 1750. And Work, Sher. 



56 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



to do anything, with a negro, who was with 
them, made off, leaving Andrew Lycans, 
Shott and a boy engaged with the Indians. 
The savages pursued them so closely that 
one of them coming up to the boy was going 
to strike his tomahawk into him, when Lud- 
wig Shott turned and shot him dead, while 
Lycans killed two more and wounded sev- 
eral in addition. At last, being exhausted 
and pounded, they sat down on a log to 
rest themselves ; but the Indians were some- 
what cautious and stood some distance from 
them, and subsequently returned to look 
after their own wounded. Lycans and all 
his party managed to get over the moun- 
tain into Hanover township, where they 
were properly cared for. Here Andrew Ly- 
cans died, leaving a wife, Jane Lycans, 
and children, John, Susanna, Rebecca, 
Elizabeth, Mary, and Margaret. It is 
not known when Lycans' family, with 
the other settlers, returned to their homes 
in the Wiconisco Valley — but not until 
all danger was over ; and although on 
a subsequent occasion they were obliged to 
leave all and flee before the marauding sav- 
ages, yet the one alluded to was the only in- 
stance where they so narrowly escaped with 
their lives. Besides, the erection of the forts 
at Shamokin (Sunbury) and at Armstrong's 
(Halifax) and at McKee's, at the foot of 
Berry's mountain, was perchance ample pro- 
tection from the annual marauds of the In- 
dians, which up to the year 1764 kept the 
frontier inhabitants in a terrible state of ap- 
prehension and fear. 

John Lycans, son of Andrew, became an 
officer of the Provincial service, commis- 
sioned July 12, 1762. In June, 1764, he 
was stationed at Manada Gap. It is prob- 
able he removed from the valley prior to 
the Revolution. His mother, Jane Lycans, 
in February, 1765, had a patent issued to 
her for the land on which her husband had 
located. The Lycans cabin stood until 
about twenty years ago on McClure's farm, 
owned at present by H. L. Lark. Luclwig 
Shott died about 1790, and left a large family; 
some of his descendants remain in the val- 
ley. Rewalt subsequently removed to the 
now thickty settled portion of the Province. 

Andrew Lycans has given his name to 
this beautiful valley of the Wiconisco, owing 
perchance to the terrible encounter with the 
Indians as narrated. The orthography has 
been changed within the last fifty years, but 
we have not learned the reason therefore. 



Whether Lykens, or Lycans, we trust that 
no attempt may ever be made to deprive the 
first pioneer of the name which has been 
appropriately given to it. 



CHAPTER VI. 

Genealogical Notes. 

In the absence of town records, much diffi- 
culty is daily experienced by those in search 
of the records of their ancestry. In Penn- 
sylvania, save among the early Quakers, the 
abstracts of wills, the assessment lists, the ad- 
ministration accounts, with an occasional 
deed, are the only fields for genealogical re- 
search prior to the war of the Revolution. 
Owing to this fact, and to preserve to the 
people of Dauphin county, and to the de- 
scendants of those who have gone out from 
it and are scattered over many States of the 
Federal Union, we have compiled the follow- 
ing abstracts of wills pertaining to that sec- 
tion of Lancaster county which, after 1785, 
became the county of Dauphin. The history 
of the family is becoming of far greater" im- 
portance than the general history of public 
affairs or that of the individual. We feel 
confident, that in the preservation in this 
volume of these beginnings of the early 
family history of the pioneers and other set- 
tlers, we do excellent service ; and, therefore, 
tender them to those into whose hands this 
Encyclopedia of Biography may fall, believ- 
ing that no other chapter contained within 
the covers of the volume will be more highly 
appreciated. At the present time, when on 
all sides efforts are being made to preserve 
the history of the family, no better lexicon 
of genealogy can be found in any local his- 
torical volume. 

Ash ton, Alexander, of Hanover, d. De- 
cember, 1743, leaving a wife Isabella, and 
children- James, John, and Henry. The ex- 
ecutors were Walter Carruth and John Mc- 
Queen. 

Allison, William, of Derry, d. in August, 
1739, leaving a wife, and several children. 

Allison, James, Sr., of Cormack Plains, d. 
in September, 1739, leaving a wife Jean, and 
children : Isabella, James, and John. 

Allison, John, of Derry, d. in May, 1747, 
leaving a wifeJeanet, and children : Robert, 
Jean, Isabel, Margaret, Jeanet, and James. 

Allison, James, d. in September, 1762, 
leaving a wife Rebecca, and children : James, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



57 



Anna m. Defrance, Janet m. William 

Watt, Margaret m. Bowman, Sarah, 

and Rebecca. Mrs. Rebecca Allison d. Sep- 
tember, 1764. 

Allison, Robert, of Derry, d. in February, 
1765, leaving brothers William and John, 
who were his executors. The legatees of his 
estate were the trustees of the Philadelphia 
Hospital, the Grammar School of Newark, 
Del., Anabella McDowell and Mary Clark. 

Allison, John, d. May, 1767, leaving a wife 

Ann, and children : Patrick, Jane, m. 

Clark, Margaret, John, James, Ann, William, 
Robert, arid Rose. 

Allison, James, d. April, 1776, leaving his 
estate to his sisters Sarah Allison, Rebecca, 

m. Killwell, and Janet, m. William 

Watt ; also to his nephews, James and John 
Defrance. 

Allen, William, of Hanover, d. in Feb- 
ruary, 1744, leaving a wife Sarah, and chil- 
dren : William, John, Benjamin, and James. 

Allen, William, of Hanover, d. in March, 

1782, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and children : 
John, Sarah, m. James Dixon, Jean, m. John 
Sawyer, Elizabeth, m. Samuel Mann, Mary, 
m. John Snodgrass, Samuel, and William. 
He mentions grandchildren Sarah and Allen 
Dixon, Mary and William Allen. 

Armstrong, James, of Paxtang, d. Decem- 
ber, 1758, leaving a wife Jean, brothers Will- 
iam and John, sisters Margaret, Mary, Eliza- 
beth, m. Thompson, and Frances. 

Andrews, John, of Hanover, d. March, 

1783, leaving a wife Rachel, and among 
others, daughter Elizabeth. 

Barnett, John, d. September, 1734, leaving 
a wife Jennet,and children : Thomas, Joseph, 
Robert, James, John, Rebecca, Mary, and 
Jean. 

Barnett, Samuel, of Hanover, d. July, 
1758, leaving a wife Martha, and children : 
Samuel, John, Elizabeth, Sarah, and Rebecca. 

Barnett, William, of Hanover, d. Febru- 
ary, 1762, leaving a wife Margaret, and chil- 
dren: Joseph and Sarah. John and Will- 
iam Barnett were the executors. 

Barnett, William, of Paxtang, d. Septem- 
ber, 1764, leaving a wife Rebecca, and chil- 
dren : John, William, Mary, Rebecca, Isabel, 
and Jean. 

Barnett, John E., of Paxtang, d. January, 
1785, leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
Andrew, John, and Janet. 

Bartlett, John, d. prior to August, 1761, 
leaving sisters as follows: Rachel, m. Will- 
iam Mills, Mary, m. Matthew Chambers, 



Bathsheba, m. John Bailey, Rebecca, Martha. 

Barclay, William, d. prior to 1761, at that 
time his widow Esther being the wife of 
Mclntire. William Barclay's chil- 
dren were: John, Hugh, Stephen, Joseph, 
Mary, Margaret, Martha, Esther. 

Brandon, William, of Hanover, d. April, 
1753, leaving a wife Isabella, and children : 
James, Catharine, Ann, and William. 

Black, David, of JJerry, d. November, 1753, 
leaving a wife Jane, and his estate to his 
nephews, William and Thomas Spencer, and 
William Laird, and nieces, Eliza Laird and 
Mary Maxwell. 

Black, Hugh, of Derry, d. September, 1759, 
leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 
Thomas, David, deceased, Jean, Agnes, m. 
John Laird, and Mary, m. Maxwell. 

Bowman, Thomas, of Derry, d. in 1763, 
leaving a wife Mary, and children : Hugh, 
Jean, Elizabeth, John, and Thomas. 

Bowman, Stephen, of Paxtang, d. May, 
1782, leaving a wife Anna, and children : 
Chrisly, John, Stephen, Barbara, in. Elias 
Neglee, Mary, m. John Roop, Addy, m. Jacob 
Roop, Freney, m. Chrisly Stopher, Ann, m. 
Henry Landis, and Elizabeth, m. Melchoir 
Poor man. 

Brown, William, of Hanover, d. January, 
1771, leaving children: Mary, Ann, Molly, 
William, John, and James. John and An- 
drew Brown, presumably brothers, were the 
executors. 

Brown, Daniel, d. April, 1782, leaving a 
wife Agnes, and children : Philip, Margaret, 
Elizabeth, Agnes, and John. 

Boyd, Jane, of Paxtang, d. in December, 
1772 ; she left children : Mary, Jane, and 
Martha ; sons-in-law James Miller. James 
Means, James Anderson, William McWhor- 
ter, and Robert McWhorter ; also a grand- 
child, Jane Means. 

Boyd, Robert, of Paxtang, d. September, 
1785, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and children : 
Sarah, Elizabeth, Margaret, and Catharine 
— the first three then residing in Ireland. 

Boyd, William, of Derry, d. May, 1800, 
leaving a wife Jennett, and children : James, 
John, who had a son William, Jennett, m. 
— Moore, Mary, ra.— — Strawbridge, 



Margaret, m. 



Williams, and William, 



who had a son William. 

Brightbill, J. Dorst, of Hanover, d. in 
December, 1773, leaving a wife Mary, and 
children ; Elizabeth, Mary, John, and Peter. 

Balsboch, George, of Hanover, d. in Sep- 
tember, 1773, leaving a wife Maria Eva, and 



58 



HISTORIC \l L RE VIE W 



children : Peter, Valentine, Margaret, Cath- 
arine, Eva, and George; son-in-law George 
Henry. 

Boeshore, Jacob, of Hanover, d. December, 
1778, leaving children : Henry, Catharine, 
John, Jacob, Ann, Christina, and Margaret; 
son-in-law Adam Baumgardner. 

Boggs, William, of Paxtang, d. March, 

1782, leaving a wife Lydia, and children : 
James, Catharine, Ann, Margaret, Elizabeth, 
William, Lydia, and John. 

_^ Bishop, William, d. March, 1783, leaving 
a wife Anna, and children : Christopher, 
Peter, John, Philip, Godleib, and Susanna, 

m. Bretz. 

Bell, William, of Paxtang, d. in October, 

1783, leaving children : John, George, Will- 
iam, Thomas, Arthur, Andrew, Jean, Sarah, 
Mary, Dorcas, and Margaret. 

Bell. Thomas, b. 1737 ; d. June 23, 1815. 
His wife Ann, b. September 18, 1740. They 
had among other children : Rev. Samuel, 
m. Mary Snodgrass; James, b. 1772, d. 

March 6, 1841, m. Catharine , b. 1782, 

d. October 4, 1826 ; Eliza, m. James Dale, of 
Union county, Pa. 

Brand, John, of Paxtang, d. in November, 
1783, leaving his estate to brothers Chris- 
topher, Jacob, and Peter; to sisters Eliza- 
beth, m. Alliuan, Nancy, and Mary, 

m. Hemperly. 

Bradley, Samuel, of Hanover, d. April, 
1785, leaving a wife Agnes, and brother John, 
whose children were Samuel, William, Mary, 
and John, brother James and son Samuel, 
brother Matthew ; besides Mary and AVill- 
iani Shay, children of William Shay. 

Boal, Peter, of Paxtang, d. April, 1791, 
leaving his estate to his brothers John, 
Michael, Henry, and sisters not named. 

Bordner, John, of Lykens, d. June, 1812, 
leaving a wife Susanna, and children as fol- 
lows: Peter, Anna, m. Adam Heller, Susanna, 
Elizabeth. 

Bucher, Casper, of Paxtang, d. September, 
1800, leaving a wife Catharine, and children : 
George, John, Casper, Catharine, m. Henry 
Goetz, Elizabeth, m. Jacob Engel, Anna 
Maria, m. Samuel Wiestling, Dorothea, m. 
Godfrey Fritchey, Magdalena, m. Henry 
Shiley, and Jacob. 

Clark, William, d. in September, 1732, 
leaving wife Esther, and children : William, 
Sarah, Esther, and Priscilla. The executors 
were Thomas Clark and Rev. Adam Boyd. 

Clark, Sarah, d. October, 1752, leaving sis- 
ters: Esther, m. Jonathan Jones, and Pris- 



cilla, m. Joseph Cookson, and a brother Will- 
iam Clark. 

Clark, John, d. in January, 1753, leaving 
a wife Elizabeth, and children: Thomas, 
Robert, and James. 

Clark, Thomas, d. in 1759, leaving a wife 
and children named: James, John, Abraham, 
William, Thomas, Eleanor, Mary, and Mar- 
garet. 

Clark, William, d. in May, 1763, leaving 
wife Margaret, and children : Peter, John, 
Thomas, Joseph, and Ann. He mentions 
his son-in-law John Baldridge. 

Clark, Robert, of Upper Paxtang, d. in 
March, 1771, leaving a wife Jean, and chil- 
dren: William, Jean, m. Thomas Renick, 
Elizabeth, m. John Means, and Mary, m. 
William Wallis. 

Clark, Robert, of Paxtang, d. March, 1788, 
leaving his estate to his nephew William 
Duncan. 

Clark, Benj., of Hanover, d. March, 1801, 
leaving children: Thomas, Margaret, de- 
ceased, m. John Gilichen, Mary, m. Richard 
McClay, grandson Benjamin Clark, and 
granddaughter Elizabeth Clark, m. Balzer 
Stein, children of his daughter Jane. 

Cathey, John, of Paxtang, d. in February, 
1742, leaving a wife Ann, and children: 
Alexander and Eleanor. 

Campbell, Samuel, of Derry, d. October, 
1747, leaving a wife and children: William, 
James, John, Hugh, and Thomas ; also grand- 
children Elizabeth and Samuel, children 
of Hugh Campbell. 

Campbell, William, d. in April, 1748, 
leaving a wife Mary, and children : John, 
William, Mary, Jane, Margaret, and Ann. 
The executors were Samuel Reed and Samuel 
Graham. 

Campbell, Andrew, d. in June, 1752, 
leaving children : John, Archibald, Andrew, 
Sarah, and Margaret; besides grandchild 
Jane, m. Robert McNeal. 

Campbell, James, of Londonderry, d. in 
May, 1771, leaving a wife Rosanna, and 
children: John and Patrick; grandchild 
James, son of John ; sister Martha Gary. 

Campbell, Patrick, d. July, 1772, leaving 
a wife Mary, son-in-law William Smith, and 
grandchild Campbell Smith. 

Campbell, Andrew, d. in July, 1797, leav- 
ing his estate to his nephews Daniel, Archi- 
bald, and John McNeal. 

Campbell, John, of East Hanover, died in 
1787, leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



59 



William, James, John, Mary, Jane, Isaac, 
and Margery. 

Craig, John, d. prior to September, 1760, 
and left issue : Sarah, m. David Allen, Mary, 
Isabel, and John. 

Caldwell, Andrew, d. in December, 1752, 
leaving a wife Ann, and children : Andrew, 
Rachael, m. James Croswell, and Robert; 
granddaughter Hannah, child of Rachael. 

Caldwell, Robert, d. March, 1755, leaving 
his estate to his mother Ann Caldwell, and 
brother Andrew Caldwell, and sister Rachael, 
m. James Croswell. 

Caldwell, Andrew, d. in January, 1759, 
leaving a wife Martha, and children : Alex- 
ander, Andrew, John, and David. 

Caldwell, Andrew, of Paxtang, d. in April, 
1771, leaving children : Sarah, m. James 
Carson, Rebecca, David, Ann, Andrew, and 
James. The executors were James Carson, 
Matthew Smith, and Andrew Caldwell. 

Caldwell, John, of Paxtang, d. in March, 

1782, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
David, James, John, Sarah, and Ann. 

Caldwell, David, of Paxtang, d. in May, 

1783, leaving mother, Mary Caldwell, 
brothers James and John, and sisters 
Sarah and Ann. 

Caldwell, James, d. in March, 1785, leaving 
a wife Mary, and children : John, William, 
Andrew, Oliver, James, Mary, m. William 
Mooney, and Agnes, in. John Atchinson. 

Caldwell, John, of Paxtang, d. April, 1786, 
leaving a father John ; brothers James and 
David, and sister Ann. 

Crawford, John, or Christopher, a native 
of Londonderr}', Ireland, came to America 
about 1803. He married, about 1805, Bar- 
bara Radebaugh Berryhill, daughter of Peter 
Radebaugh, of Hummelstown, and widow of 

-Berryhill. B}' her first marriage Mrs. 

Crawford had : Mary, b. February 9, 1794, 

m. Wise; Justina, b. March 21, 

1796, m. Deary; William, b. 1798^ 

d. December 11, 1867, m. Catharine Bran- 
don, d. August 28, 1863, at Harrisburg. The 
children of Christopher or John Crawford 
and Barbara Radebaugh Berryhill were : 
John, b. November 6, 1808 ; Eliza, b. 1808 ; 
m. Robert Wright, and removed to Miami 
county, Ohio; Mrs. Wright resided near 
Potsdam, that county ; Jane, b. June 9, 
1810, m. John Daly, of Lewistown, Pa.; then 
removed to Piedmont, W. Va., where their 
descendants now reside ; Mrs. Daly died in 
1S80; Susan, b. 1812, m. Andrew Murray, 
of Hanover ; removed to Harrisburg, Mont- 



gomery county, Ohio, and subsequently to 
Blue Ball, Butler county, that State ; Bar- 
bara, b. January 18, 1814, m. John Delaney, 
of Derry, Dauphin count}', removed to Red 
Lion, Lycoming county, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. 
Crawford diedinSpringdale, and were buried 
in the old church graveyard at Hummelstown. 
Cochran, William, of Paxtang, d. in July, 

1749, leaving a large famity of children, only 
two of whom are named in the will, Janet 
and Martha. 

Cochran, John, of Hanover, d. in July, 

1750, leaving a wife Jean and son William. 
Cochran, Andrew, of Paxtang, d. in No- 
vember, 1 775, leaving children : James, Jean, 
Mary, Martha, Sarah, John, Andrew, and 
William. The executors were Andrew and 
William Cochran. 

Calhoun, John, of Paxtang, d. in October, 
1754, leaving a wife Janet and son George. 

Calhoun, James, d. November, 1772, leav- 
ing a wife Elizabeth, and children : William, 
James, Mary, Elizabeth, Sarah, and Jane. 

Calhoun, William, of Paxtang, d. Septem- 
ber, 1786, leaving a wife Agnes and daugh- 
ter Elizabeth, m. Henry McCormick, and 
other children : Isabel and William, and 
also a grandson William. 

Cunningham, William, d. in December, 

1751, leaving a wife Isabella, and children : 
John, Thomas, James, Margaret, and Mary. 
The executors were Anna Kyle and Samuel 
Ramsey. 

Cunningham, Samuel, d. in July, 1777, 
leaving a wife Janet, and childreu : Robert, 
Samuel, Sarah, Martha, and James, and 
grandchild Hannah Campbell. 

Chambers, James, of Derry, d. in Febru- 
ary, 1758, leaviug a wife Sarah, and chil- 
dren : Ann, Sarah, James. Elizabeth, Benja- 
min, and Joseph. The executors were Rob- 
ert Boyd and Arthur Chambers. 

Chambers, Arthur, of Deny, d. in 1761, 
leaving a wife Jean, and children : Max- 
well, Robert, Rowland, Arthur, and John. 
Jean Chambers and James Shaw were the 
executors. 

Chambers, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. in Feb- 
ruary, 1768, leaving a wife Mary, and 
daughter Catharine. James Patterson and 
Samuel Hunter and Thomas Forster were 
the executors. 

Chambers, William, of Paxtang, d. in Oc- 
tober, 1765, leaving a wife Mary, and chil- 
dren : Margaret, Elizabeth, Sarah, James, and 
Samuel. The executors were Mary and Sam- 
uel Chambers. 



60 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Chambers, Samuel, of Paxtang, died in 
July, 1766, leaving a wife Jean, and mother 
Mary, brothers William, John, and James, 
and sister Sarah. James Chambers and 
Joshua White were the executors. 

Chambers, John, of Paxtang, d. in March, 
1770, leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 
Samuel, Robert, Elizabeth, Isabel, Esther, 
and Mary. 

Chambers, Maxwell, of Paxtang, d. in 
June, 1785, leaving children : Elizabeth, b. 
April 14, 1792 ; Arthur, b. December 5, 1793 ; 
Jeremiah, b. November 16, 1794; and Max- 
well, b. September 7, 1799. 

Crawford, William, d. in April, 1761, 
leaving a wife Violet, and children : Isabella, 
m. William Moore, Elizabeth, m. John 
Crawford, Robert, and William. 

Crawford, David, d. in April, 1779, leav- 
ing a wife Mary, and children : Ann, Martha, 
Betsy, and James; grandchildren Lillie 
Hamilton, David and John Maybin, Mary 
and Sarah Clark, David and William Craw- 
ford. 

Carson, William, of Paxtang, d. in Sep- 
tember, 1761, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and 
children : Sarah, Agnes, John, Jean, and 
Eliza. 

Carson, John, of Paxtang, d. in February, 
1765, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and children : 
William, John, and Elizabeth ; and step- 
children Sarah Willis and Tillie Gillespie. 
The executors weie Jeremiah Warder, John 
Ord, and John Pywell, all of Philadelphia. 

Carson, James, of Paxtang, d. in July, 
1773, leaving children : Jean and Andrew, 
brother Alexander, and sister Mary Sloan 
alias Thompson. 

Carson, John, of Paxtang, d. January, 1778, 
leaving children : Richard, John, George, 
and Jean, and son-in-law James Wilson. 
Sons Richard and George were the execu- 
tors. 

Curry, William, of Paxtang, d. in Feb- 
ruary, 1746, leaving a wife Agnes, and child 
Mar}', and brothers Robert Curry and An- 
drew Caldwell. 

Curry, Robert, of Paxtang, d. in May, 
1768, leaving a wife Mary Ann, and chil- 
dren: William, Margaret, Jean, Agnes, John, 
Daniel, and James. 

Crocket, John, of Derry, d. in March, 1768, 
leaving a wife Jean, and children : Thomas, 
Robert, John, and James. There were others, 
but not mentioned by name. Jean Cham- 
bers and Robert Bradshaw were the execu- 
tors. 



Caruthers, Robert, of Derry, d. November, 
1770, leaving a wife Eleanor, and a brother 
James. Robert Chambers and Jacob Cook 
were the executors. 

Caruthers, Robert, of Derry, d. April, 1772, 
leaving children : Mary, Eleanor, Dorcas, 
Jane, and Sarah, son-in-law Henry Taylor, 
and grandchild Robert McCartney. Jacob 
Cook and David Montgomery were the ex- 
ecutors. 

Carr, John, of Derry, d. February, 1789, 
leaving sisters Rosannah Campbell, Mary 
McMichael, and her children : John, James, 
Jean, and Mary ; Susannah, m. Coul- 
ter ; and bn ther Joshua ; also a sister's son, 
Robert Edmiston ; Susannah Caldwell, Mary 
Caldwell, and Rosannah Green. 

Cooper, William, of Hanover, d. April, 
1785, leaving a wife Sarah, and children : 
John, Robert, who had a son Robert, Mar- 
garet, m. Alexander Mitchell and had a son 
William, and Isabella, in. David Ramsey. 

Corbett, Peter, of Upper Paxtang, d. 1785, 
leaving his estate to his daughter Margaret, 

m. ■ Sturgeon, and other children : 

Jean, Peter, Samuel, John, and Thomas. 

Duncan, John, d. in 1746, leaving a wife 
Ann. 

Duncan, James, of Derry, d. in March, 
1758, leaving a wife Jean, and children: 
Mary, Elizabeth, Jean, Margaret, Anthony, 
James, Andrew, and Joseph. The execu- 
tors were Thomas Logan and Robert Boyd. 

Duncan, James, of Martick, d. in Septem- 
ber, 176'5, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and chil- 
dren : John, Robert, James, Andrew, Sarah, 
m. Robert Martin. The executors were wife 
Elizabeth and son John. 

Duncan, Jean, of Derry, d. October, 1765, 
leaving children: Joseph, Andrew, John, 
James, Elizabeth, Jean, and Margaret. John 
Steel and Patrick Hays were the execu- 
tors. 

Duncan, John, of Paxtang, d. October, 
1788, leaving wife Ann, brothers James, 
Robert, Andrew, sister m. John Hilton, and 
their daughter Jean, grandson David 
Ritchey, great-grandchildren John and Ann 
Ritchey. 

Dickey, George, d. in October, 1748, leav- 
ing a wife and children: James, William, 
John, Sarah, Susanna, Esther, Elizabeth, 
and Moses. Moses Dickey was executor. 

Dickey, Moses, of Paxtang, d. in Ma} 7 , 
1766, leaving a wife Agnes, and children : 
William, John, Catharine, m.John Forster, 
Sarah, m. John Carson, Agnes, m. Robert 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



61 



Dickey, and Moses. The executors were 
John and Moses Dickey. 

Deininger, Leonard, d. September, 1770, 
leaving a wife Mary Margaret, and children : 

Adam, Barbara, and Catharine, m. 

Leitzer. 

Dearmond, Mary, of Hanover, d. in March, 
17S0, leaving children: John, Sarah, Mar- 
garet, and Richard; grandchildren James 
Robertson and Mary Johnston. Richard 
Johnston and Richard Dearmond were the 
executors. 

Ettelin, David, of Paxtang, d. in May, 1 7S1, 
leaving a wife Anna Margaret, and children : 
Christina, John, Philip, Catharine, Conrad, 
David, and Anna. The executors were 
Christopher Heppich and Conrad Wolfley. 

Ellis, Ann, of Hummelstown, d. 1788, 
leaving children: Christiana, m. Samuel 

Miller; Ann, m. Wolfkill; and sister 

m. Mathias Hoover, and their son Ma- 
thias. 

Enterline, John Michael, of Upper Pax- 
tang, aged 74 years, d. March, 1800, leaving 
a wife Anna Barbara, and children: John 
Michael, John Paul, Daniel, Anna Mary, 
m. Adam Lenker, and Elizabeth, m. Henry 
Wirth. 

Foster, David, of Derry, d. in November, 
1745, leaving a wife Mary, and children: 
David, William, James, and Robert. The 
executors were Andrew Moore and John Mc- 
Queen. 

Foster, William, of Derry, d. March, 1764, 
leaving brothers James, John, Robert, and 
David. 

Foster, David, of Londonderry, d. in April, 
177S, leaving a wife Mary, and daughter 
Elizabeth. Mary and James Foster were the 
executors. 

French, James, of Hanover, d. in Septem- 
ber, 1764, leaving a wife Margaret, and 
children : Mary, Thomas, Isabel, James, 
Agnes, Elizabeth, John, Sarah, Ruth, and 
Margaret. 

Fleming, George, of Paxtang, d. in June, 
1768, leaving a wife Martha, and children: 
Elizabeth and Margaret. 

Fleming, John, of Derry, d. in April, 1777, 
leaving a wife Jean, and children : John, 
Margaret, Eleanor, and Ann. Jean Flem- 
ing and Jacob Cook were the executors. 

Finney, James, of Hanover, d. in April, 
1774, leaving a wife Jane, and children : 
Thomas, Mary, Jane, and Rebecca. 

Finney, Thomas, of Hanover, d. March, 
1786, leaving a wife Isabella, and children : 



Martha, Mary, Jane, Isabella, Margaret, 
Effie, John, and Henry. 

Flora, Joseph, Sr., of Paxtang, d. Septem- 
ber, 1785, leaving a wife Katharine, and 
children: David, deceased; Abraham, de- 
ceased ; John, deceased ; Katharine, m. John 
Bomberger ; Mary, m. Michael Bomberger ; 
Joseph, and Peter. Executors Katharine 
Flora and Conrad Wolfley. 

Fertig, Michael, of Middle Paxtang, d. prior 
to 1800, leaving a wife Mary, and children 
as follows: Michael, John, Zachariah, Peter, 
Adam, and Elizabeth, m. Jacob Bogner. 

Flack, Alexander, of Derry, d. March, 
1788, leaving by first wife Elizabeth, chil- 
dren : Martha, Christina, Margaret, William, 
Thomas, and Elizabeth ; by second wife 
Dorothy, children : Dorothy and Sabina. 

Fox, Peter, of Lower Paxtang, d. in May, 
1814, leaving a wife Anna, and the follow- 
ing children: Henry, Peter, and Anna. 

Forster, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. in July, 
1772, leaving brothers John and William; 
sisters Elizabeth, Margaret, Isabella, and 
Agnes. 

Fisher, George, of Paxtang, d. October, 
1781, leaving children: John, George, and 
Hannah. The executors were Joshua and 
Jonas Chamberlin. 

Graham, John, d. January, 1743, leaving 
a wife and children : William and John. 
Richard Sankey and Brice Sankey were ex- 
ecutors. 

Graham, James, d. in October, 1745, leav- 
ing a wife and children: James, John, and 
Mary. Richard Sankey and Patrick Wat- 
son were the executors. 

Graham, John. d. in December, 1763, leav- 
ing a wife Margaret, and brothers George 
and Robert. 

Graham, James, of Hanover, d. May, 1786, 
leaving a wife Agnes, and his estate to his 
brother John, deceased, and his children : 
William, James, and John; to sister Eliza- 
beth Innis, and her children : Elizabeth, 

Ann, m. Irwin, Rachael, m. David 

Sterrett, Mary, m. Timothy Green ; to sister 
Martha Graham and her children : Mary, 
m. - - Young, Jennie, m. - - Irwin, 



William, Martha, m. 



Black, John, 



Ann, and Samuel , to sister Ann Hender- 
son and her children : Mary, m. 



Smith, Samuel, and John; brother Alexan- 
der Graham, and his daughter Ann, m. 
Thomas Bell; sister Margaret and her chil- 
dren : Jennie Bell and Ann Crawford. 
Gilchrist, John, of Paxtang, d. in Feb- 



62 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



ruary, 1746, leaving a wife Jean, and chil- 
dren : James, John, Elizabeth, and Robert. 

Gilchrist, James, of Paxtang, d. April, 
1777, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
Eleanor, Mary, Margaret, Jean, Elizabeth, 
Martha, and John. Robert Gilchrist execu- 
tor. 

Gilchrist, James, d. May, 1782, leaving a 
wife Sarah, and children : Margaret, m. 
Charles Harrow, Sarah, m. James Robert- 
son, and Robert; grandchildren James and 
Alexander Harrow. 

Gilchrist, Robert, of Paxtang, d. July, 
1783, leaving a wife Sarah, and children : 
Thomas, John, Robert, Elizabeth, Eleanor, 
Agnes, and Sarah. 

Gilchrist, William, d. in March, 1795, 
leaving children: Sarah, Samuel, and a son- 
in-law James Cummings. 

Gilliland, Hugh, d. in November, 1750, 
leaving a wife Ann, and children : Mary, 
Eleanor, Ann, Elizabeth, Agnes, Robert, and 
Hugh. Executors wife Ann and brother 
John. 

Gillespie, Patrick, of Paxtang, d. in 
March, 1771, leaving a wife Mary, and chil- 
dren: John, William, Catharine, and Mary. 

Gallagher, John, of Paxtang, d. in April, 
1781, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and children : 
Sarah, Mary, Thomas, and William. The 
wife, with David Montgomery and Andrew 
Stewart, were the executors. 

Greenlee, James, of Hanover, d. March, 
1785, leaving wife and children : William 
and son James, James, Alexander, and 
Robert. 

Harper, Moses, of Paxtang, d. April, 1746, 
leaving his estate to his brother Samuel, sis- 
ter Jean, and nephew Moses Harper. 

Harris, John, of Paxtang, d. in 1748, leav- 
ing a wife Esther, and children : William, 
Samuel, David, Elizabeth, John, and Esther. 
John Harris and George Gibson were the 
executors. 

Hall, James, d. August, 1745, leaving a 
wife Catharine, and children : John, Will- 
iam, Jane, Mary, and Catharine. 

Hall, Hugh, of Derry, d. in. February, 
1758, leaving a wife Sarah, and children : 
John, George, Thomas, James, Hugh, Sam- 
uel, Rose, and William. Sarah Hall and 
Joseph Candour were the executors. 

Hall, Thomas, d. in March, 1759, leaving 
a wife Isabella, and children : Mary, Sarah, 
Hugh, Elizabeth, and John. The executor 
Isabella, his wife. 

Hall, Sarah, of Londonderry, d. April, 



1783, leaving children : Rose, in. Jacob Cook, 
Samuel, and William ; grandchildren Sarah 
Hall and Sarah Cook. 

Hendricks, Tobias, of Pennsboro, d. No- 
vember, 1739, leaving children : Henry, John, 
Rebecca, Tobias, David, Peter, Abraham, and 
Isaac. Executors were his wife and son 
Tobias. 

Hamilton, James, d. in December, 1748, 
leaving a wife Mary, and son James. He 
mentions his cousins Thomas and James 
Hamilton, and brother Hance Hamilton. 

Hamilton, Jean, of Londonderry, d. May, 
1801, leaving children: Elizabeth, William, 
and James. 

Hamilton, William, d. in 1782, having 
made his will September 17, 1778. In this 
he mentions his wife Jean, and the following 
children : Hugh, William, John, Robert, 
Ann, m. James Wallace, James, now in the 
army, Nancy, m. Thomas Wade. The ex- 
ecutor of the estate was his son Hugh. 

Hays, John, of Derry. d. May, 1766, leav- 
ing a wife Margaret, and children : Jean and 
William. The wife and Patrick Hays were 
executors. 

Hays, John, of Londonderry, d. in April, 
1774, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
James, Jean, Mary, John, and Sybil. The 
executors were wife Mary, and trusty friend 
William Hays. 

Hays, Hugh, of Londonderry, d. in April, 
1779, leaving a wife Mary, and child : Mar- 
garet. He speaks of his brother, Patrick 
Hays, and sisters Buchanan and Morrison. 

Hays, David, of Rapho, d. May, 1780, 
leaving a wife Jean, and children : Robert, 
John, Patrick; son-in-law Alexander Scott. 

Hays, Robert, of Derry, d. April, 1807, 
leaving a wife Margaret, and children : Mar- 
garet, John, Patrick, Robert, William, Sam- 
uel, and Joseph. 

Hough, Joseph, of Hanover, d. in July, 
1768, leaving children : Ann, Elizabeth, and 
Joseph. Executors were Joseph Stout and 
Samuel Jones. 

Haney, Margaret, of Paxtang, d. February, 
1771, leaving children : Jean, Margaret, m. 
Patrick Heaney, and Mary, and grandchild 
Howard Heaney, and brother John Scott. 

Hill, John, of Hanover, d. in June, 1770, 
leaving a wife Abigail, and children : Will- 
iam, Jenny, Ann, and Abigail. 

Hill, Robert, of Hanover, d. 1783, leaving 
children : William, Abigail, and Robert, 
and step-daughter Ann Morton. 

Heart, Henry, of Derry, d. in June, 1771, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



63 



leaving a wife Agnes, and a number of chil- 
dren. Names not given. 

Huston, Andrew, of Paxtang, d. in May, 
1782, leaving a wife, whose maiden name 
was Park. The legatees were : Brother 
James and his sons Andrew, James, William, 
and John, sister Margaret, wife of Thomas 
Mayes, niece Jean Hilton, niece Mary Smith, 
brother John and his son John, niece Mar- 
garet Stewart, nephew Robert Thome, the 
children of John Rutherford, Thomas, 
Samuel, John, William, Jean, Martha, and 
Mary, sister-in-law Margaret Rutherford. 
The executors were John Rutherford, Will- 
iam Thome, and Samuel Hutchinson. 

Hubler, Abraham, of Hanover, d. in Feb- 
ruary, 1777, leaving children: Barbara, m. 
Francis Alberdal. Jacob, Catharine, Salome, 
and John. 

Hutchison, John, of Hanover, d. in March, 
1784, leaving a brother Robert and a sister 
Lydia Scott. 

Hutchison, Joseph, of Hanover, d. in Feb- 
ruary, 1785, leaving children: Mary, in. 
Robert Moody, Lydia, m. James Wilson, 
step-daughter Margaret Robinson, and grand- 
children Joseph Willson, Elizabeth Jami- 
son, and Nancy Scott. 

Henderson, John, of Swatara, d. Septem- 
ber, 1801, leaving children: William, John, 
James, Alexander, Francis, and Mary, m. 
James Graham. 

Harrison, Sarah, widow, of East Hanover, 
d. August, 1806, leaving children : Elizabeth, 

m. Martin, Mary, in. Ward, 

Jane, Sarah, James, and Stephen. 

Hume, Mary, of Hanover, d. April, 1791, 
leaving brothers: John, William, and 
Thomas, and sister Martha. 

Hume, William, of Hanover, d. February, 
1792, leaving a mother Ann Hume, brothers 
James, Thomas, and John; sisters Isabel, 
Eleanor, and Martha. 

Irvine, William, of Pennsboro, d. in May, 
1748, leaving a wife Eleanor, and children: 
Mary, Francis, John,William, Robert, James, 
Samuel, and Alexander. 

Ireland, James, of Derry, d. September, 
1767, leaving a wife Anna, and child: Mary. 
The executors were Robert Wallace and 
Matthew Laird. 

Innis, Elizabeth, of Hanover, d. May. 178S, 
leaving daughters: Ann Irwin, Rachael, wife 
of David Sterrett, Elizabeth, wife of John 
Gilchrist, and Mary, wife of Timothy Green, 
son James Innis and grandson Brice Innis. 

Isenhower, Peter, of Paxtang, d. May, 1801, 



leaving a wife Ann, and children: Peter, 
Frederick and son John, Samuel, Michael, 
Elizabeth, Nicholas, Magdalena, Barbara, 
John, Catharine, Christina, Ann, Margaret, 
and Jacob. 

Johnston, Francis, d. September, 1752, 
leaving a wife Isabella and children : Mary, 
George, and John. 

Johnston, James, of Paxtang, d. Septem- 
ber, 1783, leaving children: James, Jean, m. 
John Foster; step-daughters Eleanor and 
Mary McClain; and grandchildren Martha 
Willson and Janet Means; son-in-law 
Thomas Means. 

Johnson, John, of Hanover, d. in Januar} r , 
1763, leaving children : Robert, William, and 
Mary. 

Jones, Darick, of Paxtang, d. in Juty, 1777, 
leaving a wife Jean, and children : William, 
Benjamin, Miriam, and Jean. Executors 
were wife Jean and brother Benjamin, resid- 
ing at Kirkwood, Hunterdon count} 7 , N. J. 

Jones, Isaac, of Halifax, d. January, 1816, 
leaving children as follows : Jacob, John, 
and George. 

Jury (Shora), Abraham, of Upper Paxtang 
d. September, 1785, leaving a wife Catharine, 
and children: Samuel, Abraham, Mary, 
Magdalena, Margaret and her son Andrew, 
Catharine, and Susannah. , 

Kerr, John, of Paxtang, d. in July, 1734, 
leaving a brother William, and nephew 
George, son of William. 

Kerr, James, of Paxtang, d. in June, 1748, 
leaving a wife and children : John, Joseph, 
William, Mary, James, and Nathaniel. The 
executors were James Morris and Thomas 
Elder. 

Kerr, John, of Derry, d. October, 1754, leav- 

ingchildren: Sarah, m. Carulbers,and 

James; grandchildren John, Robert, and 
Esther Caruthers. The executors were James 
Kerr and Seth Rogers. 

Kerr, John, d. in 177S, leaving brothers 
Michael and Thomas, and sisters Janet and 
Sarah. 

Kirkpatrick, William, of Paxtang, d. Sep- 
tember, 1760, leaving a wife Margaret, and 
children : John, William, Margaret, Anna, 
and Sarah. 

Kapp, Michael, d. in May, 1764, leaving a 
wife Margaret, and children: Christopher, 
Barbara, George, Valentine, John, Andrew, 
Michael, Anthony, Jacob, Peter, Susanna, 
Catharine, and Christina. 

Kapp, Margaret, widow, d. in December, 
1785, leaving children: Christopher, George, 



64 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



John, Andrew, Michael, Anthony, Peter, Bar- 
bara, Susanna, Catharine, and Christina. The 
executors were George Kapp and son-in-law 
Martin Frey. 

Kelly, George, of Derry, d. in September, 
1768, leaving wife Rosanna, and children : 
Andrew, Thomas, and Rachel. The wife and 
brother Patrick Kelly were executors. 

Kelly, Patrick, of Londonderry, d. in July, 
1770, leaving a wife Rachael, and children : 
Patrick, Thomas, James, Rachael, Mary, 
George, Anna, and John ; grandchild An- 
drew, son of George. 

Kirkwood, Robert, of Hanover, d. Septem- 
ber, 1771, leaving a son William and a 
brother William. Robert Wallace and James 
McCreight were the executors. 

Kittering, Adam, of Londonderry, d. in 
N( vember, 1775, leaving a wife Magdalena, 
and children : Valentine, Jacob, Michael, 
Lawrence, and Margaret, m. Mathew Stehley ; 
grandchildren Abraham and Barbara Steh- 
ley. 

Kennedy, David, of Paxtang, d. April, 
1775, leaving a wife Sarah. 

Kennedy, James R., of Paxtang, d. in Sep- 
tember, 1777, leaving a wife Mary ; his widow 
d. in September, 1777, leaving a brother 
John Kerleton. 

Kennedy, Thomas, of West Hanover, d. 
January, 1803, leaving a wife Jean, and chil- 
dren: Robert, Joseph, Mary, and Jean. 

Kerper, Frederick, of Londonderry, d. 
March, 1790, leaving a wife Margaret, and 
children : John, Nicholas, Jacob, Philip, 
Adam, Samuel, Catharine, m. Peter Becker, 
and Magdalena. 

Keiter, Peter, of Upper Paxtang, d. April, 
1801, leaving a wife Gertrude, and children: 
John, Peter, Gerhard, Benjamin, Margaret, 
m. Jacob Frack, Elizabeth, m. John Frey, 
Gertrude, m. Daniel Miller, Mary, Catha- 
rine, and Veronica. 

Koch, David, of Lower Paxtang, d. in No- 
vember, 1813. He left his estate to his 
mother, Eva Koch, and his sisters, as fol- 
lows: Magdalena, Jane, Catharine, and Eva. 

Kupper, John George, of Upper Paxtang, 
d. in April, 1780, leaving a wife Elizabeth, 
and children: Jacob, Elizabeth, Catharine, 
Anna Maria, Magdalena, and Adam. Ex- 
ecutors were Martin Weaver and John Mat- 
ter. 

Laird, James, of Derry, d. in November, 
1731, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
David and Mary. 

Laird, John, of Derry, d. in August, 1777, 



leaving a wife Agnes, and children : James, 
Hugh, John, Samuel, William, Elizabeth, m. 
Mathew McKinney, Mary, m. Andrew Rei- 
gart, and Jane. The executors were Hugh 
and James Laird. 

Laird, Agnes, dau. of Hugh Black and 
widow of John Laird, of Derry, d. March 
1779, leaving children : Hugh, Elizabeth, m. 
Matthew McKinney, Mary, m. Andrew Big- 
gar, James, John, Jean,m. Parkhill, 

Samuel, and William. Executors were James 
and John Laird. 

Lusk, James, of Paxtang, d. in May, 1768, 
leaving a wife and children : James, Patrick, 
William, Margaret, Martha, Elizabeth, Mary, 
Sarah, and Ann. 

Lusk, James, of Paxtang, d. May, 1778, 
leaving sisters Mary, m. John Bowman, 
Elizabeth, Sarah, Ann, and Margaret, and 
brother Patrick Lusk. 

LeRue, George, of Paxtang, d. in. Decem- 
ber, 1769, leaving brothers Isaac and Jonas 
LeRue. 

LeRew, Peter, d. December, 1744, leaving 
a wife Elizabeth, and children : John, 
George, Esther, Mary, Elizabeth, Catharine, 
and Peter. Nathaniel Lightner and Joseph 
Ferree were the executors. 

Landis, John, d. July, 1756, leaving a wife 
Margaret, and son John. There were other 
children whose names are not given. 

Landis, Henry, d. September, 1760, leav- 
ing a wife Mary, and son Henry. Other 
children not named. 

Landis, Felix, of Derry, d. in April, 1770, 
leaving a wife Mary, naming sons Peter and 
Jacob. The writer of the will was twice 
married, and there were minor children 
whose names are not mentioned. 

Landis, John, d. in November, 1771, leav- 
ing a wife Anna, and children : Mary, m. 
Christian Graybill, Rebecca, m. Martin Bear, 
and Sarah, m. Michael Wenger ; grandchild 
Jacob Grider. 

Landis, Barbara, d. in March, 1776, leav- 
ing a brother Henry. Executors were Rudy 
and Daniel Bollinger. 

Loss, Jacob, of Hanover, d. December, 
1781, leaving a wife Anna Dorothea, and 
children : John, Jacob, and George. 

Low, James, of Hanover, d. in July, 1782, 
leaving a wife Isabella, and children : James, 
George, John, Margaret, m. John Willson, 
Mary, and Isabella. Executors were John 
French and David Ramsey. 

Lecron, Daniel, d. prior to 1770, leaving a 
wife Maria Margaret, and issue: John, Mat- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



65 



thias, Andrew, Maria Susanna, Susanna, and 
Dorothea. 

Luther, Dr. John, of Harrisburg, d. Jan- 
uary, 1811, leaving children : Catharine, Cor- 
nelius, Martin, and John. 

Logan, John, of Londonderry, d. February, 
1788, leaving a wife Hannah, and children: 

Thomas, William, John, Margaret, m. 

Willson, Mary, m. Samuel McCleary. Ex- 
ecutors were William Duncan and William 
Logan. 

Middleton, William, of Paxtang, d. in Jan- 
uary, 1782, leaving a wife and children : 
John, William, Thomas, and George. 

Middleton, George, d. 1747, leaving a wife 
Mary, and children : Thomas, Robert, and 
William. 

McCallen, James, d. September, 1744, leav- 
ing a wife and children : John, James, Dolly, 
and Esther. 

McCallen, James, of Pennsboro, d. July, 
1747, leaving a wife Anna, and children : 
Alexander, William, James, and John. 

Mordah, John, d. in December, 1744, leav- 
ing a wife Agnes, and children : James, 
Henry, and Eleanor. 

Murray, John, of Paxtang, d. in June, 
1745, leaving his estate to James Armstrong 
and Thomas Gallagher. 

Mays, James, d. August, 1745, leaving a 
wife Margaret, and children : Rebecca, Mar- 
garet, James, and Andrew. Executors were 
wife and brother Andrew. 

Means, Samuel, of Paxtang, d. in Febru- 
ary, 1746, leaving a wife Griselda, and chil- 
dren : Nellie, Margaret, Andrew, Jean, Isa- 
bella, John, Mary, and Samuel. 

McMeen, William, of Pennsboro, d. in 
September, 1746, leaving a wife Jennie, and 
children: John, William, James, Thomas, 
and Rachael. Executors were James Woods, 
George Wright, and John McCormick. 

Mitchell, James, d. October, 1746, leaving 
children : James, Alexander, Thomas, Will- 
iam, Jean, Rachel, Mary, and Margaret. 

Mitchell, David, d. November, 1757, leav- 
ing children : Samuel, Jean, Margaret, Sarah, 
Abraham, George, and David. 

Mitchell, David, of Londonderry, d. April, 
1786, leaving children : Thomas, who had 
Jean, Elizabeth, and David ; Jean, who had 
a son David ; a daughter m. James Mc- 
Cord, David, Elizabeth, Eleanor, a daughter 
m. Thome, who had a son David. 

McDowell, James, d. August, 1746, leav- 
ing a wife Mary, and children : John, Mar- 
garet, Mary, Jean, Elizabeth, Abigail, and 



Sarah. Executors were Andrew Morrison 
and John McDowell. 

Montgomery, Robert, of Paxtang, d. in 
October, 1748, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and 
children : John, Jean, m. James Tolan; son- 
in-law George Clark, and grandchild Robert, 
son of John. 

McGee, John, of Derry, d. in 1748, leav- 
ing brothers and sisters: James, Elizabeth; 
Margaret, Jane, and Mary. 

McCleary, Andrew, d. in May, 1748, leav- 
ing a wife Isabella, and children : Samuel, 
Robert, and Hannah. Executors were Will- 
iam Maxwell and David Houston. 

McQuown, John, d. in July, 174S, leav- 
ing a wife Margaret, and children : Hugh, 
Thomas, John, Richard, Elizabeth, and Mar- 
garet. 

McKinney, John, of Paxtang, d. in No- 
vember, 1749, leaving a wife Jean, and 
among other children, a son John; mother, 
Martha McKinney ; brother Henry, and 
brother-in-law Thomas Harris — the latter 
three being executors. 

McFarland, James, d. January, 1752, leav- 
ing a wife Margaret, and brothers John 
and Joseph. Executors were wife Margaret 
and brother-indaw William Greer. 

McFarland, Daniel, d. July, 1752, leaving 
a wife and children : William and Marga- 
ret ; grandson James Chestnut. 

McFarland, Walter, of Hanover, d. July, 
1790, leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 
John, dec'd, who left children, Margaret, m. 
McBride, Catharine m. John- 
ston, and had Walter, Mary m. - Rid- 
dle, Walter, Rachel, m. 



Gibson, Ann, 
m. — -McCullough, and William; grand- 
son James McFarland. 

McFarland, Mary, of Derry, widow of John, 
d. August, 1780, leaving children: Walter, 
John, Mary, m. James Laird. 

McCosh, John, of Derry, d. in November, 
1754, leaving a wife Jannet. Executors were 
wife and Robert and William Bo.yd. 

McCosh, Jannet, of Deny, d. in October, 
1757, leaving brothers William and John and 
Alexander Boj'd. 

McAllister, Neal, of Derry, d. November, 

1757, leaving children : John, James, and 
Neal; grandchild Neal. 

McKnight, James, of Paxtang, d. in No- 
vember, 1753, leaving a wife Martha, and 
children : Francis, Samuel, and John. Ex- 
ecutors were wife Martha and brother William. 

McNeely, John, of Hanover, d. in October, 

1758, leaving a wife Martha, and child : 



66 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Rachael, rn. Gamble; grandchil- 
dren John and Janet Gamble and Chrissa 
Cooper. 

McKibben, Joseph, d. October, 1761, leav- 
ing a wife Elizabeth, and children: John, 
Joseph, James, and Elizabeth. 

McCord, William, d. March, 1761, leaving 
a child Martha, and sons-in-law George Alex- 
ander,. Thomas McCord, John Means, and 
John Montgomery. Executors were Patrick 
Montgomery and George Alexander. 

Mcllhenny, Alexander, of Hanover, d. 
April, 1761, leaving children: Agnes, Mary, 
Elizabeth, and Ann. 

McKee. James, of Derry, d. October, 1762, 
leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
Robert, James, and Samuel. Executors 
were Margaret and Robert McKee. 

Menelly, Martha, of Hanover, d. Novem- 
ber, 1762, leaving her estate to Robert and 
John Bell. 

Mays, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. July, 1764, 
leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
Thomas, Margaret, Rebecca, Andrew, Will- 
iam, John, Mary, Dorcas, Samuel, and 
Matthew. Executors, were wife Margaret and 
son Thomas. 

Maybane, John, Jr., of Derry, d. January, 
1765, leaving children: David and John, 
father John Maybane, father-in-law David 
Crawford, and brother William Maybane. 
The executors were John Maybane, Sr., and 
Andrew Roan. 

Maybane, John, of Derry, d. November, 

1769, leaving a wife Anna, and children : 
Robert, William, Elizabeth, m. Lind- 
say, Isabella, m. William Cusich, Jean, m. 

Leister, Mary, rn. Wiley, Janet, 

m. Joseph White, and Anna, m. James Pat- 
terson ; grandchildren Margaret and Anna 
Patterson, and John and David Maybane, 
children of son John. 

Martin, Samuel, of Paxtang, d. in May, 

1770, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and children: 
John, James, Jean, Elizabeth, Samuel, and 
Joseph. Executors were John Gilchrist and 
Matthew Smith. 

Martin, Robert, of Hanover, d. October, 
1773, leaving a wife Jane, and children : Ann, 
Robert, Jean, and Margaret. Executors 
were wife and son Robert. 

Moore, Andrew, of Derry, d. October, 1767, 
leaving children: Elizabeth, Mary, m. Joseph 
Crain, John, and William ; grandsons An- 
drew, son of William, and William, son of 
John. 

Montgomery, Archibald, of Derry, d. De- 



cember, 1773, leaving children : Archibald 
and Mary ; sons-in-law Samuel Hanna and 
Robert Walker. Executor was Adam Woods. 

Montgomery, Robert, of Paxtang, d. Feb- 
ruary, 1776, leaving a wife Sarah, and chil- 
dren : Mary, John, Hugh, David, and Eliza- 
beth. Executors were wife Sarah, Hugh 
Montgomery, and John Gallagher. 

Mintzker, Ludwig, of Upper Paxtang, d. 
February, 1777, leaving a wife and chil- 
dren : John, George, Casper, Mary, and 
Ludwig; sons-in-law Peter Hashouer and 
Henry Albright. 

Maurer, Philip, of Hanover, d. May, 1779, 
leaving a wife Anna Catharine, and children : 
Simon, Margaret, Catharine, Anna, in. 
Christopher Brown, and George. 

Myer, John, of Paxtang, d. April, 1782, 
leaving a wife Christina, and children : 
John, Elizabeth, Abraham, Solomon, Michael, 
and Samuel. Executors were wife and son 
John. 

Minich, William, of Paxtang, d. April, 
1784, leaving wife Gertraut, and children : 
George and William. 

Minich, George, of Hanover, d. April, 
1784, leaving wife Catharine, and children : 
Simon, Catharine, m. Jacob Kreamer, Mar- 
garet, m. John Zimmerman, Susannah, m. 
Jacob Sechily, Elizabeth, m. Adam Weaver, 
Christina, Rosanna, and George. 

Mills, William, of Derry, d. November, 
1784, leaving a wife Susanna, and children: 
Mary, Rebecca, Phoebe, and Susanna. Ex- 
ecutors were Susanna Mills, Francis Wilkin- 
son, and John Mills. 

Minshall, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. Decem- 
ber, 1784, leaving wife Mary, and children : 
Hannah, Joshua, John, Robert, Thomas, 
Jean, and Elizabeth ; son-in-law William 
Crabb. 

Maxwell, Robert, d. prior to March, 1761, 
for at that date his widow Catharine was the 
wife of James Porterfield. He left issue : 
James, Samuel, Robert, Margaret, Joseph, 
Thomas, Francis. 

McNeeley, Michael, of Hanover, d. Decem- 
ber, 1762, leaving wife Eleanor, and chil- 
dren : Margaret, Agnes, Margery, Eleanor, 
James, and Jean. Executors were wife and 
William Trousdale. 

McClure, David, d. in November, 1749, 
leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 
Elizabeth, Mary, Jane, William, Alexander, 
James, John, David, and Randal. Execu- 
tors were wife Margaret and son William. 

McClure, Thomas, of Hanover, d. April, 



■DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



67 



1765 ; leaving a wife, and children: John, 
Martha, William, and Thomas. There were 
two other daughters. 

McClure, Mary, of Hanover, d. April, 1773, 
leaving children : John, William, Mary, 
Martha, Jean, and Thomas. Executors were 
sons John and Thomas. 

McClure, Richard, of Paxtang, d. Novem- 
ber, 1774, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
Alexander, John, Jonathan, William, An- 
drew, Roan, Margaret, m. John Steel, Mary, 
m. Joseph Shearer, Catharine, m. Robert 
Fruit, Jean, m. Joshua Russell, Susannah, 
m. Hamilton Shaw, and David. Executors 
were sons Jonathan and Andrew. 

McClure, Thomas, of Hanover, d. January, 
1778, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
William, Thomas, and four daughters. 
Executors were William McClure and 
Thomas Finney. 

McClure, William, of Paxtang, d. April, 
1785, leaving a wife and children : Robert, 
Rebecca, Mary, Sarah, Margaret, and Jean. 
The. executors were brother Jonathan Mc- 
Clure, son Robert, and son-in-law Samuel 
Russell. 

Montgomery, Sarah, of Paxtang, d. Novem- 
ber, 1784, leaving children : William, Mary, 
Elizabeth, David, and Hugh ; grandchild 
Mary Gallagher. Executors were Hugh and 
David Montgomery. 

McKnight, Joseph, d. March, 1767, leaving 
children : Bernard, Joseph, William, Mar- 
tha, Jean, and Mary. Executors were Hugh 
Ray and John Rogers. 

McAllister, Rose, late of North Carolina, 
d. in February, 1770, leaving children : 
Jean, Grisel, Elizabeth, and Joseph; and 
step-daughter Mary McAllister. Executors 
were James McAllister and John Walker. 

McQueen, John, of Derry, d. prior to 1750. 
His children were: David, d. prior and left 
issue; Jane, m. John Bayley, of Donegal; 
Mary, m. James Anderson, of Donegal; Jo- 
siah, and Robert. 

McQueen, John, of Derry, d. November, 
1770, leaving children : John, Josias, Abra- 
ham, Rachael, Margaret, and Sarah. 

McQuown, Richard, d. November, 1778> 
leaving a wife Jean, and children, not 
named. Executors were Jean and John Mc- 
Quown. 

McFadden, James, d. March, 1775, leaving 
a wife Elizabeth, and child Mary. Execu- 
tors were Thomas Rutherford and Thomas 
McArthur. 

McMullen, William, of Paxtang, d. in 



March, 1782, leaving children : Jean, Sarah, 
Margaret, Eleanor, Mary, William, and 
James. Executors were sons William and 
James. 

McCormick, John, of Hanover, d. Decem- 
ber, 1784, leaving a wife Mary, and children: 
Margaret, Sarah, Henry, Jane, and John. 
Executors were Robert Moody and James 
Wilson. 

McCormick,William, of Hanover, d. March , 
1809, leaving estate to his brothers Henry 
and David, and sisters Isabella and Mary, 
m. David Ritchey, and sister-in-law Jean 
McCormick. 

McArthur, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. Jan- 
uary, 1785, leaving children : Catharine, 

Barbara, Mary, m. Peacock, and 

Thomas; grandchildren Thomas Peacock, 
Margaret and Rebecca Kyle. 

Moore, William, of Paxtang, d. June, 1776, 
leaving a wife Agnes. The legatees were 
William Gray and others. 

Martin, Robert, of Hanover, d. April, 1777, 
leaving mother Jean, and sisters Jean and 
Margaret. Executors were James Wilson 
and Isaac Hanna. 

Moore, Agnes, of Paxtang, d. October, 

1784, leaving her estate to her brother John 
Forster. 

McEwen, John, of Hanover, d. April, 1791, 
leaving a wife Eleanor, and children : Mar- 
garet, m. Samuel Ainsworth, Mary, Eliza- 
beth, Jean, m. William Sturgeon, Eleanor, 
m. Joseph Allen, John, James, Richard, and 
Thomas. 

Metzgar, Jacob, of Derry, d. July, 1786, 
leaving children : Jacob, Jr., Margaret, Eve, 
Barbara, and Susannah. 

McCullough, Archibald, of West Hanover, 
d. prior to 1792, leaving a wife Agnes, and 
issue : Archibald, John, and William. 

Miller, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. November, 

1785, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
George, Mary, John, Thomas, and Margaret. 
Executors were wife, son George, and Will- 
iam Crain. 

Miller, Daniel, of Londonderry, d. No- 
vember, 1801. leaving a wife Susannah, d. 
January, 1811, and children: Peter, Daniel, 
Susannah, m. Frederick Hoover, Mary, and 
Abraham. 

Miller, William, of Upper Paxtang, d. 
January, 1802, leaving a wife Catharine, and 
children : William, Barbara, and Catharine. 

Miller, Jacob, of Middle Paxtang, d. prior 
to 1801, leaving a wife Susanna, and issue : 
Jacob, m. Margaret , Daniel, m. Gert- 



68 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



root [Gertrude] , John, Adam, m. 

Mary — , resided in Harrisburg, Susanna, 

m. Harvey Creek, Margaret, m. Joseph Cog- 
ley, Elizabeth, m. Philip Ettinger. 

Miller, Jacob, of Derry, d. January, 1802, 
leaving a wife Christian, and children : Sam- 
uel, John, Elizabeth, and Ann. Executors 
were Christian Kaufman and Capt. William 
Louer. 

Matter, John, Jr., son of Michael Matter, 
of Upper Paxtang township, d. in February, 
1816, leaving a wife Anna Mary, and chil- 
dren as follows : Simon, Anna Mary, and 
Elizabeth. 

Moorhead, William, d. 1817, leaving a 
wife Elizabeth, and children : Eliza, Adaline, 
James Kennedy, William G., Joel B., and 
Henry C. 

McCall, James, of Upper Paxtang, d. Jan- 
uary, 1788, leaving a wife Mary, and chil- 
dren : Robert, James Plunket, Lydia, Ann 
Jane, and Margaret. 

McCallen, Robert, of Londonderry, d. Sep- 
tember, 1800, leaving his estate to his 
nephews and nieces, as follows - William, 
Margaret, John, Andrew, and Jean Huston ; 
James, Margaret, John, Robert, and Paul 
Geddis ; John, Sarah, Jean, Thomas, and 
Mary McCallen; Robert, Isabella, John, and 
Thomas Donaldson. 

Motter, John, of Upper Paxtang, d. May, 

1802, leaving a wife Salome, and children : 
John, Michael, Jacob, George, Adam, Anna. 
Maria, and Christian. 

Meek, Nicholas, of Harrisburg, d. April, 

1803, leaving a wife Catharine, and children : 
Philip, who had sons George, John, and 
Jacob ; John, Jacob, Henry, Mary, m. Henry 
Amend. 

Meyrick, Samuel, " Doctor of Physick," 
of Middletown, d. June, 1811. He directed 
his wife and son to continue " the apothe- 
cary shop." The children' were: Samuel, 
Ruth, and Esther. 

Neffer, Henry, of Deny, d. March, 1787, 
leaving a wife Catharine, and children : 
Christian, who* had sons Henry, Christian, 
and Peter; Ann, Elizabeth, Catharine, Juli- 
ana, and Christine. Executors were sons-in- 
law Martin Stahl, of Derry, and Peter 
Blosser, of Donegal. 

Neal, John, of Paxtang, d. October, 1791, 
leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 

Margaret, m. Cochran, James, John, 

Jean, m. Clark, Eleanor, m. 

Simpson, William had son John, Agnes, m. 



Fleming and had son James, Robert 

had son John. 

Null, George, of Derry, d. October, 1771, 
leaving a wife Catharine, and children : 
George, Mary, Christian, Catharine, John, 
and Elizabeth. Executors were wife and 
son George. 

Ney, Adam, of Derry, d. in February, 
1783, leaving a wife Veronica and children : 
Peter, John, William, Nicholas, Elizabeth, 
and Michael. Executors were sons William 
and Peter. 

Nafziger, Jacob, of Londonderry, d. Sep- 
tember, 1782, leaving a wife Anna, and chil- 
dren : Christian, Barbara, Jacob, and Joseph. 

O'Neill, Charles, of Paxtang, d. in Sep- 
tember, 1770, leaving children : William, 
Elizabeth, and Prudence. The executors 
were Alexander Johnson, William McClure, 
and John Barnet. 

Ober, Peter, of Londonderry, d. March, 
1801, leaving wife Frany, who was a daugh- 
ter of Joseph Forney, and children : John, 
Elizabeth, Mary, Catharine, Barbara, and 
Peter. 

Porterfield, Robert, of Hanover, d. April, 
1785, leaving a wife Ann, and children: 
Robert, and a daughter m. David Work, 
who had children : John and Ruth. He 
mentions granddaughter Grizzle Porter- 
field. 

Porter, James, Sr., of West Hanover, d. 
May, 1788, leaving a wife Jean, and chil- 
dren : Grizel, m. McCormick, Isabel, 

David, James, Robert, and Joshua. Execu- 
tors were Robert Moody and James Will- 
son. 

Patterson, William, of Paxtang, d. Octo- 
ber, 1745, leaving children : Samuel, Francis, 
Anna, Catrine, Jean, and Mary. Executors 
were Robert Taylor and Robert Baker. 

Patterson, Samuel, d. November, 1772, 
leaving a wife Mary, and children : James, 
Martha, Mary, Elizabeth, and Isabella. Ex- 
ecutors were wife Mary and William Patter- 
son. 

Powell, John, of Paxtang, d. November, 
1748, leaving a wife Margaret, and besides 
other children, a daughter Nancy. Execu- 
tors were wife Margaret and Thomas M.cKee 
and John Allison. 

Preece, Thomas, of Derry, d. 1759, leaving 
a wife Mary, and children: Johanna, Thomas, 
Joseph, David, Richard, Hannah, Mary, and 
Elizabeth. Executors were wife and son 
Thomas. 

Preece, David, of Hanover, d. November, 



DA UP BIN CO UN TY. 



69 



1774, leaving a wife Dorothea, and children: 
Elizabeth and Anna. 

Poh, Wendel, d. February, 1768, leaving a 
daughter, m. Haldeman, and a daugh- 
ter, m. Christian Shaub ; grandchildren 
Jacob, Christian, and Adam Haldeman. Ex- 
ecutors were wife Mary and Christian Shaub. 

Potts, Robert, of Paxtang, d. October, 1769, 
leaving a wife Sarah, and children : Rachael, 
Peggy, Jean, and Ann ; and sister Jean. Ex- 
ecutor was wife Sarah. 

Poorman, Stephen, of Paxtang, d. April, 
1782, leaving a wife Ann, and children : 
Chrisly, John, Stephen, Barbara, m. Elias 
Neglee, Mary, m. John Roop, Addy, m. Jacob 
Roop, Freny, m. Christly Stouffer, Ann, m. 
Henry Landis, and Elizabeth, m. Michael 
Poorman. Executors were Conrad Wolfly 
and Jacob Roop. 

Poorman, Jacob, of Paxtang, d. January, 
1784, leaving a wife Mary, and children, not 
named. 

Pettigrew, David, of Hanover, d. in July, 
1784, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and children: 
John, James, Rosa, Margaret, Catharine, and 
Elizabeth. 

Patton, David, Sr., of Paxtang, d. Septem- 
ber, 1784, leaving a wife Rebecca, and chil- 
dren : David, John, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Jane, 
Joseph, and Sarah, m. John Hatfield. Ex- 
ecutor was son David. 

Reid, Thomas, d. July, 1734, leaving a wife 
Mary, and children : John, Nathan, Eleanor, 
Alexander, Thomas, Mary, and James. Ex- 
ecutors were wife and son John. 

Read, Adam, of Hanover, d. January, 1769, 
leaving a wife Mary and children : Eleanor, 
m. Robert Whitehill, and Mary, m. John 
Harris. 

Reed, John, of Upper Paxtang, d. April, 
1777, leaving a wife Margaret, and children, 
names not mentioned. 

Rodgers, Robert, of Hanover, died Novem- 
ber, 1745, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and 
brothers George, Hugh, and Joseph Rodgers. 
Executors were John Harris and Robert 
Wallace. 

Rodgers, Seth, of Hanover, d. May, 1758, 
leaving a wife Katharine, and brothers 
Hugh and George. Executors were wife 
Katharine and brother Hugh. 

Riddel, John, of Hanover, d. in 1747, 
leaving a wife Sarah, father James, brother 
James, and sister Katharine. Executors were 
father and brother James. 

Robinson, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. August, 
1758, leaving a wife and a number of chil- 



dren, names not mentioned. Executors were 
James McKnight and Mathew Saylor. 

Robinson, Richard, d. February, 1768, leav- 
ing a wife Isabella, and children : Richard, 
James, John, Thomas, and Eleanor. Execu- 
tor was James Robinson. 

Robinson, Philip, d. May, 1770, leaving 
children: Samuel, Thomas, George, Agnes, 
and Sarah. Executors were Thomas and 
Samuel Robinson. 

Robinson, Thomas, of Hanover, d. Decem- 
ber, 1780, leaving wife Jean, and brothers 
Samuel and George Robinson. Executors 
were William Thome and James McCreight. 

Riddle, Tristram, of Hanover, d. 1759, leav- 
ing his estate to his father James Riddle, and 
brother James Riddle, Jr. Executors were 
William Young and Walter McFarlin. 

Riddle, James, of Hanover, d. August, 
1763, leaving a wife Janet, and children : 
James and Catharine, son-in-law Joseph 
Allen, grandson William Young. Execu- 
tors were Robert Wallace and Hugh Wilson. 

Russell, James, of Derry, d. June, 1761, 
leaving a wife Jean, and daughter Mary, 
brother James and sister Mary Ann Russell. 

Russell, Jean, of Derr} r , d. May, 1766, leav- 
ing a child : Mary, m. Oliver Ramsey. 

Rumberger, Christian, of Hanover, d. Jan., 
1776, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and chil- 
dren : George and Mary, m. Christopher Ryn- 
wine. Executors were Michael Brown and 
Adam Weiss. 

Roan, John, of Londonderry, d. February, 

1776, leaving wife Annie, and children : 
Flavel, Jean, Elizabeth, and Mary. Execu- 
tors were wife Anne, Robert Robinson, and 
Joseph Boyd. 

Rennick, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. April, 

1777, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
Mary, Jean, John, Margaret, and Ann. 

Rennick, John, of Paxtang, d. May, 1782, 
leaving children : Mary, Jean, John, Mar- 
garet, and Ann. Executor was John Will- 
son. 

Rutherford, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. May, 
1777, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
John, James, Samuel, Nell, Jean, Agnes, 
Mary, and Elizabeth ; son-in-law Andrew 
Mays. Executors were John and Samuel 
Rutherford. 

Robertson, James, of Hanover, d. in 
March, 1792, leaving a wife Margaret, and 
children : Robert, James, daughter, m. Alex- 
ander McGee and had a son James, Hugh, 
William, Jean, Rebecca, m. William Momtt, 
John, Mary, and Elizabeth. Executors were 



70 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



wife and son Robert, and brother-in-law 
Robert Moodv. 

Reel, Philip, of Paxtang, d. July, 1812, 
leaving a wife Catharine, and children as 
follows : Peter, Mary, Jacob, Sarah, Catha- 
rine, and Benjamin. 

Stewart, George, of Donegal, d. January, 
1732, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
Francis, Elizabeth, ra. Samuel Fulton, John, 
and Mary. Executors were wife and son 
John. 

Stewart, William, d. May, 1748, leaving a 
wife Mary, daughter Isabel, and son Thomas. 
Executors were wife Mary and Thomas 
Wilson. 

Stewart, John, of Donegal, d. 1749, leav- 
ing a wife Ann, and children : George, Suit, 
and Jean. Executors were wife and James 
Anderson. 

Stewart, Rebecca, of Donegal, d. January, 
1749, leaving children : Charles, Robert, 
William, and Frances. Executors were John 
Galbraith and James Kerr. 

Stewart, Andrew, of Paxtang, d. July, 
1774, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
James, John, Mary, Elizabeth, Charles, and 
Andrew. Executors were James and An- 
drew Stewart and Dr. Thomas Wiggins. 

Stewart, John, of Hanover, d. April, 1777, 
leaving a wife Jennet, and children : Anna, 

m. Smiley, Sarah, Jean, m. John Mc- 

Callen, Margaret, Mary, m. Johnson, 

James, John, and Samuel. 

Stewart, James, of Hanover, d. November, 
1783, leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 
Charles, Lazarus, and James; grandchil- 
dren Lazarus Stewart, son of Lazarus, and 
William Campbell. 

Stewart, Frances, widow, of Hanover, d. 
November, 1790, leaving children: William, 
who had a daughter Frances, Lazarus, who 
had a daughter Frances, John, Mary, m. 

George Espy and had Mary, Jean, m. 

Armstrong, George, and James. 

Snoddy, William, of Derry, d. May, 1735, 
leaving a wife, and a number of children. 
Executors were John McQuown and James 
Laird. 

Snoddy, John, of Derry, d. May, 1736, 
leaving anumber of children. Executor was 
John McQuown. 

Snoddy, Jane, of Hanover, d. November, 
1746, leaving daughter Isabella, and step- 
daughter Margaret Snoddy. Executor was 
John McQuown. 

Snoddy, Matthew, d. August, 1780, leaving 
a wife Mabel, and children: John, Mary, Isa- 



bella, Matthew, William, Elizabeth, and 
Mabel. Executors were wife and son John. 

Simpson, John, of Fishing Creek, d. Sep- 
tember, 1738, leaving his estate to Thomas 
Armstrong. 

Simpson, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. May 
1761, leaving a wife and children: John, 
Thomas, Michael, Rebecca, William, Samuel, 
Joseph, and Edward. Executors were wife 
and son John. 

Simpson, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. Novem- 
ber, 1772, leaving a wife Jean, and children : 
Samuel, Thomas, Nathaniel, and Sarah, m. 

Forster, and son-in-law William 

Harper, living in Ireland. 

Simpson, Thomas, of Paxtang, d. Febru- 
ary, 1777, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
Michael and Thomas. Executors were Mar- 
garet and Michael Simpson and John Elder. 

Simons, Michael, of Hanover, d. in May, 
1775, leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
Peter, John, Mary, m. Thomas Hears, Eliza- 
beth, m. William Weirick, a daughter m. 
Henry Fensler, and Catharine, m. Peter 
Weirick. 

Sawyer, William, of Londonderry, d. in 
October, 1784, leaving his estate to his " dear 
auld woman Sophia," and children : William, 
Benjamin, John, and Hannah. 

Steekley, Christian, of Derry, d. in Octo- 
ber, 1767, leaving a wife Catharine and 
children : John, Barbara, Chrisly, Abraham, 
Mary, and Catharine. The executors were 
Jacob and John Lehman, of Derry. 

Sloan, John, d. in September, 1741, leaving 
a wife Jean, and children : James, Robert, 
William, John, Sarah, and Agnes. Execu- 
tors were James Walker and George Espy. 

Sloan, Samuel, d. September, 1777, leaving 
brothers John, James, Archibald and Will- 
iam ; sisters Mary, m. James Michaels, and 
Elizabeth ; nephew Archibald Sloan, son of 
John, and niece Elizabeth, daughter of 
William. Executors were Archibald Sloan, 
David Allen and John Campbell. 

Sloan, James, of Hanover, d. December, 
1775, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
William, James, and Mary; son-in-law Peter 
Hastings. Executors were William and 
James Sloan. 

Swan, James, of Hanover, d. December, 
174L, leaving a wife Mary, and children: 
James, Alexander, Margaret, and Jane. Ex- 
ecutors were Alexander and Mary. 

Swan, Alexander, of Hanover, d. Febru- 
ary, 1778, leaving a wife Margaret, and be- 
sides other children : Samuel, Alexander, 





/ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



73 



and Jean. Executors were Joseph Barnet 
and John Gilchrist. 

Swan, William, of Paxtang, d. October, 
1782, leaving a wife Martha, and children : 
Margaret, Sarah, and Moses, and brother 
Richard. Executors were Richard Swan 
and John Wilson. 

Steele, Thomas, of Hanover, d. March, 
1746, leaving a wife Agnes, and son David. 
Executors were Richard McClure, John 
Steeass, and Agnes Steele. 

Sterrett, John, d. April, 1748, leaving a 
wife Martha, and children: James, Joseph, 
Mary, Ann, Rebecca, Elizabeth, m. Edward 
Crawford, Martha, m. Joseph Wilson, and 
Sarah, m. Abraham Lowrey. 

Sterrett, Martha, d. April, 1754. leaving 
children : Anne, Rebecca, James, and Joseph; 
grandchild John, son of James. Executors 
were Andrew Work and Andrew Sterrett. 

Sterrett. Samuel, of Hanover, d. March, 

1776, leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
Alexander, Benjamin, Samuel, Elizabeth, 
John, and William ; sons-in-law Moses Shaw 
and William Hall; granddaughter Sarah 
Shaw, child of Moses. Executors were John 
and William Sterrett. 

Sterrett, Robert, of Paxtang, d. March, 

1777, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 

Agnes, m. Hanna, Mary, m. John 

Bowman, William, James, David, and Rob- 
ert ; grandchildren James and Robert Ster- 
rett and Mary Bowman, daughter of Mar}'. 

Semple, Hugh, d. May, 1749, leaving a 
wife, and brother-in-law James Graham. 
Executors were William Cunningham and 
John McClure. 

Semple, James, of Derry, d. October, 1758, 
leaving a wife Ann, and children : John, 
Isabella, Sarah, and Ann ; son-in-law James 
Henry. Executors were wife Ann and 
brother Robert. 

Semple, John, d. January, 1758, leaving a 
wife Hannah, and children : Robert Mc- 
Coses, William, and James. 

Smith, Robert, of Paxtang, d. March, 1757, 
leaving a wife Mary, and children : Matthew, 

m. Agnes , Rebecca, Robert, b. 1747, 

and David, b. 1749. 

Smith, James, of Paxtang, d. September, 
1775, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 

John, James, Williams, m. Mary and 

had Thomas, who was a surveyor, Robert, 
Samuel, Agnes, Joseph, and Mary. In the 
will he speaks of his " brother John Cate, of 
Neelytown, in the county of Ulster, New 
YorK" 



Strain, John, d. August, 1752, leaving a 
wife Mary, and children: David, William, 
Gilbert, John, Mary, and Robert. Executors 
were James Dixon and William Watson. 
Granddaughter Elizabeth Strain. 

Strain, Robert, of Hanover, d. September, 
1753, leaving brothers John, David, William, 
and Gilbert; sister Mary Thompson. Ex- 
ecutors were James Dixon and William 
Watson. 

Strain, Thomas, of Hanover, d. February, 
1780, leaving a wife Hannah, and children : 

Sarah, m. Edwards, John, and 

Thomas ; sons-in-law James Miliken and 
William Thompson ; granddaughter Mar- 
garet Miliken. Executors were sons John 
and Thomas. 

Strain, David, of Hanover, d. September, 
1783, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and chil- 
dren : John, Alexander, and William ; sons- 
in-law James McCreight and John Wilson. 

Snodgrass, James, d. May, 1750, leaving a 
wife, and children : William, James, Ann, 
Sarah, Elizabeth, and Mary. Executors 
were Andrew Caldwell and John Snodgrass. 

Snodgrass, Alexander, d. May, 1750, leav- 
ing a wife, and children: William, James, 
and Robert. Executors were John Caldwell 
and Patrick Johnson. 

Snodgrass, Robert, of Hanover, d. March, 
1777, leaving children: Joseph, James, 
Elizabeth, Margaret, Mary, Susannah, and 
Isabella. Executors were George Sanderson 
and John Snodgrass. 

Smith, John, of Paxtang, d. May, 1777, 
leaving children : Robert, Andrew, Marga- 
ret, and Rebecca. Executors were Matthew 
and Andrew Smith. 

Smith, Jacob, of West Planover, d. July, 
1815, leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 

Elizabeth, m. Ziegler, Hannah, m. 

Henry Balsbaugh, Abraham, .David, Daniel, 
Jacob, deceased, and John, deceased, leaving 
a son Samuel. 

Sharp, Thomas, d. January, 1758, leaving 
a wife Ketrine, and children : John, Ann, 
Sarah, Thomas, and Mary. Executors were 
Philip Robinson and John Sharp. 

Sharp, Edward, of Paxtang, d. October, 
1765, leaving a wife Sarah, and children : 
Henry, Edward, and Eleanor. Executors 
were William Sharp and Michael Graham. 

Sharp, Dietrick, of Paxtang, d. April, 
1765, leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
Sophia and Eva. Executors were Jacob 
Loeser and John Backenstoes. 

Stehley, Christian, of Derry, d. October, 



74 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



1767, leaving a wife Catharine, and children : 
John, Barbara, Chrisley, Mary, Abraham, 
and Catharine. 

Stehley, John, d. October, 1776, leaving a 
wife Elizabeth, and children: John, Eliza- 
beth, Martin, Christian, Mary, and Jacob. 
Executor was wife Elizabeth. 

Stouffer, Jacob, of Derry, d. February, 

1768, leaving a wife Magdalena, and chil- 
dren : Christian, Anna, Mary, and Eva. Ex- 
ecutors were Ulrich Burkholder and Yost 
Brand. 

Steele, William, of Paxtang, d. July, 1769, 
leaving children : John, Samuel, Agnes, m. 
John Boggs, Elizabeth, m. Thomas McNutt, 
David, Mary, Jean, and William ; grand- 
children William McNutt and William 
Boggs. 

Stephen, Andrew, of Paxtang, d. Febru- 
ary, 1770, leaving a wife Ann, and children: 
Hugh, Ann, Andrew, and Hezekiah. Ex- 
ecutors were wife, John Gilchrist, and John 
Forster. 

Symons, Nicholas, of Hanover, d. M&y, 

1775, leaving wife Margaret, and children : 
Peter, John, and Elizabeth, m. William 
Warick ; son-in-law Henry Fensler. Ex- 
ecutors were Peter Hedrick and Abraham 
Hubley. 

Schweigert, Peter, of Upper Paxtang, d. 
August, 1775, leaving a wife Christina, and 
children : Peter, John, Adam, Andrew, Jonas, 
Elizabeth, and Ann. Executors were Peter 
Schweigert and Valentine Brauch. 

Sherer, Joseph, of Paxtang, d. November, 

1776, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
Samuel, John, William, Catharine, Mary, m. 
Samuel Cochran, Jean, Richard, and Joseph. 

Sturgeon, Samuel, d. March, 1750, leaving 
children : Thomas, Jean, and Sarah. Ex- 
ecutors were James Armstrong and Thomas 
Sturgeon. 

Sturgeon, Samuel, Sr., of West Hanover, 
d. October, 1801, leaving a wife Margaret, 
and children : William, Jeremiah, James, 
Samuel, Andrew, Martha, John, and Allen. 

Sturgeon, Jean, widow of Robert, d. Febru- 
ary, 1809, leaving children : Jean, Effie, Jere- 
miah, who had Jean, Thomas, who had Jean, 
Timothy, who had Jean and Samuel. 

Snyder, Leonard, of Upper Paxtang, d. 
October, 1801, leaving children : Leonard, 
Nicholas, Catharine, Jacob, Christopher, and 
Samuel. 

Snyder, John, of Hanover, d. July, 1791, 
leaving a wife Veronica, and children : John, 
Christian, Abraham, Barbara, and Peter. 



Snug, Christian, of Upper Paxtang, d. 
February, 1786, leaving a wife Catharine, 
and children : Catharine, m. John Nicholas 
Baer, Elizabeth, Eva, Catharine, rn. Christo- 
pher Yeager, Margaret, Ann, Mary, Char- 
lotta, Susannah, Margaret, m. John Yeager, 
Christine, Christian, Philip, Magdalena, and 
John. Executors were John Motter, Sr., and 
Leonard Snyder. 

Sawyer, Sophia, widow of William Sawyer, 
d. September, 1788, leaving children: John, 
Sophia, Hannah, m. John Logan, Benjamin, 
a daughter m. William Duncan and had 
William, William and daughter Mary, 
Thomas and son William. 

Sawyer, William, of Derry, d. in October, 
1784, leaving a wife Sophia, and children : 
John, Hannah, William, and Benjamin. 
Executors were William and Benjamin Saw- 
yer. 

Sawyer, Benjamin, of Londonderry, d. 
January, 1792, leaving a wife Margaret, and 
children: Thomas, William, James, and 
Hannah. 

Singer, Simon, d. in 1763, leaving a wife 
Elizabeth, who afterwards married Henry 
Eby, and children : John, Simon, Barbara, 
Elizabeth, Jacob, Catharine, Henry, Anna, 
and Mary. 

Singer, John, of Derry, d. May, 1790, leav- 
ing a wife Barbara, and among other chil- 
dren : Conrad and David. 

Singer, Jacob, of Derry, d. November, 1800, 
leaving a wife Franey, and children : Jacob, 
Daniel, Anna, and Ephraim. 

Shope, Bernard, of Paxtang township, d. 
August, 1813, leaving children : Barbara, 
m. Henry Michael, Julianna, m. George Sil- 
sel, Jacob, Margaret, Mary, Christiana, Mag- 
dalena, Adam, Bernhart, and Eve, deceased. 

Shearer, Michael, of Paxtang, d. January, 

1777, leaving a wife Ann, and son Daniel. 
Shaw, Daniel, of Hanover, d. in March, 

1778, leaving a wife Phebe, and children : 
Samuel, Jean, m. William Haggerty, and 
Robert. Executors were Joseph Brown and 
William Hutchison. 

Shaw, Samuel, of Hanover, d. in Novem- 
ber, 1778, leaving a brother Robert and sis- 
ter Jean, m. William Haggerty. . 

Shaw, Alexander, of Paxtang, d. in De- 
cember, 1785, leaving his estate to James 
Monteith. Executor was Samuel Lyon. 

Scott, Patrick, of Paxtang, d. in June, 
1782, leaving a wife Ann, and children ; 
Robert, Jane, m. Flannigan ; and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



75 



grandchildren Alexander, Samuel, and 
Violet Jackson. 

Stoner, Catharine, of Paxtang, d. June, 

1785, leaving children : Susanna, m. 

Co wen, and John ; grandchild Catharine 
Co wen. 

Tait, William, of Deny, d. 1749, leaving 
a wife Rebecca, and children : Mary, m. 
Robert Stratford, and Robert ; grandchildren 
Mary and Margaret Tait, children of Robert. 
Executors were wife. Rebecca and Alexander 
McCane. 

Teas, John, of Hanover, d. May, 1752, 
leaving a wife Martha, and children : Mary 
and Thomas. Executors were wife Martha 
and James Karris. 

Taylor, Robert, owned the farm at Pine 
Ford, in Derry township. In 1762 his widow 
was the wife of Charles McCormick. The 
farm of 150 acres was purchased by the 
eldest son for £270. The children of Robert 
Taylor then living were : Henry, Catharine, 
m. John Sterling, William. Robert, Matthew, 
Jane, John, Elizabeth and Ann. The son 
of John was then a minor, and John Laird 
was appointed guardian of his estate. 

Taylor, David, of Derry, d. November, 
1761, leaving a wife Agnes, and children: 
John, Mary, Esther, Agnes, and Janet. Ex- 
ecutors were wife Agnes, and John and Pat- 
rick Hays. 

Todd, Hugh, of Hanover, d. 1772. Records 
of will missing. 

Todd, James, of Hanover, d. November, 
1783, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
John, James, David, and Isabella, m. John 
Johnson. 

Thompson, John, of Hanover, d. Septem- 
ber, 1778, leaving children: William, Jean, 
in. John Robinson, John, and Andrew. 

Trousdale, William, of Hanover, d. April, 

1785, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and children : 
Jean and Henry; also brothers Thomas 
and John Trousdale. 

Thornton, Matthew, of Hanover, d. April, 

1786, leaving a wife Agnes, and children : 

Mary, Nancy, m. Jamison, and had 

Matthew, William, Martha, m. Thomp- 



son and had Agnes, Margaret m. 
Butler. 

Tifebaugh [Diffenbaugh], George, of Pax- 
tang, d. November, 1788, leaving a wife, 
Mary, and children: Elizabeth, m. John 

Shoop, Catharine, m. Moore, George, 

Mary, Adam, John, Jennie, and Daniel. 
Executors were wife, son George, and brother 
Michael. 



Templeton, Robert, of Hanover, d. Octo- 
ber, 1789, leaving a wife Agnes, who d. Feb- 
ruary, 1790. Their children were: Jean, m. 
Robert Henry, Mary, m. Charles McCoy, 
Ruth, m. John Johnson, John, Agnes, in. 
Samuel Stewart and had Agnes and Mary, 
Sarah, m. William Clark, Barbara, m. Henry 
McCormick, Susannah, m. James Hathorn, 
Hannah, m. Duncan Sinclair, and Robert, 
who had William and Richard. 

Vance, Moses, of Paxtang, d. April, 1786, 
leaving a wife Anna, and children : William, 
Adam, Jane, m. Edward Ashcraft, Elizabeth, 
and Sarah. Executors were wife and son 
William. 

Vance, John, of Hanover, d. July, 1734, 
leaving a wife Mary, and children: Hugh, 
George, and Jean. Executor was Jared 
Graham. 

Van Lear, Christopher, of Derry, d. Au- 
gust, 1750, leaving children : John, William, 
James, Mar3 r , Michael, and Christopher. 

Van Lear, Michael, of West Hanover, d. 
April, 1801, leaving a wife Mary, and chil- 
dren: John, Agnes, m. John Thompson, and 
Sarah. 

Wilson, John, of Paxtang, d. September, 

1738, leaving his estate to his father Alex- 
ander and brother Joseph Wilson. 

Wilson, David, of Hanover, d. August, 

1739, leaving a wife Rebecca. 

Wilson, George, of Paxtang, d. 1750, leav- 
ing a brother John Wilson and sister Eliza- 
beth Wilson, m. Thomas Lennox. 

Wilson, John, of Paxtang, d. May, 1762, 
leaving a wife Martha, and children : John, 
Sarah, William, Martha, and Jean. His 
wife and brother Joseph Wilson were execu- 
tors. 

Wilson, David, d. in March, 1766, leaving 
a wife Margaret, and children: Samuel, 
Robert, and Elizabeth, m. Samuel Woods 
and had Nathan. 

Wilson, Moses, of Derry, d. February, 1781, 
leaving children : John, Catharine, Mary, 
Martha, Susannah, and James; grandchil- 
dren Moses and William Wilson, Jane Kear, 
and Elizabeth Wilson. 

White, John, of Hanover, d. March, 1740, 
leaving a wife Barbara, and children: Alex- 
ander, Thomas, and Anna. Executors were 
John Brandon and James Sturgeon. 

White, Josiah, of Hanover, d. July, 1753, 
leaving a wife Agnes, and children : Josiah, 
Benjamin, Samuel, John, James, Daniel, 
and Isabella. Executors were John Bar- 
nett and Josiah White. 



76 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



White, William, of Derry, d. July, 1783, 
leaving a sister Mary, m. Thomas Mont- 
gomery, and nephew Thomas White. Ex- 
ecutors were James Scott and John White. 

Watson, William, of Hanover, d. in Octo- 
ber, 1770, leaving a wife Sarah, and chil- 
dren : Samuel, William, Hugh, David, Pat- 
rick, a daughter m. Alexander Kennedy, 
Sarah, Eleanor, Mary, Martha, Ann, and 
Jean. 

Welsh, James, of Paxtang, d. April, 1754, 
leaving a wife Mary and children : John, 
Thomas, James, Robert, Joseph, Jean, Isa- 
belle, and Mary. Executors were wife and 
son John. 

Welsh, James, of Derry, d. September, 
1769, leaving a wife Jane, and children : 

Elizabeth, m. McConnell, Mary, in. 

— , Anna, Margaret, Martha, and 



leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
James, Agnes, Archibald, Sarah, m. 



Samuel. 

Woods, Adam, of Hanover, d. August, 
1756, leaving a wife Sarah, and children : 

Andrew, John, Margaret, m. Patton, 

Janet, m. - — Calhoun, Jiles, m. 

Cochran, and 



McAllister, Sarah, m. 

Martha, m. James McClenaghan. 

Woods, Andrew, of Hanover, d. April. 
1769, leaving a wife Jean, and brother John. 
Executors were wife and brother John. 

Woods, John, of Hanover, d. December, 
1769, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
George, Andrew, Samuel, Sarah, Anna, 
Margaret, Janet, Mary, Elizabeth, and Mar- 
tha. Executors were wife, Josiah Espy, and 
James McClenaghan. 

Woods, Rev. Matthew, of Hanover, d. Jan- 
uary, 1785, leaving wife, and several chil- 
dren, not named. Executors were Samuel 
Kearsley and John Ainsworth. 

Wylie, Oliver, of Paxtang, d. October, 
1757, leaving a wife and children : Margaret, 
Oliver, and William. Executors were John 
Harris and Thomas. 

Wiggins, John, of Paxtang, d. February 
1762, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
John, Agnes, James, Jean, Martha and Mar- 
garet. Executor was John Wiggins. 

Wright, James, of Hanover, d. March, 
1764, leaving a wife Margaret, and children: 
William, Margaret, Ann, Agnes, Jean, and 
Eleanor. 

Wright, William, of Hanover, d. October, 
1782, leaving a wife Margaret, and children : 
Margaret and Mary, m. John Elder. Ex- 
ecutors were Margaret Wright and James 
McMillan. 

Walker, James, of Derry, d. April, 1753, 



Oaruthers, and Mary, m. Andrew Roan ; 
grandchild James Caruthers. 

Walker, James, of Paxtang, d. October, 
1784, leaving a wife Barbara, and children : 
William, Isabella, James, David, Robert, 
Thomas, and John; grandchildren Catharine 
and Rachael Galbraith. Executors were 
wife Barbara and John Forster. 

Walker, James, of Londonderry, d. prior 
to 1785. His widow Martha in 1787 was 
the wife of Samuel Weir. The children 
were: Archibald, William, Margaret, Mary, 
and Lettice. 

Whitley, Michael, who died in 1777 from 
wounds received at Chestnut Hill, left a wife 
Martha, and children : Michael, William, 
Sarah, Elizabeth, Mary, Jane, and Martha. 

Walter, Jacob, of Paxtang, d. March, 1782, 
leaving wife Juliana and son Michael. 

Wallace, Robert, of Hanover, d. April, 

1783, leaving a wife Mary, and children : 
Moses, James, Isabella, and Mary ; sons-in- 
law Thomas McNair and Joseph Boyd ; 
grandchildren Mary Boyd, Robert Wallace, 
son of Moses, and Martha McNair. 

Wallace, James, of Paxtang, d. March, 

1784, leaving a wife Elizabeth, and step- 
children : Robert and Rachael Elder ; and 
grandchild Thomas Elder. 

Wetherhold, Susanna, widow, of Harris- 
burg, d. July, 1812, leaving children as fol- 
lows : Margaret, tn. Barnett ; Eliza- 
beth, m. Wingert, and had Charles 

and John ; John, of Hummelstown, m., and 
had Elizabeth, m. Peter Snyder, and had 
Charles, and Susanna ; and George. 

Willson, John, of Londonderry, d. July, 
1812, leaving his estate to his brother Will- 
iam Willson and wife Mary, and sister 
Syble, nephews Moses, Hugh, and John Will- 
son, and nieces Ann and Mary Willson. 

Willson, John, Sr., d. October, 1801, leav- 
ing his estate to his nieces Jean Robinson, 
Martha Young, Sarah Willson, Martha 
Smith, Jean Willson, wife of John ; Sarah 
Galey, and Martha Caddow ; to nephews 
Samuel, John, Abraham, William, John, 
and James Willson ; sister Jean Willson. 

Willson, James, of West Hanover, d. Oc- 
tober, 1806, leaving children : James, Eliza- 
beth, m. Robert Sturgeon, Ann, m. James 
Moorehead, Mary, John, Samuel, Rachel, 
Thomas, Lucy, m. Thomas Bell, and Mar- 
tha. Executors were Samuel Willson and 
William Allen. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



77 



Young, Alexander, of Paxtang, d. March, 
1751, leaving a wife Mary, and a number of 
children. Mentions father-in-law James 
Willson. 

Ziegler, Jacob, d. October, 1750, leaving a 
wife Barbara, and children : Margaret, Mary, 
Philip, and Ann. 

Ziegler, George, d. September, 1769, leav- 
ing children by first wife Mary : Jacob and 
Mary; by second wife Catharine : Ann, Bar- 
bara, George, and Frederick. 

Zent, Jacob, of West Hanover, d. in 1809, 
leaving children as follows: Elizabeth, m. 
Valentine King and had a daughter Su- 
sanna, John, Phoebe (Pevey), m. Christian 
Kish, Marj r , m. Abraham Houser, Catharine, 
m. John Snyder, Susanna, m. Jacob Moyer, 
and Jacob. 



CHAPTER VII. 



Some Early Dauphin County Families. 

[It is not intended to give a complete 
genealogical record of Dauphin county fami- 
lies. Records of other families have ap- 
peared in print or it has been proposed to 
publish them in distinct publications. Taken 
in connection with the Chapter of Genealogi- 
cal Records, this information, limited as it 
may be, is of great value. There may be 
errors here and there, but these will prob- 
.abby prove unimportant. The editor can- 
not verify every statement given him. The 
hope is that from this meager data many 
may see the value thereof, and at once pro- 
ceed to gather up the valuable records of 
their own family, and preserve it for those 
coming after.] 

The Family of the Founder of Harris- 
burg. 

John Harris, the first, was a native of 
Yorkshire, England, where he was born 
about the year 1673. He was a brewer by 
occupation, and at his majority came to 
America with several of his brothers. Wat- 
son, the annalist, states that John Harris' 
"entire capital amounted to only sixteen 
guineas." Although spending a few years 
in the new city of Philadelphia, at a time 
when it was decided to license hut English 
born persons as Indian traders, he with one 
or two of his brothers entered that lucrative 
business. In January, 1705, the commis- 



sioners of property authorized and allowed 
him " to seat himself on the Sasquahannah 
at Pextang, to erect such buildings as are 
necessary for his trade, and to enclose and 
improve such quantity of land as he shall 
think fit." Mention is made of him in the 
Colonial Records, and among the fac-similes 
of Indian autographs is that of John Hans. 
An examination of the original show this to 
be a misprint for John Harris. The auto- 
graph I. H. is especially amusing, placing 
him among the Indian chiefs of the time. 
By comparing this signature with one in our 
possession we are perfectly satisfied that the 
" big Indian " John Hans was our pioneer 
John Harris. Of the incidents in the bor- 
der life of this early settler it is not our in- 
tention to say much at the present time. 
That he was an adventurous spirit, hardy and 
daring, his seating himself in the midst of 
the perfidious and treacherous Shawanese is 
sufficient evidence. " He was as honest a 
man as ever broke bread," was the high 
eulogium of the Rev. John Elder, who knew 
him well in the early days of his ministry. 
John Harris died at Harris' Ferry, in De- 
cember, 1748, his will being probated at 
Lancaster the latter part of that month. At 
times we are inclined to the belief that John 
Harris had been twice married. If not, his 
first and only wife was Esther Say, whom 
he married late in life. She was many 
years his junior, and concerning whom we 
have much traditionary history. It is said 
that Harris, on his frequent visits to Phila- 
delphia, met her at the house of Edward 
Shippen, the first mayor of Philadelphia, an 
intimate friend of Harris. She was also a 
relative of the family with whom she was 
residing. They were married in old Christ 
Church, but the exact year we have no 
record. Esther Say Harris survived her 
husband, and four or five years thereafter 
married William McChesney, who resided 
on the west side of the Susquehanna, in what 
is now Newberry township, York county. 
She died there in 1757, and was probably 
buried in Silvers Spring church graveyard. 
The names of John Harris' children who 
reached maturity, and probable dates of 
birth, are as follows: 

i. Elizabeth, b. 1720; m. John Findlev. 

ii. Esther, b. 1722; m. William Plunket. 
Hi. John, b. 1726; m., 1st, Elizabeth Mc- 
Clure; 2d, Mary Reed. 

iv. William- Augustus, b. 1730; m. Mar- 
garet _Simpson. 



78 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



v. Samuel, b. May 4, 1733 ; m. Elizabeth 

Bonner. 
vi. David, b. 1737 ; m. Miss Mahon. 
At his death, it may be noted, the pioneer, 
John Harris, was buried at the foot of a 
large mulberry tree on the river bank, as 
was also his first wife, and several of his 
children who died in early life. The in- 
closure in Harris Park and the fast decaying 
stump of the old tree mark the site of the 
last resting place of the first John Harris. 

Elizabeth Harris, the eldest child of 
John Harris, married John Findley or Fin- 
ley. She died in 1769 at the age of forty- 
nine vears; her husband in 1771 at the age 
of almost fifty. Little is known of him, save 
that he was the ancestor of the Findleys or 
Finleys of Western Pennsylvania. The 
children of Elizabeth and John Findley were : 
i. Esther, who married " William Pat- 
terson, Esq., of Fermanagh." Pat- 
terson had been previously married 
to Isabella Galbraith, of Derry, and 
their only son, Galbraith Patterson, 
was a noted lawyer in the early 
days of the Dauphin county courts. 
The children of Esther and Will- 
iam Patterson were : John, Isabella, 
William-Augustus, Margaret, and 
James, all of whom married and 
left issue. 

ii. John, m. Hannah ; in 1796 he 

resided in Washington county, Pa. 
Hi. Isabella, 
iv. William- Augustus, 
v. Margaret, she married William Wirtz, 
of Lancaster; and their children 
were: Margaret, Elizabeth, Esther, 
Christian, Hannah, and William. 
Otherwise concerning them we have 
little knowledge. 
vi. James. 
As previously remarked, the Findleys 
went to Western Pennsylvania, and from 
thence their descendants have scattered over 
the States of the Union beyond the Ohio, 
where they are to-day a representative people. 

Esther Harris, the second daughter of 
the elder John Harris, born about 1724, died 
in 1768. She married Dr. William Plunket, 
a native of Ireland. At that time he was 
practicing medicine in Carlisle. He was an 
officer in the Provincial service; subse- 
quently located atSunbury, where he became 
the leader in the so-called Pennamite War — 
efforts made by the government of Pennsyl- 



vania to drive off the Connecticut intruders 
upon the Wyoming lands. During the war 
of the Revolution he was suspected of dis- 
loj'alty, and was once placed under arrest. 
Sabine, in his loyalists of America, tells some 
fabulous stories of Colonel Plunket. We 
doubt if he was ever a loyalist. As in the 
recent civil conflict, however, it may be that 
as he was not for, he certainly must be 
against. All of his friends and family con- 
nections were ardent for independence — and 
he would have entered heartily into the 
struggle, but with the other officers of the 
French and Indian war, they found them- 
selves supplanted by inexperienced men as 
officers, and this rankled in their bosoms 
and they stood aloof. At this distance from 
that era it is difficult to inquire into the 
causes why old and well-tried officers were 
totally ignored in the organization of the 
Pennsylvania Line, and the chief places 
given to men who knew not the " art of war." 
Plunket and his fellow officers of the Pro- 
vincial war, at the outset of the Revolution, 
hurriedly organized the militia of the 
counties, but when the Continental Line was 
formed they were left out in the organization. 
And so the old hero quietly retired to do- 
mestic life, only annoyed by repeated charges 
of disloyalty to the cause of liberty. He died 
at Sunbury in the month of April, 1791, and 
is there buried. The children of Esther 
Harris and William Plunket were : 

i. Elizabeth, who married Samuel Ma- 
clay, brother of William Maclay, a • 
member of the Senate of Pennsyl- 
vania, speaker of that body, and 
afterwards United States senator; an 
influential man in public affairs, 
and whose descendants have oc- 
cupied and do occupy honorable 
and prominent positions in Penn- 
sylvania. 
ii. Isabella, who married William Bell, 
of Elizabethtown, N. J. She was a 
remarkable woman, was principal 
of a young ladies' seminary many 
years, and died on the 10th of 
March, 1843, at the good old age of 
eighty-three years. 
Hi. Margaret, married Isaac Richardson. 
A descendant was recently a repre- 
sentative in the United States Con- 
gress from one of the New York dis- 
tricts. 
iv. Esther-Harris, married her cousin, 
Col. Richard Baxter, of the British 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



79 



service. She died young, leaving a 

daughter, Margaret, who became 

the wife of Dr. Samuel Maclay, of 

Mifflin county, Pa. 

Dr. Plunket had besides the foregoing, five 

other children, all sons, who died in early 

life. 

John Harris, the eldest son of the first 
John Harris, and the founder of Harrisburg, 
was be rn in 1726 at Harris' Ferry. He was 
but twenty-three years old when his father 
died. At that period Harris' Ferry was an 
important place on the frontiers of Pennsyl- 
vania; and that with the management of 
his father's estate and the guardianship of 
his younger brothers required care and good 
judgment. Soon thereafter the French and 
Indian war broke out. The ferry was the 
enlre-potfov the Provincial forces stationed on 
the frontiers. The story of John Harris' 
life through these exciting times, down to 
its close, remains to be written, and we pro- 
pose at some future day to venture upon the 
subject. Much of it reads like a romance. 
He lived in perilous times — and he was 
equal to the emergency. He was an officer 
in the Provincial service, and during all that 
struggle for white supremacy against the 
treacherous Delawaresand perfidious Shawa- 
nese he was active and energetic. The Rec- 
ords of Pennsylvania contain a great deal of 
correspondence between John Harris and 
the Provincial authorities, principally relat- 
ing to the condition of the frontiers and ac- 
counts of Indian forays. During the Pax- 
tang Boys' affair of 1763 and 1764 he was 
among those censured by the government, 
but had that government taken his advice 
and removed that viperous and blood- 
stained band of Indians on the Conestoga, 
there would never have resulted the neces- 
sity in the Paxtang Boys taking summary 
justice in their own hands. When the revo- 
lutionary struggle came John Harris was 
not behind his friends and neighbors in 
taking sides with the Colonies. Not only 
his influence, but his money was given to 
the authorities to assist in the contest with 
the mother country. One of his sons, his 
eldest born, fell in front of Quebec in De- 
cember, 1775; another, David, became an 
officer in the war, and served with distinc- 
tion. Prior to the Revolution, with a far- 
seeing eye, John Harris proposed the laying 
out of a town at the ferry — but that contest 
put an end for the time to all projects. No 
sooner had peace been declared than the 



proposals for the new town were set forth. 
In the newspapers of 1784 an advertisement 
to that effect was published. The new 
county project, however, changed the origi- 
nal plans, and provided Harris' Ferry was 
chosen as the county seat the proprietor of- 
fered lands for the public use — town, county 
and State — and agreed to appoint commis- 
sioners who should value the lots of the 
town of Harrisburg, and which were to be 
sold at the sum fixed therefor. On the 4th 
of March, 1785, the General Assembly of the 
State passed the act for the erection of the 
county of Dauphin, designating Harris' 
Ferry as the county seat. Agreeable to John 
Harris' plans the lots of the town were ap- 
proved and valued, and report thereof made 
on the 14th day of April, 1785. The town 
grew rapidly, and the founder lived to see it 
prosperous. He died on the 30th of July, 
1791, and his remains were interred in the 
graveyard of old Paxtang church. A marble 
slab bearing the following inscription marks 
the spot: 

In memory of \ John Harris | Who died on 
the 30th Day of July \ 1791 \ In the 65th year 
of his age \ and gave name | To the Toiun of 
Harrisburgh. \ The remains of | Elizabeth his 
first | and Mary his second wife \ lie in- 
terred with him \ Under this Stone. 

John Harris was in reality one of the 
" men of mark " in the early history of Penn- 
sylvania. During the French and Indian 
war his services were invaluable, and so 
down to the close of his active life he was 
the same unflinching patriot — a generous 
hearted and enterprising citizen. He had 
strong faith in the advantageous position of 
the town which he had laid oat, and some 
years before his death, in his efforts to dis- 
suade Matthias Hollenbach, of Hanover 
township, who was then removing to Wilkes- 
Barre, and who became quite prominent in 
the history of that locality, said this place 
[Harrisburg] would eventually become the 
center of business in interior Pennsyvania 
and in time be selected as the seat of govern- 
ment of the State. He was far-seeing. At 
his death he owned about 900 acres of land, 
including most of what is now embraced in 
the city of Harrisburg. Also 200 acres on 
the Cumberland side of the river, including 
the Ferry, as also a large tract of land at the 
mouth of the Yellow Breeches, in Newberry 
township, York county, with 600 acres at 
the mouth of Conedoguinet creek, where an 
old Shawanese town once had been. 



80 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



John Harris, the founder, was twice mar- 
ried. In the year 1749, by the Rev. John 
Elder, to Elizabeth McClure, born 1729 in 
Paxtang, and died January 20, 1764, at 
Harris' Ferry. The following incidents, 
credited to the wife of the first John Harris, 
refer to this noted woman. "The log house 
of Mr. Harris, situated on the river bank, 
was surrounded by a stockade for security 
against the Indians. An English officer was 
one night at the house, when by accident the 
gate of the stockade was left unfastened. 
The officer, clothed in his regimentals, was 
seated with Mr. Harris and his wife at the 
table. An Indian entered the gate of the 
stockade and thrust his rifle through one of 
the port-holes of the house, and it is sup- 
posed pointed it at the officer. The night 
being damp, the gun simply flashed. In- 
stantly Mrs. Harris blew out the candle to 
prevent the Indian aiming a second time, 
and he retreated." On another occasion a 
servant girl was sent upstairs for some pur- 
pose, and she took with her a piece of lighted 
candle, without a candlestick. The girl 
soon came down without the candle, and on 
Mrs. H. asking what she had done with it, 
she said she had stuck it into a barrel of 
flaxseed. This, however, happened to be a 
barrel of powder. Mrs. Harris instantly 
rose, and without saying a word, for fear of 
alarming the girl, went upstairs, and advanc- 
ing to the barrel, cautiously placed her 
hands under the candle and lifted it out, and 
then coolby reproved the girl for her careless- 
ness. These occurrences prove her to have 
been well fitted for the life of a pioneer. 

The children of John Harris and his wife 
Elizabeth McClure were : 

i. Mary, b. April 13, 1750 ; m. William 

Maclay. 
ii. John, b. August 20, 1751. He is the 
son of whom his father wrote on 
the 4th of July, 1775, after speaking 
of his son David, who was an ap- 
plicant for a commission in the 
patriot army : " I shall let my 
other son Johnny go cheerful^ in 
the service, anywhere in America." 
He joined at this time Capt. Mat- 
thew Smith's company, and fell 
mortally wounded in front of Que- 
bec, on the 31st of December, 1775. 
Hi. David, b. February 24, 1754, at 
Harris' Feny. He received a good 
English and classical education 
under the care of the celebrated 



Dr. Alison. At the time of the 
breaking out of the war for Inde- 
pendence he was in Baltimore. 
He accepted a commission in the 
Pennsylvania Line and was ap- 
pointed paymaster of Col. William 
Thompson's battalion of riflemen. 
He served in various positions 
until the close of the Revolution, 
when he returned to Baltimore 
where he married. After the death 
of his father, being one of the ex- 
ecutors of the estate, he came to 
Harrisburg, and was appointed by 
his old friend and companion in 
arms, Governor Mifflin, one of the 
associate judges of Dauphin county, 
August 17, 1791. This position he 
resigned on the 20th of February, 
1792, to accept an appointment in 
the Bank of the United States. 
Upon the establishment of the office 
Of discount and deposit, in Balti- 
more, he accepted the cashiership 
thereof. Major Harris died in that 
city on the 16th of November, 1809, 
at the age of fifty-five years. His 
wife was Sarah Crocket, of Baltimore, 
and their children were : John, who 
died in Europe, and Mary Crochet, 
who married Joseph Sterritt. 
iv. William, b. January 23, 1756 ; d. July 

3, 1764. 
v. Elizabeth, b. November 22, 1759 ; 
d. s. p. 
John Harris married, secondly, in Novem- 
ber, 1764, by Rev. John Roan, Mary Read, 
daughter of Adam and Mary Read, of Han- 
over, b. 1730; d. November 1, 1787, at Har- 
risburg, and buried in old Paxtang church 
graveyard. Their children were : 

vi. Adam, b. November 7, 1765 ; d. s. p. 
vii. James (1st), b. February 15, 1767 ; 

d. s. p. 
viii. Robert, b. September 5, 1768 ; m. 
Elizabeth Ewing. 
ix. Mary, b. October 1, 1770 ; m. John 

Andre Hanna. 
x. Jean, b. March 18, 1772 ; d. s. p. 
xi. Joseph, b. October 23, 1774 ; d. s. p. 
xii. William, b. September 1, 1776 ; d. 

August 17, 1777. 
xiii. Read, b. October 5, 1778 ; d. s. p. 
xiv. Elizabeth, b. October, 1780; d.-s. p. 
xv. James (2d), b. 1782 ; d. May 17, 1806; 
unm.; buried in Paxtang church 
graveyard. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



81 



William Augustus I [arris, son of John 
Harris, the elder, born about the year 1730, 
at Harris' Ferry ; d. in 1760, near Elizabeth- 
town, now Lancaster county. He married, 
October 4, 1752, Margaret Simpson, daughter 
of Samuel Simpson, of Paxtang. She sur- 
vived her husband only a year or two. They 
left children : 

i. John, d. s. p. 

ii. Simpson, was a soldier of the Revolu- 
tion, and died in the service at 
Ashley Hill. 

Samuel Harris, son of the first John 
Harris, b. May 4, 1733, at Harris' Ferry. At 
the beginning of the Revolution, he was a 
settler in Northumberland county, and took 
an active part in affairs there, as also in the 
so-called " Pennamite War." He afterwards 
removed to near Cayuga Lake, New York, 
where he died on the 19th of October, 1825. 
At West Cayuga, or Bridgeport, on the shore 
of the Cayuga Lake, in the town of Seneca 
Falls, is a monument erected to Samuel 
Harris. From it we take the following in- 
scription, although the date of his birth is 
seven years out of the way : 

Samuel Harris | Born at Harrisburg, Penn., 
May 4> 174-0 | An active participant in the 
Stirring scenes of the old French War \ was 
present at surprise and defeat \ of Braddock 
near Fort Du Quesne \ He was the decided 
friend of his \ Country and her Cause, in the 
War | of the Revolution, during ivhich he was 
| appointed Captain of Cavalry \ Emigrated 
to and settled on the \ bank of the Cayuga Lake 
in the year 1795 \ Where he died Aug. 19, 1825 
| Aged 85 yrs 3 months 15 days. 

On the same monument is this inscrip- 
tion : 

Elizabeth Harris wife of Samuel Harris | 
born at Philadelphia March 17, 1740 \ Died 
Dec. 25, 1828 \ Aged 88 yrs 9 mo. 8 da. | 
Blessed are the merciful for they shall ob- \ tain 
mercy. 

Samuel Harris married, in 1758, Eliza- 
beth Bonner, of Philadelphia. Their chil- 
dren, all born at Harris' Feny, were: 

i. John, b. September 26, 1760 ; m. Mary 

Richardson. 
ii. William, b. October 3, 1762; m. Miss 

Mead, and left issue. 
Hi. Ann, b. 1764 ; d. s. p. 
iv. David, b. April 22, 1771; m. Ann 

; and theiri'children were 

Alfred,[Samuel, and Elizabeth. 



David Harris, the youngest son of the 
first John Harris, born about 1737, received 
a good education, settled at Sunbury, and 
was prothonotary of Northumberland county 
in 1777 and 1778. He died while on a voy- 
age to Europe. He married a Miss Mahon, 
of Baltimore, and they had one child, Esther, 
concerning whom we have not been able to 
secure information. 

Mary Harris, the daughter of the second 
John Harris, and his wife, Elizabeth McClure, 
was born April 13, 1750, at Harris' Ferry ; 
d. April 20, 1809, at Harrisburg, and is 
buried in Paxtang church graveyard. She 
married, April 16, 1769, William Maclay. 
He was the son of Charles Maclay and Elea- 
nor Query, and was born July 20, 1737, in 
New Garden township, Chester county, Pa. 
In 1742 his parents removed to Hopewell 
township, Lancaster county, now Lurgan 
township, Franklin county, where he grew 
up to man's estate. He was at Rev. John 
Blair's classical school, in Chester county, 
when the French and Indian war broke out, 
and desiring to enter the Provincial service, 
Mr. Blair recommended him as a "judicious 
young man and a scholar." He was ap- 
pointed an ensign in the Pennsylvania bat- 
talion, subsequently promoted to lieutenant, 
and served under Forbes and Bouquet. He 
afterwards studied law and was admitted to 
the York county bar, April 28, 1760. He 
was appointed one of the deputy surveyors 
of the Province, and until the Revolution 
was busily engaged as the assistant of Sur- 
veyor General Lukens' on the frontiers. By 
direction of the Proprietaries he laid out the 
town of Sunbury, where he erected a stone 
house and resided until the close of the war. 
During that struggle he marched with the 
Northumberland county associators, partici- 
pating in the battles of Trenton and Prince- 
ton. He was afterwards appointed assistant 
commissary of purchases. In 1781 he was 
elected to the Assembly, and filled many 
offices in the county and State, while in 1789 
was chosen to the United States Senate, tak- 
ing his seat there as the first senator from 
Pennsylvania. A diary of the proceedings 
of these two years was kept by Mr. Maclay, 
the original of which was in the possession of 
his grandson, William Maclay Lyon. Upon 
leaving the Senate he took up his permanent 
residence in Harrisburg, where he built the 
stone house yet standing at the corner of 
Front and South streets. He represented the 



82 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



county of Dauphin in the Pennsylvania 
House of Representatives in 1795 and 1803, 
and was a Presidential elector in 1796, and 
from 1801 to 1803 one of the associate judges 
of the county. He died at Harrisburg on 
the 15th of April, 1804. In the old Paxtang 
churchyard is a flat marble stone with this 
inscription : 

Sacred | to the memory of \ William Maclay, 
Esq., | late of Harrisburgh, \ who departed this 
life April 16, 1804, | Aged 68 years. \ In the 
death of this valuable member of \ Society his 
Country has lost an enlightened | citizen and 
his family their only support. \ He held some of 
the most honourable offices | in Pennsylvania 
and the United States \ and discharged their 
duties with firmness | and integrity. \ To an en- 
larged and superior mind he added, \ the strictest 
morality and served his God \ by improving 
himself in virtue and knowledge. \ He has gone 
to receive a glorious reward \ for a life spent in 
honour and unsullied by crime. \ His afflicted 
wife and children raise this stone \ over his 
grave and have no consolation but | in the re- 
membrance of his virtues. 

O'er thy loved tomb shall angels bend, \ And 
true affection tribute pay, | To mourn the Father, 
Husband, Friend, | Untimely torn by Death 
away. | Tho' power and honour could not save \ 
Thy mortal part from Death's abode, \ Th' 
ethereal spirit bursts the grave \ and seeks the 
bosom of its God. 

" Words of truth for once told on a tomb- 
stone," said William Darby, the geographer, 
who knew Mr. Maclay well. For further 
notes concerning him see " History of Dau- 
phin County." The children of Mary (Mc- 
Clure) Harris and William Maclay were 
(surname Maclay): 

i. John-Harris, b. Feb. 5, 1770 ; d. s. p. 
ii. Elizabeth, b. Feb. 16, 1772 ; d. April 
19, 1794. In Paxtang church burial 
ground is a large marble slab with 
this inscription : 

Sacred | to \ the Memory of \ Eliza Maclay. 
A lingering distemper \ bornewithresignation 
put a period to her life \ on the 19th of April, 
1794. I in the 23d year of her age. \ The duties \ 
annexed to her station \ were dischargad with- 
out a I blot. I Her iveeping Parents \ haveplaced 
over her this stone \ The monument \ Of her vir- 
tues and of I their affection. 

Hi. Eleanor, b. January 17, 1774 ; m. Will- 
iam Wallace. 
iv. Mary, b. March 19, 1776; m. Samuel 
Awl. 



v. Esther, b. September 19, 1778 ; m. Dr. 
Henry Hall. 

vi. Sarah, b. January 5, 1781 ; m. John 
Irwin. 

vii. Jean, b. March 19, 1783 ; m. John 

Lyon. 
viii. William, b. 1784; d. 1785. 

ix. William (2d), b. May 5, 1787 ; d. Mon- 
day, March 22, 1812, at Harrisburg, 
unm. 

Robert Harris, son of the second John 
Harris, and his wife Mary Read, was born 
September 5, 1768, at Harris' Ferry. He re- 
ceived a good education, and was brought up 
as a farmer, residing during the early por- 
tion of his life in the old log house which 
stood where the Harris Park school building 
is erected. He filled various positions of 
honor, and during the war of 1812-14 served 
as paymaster of the Penn'a troops. He was 
elected to Congress two terms, 1823 to 1827. 
Mr. Harris was one of the most active and 
energetic men of his day. Possessed of great 
public spirit, he aided in the establishment 
of various enterprises, including the bridge 
over the Susquehanna, Harrisburg Bank and 
Harrisburg and Middletown turnpike. When 
the Assembly of the State decided to remove 
the seat of government to Harrisburg he was 
selected as one of the commissioners for fix- 
ing the location of the Capitol buildings be- 
fore removal. Many of our old citizens re- 
member well the last prominent act in his 
long life, the address of welcome made by 
him to President Taylor. Mr. Harris died 
at Harrisburg on the 3d of September, 1851, 
at almost the age of eighty-three years. He 
married in Philadelphia, May 12, 1791, Eliza- 
beth Ewing, daughter of Rev. John Ewing, 
D. D., provost of the University of Pennsyl- 
vania. She died at Harrisburg on the 27th 
of April, 1835, in the 63d year of her age. 
The children of Robert and Elizabeth Ewing 
Harris were: 

i. John, b. March 9, 1792 ; died June 22, 

1846; unmarried. 
ii. Hannah, b. December 21, 1793 ; d. s. p. 
Hi. David, b. March 27, 1796, at Harris- 
burg. He received his education in 
the schools of the town and at the 
academy there. At the age of eigh- 
teen he went to Philadelphia, where 
he was engaged in mercantile pur- 
suits several j'ears, when he re- 
turned to his native town and es- 
tablished himself in the general 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



83 



transportation business in connec- 
tion with the canal, and subse- 
quently in merchandizing. For 
many years he was clerk of the 
borough and city councils, was a jus- 
tice of the peace under the borough 
charter, and one of the first alder- 
men elected under the cit}' charter. 
In 1814 Mr. Harris marched to Bal- 
timore — one of the youngest in that 
band of brave defenders — with the 
" Harrisburg volunteers," and was 
among the last of its survivors. 
Upon his retirement from councils 
he lived in quiet retirement, his age 
rendering it impossible for him to 
participate in any active business. 
He was a man of strict integrity, 
and lived an honorable and correct 
life, doing what he had to do faith- 
fully, beloved and respected by his 
friends and neighbors. He died at 
Harrisburg on the 14th of March, 
1880. Mr. Harris married Eliza- 
beth Latimer, who survived to a 
ripe old age. Their children were 
Mary, Philip-Small, Henry -Latimer, 
Louisa, m. Charles H. Wilson, and 
Sallie- Latimer. Of these Mary is de- 
ceased ; Philip-S. resides at St. Paul, 
Minn.; Mrs. Wilson, a widow, at 
Philadelphia, and the others at Har- 
risburg. 
iv. George-Washington, b. June 23, 1798, 
at Harrisburg, where he died on 
the 13th of August, 1882. He re- 
ceived a preliminary education at 
the old Harrisburg academy and 
select schools of the town. Subse- 
quently he went to Dickinson, Jeff- 
erson and the University of Penn- 
sylvania, graduating at the latter 
institution. He studied law and 
was admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar at the December term, 
1820. He remained at Harrisburg 
several years, during a portion of 
which period he served as deputy 
attorney general for the county of 
Dauphin. He afterwards removed 
to Philadelphia and entered into 
law partnership with Calvin Blythe, 
at one time judge of this district. 
He returned, however, in a short 
time to Harrisburg, and resumed 
his place at the Dauphin county 
bar, and was appointed reporter of 



the Supreme Court of Pennsylva- 
nia, publishing a series of volumes 
of reports. For a number of years 
he filled the position of secretary to 
the Library Committee of the Uni- 
ted States Senate. Until the last 
day of his long life he was very ac- 
tive — physically and mentally. In 
his address, appearance and man- 
ners, he belonged to the old school. 
He was a great reader, a man of 
good information and of fine con- 
versational powers. He was ex- 
emplary and upright in his inter- 
course with his fellow-citizens, and 
was highly respected by all. Mr. 
Harris married Elizabeth Mary 
Hall, daughter of Dr. Henry Hall, 
whose wife was Hester Maclay, 
daughter of Senator William Ma- 
clay. She died during the year 
1884. Their children were Eliza- 
beth- E.., m. J. Wallace Kerr ; Catha- 
rine-Hall, m. William Morris ; 
Robert, William-H, and Julia-Todd. 
Mrs. Kerr, a widow, resides at Har- 
risburg, as does Julia T. Robert 
and William H. were both physi- 
cians, and died in the prime of life. 
Mrs. Morris resides in Delaware. 
v. Thomas-Jefferson, b. October 17, 1800. 
He received a good education, and 
was appointed a midshipman in 
the U. S. Navy. He passed a few 
years in the service, but having lit- 
tle inclination for a man-of-war life, 
he resigned and returned to Har- 
risburg, where he lived in quiet re- 
tirement until the close of his life, 
which terminated on the 10th of 
August, 1878. He was genial and 
generous, affable and entertaining, 
and a student his whole life long. 
Mr. Harris married, in 1859, Eliza 
Stine, of Harrisburg, but she died 
within a year thereafter. 
vi. Robert (1st), b. January 29, 1804; d. 
March 8, 1804. 

vii. Robert (2d), b. March 21, 1808. He was 
a physician and practiced his pro- 
fession at Harrisburg a number of 
years. He died there on the 19th 
of December, 1863, unmarried. 

viii. William-Augustus, b. August 21, 1810. 
He was an Episcopalian minister, 
resided at Washington, D. O, and 
the last survivor of the children of 



84 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Robert Harris. He married Cath- 
arine Butcher, and their children 
were James- Otey, Catharine, Will- 
iam, and Robert. 

Mary Harris, daughter of John Harris 
and his wife Mary Read, was born October 1, 
1770, at Harris' Ferry. She was an active 
and energetic woman, and closed a life of 
four score years on the 20th of August, 1851. 
She married John Andre Hanna, a native 
of Flemington, N. J., where he was born 
about 1760. He was the son of Rev. John 
Hanna and his wife Mary McOrea. He re- 
ceived a good education under the direction 
of his father, and was partly educated at the 
College of New Jersey. It is probable that 
he came to Pennsylvania as a tutor, after- 
wards studying law with Stephen Chambers, 
of Lancaster, a noted lawyer of his day, and 
was admitted to the bar of that county in 
1784. Upon the formation of the county of 
Dauphin he located at Harrisburg, where his 
marriage to a daughter of the founder of the 
new town gave him a prestige and promi- 
nence he would perchance not otherwise 
have had. With this influence of family, 
and his great natural abilities, he soon be- 
came the leader at the bar. Probably an ac- 
tive participant in the war of the Revolu- 
tion, he had a decided taste for military af- 
fairs. He commanded one of the first com- 
panies raised in Harrisburg, and during 
the so-called Whiskey Insurrection of 1794 
was in command of the Second brigade of 
the Pennsylvania forces. The same year he 
was elected to. Congress, and up to the time 
of his death served in that illustrious body, 
He died, somewhat suddenly, on the 18th of 
July, 1805, and his remains repose in the 
cemetery at Harrisburg. General Hanna 
was a man of rich promise, was a leader of 
the anti-federal party, and the colleague of 
Gallatin, Sinilie and other Pennsylvanians, 
then quite prominent in the political affairs 
of the Nation. He was a gentleman in man- 
ners and deportment and eminent in his life 
work. The children of General Hanna and 
his wife Mary Harris were : 
i. Esther-Harris, d. s. p. 
ii. Eleanor, d. s. p. 

Hi. Sarah-Eaton ; she married in 1820 
Richard Templin Jacobs, who died 
November 25, 1842. He was a 
prominent merchant of Harrisburg. 
Their children were Samuel, Hen- 
rietta, James, George- W., and Eliza. 



The latter was twice married, first 
to A. K. Cornyn, a lawyer, and sec- 
ondly John J. Clyde, of Harrris- 
burg. 

iv. Henrietta, d. 1840 ; unm. 
v. Caroline-Elizabeth, b. 1795 ; d. 1880 at 
Harrisburg. She married, in 1813, 
Joseph Briggs, of Silvers Spring, 
and they had John-Hanna, m. Julia 
Ann Todd, and Mary, m. Hon. John 
J. Pearson. 

vi. Frances-Harris, m. John Carson Mc- 
Allister, and left issue. 
vii. Juliana- C, m. John Fisher. 
viii. Mary-Read, m. Hon. John Tod. He 
was the son of David Tod and Rachel 
Kent, and born in Suflield, Hart- 
ford county, Conn , in November, 
1779. His father was a Scotchman 
by birth and a man of an original 
turn of mind, possessing much 
shrewdness, and a dry kind of wit, 
many of his sayings being familiarly 
repeated years after his decease. His 
mother was a native of the town of 
Suffield. Young Tod received his 
preliminary education at the public 
schools of the village, but his class- 
ical education was pursued under 
the direction of the Rev. Mr. Gray, 
pastor of the Presbyterian church 
of that town. His rapid progress 
in his studies enabled him on ex- 
amination to enter the junior class 
at Yale College, where he graduated 
two years afterwards with great 
credit and honor to himself. After 
graduating- he entered the office of 
his brother, George Tod, then a 
practicing lawyer in New Haven, 
and it is said was also a short time 
in the office of Gideon Granger, 
Postmaster General under President 
Adams. He was admitted to the 
bar of Hartford in 1800. Shortly 
after he went to Virginia, where he 
filled the position of tutor in a 
family in one of the southern coun- 
ties of that State. In 1802 he lo- 
cated at Bedford, Pa., where he did 
some clerical labor in theprothono- 
tary's office, and the same year ad- 
mitted to the bar there. His prac- 
tice rapidly increased, and such was 
his standing and popularity in the 
county that he was elected to the 
House of Representatives of the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



85 



Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 
1808, serving in that branch until 
1813 — the last two sessions being 
speaker of that body. In 1813 he 
was elected member of the State 
Senate, of which he served as pre- 
siding officer from 1814 to 1816. 
He was re-elected in 1816, but re- 
signed the office December 20, 1816. 
In 1820 Mr. Tod was elected a mem- 
ber of Congress, and again in 1822. 
The tariff question was the leading 
measure of Congress during the 
session of 1823-4. His speeches on 
the subject — particularly his open- 
ing speech, delivered on the 10th of 
February, 1824, and that with 
which he closed the debate on the 
8th of April — are remarkable ; the 
first for the data, facts, statistics and 
other important information it con- 
veys — the second for its powerful 
and persuasive reasoning, fervid 
eloquence, wit and satire, all ex- 
pressed in chaste and elegant lan- 
guage. Few subjects have elicited 
more masterly and brilliant dis- 
plays from American statesmen. 
On the 8th of June, 1824, he was 
appointed president judge of the 
Fifteenth judicial district, and 
thereupon resigned his seat in Con- 
gress. In May, 1827, he was ap- 
pointed by Governor Shulze a jus- 
tice of the Supreme Court of Penn- 
sylvania. He had been engaged 
with two other judges in holding a 
court at Lancaster, and becoming 
ill, hastened to his home at Bed- 
ford, where, after a brief illness, on 
the 27th of March, 1830, in the 
fifty-first year of his age. he breathed 
his last. The character of Judge 
Tod was that of a plain, practical 
Republican — a downright honest 
man. Without the least ostenta- 
tion or disguise he remarkably ex- 
emplified, in a Spartan simplicity 
of manners, the truth of his own 
sentiments — that there may be a 
social equality in the intercourse of 
men on all proper occasions without 
at all interfering with the difference 
conferred by intellect and educa- 
tion. He was too humble to think 
himself wiser than others, and too 
honest to account himself better. 



The children of Mary Read Hanna 
and John Tod were Julia-Ann, m. 
John H. Briggs ; Rachel, m. Samuel 
A. Gilmore, of Butler; Isabella, m. 
William M. Kerr, and Henrietta. 
Mrs. Briggs and Mrs. Kerr, both 
widows, reside at Harrisburg. 



The Allisons of Dekry. 

I. John Allison, a native of Londonderry, 
Ireland, emigrated with his family to Amer- 
ica as early as 1725, and located on what 
were termed the " Barrens of Derry, then 
Chester, afterwards Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county, Pa. He took up two hundred acres 
of land, which were warranted to him 15th 
of April, 1734. He died in 1747, leaving a 
wife Janet, and among other children, the 
following : 

i. Robert, d. March, 1766, unm.; by his 
will he bequeathed " £100 to the 
Trustees of the Philadelphia Hos- 
pital," "£100 to the Grammar 
School at Newark, ten miles from 
New Castle," and the balance of 
his estate to his brothers and sisters. 
ii. William, d. August, 1739; m. Grizzle 
Wray, and had Margaret, Patrick, 
and Robert, 
in. Henry, who had James. 

2. iv. John, m. Ann . 

3. v. James, m. Rebecca . 

vi. Jean, m. Smith. 



vii. Margaret, m. 



White. 



II. John Allison (John), d. May, 1767, 
in Donegal, leaving a wife Ann (who subse- 
quently married John Stewart), and had 
children as follows : 

i. Patrick. 

ii. Jean, m. George Clark, and had Mary. 
Hi. Rose, m. James Crawford, and had 

John, 
iv. Margaret, 
v. John. 

vi. James, b. 1750. 
vii. Ann, b. 1753. 
viii. William, b. 1755. 
ix. Robert, b. 1757. 

III. James Allison (John), d. November, 
1762, in Donegal, leaving a wife Rebecca, 
who died in September, 1764, and the fol- 
lowing issue : 

i. James, m. a daughter of Gordon 
Howard, of Donegal. 



86 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



ii. Anna, m. 



Defrance, and had 



James and John, who were, in 1776, 
over fourteen years of age. 
Hi. Jean, m. William Watt, and removed 
to North Carolina. 

iv. Margaret, m. Bowman, and 

removed to North Carolina. 
v. Samh. 

vi. Rebecca, m. Hugh Caldwell, and had 
Jane. 



The Balsbaugh Family. 

Among the earliest of the German settlers 
on Spring creek, in what is now Derry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, was George Bals- 
baugh. a native of Fahrenbach, in the Pfaltz, 
Germany, where he was born in 1706. He 
married Eva Minich, born in the same 
neighborhood, in 1716. With their little 
family they came to America in the year 
1743, and located among their old neighbors 
in the Fatherland, near Derry church, on the 
farm now owned by the late venerable Wen- 
del Henry. Mr. Balsbaugh subsequently 
removed to Hanover township, six miles 
further north, and purchased a tract of land 
of two hundred acres — most of it hilly and 
sterile — which has ever since been known 
as the " Balsbaugh Place." Mr. Balsbaugh 
died there in 1775, his wife ten years later. 
They had a large family, and their descend- 
ants were quite numerous in Dauphin and 
Lebanon counties sixty } T ears ago, but 
like their Scotch-Irish neighbors, they have 
gone out from the old homestead and sought 
new locations south and west. The record 
we have been able to make of them is mea- 
ger, it is true, and that mainly of one branch 
of the family. George Balsbaugh and Eva 
his wife had among others the following 
children : 

i. George, b. 1736 ; d. March 10, 1802. 
ii. Peter, b. June 27, 1738 ; d. June 26, 
1796 ; m. Mary , b. Decem- 
ber 12, 1742 ; d. June 19, 1798. 
Hi. John,b. 1740; d. March 24, 3 802. 
iv. Catharine, b. 1743 ; d. at sea. 
v. Elizabeth, b. 1745. 
vi. Eva, b. 1749. 
vii. Gertrude, b. 1752. 

viii. Valentine, b. February 14, 1755 ; m. 
Elizabeth Miller. 

Valentine Balsbaugh (George) was 
born near old Derry church, February 15, 



1755. He was, however, brought up on the 
old Balsbaugh Place in Hanover, to which 
his parents removed about 1760. Although 
a practical farmer, he was a minister of the 
German Baptist Church, and emphatically 
a self-educated man. His knowledge of the 
Holy Scriptures was wonderful, and his 
grasp of revealed truths deep, spiritual and 
far-reaching. He was what is termed a 
" weeping " minister of the gospel, and was 
never known to preach without shedding 
tears and causing others to weep. To the 
close of his long and influential life, he never 
used glasses. He died suddenly of apoplexy 
at the homestead on the 26th of November, 
1851, in the 97th year of his age. Mr. Bals- 
baugh married August 3, 1777, Elizabeth 
Miller, daughter of the saintly George Mil- 
ler, the first bishop of the German Baptist 
Church in Dauphin county. She was born 
May 2, 1753, and died in September, 1821. 
They had issue as follows : 

i. George, b. May 5, 1778; was a black- 
smith by trade, and was noted 
among his Scotch-Irish Presbyte- 
rian neighbors as much for his 
mental strength as for his leonine 
physique ; he was well read, and 
with his strong reasoning powers 
was the leader in debate — a verita- 
ble Elihu Burritt in knowledge. 
He married late in life and died at 
three score. 
ii. Christian, b. 1779 ; d. s. p. 
Hi. Daniel, b. 1781 ; d. s. p. 
iv. Henry, b. February 8, 1783 ; was a 
farmer ; represented the county 
of Dauphin in the Legislature of 
1843 ; died September 1, 1848. He 
married Hannah, daughter of Jacob 
Smith who died at Forreston, 111., 
at the age of eighty-five. Dr. George 
Balsbaugh, of Forreston, 111., is a 



son. 



v. Catharine, b. May 26, 1785 ; a woman 
of fine personal appearance and 
noble, self-sacrificing disposition ; 
she accomplished great good in her 
long life. She married Rev. Dan- 
iel Reich ard, of Ringgold Manor, 
Md., a bishop of the German Bap- 
tist Church. They had a large 
family most of whom were promi- 
nent in the church. The Rev. 
Reichard was a profound theolo- 
gian, and the professors of St. 
James College said of him, " he is 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



87 



as tough as a fiddle string and 
genial as tough." He was born 
May 1, 1.760; died January 28, 
1856. Mrs. Reichard died Decem- 
ber 22, 1870. They had twelve 
children. 

vi. Elizabeth, b. February 14, 1787 ; m. 
the Rev. Lawrence Etter, " an elo- 
quent man and mighty in the 
scriptures," many years a minister 
in the German Baptist Church. 
He died November 9, 1853, in his 
sixty -seventh year. Their son John 
is now a bishop in that church. 
Mrs. Etter died at the early age of 
thirty-four. 

vii. John, b. November 4, 1788 ; d. in his 
ninety-first year, near Highspire; 
married a Miss Ziegler, sister of a 
prominent minister of the church 
in Lancaster county. Their son, 
John, Jr., who died recently, repre- 
sented Juniata county in the Leg- 
islature. 
viii. Mary, b. October 7, 1790; d. February 
27, 1882 ; married William Gibson, 
of York county, near Dallastown, 
Pa., where they resided all their 
married life. 

ix. Peter, b. June 4, 1793; d. November 
21, 1871, at the old homestead ; was 
for years a director of the poor ; in 
the early days of common schools 
he was one of the most strenuous 
advocates of that noble plan of ed- 
ucation, and all through his long 
life he took the deepest interest 
therein. A plain, practical farmer, 
he was as influential as generous. 
He married Elizabeth Longenecker, 
who deceased on New Year's Day, 
1874. Their children were Valen- 
tine, b. March 19, 1827 ; m. Mary, 
daughter of the Rev. Jacob Hol- 
linger ; Abraham, b. October 12, 
1819; m. Susan Seltzer ; Benjamin, 
b. November 14, 1821 ; m. Mary, 
daughter of Rev. Miskey, of Berks 
county ; Daniel, b. February 15, 
1825, founder and first principal of 
Lebanon Valley College, d. in 1860 ; 
m. Laura, daughter of Andrew 
Henry, of Palmyra ; Maria, b. Sep- 
tember 18, 1828; m. John M. Zort- 
man, a farmer near Palmyra; 
Christian- Hervey, b. April 16, 1831, 
now of Union Deposit, Dauphin 



county ; Lizzie, b. July 3, 1834 ; d. 
at the age of twenty-eight; David, 
b. November 23, 1836, died at six- 
teen, and Samuel, b. July 30, 1839 ; 
m. Sarah, daughter of Rev. Mr. 
Keefer, of Dauphin county. 
x. Christina, b. December 10, 1795; d. 
May 23, 1863 ; married Michael 
Friese. Their son Michael was a 
leading homeopathic physician who 
died in Harrisburg in 1880. An- 
other son, Valentine, a graduate of 
Dickinson College, died in 1875 at 
Fort Wingate, New Mexico. 
xi. Anna, b. July 26, 1798 ; d. December 
23, 1868 ; married Peter Gingrich, 
a substantial farmer. Their son 
Aaron is a prominent physician in 
Virginia. 



The Baums of Derry. 

I. Adam Baum, a native of the Palatinate* 
emigrated to America about 1760, and set- 
tled in Derry township, Lancaster now Dau- 
phin county, Pa., where he died in Decem- 
ber, 1785; m. Veronica ; both are 

buried in the family graveyard, on the Horse- 
shoe turnpike, two miles east of Hummels- 
town. They had issue, among others : 

2. i. Michael, b. 1757 ; m. Margaret Eber- 

sole. 

3. ii. Daniel, b. January 30. 1759 ; m. Catha- 

rine Fishburn. 
Hi. John, b. 1761 ; d. and left a son John. 

II. Michael Baum (Adam), b. 1757, in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa.; d. in 
1796 ; m. Margaret Ebersole ; his widow sub- 
sequently married John Miller. They had 
issue : 

4. i. Daniel, b. April 9, 1783; m. Mary 

Hummel. 

5. ii. Abraham, b. 1785; m. Elizabeth Esh- 

leman. 
Hi. John, b. 1787; d. April, 1839; m. 

Nancy . 

iv. Ann, b. 1789. 

v. Freny, b. 1791 ; in. Isaac Snavely. 
vi. Mary, b. 1793; m. Felix Burkholder; 

removed to Ohio. 

III. Daniel Baum (Adam), b. January 30, 
1759; d. December 30, 1839; was an ingen- 
ious mechanic, learned gunsmithing with his 
father, and during the war of the Revolution 
was noted for the rifles which he manufac- 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



tured for the patriot army. He m. Catharine 
Fishburn. They had issue : 

6. i. Michael, m. Nancy Sheller. 
ii. Barbara, m. Thomas Fox. 

7. Hi. John, b. March 9,1794; m. Rebecca 

Zimmerman. ' 

IV. Daniel Baum (Michael, Adam), b- 
April 7, 1783; d. December 4, 1857 ; m. Mary 
Hummel, b. March 13,1/89; d. November 
23, 1862 ; dau. of David Hummel and Mary 
Toot. They had issue : 

i. Mary-Ann, m. Samuel Murray. 
ii. Lena. 

Hi. Sarah, d. unm. 
iv. Susan, m. Levi Jones. 
v. Catharine, m. Edward Magee, of New- 
ark, N. J. 
vi. Adam-Hummel. 

vii. Caroline, m. John Yordy, of Lebanon. 
viii. David-Hummel, 
ix. Amanda, d. s. p. 

V. Abraham Baum (Micbael, Adam), m. 
Elizabeth Eshleman. They had issue: 

i. Mary, m., first, Abraham Fackler; sec- 
ondly, John Gerhart. 
ii. John, m. Elizabeth Metz. 
Hi. Michael, m. a dau. of Philip Michael, 

of Dauphin county. 
iv. Catharine, in. Benjamin Miller. 
v. Susan. 

vi. Isaac, m. Barbara Bear. 
vii. Elizabeth, m. John Baum. 
viii. Abraham. 

VI. Michael Baum (Daniel, Adam), d. 
March, 1831 ; m. Nancy Sheller. They had 
issue : 

i. John, d. s. p. 
ii. Daniel, m. and removed to the West. 

VII. John Baum (Daniel, Adam), b. March 
9, 1794 ; d. October 8, 1826 ; m. Rebecca Zim- 
merman. They had issue : 

i. Catharine, m. John Abel. 
ii. Maria, m. Jacob Hamaker. 
Hi. Eliza, d. s. p. 
iv. Margaret, d. s. p. 

v. Mary, m. Gill, of Lebanon 

county. 
vi. Louisa, m. Franklin Scott. 



Brubaker and Meetch. 

I. John Brubaker, a native of Switzer- 
land, emigrated to America about the year 
1712, or perchance earlier, as it is stated he 



built the first grist mill in what was after- 
wards Lancaster county, Pa. He settled 
near the present town of Lancaster. He had 
a family of nine sons, of whom we have the 
following : 

i. John, m., 1st, Maria Newcomer; 2d, 

a daughter of Michael Tanner, and 

had issue. 

2. ii. Daniel, m. and left issue. 
Hi. Peter. 

iv. Abraham, m. and left issue. 

3. v. David, 
vi. Christian. 

vii. Henry, 
viii. Jacob. 

II. Daniel Brubaker (John), b. about 
1715, in Lancaster count} 7 , Pa,; m. a daugh- 
ter of Michael Tanner. They had issue, 
among others (surname Brubaker) : 

i. Joseph, b. 1741 ; m. Elizabeth Dow- 
ner. 

III. Abraham Brubaker (John), resided 
in what is now Clay township, formerly a 
portion of Elizabeth township, Lancaster 
county, Pa. He married and left issue, 
among others (surname Brubaker): 

i. Abraham, m. and had David, John, 

Abraham, Jacob, and Peter, 
ii. John, m. and had John, Jacob, and 

Abraham. 
Hi. Daniel, m. and had Daniel and John. 
iv. Christian, m. and had Abraham and 

John, 
v. Jacob, m. and had Jacob and John. 

IV. Joseph Brubaker (Daniel, John), b. 
about 1741, in Lancaster county, Pa., d. 
about the year 1808, in Halifax township, 
Dauphin county, Pa. In 1785 he purchased 
a large tract of land in then Upper Paxtang 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., and in 1790 
with his family settled thereon. At that 
early period the comforts of civilization were 
few, schools, homes and churches being widely 
scattered ; nevertheless he erected the altar 
of his simple faith (Dunkard) and in that, 
after the manner of his fathers, instructed his 
sons and daughters. Mr. Brubaker in., 1764, 
Elizabeth Downer. They had issue (sur- 
name Brubaker) : 

5. i. Daniel, b. June 6, 1765; m., 1st, Catha- 

rine Singer; 2d, Barbara Brubaker. 

6. ii. Elizabeth, b. 1770; m. John Meetch, 

Jr. 
, 7. Hi. Jacob, b. 1775 ; m. Barbara Bartle. 
iv. Joseph, b. 1779. 
8. v. Ann, b. May 1, 1781 ; m. John Boyer. 



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DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



91 



9. vi. Catharine, b. 1790; m. Jacob Bra- 
baker. 
10. vii. John (twin), b. 1800; ra. Julia Me- 
haffey. 

V. Daniel Brubaker (Joseph, Daniel, 
John), b. June 6, 1765, in Lancaster county, 
Pa.; d. February 19, 1843, in Halifax, Dau- 
phin county, Pa.; was twice married; 1st, 
Catherine Singer. They had issue (sur- 
name Bruhaker) : 

i. Joseph. 

ii. Jonathan, m. Eliza Rutter, and had 
John-Rutter, in. Louisa Poffenber- 
ger. 
Daniel Brubaker m., secondly, Barbara 
Brubaker. They had issue: 
. Hi. Ann, m. S. W. Straw, and had Joseph, 
iv. Maria, m. A. W. Loomis, and had 
Albert, Daniel, Barbara, and Will- 
iam. 

VI. Elizabeth Brubaker, (Joseph, 
Daniel, John), b. about 1770; d. April 28, 
1822; m. John Meetch, Jr.,* b. 1761; d. 
1828, son of John Meetch, Sr. They had 
issue (surname Meetch) : 

11. i. Joseph-B., b. September 3, 1792 ; m. 

Alice A. Buchanan. 
ii. Rebecca, b. 1795 ; d. July 16, 1829 ; m. 

Thomas Trump, and had Alfred- 

Heaton, d. s. p., and Cyrus. 
Hi. Benjamin, m. Sarah Hoffman, and 

had Frank and Lizzie, m. Daniel 

Chubb. 
iv. Daniel, 
v. John, b. 1803. 
vi. Elizabeth, b.1805; d.1847; m. Michael 

*John Meetch, Sr., the son of an Irish magistrate, 
was born in Enniskillen, county Fermanagh, Ire- 
land, in 1724. He received a good education. 
Marrying in opposition to his father, he came with 
his wife to America about 1752, landing at New 
York. Prom thence they went to the headwaters 
of the Susquehanna, finally passing down that river, 
locating on the northern side of Peter's mountain, 
thus being one of the early pioneers of that locality. 
In 1756 his family was driven off by the Indians — 
but returned when the settlers had organized for 
their own defence. In the French and Indian war, 
Mr. Meetch took up arms in aid of the frontiers, 
and when the storm of the Revolution burst upon 
the country he was an active participant, being in 
Capt. John Reed's company during the Jersey cam- 
paign of 1776-7. Mr. Meetch died at his residence 
in 1794, his wife surviving him only a few years. 
They had five children who reached maturity: 
Nana/, m. John Cavet, went to Knoxville. Tenn., 
where she died at the age of ninety ; Mary, m. 

Brown, removed to Westmoreland county, 

Pa.; Rebecca, m. Dunlap, settled in Erie 

county, Pa.; Elizabeth, m. Robert Lyon, removed to 
Northumberland county, Pa., and John, who mar- 
ried and remained on the homestead, as above. 



Freeburn, and had John-M., m. 
Susan Wickersham. 
12. vii. Ann, b. 1807 ; m. Benjamin Hoon. 
lS.viii. Mary, b. September 25, 1809; m. 

George Carpenter. 
14. ix. Catharine, b. June 7, 1811 ; m. John 
Frederick. 
x. Robert, 
xi. Sarah, b. 1817 ; m. Joseph Brubaker. 

VII. Jacob Brubaker (Joseph, Daniel, 
John), b ; 1775; d. prior to 1808; m. Bar- 
bara Bartle, b. 1766 ; died October 11, 1853, 
in Middletown, Pa., and is buried in the M. 
E. graveyard there. Concerning the wife 
of Jacob Brubaker, we have the following : 
She was of German parentage and born 
in Cumberland county, Pa. Her mother, 
Christiana Bartle, was a woman of strong, 
practicable turn of mind, of good education, 
and possessed of a firm reliance upon divine 
Providence. Her father, Andrew Bartle, re- 
moved to Harper's Ferry, where he remained 
until the outset of the Revolution, when he 
went to near Fort Licking, on the Holstein 
river. A year after their settlement they 
were taken captive by the Indians, and with 
other prisoners marched toward Detroit. 
On the journey the prisoners were separated, 
each party consisting of eight whites and 
nine Indians. Barbara, with her mother 
and sister Wilhelmina, continued together 
until the latter, a delicate girl of fourteen, 
fell by the way exhausted, when one of the 
savages struck her with a tomahawk, and 
scalping her proceeded onward. The an- 
guish of the mother and sister cannot be de- 
scribed. The march was rapid and provi- 
sions scarce, the entire part) 7 subsisting for 
three days on a pair of pigeons caught by 
one of their number. Barbara received from 
'her Indian captor kind treatment, and when 
her little feet gave out he carried her upon 
his back until she was rested. When they 
gathered around the campfire after the day's 
march, her mother would take her Bible, 
which she carried with her, and read aloud 
by the light of the blazing logs. Her heroic 
endurance of the hardships of her situation 
had won the admiration of the savages. 
Her reading from " the book " had to them 
an appearance of mystery that to their 
untutored minds savored of the super- 
natural, and when the time came for her to 
read, they were her earnest and reverential 
listeners, while as the)' expressed it. she 
" made the book talk." When grown to wo- 



92 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



manhood Barbara was often heard to say 
that the Indians treated her infinitely better 
than did the British, into whose hands she 
afterwards fell. Arriving at Detroit, they 
were delivered to the British, starved and ill- 
treated, and every indignity and abuse 
heaped upon them by their white captors. 
At the end of six weeks' captivity among 
the Indians, and two years and a half among 
the British, she and her mother were ex- 
changed as prisoners of war. Barbara Bar- 
tie had become a perfect mistress of the arts of 
swimming, diving and skating, and was sub- 
sequently instrumental in saving more than 
one person from a watery grave. She grew 
to be a lovely woman, and afterwards mar- 
ried Jacob Brubaker. They left issue (sur- 
name Brnbaker): 
15. i. Joseph, b. August 12, 1797 ; m., first, 

Rachel Frederick ; secondly, Sarah 

Meetch . 
ii. Jacob, b. 1800 ; d. 1859. 

VIII. Ann Brubaker (Joseph, Daniel, 
John), b. Mav 1, 1781 ; d. January 1, 1857 ; 
m. John Boyer, b. 1792 ; d. 1860. They had 
issue (surname Boyer) : 

i. Joseph, b. 1817; d. 1875; m. Mary 
Syler, and had David, Joseph, Mary- 
Jane, and Sarah, 
ii. Elizabeth, b. 1819 ; d. 1844; m. Fred- 
erick Fronk, and had Henry and 
Rebecca. 
Hi. John, b. 1822 ; m. Jane E. Keagle, and 
had Rebecca, Elizabeth, Mary, Kate, 
Margaret, John-Doivner, and Philip. 

IX. Catharine Brubaker (Joseph, Dan- 
iel, John), b. about 1790 ; m. Jacob Bru- 
baker, b. December 22, 5787; d. December 
22, 1851. They had issue (surname Bru- 
baker) : 

i. John, m. Maria Clemson, and had 

William and Lydia. 
ii. Hiram, m. Sarah Umberger, and had 

Rebecca, Benjamin, and Millard. 
Hi. Henry, m. Rebecca Shammo, and had 

Jacob and Samuel, 
iv. Benjamin, m. Barbara Loomis, and 

had Mary-J., Earnest, and Myrtle. 
v. Susanna, 
vi. Mary. 
mi. Isaac, m. Mary Geist, and had John- 

H. and Margaret, 
viii. Jacob. 

X. John Brubaker (Joseph, Daniel, 
John), b. about 1800 ; d. 1826 ; m. Julia Me- 



haffey, and there was issue (surname Bru- 
baker) : 

i. Elizabeth, m. John Fullwood,and had 
Sarah, Julia, Emma, Charles, John, 
and William. 

ii. Sarah, m. Ebron, and had 

issue. 
Hi. Henry- Mehaffey, m. Kate Guernsey, 
and had Mary, John, and Stephen. 

XL Joseph B. Meetch (Elizabeth, Jos- 
eph, Daniel, John), b. September 3, 1792; 
d. December 25, 1875; m. Alice Ann Bu- 
chanan. They had issue (surname Meetch): 
i. Mary-R. 

ii. Alice-Ann, m. Herman Chubb, and 
had Ellen, Joseph, Myra, Myrtle, 
Mary, and Harry. 
Hi. William- Buchanan, m. Mary Sheaffer, 

and had issue Annie and Sarah, 
iv. John. 

XII. Ann Meetch (Elizabeth, Joseph, 
Daniel, John), b. 1807; d. 1854; m. Benja- 
min Hoon ; and had issue (surname Hoon): 

i. John, m. Livingston, and had 

John and Justina. 
ii. Joseph-E., m. and had Clarence, John, 

and Joseph. 
Hi. Harrieit-E., m. George English, and 

had Emma, George, Clara, and 

Lucy, 
iv. Sarah. 

v. Annie-Clara, m. John Metzger. 
vi. Mary. 
vii. Benjamin. 

XIII. Mary Meetch (Elizabeth, Joseph, 
Daniel, John), b. September 25, 1809 ; d. Jan- 
uary 26, 1879 ; m. George Carpenter. They 
had issue (surname Carpenter): 

i. James- B., b. August 11, 1830; m. 
Mary Garman, and had James, 
America, and Allen. 

ii. Lizzie-M., b. November 3, 1832 ; d. 
September 25, 1857 ; m. Stiles Dun- 
can, and had Mary and Harry. 

ii. Charles-D. 

iv. Thomas-B., b. April 16, 1838; m. 
Emma F. Brubaker, and had Sarah, 
Benton and Duncan. 

v. John-H. 

vi. George- W., b. July 4, 1842; m. Sallie 
Fyson, and had Bruce and Walter. 

XIV. Catharine Meetch (Elizabeth, 
Joseph, Daniel, John), b. June 7, 1811 ; m., 
April 8, 1830, John Frederick; b. May 6, 
1806. They had issue (surname Frederick) : 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



93 



i. Emma, m. William Wilson. 
ii. Marion. 
Hi. Kate. 

iv. Clara, m. Isaac Shivers. 
v. John- W., m. Mary Powell, and had 

Warford. 
vi. Ella, 
vii. Annie. 

viii. Walton, m. Ziegler. 

ix. Charles, in. Annie (Powell) Frederick. 

XV. Joseph Brubaker (Jacob, Joseph, 
Daniel, John), b. August 12, 1797 ; d. March 
31, 1871 ; was a justice of the peace fifteen 
years, and for a long period postmaster at 
Halifax ; he was a gentlemen of integrity, 
uprightness, and was liberal and humane to 
the poor and unfortunate. He was twice 
married; first to Rachel Frederick, who 
died in 1828, leaving no issue; secondly 
August 16, 1835, Sarah Meetch, b. 1817; d. 
November 27, 1880. They had issue (sur- 
name Brubaker) : 

i. Sarah-L., m. C. E. McFarland, and 
had Virginia, Bruce, Mabel, Laura, 
and Walter, 
ii. John- Meetch. 

Hi. Emma-F., m. Thomas B. Carpenter, 

and had Sarah, Benton, and Duncan. 

iv. Lillie-K., m. J. Wesley Straw, and 

had John, 
v. Joseph- W. 
vi. James-EC. 
vii. Charles-E. 



Clark, of Clark's Valley. 

William Clark, the first of the name to 
settle in this country, was of Scotch-Irish de- 
scent, and came to America in 1728. He 
settled in then Chester county, Province of 
Pennsylvania, and died there. His sou, 
William, was born in Pennsylvania, and 
after reaching manhood, with his family 
settled in what was at first called the " Nar- 
rows of Paxtang," then Upper Paxtang 
township, Dauphin county, in a valley about 
two miles from the Susquehanna river, giv- 
ing to the valley and the creek the name of 
Clark, which they still retain. The farm on 
which they settled is yet known as the Clark 
farm, although it has passed into other 
hands. After residing there a number of 
years he rented his farm and migrated to 
Northumberland county, in this State, where 
he bought a farm, and lived there until com 



pelled to leave on account of the hostile at- 
titude of the Indians, which caused the 
" Great Runaway " of 1778-79. They buried 
all their farming implements, lashed two 
canoes together and taking some few clothes 
with them, sailed down the Susquehanna 
river, and thus escaped the savages. They 
then returned to Middle Paxtang, where the 
second William died. His children were as 
follows : 

i. Robert. 

ii. John. 

Hi. James. 

iv. William. 

v. Jane. 

vi. Love, 
vii. Sarah, 
viii. Elizabeth. 

Robert, the eldest of the children, was 
never married. He lived the greater part 
of his life in Dauphin county, and finallj' 
died in Perry county. 

John, the second son, and Jane, the eldest 
of the girls, lived on a farm about one mile 
up Clark's A^alley. Neither of them were 
married ; they lived to a good age and died 
on the farm where they had lived. 

James, the third son, was never married, 
and died when a young man. 

Love, the second daughter, married James 
Hines. They at one time resided at Erie, 
Pa., and from there removed to Indianapolis, 
Ind., or in that neighborhood. 

Sarah, the third daughter, married Moses 
Gladding and lived most of her life in 
Clark's Valley. 

Elizabeth, the youngest of the sisters, mar- 
ried Richard Green, a son of Col. Timothy 
Green. They had two children, Timothy 
and Jane. 

William Clark, the youngest son, was 
born February 18, 1774. He left home after 
he became of age and went to the western 
part of the State, and settled in Crawford 
county, near what is now Meadville, Pa. 
He there married Miss Sarah Patterson in 
1S02. He was elected associate judge of 
Crawford county, and was in the war of 1812 
and '14, when he was appointed brigade in- 
spector of the Western district of Pennsyl- 
vania. He rendered service in forwarding 
men and supplies to Erie ; was on board the 
flagship St. Lawrence in her first engage- 
ment with the British fleet on Lake Erie. 
He was appointed by Governor Findlay 
secretary of the Land Office, which position 



94 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



he held from May 11, 1818, to May 11, 1821. 
He was chosen by the Legislature to the 
office of State treasurer and served from 
1821 to 1827. He was elected to Congress 
from the district composed of Dauphin and 
Lebanon counties. Was appointed by the 
President, Treasurer of the United States, 
his commission signed hy John Quincy 
Adams, President, and Henry Clay, Secre- 
tary of State, is dated June 4, 1828 ; and 
held the office until the election of Andrew 
Jackson as President. He spent the most of 
his time in Dauphin county and died March 
28, 1851, aged 77 years. His children were : 
i. Pataline. 

ii. William. 

Hi. John. 

vs. James. 

v. Sarah. 

vi. Margaret. 

vii. Elizabeth, b. January 6, 1817. 
viii. Anna, b. April 29, 1819 ; d. December 
4, 1888. 

ix. Jane, b. October 7, 1821; d. voung. 

x. Ellen, b. November 15, 1823. 

xi. Jefferson. 
Pataline married David Steel, who lived 
near New Buffalo, in Perry county. Mr. 
Steel died shortly after they were married, 
and left one daughter, Sarah-F., who mar- 
ried Philip B. Greenawalt, with whom Mrs. 
Steel lived until her death, which occurred 
June 15, 1882. Her grandchildren were 
(surname Greenawalt) : 
i. William-Clark. 

ii. Bertha-May, d. s. p. 

Hi. Philip- Herbert. 

iv. Alice, d. s. p. 

v. Mary-Ehrman. 
William, Jr., was born March 3, 1805 ; he 
never married; represented Dauphin county 
in the State Legislature, and filled many 
positions of trust; died at his home in Dau- 
phin May 19, 1870. 

John, born February 20, 1807, lived most 
of his life in Crawford county ; was a major 
in the State militia, and engaged in the tan- 
ning business. He d. April 29, 1876. He 
married Sophia Atkinson, and their children 
were: 

i. Sarah, m. F. H. Bemis. 

ii. Anna, m. H. Sheppardson. 
Hi. William, d. s. p. 

iv. Thomas, killed in the battle of the 
Wilderness. 

v. James, d. s. p. 

vi. Henry- Clay, living in the West. 



James, born October 21, 1809, graduated 
from West Point and was a captain in the 
regular army, which position he resigned to 
study theology ; he died in 1886 at George- 
town, D. O, at the universitj' of that name. 
Sarah was born December 18, 1811, and 
died at the age of 19 years. 

Margaret, born May 3, 1814, married Will- 
iam J. Robinson, of Dauphin. She died 
February 21, 1874. Their childi'en were: 
i. Charles, d. s. p. 
ii. Elizabeth, m. Preston Miller. 
iii. Sarah. 

iv. Anna-Clark, m. Capt. J. F. Wilson. 
v. William, d. s. p. 
vi. Margaret, 
vii. Rev. Ediuin-P. 
viii. Ellen, d. s. p. 
ix. Harry- Justice, d. s. p. 
x. James-Weir. 
Jefferson, the youngest of the family, was 
born August 15, 1826 ; was engaged in the 
mercantile business for years ; was post- 
master for a long time and one of the first 
elders in the Presbyterian church at Dau- 
phin. He married, in 1855, Miss Margaret 
Kimmel, of Shippensburg, daughter of 
George Kimmel, Esq. Their children were: 
i. Dr. Charles- Henry, m. May Zacharias. 
ii. Dr. William-Patterson, m. Kate S. 

' Bell. 
iii. Qeorge-Kimmel, d. s. p. 
iv. Edwin- Robinson, d. s. p. 
v. Horace-Moore, 
vi. Thomas- Cummin, 
vii. Mabel. 



The Cocheans of Paxtang. 

I. John Cochran, 1 of the house of Dun- 
donald, crossed over from Paisley in Scotland 
to the Province of Ulster, Ireland, about 
1570 — perhaps a little earlier. From him 
descended James Cochran 2 , whose second 
son was Robert and fourth son John 3 . 
Robert Cochran had a son Robert, called 
" Deaf Robert." From John 3 we have 
James 4 , and in the subsequent generation 
Robert 5 , called " Honest Robert." He had 
James, Stephen, and David of the sixth gen- 
eration, who came to Pennsylvania and 
settled on the Octoraro, in Chester county. 
Concerning Stephen and. David we have 
meager information. James Cochran 6 mar- 
ried his kinswoman, Isabella, daughter 
of "Deaf Robert." James Cochran died in 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



95 



1766 — his wife some years later. They had 
issue : 

i. Ann, b. 1724; m., 1st, Alex. Leckey; 

2d, Rev. John Roan. 
ii. Robert, b. 1726 ; left a daughter, Isa- 
bella. 
in. James, b. 1728 ; d. in April, 1768. 
iv. John, b. September 1, 1730; was Dr. 
John Cochran, surgeon general of 
the Revolution, and an intimate 
friend of Washington; d. April 6, 
1807; m., December 4, 1760, Ger- 
trude Schuyler, sister to Gen. Philip 
Schuvler, of the Revolution. 
v. Stephen, b. 1732. 

vi. Jane, b. 1734 ; m. Rev. Alexander 
Mitchell. 
2. vii. George, b. 1736. 

II. George Cochran (Jcines, Robert, 
James, John, James, John), the youngest son 
of James and Isabella Cochran, was born 
about 1736, on the Octoraro, Chester county, 
Pa. . He settled on the Swatara, where he 
died about 1770. • He married Annie Henry, 
daughter of Rev. James Henry, a Presbyte- 
rian minister, who came from the north of 
Ireland and settled at Pomoco, Md., about 
1739. She died on the Swatara. They 
had issue : 

i. Israel, m. Isabel Hammel, and left one 

daughter, Jean ; she married 

Reaznor, of Erie county, in 1808, 
and died a few years after her mar- 
riage. Mr. Hammel, after his wife's 
death, removed to Ohio, leaving his 
daughter Jean with her uncle, 
John Cochran. 
ii. Sarah, m. William Robertson ; re- 
moved to Danville, Montour county, 
Pa., where they died, leaving issue: 
John, Isabella, James, William, 
Samuel, Jane, and Mary. 
Hi. Jean, m. William Thompson, and re- 
moved to Buffalo Valley, where 
they lived until their death. They 
had Nancy, James, and Ruth. 
Jamesbecame a Presbyterian clergy- 
man, and was connected with the 
Huntingdon Presbytery. 
iv. John, b. 1761 ; spent his earliest years 
in Chester county, among his fa- 
ther's friends, where he received a 
good education and studied survey- 
ing. In 1792 he removed to North- 
umberland county, now Union 
county; from thence to Erie county 



in 1796 as deputy surveyor under 
Thomas Rees, who was the first 
State surveyor appointed by the 
Land Department of the Common- 
wealth for that county. Mr. Coch- 
ran surveyed and laid out the 
Erie and Waterford Reservations 
with tracts and farms in 1796-7. 
He purchased tracts 30 and 70 of 
the Erie reserve, and removed his 
family there in 1799. In 1800 he 
built a rude saw and grist mill on 
Mill creek, where is Dinsmore's 
mill, now Stewart's. Gov. McKean 
appointed Mr. Cochran deputy sur- 
veyor of Erie county, July 9, 1801, 
and subsequently, July 5, 1803, one 
of the associates judges of the 
county. He was appointed by Gov- 
ernor Snyder secretary of the Land 
Office in 1809 ; removed to Lancas- 
ter with his family, and afterwards 
to Harrisburg. He held the office 
nine years, when he returned to his 
home in Mill Creek, near Erie. He 
lived on this farm until his death, 
May 1, 1836. Judge Cochran's wife 
wasSarahLattimore; she died about 
1840. They had two sons: George, 
who died in December, 1827, un- 
married, and Robert, who married, 
about 1820, Eliza Justice, by whom 
he had nine children. Robert Coch- 
ran was appointed by President 
Jackson, postmaster of Erie, Feb- 
ruary 26, 1833, filled it seven years ; 
and was again appointed by Presi- 
dent Polk, July 23, 1845, holding 
the office four years. He died on 
the old Cochran farm, in South Erie, 
December 9, 1869, aged seventy 
years. 
v. Annie, b. August 16, 1763, in now 
Dauphin county, Pa., d. April 12, 
1857, at Winchester, Tenn.; mar- 
ried in 1787, Sankey Dixon, son of 
John and Arabella Dixon, born in 
1762 in Londonderry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa. ; died at Knox- 
ville, Tenn., November 11, 1812, at 
the age of fifty. 
In the Paxtang assessment, north end, for 
1749, the earliest we have, appear the names 
of William, Andrew, George, and John Coch- 
ran. Of George and his descendants we have 
spoken. The others were probably children 
of David or Stephen, previously referred to. 



96 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Later we find the names of Samuel, James, 
and William. 

Andrew Cochran, of Paxtang, died at an 
advanced age in November, 1775 ; his estate 
was bequeathed to his children, his wife 
having previously deceased : 

i. Margaret, m., August 17, 1756,Thomas 
Wiley. 

ii. Jean, m. Campbell. 

hi. Mary, m., November, 1774, Robert 
Whitehall. 

iv. Sarah, m. Chambers. 

v. John. 
vi. Andrew, 
vii. William. 

Samuel Cochran, b. in 1732; d. April 8, 
1816, in Middle Paxtang. He was a private 
in Captain Rutherford's company of asso- 
ciators in 1776 and 1777. He left a wife 
Margaret, and had issue as follows : 

i. \_A dau.~\, m. John Hatfield, and had 

Margaret and John. 
ii. Margaret. 
Hi. Jane, 
iv. Martha, m. William Forster, and had 

Samuel. 
v. Isabella, m. Philip Reichart. 
vi. Rachel, 
vii. William. 

James Cochran was probably a son of 
Andrew Cochran, b. in 1742; d. July 16, 
1822, and is buried in Paxtang. He was a 
private in Captain Rutherford's company of 
associators in 1776. He married, November 
22, 1770, Mary Montgomery, of Paxtang, b. 
in 1744 ; d. August 6, 1803, and is also in- 
terred in Paxtang. They liad issue, among 
others: 

i. John, b. 1773 ; d. November 16, 1845; 
m. Hannah Cowden, b. 1778; d. 
May 31, 1850. 
ii. Andrew. 
Hi. Jane, m. Henry Peffer. 

John Cochran, a soldier of Captain Mur- 
ray's company of the Revolution, died in 
November, 1789 ; his wife Caroline died 
in April, 1804. They had John, who had 
issue : Lydia, Caroline, Ann, m. Jeremiah 
Grain, and Jamison. 

We have the following disconnected data: 

William Cochran, b. 1780; d. April 26, 
1840; m., January 11, 1810, Rachel, daughter 
of Christian Gross. 

Samuel^Cochran, Jr., was a private in 
Capt. John Rutherford's company of asso- 



ciators in 1776. He married, December 11, 
1770, Mary Sherer, of Paxtang. His daugh- 
ter Margaret married, October 20, 1803, 
David Mitchell, of Cumberland county. 

Jacob Cochran, of Chester county, died 
prior to 1785. His children, minors, Jacob, 
David, John, and Mary, were then residing in 
Dauphin county. David died January 21, 
1809. John married, March 3, 1804, Mary 
Hart, of Middle Paxtang. 

Samuel Cochran, of Chester county, 
was surveyor general of Pennsylvania from 
1800 to 1809. He died at Cochranville, 
Chester county, Pa., Mav 3, 1829. His son 
Samuel, b. 1797; d. September 5, 1821, at 
Harrisburg. 

Among the Rev. John Roan's marriages 
are the following : 

Margaret Cochran and Thomas Wiley, 
August 17, 1756. 

Janet Cochran and Robert Whitely, April 
24, 1759. 

Martha Cochran and Andrew Caldwell, 
October 1, 1771. 

Martha Cochran and James Robinson, 
September 12, 1769. 

Mary Cochran and Robert Whitehill, 
November 1, 1774. 



The Crawfords, of Hanover. 

I. Robert Crawford, of Scotch parent- 
age, born in count}' Donegal, Ireland, emi- 
grated to America prior to 1728, with sev- 
eral of his sons : 

i. James, who settled in Paxtang town- 
ship, and had surveyed to him in 
March, 1738, 258 acres of land on 
the bank of the Susquehanna river, 
adjoining Robert and William 
Renick's land. This location was 
subsequently secured by Joseph 
Chambers, James locating in Hano- 
ver township. 

ii. Robert, settled in Hanover. 

Hi. Hugh, settled in Hanover. 

2. iv. William, settled in Drumore town- 

ship, Lancaster count} 7 . 

3. v. John, settled in Hanover. 

II. William Crawford (Robert), d. in 
June, 1767, in Drumore township, Lancaster 
county, Pa., leaving a wife Violet, and chil- 
dren as follows : 

i. John. 
ii. Agnes, m. Robert Mcllhenny. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



97 



Hi. Isabel, m. William Moore. 
iv. Elizabeth, m. John Crawford. 
v. Robert, 
vi. Margaret. 

III. John Crawford (Robert), emigrated 
to Pennsylvania with his family and friends 
prior to 1728 ; he married, and had issue 
among others : 

4. i. James, b. 1730 ; m., 1st, Rosanna Alli- 

son ; 2d, Agnes McDonald. 

5. ii. John, b. 1736; m. Elizabeth Crawford. 

6. Hi. Richard, b. 1740; m. Elizabeth . 

IV. James Crawford (John, Robert), b- 
1730, in Hanover, seems to have removed to 
the West Branch in Northumberland county 
about 1770. He was a member of the con- 
vention of July, 1776, which framed the first 
Constitution of the State, and on the 8th of 
October following commissioned major of 
Col. Wm. Cooke's regiment of the Pennsyl- 
vania Line. He resigned October 12, 1777, 
on account of being deprived of his rank, 
but proposed to serve through the contest at 
his own expense. He afterwards filled the 
offices of sheriff, commissioner and justice of 
the peace. He died about 1812 or 1813 and 
was buried in the old Pine Creek burying 
ground, near Jersey Shore. 

Major Crawford was twice married, first, to 
Rosanna Allison, daughter of John and 
Ann Allison, of Lancaster county. She 
was a superior woman. Her sister, Marga- 
ret Allison, a notable woman in her day, 
married Col. Hugh White, a soldier of the 
Revolution, who lived near Chatham's Run, 
Lycoming county, and from whom are de- 
scended the Whites of Williamsport and 
Wellsboro'. Through the first marriage of 
Major Crawford comes the connection with 
the Allisons of the Juniata Valley, one of 
whom, Robert, was a distinguished lawyer, a 
captain in the Black Hawk war of 1812, and 
subsequently a member of Congress. The 
children of James Crawford and Rosanna 
Allison, all born in Hanover, were : 

i. John, who served in the war of the 
Revolution ; went to the lower 
Mississippi, where he died, unmar- 
ried. , 
ii. Robert, who married Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Michael Quigley. Through 
her comes the relationship with the 
Quigleys, Cranes, Custards, Deis 



and others. Robert was palsied 
late in life, and died about 1836 
aged seventy-six. He was buried 
in the Pine Creek burying ground. 
His children were: Ann, m. Levi 
Packer ; George, m. Mrs. Elizabeth 
Weitzel White ; Nancy, m. Hugh 
White; Frances, m. Robert Shaw; 
James- Allison; and Eliza, m. 
Thomas Condon. 

Hi. Thomas, removed to North East, Erie 
county, Pa., where his descendants 
reside. 

iv. Ann, m. Benjamin Walker, whose de- 
scendants live at Laporte, Ind. 

Major Crawford married, secondly, Agnes 
McDonald, daughter of Captain McDonald, 
of Cumberland county. She survived her 
husband several years and is buried in Pine 
Creek graveyard. They had one daughter, 
Elizabeth, who removed after the death of 
her mother to Erie county, where she died 
many years ago, unmarried. 

V. John Crawford (John, Robert), b. 
1736, in Hanover township; d. April 8, 1789, 
in Hanover, and buried in the old Hanover 
church graveyard ; m. his cousin, Elizabeth 
Crawford, b. in Drumore township, Lancas- 
ter county, Pa.; d. June, 1824, in Hanover, 
and there buried. They had issue: 

i. William, d. November, 1829 ; m. Patty 
Crain. 

ii. Ann, m. Samuel Finney; d. Decem- 
ber, 1823. 

Hi. Violet, d. April, 1844. 

iv. Mattie (Martha), a character in her 
day; d. 1S42. 

v. John, d. February 18, 1811. 

VI. Richard Crawford (John, Robert), 
b. about 1740 in Hanover ; d. in 1813 at the 
residence of his daughter, Ann Wilson, in 
Anthony township, Columbia, now Montour 
county, Pa., whither he removed upon the 
death of his wife ; was buried in Warrior 
Run graveyard. He in., in 1765, Elizabeth 
, b. in 1745 ; d. June 12, 1810, in Han- 
over, and there buried. They had issue: 

i. Paul, b. 1766. 

ii. James, b. 1768 ; m. Mary Finney. 
Hi. Ann, b. 1772; m. Hugh Wilson. 
iv. Elizabeth, b. 1776; m. Rev. John 
Mood}', who died at Shippensburg. 
v. Mary, m. Robert Moody. 



98 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



The Endeks Family. 

I. Philip Christian Enders, b. July 22, 
1740, in Braunsigweiler, District of Zugen- 
heim, Nassau, Germany ; d. February 26, 
1809, in Halifax township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. After completing his education he en- 
tered the military service of his sovereign, 
William Heinrich, Prince of Nassau, partici- 
pating in numerous battles of the " Seven 
Years' War." For gallantry and other sol- 
dierly qualities he was promoted to a cap- 
taincy in the Royal cavahy. He subse- 
quently resigned his commission, and on 
May 13, 1764, married Anna Degen, daugh- 
ter of Conrad Degen, of Sippertsfield, Nassau. 
A few months later he came to America, ac- 
companied by his bride. His first settle- 
ment was in Philadelphia, and later in this 
part of then Lancaster county. In 17S8 he 
purchased a tract of over 1,300 acres of land 
in Upper Paxtang township. On this he 
permanently located, and here his last years 
peacefully passed away. He was one of the 
founders of Fetterhoff church, erected the 
first saw mill in the valley, taught the first 
school, and bore a leading part in many 
other enterprises. In 1796 his wife and eld- 
est son, John Philip, died and were buried a 
few rods from the cabin of the old settler. 
Thirteen years later the husband and father 
was laid by their side. He lived a long, use- 
ful and honored life, and his descendants 
have cause to thank God that their ancestor 
deserves their reverence, respect and grati- 
tude. His children were : 

i. John-Henry, b. 1765 ; d. s. p. 

2. ii. John-Philip, b. April 26, 1766 ; m. 

Elizabeth . 

Hi. Margaret, b. April 21, 1768 ; d. s. p. 

3. iv. Ann- Elizabeth, b. December 15, 1769 ; 

m., first, Adam Kreeger; secondly, 
John Shoener. 
v. [A son], b. July, 1771 ; d. s. p. 

4. vi. George-Michael, b. July 12, 1772 ; m. 

Elizabeth Crum. 
vii. John- George, b. March 11, 1774; d. 
1825 in Dauphin county ; in. Cath- 
arine Bowman, and left a large 
family. 
viii. \_A son], b. April, 1776 ; d. s. p. 

5. ix. Margaret-Martha (called Eva Margaret 

in her father's will), b. January 24, 
1778 ; m. Isaac Baughman. 

x. Christiana, b. July 24, 1779 ; m. John 
Miller, and their numerous descend- 
ants are scattered over many States. 

xi. Susaimah, b. February 12, 1781 ; d. s. p. 



xii. Catharine, b. March 25, 1783 ; d. in. 
1844; m. Peter Phillips; a num- 
ber of their children live in Bell- 
ville, 0.; he was a soldier in the 
war of 1812-14 ; removed to Ohio 
in 1839, but after the. death of his 
wife returned to Pennsylvania, 
where he died October 2, 1860. 
xiii. \_A son], b. January 11, 1785 ; d. s. p. 

xiv. John-Conrad (twin), b. January 11, 
1785 ; d. December 5, 1874; he in- 
herited the old homestead which is 
now in the possession of his young- 
est son, Daniel. 

II. John Philip Enders (Philip-Chris- 
tian), b. April 26, 1766, in Philadelphia; d. 
October, 1794, in Dauphin county; m. Eliz- 
abeth ; and had children: 

6. i. Philip, b. August 15, 1790 ; m. Anna 
Hummel. 
il. Susanna, b. June 25, 1791 ; m. Leonard 
Peters ; of their descendants, nearly 
all reside in Pennsylvania. 
Hi. John, b. August 25, 1792 ; went West 
when young, and all trace of him 
lost. 

III. Anna Elizabeth Enders (Philip- 
Christian), b. December 15, 1769, in Lan- 
caster county, Pa.; d. in Crawford county, 
Ohio, many years ago; m., first, Adam 
Kreeger, a tailor by trade, who died in 
Cumberland county, Pa.; and there was 
issue (surname Kreeger): 

i. John, d. in 1878, s. p.; was a minister 

in the Church of God. 
ii. Jacob, d. April 7, 1850, in Galion, 
Ohio ; m. Anna Campbell, and had 
issue, besides four children d. in in- 
fancy (surname Kreeger): 

1. Sarah- Jane, b. January 22,. 

1828 ; m. John Hindman. 

2. Elizabeth-F., b. September 7, 

1829; m. Milton Penders ; 
reside in Indiana. 

3. Jacob-C, b. May 21, 1833; re- 

sides in New Orleans. 

4. Jeremiah- W.; b. April 11, 1838 ; 

m. Prudence Love; reside in 
Indiana. 

5. Mary-A., b. April 7, 1842 ; m. 

William Angle. 

6. Benjamin-F., b. April 22, 1843; 

m. Sarah A. Scott ; reside in 
Galion, Ohio. 

7. Joseph-R., b. January 15,1845; 

married. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



99 



8. Amanda-J., b. January 11, 
1847 ; m. John Warden. 
Hi. Margaret, m. Michael Watson. 
iv. Elizabeth, in. John Rose. 
Mrs. Kreeger afterwards in. John Shoener, 
a clock maker ; they emigrated to Ohio, 
where they both deceased ; no children. 

IV. George Michael Enders (Philip- 
Christian), b. July 12, 1772 ; d. October, 1831, 
in Dauphin county, Pa.; m. Elizabeth Crum, 
and had issue : 

i. Jacob, d. March 16, 1857, s. p. 

ii. Elizabeth, b. October 25, 1799 ; m. 
Christian Zimmerman, and had 
eleven children. 

Hi. Catharine, m. Michael Hummel ; had 
one son. 

iv. Sarah, b. February 18, 1810; m. Fred- 
erick Eberween ; resided in Winter- 
set, Iowa. 

v. William, b. April 28, 1812 ; m. and 
resided in Harrisburg. 

V. Margaret Martha Enders (Philip- 
Christian), b. January 24, 1778; d. March 
29, 1864, in Ohio ; m. Isaac Baughman, d. 
July 25,1869, in Knox county, Ohio, whence 
he emigrated with his family in 1848; was 
a miller by trade. They had issue (surname 
Baughman): 

i. John, b. June 3, 1802 ; d. near Cham- 
bersburg, Pa.; m. and had a large 
family. 

ii. Samuel, b. January 30, 1804 ; a son, 
Jeremiah, resides at Fort Wayne, 
Ind. 

m. Elizabeth, b. January 28, 1807; m. 
John Vending, and had seven chil- 
dren. 

iv. Margaret, b. March 4, 1809 ; m. 

Reed ; resided at Mt. Vernon, Ohio. 

v. Sarah, b. February 5, 1811 ; m. Peter 
Hoke. 

vi. Mary, b. June 21, 1812 ; m. Rev. Sol- 
omon McHenry ; had seven chil- 
dren. 
mi. Catharine, b. March 29, 1814 ; m. 
Wingert, and had six chil- 
dren. 
viii. Isaac, b. July 5, 1817 ; d. January 15, 
1883 ; in., and left three children. 

ix. Rosanna, b. March 14, 1818 ; resided 
at Chambersburg, Pa. 

x. William- C, b. March 15, 1822 ; was a 
miller ; m. Frances Wingert, and 
had twelve children. 

VI. Philip Enders (John-Philip, Philip- 



Christian), b. August 15, 1790; d. 1874, in 
Genesee county, Mich.; removed to Erie 
county, N. Y., in 1827, and shortly after to 
Genesee county, Mich.; m. Anna Hummel, 
and there was issue: 

i. Sarah, in. William Myers. 
ii. Lucy, m. Benjamin Ineasly. 
Hi. Samuel, m. Nancy Rhodes. 
iv. Jeremiah, m., and resides in Australia. 
v. George- W., m., and resides in Genesee 

county, Mich. 
vi. Elizabeth, m. B. Brosius. 
vii. Norman, a farmer living in Genesee 

county, Mich. 
viii. Mary-A., m. Abraham Mastin. 
ix. Harry-H., m., and resides in Michigan. 
x. Martha, d. in infancy. 
xi. Almeda, d. in infancy. 
xii. Franklin, d. s. p. 



Fahnestock Family. 

I. Diedrick Fahnestock, son of Laborius 
Fahnestock was born February 2, 1696, in 
Halten in the district of Hagen, Province of 
Westphalia, Prussia, emigrated to America 
in 1726, first settled on the Raritan, New 
Jersey, but a few years later we find him 
at Ephrata, now Lancaster county, Pa. 
He subsequently took up a tract of three 
hundred and twenty-nine acres of land 
which was surveyed to him October 12, 
1735. He died in Cocalico township on the 
10th of October, 1775, his will being proved 
January 22, 1776. Diedrick Fahnestock 
married prior to his emigration to America, 
Anna Margaretta Hertz, b. July 23, 1702; d. 
September 29, 1783. Of their children the 
two eldest were born on the old homestead 
at Halten on the Rhine. One sister accom- 
panied the family, Elizabeth, who married 
Henry Dierdorf at Amwell, N. J.; subse- 
quently another sister, Armella, came to 
America — she united with the Seventh Day 
Baptist society at Ephrata. " It was not for 
the comforts of this life," wrote Diedrick 
Fahnestock, " but in the hope of finding 
people of more congenial religious faith," 
that induced him to emigrate to Pennsyl- 
vania, and he found them at Ephrata. His 
family were: 

2. i. Casper, b. April 11, 1724, m. Maria 
Catharine Gleim. 
ii. Andrew, b. 1726, d. on ship- 
board, near the American coast, 
and buried in New York. 



tii *- 



100 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



3. Hi. Peter, b. March 3, 1730, m. Elizabeth 

Bolthouser. 

4. iv. Diedrick, b. December 25, 1733 ; m. 

Esther Bauman. 

5. v. John, b. 1735; m., first, Rebecca 

Groff; secondly, Catharine Studa- 
baker. 

6. vi. Daniel, b. 1793 ; m., first, Ellen Lustin ; 

secondly, Catharine Rider. 
vii.Joseba, b. 1742; d. June 20, 1816; 
m. John Urie. 

7. viii. Benjamin, b. May 2, 1747 ; m., first, 

Catharine Garber; secondly, Chris- 
tiana Underwood. 

8. ix. Borius, b. May 9, 1744 ; m. Elizabeth 

Enders. 

II. Casper Fahnestock (Diedrick), b. 
April 11, 1724, in Halten-on-the-Rhine ; d. 
August 17, 1808, in Lancaster county, Pa.; 
m., about 1760, Maria Catharine Gleim, b.- 
1739; d. August 5, 1805, in Lancaster 
county, Pa.; daughter of John Godfreid 
Gleim, of Wiesbaden, Germany. They had 
issue : 

9. i. Charles, b. February 1,1761; m. Susan 

Smith. 

ii, Daniel, b. January 11, 1763; d. May 

30,1830; unm. 
Hi, Esther, b. 1766; d. 1844; m. Casper 
Smith. 

iv, Diedrick. b. March 14, 1771 ; d. Janu- 
ary 18, 1821 ; unm. 

v. Catharine, b. March 3, 1774; d. Au- 
gust 9, 1853; m. Solomon Gorgas. 

III. Peter Fahnestock (Diedrick), b. 
March 3, 1730, in Cocalico township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa.; d. September 15,1805; 
m, Elizabeth Bolthouser. They had issue : 

■i. Sarah, b. April 30, 1758; d. January 
30, 1792; unm. 

10. ii. Samuel, b. March 27, 1761 ; m., first, 

Hannah Studebaker ; secondly, 
Eleanor Sweigart. 

11. Hi, Conrad, b. July 19, 1763; m. Mary 

Hallacker. 
iv. Hannah, b. October 8, 1767 ; d. Janu- 
ary 16, 1844; m. John Landis. 

12. v. Obed, b. July 25, 1770; m. Anna 

Maria Gessell. 
vi. Margaretta, b. March 5, 1772; d. June 
12, 1847 ; m. Benj. Konigmacher. 
vii. Peter, b. 1776. 

viii. Elizabeth, b. March 24, 1779 ; d. May 
20, 1837; m. Dr. Daniel Fahne- 
stock. 
ix. Andrew, b. November 29, 1781 ; d. 



February 5, 1863; was a Seventh 
Day Baptist preacher ; m. Marga- 
ret Graver, and had issue : 

IV. Diedrick Fahnestock (Diedrick ), b. 
December 25, 1733, in Cocalico township, 
Lancaster count}', Pa. ; d. December 20, 1805 ; 
m. Esther Bauman, b. May 27, 1740, at 
Ephrata ; d. December 6, 1792. They had 
issue : 

i. Mary, b. October 2, 1762 ; m., first, 

Rudisell ; secondly, George 

Buehler. 
13. ii. Samuel, b. March 1<5, 1764; m. Re- 
becca Baker. 
Hi. Anna, b. July 31, 1765. 
iv. Esther, b. April 26, 1767 ; d. Decem- 
ber 6, 1792 ; m. Jacob Kimmel. 
v.Margaret, b. December 8, 1768; m. 

John Bauman. 
vi. Joseba, b. December 2, 1770; d. s. p. 
vii. Peter, b. April 4, 1772; in. Susan 
Bauman, and had issue. 
viii. Daniel, b. December 18, 1773 ; d. July 
29, 1829; m. Elizabeth Fahnestock, 
b. 1779 ; d. May 31, 1837, and had 
issue. 
ix. Joseba, b. July 18, 1775 ; m. John Hay. 
x. Susanna, b. March 8, 1777 ; m., first, 

Michael Pfoutz; secondly, 

Brubaker. 
xi. Christiana, b. September 11, 1780. 
xii. John, b. September 21, 1781 ; d. 1827; 
m. Mary Bush, b. 1799 ; d. March 
10, 1840, and had issue. 
xiii. Salome, b. December 30, 1784 ; d. 1803. 

V. John Fahnestock (Diedrick), b. 1735, 
in Cocalico township, Lancaster county, Pa.; 
d. May 22, 1812, at Pittsburgh; m., first, in 
1766, Rebecca Groff, d. January 12, 1773. 
They had issue : 

i. Molly, b. 1767 ; m. C. Studebaker. 

14. ii. Jacob, b. December 5, 1769 ; m. Sa- 

lome Fahnestock. 

15. Hi. Henry, b. March 6, 1772 ; m. Elizabeth 

Brindle. 
John Fahnestock (Diedrick) m., secondly, 
Catharine Studebaker, b. 1745 ; d. May 13, 
1822, at Pittsburgh. They had issue : 

iv. Rebecca, b. July 7, 1775 ; d. Decem- 
ber 3, 1832 ; m. Joseph Konig- 
macher. 
v. Hanna, b. 1780; d. 1866; m. Jacob 
Bollinger. 

VI. Daniel Fahnestock (Diedrick), b. 
1739 in Cocalico township, Lancaster county. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



101 



Pa.; m., first, in 1773, Ellen Lustin, and they 
had issue : 

16. i. Daniel, b. February 23, 1774; in. 

Elizabeth Rider. 

17. it. William, b. 1776; m. Esther Rider. 
Hi. Mary, b. 1777; m. Joseph Hallopter. 
iv. Sarah,h. 1778; rn. Andrew Trummus. 

v. Esther, b. April 13, 1779 ; d. April 18, 
1855 ; m. Frederick Rider. 
Daniel Fahnestock m., secondly, Catharine 
Rider, and had issue : 

vi. Margaret, rn. Daniel Bollinger. 
vii. Barbara, 
viii. Frederick, 
ix. Eleanor, d. August 22, 1840; m. M. 

Boyer. 
x. Joseph, d. s. p. 

VII. Benjamin Fahnestock (Diedrick), 
b. May 2, 1747, in Cocalico township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa.; d. February 27, 1820, in 
Adams county, Pa.; m., 1st, October 9, 1770, 
Catharine Garber, b. February 26, 1750; d. 
July 17, 1793. They had issue : 

18. i. George, b. September 7, 1772 ; in., 1st, 

Mary Aughenbaugh ; 2d, Barbara 
Fisher. 

19. ii. John, b. July 3, 1774; m. Catharine 

Wallich. 
Hi. Margaret, b. May 19, 1776. 

20. iv. Henry, b. April 22, 17,78; m. Catha- 

rine Latshaw. 

v. Esther, b. March 22, 1780. 

vi. Christiana, b. June 7, 1782 ; m., De- 
cember 19, 1802, Peter Aughen- 
baugh, of Adams county, Pa. 

21. vii. Peter, b. April 15, 1784; m. Mary 

Fahnestock. 

22. viii. Benjamin, b. August 18, 1787; m. 

Elizabeth L. Smith. 
ix. Emanuel, b. May 4, 1790 ; d. July 
14, 1791. 
Benjamin Fahnestock m., secondly, Chris- 
tiana Underwood ; and had issue : 

x. Joseba, b. July 10, 1796; d. May 11, 
1872 ; m. Dr. Bauman. 

VIII. Borius Fahnestock (Diedrick), b. 
May 9, 1749, in Cocalico township, Lancaster 
county, Pa.; d. January 9, 1820; m., Octo- 
ber 17, 1772, Elizabeth Enders, b. December, 
1752. They had issue: 

i. Salome, b. November 4, 1773; m. 
Jacob Fahnestock. 

23. ii. Diedrick, b. October 20, 1775; m. 

Sarah Deardorf. 
Hi. Samuel, b. August 22, 1777. 



iv. Joseba, b. January 14, 1780 ; m. Jacob 

Gardner. 
v. Elizabeth, b. April 3, 1782 ; m. Thomas 

Reed. 
vi. Mary, b. May 24, 1784 ; d. July 22, 

1866; ra. Peter Fahnestock. 
vii. Diana, b. January 16, 1787; ra. Jacob 

Housel. 
viii. Benjamin, b. May 13, 1790; m. Ann 
C. Clemens, and had Alexena-M., 
McAtee,and Elizabeth, m. G. Aughin- 
baugh. 
ix. Jacob, b. January 7, 1792. 
x. John, b. December 4, 1794. 
24. xi. Daniel- Enders, b. January 6, 1800; m. 
Mary Fahnestock. 

IX. Charles Fahnestock (Casper, Died- 
rick), b. February 1, 1761, in Cocalico town- 
ship, Lancaster county, Pa. ; d. January 16, 
1837, in Chester county, Pa. ; ra. Susan 
Smith, b. September 24, 1768; d. September 
14, 1814, in Chester county, Pa. They had 
issue : 

i. Catharine, b. January 29, 1787; d. 
April 23, 1867 ; m. Joseph Phillips. 
ii. John, b. August 23, 1788 ; d. Septem- 
ber, 1849, unm. 
Hi. Casper, b. November 12, 1789 ; d. March 
4, 1871 ; m. Jemima P. Morgan, 
and had issue: Charles-S., m. Jane 
E. Bowman; Edwin-F., Josephine, 
Casper-C.,m. Mary Jean Dean, John, 
Henry, Susan, Catharine, Jemima, 
and George-Mayer, m. Philena S. 
Thompson. 
iv. Mary, b. April 13, 1791; m. J. F. Stein- 
man. 
v. Charles, b. December 23, 1793 ; d. July, 

1820, unm. 
vi. Susanna, b. October 13, 1795 ; d. July, 

1832, unm. 
vii. Rebecca, b. November 4, 1797 ; d. 

March 14, 1827, unm. 
viii. Henry, b. October 18, 1798 ; d. Novem- 
ber 19, 1822, unm. 
ix. Esther, b. 1800 ; d. January 12, 1866 ; 

m. Ernmer Elton. 
x. Elizabeth, b. March 16, 1804 ; d. Au- 
gust 14, 1807. 
xi. Hannah, b. March 6, 1806 ; d. August 

27, 1826, unm. 
xii. William, b. March 21, 1808 ; m. Ann 
Elizabeth Earnest, and had issue. 
xiii. Edivin, b. 1810, d. s. p. 
xiv. Washington, b. 1812, d. s. p. 

X. Samuel Fahnestock (Peter, Diedrick) 



102 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



b. March 27, 1761, in Cocalico township, 
Lancaster county, Pa.; d. June 29, 1830 ; m., 
first, Hannah Studebaker, b. October 15, 
1755 ; d. October 13, 1825. They had issue: 
i. Elizabeth, b. July 6, 1785 ; d. Septem- 
ber 18, 1812. 
ii. Rebecca, b. January 12, 1787 ; m. 

Daniel Fundenberg. 
in. Peter, b. October 9, 1788 ; m., first, No- 
vember 19, 1819, Mary Kunkel ; 
secondly, Eliza C. Poe; thirdly, 
Caroline C. Geakle. 
iv. Samuel, b. March 11, 1791 ; d. s. p. 
v. Catharine, b. December 11, 1792; d. 
February 15, 1868 ; m. George 
Reeser. 
vi. George, b. November 26, 1795 ; d. Oc- 
tober 27, 1804. 
vii. Samuel, b. November 4, 1797 ; d. May 
13, 1869; m., first, Eliza Heiser; 
secondly, Mary Murray ; and left 
issue by both. 

XL Conrad Fahnestock (Peter, Died- 
rick), b. Julv 19, 1763, near Ephrata, Pa.; d. 
September 20, 1803, at Middletown, Dauphin 
county, Pa.; received a fair education at the 
German School, Ephrata, and learned the 
art of printing with the Brethren ; came to 
Harrisburg in 1791 and engaged with his 
brother Obed in merchandising ; subse- 
quently he entered into partnership with 
Benjamin Mayer in the publication of the 
Morgenrothe or " Dutch Aurora," as it was 
commonly called ; under the infamous alien 
and sedition act of the administration of the 
elder Adams, Messrs. Mayer & Fahnestock 
were arrested by United States officers and 
thrown into prison, but promptly released on 
bail; they were never tried. Shortly after- 
wards Mr. Fahnestock retired from the print- 
ing business and entered the mercantile trade 
at Middletown, where he died. The Oracle 
speaks of him as " an industrious, honest and 
valuable member of society." Mr. Fahne- 
stock m. Mary Hallacker. They had issue : 
i. Joseph, b. April 9, 1792 ; d. s. p. 
ii. Peter, b. June 9, 1793 ; d, February 6, 

1872, at Ephrata ; m. Salome Lan- 

dis, and had Susan, Samuel, m. 

Mary Bollinger, Conrad, John, m. 

Maria Bollinger, Mary, m. Adam 

Ream, and Reuben, m. Catharine 

Keller. 
Hi. Samuel, b. February 12, 1795 ; d. s. p. 
iv. Anna, b. May 31, 1800; m. Christian 

Bomberger. 



XII. Obed Fahnestock (Peter, Diedrick)> 
b. February 25, 1770, near Ephrata, Pa.; d- 
March 2, 1840, at Harrisburg, Pa.; was 
brought up to mercantile pursuits, and re- 
moved to Harrisburg about 1795, where he 
entered into business ; he seems to have 
been a man of considerable intelligence and 
prominence, as almost thirty years of his 
life were spent in office ; was coroner from 
November 3, 1802, to November 3, 1805; 
director of the poor from 1811 to 1813 ; one of 
the associate judges of the countv from No- 
vember 12, 1813, to July 30, 1818^ appointed 
by Governor Snyder, when, owing to his dis- 
like of Samuel D. Franks, who had been 
appointed president judge of the courts, he 
resigned ; was burgess of the borough 1820 
and 1821, frequently a member of the coun- 
cil, and served as prothonotary from Janu- 
ary 17, 1824, to January 29, 1830. Judge 
Fahnestock m., April 19, 1796, Anna Maria 
Gessell, b. January 9, 1777, at Brickersville 
Lancaster county, Pa.; d. December 3, 1847 
at Harrisburg, Pa. They had issue : 

i. Harris- Charles, b. April 26, 1797; d 
May 24, 1845. 

ii. Hannah, b. December 21, 1799; d 
February 12, 1872; m., in 1824,1st 
James A. Mahany ; 2d, in 1845 
James Wallace Weir. 
in. William-Morrell, b. April 10, 1802 ; d 
December 15, 1854; m. Sarah Ann 
Magee, b. July 18, 1805 ; d. Decern 
ber 2, 1868; and had issue. 

iv. Dorothy, b. July 12, 1806; d. s. p. 

25. v. Adam-Konigmacher, b. July 12, 1806 

m., 1st, Sybil T. Holbrook; m., 2d 

Mrs. Mary Jacobs; 3d, Elizabeth 

C. Affner. 
vi. Maria- Matilda, b. December 15, 1808 

m. John Andrew Weir. 
vii. Amelia- Snyder, b. April 15, 1813 ; d. s.'p 

26. mi?'. Walter- Franklin, b. September 13 

1815; m. Louisa C. Heisely. 
ix. Simon-Snyder, b. September 11, 1819 
d. June 19, 1876; m. Caroline Jen- 
nings, b. May 31,1826; and had 
Fanny. 

XIII. Samuel Fahnestock (Diedrick, 
Diedrick), b. March 16, 1764, near Ephrata, 
Pa.; d. December 8, 1836, at Lancaster, Pa.; 
m. Rebecca Baker, b. September 28,1770; 
d. October 25, 1862. They had issue: 

i. Sarah, b. June 29, 1789. 
ii. Diedrick, b. August 28, 1790; d. June 
9, 1860. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



103 



Hi. Mary, b. December 20, 1791; d. March 
17, 1876; m. D. E. Fahnestock. 

iv. Esther, b. July 3, 1793; d. February 

20, 1877; m. James Hueston. 
v. George, b. December 2, 1795; d. Feb- 
ruary 21, 1870, at Philadelphia; m. 
Catharine S. Cox, and had Arnold- 
Baker ; Eliza, m. Joseph Stoddard; 
Mary-Ann, m. Henry Stoddard; 
Return-E., Susan, m. F. Lasher; 
Emma, m., first, Isaac Ellmaker; 
secondly, Dr. H. A. Fahnestock; 
Catharine, George, Elizabeth-Bates, 
Louisa, m. Joseph Juel, and Marga- 
ret, m. Clarence Nouse. 

vi. William-B., b. October 13, 1801; m. 
Maria Reigard, and had issue. 

XIV. Jacob Fahnestock (John, Diedrick), 
b. December 5, 1769, in Cocalico township, 
Lancaster county, Pa. ; d. May 31, 1812, at 
Pittsburgh, Pa.; m. Salome Fahnestock, b. 
November 4, 1772. They had issue: 

i. Elizabeth, b. July 29, 1793 ; m., first, 
Thomas Tucker ; secondly, Sebas- 
tian Hofer. 

ii. Samuel, b. March 11, 1796 ; m. Susan 
Baugher, b. December 10, 1795 ; 
d. November, 1877, and had issue. 

Hi. Borius, b. August 21, 1798 ; d. August 
20, 1876; m. Sarah Warn pier, b. 
November 17, 1797; d. August 15, 
1869, and had issue. 

iv. Jacob, b. January 26, 1801 ; d. Sep- 
tember 9, 1841, at Glasford, 111. ; 
m., November 11, 1824, Maria Har- 
mon, b. May 16, 1806, and had 
issue. 

v. William, b. December 21, 1803. 

vi. John, b. August 21, 1806. 
vii. Rebecca, b. Juhy 8, 1809 ; m. Rev. 

Frederick Vandersloot. 
viii. Salome, b. January 31, 1813 ; m. 
James S. Fink. 

XV. Harvey Fahnestock (John, Died- 
rick), b. March 6, 1772, in Cocalico township, 
Lancaster county, Pa.; d. November 22, 1831, 
at Pittsburgh, Pa.; m. Elizabeth Brindle. 
They had issue : 

i. Abner-H., b. October 17, 1798 ; d. May 
4, 1866, at Alton, III; m., first, La- 
viuia McCarthy, b. February 6, 
1802 ; d. March 1, 1834 ; m., sec- 
ondly, Matilda Brewer, and had 
issue by both. 
ii. Elizabeth, b. March 29,1803; m. Solo- 
mon Brand. 



Hi. Franklin-B., b. November 6, 1805 ; m. 
Elizabeth Repore; resided atMuncy, 
Pa. 

iv. Henry-W., b. March 8, 1813; m., first, 
Mary DeHuff; secondlv, Marie J. 
Hall; thirdly, Mary P. Bigley ; 
fourthly, Margaret J.Matthew, and 
had issue by first and second wives ; 
resided at Salem, O. 

v. Rebecca-K., b. April 8, 1814; m. Jus- 
tice A. Ward. 

XVI. Daniel Fahnestock (Daniel, Died- 
rick), b. February 23, 1774; m. Elizabeth 
Rider, b. 1780; d. October 25, 1829. They 
had issue : 

i. Margaret, b. December 16, 1800 ; m. 
Abraham Garrell. 

ii. William, b. November 24, 1802 ; d. 
November 22, 1877; m. Barbara 
Hollopter, b. August 11, 1810, and 
had issue. 

Hi. Daniel, b. June 30, 1805 ; d. June 26, 
1855 ; m. Mary McKaughton, and 
left issue. 

iv. Samuel, b. September 15, 1807 ; d. 

September 10, 1843. 
v. John, b. September 15, 1807. 

vi. Elizabeth, b. May 15, 1810; m. Luke 
McDowell. 
vii. Ephraim, b. October 6,1812; m. Eliza 
Billingsley, b. 1816 ; d. 1872 ; and 
had issue. 
viii. Christiana, b. March 18,1815 ; m. Sam- 
uel Hollopter. 

ix. Ellen, b. July 6, 1817 ; d. August 20, 
1869 ; m. John Gram. 

X.Joseph, b. June 26, 1820; m. Mary 
Hollopter, b. 1822 ; d. 1851, at Cov- 
ington, Ky.; m., secondly, Lydia 
Bigler. 

xi. Benjamin, b. August 22, 1822 ; d. Jan- 
uary 14, 1854. 

XVII. William Fahnestock (Daniel, 
Diedrick), b. 1776 ; d. 1840 ; m. Esther Rider, 
b. 1770 ; d. 1848. They had issue : 

i. Mary, b. 1794; m. George Tyne. 

ii. Barbara, b. 1796 ; m. Joseph Latshaw. 

Hi. Daniel, b. 1798. 

iv. William, b. 1800 ; d. 1877, at Win- 
chester, Va.; m. Mary A. Sydle, b. 
1801 ; and had issue. 

v. Eleanor, b. 1802; m. D. Mumper. 

vi John, b. 1804; d. 1875; m. Christiana 

Kunkle, b. 1809 ; d. 1873. 
vii. Peter, b. August 20, 1807 ; d. Novem- 



104 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



ber 7, 1866 ; m. Rebecca Bender, b. 
July 1, 1814, and had issue. 
viii. Sarah, b. 1810; d. s. p. 

XVIII. George Fahnestock (Benjamin, 
Diedrick), b. September 7, 1772, in Cocalico 
township, Lancaster county, Pa.; d. Novem- 
ber 17, 1851 ; m., first, Mary Aughenbangh. 
They had issue : 

i. Elizabeth, b. April 20, 1797 ; d. July 

26, 1862 ; m. A. Dewing. 
ii. Benjamin, b. July 8, 1799 ; d. July 11, 
1862, at Philadelphia ; m., August 
9, 1822, Anna Mary Wolf, b. 1803, 
and had issue. 
Hi. John, b. August 1, 1801 ; d. s. p. 
iv. Barnett, b. January 19, 1804 ; d. s. p. 
v. Ephraim, b. December 2, 1805; d. s. p. 
George Fahnestock m., secondly, April 19, 
19, 1808, Mrs. Barbara Fisher, of Harris- 
burg ; no issue. 

XIX. John Fahnestock (Benjamin, Died- 
rick), b. July 3, 1774; d. December 2, 1842 ; 
m. Catharine Wallich, b. February 28, 1774: 
d. December 28, 1869. They had issue : 

i. Samuel, b. December 20, 1804 ; d. 

April 13, 1864; m. Elizabeth Hart- 

zel, b. December 7, 1807. 
ii. Benjamin-W., b. September 25, 1807; 

m. Annetta S. Haynes, of Newton, 

O.; and had issue. 
Hi. Margaret, b. September 25, 1809 ; m. 

J. Weidner. 
iv. William-Linn, b. September 30, 1813; 

m. Isabella Worley ; and had issue. 
v. James, b. April 30, 1816 ; m. Rachel 

A. Worley ; resided at Versailles, O. 

XX. Henry Fahnestock (Benjamin, 
Diedrick), b. April 22, 1778, in Cocalico 
township, Lancaster county, Pa. ; d. in 
Indiana ; m. Catharine Latshaw. They had 
issue : 

i. Christiana, b. June 17, 1802; m. Dr. 
O. Holmes. 

ii. Juliana, b. January 7, 1804 ; d. No- 
vember 15, 1871 ; unm. 
Hi. Jeremiah, b. May 11,1806; m., first, 
Mary Smith, b. July 7, 1805; d. 
March 13, 1844 ; m., secondly, Eliza 
Hamilton, b. March 3, 1813 ; re- 
sided at Herrman, 111. 

iv. Mary-Ann, b. September 6, 1808; m. 
D. McArthur. 

v. Benjamin- Latshaw, b. December 16, 
1810 ; m., first, Elizabeth Houpt ; 
secondly, Mary F. Fahnestock ; re- 
sided at Pittsburgh. 



vi. Catharine-M., b. February 29, 1813. 
vii. Henry-G., b. June 22, 1815. 
viii. Avarilla, b. September 5, 1818; m. S. 
Wickersham. 

XXI. Peter Fahnestock (Benjamin,Died- 
rick), b. April 15, 1784, near Ephrata, Pa. ; 
d. November 17, 1864, at Baltimore, Md. ; 
m. Mary Fahnestock, b. Mav 14, 1784 ; d. 
July 23, 1866, at Baltimore, Md. They had 
issue : 

i. Levi, b. September 3, 1807 ; d. July 

20, 1854 ; m. Sarah Fahnestock. 
ii. Elizabeth, b. December 4, 1809 ; d. 

December 3, 1869; unm. 
Hi. Benjamin, b. December 5, 1811 ; d. 

s. p. 
iv. Mary-F., b. May 25, 1813. 
v. Catharine, b. February 14, 1816. 
vi. Joseba, b. December 7, 1817 ; d. Au- 
gust 5, 1849 ; m. Frederick Haut. 
vii. Derick, b. July 25, 1821 ; m. Lucinda 

Fahnestock. 
viii. Joseph-D., b. November 25, 1824 ; d. 
June 19, 1863. 

XXII. Benjamin Fahnestock (Benjamin, 
Diedrick), b. August 18, 1787 ; d. September 
4, 1842, at Chambersburg, Pa.; m., January 
11, 1815, Elizabeth L. Smith, b. June 19, 
1792 ; d. August 8, 1868. They had issue : 

i. Anna-Mary, b. October 25, 1815; m. 

November 20, 1846. 
ii. Alexander, b. May 26, 1817. 
Hi. Daniel-Smith, b. October 22, 1818 ; d. 
November 10, 1877, at Chambers- 
burg, Pa. ; m. Rebecca M. Koons. 
iv. Catharine-Li., b. July 11, 1820; m. G. 

W. Heagy. 
v. Elizabeth, b. September 4, 1821. 
vi. Augustus-B., b. July 3, 1823 ; m. Eliza 

Nicholas, and had issue. 
vii. Matilda-N., b. July 22, 1825 ; m. John 

Stoner. 
viii. William-Henry, b. October 4, 1828. 
ix. Sarah- Ann, b. October 13, 1831 ; d.s. p. 

XXIII. Diedrick Fahnestock (Borius, 
Diedrick), b. October 20, 1775, in Lancaster 
county, Pa.; d. February 3, 1824 ; m. Sarah 
Deardorf, b. February 1, 1777 ; d. September 
9,1864. They had issue: 

i. Elizabeth, b. December 15,1799; m. 

Lot Ensey. 
ii. Jessie, b. November 2, 1801 ; d. April 

16, 1862. 
in. Lewis, b. January 8, 1803; d. s. p. 
iv. Matilda, b. February 7, 1805 ; m. Dan- 
iel Kemp. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



105 



v. Alfred, b. February 7, 1807 ; m., first. 
Eleanor A. Stricter, b. April 5, 1813; 
d. September 20, 1869 ; m., secondly, 
Margaret D. Snyder, and had issue. 
Resided at Toledo, 0. 
iv. Christian-D., b. January 9, 1809; d. 
December 6, 1834; m. Priscilla A. 
Ay res. 
vii. Sarah- Ann, b. December 29, 1810; d. 

August 16, 1866; unm. 
viii. Joseph, b. October, 1812; d. s. p. 
ix. Franklin, b. October 13, 1813 ; d. Au- 
gust 20, 1869 ; m. Mary Ann Jacobs, 
and had issue. 

XXIV. Daniel Enders Fahnestock (Bo- 
nus, Diedrick), b. January 6,1800; d. Sep- 
tember 29, 1851 ; m. Mary Fahnestock, b. 
December 20, 1791 ; d. March 17, 1876. They 
had issue. 

i. Adam-Haughton, b. January 15, 1821 ; 
d. s. p. 

ii. Edward, b. January 1, 1822 ; m. Mar- 
tha W. Davis. 

Hi. Lucinda, b. December 31, 1S23 ; m. 
Derick Fahnestock. 

iv. Elizabeth- Mary, b. January 28, 1826 ; 
d. s. p. 

v. Charles-Barber, b. April 28,1828; m., 
July 29, 1851, Josephine Berkbart. 

to. Arthur- Augustus, b. January 30, 1830; 
d. November 28, 1860 ; m. Susan 
Davis, and had issue. 
vii. George-Washington, b. September 27, 
1832; m., December 14, 1858, Phoebe 
A. Pierce ; resides at Baltimore, Md. 

XXV. Adam Konigmacher Fahnestock 
(Obed, Peter, Diedrick), b. July 12, 1806, at 
Harrisburg, Pa., where he d. in 1890; 
was educated in the schools of that borough 
and at the academy at Lititz ; was brought 
up in mercantile pursuits, and for many 
years carried on brick-making extensively ; 
was also engaged in the hardware business 
about fifteen years, and in 1833 established a 
glue manufactory at Harrisburg, which he 
successfully carried on for several years. 
Mr. Fahnestock was thrice married ; m., first, 
in 1834, Svbil T. Holbrook, b. December 11, 
1811 ; d. January 18, 1851 . They had issue : 

i. Harris- C, b. February 27, 1835 ; a dis- 
tinguished banker, residing in the 
city of New York; m., October 16, 
1856, Margaret McKinley, daughter 
of Isaac Gibson McKinley, and 
they had issue : 

1. William, b. September 2, 1857. 



2. Gibson, b. Februarv 21, 1859. 

3. Margaret, b. April 13, 1867; d. 

s.p. 

4. Harris, b. September 21, 1869. 

5. Helen, b. April 24, 1872. 

6. Clarence, b. December 4, 1873. 

7. Earnest, b. January 27, 1876. 
ii. Holbrook, b. September 6, 1836 ; d. 

December 31, 1838. 
Hi. A.- Morris, b. January 28, 1838; m., 
first, February 18, 1866, Sallie 
Webb, b. March 21, 1846; d. Oc- 
tober 2, 1871, and had issue : 

1. Harris- Webb, b. March 6, 1867. 

2. Richie-Thomas,b, Apr. 15, 1868. 

3. Edward-Morris, b. September 

6, 1871. 
He m., secondly, Rebecca B. Thomp- 
son, b. January 19, 1848, and they 
had issue: 

4. Maria-Bland, b. November 28, 

1873. 
iv. James, b. October 3, 1839; d. March 

17, 1858. 
v. Sybil-Amelia, b. January 1, 1842 ; m. 
T. H. Hubbard, of New York city, 
and had issue. 
to". Charles- A., b. April 17, 1844. 
vii. Wallace- Weir, b. January 18, 1846; 
m., October 12, 1871, Mary K. Nut- 
ting, and had Edith, Wallace, and 
Arthur- Knight, 
viii. Louis-F., b. August 26, 1848 ; m., Oc- 
tober 21, 1873, Grace Zeigler, b. 
November 1, 1850, and had Louis 
and Adam-Bruce. 
Mr. Fahnestock m., secondly, 1855, Mrs. 
Mary Jacobs, b. July 6, 1805 ; d. February 7 
1857 ; m, thirdly, 1869, Elizabeth C. Affner, 
b. June 6, 1821. 

XXVI. Walter Franklin Fahnestock 
(Obed, Peter, Diedrick), b. September 13, 
1815 ; d. 1893 at Harrisburg, Pa.; m., March 
19, 1839, Louisa C. Heisely, b. December 24, 
1817, daughter of George J. Heisely, and 
they had issue : 

i. Hannah- Mahany,b. May 19,1840; m. 
John C. Harvey, and they had 
issue. 
ii. Louisa-C, b. August 3, 1842. 
Hi. Walter-Franklin, b. October 8, 1844 ; 

d. May 19, 1879. 
iv. George, b. October 3, 1846 ; d. July 

19, 1869. 
v. Harry-C, b. April 12, 1849; d. Janu- 
ary 10, 1851. 



106 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



vi. William-M., b. February 3, 1851 ; m., 

June 19, 1819, Carrie Achenbach, 

and bad John-Harvey, 
vii. Alice-E., b. November 18, 1852; d. 

November 26, 1856. 
viii. Anna-M., b. November 19, 1855 ; d. 

June 26, 1862. 
ix. Frank-G., b. September 29, 1857. 
x. James- Weir, b. September 29, 1859. 
xi. Edward-E., b. May 5, 1862 ; d. May 

23-, 1862. 



The Fetterhoff Family. 

I. Frederick Fetterhoff, b. August 6, 
1765, in now Lancaster county, Pa., where 
his parents were early settlers; d. July 16, 
1837, in Jackson township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. He removed with his family to then 
Halifax township in 1803; m. Susanna 
Heckerd, b. June 25, 1768; d. June 28, 1831, 
in Jackson township, and with most of his 
family buried in the Fetterhoff church grave- 
yard." They had issue, besides three chil- 
dren died young : 

2. i. Philip, b. September 2, 1788 ; m. Eve 

Boyer. 

3. ii. John, b. October 12, 1790 ; m., first, 

Elizabeth Snyder; secondly, Katha- 
rine Harris. 

4. Hi. George,b. May 3, 1795 ; m. Mary Zim- 

merman. 

II. Philip Fetterhoff (Frederick), b. 
September 2, 1788, in Lancaster county, Pa.; 
d. September 4, 1833, in Jackson township, 
Dauphin county, Pa.; m. Eve Boyer, b. June 
27, 1792 ; d. January 11, 1839. They had 
issue: 

i.John, b. July 19, 1812; resided at 

Fisherville. 
ii. Susanna, b. July 20, 1813 ; m. Henry 

Willvert. 
Hi. Elizabeth, b. November 19, 1815 ; d. 

June 7, 1860; m. John Faber. 
iv. Polly, b. 1817 ; m. Henry Hoover. 

III. John Fetterhoff (Frederick), b. 
October 12, 1790, in Lancaster county, Pa.; 
d. June 27, 1829, in Jackson township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa.; m., first, Elizabeth Snyder, 
and there was issue : 

i. Susanna, b. March 23, 1814 ; m. 
George Enders. 
He m.. secondly, Katharine Haines, b. June 
18,1791'; d. December 6, 1862; and there 
was issue : 



ii. H Elmira, b. January 15, 1817 ; 

d. March 30, 1875; m., December 
10, 1835, John Shepley. 

IV. George Fetterhoff (Frederick), b. 
May, 3, 1795, in Lancaster county, Pa.; d. 
March 16, 1862, in Jackson township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa.; m. Mary Zimmerman, b. 
March 5, 1798 ; d. August 1, 1863; daughter 
of Christian Zimmerman. They had issue: 
i. Joseph, b. April, 1816. 
ii. Catharine, b. October, 1819. 
Hi. Samuel, b. February 26, 1821 ; d. Feb- 
ruary 26, 1866. 
iv. Mary, b. April 7, 1828 ; d. October 14, 

1877. 
v. Philip, b. November 3, 1825. 
vi. Susanna, b. 1827. 
vii. Margaret, b. 1830. 
viii. Abby, b. April 28, 1833. 



Fox Family of Derry. 

I. John Fox, a native of the county Dev- 
onshire, England, where he was born in the 
year 1751, came to America when a young 
man, and settled first at Germantown in the 
Province of Pennsylvania. There he mar- 
ried Anna Margaret Rupert, b. December 
14, 1756, in Holland. Shortly after, in 
1799, they settled in what was then London- 
derry township, Lancaster county, in the 
neighborhood of Hummelstown. Mr. Fox 
died April 25, 1816, and his wife on the 21st 
of October, 1838. Both were interred in the 
Lutheran churchyard at Hummelstown. 
They had issue: 

2. i. John, b. June 10, 1780 ; m. Sarah 

Shonberger. 

3. ii. Margaret, b. 1782 ; m. John Phillips. 

4. Hi. Tliomas, b. November 4, 1786 ; m. 

Barbara Baum. 

5. iv. George, b. December 17, 1788 ; m. 

Elizabeth Eshenauer. 

6. v. James, b. 1794 ; m. Sophia Bayle. 
vi. Richard, b. February 9, 1799, in Lon- 
donderry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa.; d. July 1, 1827 ; m. 
Rachel Hummel, b. November 24, 
1799; d. September 27, 1867; 
daughter of Frederick Hummel 
and Rachel Eckert ; no issue. 

II. John Fox (John), b. June 10, 1780, in 
then Londonderry township, Lancaster 
county, Pa.; d. July 19, 1853. He was edu- 
cated in the country schools of the neigh- 




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DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



109 



borhood, and a farmer by occupation. He 
became quite prominent and influential in 
the political affairs of the county, and served 
as a member of the House of Representatives 
of Pennsylvania from 1831 to 1833. He 
filled the office of sheriff from October 14, 
1833, to October 21, 1836, and again from 
Ociober 19, 1839, to October 24, 1842. Apart 
from these positions of trust and -honor, he 
served his neighbors in the various town- 
ship offices with fidelity. He was a repre- 
sentative man, not only of his family but of 
the county, a faithful officer, of strict iuteg- 
ritj*, upright and conscientious in all his 
relations with his fellow citizens. Mr. Fox 
m., November 29, 1804, Sarah Shonberger, 
b. November 4, 1785; d. October 8, 1866. 
They had issue: 

i. John, b. 1805. 

ii. Liberty, b. 1807 ; m. Mary Ann Hag- 
gerty, of Philadelphia, b. Novem- 
ber 29, 1817 ; d. May 26, 1857, and 
had one son. 
iii. Margaret, b. 1809 ; m. Henry Orth. 

III. Margaret Fox (John), b. 1782, 
in then Londonderry township, Lancaster 
county, Pa.; d. at Hummelstown, Pa. She 
m., August 20, 1807, John Phillips, b. Feb- 
ruary 19, 1786; d. July 11, 1855, at Hum- 
melstown, Pa., and with his wife there 
buried. He was a gentleman of erudition, 
an eminent school teacher, and of consid- 
erable prominence. They had issue (sur- 
name Phillips): 
i. Horace. 

ii. Mary. 
iii. John. 

iv. Harriet. 

v. Margaret. 

IV Thomas Fox (John), b. November 4, 
1786, near Hummelstown, Dauphin county, 
Pa. ; d. there October 25, 1824. He m., Feb- 
ruary 4, 1808, Barbara Baum, b. January 8, 
1780, in then Londonderry township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa.; d. January 3, 1833; 
daughter of Daniel Baum and his wife 
Catharine Fishburn. They had issue: 
i. Catharine, d. s. p. 
ii. Alfred, d. s. p. 
iii. Louisa, d. s. p. 

iv. Margaret, b. 1814 ; m. Dr. Adam Shel- 
lar, b. January, 1808 ; d. November, 
1882; son of Christian and Margaret 
Shellar, of Rapho township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa. ; studied medi- 
cine with Dr. Henderson, of Hum- 



melstown, and graduated from the 
Reform Medical College at New 
York in 1830 ; located in Mt. Joy ; 
was highly esteemed by the profes- 
sion and secured an extensive prac- 
tice. 

v. Thomas- Evans, b. July 2, 1816 ; d. 
March 3, 1851 ; m. Mary L. Ricker, 
adopted daughter of Frederick 
Ricker, b. 1821; d. February 9, 
1868, and had issue. 

vi. John-Michael, b. 1818 ; m. Harriet 
Carson, and had issue. 

V. George Fox (John), b. December 17, 
1788, in then Londonderry township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa.; d. August 25, 1855. He m. 
Elizabeth Eshenauer, b. December 3, 1794; 
d. April 8, 1862 ; daughter of Caspar and 
Mary Eshenauer. They had issue : 

7. i. Richard, in., first, Anna Patten ; 

secondly, Adelaide Hynicka. 

8. ii. John-E., in., first, Mary Boggs; sec- 

ondly, Caroline Boggs. 
iii. George, d. s. p. 

iv. James, b. 1820 ; d. February 28, 1858. 
v. Abner, m. Louisa Shepherd. 

9. vi. Thomas- George, m. Diana Hershey. 

VI. James Fox (John), b. 1794, in 
then Londonderry township, Dauphin 
count}', Pa.; d. September 25, 1843, in Hum- 
melstown, Pa. He m. Sophia Bayle, b. 
1804; d. March 6, 1844, in Hummelstown, 
Pa. They had issue: 

i. William. 

ii. Margaret, m. Michael Longenecker. 
iii. John-Thomas, 
iv. Ann, m. John H. Hummel. 

VII. Richard Fox (George, John). Mr. 
Fox was twice married; m., first, Anna 
Patton. They had issue : 

■i. William, 
ii. George. 
He m., secondly, Adelaide Hynicka, 
daughter of Christopher Coal Hynicka and 
Mary Ann Rohm. They had issue: 
i. Anna, 
ii. May. 
iii. Richard- V. 
iv. Elizabeth. 

VIII. John E. Fox (George, John), b. 
in Hummelstown, Pa.; d. February 17, 1880, 
in Philadelphia. He was a native of Hum- 
melstown, Dauphin county, Pa., and was 
educated at the Gettysburg College. He 
went to Philadelphia when a young man. 



110 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



and was a clerk in the office of the Eagle 
Transportation and Railroad Line, at Eighth 
and Market streets. In 1843 he commenced 
business as a stock broker on Third street, 
below Market, and remained in the same 
neighborhood until the time of his death. 
A daughter became the wife of John H. 
Weiss, of Harrisburg. 

IX. Thomas George Fox (George, John), 
m. and had issue : 

i. L)r. L.- Webster, who graduated at Jef- 
ferson Medical College, Philadel- 
phia, and completed his medical 
studies in Berlin, Vienna, and Lon- 
don. 
ii. Elizabeth. 

Hi. James-G., married Emma Strickler. 
iv. John-E. 
v. Ada. 
vi. Mary, 
vii. Caroline, 
viii. George-H. 



Geddes, of Derry. 

I. James Geddes, born the year 1704, 
near Randallstown, county Antrim, Ireland, 
emigrated to America, landing in August, 
1752, with his wife Margaret and three sons. 
He died in 1764 ; and his wi f e, born in 1699, 
died 1783 ; and with her husband lies buried 
in old Derry church graveyard. They had 
issue : 

i. Paul, b. 1732, in Ireland ; d. May 25, 
1814, in Northumberland Pa. ; he 
removed to what was subsequently 
Turbut township, now Chillisqua- 
que township, that county, about 
1765 ; was quite active during the 
Revolution, and a member of the 
Committee of Safety for Northum- 
berland. 
2. ii. William, b. 1735; m. Sarah McCallen. 
Hi. Samuel, b. 1739, in Ireland ; d. in 1788. 

II. William Geddes (James), b. 1735 in 
Ireland ; came to America with his father's 
family in 1752 ; his farm was located six 
miles west of Harrisburg in Cumberland 
county, on which he died in 1789. He mar- 
ried Sarah McCallen, daughter of John and 
Sarah McCallen, b. in 1733; d. 1773, in Lon- 
donderry township; both buried in Derry 
churchyard. They had issue: 

i. James, b. July 22, 1763 ; d. August 19, 



1838, in Onondago county, N. Y., 
where he resided and left a family. 

ii. Margaret, b. December 31, 1764; d. 
in 1818, near Fannettsburg, Frank- 
lin county, Pa. 

Hi. John, b. August 16, 1766 ; d. Decem- 
ber 5, 1840, near Newville, Cumber- 
land county, Pa. 

iv. Paid, b. June 9, 1768 ; d. October 22, 
1832, in Path Valley, Franklin 
county, Pa., where he resided and 
left a family. 

3. v.Robert, b. September 30, 1771; m., 

first, Jane Sawyer; secondly, Mrs. 
Martha McClure. 

III. Robert Geddes (William, James), b. 
September 30, 1771, in Londonderry town- 
ship, then Lancaster county, Pa. He inher- 
ited the farm of his mother's brother, Robert 
McCallen, situated near Campbellstown, 
Lebanon county, Pa. He died July 14, 
1832, and is buried in the grave of his grand- 
mother, Sarah McCallen, in Derry church- 
yard. He m., first, March 2, 1797, by Rev. 
James R. Sharon, Jane Sawyer, daughter of 
John Sawyer, b. May 25, 1770 ; d. November 
29, 1803. They had issue: 

i. Robert, b. December 11, 1797 ; d. 

March 11, 1866. 
ii. Sarah, b. July 10, 1799 ; d. 'August 
25, 1819. 

4. Hi. John, b. March 19, 1801 ; resided in 

Ypsilanti, Mich. 
iv. William, b. December 28, 1802; d. 
May 21, 1877; removed in 1844 
from Pennsylvania to Michigan, 
where he died. 
v. Jane, b. August, 1804 ; d. February 8, 

1882. 
vi. Isabella, b. September 17, 1806 ; d. 
November 21, 1834. 
Robert Geddes m., secondly, March 22, 
1810, Mrs. Martha McClure, and they had 
issue : 

vii. James, b. December 12, 1810 ; m. and 

resided near Decatur, Macon county, 

111. 

viii. Thomas, b. September 10, 1812; d. 

May 6, 1837. 

ix. Agrippa, b. September 31, 1814 ; d. 

December 25, 1849. 
x. Anna, b. July, 1818. 

IV. John Geddes (Robert, William, 
James), b. March 19, 1801, in now London- 
derry township, Lebanon county, Pa. In 
company with his brother Robert, he left 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Ill 



Pennsylvania April 19, 1825, arriving in 
Ann Harbor, Mich., May 11, 1825. John 
resided at Ypsilanti, Mich. He m., first, 
April 6, 1837, Fanny Savage; b. February 
19,1806, in Orange county, N. Y.; d. Decem- 
ber 6, 1855, and there was issue : 
i. John, d. s. p. 
ii. Sarah, m. and had two sons and three 

daughters. 
Hi. Rachel, m., but had no children. 
John Geddes m., secondly, Julia Ettie 
Savage, a sister to his first wife, b. July 22, 
1800 ; d. August 18, 1883. 



The Geiger Family. 

I. Barnhart (or Bernard) Geiger, Sr., 
was born in 1748. His ancestors were 
Brandenburgers and lived at Frankford on 
Oder. His father and brothers were in the 
military service, several of , whom fell at 
Zorndorf. Bernard was a conscript in King 
Frederick's army and served seven years, 
but ran away to escape the barbaritj' of the 
discipline of the Prussian service, and 
reached America in 1773. He entered the 
American army in 1776, and participated in 
the battles of Monmouth, Brandywine, Ger- 
mantown, and several minor skirmishes, be- 
ing mustered out of service in 1779. At the 
close of the Revolution he removed to Reams- 
town, Lancaster county, Pa., from whence 
he came to Harrisburg in April, 1788. There 
he engaged in blacksmithing. He was one 
of the founders of the Lutheran Church at 
that place, and an enterprising citizen. He 
died July 16, 1811. Mr. Geiger married, in 
1779, Mary Smith, a native of Darmstadt, in 
Hesse. She died at Harrisburg, July 19, 
1840. They had issue, all save the youngest 
born at Reamstown : 
2. i. John, b. February 18, 1780 ; m. Mary 
Shoch. 
ii. George, b. April 21, 1782; d. Septem- 
ber 6, 1853, at Harrisburg; learned 
the trade of a blacksmith with his 
father, and afterwards opened a 
store in Market Square, second 
door from the Harrisburg Bank, 
which he continued in partnership 
with his brothers Joseph and Ber- 
nard for many years. He died un- 
married. 
3. Hi. Joseph, b. December 27, 1784; m. 
Sarah Rupley. 
iv. Mary,b. 1786;" m. Michael Walters, 



of Limestone, Clarion county, Pa., 
nothing further is known of them. 
v.Susanna, b. December 3, 1787; d. 
March 30, 1820, at Orangeville, 
Columbia county, Pa.; m. Andrew 
Crouse. 

4. vi. Bernard, b. October 27, 1795; m. 

Charlotte Lewis. 

II. John Geiger (Bernard), b. February 
18, 1780, at Reamstown, Lancaster county, 
Pa.; d. July 11, 1864, at Harrisburg ; he was 
a prominent merchant there many years; m., 
in 1807, Mary Shoch, b. April 1," 1788; d. 
August 4, 1855 ; daughter of John Shoch 
and Salome Gilbert. They had issue: 

5. i. Sarah, b. October 31, 1808 ; m. James 

Wilson. 

6. ii. George, b. January 27, 1811 ; m. Re- 

becca McGrath. 
Hi. John-Bernard, b. November 30, 1812 ; 
d. July 24, 1825. 
7 iv. Mary-R., b. October 21, 1814; m. Israel 
Steel. 
v. Amanda- E., b. August 1, 1816; d. 
November 17, 1845, unm. 

8. vi. Joseph-H., b. November 11, 1817; m., 

first, Eliza Ingram ; m., secondly, 
Mary Stewart; thirdly, Sarah But- 
terfield. 
vii. Samuel-Shoch, b. June 7, 1819 ; d. Octo- 
ber 30, 1839. 

9. viii. Malvina-L., b. November 16, 1821 ; 

m. Samuel D. Ingram. 

III. Joseph Geiger (Bernard), b. Decem- 
ber 27, 1784, at Reamstown, Lancaster 
county, Pa. ; d. January 4, 1872, at Halifax, 
Pa. ; learned the trade of a blacksmith with 
his father, and subsequently became a mer- 
chant at Harrisburg. In 1821 removed to 
his farm on the site of old Fort Halifax, and 
in 1828 to the borough of Halifax, where he 
resided until his death. He married, Feb- 
ruary 15, 1819. Sarah Rupley, b. February 
16, 1801, in East Pennsboro' township, Cum- 
berland county, Pa. ; d. October 25, 1859, at 
Halifax, Pa. ; daughter of Jacob Rupley and 
Anna Maria Rupp. They had issue: 

i. Bernard, b. March 21, 1820 ; d. Sep- 
tember 3, 1820. 

10. ii. Hiram-Rupley, b. January 24, 1822, 

m. Elizabeth K. Blattenberger. 

11. Hi. Sarah- Louisa, b. September 5, 1826; 

m. Rev. William L. Gray. 
iv. Mary-Ellen, b. August 25, 1831 ; d. 

January 3, 1833. 
v. Rebecca-Emily, b. April 16, 1834 ; re- 



112 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



sided in the old homestead at Hali- 
fax. 

IV. Bernard Geigkr (Bernard), b. Octo- 
ber 27, 1795, at Harrisburg, Pa. ; d. May 30, 
1841; was a merchant at Harrisburg; m. 

- Charlotte Lewis, of Harrisburg, b. March 6, 
1805; d. November 19, 1832. They had 

1SSU6 '. 

i. Louisa,\>. 1828 ; d. March 2, 1849 ; m. 
Daniel Eppley, of Harrisburg, and 
had Minnie, b. August, 1847 : d. 
1867, at East Liberty, Pa. ; m. Wal- 
ter Fahnestock, of Pittsburgh. 

12. H. Annie- Maria, b. 3 830; m. David J. 

Unger. 

13. Hi. Charlotte-Elizabeth, b. 1833; m. Alex- 

ander Roberts. 

V. Sarah Geiger (John, Bernard), b. 
October 31, 1808, at Harrisburg, Pa.; d. Jan- 
uary 27, 1842 ; m., December 22, 1831, James 
Wilson, Jr., of Philadelphia. They had 
issue : 

i. John-Geiger, resides in Philadelphia. 
ii. James. 
Hi. Sarah-E., resides in Harrisburg. 

VI. George Geiger (John, Bernard), b. 
January 27, 1811, at Harrisburg, Pa.; was a 
merchant of Topeka, Kan.; m. Rebecca 
McGrath, of Martin's Ferry, Ohio. They 
had issue : 

i. John, d. s. p. 
ii. George, d. s. p. 

Hi. Mary, m. Lee, of Kansas City, 

Mo. 
iv. Fannie, m. Thomson, of To- 
peka, 
v. Malvina,m. Rodgers, of Topeka. 

VII. Mary R. Geiger (John, Bernard), b. 
October 21, 1814, at Harrisburg; d. January 
17, 1848; m., 1833, Israel Steel. They had 
issue * 

i. Annie-C, b. July 26, 1834; m. Elias 
J. Unger; reside at Pittsburgh, Pa. 

VIII. Joseph H. Geiger (John, Bernard), 
b. November 11, 1817, at Harrisburg, Pa.; 
removed to Columbus, 0.; was attorney gen- 
eral of that State, and then State librarian ; 
was thrice married; first, Eliza Ingram, of 
West Chester, Pa,, and there was issue : 

i. Eliza-Ingram, resides in Washington, 
D. C. 
He m., secondly, Mary Stewart, of Colum- 
bus, 0., and had : 

ii. Lydia-I., m. Milne, of West 

Virginia. 



Hi. Ruth. 
He m., thirdly, Sarah Butterfield, a native 
of New England. 

IX. Malvina L. Geiger (John, Bernard'), 
b. November 16, 1821, at Harrisburg, Pa.; re- 
sides at Harrisburg; m., January 1, 1843, 
Samuel D. Ingram, and had issue : 

i. John-Geiger, b. October 21, 1843, at 
Harrisburg, Pa.; d. October 8, 1877 ; 
was for several years attached to 
the reportorial staff at the capital of 
the State, and local editor of the 
Telegmph. "Affable in his manners, 
gentlemanly in his bearing, scrupu- 
lously truthful in his official ca- 
pacit)', he won during his brief ca- 
reer as a journalist the warm ad- 
miration of a host of friends." Mr. 
Ingram m. Clara V. Kosure, and left 
one son. 

X. Hiram Rupley Geiger (Joseph, Ber- 
nard)^. January 24, 1822, near Halifax, Pa.; 
drowned in the Juniata, near Lewistown, Pa., 
June 29, 1849 ; m., January 20, 1846, Eliza- 
beth K. Blattenberger, b. September 4, 1826, 
at Mt. Patrick, Perry county, Pa. They had 
issue : 

i. George, b. December 16, 1846, at Liver- 
pool, Perry county, Pa.; entered the 
United States army (regulars) dur- 
ing the rebellion, and rose to the 
rank of captain of infantry ; was 
killed in the charge on the fort at 
Blakely Landing near Mobile, Ala., 
April 9, 1865. 

XI. Sarah Louisa Geiger (Joseph, Ber- 
nard), b. September 5, 1826, near Halifax. 
Dauphin county, Pa.; m. Rev. William L 
Gray, b. November 8, 1821, in Cumberland 
county, N. J.; son of George Frederick Gray 
and Martha Smith; a member of the Phila- 
delphia Conference of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church, and now (1883) stationed at First 
M. E. church, Norristown, Pa. They had 
issue : 

i. Hiram- Geiger, b. June 16, 1845, at 
Fort Hunter, Dauphin countv, Pa.; 
d. December 16, 1865, at Philadel- 
phia. 
ii. William- Bowen, b. November 11, 1847, 
at Georgetown X Roads (now Ga- 
lena), Kent county, Md.; resides at 
Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa. 

Hi. Joseph-Downing, b. March 22, 1849, at 
Galena, Kent county, Md. 

iv. Charles- Brindle, b. February 15, 1851, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



113 



at Fulton House, Lancaster county, 
Pa. 
v. Sarah-Martha, b. December 1, 1852, at 
Philadelphia ; d. March 18, 1878, at 
Easton, Pa. 
vi. Harriet- Rebecca, b. April 13, 1855, at 

Milford, Pa. 
vii. John-Milne, b. October 3, 1857, at 

Pottsville, Pa. 
viii. Robert- Chamberlain, b. October 18, 
1859, at Manayunk, Pa. 
ix. George-Edward, b. April 28, 1863, at 
Manayunk, Pa.; d. March 3, 1865, 
at Reading. 

XII. Annie Maria Geiger (Bernard, 
Bernard), b. 1830, at Harrisburg, Pa.; d. 
December 12,1862; m., in 1848, David J. 
Unger; was a merchant at Harrisburg; was 
lieutenant of the Cameron Guards and 
served in the war with Mexico. They had 
issue: 

i. Charlotte, d. s. p. 
ii. George, d. s. p. 
Hi. John-Kunkel, d. s. p. 

XIII. Charlotte Elizabeth Geiger 
(Bernard, Bernard), b. November 19, 1832, 
at Harrisburg; d. Ma} 7 2, 1863; m. Alexan- 
der Roberts, a civil engineer of Harrisburg; 
and they had issue : 

i. John-Bernard, 
ii. Alexander. 
Hi. James. 
iv. George. 



The Harris Family op Derry. 

Among the early settlers of this locality 
was William Harris, a native of England, 
and no doubt related to John Harris, the 
pioneer of Harris' Ferry. He settled on the 
Swatara one and one-half miles above Mid- 
dletown. He was born in 1701 and died on 
the 4th of April, 1754. His wife was Catha- 
rine Douglass, of the family of Sir Robert 
Douglass, of Scotland, born in 1709, dying 
August 7, 1780, aged 71 years. William 
Harris and his wife are buried in old Derry 
graveyard. The record of the children of 
these pioneers, as copied from an old Bible, 
marked " James Harris, his Book," reads as 
follows : 

2. " James Harris wass born the 16th of 
January, being Friday. 1739. 

" Sarah Harris wass born the 20th day of 
March, it being Saturday, 1741. 



" John Harris wass born November the 
20th, it being Friday, 1746. 

" William Harris wass born November the 
20th, it being Wednesday, 1749. 

" Mary Harris wass born July the 22d, it 
being Thursday, 1752." 

There appears to have been another entry 
in 1753, but it is illegible. As the youngest 
son, Robert, was born that year it was evi- 
dently his birth record. 

William Harris died the year after (1754). 
A distribution of his estate was not made, 
however, until 1763, when, on the 6th of 
September, the Orphans' Court, held at Lan- 
caster, directed the following : 

" To Catharine Harris, widow of the de- 
ceased, the interest of one-third, in lieu of 
her dower ; James, the eldest son, one-third 
as the remainder, or two shares ; while the 
other children — Sarah, John, Mary, and 
Robert — were to receive one share ; the 
dower to be divided among the same upon 
the decease of the widow. The personal 
property was also distributed in the same 
proportion, and their uncle James Harris, 
was appointed guardian of Robert, Mary, 
and John. 

Robert Harris, the youngest child, studied 
medicine and served as a surgeon of the 
Pennsylvania Line during the Revolution. 
He was a valuable officer and highty es- 
teemed by his confreres in that glorious 
struggle. Dr. Harris died of quinsy at the 
house of John Phillips, inn-keeper, the sign 
of the Blue Ball, almost twenty miles west 
of Philadelphia, in Tredyffrin township, 
Chester county, on the night of the 4th of 
March, 1785. His will was written by An- 
drew Gordon, at his request, and is dated 
March 3, 1785, "recorded May 3, 1785, and 
remains in the register's office in Paxtang, 
Dauphin county." Letters of administra- 
tion with the will annexed were granted to 
Mary Harris, the wife of his brother James. 
Dr. Harris willed the interest of a part of 
his personal estate to his brother John Har- 
ris during his lifetime, and then the princi- 
ple to fall to Robert, son of James. His 
land (donation land), when surveyed, he 
allowed to Laird Harris, son of James. 
From a receipt still in existence, tombstones 
were purchased in Philadelphia, and as 
there are no records in the graveyard at 
Derry or Paxtang, the presumption is that 
he was interred at Tredyffrin. The papers 
of Dr. Harris, which would be of undoubted 
historic value, were burned by a member of 



114 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



the family some forty years ago, to prevent 
their falling into the hands of strangers. His 
medicine chest is in the possession of his 
grand-nephew, William L. Harris, of East 
Buffalo township, Union county. 

Of Sarah and Mary Harris, daughters of 
William, we have no record. 

II. James Harris, the eldest child, mar- 
ried, June 2, 1768, Mary Laird, daughter of 
William Laird and Catharine Spencer. She 
was born April 28. 1750 (O. S.), and died De- 
cember 13, 1842, and interred in the ceme- 
tery atLewisburg. James Harris died April 
30, 1787, and is buried at Derry. The chil- 
dren of James Harris and Mary Laird were 
as follows : 

i. William, b. Wednesday, April 28, 
1769; d. February 2, 1785, and 
buried at Derry. 

ii. Elizabeth, b. Thursday, July 18, 1770; 
d. May 20, 1842; m. Thomas 
Howard, d. January 15, 1842. 
Hi. Catharine, b. Thursday, April 2, 1772 ; 
d. December 28, 1784, and buried 
at Derry. 

iv. Jean, b. January 6, 1774 ; d. Decem- 
ber 5, 1839. 
v. Laird, b. Tuesday, February 22, 1776 ; 
d. June 30, 1804. 

vi. Robert, b. Sunday, November 22, 

1777 ; d. at Lewisburg. 
vii. Sarah, b. Saturday, September 4, 1779 
d. December 30, 1827, unm. 
S.viii. James, b. Wednesday, June 13, 1781 
m. Sarah Bell. 

ix. Matthew, b. Fridav, August 13, 1784 
d. February 1Z, 1873. 

x. William- Laird, b. Thursday, May 17, 
1786; d. November 11,1845;' was 
a member of the Pennsylvania As- 
semby in 1833, and of the Constitu- 
tional Convention 1837-8. 

James Harris took and subscribed the 
oath of allegiance and fidelity to the State 
and Colonies on the 14th day of July, 1777, 
before Joshua Elder, magistrate at Paxtang. 
He served in the army and was at the battles 
of Trenton, Princeton, Brandywine and 
Germantown. During the year 1778 he was 
in service with his wagon and team in the 
Jerseys. After his death his widow removed 
about 1792, to Buffalo Valley, then North- 
umberland and now Union county. 

III. James Harris (James, William), b. 
June 13, 1781, in Derry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa.; d. July 1, 1868, in Buffalo Val- 



ley, Union county, Pa.; m., October, 1819> 
Sarah Bell. They had issue : 
i. William-Laird, b. 1821. 
ii. James-Spencer, b. 1823. 
hi. Samuel-Bell, b. 1825. 
iv. Mary-Laird, b. 1827. 
v. Robert-Douglass, b. 1829. 
vi. Ann-Berryhill, b. 1831. 
vii. Sarah- Clementina, b. 1833. 
viii. Caroline-Douglass, b. 1835 ; d. 1864. 

ix. Berryhill-Bell, b. 1837. 
Of this family of Harris' none remain in 
this locality. Like their neighbors of a 
century and more ago, their descendants 
have sought new homes, while only the brief 
tombstone inscriptions in deserted grave- 
yards, and the mere mention of a name here 
and there on the old records, tell of the brave 
and hardy ancestry. 



The Hayes of Derry. 

Patrick Hayes, born in county Donegal, 
Ireland, in 1705, came to Pennsylvania in 
company with his brothers, Hugh, William, 
and James, about 1728, all of whom took up 
land in what is now- Derry township. On 
the assessment list for 1751 the name of 
James is wanting. He probably died prior 
to that period, while Hugh and William 
followed the Virginia and Carolina migra- 
tion of the few years subsequent. Patrick 
remained and died in Derry on the 31st of 

January, 1790. His wife, Jean , 

whom he married in 1729, died October 15, 
1792. Both are buried in old Derry church- 
yard. They had children as follows : 

i. David, b. 1731; m. Martha Wilson, 
daughter of James Wilson ; he in- 
herited what is now the Felty 
farm. 
ii. Robert,b. February 2, 1733 ; m., March 
25, 1762, Margaret Wray, of Derry; 
was an officer of the Revolution ; 
he inherited what is now the Long- 
necker farm ; he built his house in 
1762, and his stone barn in 1772; 
the latter was torn down in 1850. 
Robert and Margaret Hayes had — ■ 
Jean, b. 1763, d. 1817; John, b. 
1765, m. Margaret Gray ; Patrick, 
b. 1767, m. Mickey, of Cum- 
berland county; Margaret, b. 1769, 
m. William Thome, of Hanover; 
Robert, b. 1771, m., first, Jean 
Hayes, daughter of Capt. Patrick 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



115 



Hayes, and secondly, Hen- 
derson, of Shippensburg; David, b. 
1773, d. October 8, 1796 ; Samuel, b. 
1775,' d. unrn.; James, b. 1777, d. 
1798; William, b. 1779, removed 
to Virginia; Solomon, b. 1781, d. 
s. p.; Joseph, b. 1783, m. and went 
to Equality, 111. Robert Hayes d. 
June 6, 1809 ; his wife Margaret, 
January 6, 1820 ; aged 77 years. 

Hi. Eleanor, b. 1735 ; m., February 6, 
1755, Patrick Campbell, son of John 
Campbell, of Derry ; their daughter 
married the Rev. Joshua Williams. 

iv. William, b. 1737 ; m., October 6, 1767, 
Jean Taylor, and removed to Vir- 
ginia. 
v. Jean, b. 1739 ; m., October 31, 1765, 
William Scott. 

vi. Samuel, b. 1741 ; m. and removed to 
Virginia. 

mi. Patrick, b. 1743; m. McAl- 
lister, sister of Capt. Archibald Mc- 
Allister; was Capt. Patrick Hayes 
of the Revolution ; removed to Ly- 
coming county and died there about 
1812 ; he inherited the farm in 
Derry, now owned by Mr. Hershey. 



The Hershey Family. 

I. Andrew Hershey, b. 1702, in Switzer- 
land ; removed early in life with his parents 
to the Palatinate. In the year 1719 he and 
his brother Benjamin sailed for America and 
settled in Lancaster county, Pa. His brother 
Christian followed in 1739; and all three were 
chosen ministers in the Mennonite Church. 
Andrew Hershey died in 1792, aged ninety 
years. There was issue : 

i. Christian, b. 1734 ; d. January, 1783 ; 
m. Elizabeth .Hiestand, daughter of 
Abraham Hiestand, of Hempfield, 
Lancaster county, Pa. 
2. ii. Andrew, b. 1736 ; m., first, Magdalena 
Baughman ; secondly, Maria Acker. 
Hi. John. 

iv. Benjamin, d. prior to 1780, and had 
Elizabeth, m. Henry Landis, Benja- 
min, and Mary, 
v. Jacob, resided in Hempfield township; 
d. prior to 1767, at which time his 
children, Maria and Ann, were 
above fourteen years but not of age. 
vi. Abraham, 
vii. Isaac. 



viii. Henry. 
ix. Catharine, 
x. Maria, 
xi. Odti. 

II. Andrew Hershey (Andrew), b. 1736, 
in Lancaster county, Pa.; d. July 16, 1806 ; 
was twice married ; m. Magdalena Baugh- 
man ; d. prior to 1763 ; daughter of Michael 
Baughman, and had issue : 

i. Catharine, b. 1760. 
He m., secondly, Maria Acker, b. Septem- 
ber 26, 1743 ; d. September 13, 1831. They 
had issue : 

ii. Anna, b. February 28, 1762. 
Hi. Jacob, b. October 2, 1765. 
iv. Maria, b. May 23, 1768. 
3. v.Andrew, b. September 14, 1770; in. 
Esther Kauffman. 
vi. Henry, b. December 19, 1772. 
vii. Elizabeth, b. December 5, 1775. 
viii. John, b. March 31, 1783. 

III. Andrew Hershey (Andrew, An- 
drew), b. September 14, 1770; d. August 1, 
1835 ; m. Esther Kauffman, b. May 31, 1770; 
d. March 3, 1829. They had issue: 

i. Christian, b. December 22, 1796; d- 

September 5, 1834. 
ii. Anna, b. July 15, 1799. 
Hi. Andrew, b. January 15, 1802. 
iv. Maria, b. December 9, 1804. 
v. Catharine, b. January 15, 1809. 
to. Esther, b. September 11, 1811. 
vii. Barbara, b. December 9, 1814. 
viii. Elizabeth (twin), b. December 9, 1814. 
ix. John, b. March 14, 1815. 
x. Magdalena, b. March 20, 1821. 
In addition to the foregoing, which evi- 
dently refers to one branch of the family, we 
have the following : 

Benedict Hershey died prior to 1763, 
leaving a wife Judith, and children : 
i. Jacob, 
ii. Barbara. 
Hi. Andrew, 
iv. Peter, 
v. John, 
vi. Esther. 

Andrew Hershey, of Londonderry town- 
ship, Dauphin count}', died in 1792, leaving 
a wife, and children : 
i. Benjamin. 
ii. Henry. 

Hi. Christian, of Manor township. 
iv. Andrew, of Donegal township. 
v. John, m. Magdalena . 



116 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Hoffman Family of Lykens Valley. 

I. Among the earliest settlers of the Wico- 
nisco Valley was John Peter Hoffman, a na- 
tive of Germany, born in 1709. With others 
of his family and friends he came to Amer- 
ica in 1739, in the ship Robert and Alice, 
Capt. Walter Goodman, arriving at Phila- 
delphia in September of that year. He first 
located in Berks county, where he worked at 
his trade, that of a carpenter. During the 
early Indian troubles on the frontiers he 
served some time as a soldier in the Provin- 
cial forces. About the year 1750 he came to 
the end of Short mountain in Lyken's Val- 
ley, where he built a small log house, just 
across the road from the present residence 
of Daniel Romberger. Sixty years ago this 
was used as a blacksmith shop. John Peter 
Hoffman was the contemporary of Andrew 
and John Lycans or Lykens, Ludwig Shott, 
John Rewalt, and others, and with them 
driven off by the Indians in their marauds 
of 1756. It was subsequent to this period 
that he brought his family to the valley. 
Here he followed farming, and died in 1798 
at the age of eighty-nine years. His remains 
with those of his wife who had deceased pre- 
viously were interred in the field near the 
present house on the old farm now owned by 
Mr. Romberger, before named. He left issue, 
among others: 

i. Catherine, m. Andrew Reigle, the head 
of a large family of that name in 
the " Upper End." They both 
reached the age of four score years. 
ii. Barbara, m. George Buffington, a sol- 
dier of the Revolution, and the 
head of the family of that name. 
Hi. Elizabeth, m. Ludwig Sheetz, the head 
of the large family of that name. 

2. iv. John, b. 1746 ; m. Miss Kauffman. 

3. v. John- Nicholas, b. 1749 ; m. Margaret 

Harman. 

4. vi. Christian, b. 1752 ; m. Miss Deibler. 

II. John Hoffman (John-Peter), eldest 
son of John Peter Hoffman, was a native of 
Berks county, born in 1746. He served in 
the war of the Revolution, and commanded 
the Upper Paxtang company in its expe- 
dition up the West Branch in 1778, and 
participated in the battle at Muncy Hill. 
He resided near Hoffman's church, on the 
farm now owned by George Williard. He 
was a farmer, and served as a justice of the 
peace from 1771 until 1831, the year of his 
death. He and his wife, a Miss Kauffman, 



are buried in Hoffman's church graveyard. 
They had issue : 

i. Elizabeth, m. John Hoffman, a farmer. 
They resided near Hoffman's 
church, on the farm now owned by 
George Row. 
ii. Maria, m. Joseph Neagley, a farmer, 
who resided in the lower part of the 
valley. They had a large family, 
and lived to advanced ages. 
Hi. Magdalena, m. Thomas Koppenheffer. 
He was a captain in Col. Timothy 
Green's battalion, and was at the 
battle of Long Island. Mrs. Kop- 
penheffer lived to be over four 
score years of age. 
iv. Catharine, m. John Buffington, a 
farmer, who resided on the farm ' 
adjoining Robert Elder's, now 
owned by Jacob Hartman. Mr. 
Buffington was county commis- 
sioner from 1822 to 1824. 
v. Barbara, b. 1800 ; m. John N. Specht. 
Shed, in 1879. 

5. vi. John, m. Miss Deibler. 

vii. Jacob, married and removed to 
Schuylkill county, where some of 
his descendants yet reside. 

6. viii. Daniel, m. Miss Snyder. 

III. John Nicholas Hoffman (John- 
Peter), was born in Tulpehocken township, 
Berks county, in the year 1749. He settled 
on the farm now owned by Benjamin Rick- 
ert, near Short mountain. He was the 
owner of a large tract of land, at present 
divided into a number of farms. He deeded 
land to the congregation of Hoffman's 
church, for church, school and burial pur- 
poses. He was a soldier of the Revolution, 
and participated in the battles of Brandy- 
wine and Germantowri. His life was an 
active, busy and useful one. He was mar- 
ried, April 22, 1772, by Pastor Kurtz, of the 
Lutheran church, to Margaret Harman, also 
a native of Berks county. They had issue: 
i. Catharine, b. 1775; m. Peter Shoff- 
stall. They resided near Gratz- 
town, and died at advanced ages, 
leaving a large family. 
ii. Susarina, in. Levi Buffington, a car- 
penter. He built the Hoffman 
church. 
Hi. Sarah, m. Jonathan Snyder. They 
moved to Wayne county, Ohio, 
near Wooster, where they both 
lived to upwards of ninet}' years of 
their son Daniel resides there. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



117 



iv. Margaret, m. Alexander Klinger, and 
removed to Crawford county, Pa. 
She died a few years ago at the age 
of 98. 

7. v. Peter, b. September 22, 1778 ; m. Miss 

Lubold. 
to. Elizabeth,^. 1780; d. in Sugar Valley, 
over 91 years of age; m. Jacob 
Hawk. 

8. vii. Jacob, b. 1782 ; m. Catharine Ferree. 

9. viii. Daniel, b. 1784; m. Hannah Ferree. 

10. ix. Nicholas, b. 1790; m. 

11. x. John, b. 1794 ; m. 

xi. Oeorge,h. 1798; resided in Gratztown; 
was appointed justice of the peace 
in 1834. 

IV. Christian Hoffman (John-Peter), b. 

1752; resided on the old homestead at the 

end of Short mountain. He died in Powell's 

Valley. He was a soldier of the Revolution 

and an active citizen in the " Upper End." 

He married Susannah Deibler, daughter of 

Albright Deibler, and died in Armstrong 

Valley at the age of 87. They had issue: 

i. Anna-Mary, m. John Pies, and left a 

large family. They resided at Sand 

Spring, in the upper end of Powell's 

Valley. 

ii. Susannah, m. Philip Shott, and had a 

large family. 
Hi. Catharine, m. Jonathan Novinger; re- 
moved to Indiana. Cyrus Novinger, 
of Millersburg, is their son. 

12. iv. John-B., b. 1790; m. Margaret Bow- 

man. 
v. Jonas, was a farmer, and resided at 
the foot of Peter's mountain, where 
he died. 
to. Peter, was a farmer; m. and resided 
near Fisherville, where he died, 
leaving a large family. 
vii. Christian, was a farmer; resided near 

Snyder's mill, Lykens Valley. 
viii. Daniel-G., b. 1795, was a farmer and 
resided near Fisherville ; sixty 
years ago m. Susannah Harmau, 
now 85 years of age; was a justice 
of the. peace a long time, and held 
other offices. 
ix. Philip, b. about 1800; was justice of 
the peace for Jefferson township. 

V. John Hoffman (John, John-Peter), re- 
sided near his father; was a farmer, and 
held the office of justice of the peace until he 
received the appointment of steward of the 
county almshouse in 1824, a position he held 



until 1838 when he was elected register, 
serving until 1841; was the first local 
preacher in the valley, built the first fulling 
and carding mill in the Upper End, where 
Samuel Wolf now resides in Lykens town- 
ship. He was married four times, his first 
wife being a Miss Deibler, sister to Daniel 
Deibler, Sr., and left a large family. 

VI. Daniel Hoffman (John, John-Peter), 
m. Miss Snyder, and had one son, Daniel, Jr., 
a distinguished civil engineer, residing in 
Philadelphia. John R., a son of the latter, 
also a civil engineer in the employ of the 
Summit Branch Railroad and Coal Com- 
pany, resides at Pottsville. Daniel Hoff- 
man, Sr., died young, in Lykens Valley, and 
his widow subsequently married John Hoke, 

VII. Peter Hoffman (John-Nicholas, 
John-Peter), was born ou the 22d of Septem- 
ber, 1778. He was a farmer and owned the 
farm now in the occupancy of William 
Hawk. He was a soldier of the war of 1812 
and died in 1864, aged 86 years. He mar- 
ried Mollie Lubold, sister of Frederick Lu- 
bold. They are both buried in the Hoffman 
church graveyard. They had issue: 

i. Daniel, m. Miss Rissinger and re- 
moved to Crawford county, Pa., 
where his son Joshua now resides. 
Another son, Jonas, a carpenter, re- 
sides at Lykens. Daniel died a few 
years ago aged 73 years. 

ii. Jacob-Peter, was quite a politician and 
died a few years ago in Lykens, 
where his widow and children now 
reside. 
Hi. John-Peter, b. in 1806 ; m. Elizabeth 
Umholtz, daughter of J. Philip 
Umholtz ; was a farmer residing 
near Short mountain. Their son, 
Henry-B., resided at Millersburg, 
and John-P., in Powell's Valley. 

iv. Catharine, m. Daniel Reigle. Mr. 
Reigel was county commissioner, 
1852-4. 
v. Elizabeth, m. Philip Keiser. Their 
son Daniel was a member of the 
Legislature, 1863-4. 

to. Hannah, m. Samuel Thomas. 

VIII. Jacob Hoffman (John-Nicholas, 
John-Peter), b. in 1782, purchased his father's 
farm. He was a well-informed farmer, and 
was exceedingly popular. He filled several 
local offices, and in 1833 and 1834 served in 
the Legislature. He was quite prominent in 



IIS 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



the church, and a zealous Christian. He 
married Catharine Ferree. They had issue : 
i. Amos, b. 1809 ; m. Amanda, daughter 
of the late Gen. Thomas Harper ; 
was for a number of years steward 
of the almshouse, and resided at 
Berrysburg. At one time he had 
five sons in the Union army, Col. 
Thomas-W., Capt. Jacob-F., John- 
H. s Edwin-A., and Henry, 
ii. Jacob-B., resided near Williamstown. 
Hi. Hannah, m. John Romberger. 
iv. Sarah, m. Michael Forney. 
v. Catharine, m. Abram Hess. 

IX. Daniel Hoffman (John-Nicholas, 
John-Peter), was born in 1784 ; was a farmer, 
and served in the war of 1812. He died in 
1830 at the age of 46 years. He married 
Hannah Ferree, and had issue : 

i. David, was a merchant and justice of 
the peace. He died and is buried 
at Berrysburg. His son, Danel-C, 
became superintendent of a Ken- 
tucky and Tennessee railroad, and 
died of yellow fever in 1878 at 
Louisville, Ky. 

ii. Jacob-D., was a county commissioner 
and twice sheriff; resided at Har- 
risburg ; of his family Isaac- W. is 
agent of the Northern Central rail- 
way at Millersburg ; Adam, United 
States postal route agent; George- 
E., d. 188S; Ada, m. M. Wilson 
McAlarney, an attorney-at-law, 
postmaster at Harrisburg 1874- 
1S86, now editor Daily Telegraph ; 
Ehnira, m. Joseph C. McAlarney, a 
lawyer, of Harrisburg ; Rebecca, and 
Sarah. 

Hi. Daniel, is a miner and resides at Ly- 
kens. 

iv. Joseph, resided at Hummelstown. 
v. Hannah, m. Isaac Uhler, a miller. 

vi. Ehnira, m. John S. Musser, who was 
county commissioner 1860-62; re- 
sided at Millersburg. 

X. Nicholas Hoffman (John-Nicholas, 
John-Peter), was born in 1790 — a farmer, 
and served in the war of 1812. He died in 
1874 at the age of eighty-four. He had 
issue : 

i. John-Nicholas, was director of the 
poor; resided in Washington town- 
ship. 
ii. Isaac, was count v commissioner 
1867-70. 



Hi. Sarah, m. 



Sheaffer ; their 



daughter Mary married William B. 
Meetch, former register of the 
county. 
iv. James, resided on the old homestead. 

XL John Hoffman (John-Nicholas, John- 
Peter), b. in 1794, was a soldier in the war 
of 1812 ; a tailor by trade, and resided near 
Berrysburg, where he died. He left a large 
family. George, Daniel and Henry Katter- 
man, severally, married daughters of John 
Hoffman. 

XII. John B. Hoffman (Christian, John- 
Peter), b. in L790 ; was a blacksmith by 
trade; served in the war of 1812, in which 
he was promoted a lieutenant colonel. He 
filled a number of responsible official posi- 
tions, and died in 1875, aged eighty-five 
years. He married Margaret Bowman and 
left a large family, most of whom reside in 
Powell's Valley. 



Marcus Hulings and His Family. 

From data in our possession we are able to 
give the year of the location of an early 
settler at the mouth of the Juniata, that of 
Marcus Hulings in 1753. Day and Rupp, 
relying upon tradition, give the time " possi- 
bly as early as 1735." It is a matter of his- 
tory that all the settlers on Shearman's 
creek and the Juniata had been removed b} r 
the sheriff, Andrew Work's posse in 1750, 
and the houses of the settlers burned ; so 
that it was not for two or three years at least 
afterwards that the hardy frontiersman ven- 
tured to build his rude cabin on the forbid- 
den land. It is stated b} r Watson that 
Marcus Hulings came from Marcus Hook on 
the Delaware. Nevertheless, the Hulings 
were among the earliest settlers on that 
river, locating there long before the founder 
came over and constituted the grand old 
Commonwealth called for him. The name 
is spelled Uhling, Hewlings and Hulings, 
and is Swedish. 

A few years after locating -on the Juniata 
came Braddock's defeat, and all the horrors 
of an Indian war followed. In the spring 
after (1756) the savages had reached the Sus- 
quehanna ; but the few scattered frontiers- 
men were unequal for the conflict, and were 
obliged to flee. Some lingered too long, for 
the wily red man came down suddenly and 
the tomahawk and scalping-knife were reek- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



119 



ing with the life-blood of the hardy, but 
unfortunate pioneers. Mr. Hulings, on be- 
ing apprised of the near approach of the 
savages, hurriedly packed up a few valuables 
and, placing his wife and youngest child 
upon a large black horse (the other children 
having previously been removed to a place 
of safety) fled to the point of the island, ready 
to cross over at the first alarm. Forgetting 
something in the haste, and thinking the 
Indians might not have arrived, Mr. Hulings 
ventured to return alone to the house. 
After carefully reconnoitering, he entered, 
and found, to his surprise, an Indian upstairs 
" cooly picking Ins flint." Stopping some 
time to parley with the savage, so that he 
might retreat without being shot at; the de- 
lay, to his wife, seemed unaccountable and, 
fearing he had been murdered, she whipped 
up her horse and swam the Susquehanna. 
The water was quite high, but, nowise 
daunted, she succeeded in reaching the op- 
posite shore in safety. Mr. Hulings soon 
appeared, and finding the animal with his 
wife and child had disappeared, in turn he 
became alarmed, but a signal from the east- 
ern shore of the stream relieved his anxiety, 
and he himself, by means of a light canoe, 
was safe from pursuit. The fugitives suc- 
ceeded in reaching Fort Hunter, where the 
Baskins and others of their neighbors had 
congregated and the inhabitants of Paxtang 
had rallied for a defense. 

It was not until the fall of Fort Duquesne, 
and the erection of Fort Pitt, that Marcus 
Hulings returned to his farm with his family. 
A year after, however, we find him at the 
Forks of the Ohio, where he took up a quan- 
tity of land. In the meantime, encroach- 
ments were being made upon his lands on 
the Juniata, and in 1762 we have the follow- 
lowing letter, protesting against the same : 

" Fokt Pitt, May the 7th, 1762. 
" To William Peters, Esq., Secretorey to the 

Propriatorries in land office in Philadelphia, 

&c. : 

" The Petitioner hereof humbly showeth 
his grievance in a piece of uncultivated 
land, laying in Cumberland County, on the 
Northwest side of Juneadey, laying in the 
verry Forks and point between the two 
rivers, Susquehanna and Juneadey, a place 
that I Emprovedand lived on one Year and 
a half on the said place till the enemeyes in 
the beginning of the last Warrs drove me 
away from it, and I have had no opertunity 



yet to take out a Warrant for it; my next 
neighbour wass one Joseph Greenwood, who 
sold his emprovement to Mr. Xeaves, a 
merchant in Philadelphia, who took out a 
warrant for the s'd place, and gave it into 
the hands of Collonel John Armstrong, who 
is Surveyor for Cumberland County; and 
while I was absent from them parts last 
Summer, Mr. Armstrong runed out that 
place Joyning me, for Mr. Neaves ; and as 
my place laves in the veny point, have en- 
croached too much on me and Take away 
part of Improvements ; the line Desided be- 
tween me and Joseph Greenwood was up to 
the first small short brook that empyed into 
Susquehannah above the point, and if I 
should have a strait line run'd from the one 
river to the other with equal front on each 
River from that brook, I shall not have 300 
acres in that survey ; the land above my 
house upon Juneadey is much broken and 
stoney. I have made a rough draft of the 
place and lines, and if Your Honour will be 
pleased to see me righted, the Petitioner 
hereof is in Duty bound ever for you to 
pray ; from verry humble serv't, 

" Marcus Hulings." 

With the foregoing he sent the following 
note to Mr. Peters : 

" May ye 17th, 1762. 

" Sir : I have left orders for Mr. Mathias 
Holston living in Upper Merrion of Phila- 
delphia county, to take out two warrants for 
me, one for the Point between the two Riv- 
ers, and one for the Improvements I have in 
the place called the Onion bottom on the 
south side of Juneadey right aposite to the 
other, where I lived six months before I 
moved to the other place ; from your hum- 
ble servant, Marcus Hulixgs." 

Directed to " William Peters, Esq., Secret" rt y 
to the Propriatories land office In Philadel- 
phia." 

With these letters is the " rough draught" 
of the land at the mouth of the Juniata, 
which would be worth reproducing, as w 
description we can give will convey an accu- 
rate idea of it. Three islands are noted. 
One now known as Duncan's Island is 
marked " Island " and house as " Widdow 
Baskins." The large island in the Susque- 
hanna known as Haldeman's Island con- 
taining three houses — the one to the south- 
ern point "Francis Baskins" one-third 
further up, on the Susquehanna side. 
" George Clark," while about the center that 



120 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



of " Francis Ellis." On the north point is 
the word " Island." Almost opposite, on the 
east bank of the Susquehanna, is " James 
Reed's " house ; while between the center of 
the island and the western shore is a small 
triangular " Island," so marked. On " the 
point" between the "Susquehannah River" 
and the " Juneadey River," near the bank of 
the latter stream, is "Hulings' house." 
Some distance from "the point " is a straight 
line running from river to river on which is 
written " this is the way I want my line;" 
while beyond on the West Branch of the 
Susquehannah nearly opposite " James 
Reed's " house is " Mr. Neave's house." 
Farther up the river, opposite a small 
island is " Francis Ellis' " house. A circuit- 
ous line denominated " Mr. Neave's line," 
crosses the straight line referred to which in- 
cluded " Part of Hulings' Improvement." 
On the south side of the Juniata below the 
mouth thereof is "William Kerl's" house; 
opposite the point of Duncan's Island, 
" James Baskins' " house, while " Hulings' 
house " (another improvement) is farther up 
— in what is named the " Onion bottom." 
Beyond this on the same side of the Juniata 
is a house marked "Cornelius Acheson, who 
has encroached upon Hulings' Improvement 
in the Onion bottom — settled there last 
Spring." Opposite the islands on the east 
bank of the Susquehanna are " Peter's moun- 
tain" and " narroughs." We suppose Mr. 
Hulings was " lighted," as he desired. 

Becoming discontented with the situation 
at Pittsburgh, Hulings sold his claim for 
£200 and returned to his home at the mouth 
of the Juniata, where he made considerable 
improvements. He established a ferry, and 
built, says Watson, a causeway at the upper 
end of Duncan's Island for j)ack horses to 
pass. 

Marcus Hulings' home was lately in the 
possession of Dr. George N. Reutter. He 
originally owned all the land between the 
Susquehanna and Juniata below New Buf- 
falo, and had also a tract of land at the 
mouth of Shearman's creek, then in Rye 
township, Cumberland county, but now 
Penn township, Perry county. 

Mr. Hulings died in September, 1788, and 
is buried in a gravej r ard near Losh's Run. 
Mrs. Hulings, whose maiden name has not 
come down to us, was a remarkable woman, 
and on more than one occasion forded the 
Susquehanna and wended her way to the 
mill at Fort Hunter with a small bag of 



grain — when waiting till it was ground, she 
hastened homeward. This, however, was 
only in the first years of their pioneer life, 
for shortly after a grist mill was erected on 
Shearman's creek. She was a brave and in- 
trepid pioneer woman, and a noble wife for 
the hardy frontiersman. She died prior to 
the Revolution and is buried in the same 
graveyard with her husband, but their 
graves are unmarked. They had five chil- 
dren who survived their parents : 

I. Marcus, the eldest, born in 1747, pos- 
sibly never returned with his father from 
Fort Pitt. He erected a large stone tavern 
and established a ferry on the south side of 
the Monongahela river, opposite the foot of 
Liberty street, Pittsburgh. It was afterwards, 
says Mr. Isaac Craig, for half a centurj r 
known as Jones' ferry house, and as fre- 
quently noted in the journals of travelers 
about the commencement of the present cen- 
tury. He seems to have been quite promi- 
nent on the western frontiers and is fre- 
quently made mention of. Gen. Richard 
Butler, one of the commissioners appointed 
to hold treaties with the Northern and 
Western Indians, in his journal of October 
1,1785, says: "I fortunately recommended 
the employment of one Mr. Hiding, who I 
find to be a very useful, active and ingenious 
man, he goes ahead with a small canoe to 
search out the channel, which we find to be 
very crooked." This was no doubt Marcus 
Hulings. In the journal of Gen. Joseph 
Buell, the arrival at Fort Harmar of 
" Uhling, a trader on the river," is mentioned 
three times, November 5 and December 3, 
1786, and on the 4th of January, 1787. For 
more than ten years subsequent to 1790, 
Marcus Hulings was employed by Major 
Isaac Craig, quartermaster at Pittsburgh, in 
transporting military stores up the Alle- 
gheny to Fort Franklin and to Presqu' Isle, 
and down the Ohio and Mississippi to the 
military posts on those streams. Major 
Craig's letter-books and papers contain 
ample evidence that Marcus Hulings was a 
faithful and reliable man in all his under- 
takings. We have no knowledge as to his 
subsequent career, although we are informed 
that he died in Tennessee. He left descend- 
ants. 

II. Mary, b. in 1749; m., 1st, Thomas 
Simpson ; 2d, on January 18, 1780, William 
Stewart. They had four children. She d. 
February 22, 1790. Mr. Stewart afterwards 
m. Mrs. Martha Espy, widow of James Espy. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



121 



III. Samuel, b. in 1751, also located on 
the Ohio. He owned an island in the Alle- 
gheny called Hillings', and we presume is 
yet known by that name. Samuel Hulings 
married and left issue. 

IV. James, b. in 1/53 ; we have no knowl- 
edge whatever. 

V. Thomas Hulings, youngest son of 
Marcus Hulings, who succeeded to the pater- 
nal estate, b. March 3,1755; d. in Buffalo 
township, Perry county, March, 1808. He 
was a prominent man in the locality, and 
served on several important State commis- 
sions. He was twice married ; 1st, to Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Gen. Frederick Watts, of 
the Revolution, and Jane Murrav, his wife, 
b. July 7, 1749 ; d. July 15, 1801. They had 
issue : 

i. Rebecca, b. March 25, 1789 ; m., May 
21, 1811, Robert Callender Duncan, 
son of Judge Duncan, of Carlisle, 
from whom Duncan's Island de- 
rives the name. She died in April, 
1850, leaving two children : Dr. 
Thomas Duncan, who d. in 1879, 
without issue; and Benjamin Styles 
Duncan, who d. in 1870, leaving 
four children now residing on Dun- 
can's Island. It may be here re- 
marked that Mrs. Duncan, in her 
will, says, "of Isle Ben venue." 

ii. Marcus, b. February 11, 1791 ; re- 
moved to the South ; m. and left 
issue. 

Hi. Frederick- Watts, b. March 9, 1792 ; m. 
and settled in Tennessee, where he 
became quite prominent, being at 
one time speaker of the House of 
Representatives of that State. He 
was a captain in the Confederate 
army, and while attempting to get 
on a train of cars during the Rebel- 
lion was severely injured, from the 
effects of which he died at his then 
residence, New Orleans. He left 
issue. 

vi. David- Watts, b. 1793; m. Maria Pat- 
ton, of Lewistown. He studied law 
and was admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar April 21, 1823. He be- 
came the possessor of the old home- 
stead, but afterwards disposed of it 
and purchased largely near Lewis- 
town. He bought Hope Furnace, 
which he greatly improved. He 
represented Mifflin county in the 



Legislature. Subsequently he re- 
moved to Baltimore, where he died 
leaving children, Thomas, Maria, 
Ellen, Mary- and Lizzie. Thomas 
married a daughter of General 
Thomas, of Washington, D. G; 
was a colonel in the Civil war, 
and killed in the battle of the 
Wilderness. Maria married Lloyd 
Williams, a lawyer, of Baltimore. 
Ellen married Charles Denison, of 
Wilkes-Barre. Mary married Good- 
win Williams, of Baltimore, and 
Elizabeth married Chauncey Rey- 
nolds, of Wilkes-Barre. The latter 
are both widows, residing at Balti- 
more. 
v. Mary, b. May 8, 1798; m. James S. 
Espy, of Harrisburg, and had two 
children, both of whom are de- 
ceased. 
Thomas Hulings married, secondly, Re- 
becca, daughter of Andrew and Rebecca 
Berryhill, of Harrisburg, and had issue: 
vi. Eleanor, b. 1803; m. John Keagy, of 
Harrisburg, and had issue : Thomas 
and Rebecca, both residing at Balti- 
more. After Mr. Keagy 's death, 
she married Dr. Joseph Ard, of 
Lewistown, whom she survived. 
She died at Baltimore in June, 
1880. 
vii. Elizabeth, b. 1805 ; in. James Dickson, 
of Lewistown, and had issue : Annie 
and William. The latter died in 
Philadelphia in 1875, leaving 
Annie, who resides at New Bloom- 
field. Mrs. Dickson, the last surviv- 
ing child of Thomas Hulings, died 
at New Bloomfield on the 25th of 
July, 1881. 
viii. Julia, m. William Bringhurst, of 
Clarkesville, Tenn., and had issue, 
three boys and three girls ; two of 
the former are dead, the remaining 
children married and are residing 
in Tennessee. 



The Hummel Family. 

I. Frederick Hummel, the founder of 
Hummelstown, was born April 11, 1726, in 
Wurtemberg, Germany ; d. June 24, 1775, in 
Derry township, Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county, Pa. He was twice married ; first, 
Rosina , b. December 20, 1732, in the 



122 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Pfalz, Germany; d. December 26, 1768. They 
had issue: 

2. i. Valentine, b. February 17, 1753; m. 

Anna Eve . 

3. ii. Frederick, b. October 4, 1758 ; m." 

Rachel Rickert. 

4. Hi. David, b. January 9, 1761 ; m. Mary 

Toot. 
iv. Rosina, b. August 9, 1763; d. s. p. 
v. Eve, b. 1765; m. Peter Fridley. 
Mr. Hummel m., secondly, in 1769, Bar- 
bara Blessing, who d. December, 1797. They 
had issue : 

5. to. Christian, b. March 24,1770; m. Sus- 

anna Reist. 
vii. Catharine (twin), b. March 24, 1770 ; 
m. John Wetherholt. 

6. viii. Barbara, b. 1772; m. Nicholas Singer. 

7. ix. John, b. September 11, 1774; m. Esther 

Minsker. 
x. Ludwig, b. 1775; d. inf. 

II. Valentine Hummel (Frederick), b. 
February 17, 1753 ; d. October 20, 1802. His 

wife, Anna Eve , b. December 20, 1 750 ; 

d. September 16, 1830 ; both buried in the Lu- 
theran church graveyard at Hummelstown. 
They had issue: 

i. John, b. March, 1796; d. s. p. 

III. Frederick Hummel (Frederick), b. 
October 4, 1758; d. December 7, 1802; m. 
Rachel Rickert, daughter of Jacob Rickert, b. 
March 14, 1757; d. November 24, 1835. 
They had issue : 

8. i. Jacob, b. 1780 ; m. Susanna Bine- 

hower. 

9. ii. Frederick, b. July 6, 1782 ; m. Susanna 

Hamaker. 
Hi. John,, b. 1785 ; d. March 10, 1793. 
10. iv. Valentine, b. February 7, 1787; m. 
Elizabeth Walborn. 
v.Hannah, b. September 18, 1789; d. 

June 21, 1860; unm. 
vi. David, b. October 29, 1792 ; d. Feb- 
ruary 9, 1805. 
vii. Rosina, b. May 4, 1795 ; d. March 24, 

1876; unm. 
viii. Christina, b. 1797 ; m. David Earnest. 
ix. Rachel, b. November 24, 1799 ; d. 
September 27, 1867; m. Richard 
Fox. 
x.Elizabeth, b. September 23, 1807; d. 
March 24, 1836 ; unm. 

IV. David Hummel (Frederick), b. Janu- 
ary 9, 1761; d. October 3, 1793; m. Mary 
Toot, b. January 11, 1764; d. December 29, 
1858, daughter of David Toot, of Middle- 



town. In the Lutheran church graveyard 
at Hummelstown is a tombstone with the 
following inscription : " Hier Ruhet \ David 
Hummel, \ Er war Gebohren \ den 9ten Januar 
| 1761 und Starb den \ 3ten October 1793; 
ist oltivordenin \ 32Jahr8mo \ und®4. Tag 
ich habe uber wunden, \ zu guter nact welt 
Und zog durch Christi wunden \ ins reehti Sie- 
geszelt." They had issue : 

11. i. Frederick, b. December 24, 1782; m. 

Barbara Metzgar. 

12. ii. David, b. September 8, 1784 ; m. Su- 

sanna Kunkel. 

Hi. Leah, b. 1787 ; d. January 20, 1817 ; 
m., December 10, 1811, Henry Lan- 
dis. 

iv. Mary, b. March 13, 1789; d. Novem- 
ber 23, 1863; in. Daniel Baum, b. 
April 19, 1783; d. December 21, 
1857. 

13. v. Anna, b. May 29, 1791; d. October 3, 

1763 ; in. George Stoner. 

14. iv. Joseph, b. August 11, 1793; m. Eliza- 

beth Leebrick. 

V. Christian Hummel (Frederick), b. 
March 24,1770; d. March 7,1837; m. Su- 
sanna Reist, b. February 28, 1772 ; d. Sep- 
tember 28, 18c4. They had issue ten sons 
and four daughters, of whom we have the 
following : 

15. i. Jacob, b. March 24, 1791 ; m. Justina 

Bower. 
ii. David, b. 1792; accidently drowned 

February 28, 1808. 
Hi. Samuel, b. 1794; m. Kunkel- 

man, and had issue. 
iv. Joseph, b. 1796 ; d. June 19, 1844. 
v. Mary, b. 1798; d. February 19, 1829; 

m. William Barnett, b. 1793; d. 

September 6, 1828. 
to. Christian, b. 1803 ; m. and left issue. 

16. vii. David, b. May 16, 1806 ; m. Barbara 

Shira. 

17. viii. John, m. Catharine Weidle. 
ix. Reist, d. s. p. 

x. Michael, d. February, 1829 ; m. Catha- 
rine . 

VI. Barbara Hummel (Frederick), b. 
1774 ; d. March 25, 1834 ; m. Nicholas Singer, 
b. 1769 ; accidentally drowned March 4, 
1815 ; had issue as follows (surname Singer) : 

i. Jacob, m. Elizabeth Andrew. 
ii. Elizabeth, d. s. p. 

Hi. John, m. Binehower. 

iv. David, d. s. p. 

v. Frederick, d. s. p. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



123 



vi. George, b. July 19, 1808; ra. Nancy 
Christley, b. October 31, 1811 ; d. 
June 23, 1869, and had issue : 

1. Elizabeth-Barbara, m. Herman 

Garberich. 

2. Sarah-Rebecca. 

3. David- William, m. Jennie Sel- 

lers. 

4. Caroline- Margaret, m. John H. 

Fisher. 

5. Juliann, m. Ann Sellers. 
mi. Samuel, rn. and left issue. 

VII. John Hummel (Frederick), b. Sep- 
tember 11, 1774, d. September 11,1832; m. 
Esther Minsker, b. March 12, 1778 ; d. May 
23, 1832, and buried at Campbellstown. 
They had issue : 

i. Rebecca, b. March 19, 1805 ; d. August 
13, 1868; m. John Blessing, b. 
September 30, 1800 ; d. March 19, 
1856. 
ii. Frederick. 

Hi. David, m. Catharine Herr, of Lancas- 
ter county, Pa. 
iv. Jesse-B., b. November 4, 1807 ; d. Au- 
gust 11, 1867 ; m. Mary Ann Stoner, 
b. April 22, 1815 ; d. June 14, 1849. 
v. Sabina. 

vi. Michael- Minsker, d. s. p. 
vii. James, 
viii. John, d. s. p. 

VIII. Jacob Hummel (Frederick, Freder- 
ick), b. 1780; d. November 5, 1850; m., June 
11, 1805, Susanna Binehower, daughter of 
Peter and Christina Binehower, b. 1783; 
d. December 10, 1845, and left issue : 

i. Peter, b. June 7, 1807 ; d. May 18, 

1868 ; m. Sarah B. Stoner. 
ii. Frederick-A., d. s. p. 
Hi. Jacob-Binehower, in. and had issue. 
iv. Catharine, m. George Balsbaugh, and 

had issue. 
v. John-H., b. July 18, 1817; m. Ann Fox. 
vi. Solomon, d. s. p. 

vii. Valentine-B., b. April 28, 1825 ; d. Oc- 
tober 10, 1879 ; m. Lydia , 

b. November 27, 1827; d. April 20, 
1876, and left issue. 

IX. Frederick Hummel (Frederick, Fred- 
erick), b. July 6, 1782 ; d. March 28, 1831 ; 
m. Susanna Hamaker, b. March 6, 1783; d. 
April 6, 1855, and had issue: 

i. Savilla, b. December 11, 1803 ; d. De- 
cember 19, 1836. 
ii. Cyrus, b. 1805 ; m. 



Hi. Elizabeth, b. September 23, 1807 ; d. 

March 24, 1836. 
iv. Valentine, b. March 12, 1812 ; d. Au- 
gust 26, 1880 ; m. Jane Nelson, and 
left issue. 
v. Anna, d. April, 1855 ; m. John Hum- 
mel, of Ohio, and left issue. 
vi. John-Frederick, d. May, 1890. 

vii. George- Washington, m. Kill- 

inger. 
viii. Richard-Jackson, b. July 25, 1823 ; d. 

August 7, 1845. 
X. Valentine Hummel (Frederick, Fred- 
erick), b. February 7, 1787, at Hummelstown; 
d. September 4, 1870; m., March 18,1813, by 
Rev. F. C. Schaeffer, Elizabeth Walborn, b. 
1797 ; d. October 25, 1867 ; daughter of Chris- 
tian Walborn. They had issue: 

i. Mary- Walborn, m. Charles L. Berg- 

haus, and had issue. 
ii. Elizabeth, m. William M. Kerr, and 
had Elizabeth, m. Dr. George W. 
Reily. 
in. Franklin, d. s. p. 
iv. Caroline, m. Jacob S. Haldeman, and 

had issue. 
v. Richard, b. 1826 ; d. October 6, 1880 ; 
m. Eliza Bucher, and had issue. 

XL Frederick Hummel (David, Freder- 
ick), b. December 24, 1782 ; d. October 31, 
1847 ; m., March 25, 1806, Barbara Metzgar, 
b. September 1, 1779 ; d. November 22, 1861, 
daughter of Jacob Metzgar, of Derry. They 
had issue : 

i. Martin, b. June 8, 1808 ; d. January 
23, 1875 ; m. Barbara Keller, and 
left issue. 
ii. David, d. s. p. 

Hi. Adam, b. June 16, 1810; m. Mary 
Berger, of State of New York, and 
had issue. 
iv. George-Toot, b. September 2, 1812 ; d. 
April 15, 1875 ; m. Margaret Earn- 
est; no issue. 
v. Jacob- Metzgar, b. March 16, 1818 ; m. 

Elizabeth Hertzler. 
vi. Joseph-Frederick, b. January 31,1820; 
m. Ellen Baum, and had issue. 

XII. David Hummel (David, Frederick), 
b. September 8, 1784, at Hummelstown; d. 
June 30, 1860, at Harrisburg; m., October 
13, 1807, Susanna Kunkel, b. May 31, 1790; 
d. January 1, 1851, at Harrisburg, daughter 
of Christian Kunkel, and had issue: 

i. Catharine, m. Philip W. Seibert, and 
left issue. 



124 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



ii. David, m. Sarah Bombaugh, and left 
issue. 
Hi. Christian, d. s. p. 
iv. Mary, in. Alexander Watson, son of 

Jackson Watson. 
v. Elizabeth, m. William R. Gorgas. 
vi. Susanna, d. s. p. 
vii. George. 

viii. Albert, m. Anna Plitt. 
ix. Susan, m. James L. Reily. 
x. Annie, m. Dr. Eli H. Coover. 
xi. Emma. 

XIII. Anna Hummel (David, Frederick), 
b. Mav 29, 1791; d. October 3, 1863; m. 
George Stoner. They had issue (surname 
Stoner) : 

i. Mary-Ann, m. Jesse B. Hummel. 
ii. Sarah-B., m. Peter Hummel. 

Hi. Augustus, m. Hetrick. 

iv. David, 
v. Henrietta, m. Major Beinteman, of 

Hamburg, Berks county, Pa. 
vi. Rebecca, m. Dr. Witmer, of Philadel- 
phia. 
vii. Leah, m. Rev. Jeremiah Smith. 

XIV. Joseph Hummel (David, Frederick), 
b. August 11, 1793 ; d. April 18, 1852 ; m. 
Elizabeth Leebrick, b. 1799 ; d. September 
12, 1890, at Hummelstown ; dau. of Philip 
and Mary G. Leebrick. She was a woman 
of great force of character, dignified, yet 
tender, truthful and consistent in all her 
walks through life. They had issue : 

i. Henry-Leebrick, b. 1817 ; m. Adeline 

Stecher. 
ii. Elizabeth, m. Frederick Lauman. 
Hi. Richard-Toot, b. March 23,1821; m. 

Mary Coover. 
iv. Mary, m. Benjamin Givler ; resided in 

Mechanicsburg, Pa. 
v. Sarah, m. Martin Early ; resided in 

Palmyra, Pa. 
vi. David-S., m. Catharine Zinn. 
vii. Susan. 

■viii. Caroline, in 1882 was postmistress of 
Hummelstown. 
ix. Anna, 
x. Charles, resided in New York City. 
xi. Joseph- Augustus, d. s. p. 
xii. Edwin, d. s. p. 
xiii. Silas, d. s. p. 

XV. Jacob Hummel (Christian, Freder- 
ick), b. March 24, 1791 ; d. March 13, 1847 ; 
m., in 1815, Justina Bower, b. September 15, 
1793; d. April 15, 1845; and left issue: 

i. Louisa- Anna, b. June 6, 1816; d. s. p. 



ii. Caroline, b. December 17, 1817; d. 

1852 ; m. David Dipner and left 

issue. 
Hi. Levi, b. July 19, 1820. 
iv. Justina, b. December 28, 1822 ; m. 

Benjamin F. Feaster. 
v. Sarah-Elizabeth, b. October 4, 1825 ; 

d. s. p. 
vi. Abner, b. October 2, 1827 ; m. Eliza- 
beth Alexander, b. March 4, 1852, 

and had issue : Sarah-Elizabeth, m. 

H. Wells Buser; Charles-H.; d.s. p.; 

Mary-C, Frederick-E., Carrie-E., and 

Jacob- A. 
vii. Harriet, b. February 3, 1831 ; m. 

Christian Laley, both deceased and 

left issue. 
viii. Theodore, b. October 16, 1833 ; m. and 

resides in Portsmouth, 0. 
ix. Mary, b. July 20, 1836. 

XVI. David Hummel (Christian, Freder- 
ick), b. May 16, 1809 ; d. July 27, 1870 ; m. 
March 3, 1833, Barbara Shira (Shearer), and 
had issue : 

i. Alfred. 

ii. George. 
Hi. David. 

iv. Henry. 

v. Samuel- A. 

vi. Christian, 
vii. Joseph, 
viii. John-M., d. s. p. 

ix. Annie, m. Thomas Jack. 

XVII. John Hummel (Christian, Freder- 
ick), m. Catharine Weidle, of Jonestown. 
They had issue : 

i. Sarah, m. John Steckley. 
ii. Matilda, m. Jacob Reigel. 
Hi. Daniel, m. Anna, dau. of David Earn- 
est. 
iv. Alexander, m. Mary Moore. 
v. John, d. s. p. 



The Kellys of Londonderry. 

I. Patrick Kelly, b. 1709, in the north 
of Ireland; d. June 27, 1769, in London- 
derry township, then Lancaster county, Pa.; 
came to America in 1734, and took up a 
large tract of land in the Swatara region, 
where he lived and died ; his wife Rachel, b. 
in 1708, in Province of Ulster, Ireland ; d. 
August 5. 1782, in Londonderry, and with 
her husband buried in old Deny church 
graveyard. They had issue: 





^^Sg ^ ^^ k^S^^, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



127 



i. Rachel, b. 1735 ; m. William Forster. 

2. ii. George, b. 1737; m.and had issue. 
in. Anne, b. 1739 ; d. prior to 1806; m. 

Patrick ; and left Mary, m. 

Thomas Nicholson. 

3. iv. John, b. February, 1741 ; m. Sarah 

Polk. 
v. Patrick, b. April 28, 1843 ; d. October 

28, 1826, in Londonderry ; unm. 
vi. Thomas, b. 1747 ; of whom we have 

no further record. 

4. vii. James, b. 1749 ; m. Elizabeth Forster. 

5. viii. Mary, b. 175] ; m. John Duncan. 

II. George Kelly (Patrick), b. 1737, in 
Londonderry township; d. prior to 1806, 
and left issue : 

i. Andrew, 
ii. Thomas. 

Hi. Rachel, d. prior to 1806 ; m. James 
Snodgrass; and left Sarah, Mary, 
Margaret, Rosina, Rachel, Elizabeth, 
William, George, James, and Thomas. 

III. John Kelly (Patrick), b. February, 
1741, in Londonderry township, Lancaster, 
now Dauphin countv, Pa.; d. February 8, 
1832, in Buffalo Valley- After the Indian 
purchase of 1768, he settled in the Buffalo 
Valley, enduring all the hardships of pioneer 
life. At the age of twenty-seven he was a 
captain and major on the frontiers, and at 
the outset of the Revolution was ready for 
the conflict; ho was a member of the con- 
vention of July 15, 1776, and subsequent^ 
entered the army, having previously assisted 
in organizing the associators, being appointed 
major in Col. James Potter's battalion. After 
the battle of Princeton, when Cornwallis by 
a forced march arrived at Stony Brook, 
General Washington sent an order to Colonel 
Potter to destroy the bridge at Worth's 
Mills in sight of the advancing British. 
Colonel Potter ordered Major Kelly to make 
a detail for that purpose, but the latter said 
he would not order another to do what some 
might say he was afraid to do himself; he 
took a detachment and went to work. The 
enemy opened upon him a heavy fire of 
round shot ; before all the logs were cut off, 
several balls struck the log on which he 
stood, and it breaking down sooner than he 
expected, he was precipitated into the stream ; 
his party moved off, not expecting him to 
escape. B3' great exertions he reached the 
shore, through the high water and floating 
timbers, ,'iid followed the troops. Encum- 
bered as he was with his wet and frozen 



clothes, he succeeded in making prisoner an 
armed British scout, and took him into 
camp. During the summer of 1777, Colonel 
Kelly commanded on the frontier, and con- 
tinued in that service almost to the close of 
the Revolution. The record of his adven- 
tures during those troublesome times reads 
like a romance. Colonel Kelly was ap- 
pointed agent for confiscated estates May 6, 
1778, and in 1780 was chosen to the 
Assembly. He was one of the magistrates 
of Northumberland county from August 2, 
1783, for upwards of twenty years. He 
married Sarah Polk , daughter of James 
Polk, of the valley, d. January 2, 1831.' 
They had issue : 

i. James, removed to Penn's Valley, and 
died there ; was father of James K. 
Kelly, U. S. senator from Oregon, 
1872-1878. 
ii. John, removed to Penn's Valley. 
Hi. William, m. a daughter of Archibald 
Allison, of Centre county, and died 
there January 27, 1830. 
iv. Andrew, b. 1783; d. September 24, 

1786; unm. 
v. Samuel, removed to Armstrong county, 

Pa. 
vi. Elizabeth, m. Simeon Howe. 
vii. Maria, d. January, 1861 ; m. John 

Campbell, of Lewisburg. 
viii. Robert, b. 1798 ; d. April 12, 1865. ' 
ix. Joseph, b. 1793 ; d. March 2, 1860. 
x. David-K, b. 1803 ; d. February 11, 
1875 ; was county commissioner of 
Union county. 

IV. James Kelly (Patrick), b. 1781, in Lon- 
donderry township, Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county, Pa.; d. February 10, 1813; m. 
Elizabeth Forster, daughter of James Forster 
and Elizabeth Moore ; b. 1759, in London- 
derry township; d. September 7, 1822, in 
Londonderry, and with her husband buried 
in old Derry church graveyard. They had 
issue, but we have not been able to secure 
their names. 

V. Mary Kelly (Patrick), b. 1751 ; d. 
prior to 1816 ; m. John Duncan. They had 
issue (surname Duncan): 

i. Samuel. 
ii. William. 
Hi. Baitana. 
iv. Mary, 
v. Rachel, dec'd; m. William Smith, and 

left Mary and Rachel. 
vi. Margaret, m. Hugh Dempsey. 



128 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



vii. James, m., and left James, John, Andrew, 

and Elizabeth. 
viii. Thomas, 
ix. David, 
x. Rebecca, m. William Elliott. 



v. Abraham, b. 1780; d. 1861 ; m., and 
had Henry- N., Abraham, Jacob, 
John, and Benjamin. 



The Landis Family. 

I. Benjamin Landis, a native of Switzer- 
land, and a Mennonite preacher, came to 
America in 1718, and took up a tract of two 
hundred and forty acres of land in now East 
Lampeter township, Lancaster county, Pa., 
where he lived and died. Of his children, 
we have record of only one: 

2. i. Benjamin, b. 1700. 

II. Benjamin Landis (Benjamin), b. in 
1700, in Switzerland; came with his father 
to America in 1718; m., and left issue : 

3. i. Benjamin, b. 1728. 

4. ii. Abraham, b. 1730. 

5. Hi. Jacob, b. 1732. 

6. iv. Henry, b. 1734. 

III. Benjamin Landis (Benjamin, Benja- 
min), b. 1728 ; removed to a farm near Lan- 
caster in 1753 ; m., and had issue : 

i. Benjamin, m., and had John, Benja- 
min, and Jacob, 
ii. Henry, m., and had Benjamin, Henry, 

John, Isaac, and Jacob, 
in. John, m., and had John, Benjamin, 
and Henry. 

IV. Abraham Landis (Benjamin, Benja- 
min), m., and had issue : 

i. Benjamin, m., and had John, Abra- 
ham, Benjamin, and David, 
ii. John, m., and had John, Abraham, 
and Emanuel. 

V. Jacob Landis (Benjamin, Benjamin), 
m., and had issue : 

i. John, m., and had Jacob, John, Abra- 
ham, Benjamin, Christian, Martin, 
David, and Daniel, 
ii. Abraham, in., and had Jacob, Abraham, 
Benjamin, John, and Adam. 

VI. Henry Landis (Benjamin, Benjamin), 
in., and had issue : 

i. Benjamin, m., and had Daniel, Henry, 

Benjamin, and John, 
ii. John, m., and had Benjamin and John. 
Hi. Henry, m., and had Daniel, Jacob, 

Henry, and Isaac. 
iv. Peter, m., and had David. 



The Larue Family. 

I. Johan George Larue, a native of 
Switzerland, emigrated to America about 
1740, and located in Lancaster county, Pa. 
He left, among other children : 

2. i. Jonas, b. August 4, 1709 ; m. Barbara 



ii. George, d. January, 1770, and left 
Isaac, Barbara, Elizabeth, and Mar- 
garet. 
Hi. Isaac, d. prior to 1770. leaving a son 
Henry. 

iv. Henry. 

v. Peter, d. prior to 1762 ; his wife Eliza- 
beth subsequently married John 
Shertz. They had John, George, 
and Catharine, who were under 
fourteen in 1768. 

II. Jonas Larue (Johan-George), b. Au- 
gust 4, 1709, in Switzerland ; d. January 1, 
1760, in Paxtang township, Lancaster, now 

Dauphin county; his wife Barbara , 

d. November 4, 1785. They had issue: 

i. Henry, b. September 24, 1739 ; d. Feb- 
ruary 15, 1778. 
ii. Catharina, b. December 31, 1740 ; m. 
John Busart ; removed to Hamil- 
ton township, Franklin county, Pa. 
Hi. Francis, b. March 2, 1744; d. Febru- 
ary 18, 1795 ; unm. 

3. iv. Anna-Maria (Mary), b. January 10, 

1747 ; m. John Metzgar. 

4. v. George, b. December 15, 1748 ; m. 

Anna Maria Forshner. 
vi. Elizabeth, b. February 19, 1754 ; m. 
Rev. Frederick Uling, of Caernar- 
von township, Lancaster county, 
Pa. 

5. vii. Margarelta, b. October 13, 1757 ; m. 

Henry Boal, of Northumberland 
county, Pa. 

III. Anna Maria (Mary) Larue (Jonas, 
Johan-George), b. January 10, 1747; d. No- 
vember 20, 1826, at Middletown, Pa.; m. 
John Metzgar, b. June 24, 1740; d. April 24, 
1826, at Middletown, and with his wife 
buried in the Lutheran graveyard. They 
had issue (surname Metzgar): 

i. John, b. September 13, 1766 ; d. May 
10, 1820. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



129 



ii. Elizabeth, b. October 14, 1767. 
Hi. Anna-Maria, b. September 20, 1768 ; d. 

June 11, 1769. 
iv. John-George, b. October 8, 1769. 
v. Daniel, b. October 30, 1770 ; d. Au- 
gust 28, 1807. 
vi. Ludwig, b. March 21, 1772 ; d. Au- 
gust 3, 1773. 
vii. Anna-Maria, b. November 19, 1773 ; 
d. April 19, 1850 ; m. Dr. Charles 
Fisher, b. September 8, 1766; d. 
May 8, 1808. 
viii. Jonas, b. September 29, 1775. 
ix. Catharine, b. May 22, 1777 ; d. Decem- 
ber 4, 1849; m. Jacob Shertz, b. 
February 20, 1772 ; d. May 27,1831. 
x. Jacob, b. March 20, 1779 ; d. October 

31, 1817. 
xi. Rebecca, b. December 25, 1781. 
xii. Charlotte, b. June 18, 1784. 
xiii. Lydia, b. June 16, 1786. 
xiv. Joseph, b. December 23, 1789 ; d. in 
Harrisburg in 1854; the father of 
Larue Metzgar, Esq., of this city. 

IV. George Larue ( Jonas, Johan- George), 
b. December 15,1748; d. April 11,1806; m., 
March 27, 1778, Anna Maria Forshner, b. 
May 16, 1757, in Switzerland ; arrived at 
Philadelphia October 17,1772; d. September 
5,1789. They had issue: 

i. Anna, b. September 11, 1779 ; m., first, 
George F. Varnick ; secondly, John 
Lemer. 
ii. Barbara-Elizabeth, b. April 23, 1782 ; 

m. Robert M. Dickey. 
Hi. Anna-Maria, b. June 29, 1784. 
iv. Anna-Catharine, b. July 5, 1789; d. 
October 27, 1806, near Harrisburg. 

V. Margaretta Larue (Jonas, Johan- 
George), b. October 13, 1757; m. Henry 
Boal, d. 1792, in Lower Paxtang township. 
They had issue : 

i. Michael, m. Anna . 

ii. Catharine, m. Daniel Warrior. 
Hi. Margaret, m. Michael Wolf, b. 1765; 
d. November 25, 1847. 

iv. John, d. 1819; in. Elizabeth ; 

removed to Chillisquaque, North- 
umberland county, Pa., where they 
died. They had Elizabeth, m. Mat- 
thew Laird ; Mary, m. John Resnor ; 
Sophia, m. Samuel Woods; Marga- 
ret, and Nancy, m. J. Foster Wilson, 
of Hartleton. 
v. Henry, m. Rebecca ; removed 



to West Buffalo, Northumberland 
county, Pa. 
vi. Medaline (Mary), m. Michael Gross, of 

Middletown. 
vii. Anna, m. Daniel Snyder ; removed to 

Botetourt county, Va. 
viii. Elizabeth, m. Peter Snyder, of Wash- 
ington county, Tenn. 
ix. Veronica (Frany), rri. Michael Kis- 
singer. 
x. John, 
xi. Christiana. 



The Leebrick Family. 

I. John Philip Leebrick, b. in 1896 in 
Manheim, Germany ; d. 1778, in Manheim, 
Lancaster county, Pa. He emigrated to 
America in the year 1750, locating in Lan- 
caster county, Pa. His children were : 

2. i. John- Philip- Nicholas, b. in 1748; m. 

Catharine Franks. 
ii. [A dau.~\, m. Daniel Bridigam. 
Hi. Hannah, m. Charles Wilsbach. 
iv. [A dau.~\, m. John Newman. 

II. John Philip Nicholas Leebrick 
(John-Philip), b. 1748, in Manheim, Lan- 
caster county, Pa.; d. February, 1788, in 
Manheim. He m. Catharine Franks. They 
had issue : 

i. John, d. s. p. 
ii. Catharine, d. s. p. 

3. Hi. Philip, b. February 7, 1775 ; m. Mary 

Gertrude Cassel. 
iv. Elizabeth, m. Jacob Swentzell. 

4. v. George, b. February 17, 1779 ; in. 

Mary Mohr. 

5. vi. Mary, m. Jacob Urben. 

vii. Daniel, m. Elizabeth Peters. 

6. viii. Salome, b. December 14, 1787 ; m. Dr. 

John Eberle. 

III. Philip Leebrick (John-Philip-Nich- 
olas, John-Philip), b. February 7, 1775, in 
Manheim, Lancaster county, Pa.; d. Novem- 
ber 30, 1827, at Hummelstown, Pa. He in. 
Mary Gertrude Cassel, b. September 24, 1776, 
in Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa.: 
d. March 23,1860, at Hummelstown; and 
with her husband buried in the old Lutheran 
church graveyard. They had issue : 

i. Elizabeth, b. 1799 ; m. Joseph Hum- 
mel. 

ii. Rebecca, m., first, Daniel Byers; sec- 
ondly, Gen. A. C. Harding; had 
issue by both. 



130 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



Hi. Mary, unm.; resided at Hummels- 
town. 

iv. John, m. Matilda Fritchey ; removed 

to Indiana. 
v. George, m., first, Emily Goldsmith ; 
secondly, Mrs. Elizabeth Woorall ; 
resided at Quincy, 111. 

vi. Catharine, m., first, Enoch Wade ; sec- 
ondly, Benjamin Woorall ; removed 
to Burlington, Iowa. 
vii. Samuel, m., first, Rachel Pierson ; sec- 
ondly, Mrs. Elizabeth Johnson. 
viii. Sarah, m. Elliott Scott; removed to 
DeSoto, 111. 

ix. Lucy-Ann, d. s. p. 

IV. George LEEBRiCK(John-Philip-Nich- 
olas, John-Philip), b. February 17, 1779, at 
Manheim, Lancaster county, Pa.; d. March 
12, 1847, at Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa.; 
removed to Union county, where he was en- 
gaged in tanning. In 1812 returned to Hal- 
ifax, where he erected a tannery and built a 
residence. He was engaged in this business 
many years in connection with keeping a 
general store. He was strictly upright and 
conscientious in all his transactions and en- 
joyed the confidence and respect of his neigh- 
bors. Mr. Leebrick married, March 17, 1801, 
by Rev. William Slyer, Mary Mohr, of 
Youngwomanstown, now Mifflinburg, Union 
county, Pa., b. December 17, 1777 ; d. March 
12, 1849, at Halifax, and there buried. They 
had issue: 

7. i. Catharine, b. January 1, 1802 ; m. 

William Parsons. 

8. ii. John-Philip, b. February 10, 1804 ; 

m. Hannah Mary Parke. 
Hi. Elizabeth, b. February 10, 1806 ; m. 

Benjamin Parke. 
iv. Sarah, b. April 26, 1808. 
v. Mary, b. March 25, 1810. 
vi. John, b. 1812; d. s. p. 
vii. Hannah- Wilsbach, b. March 10, 1814. 
viii. George, b. March 24,1816; m. Henri- 
etta Aston. 
ix. William- Mohr, b. September 12,1819 ; 
d. at Davenport, Iowa. 

V. Mary Leebrick (John-Philip-Nich- 
olas, John-Philip), m. Jacob Urben. They 
had issue (surname Urben) : 

i. Catharine, d. February, 1879; m. John 

Bowes. 
ii. Ambrose, d. unm. 

Hi. George- W., m. Mary Green ; resided at 
Dauphin. 



iv. Fanny, m. Colonel McFadden, of 

Lewisburg, Pa. 
v. Mary, m. Jacob Steel, of New Buffalo, 

Perry county, Pa. 
vi. John, m. Miss Wade. 

VI. Salome Leebrick (John-Philip-Nich- 
olas, John-Philip), b. December 14, 1787, at 
Manheim, Lancaster county, Pa.; m., July 1, 
1810, Dr. John Eberle. They had issue(sur- 
name Eberle) : 

i. Richard, m. Miss Higbee. 
ii. John,d. s. p. 

Hi. Catharine, m. Mr. Bacon, of Dayton, O. 
iv. Augustus, m. Miss Taylor, of Kentucky. 
v. Margaret, m. O. F. Mayonne. 
vi. Lucretia, d. at Halifax, Dauphin 

county, Pa.; unm. 
vii. Edward, 
viii. Charles. 

VII. Catharine Leebrick (George, John- 
Philip-Nicholas, John-Philip), b. January 1, 
1802, at Mifflinburg, Union county, Pa.; d. 
June 24, 1871 ; m., October 26, 1826, William 
Parsons, who d. March 23, 1842, at Halifax. 
They had issue (surname Parsons) : 

i. George- Leebrick. 
ii. William-H., m. Ellen Singer. 
Hi. John-Emery, m. Georgiana Parke, dau. 
of Benjamin Parke and Elizabeth 
Leebrick. 
iv. James- Mohr, m. Mary Meek. 

VIII. John Philip Leebrick (George, 
John-Philip-Nicholas, John-Philip), b. Feb" 
ruary 10, 1804, at Mifflinburg, Union countv 
Pa. ; d. April 24, 1862, at Halifax. Mr'" 
Leebrick was an enterprising and leading 
citizen of his adopted home. He built the 
section of the Wiconisco canal at Halifax ; 
was for many years director of the Harris- 
burg Bank, and succeeded his father in the 
mercantile trade. He m., February 17, 1831, 
Hannah Mary Parke, b. July 25, 1804, in 
Susquehanna county, Pa.; d. May 2, 1852, at 
Halifax, Pa.; dau. of Thomas Parke and Eu- 
nice Champlin. They had issue : 

i. Ellen, d. s. p. 
ii. John-Eberle, d. s. p. 
Hi. Louisa-Parke, 
iv. Anna-Mary, d. s. p. 
v. Henry- Clay, d. s. p. 
vi. George- Thomas, m. Sarah Noblet. dau. 
of Samuel Noblet and Susannah 
Ettin. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



131 



The Lehman Family. 

I. Martin Lehman was born January 1, 
1744, in Wiesbaden, Germany, coming to 
America with bis parents in 1746. The 
latter located in Berks county, Pa., on a 
tract of land north of Reading. Martin 
learned the trade of a carpenter, and after 
his marriage purchased some fifty acres near 
where the town of Pinegrove, Schuylkill 
county, is located. Here he built a log 
cabin, cut out doors and windows and re- 
moved there with his wife. The place was 
surrounded by wild beasts, and during the 
absence of Mr. Lehman, his wife would fre- 
quently rise from her bed and shoot from a 
rifle at the wolves to drive them away. 
Deer and other game were plentiful and 
supplied their table. Much of the time Mr. 
Lehman was employed building cabins in 
Lykens Valley. 

The soil, however, not being very produc- 
tive, in the year 1796 he removed to Lancas- 
ter county on a farm belonging to James 
Patterson who was then in his minority and 
under the guardianship of his brother 
Arthur. This farm lies on Little Chickies 
creek one half a mile east of the town of 
Mount Joy. Here he resided for a number 
of years. Martin Lehman d. September 13, 
1801. Frederica C, his wife, b. March 4, 
1751 ; d. September 8, 1822 ; both buried in 
Manheim, Lancaster county, Pa. Their chil- 
dren were : 

i. Catharine, b. November 23, 1773; d. 
June 17, 1844; m. Jacob Hiestand, 
b. November 12, 1767 ; d. June 27, 
1834; both buried in Mount Joy. 
They had one daughter who be- 
came the wife of Cliristian Heist- 
and, whose farm lies adjoining 
the village of Landisville, seven 
miles west of the city of Lancaster, 
on the pike to Harrisburg. Here 
they resided long enough to raise a 
family of ten children to mature 
age. These children all remained 
in that and the adjoining counties, 
except John, the eldest, who went 
to California and died there. Four 
are dead, and six survive of the de- 
scendants of Catharine. 
ii. Henry, b. December 19, 1775 ; d. June 
13, 1847 ; m. Margaret Oberlin ; 
both buried at Salem church, Salem 
township, Wayne county, 0. They 
had six children, to wit: Mary, 



David, Catharine, Sarah, John, and 
Elizabeth. Mary married George 
Johns, and had two children, when 
he died. Her second husband was 
William Beck and they had four 
children. She is now a widow. 
Two of her sons are preachers of 
the Gospel, and one lives in Ne- 
vada. The second of Henry's chil- 
dred, David, married Susan Bit- 
ner, and their children were Sarah 
Jacob, Christian, Elizabeth, Harriet, 
Mary, David, Henry, Daniel, and 
Simon. Henry's daughter Catha- 
rine married Benjamin Brubaker, 
and they had six sons and six 
daughters, of whom only David 
and Peter survive of the sons, and 
of the daughters, Leah, Sarah, and 
Fanny. Henry's daughter Sarah 
married S. Zimmerman and they 
had six sons and five daughters, of 
whom only Jacob, David, Fanny, 
Sarah, and Martha are living. The 
fifth member of Henry's family 
was John, who married Elizabeth 
Storet. They had five sons and three 
daughters, of whom John, Daniel, 
and Catharine are dead — Joseph, 
Henry, David, and Margaret surviv- 
ing their parents. Henry's daughter 
Elizabeth married David Switzer. 
They raised a family of nine chil- 
dren: Henry-R., Annie, John, Sarah, 
Harriet, Mary-Ann, Elizabeth, Da- 
vid, and Philena, all now living ex- 
cept Mary-Ann. 
Hi. Christian, b. May 28, 1778 ; d. August 

9, 1847; m. Nancy ; buried 

in Middletown, Dauphin county, 
Pa. They had a large family, but 
they nearly all died young, Henry- 
R. and Martin only surviving their 
parents. 
iv. George, b. June 11, 1781 ; d. Septem- 
ber 10, 1819; buried in Manheim, 
Pa.; m. M. Stohler, b. August 19, 
1787 ; d. December 19, 1881 ; buried 
at Des Moines, Iowa. Their chil- 
dren were : Henry, m. Miss Han- 
nah ; removed to Philadelphia ; left 
children : Louis, George, Alfred, 
Caroline, Amanda, and Emma ; 
Catharine, and Christianna. 
v. Mary, b. March 25, 1784; d. Decem- 
ber 16, 1860; buried at Salem 
church ; m. Adam Leister, d. April, 



132 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



1823; buried in old Lutheran grave- 
yard, Middletown, Pa. They had 
issue (surname Leister) : Nancy, m. 
Benjamin Leib, and they had issue 
(surname Leib): Daniel, Adam, 
William, Samuel, Sarah, Eliza, and 
Mary ; Christian, Martin, Henry, 
and Fanny, m. Levi Strayer, and 
they had (surname Strayer): Fanny, 
Mary, Catharine, John, and Sam- 
uel ; Abraham, and Catharine. 

vi. Martin, b. August 8, 1787; d. April 

14, 1863; m. Martin, b. 

January 24,1789; d. October 25, 
1861 ; buried in Napiersville, Du- 
page county, 111.; they had issue : 
John, Henry, d. s. p., Daniel, Fanny, 
resided in Clarion county, Pa., 
Catharine, Martha, resided in Lan- 
caster county, Catharine, resided in 
Progress, Dauphin county, and 
Eliza, d. s. p. 

vii. John, b. August 14, 1790; d. July 14, 
1886 ; m., first, Christina Smith, b. 
January 24, 1790 ; d. July 13, 1823; 
buried at Wooster, 0.; m., secondly, 

Nancy , b. Mav 25, 1802 ; d. 

August 28, 1867 ; buried at Salem 
church, Wayne county, 0. By his 
first wife John Lehman had one 
son and three daughters. By his 
second marriage there were twelve 
children. Of all this number the 
following survived their father: 
Benjamin, the eldest, in 1886 resid- 
ing in Vendura county, Cal., aged 
71 ; Cyrus-E., the youngest, residing 
in San Bernardino, Cal., aged 40 ; 
John-H., residing in St. Clair 
count} r , 111.; Martin-B., residing in 
St. Clair county, 111.; Ephraim, 
George, Maria, m. Albert Miller — 
these reside in Wayne county, O. ; 
Sarah, m. Mr. Trome, lives in 
Wooster, O.; Caroline, m. Dr. Foltz, 
resides in Akron, 0. 



ii. Frederick, b. 1734. 
Hi. Jacob, b. 1736. 

iv. Martin, b. 1738 ; m. Elizabeth ; 

resided in Paxtang in 1789. 
v. Nicholas, b. 1740. 
2. vi. Thomas, b. 1742 ; m. Anna Mary 



The Lingle Family. 

I. Paul Lingle, a native of Switzerland, 
of Huguenot ancestry, was born about 1709 ; 
emigrated to America, and settled in Tulpe- 
hocken township, Berks county, Pa., where 
he died about the first of June, 1786, leaving 
a wife Catharine, and children as follows : 
i. John,lb. 1732. 



vii. Mary, b. 1744 ; m. Jacob Sholl. 
viii. Conrad, b. 1746. 
ix. Stephen, b. 1748. 

3. x. Simon, b. 1750 ; m., and left issue. 
xi. Casper, b. 1753. 

II. Thomas Lingle (Paul), b. 1750, in 
Tulpehocken township, Berks county, Pa.; 
d. in November, 1811, at Linglestown ; m. 
Anna Mary , b. about 1753, in Tulpe- 
hocken township, Berks county, Pa.; d. at 
Linglestown. They had issue: 

4. i. Paul, b. January 24, 1775 ; m. Mary 

Spohn. 

5. ii. John, b. 1778 ; m. Barbara . 

6. Hi. David, b. December 29, 1781 ; m. 

Sarah Light. 
iv. Leonard, b. 1783. 
v. Anna-Mary (Maria), b. 1785 ; m., No- 
vember 29, 1813, Thomas Wenrick. 
vi. Christina, b. 1787. 
vii. Simon, b. 1789 ; m., March 7, 1811, 

Susanna Steener. 
viii. Joseph, b. 1791. 

7. ix. Thomas, b. 1793 ; m. Susanna Hinkel. 

x. Elizabeth, b. 1795 ; m. John Smith. 

III. Simon Lingle (Paul), b. about 1750 
in Tulpehocken township, Berks county, Pa.; 
d. in 1805 ; m., and had issue : 

8. i. Jacob, b. 1788 ; m., and left issue. 
ii. Thomas, b. 1790. 

Hi. John, b. 1792. 

iv. Samuel, b. 1794. 
v. Daniel, b. 1796. 

vi. Mary, b. 1798;_ 
vii. Betsy, b. 1800. 
viii. Catharine, b. 1802. 

ix. David, b. 1804. 

IV. Paul Lingle (Thomas, Paul), b. Jan- 
uary 24, 1775, in Dauphin county, Pa.; d. 
February 1, 1856, in Centre county, Pa.; m., 
January 8, 1800, Mary Spohn, b. March 31, 
1781, in Dauphin county, Pa.; d. October 14, 
1863, in Centre county, Pa.; daughter of Got- 
leib Spohn. They had issue: 

i. Mary, b. November 26, 1800 ; m., in 
1823, Samuel McNitt, of Mifflin 
county, Pa. 
ii. John, b. May 16, 1802 ; m. Sarah Mil- 
ler ; removed to Ohio. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



133 



Hi. Catharine, b. March 28, 1804 ; d. No- 
vember 16, 1804. 

iv. Simon, b. December 22, 1805 ; m. 
Susannah Kuhnes ; resided in Cen- 
tre county, Pa. 
v. Thomas, b. October 21, 1807 ; m., and 
in 1832 removed to Ohio, where he 
now resides. 

vi. Jane, b. July 8, 1809 ; m. John Baker; 

removed to Ohio. 
vii. Joseph-J., b. March 2, 1811 ; m., and 
removed to Centre county, Pa., 
where he was sheriff from 1851 to 
1854 ; resided at Bellefonte. 
viii. David, b. December 18, 1812 ; m., and 
removed to Iowa. 

V. John Lingle (Thomas, Paul), d. in 
November, 1823 ; leaving a wife Barbara, 
and issue as follows : 

i. Sarah, 
ii. Daniel. 
Hi. Levi, 
iv. John. 

VI. David Lingle (Thomas, Paul), b. 
December 29, 1781, in Paxtang township ; 
d. March 13, 1849, at Harrisburg, Pa.; m. 
Sarah Light, b. May 13, 1792, in Paxtang 
township ; d. March 1, 1869, at Rock Island, 
111. ; daughter of John Light. The}' had 
issue, all born at Harrisburg : 

i. Sarah, m. Samuel Berry and left 
issue. 

ii. Joseph, in., first, Ellen Horner, of 

Philadelphia ; secondly, 

Garverich ; thirdly, Sarah Steel. 
Hi. Mary, d. unm. 

iv. John-Light, m., first, Sarah Forney, 
of Lancaster ; secondly, Rebecca 
Prowell. 

v. Rebecca, d. s. p. 

vi. David, d. 1878, at Chicago, 111. ; m. 
Regina Bowman, daughter of Sam- 
uel Bowman, of Cumberland. 

VII. Thomas Lingle (Thomas, Paul), d. 
November, 1821; m., May 24, 1814, Susanna 
Hinkel (who in 1831 was the wife of Peter 
Honies). They had issue : 

i. John, residing in Philadelphia. 
ii. Thomas. 

Hi. Mary, m. Joseph Light, of Swatara. 
iv. Joseph, b. 1810, of Philadelphia. 
v. William, b. 1812. 
vi. Simon, b. 1814. 
vii. Isaac, b. 1820; d. s. p. 

VIII. Jacob Lingle (Simon, Thomas, 



Paul), b. in 1788 ; d. July 20, 1847 ; m., 
and had issue: 
i. Benjamin. 

ii. Barbara, m. William Ewing. 
Hi. Catharine, 
iv. Eve. 
v. Anna, 
vi. David. 

ix. Elizabeth, b. January 25, 1815 ; m. 
Amos V. Patten ; settled in Mich- 
igan. 
x. William, b. March 8, 1817 ; m. and 
removed to Ohio, where he died 
some twenty vears ago. 
xi. Ann-M., b. March 4, 1819; m. Will- 
iam Williams, of Clinton county, 
Pa. 
xii. Alexander, b. February 29, 1821 ; m., 

and resided at Halifax. 
xiii. Oeorge-W., b. April 6, 1823 ; in., and 
resided near Beech Creek, Clinton 
county, Pa. 
xiv. James, b. November 9, 1825 ; m., and 
resided near Milesburg, Centre 
county, Pa. 



McClures of Paxtang and Hanover. 

I. Richard McClure, an emigrant from 
the north of Ireland, settled prior to 1730 in 
Paxtang township, then Lancaster count} - , 
Province of Pennsylvania, where he took up 
a tract of six hundred acres of land. Of his 
children, all born in Ireland, we have* the 
following : 

2. i. Thomas. 

3. ii. Charles. 

4. Hi. John. 

5. iv. Richard. 

II. Thomas McClure, son of Richard 
McClure, b. in north of Ireland ; d. in 1765, 
in Paxtang, whence he emigrated ; m. Mary 

who d. April, 1773, in Hanover. 



They had issue : 

i. John, m. Mary 



, in 1773. They 



resided in Mt. Pleasant township, 

York county, Pa. 
ii. William. 
Hi. Mary, m., February 6, 1759, Joseph 

Sherer. 
iv. Martha, m. Andrew Wilson. 
v. Jean, m. James Burney. 
vi. Thomas, m. Mary Harvey. 

III. Charles McClure (Richard), b. prior 
to 1761, leaving a wife Eleanor, and chil- 
dren as follows : 



134 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



i. Arthur. 
ii. Rebecca. 
Hi. Jennett. 
iv. William, 
v. John, 
vi. Martha, 
vii. Eleanor, 
viii. Charles. 
ix. Margaret. 

IV John McClure (Richard), b. in 1762, 

in Hanover ; m. Margery . They 

had issue : 

i. James, b. 1733 ; d. November 14, 1805, 

in Hanover; m. Mary Espy. 
ii. William. 

Hi. Jane, m. William Waugh. 
iv. Ann. 

V Richard McClure (Richard), m., and 
left issue : 

i. Alexander, m. Martha . 

7. ii, William, m. Margaret Wright. 

8. Hi. Jonathan, m. Sarah Hays. 

iv Andrew, m. Margaret . 

v. Roan, removed to White Deer Valley, 
Northumberland county ; d. Octo- 
ber 8, 1833 ; m. Hannah , 

d. August 20, 1828. 
vi. Margaret, m., September 7, 1757, John 

Steel. 
vii. David, m. Margaret Lecky. 
viii. Katharine, m. Robert Fruit. 

VI. Thomas McClure (Thomas, Richard), 
d. January, 1778, in Hanover ; m., in 1761, 
Mary Harvey. They had issue : 

i. William, m. Agnes Lewis. 
ii. Thomas. 
Hi. Martha, m. Andrew Wilson, and had 

Martha, 
iv. Mary, m. James George. 
v. Sarah, m. Daniel McGuire. 
vi. Jean, m. Samuel Moor. 

VII. William McClure (Richard, Rich- 
ard), d. April, 1785, in Paxtang ; m. Marga- 
ret Wright, daughter of Robert Wright. 
They had issue : 

i. Robert, b. December 18, 1763 ; m- 

Priscilla . 

ii. Rebecca, m. Peter Sturgeon. 
Hi. Mary, m. Samuel Russell. 
■iv. Sarah, m. David Riddle, of York 

county, Pa. 
v. Margaret, m. James Crain. 
vi. Jean, b. 1788 ; d. December 21, 1876, 
in Buffalo Valley. 



VIII. Jonathan McClure (Richard, 
Richard), b. 1745, in Paxtang ; d. December 
11, 1799; m., November 10, 1768, Sarah 
Hays, of Derry. They had issue : 

i. Roan, removed to Buffalo Valley. 
ii. Mary. 
Hi. Matthew, 
iv. Jonathan. 
v. Sarah. 



A Mitchell Family. 

I. Joseph Mitchell, b. October 22, 1783 ; 
d. February 12, 1832 ; m., May 5, 1808, Eliza- 
beth Zearing,* b. December 13, 1789, at Leba- 
non ; d. June 4, 1859, at Harrisburg, and 
with her husband there buried. They had 
issue : 

i. Joseph, b. April 10, 1809 ; d. s. p. 

2. ii. Susan, b. September 5, 1810; m. Moses 

Sullivan. 

3. Hi. John, b. July 31, 1813 ; m. Julia Light- 

ner. 

4. iv. William, b. September 17, 1814; m. 

Angelica Ehrman. 

5. v. Henry- Zearing, b. November 30, 1816; 

m. Elizabeth Cannon. 

6. vi. Mary- Elizabeth, b. December 15, 1818; 

m. Andrew Cams. 

7. vii. Rev. James, b. February 18, 1822 ; in. 

. Mary A. Allen. 

8. viii. Lewis- Zearing, b. December 12, 1824 ; 

in. Anna McBride. 

II. Susan Mitchell (Joseph), b. Septem- 

* Elizabeth Zearing was the daughter of Henry 
Zearing (1760-1798) and Maria Elizabeth Rupp 
(1762-1836). They resided near Jonestown. They 
had children : 

i. Henry, b. September 26, 1783; d. February 
21, 1830; m. Margaret Ely, b. March 1, 
1781 ; d. July 28, 1865. 
ii. Jonas, b. May 4, 1785 : d. December 20, 1831 ; 
m. Anna Barbara Evers, b. in 1795; d. 
September 26, 1860. 
Hi. Lewis, b. January 15, 1787 ; d. May 8, 1845; 
m. Elizabeth Bobb, b. January 10, 1792 ; 
d. March 24, 1809. 
iv. Elizabeth, b. December 13, 1789 : d. June 4, 
1859; m. Joseph Mitchell, b. October 22, 
1783; d. February 12, 1832. 
v. Jacob, b. November 6, 1790 ; m. Susan Peter- 
man, b. March 27, 1789 ; d. March 7, 1836. 
vi. John, b. September 20. 1792; d. October 5, 
1846 ; m. Margaret Herman, b. August 28, 
1793 ; d. October 17, 1859. 
vii. Martin, b. July 4, 1794; d. July 24, 1855 ; m. 
Sarah Shafer, b. May 9, 1797 ; d. Febru- 
ary 4, 1869. 
viii. David, b. May 7, 1796 ; d. s. p. 
ix. Anna-Maria (posthumous), b. March 17, 
1798 ; d. s. p. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



135 



ber 5, 1810, in Dauphin county, Pa.; m. 
Moses Sullivan, b. October 9, 1786; d. May 
29, 1839, at Butler; son of Charles Sullivan, 
of Butler, Pa. Mr. Sullivan edited a news- 
paper at Butler, was a member of the Penn- 
sylvania House of Representatives three 
years and of the Senate eight years ; and 
from 1835 to 1838 canal commissioner under 
the administration of Governor Ritner. They 
had issue (surname Sullivan): 

i. Aaron, lieutenant of Ninth regiment, 
Pennsylvania cavalry, and died 
from wounds received in battle. 
ii. Mary. 
Hi. Moses, d. s. p. 

III. John Mitchell (Joseph), b. July 31, 
1813, in Dauphin county, Pa.; m. Julia 
Lightner, b. September 3, 1826, daughter of 
Isaac Lightner. They had issue : 

i. William,, 
ii. Louisa, d. s. p. 
Hi. Mary- A. 

iv. Melvina, m. Carl L. Shulten. 
v. Morrison. 

IV. William Mitchell (Joseph), b. Sep- 
tember 17, 1814, at Harrisburg, Pa.; d. De- 
cember 16, 1884, at Harrisburg, Pa., and 
there buried; in. Angelica Ehrman, daughter 
of Christian Ehrman and Mary F. Etzler. 
They had issue : 

i. Mary-Augusta, m. Rev. Solomon Hub- 
bard Hoover. 

ii. William-Sullivan, d. s. p. 

Hi. Ehrman- Buckman, b. April 11, 1854; 
graduated from Dickinson College 
in 1874 ; admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar in 1875 ; was elected 
prothonotary of Dauphin county 
in 1879 and re-elected in 1882 ; is 
now in the active practice of his 
profession. 

iv. Samuel- Morion, d. s. p. 

V. Henry Zearing Mitchell (Joseph), 
b. November 30, 1816 ; m. Elizabeth Cannon, 
of Pittsburgh, Pa. They had issue: 

i. William- Bell, 
ii. Mary- Cannon. 
Hi. James-Swisshelm. 
iv. Jenny- Gray, 
v. Charles-Sumner. 

VI. Mary Elizabeth Mitchell (Joseph), 
b. December 15, 1818; m. Andrew Cams, 
b. February 21, 1814 ; d. December 27, 1865, 
in Mercer county, 111. They had issue (sur- 
name Cams): 



i. Henry -Mitchell, d. s. p. 
ii. John- Crawford, d. s. p. 
Hi. Andrew, m. Harriet Walker. 

VII. James Mitchell (Joseph), b. Febru- 
ary 18, 1822; a minister in the M. E. 
Church ; in. Mary A. Allen, daughter of 
Seth Harding Allen and Elizabeth Vanhorn. 
They had issue: 

i. G.-W.-Lybrand. 
ii. Edwin- Waterman. 
Hi. Ida- Allen, 
iv. Laura-Reamy. 

v. Sarah- Geiger. 

VIII. Lewis Zearing Mitchell (Joseph), 
b. September 12, 1824 ; an attorney-at-law ; 
member of the Constitutional Convention of 
1873. from Butler county; m. Anna Mc- 
Bride, of Butler. They had issue : 

i. Mary-Elizabeth. 

ii. Sarah-Jane. 
Hi. Joseph, 
iv. Lewis-Heiner. 

v. George, d. s. p. 
to. Frank, d. s. p. 
vii. Henry- Zearing, d. s. p. 
viii. Paul. 
ix. William, d. s. p. 

x. Aaron, d. s. p. 



m. 


A dau. 


iv. 


A dau. 


v. 


A dau. 



The Nissley Family. 

I. Jacob Nissley, the original settler of 
the family, emigrated to America from the 
Palatinate, Germany, at an early date, locat- 
ing in now Mt. Joy township, Lancaster 
county, Pa. He had issue : 

2. i. John, m. a Seegrist. 

3. ii. Martin, m., first, a Snyder; secondly, 

a Stauffer. 

, m. a Buhrman. 

m. a Ebersole. 
, m. a Stewart. 

II. John Nissley (Jacob), m., and had 
issue : 

i. Michael, b. 1742. 
ii. Abraham, b. 1744. 
Hi. Rev. John, b. 1746 ; m. a Hertzler. 

5. iv. Jacob, b. 1748. 

v. Fanny, b. 1759 ; m., first, a Frantz ; 
secondly, a Lang ; thirdlv, a Hiest- 
and ; d. 1813. 

6. to. Rev. Samuel, b. 1761 ; in., first, Bar- 

bara Kreider ; secondly, Anna 
(Mumma) Kreider; thirdly, Maria 
(Long) Holm. 



136 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



vii. Martin, b. 1763 ; m. a Lehman. 

III. Martin Nissley (Jacob), of Mt. Joy, 
was twice married; first, to a Snyder; 
secondly, to a Stauffer. There was issue: 

7. i. Martin, b. 1747 ; d. 1799 ; m. Barbara 

Reist. 
ii. John, b. 1750; d. 1819; m., first, Ger- 
trude Shearer ; secondly, Eliza Neff. 
Hi. Anna, b. 1752 ; d. 1817 ; m. Abraham 

Stauffer, of Fayette county, Pa. 
iv. Fanny, b. 1756; d. 1840; m. J. Shal- 

lenberger, of Ohio. 
v. Christian, b. 1759 ; d. 1822 ; m., first, 

a Stauffer; secondly, Catharine 

Bossier. 
vi. Barbara, m. a Shelly. 
vii. Maria, b. 1763 ; d. 1811 ; m. Christian 

Musser. 

IV. Rev. John Nissley (John, Jacob), b. 
1746 in Mt. Joy township, Lancaster county, 
Pa.; d. in 1825, in Pax tang, Dauphin county, 
Pa. He m. Barbara Hertzler; and they had 
issue : 

i. John, m. an Ober. 

8. ii. Martin, b. 1786; d. 1868; m. Veronica 

Landis. 
Hi. Maria, m., first, a Frantz; secondly, 
Rudolph Martin. 

9. iv. Jacob, m., first, a Nissley; secondly, 

Catharine Eagl}'. 

V. Jacob Nissley (John, Jacob), b. 1748 
in Mt. Joy township, Lancaster county, Pa. 
d. February, 1804, in Dauphin county, Pa. 
m. Elizabeth . They had issue: 

10. i. Martin, m. a Kreider. 

ii. Maria, b. 1784; m. a Bear. 
Hi. Fanny, b. 1789; m., April 11, 1809, 

Christian Mumma. 
iv. Elizabeth, b. 1794; m., first, a Long; 

secondly, a Hershey. 

VI. Kev. Samuel Nissley (John, Jacob), 
b. 1761 ; d. August, 1838 ; m., first, Barbara 
Kreider. They had issue : 

11. i. John, b. December 9, 1786, in Rapho 

township, Lancaster county, Pa.; 
m. Anna Hershey. 

12. ii. Martin, b. November 6, 1788; m. Anna 

Bomberger. 

13. Hi. Samuel, b. June 24, 1792; m. Anna 

Eby. 

14. iv. Rev. Christian, b. October 20, 1794; 

m. Magdalena Bomberger. 
Rev. Samuel Nissley m., secondly, Anna 
(Mumma) Kreider. They had issue : 

v. Fanny (Veronica), b. in 1798 ; m. 
Jonas Eby. 



vi. Jacob, b. December 11, 1800, of Sport- 
ing Hill, Lancaster county, Pa.; m. 
Barbara Witmer. 
vii. Henry, b. in 1805 ; d. May, 1841 ; m. 

Mary Nissley. 
Rev. Samuel Nissley m., thirdly, Maria 
(Long) Hohn ; no issue. 

VII. Martin Nissley, Jr. (Martin, Ja- 
cob), of Mount Joy township, Lancaster 
county, Pa.; b. 1747; d. 1799; m. Barbara 
Reist. They had issue : 

i. Anna, b. 1774; d. 1856; m. Jacob 
Stauffer. 

15. ii. Rev. Christian, b. 1777 ; d. 1831 ; m. 

Maria Kreybill. 
Hi. Barbara, b. 1780; d. 1799. 
iv. Rev. Martin, b. 1784; d. 1834; m. 

Anna Witmer. 
v. Peter, b. 1787 ; d. 1799. 
vi, Veronica, b. 1792 ; d. 1799. 

VIII. Martin Nissley (John, John, Ja- 
cob), of Middletown, b. 1786; d. 1868; m. 
Veronica Landis. They had issue : 

i. Nancy, b. 1808 ; d. 1841. 

ii. John, b. 1810 ; m. a Heiges. 
Hi. Martin, b. 1812. 

iv. Felix, b. 1814; d. January, 1864; m. 
Mary . 

v. Mary, b. 1816 ; d. 1847. 

vi. Fanny, b. 1820. 
vii. Isaac, b. 1822. 
viii. Solomon, b. 1825. 

ix. Jacob, b. 1828. 

x. Joseph-Herman, b. 1831. 

IX. Jacob Nissley (John, John, Jacob), 
d. December, 1829, in Swatara township ; 
was twice married ; m., secondly, Catharine 
Eagly, daughter of Abraham and Susanna 
Eagly. They had issue : 

16. i. Jacob, m. Barbara Hoffman. 
ii. Barbara, m. a Snavely ; d. s. p. 
Hi. Martin, m. Mary Hoffman. 

iv. Susanna, m. Michael Barnhard. 
v. Abraham, m., and removed to Indiana. 

X. Martin Nissley (Jacob, John, Jacob), 
of Paxtang ; m. a Kreider. They had issue : 

i. John, d. May, 1832 ; m. a Roop. 
ii. Samuel, m. Nancy Wissler. 
Hi. Maria, m. a Heiges. 
iv. Catharine, m. an Overholt. 

XL John Nissley (Samuel, John, Jacob), 
of Rapho township, Lancaster county, b. De- 
cember 9, 1786; m. Anna Hershey. They 
had issue : . 

i. Elizabeth, b. 1808; m. C. Newcomer. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



137 



ii. Nancy, b. 1810 ; d. 1866; m. Levi Eby. 
Hi. Fanny, b. 1812 ; in. C. Nolt. 
iv. John, b. 1819 ; m. Barbara Gerber. 
v. Catharine, b. 1827; m. John Musser. 
vi. Sarah, b. 1829 ; d. 1843. 

XII. Martin Nissley (Samuel, John, 
Jacob), of Rapho, b. November 6, 1788; m., 
ill 1810, Anna Bomberger, b. February 28, 
1791. They had issue : 

i. Magdalena, b. June 25, 1814 ; m. Lem. 

Brubaker. 
ii. Barbara, b. February 11, 1818 ; d. 

May 13, 1868 ; m. Joseph Witmer 

Nissley. 
Hi. Nancy (Anna), b. August 22, 1819 ; d. 

1845 ; m. Emanuel Cassel. 
iv. Fanny, b. December 3, 1821 ; m. Jacob 

Witmer Snyder. 
v. Maria, b. June 17, 1824; m. Benjamin 

Musser. 

XIII. Samuel Nissley (Samuel, John, 
Jacob), of Rapho, b. January 24, 1792 ; m. 
Anna Eby. They had issue : 

i. Henry, b. 1814; d. 1851 ; m. Ann Hos- 
tetter. 
ii. Fanny, b. 1816; m. Samuel Snyder. 
Hi. Christian, b. 1818; m. Fanny Brenne- 

man. 
iv. Samuel, b. 1818 ; m., first. Anna Long ; 

secondly, Maria Hershey. 
v. Jonas, b. 1821 ; d. 1848. 
vi. Benjamin, b. 1823 ; m. Susan Stauffer. 
vii. Catharine, 
viii. David, m. a Rutt. 

XIV. Rev. Christian Nissley (Samuel, 
John, Jacob), of Chiques, b. October 20, 1794; 
m. Magdalena Bomberger. They had issue: 

i. Samuel, b. 1817 ; d. 1824. 
ii. Joseph, b. 1821; m. Martha Sherch. 
Hi. Christian, b. 1825 ; d. 1844. 
iv. Martin-B., b. 1829. 
v. Martha, m. Andrew Gerber. 

XV. Rev. Christian Nissley (Martin, 
Jacob), b. 1 777, in Mount Joy township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa.; d. 1831; m. Maria Krey- 
bill. They had issue : 

17. i. John, b. 1800 ; m. Barbara Snyder. 

18. ii. Rev. Peter, b. 1802; m., first, a Wit- 

mer; secondly, a Kreider; thirdly, 
a Sherch. 

19. Hi. Jacob, b. 1808 ; d. 1862 ; m. Elizabeth 

Kreybill. 
iv. Barbara, b. 1812 ; d. s. p. 

XVI. Jacob Nissley (Jacob, John, John, 



Jacob), m. Barbara Hoffman, and removed 
to Crawford county, Pa. They had issue : 
i. Mary-Ann, m. William Stough, of 

Erie. 
ii. Christian-Joseph. 
Hi. Jacob- Hoffman, d. s. p. 
iv. John-K., m. and removed to Iowa. 
v. Frances, m. George Spitler. 
vi. Amanda- Elizabeth, m. Abraham 

Henry. 
vii. Clara, m. David Espy. 
viii. William- 0. 

XVII. John Nissley (Christian, Martin, 
Jacob), b. 1800 ; m. Barbara Snj'der. They 
had issue : 

i. Henry-S., m. Anna B. Reist. 
ii. Mary-S., m. Martin W. Nissley. 
Hi. Fanny-S., m. C. K. Hostetter. 
iv. Christian-S., m. Mary N. Eby. 

v. Sarah-S. 

vi. John-E., m. Sarah N. Eby. 
vii. Barbara-S., m. Samuel S. Garver. 

XVIII. Rev. Peter Nissley (Christian, 
Martin, Jacob), b. 1802 ; was thrice married, 
first, to a Witmer; secondly, to a Kreider; 
thirdly, to a Sherch ; and there was issue : 

■ i. Mary-K., m. Solomon L. Swartz. 

ii. Esther-K., d. s. p. 
Hi. John-K., m. Maria B. Reist. 

iv. Leah-K., m. David L. Miller. 

v. Christian- Iv., d. s. p. 
. vi. Barbara-K., m. C. F. Hostetter. 
vii. Catharine-K., d. s. p. 
viii. Anna-K., d. s. p. 

XIX. Jacob Nissley (Christian, Martin. 
Jacob), b. 1808; d. 1862, in Mount Joy town- 
ship, Lancaster county, Pa.; m. Elizabeth 
Kreybill. They had issue : 

i. Christian, d. s. p. 

ii. Jacob-K., m. Anna Rissor. 
Hi. Martha, m. Elias Eby. 

iv. ^Imos, d. s. p. 

ii. Barbara, m. Jonas E. Hostetter. 

vi. Mary, d. s. p. 

vii. Catharine, m. Michael H. Engle. 
viii. Elizabeth, m. David Rutt. 
ix. Anna, m. Jacob Good. 

x. Samuel, d. s. p. 

xi. Rebecca, m. Jacob Mamma. 
xii. Simm-K. 

Owing to the constant repetition of the 
baptismal or christian names in this, as well 
as other families, it is a difficult matter to 
dovetail them. For instance, the following 



138 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



which is difficult to connect with the pre- 
ceding : 

Abraham Nissley, d. 1823 ; removed from 
Conoy to Franklin county, Pa., in 1800; m., 
and had issue : 

i. Elizabeth, m. Samuel Ott. 
ii. Jacob, m. Susan Rutt. 
Hi. Mary, m. Jacob Leidig. 
iv. Herman, m. Eliza Witmer. 
v. Joseph, m. Sarah Schwartz. 
to. Fanny, b. 1800 ; d. 1838 ; m. Abraham 
Metz. 



Renick of Paxtang. 

I. Thomas Renick, a native of Ireland, 
came with his family to America in 1733. 
On the 27th of March, 1738, he took out a 
warrant for 326 acres in Paxtang township, 
where he had first settled. This land ad- 
joined lands of William Ritchey and Thomas 
Mayes. Of his family we have the record 
only of one son. 

II. William Renick (Thomas), b. about 
1740 in Ireland ; d. prior to 1763, in Pax- 
tang, for on the 5th of January that year his 
estate was divided ; and the children sever- 
ally released their claims against the estate 
of their father to their brother Henry. The 
family at that date were : 

3. i. Henry, b. 1725 ; m. Martha Wilson. 

4. ii. Thomas, b. 1730 ; m. Jean . 

Hi. Margaret, b. 1733 ; resided in Cum- 
berland county, Pa. 

iv. Alexander, b. 1736; resided in Cum- 
berland county, Pa. 
v. Samuel, b. 1738 ; resided in Cumber- 
land county, Pa.; m., and had a 
son William. 

to. William, b. 1740 ; resided in Frederick 
county, Md.; m., and had a son 
William. 

vii. James, b. 1742 ; resided in Trenton, 
West Jersey. 

III. Henry Renick (William, Thomas), 
b. December 2, 1725, in the north of Ireland ; 
m., in 1750, Martha Wilson. They had 
issue: 

i. William, b. Monday, October 6, 1749; 
d. March, 1776. 

ii. Sarah, b. Tuesday, October 15, 1751 ; 
d. March 12, 1823; m. John Wil- 
son, b. 1750; d. November 11, 1800. 

Hi. Mary, b. Saturday, August 24, 1754. 

iv. Martha, b. Saturday, November 30, 
1755; m. William Swan. 



v.Esther, b. August 31, 1758; m., De- 
cember 14, 1784, Robert Foster, b. 
1758; d. January 20, 1834, in Buf- 
falo Valley, and left issue. 

m. Margaret, b. September 12, 1760 ; d. s. p. 

IV. Thomas Renick (William, Thomas), 
b. about 1730 in the north of Ireland ; d. in 
April, 1777, in Paxtang ; m. Jean Clark, 
daughter of Robert and Jean Clark, of Upper 
Paxtang; d. in May, 1782. They had issue: 
i. Mary, m. Hugh Miller. 
ii. Jean, m. Thomas Branson. 
Hi. John, d. May, 1784 ; unm.; directing 
liis estate to be divided between his 
four sisters and his cousin, Esther 
Renick. 
iv. Margaret, 
v. Ann, m. Robert Boyd. 



The Sawyer Family. 

I. William Sawyer, a native of Ireland, 
settled on the Kennebec, in Maine, in the 
fall of 1717. Whether his father ever came 
to Pennsylvania is doubtful, but Will- 
iam located in Lancaster county, Derry town- 
ship, prior to 1735. He was born in 1703 
and died October 18, 1784. In old Derry 
church graveyard is this inscription : 

In memory of | William Saw- | yer, who 
de- \ parted this Life ] Ocio'r the 18 1784- \ in 
the 81st year \ of his age. 

His wife Sophia (maiden name not 
known), b. in 1705 ; d. September 9, 1788, 
and is buried by his side. They had issue, 
all b. in Derry township, among others : 

2. i. John, b. 1729 ; m. Jean Allen. 

ii. Hannah, b. April 21, 1731 ; d. October 
26, 1806 ; in. John Logan, b. 1729; 
d. February 21, 1788; and there 
was issue (surname Logan) : 

1. Thomas. 

2. William. 

3. John. 

4. Margaret, m. a Willson. 

5. Mary, m. Samuel McCleery. 
Hi. James, b. 1733. 

3. iv. Benjamin, b. 1735 ; m. Margaret 



v. Thomas, b. 1737 ; m., March 30, 1762, 

Margaret McCallen. 
to. [A dau.~\, m. William Duncan and 
had William. 
4. vii. William, b. 1741 ; m. Jean Willson. 

II. John Sawyer (William), b. 1729 ; d. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



139 



1812; m., October 27, 1757, Jean Allen, b. 
1736; dau. of William and Elizabeth Allen, 
of Hanover. They had issue : 

■i. Joseph, b. 1758 ; in. Elizabeth ; 

removed to Preble county, Ohio, 
and died there. 
ii. John, m. Mary Bell, of Hanover. 
Hi. William, 
iv. Jane, b. 1764; d. November 29,1803; 

m. Robert Geddes. 
v. Elizabeth, m. John Boal. 
vi. Sophia. 

There were other daughters. One mar- 
ried James Johnston, remuved in 1727 to 
Fountain county, Ind., and died there. One 
m. John McCord, and removed in 1827 to 
Preble county, Ohio. One m. John Allen, 
and another William Sawyer, a cousin. 
Concerning the latter, we have the follow- 
ing information: 

Some years after their marriage William 
Sawyer and bis wife became thoroughly con- 
vinced that their marriage was wrong and 
agreed finalty to separate. Accordingly their 
farm was sold and the proceeds divided. 
Both loved each other dearly, and when the 
time came for separation the ordeal was a se- 
vere one. After embracing his wife he would 
go a short distance, then return, and so con- 
tinued for some time, when at last, amid 
tears, he passed out of view. William Saw- 
yer went to the then far West, engaged in 
boating on the Ohio, and was subsequently 
drowned in the Kanawha river while taking 
down a boat load of salt. The widow of 
William Sawyer married Joseph Clokey, who 
left Ireland at the time of the Rebellion of 
'98, immediately after the battle of Belany- 
Hinch. " I was quite a boy," wrote the late 
Samuel Barnett, of Springfield, in 1867, " at 
the time, but remember hearing all about 
the case. He escaped almost by miracle to 
this country." Mr. Clokey's daughter Eliza 
came subsequently to this country. She mar- 
ried a Mr. Hughes, near Canonsburg, Pa., 
and deceased there, leaving two or three chil- 
dren. Mrs. Clokey was a cousin of my 
mother's. She had by this second marriage 
two sons and one daughter. The daughter 
married Rev. Mr. Wilson, of Canonsburg, 
and died about 1866. Mr. Clokey removed 
from where he lived, near Hanover church, 
to Canonsburg, about 1813 or 1814. Both 
Mr. and Mrs. Clokey deceased there a number 
of years ago. Their son, John Clokey, mar- 
ried and had a family. His widow resides 



in Springfield, Ohio. Joseph Clokey, the 
other son, took a college course at Canons- 
burg, studied theology, joined the Associate 
Reformed Church at the time the union was 
consummated between the Associate and the 
Associate Reformed Church, now the United 
Presbyterian Church. He afterwards became 
professor of pastoral theology in the United 
Theological Seminarv at Xenia, Ohio. He 
has been twice married. His first wife was a 
Patterson, by whom he had a son and daugh- 
ter. The former died at Springfield, Ohio ; 
the daughter married a Mr. Henry, and re- 
moved to Illinois. Dr. Clokey married, sec- 
ondly, a Mrs. Waddell, from near Wheeling, 
by whom he had three sons and two daugh- 
ters. One son is preaching at Steubenville, 
Ohio ; another at Indianapolis, and the third 
is a lawyer." The Rev. Dr. Clokey was the 
oldest minister in Springfield at the time this 
letter of Mr. Barnett's was written and con- 
sidered an able divine. 

III. Benjamin Sawyer (William), b- 
about 1735 in Derry township, then Lancas- 
ter, now Londonderry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa.; d. February 5, 1792. He mar- 
ried Margaret , b. 1737; d. 1796; and 

they had issue : 

i. Thomas, m., and had William, Jr., m. 

Mary . 

ii. William. 
Hi. James. 
iv. Hannah. 

IV. William Sawyer (William), b. about 
1741, in Derry township, Lancaster county, 
now Londonderry township, Dauphin 
county; d. August 20, 1785. He m., Octo- 
ber 1, 1761, by Rev. John Roan, Jean Will- 
son. After Mr. Sawyer's death she married 
David Miskimmins. They had issue: 

i. Mary, m. William Crain. 
ii. Margaret, m. Archibald Boyd. 
Hi. Joseph, b. 1773 ; d. February 28, 1789; 

buried in Derry churchyard. 
iv. William, m. Esther Rogers. 
v. Elizabeth, m. Alexander Weir. 



Shellys of Shelly's Island. 

I. Daniel Shelly, a native of Switzer- 
land, emigrated to America prior to 1740, 
and settled in Rapho township, Lancaster 
county, Pa. We have the names of only 
three of his children — of one of whom, the 
principal proprietor of " Rich Island," known 



140 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



afterwards as Shelly's Island, only have we 
data beyond the first generation. These 
children were : 

2. i. Christian, m., and left issue. 

3. ii. Daniel, in., and left issue. 

4. Hi. Jacob, m., and left issue. 

II. Christian Shelly (Daniel), b. about 

1730. in Switzerland ; d. prior to 1785, in 

» Rapho township, Lancaster county, Pa.; left 

a wife Magdalena, who d. in 1796, and the 

following issue : 

i. Peter, d. about 1790, unm. 

ii. Jacob, m. Barbara , of Mt. Joy 

township, Lancaster county. 
Hi. Abraham, in. Catharine 



of 
Rapho township, Lancaster county. 

iv. Christian, m. Elizabeth — , of Mt. 

Joy township, Lancaster county. 
v. Magdalena, in. Christian Martin, of 

Earl township, Lancaster county. 
vi. Barbara, m. Peter Snevely, of Lebanon 

township. 
vii. Mary, m. Christian Wisler. 
viii. Ann, m. Mark Martin. 
ix. Elizabeth, m. Samuel Myer, Jr., of 
Rapho township. 

III. Daniel Shelly (Daniel), b. about 
1737; d. in June, 1802, on Shelly's Island, 
in the Susquehanna; was married three or 
four times — in 1776, wife Elizabeth — in 1774, 
wife Catharine — in 1794, wife Barbara. He 
left the following children : 

5. i. Jacob, b. 1762 ; m. Anne . 

6. ii, Abraham, b. 1764; m. Rebecca 



7. 



in. Daniel, b. 1766. 

iv. Catharine, b. 1769 ; m. Joseph Rife. 

8. v. John, b. 1774 ; m., and had issue. 

vi. Nancy, b. 1776 ; m. Henry Etter, son 

of Henry and Eve Etter, of Derry. 
vii. Elizabeth, b. 1779 ; m. Jacob Bear. 

9. viii. Wendle, b. 1781 ; m. Ann Rife. 

10. ix. Susannah, b. 1783 ; m. Henry Rife. 

x.Mary (Polly), b. 1785; m. Henry 

Sharrer, of Paxtang. 
xi. Rachel, b. 1787; m. Mr. Brenneman, 
of Lebanon, Ohio. 

IV. Jacob Shelly (Daniel), b. about 
1740; d. prior to 1790; his widow Mary in 
1790 was the wife of Peter Bowman, of 
Hempfield township, Lancaster county, Pa. 
The issue of Jacob and Mary Shelly were: 

i. Jacob, m. Margaretta . 

ii. Mary, m. John Grouss. 
Hi. Barbara. 



V. Jacob Shelly (Daniel, Daniel), b. 
about 1762, in York county, Pa.; d. in De- 
cember, 1801, in Londonderry township, 

Dauphin county Pa.; m. Anne , b. 

1766 ; d. January, 1828. They had issue : 

i. Isaac, b. 1786 ; d. July, 1839 ; m., and 
had Jacob, d. at York, Pa., Samuel, of 
Adams county, Isaac, unm., Eliza- 
beth, d. s. p., and Nancy (Ann), m. 
S. H. Milligan. 

ii. Elizabeth, b. 1788. 

11. in. Daniel,h. 1790 ; m., and had Ephraim 

and Daniel, 
iv. Nancy, b. 1792; d. prior to 1811. 
v. Polly, b. 1794. 

VI. Abraham Shelly (Daniel, Daniel), 
b. about 1764; d. prior to June, 1815, in 
Londonderry township ; m., about 1790, Re- 
becca . They had issue : 

12. i. Elizabeth, b. 1790 ; in. William 

Reeser. 

13. ii. Catharine, b. 1792; m. Martin Crall. 

14. Hi. Nancy, b. 1794; m. George Etter. 

15. iv. Polly (Mary), b. 1796 ; m. Henry 

Smith. 

VII. Daniel Shelly (Daniel, Daniel), b. 
about 1766; m. Elizabeth Shunian. They 
had issue : 

i. John, in., and had Samuel, Elizabeth, 

m. Mr. Bear, John, and Christian, 
ii. Daniel, m., and had Ann, m. Mr. Mil- 
ler, Henry, and Mary, d. s. p. 
Hi. Elizabeth, m., John Sheaffer, of Lan- 
caster, Pa., and had Bartram-A., 
Ella, and Susan, 
iv. Jacob, m., and had Christian, Mary, 

and Nancy, 
v. Wendle, m., and had Daniel and Leah, 

m. George Souders. 
vi. Abraham, d. s. p. 
vii. Mary, d. s. p. 

viii. Christian, m., and had Lydia, Adeline, 
m. Mr. Hoke, of Harrisburg, Oliver, 
Christian- W., Henrietta, m. George 
R. Winger, Catharine, d. s. p., and 
Daniel. 
ix. Abraham, m., and had Elizabeth, in. 
Mr. Kass, Catharine, m. Mr. Bear, 
Bartram, Henry, Albert, Walter, Ed- 
ward, Siviler, Latimer, Leiuis, Mary, 
m. Mr. Croft, Jane, m. Mr. Pray, 
and Anna, 
x. Lydia, m. John Croll, of York county, 
Pa., and had Martin, Abraham, d. s. 
p., and Arabella, m. Mr. Miller. 

VIII. John Shelly (Daniel), b. about 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



141 



1774, in Londonderry township, Lancaster, 
now Dauphin county, Pa.; d. August, 1827 ; 

ra. Lydia . They had issue: 

i. John-M., d. May, 1835 ; m. Lydia Her- 
man, and had Levi- Herman, d. 1846, 
John, Moses, Benjamin, d. s. p., and 
Anna, m. Jacob Miller. 
H. Susanna, in., June 4, 1823, David Det- 
weiler, and had (surname Det- 
weiler): Lydia, m. David Mum ma, 
Esq., of Harrisburg, Ephraim, resid- 
ing in Missouri, and John-Shelly. 
Hi. Rachel, m., first, Abner Croll, of Mid- 
dletown, and had John-Shelly, Will- 
iam-A., Luther-H., and Lydia, m. 
Jacob L. Nissley ; secondly, Martin 
Kendig. 

IX. Wendle Shelly (Daniel, Daniel), b. 
about 1781, on Shelly's Island ; d. January 
17, 1831, in Londonderry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa.; m. Ann Rife, daughter of Joseph 
and Barbara Rife; d.May, 1845. They had 
issue: . 

i. David-R., b. 1806. 

ii. Elizabeth, b. 1808 ; m. Abraham Gish, 
of Lancaster county. 
Hi. Susan, b. 1810 ; m. Daniel Kendig. 

16. iv. Michael, b. 1812; m. Elizabeth Croll. 

17. v. Lydia, b. 1814; m. John Wolfley. 

vi. Leah, b. 1816; m. Mr. Bossier, of 
Lancaster county, Pa. 

X. Susanna Shelly (Daniel, Daniel), b. 
about 1783, on Shelly's Island ; m. Henry 
Rife, of Donegal township, Lancaster county; 
d. 1824. They had issue (surname Rife): 

i. Jacob, b. 1813. 
ii. Daniel, b. 1815. 
Hi. Mary, b. 1817 ; m. John H. Achey, of 

Dayton, 0., and had John and 

Joanna, m. Dr. Neil. 
iv. Abraham, b. 1819; m. Sarah Achey, 

of Ohio. 
v. John, b. 1821 ; m., and had John- 

Ellinger, of Washington, D. C, and 

George, of Baltimore, Md. 

XL Daniel Shelly (Daniel, Daniel), b. 

1790; m. Magdalena , who in 1839 

was the wife of Abraham Smith. There was 
issue : 

i. Anna, m. John Glatfelter. 
ii. Susanna, m. Joseph Shickel. 
Hi. Benjamin, b. 1820. 
iv. Ephraim, b. 1822. 
v. Daniel, b. 1824. 

XII. Elizabeth Shelly (Abraham, Dan- 



iel, Daniel), b. about 1794; m. William 
Reeser, of York county, Pa.; and they had 
issue (surname Reeser) : 
i. John, 
ii. William. 

Hi. Eliza, m. Henry Beard, of Spring- 
field, 0. 
iv. Sarah, m. Samuel Prowell. 
v. Susan, m. Hiram Prowell. 
vi. Alexander, 
vii. Abraham, d. s. p. 
viii. Henry, 
ix. George. 

XIII. Catharine Shelly (Abraham, Dan- 
iel, Daniel), b. about 1792 ; m. Martin Crall, 
of York county, Pa.; and they had issue 
(surname Crall) : 

i. John. 

ii. Elizabeth, m. Michael Shelly. 
Hi. Henrietta, m. Christian Shelly. 
iv. Rachel, m. Henry Still. 
v. Susan, d. s. p. 

XIV. Nancy Shelly (Abraham, Daniel, 
Daniel), b. 1796, in Londonderry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa.; d. 1826, at Middle- 
town ; m., March 5, 1818, George Etter, of 
Middletown, b. 1783; d. 1850; and they had 
issue (surname Etter) : 

i. George- IF., b. 1814; d. February 13, 

1882. 
ii. Maria, m. John Josephus Walborn. 
Hi. Ann-Eliza, m. Philip Irwin. 
iv. Harriet, b. 1822; d. November IS, 

1889; m. John Monaghan. 
v. Benjamin-Franklin, b. September 29, 
1824 ; m. Catharine A. Snyder. 

XV. Mary Shelly (Abraham, Daniel, 
Daniel), b. about 1798, in Londonderry town- 
ship, Lancaster county, Pa.; m. Henry 
Smith, of Middletown; and they had issue 
(surname Smith): 

i. Sarah, in. Samuel Jenkins. 
H. Elizabeth, d. s. p. 
Hi. Anna-Mary, m. A. H. Shott. 
iv. Catharine, in. Robert R. Church. 

v. Henry, d. s. p. 

vi. Margaret-E., m. John Ringland. 
mi. Louisa-J., m. Christian W. Kunkel. 

XVI. Michael Shelly (Wendle, Daniel, 
Daniel), b. 1812 ; d. January, 1865 ; m. Eliza- 
beth Croll. They had issue : 

i. David, m., and had issue. 
ii. Wendle. 

Hi. Anna- Catharine, m. O. T. Everhart, of 
Hanover, Pa. 



142 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



iv. John-W. 
v. Jacob. 

vi. Clara-M., m., and had issue. 
vii. Elizabeth-Ehnira. 
viii. Mary-Louisa, 
ix. Henry- Wingert. 

XVII. Lydia Shelly (Wendle, Daniel, 
Daniel), b. 1814; d. December 24, 1839; m. 
-John Wolfley, b. August 9, 1795 ; d. February 
18, 1872, at Middletown. They had issue 
(surname Wolfley) : 
i. John, 
ii. Jacob. 
Hi. Annice, in. Dr. James A. Lowe. 



The Simpsons of Paxtang. 

I. John Simpson, of Scotland, settled in 
the north of Ireland after the battle of the 
Boyne, where he died and was buried. Of his 
family, we have the names of two of his 
sons, who were early settlers in Paxtang, 
coming to America in 1720. They were : 

2. i. Thomas, b. 1683 ; m., and had issue. 
ii. John, m., and had issue ; d. in Octo- 
ber, 1738, in Paxtang ; in his will 
is designated " of Fishing Creek." 

II. Thomas Simpson (John), a native of 
the north' of Ireland, where he was born in 
1683, emigrated to America in 1720, and 
settled in Paxtang, then Conestoga town- 
ship, Chester county, Pa.; he died in Pax- 
tang in June, 1761 ; was twice married ; by 
first wife there was issue : 

3. i. Samuel, b. 1706 ; m., and left issue. 
ii. Joseph, b. 1708 ; in., and left issue. 

Hi. William, b. 1710. 
iv. Rebecca, b. 1712. 
v. John, b. 1714. 
By second wife, Sarah, there was issue : 
to. Mary, b. 1732 ; d. October 3, 1786 ; 

m. Rev. John Elder. 
vii. Jean, b. 1734 ; d. February 20, 1777 ; 
m. William Kelso, b. 1737; d. No- 
vember 26, 1788 ; both buried in 
Paxtang church graveyard. 

4. viii. Thomas, b. 1736; m., and had issue. 

x. Michael, b. 1740 ; became quite promi- 
nent in the Revolution. 

III. Samuel Simpson (Thomas, John), b. 
1708, in Paxtang ; d. in December, 1791, in 
Paxtang, leaving a wife, and the following 
issue : 

i. Jean, b. 1730. 
ii. Margaret, b. 1/32 ; m., October 4, 1752, 



William Augustus Harris, b. 1730; 

d. about 1760 ; leaving issue, John 

and Simpson, both d. s. p. 
Hi. Sarah, b. 1734; m. Col. William Cooke, 

of the Revolution. 
iv. Samuel, b. 1736. 
v. Rebecca, b. 1738 ; m. Thomas Cavet. 

vi. Nathaniel, b. 1740 ; m. Sarah . 

vii. Mary, b. 1741 ; m. Robert Taggart, of 

Northumberland county. 

IV. Thomas Simpson (Thomas, John), b. 
1736, in Paxtang; d. February, 1777; m. 
Mary . They had issue : 



i. Michael, 
ii. Thomas, m. Mary 



who after 



being left a widow m. William 
Stewart. 
Hi. Rebecca. 



The Sloans op Hanover. 

Several members of the Sloan family set- 
tled in Hanover as early as 1730, but in the 
absence of the assessment list it is difficult 
to fix the exact date. John Sloan, who died 
in September, 1741, left a wife Jean, and 
children, James, Robert, William, John, 
George, Sarah, and Ciuquas. It was John 
Sloan, the first, who was the ancestor of the 
Sloans of Hanover, but the connecting link 
we have no knowledge of. Several of the 
family followed the Rev. Mr. Sankey to 
Virginia, and hence the prominence of the 
name in the South. 

On the tax and other lists for 1751, 1756 
and 1759 we have only the names of John 
and Samuel Sloan. In 1769, the next list, 
John disappears, and Samuel, James, Archi- 
bald, and Alexander come upon the stage. 
Samuel died during the Revolutionary era, 
in October, 1777, leaving brothers John, 
James, Archibald, and William. Archibald 
Sloan, who married first in 1759, Margaret 
Sloan, and secondly in 1766, Mary Craig, of 
Hanover, died in 1793. Concerning Alex- 
ander Sloan we have the following record: 

Alexander Sloan, b. in 1744 ; d. in Jan- 
uary, 1812; m. Jean Moor. They had issue: 
i. John, h. 1767 ; m. Elizabeth French, 
sister of Capt. James French ; re- 
moved to Ohio in 1832, and died 
there at an advanced age, leaving 
a large family. 
ii. Robert, b. 1769 ; m. Sarah McOorarick. 
Hi. Alexander, b. 1771 ; m. Jane French, 




/ 




.1 ^ 



-if 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



145 



sister of John's wife; d. at Williams- 
port, Pa., at an advanced age. 
iv. Isabella, b. 1773; d. in 18 — , unm. 
v. James, b. 1775 ; m. Nancy McCreight ; 

d. December 1, 1820, in Hanover. 
vi. William, b. 1777; unm.; d. in 1818, 

in Hanover. 
mi. Jean, b. 1781; m. Alexander Bell, of 
Hanover; d. in 1832, in Ohio. 

Robert Sloan, a native of Hanover town- 
ship, born in 1769, was brought up on his 
father's farm. He subsequently applied 
himself to mechanical pursuits, and carried 
on the business of cabinet-making. On the 
30th of March, 1799, he was married by the 
Rev. James Snodgrass to Miss Sarah Mc- 
Cormick, of Hanover, daughter of James 
McCormick and Isabella Dixon. Shortly 
after he removed to the city of New York, 
but about 1812 permanently located at Har- 
risburg, where he pursued his avocation. 
He became one of the old borough's promi- 
nent citizens — esteemed by all for his in- 
dustry, energy and uprightness of character. 
He was an elder in the First Presbyterian 
church thirteen years, " possessing," says 
Rev. Dr. Robinson, " the confidence of the 
church as a man of God, noble and blame- 
less in his uprightness." He died at Harris- 
burg, December 4, 1833, aged 64 years. His 
wife, Sarah McCormick, was one of the most 
amiable of women, whose life was character- 
ized by a faithful devotion to all the high- 
born virtues of Christian womanhood, only 
ending with her days on earth, which closed 
on the 5th of April, 1843. The children of 
Robert and Sarah Sloan, who reached matu- 
rity, were as follows : 

i. Eliza, in., first, Thomas Baird ; sec- 
ondly, James Rutherford Boyd. 
Mrs. Boyd survives and resides in 
Harrisburg. 
ii. Alexander, m. Mary Todd, of Hanover, 
daughter of Capt. James Todd and 
Sally Ainsworth. Mr. Alexander 
Sloan survives and resides in Har- 
risburg. 
Hi. Isabella, m. Matthew P. Kennedy ; d. 

in 1877, at New Brighton, Pa. 
iv. John, A. at Indianapolis, Ind., in 1874. 
v. William, b. 1815; studied medicine 
with Dr. Luther Reily, graduated 
at the University of Pennsylvania, 
and in 1837 was appointed assistant 
surgeon in the U. S. army. He served 
through the Florida and Mexican 



wars. During the war of the Re- 
bellion he was medical director of 
the Department of the East, with 
headquarters in New York city. 
After the war he was transferred to 
the Department of the Northwest 
and stationed at St. Paul, Minn., 
where he died on the 17th of March, 
1880, aged 65, the oldest surgeon in 
continued service in the army. 
to. Mary, m. D. Craighead; d. in 1866, 
at Indianapolis, Ind. 



Stewart of Paxtang. 

In the graveyard at Paxtang church are 
the following tombstone inscriptions : 

In | memory of \ Andrew Stewart \ who de- 
parted | this life March \ the 31st 171 % \ Aged 
75 years. 

In | memory of \ Mary Stewart \ who de- 
parted | this life April | 30th 1772 \ aged 65 
years. 

Andrew Stewart and Mary his wife came 
from Scotland prior to 1740. Owing to the 
destruction of the assessment lists immedi- 
ately subsequent to the formation of Lancas- 
ter county, of which the townships of Pax- 
tang, Derry and Hanover were an integral 
part upon its organization, it is very difficult 
to ascertain the precise year when the early 
settlers located here. Of the family of Stew- 
art there were at least three distinct heads. 
The name is indifferently spelled Stuart and 
Stewart, but rarely Stewart in the old records. 
The origin of the patronymic — Stewart — is 
from ward, to guard, to care for. The first 
syllable ste is of doubtful origin, but is sup- 
posed to mean a place, a corner, a quarter. 
Stuart, Stewart and Steward have all the 
same origin, although those who use the 
Stuart claim to have bluer blood in their 
veins, which, of course, is a fallacy. The u 
was substituted for the w because of their be- 
ing no w in the French alphabet, the Stew- 
arts having retired to France, or perhaps 
during the reign of Queen Mary Stuart, the 
French courtiers having introduced or per- 
sisted in the French mode of spelling the 
name Stuart. 

Andrew Stewart was a Covenanter of the 
most rigid faith, and the earliest Presbyte- 
rian minister in America, the Rev. John 
Cuthbertson, frequently tarried at his house 
while on his missionary tours. In his diary, 
under date of 20th of August, 1751, he notes 



146 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



the baptism of Eliza (Elizabeth), daughter 
of Andrew Stewart. On the organization of 
the Covenanter church at Paxtang, Mr. 
Stewart and his wife became members. But 
little is known of this hardy pioneer, save 
that in his day and generation he was ever 
loyal to the " Solemn League and Covenant." 

Of the family of Andrew Stewart, his 
eldest son John, born in Paxtang, on the 
24th of February, 1740, was educated for the 
ministry. While in England he was or- 
dained in the Established Church, returned 
to Pennsylvania, where he was received with 
aught but favor by his strict old Covenanter 
father. He went as a missionary among the 
Indians in the Mohawk Valley, and made a 
translation of the New Testament in the Mo- 
hawk language. Refusing allegiance to the 
Colonies, in 1781 he went to Canada, where 
he became chaplain to a provincial regiment, 
and subsequently as a missionary traveled 
through the upper province of Canada, 
where he labored with energy and success. 
In 1786 he settled at Kingston, and for some 
time previous to his death was chaplain to 
the Legislative Council. He died on the 15th 
of August, 1811. 

Of the children of the Rev. John Stewart, 
or Stuart, as our Canadian friends prefer to 
write it, we have been able to glean the fol- 
lowing data, hoping, however, that some 
member of the Literary and Historical So- 
ciety of Quebec will furnish us with fuller, 
if not more accurate information. James 
Stewart, the eldest son, was born at Fort 
Hunter, N. Y., March 2, 1780, became an 
eminent Canadian jurist and chief justice of 
Lower Canada. He was called to the bar in 
1801; appointed solicitor general, 1805-9; 
attorney general, 1822-32 ; chief justice, 
1838-53. He was created a baronet in 1840, 
and died at Quebec July 14, 1853. His son, 
Sir Charles Stuart, now resides in England 
during the' summer season, and in Italy 
during the winter. 

The second son, Andrew, was also a distin- 
guished jurist and solicitor general of Lower 
Canada — decidedly one of the most talented 
men of Canada — many years president of the 
Literary and Historical Society of Quebec; 
was born at Kingston, U. O, in 1786, and 
died at Quebec, February 21, 1840. He was 
the author of a number of valuable historical 
works. A son of Andrew Stuart is at present 
a judge — a gentleman of ability and ardent 
mind. 

George O'Kill Stuart, another son, became 



an arch deacon. He married a daughter of 
Gen. John Brooks, a soldier of the Revolution 
and governor of Massachusetts from 1816 to 
1823. His son, of the same name, is judge 
of the Vice Admirality Court at Quebec. 

John Stewart, sheriff of Leeds and Green- 
ville, who resided at Brockville, on the 
British side of the St. Lawrence, was also a 
son of the Rev. John first named. 

We have given the foregoing to show the 
connection between the Stewarts of Paxtang 
and those of Canada. 

The other children of Andrew Stewart, 
the pioneer, were James, Mary, Elizabeth, 
previously named, who died May 1, 1773, 
aged twenty-three years; Charles, Andrew 
and Eleanor. Of none of these do we know 
the history save that of Eleanor, the others 
probably removing from this locality after the 
death of their father and mother. Eleanor 
married Richard DeYarmond, second son 
of James and Mary DeYarmond. She was 
born May 4, 1753, and died February 19, 
1830. Her husband, born in Hanover, Sep- 
tember 1, 1743, died November 17, 1802. 
They are both interred in the old Hanover 
church graveyard. Their children were : 
James, born October 2, 1782, died January 7, 
1812 ; Mary, born in 1784, who married 
James McCreight, Jr.; Eleanor, born in 1788; 
Andrew Stewart, born in 1791, and Marga- 
ret, born March 1, 1793 ; died May 6, 1824. 



The Stewarts of Hanover. 

I. Lazarus Stewart, a native of the north 
of Ireland, came to America in 1729, the 
same year locating on a tract of land " situ- 
ate on Swahatawro creek," in then Lancas- 
ter county. This tract of three hundred 
acres was directed to be surveyed for him by 
the Proprietaries on the 6th of March, 1739. 
With the aid of two Redemptioners, whose" 
passages were paid by him, he built within 
that and the two years following a house and 
barn, cleared twenty odd acres of arable land 
and planted an orchard. He died about 
1744. His farm was a long time in dispute, 
owing to the fact that the warrant never 
having been issued his son Lazarus took out 
a warrant for the same land. After the 
death of the first Lazarus' wife a suit was 
brought by William Stewart, eldest son of 
John Stewart, for the recovery of his share 
in his grandfather's estate. A distribution 
was made in 1785, from the record of which 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



147 



in the Orphans' Court proceedings we have 
the foundation of the genealogy herewith 
given. There is no information as to the 
name or the date of death of the first Laza- 
rus Stewart's wife. They may have had 
other children, but the following are the 
names of all who]reached mature years: 

2. i. John, b. 1712 ; m. Frances . 

3. ii. Margaret, b. 1714 ; m. James Stewart. 

4. iii. Margery, b. 1716 ; m. John Young. 

iv. Lazarus, b. 1718.' 

v. Peter, b. iii 1720 ; took up one hun- 
dred acres of land adjoining An- 
drew Lykens and WilliaYn Camp- 
bell, in Hanover township, sur- 
veyed to him on the 17th of Sep- 
tember, 1743. Prior to 1760 he re- 
moved to North Carolina; m., and 
left issue. 

vi. James, b. 1722 ; took up one hundred 
and fifty acres of land " adjoining 
Lazarus Stewart and James Murray 
on Swahawtawro creek, in Hano- 
ver township," surveyed to him on 
the 2d of December, 1738. He 
married and removed to North 
Carolina with his brother. 
vii- David, b. 1724; m., and removed with 
his brothers to North Carolina. 

II. John Stewart (Lazarus), b. about 
1712, in Ireland ; d. April 8, 1777, in Han- 
over township, Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county, Pa., and is buried in the "New-Side" 
graveyard in Lower Paxtang township. On 
the 26th of May, 1744, one hundred and fifty 
acres of land " adjoining James and Lazarus 
Stewart in Hanover township" were surveyed 

to him. Married, in 1736, Frances , 

of Donegal, b. in 1716; d. November 16, 
1790, and is buried in old Hanover church- 
yard. They had issue: 

i. William, b. 1738 ; d. July 14, 1803; 

m., first, Mary , b. 1736; d. 

February 22, 1780 ; m., secondly, 

Marv Stewart, b. 1743; d. August 

9, 1796. 
ii. Lazarus, b. 1740 ; m. Dorcas Hopkins. 
iii. George, b. 1743; m. Rebecca Fleming. 

iv. James, b. 1745 ; m. Margaret . 

v. John, b. 1747 ; m. Margaret Stewart. 
vi. Mary, b. 1749 ; m. George Espy. 
vii. Jane, b. 1751 ; m. Armstrong. 

III. Margaret Stewart (Lazarus), b. in 
1714,in the north of Ireland ; d. in Hanover 
township, Lancaster county, Pa. She m. 
James Stewart, b. 170S, in the north of Ire- 



land, and d. in Hanover, Lancaster county, 
Pa. He had surveyed unto him, December 
2, 1738, one hundred and fifty acres of land 
" adjoining Lazarus Stewart and James Mur- 
ray, on Swahatawro creek, in Hanover town- 
ship." They had issue : 

i. Charles, b. 1731 ; m., and had issue, 
James, Lazarus, John, Margaret, 
Charles, and George. 
5. ii. Lazarus, b. May 16, 1733; m. Martha 
Espy! . 
iii. James, b. 1737 ; m. Priscilla Espy, and 
had Lazarus. Subsequently, when 
a widow, she married Capt. An- 
drew Lee, of the Revolution. 
6. iv. Jean, b. 1739 ; m. John Campbell. 

IV. Margery Stewart (Lazarus), b. 1716, 
in Ireland ; d. in Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa.; m. John Young, b. in Ire- 
land ; d. in June, 1775, in Hanover town- 
ship. They had issue (surname Young) : 

i. David, 
ii. Mary, 
iii. Margaret, m. Samuel Ainsworth, and 

left issue. 
iv. John, 
v. Margery, 
vi. George, 
vii. James. 

6. viii. William. 

V. Lazarus Stewart (Margaret, Lazarus), 
b. May 16, 1733, in Hanover township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa.; fell in the massacre of 
Wyoming, July 3, 1778. He was the noted 
Capt. Lazarus Stewart, an officer in the 
Provincial service, and the captain of the 
Paxtang Boys, who so completely settled the 
question of the rights of Indian tramp ma- 
rauders south of the Blue mountains. Cap- 
tain Stewart m. Martha Espy, b. about 1740, 
in Hanover; d. in the Wyoming Valley. 
They had issue: 

7. i. James, b. 1757 ; m. Hannah Jameson. 

8. ii. Elizabeth, b. 1759; m. Alexander 

Jameson. 
iii. Josiah, b. 1761 ; m. Nancy Chapman ; 
removed to the State of New York 
at an early day. 

9. iv. Mary,b. 1763 ; m. Rev. Andrew Gray. 
v. Priscilla, b. 1766 : m. Joseph Avery 

Rathburn, who settled in Western 
New York. Their children were 
John, Lazarus, and Joseph, all mar- 
ried and left descendants. 

10. vi. Margaret, b. 1767; m. James Camp- 

bell. 



148 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



vii. Martha, b. 1769 ; d. unm. 

VI. Jane Stewart (Margaret, Lazarus), 
b. 1739, in Hanover township, Lancaster 
county, where she died shortly after the war 
of the Revolution. She m. John Campbell, 
b. 1732; d. June 1, 1781. They had issue 
(surname Campbell): 

i. William, d. July 3, 1804; left a wife 
Margaret and a son James, b. Sep- 
tember 14, 1789, and Martha, bap. 
November 9, 1791. 

VII. James Stewart (Lazarus, Margaret, 
Lazarus), b. in 1757, in Hanover, Lancaster 
count}', Pa.; d. in 1823, in Hanover, Luzerne 
county, Pa. He m. Hannah Jameson ; and 
they had issue : 

i. Martha, m. Abraham Tolles ; and 
they had issue (surname Tolles): 
James, who m. and had Linda. 
ii, Frances, m. Benjamin A. Bidlack ; and 
they had issue (surname Bidlack): 
Frances-Stewart. 
11. m. Abigail, m. Abraham Thomas. 

iv. Caroline, m. Rev. Morgan Sherman; 
and they had issue (surname Sher- 
man): Mary, m. and left issue, and 
Caroline, m. James Morrison, who 
had Stewart and Irene. 
v. Lazarus, d. unm. 
vi. Mary, d. unm. 
James Stewart's widow, Hannah Jameson, 
subsequently married Rev. Marmaduke 
Pearce and had three children, Stewart, 
Cromwell, and John Pearce. Stewart Pearce 
was the author of the "Annals of Luzerne 
County," a prominent man in his day. Crom- 
well Pearce was distinguished as a military 
officer. 

VIII. Elizabeth Stewart (Lazarus, Mar- 
garet, Lazarus), lived and died in Luzerne 
county, Pa. She m. Alexander Jameson. 
They had issue (surname Jameson): 

i. William, m. Margaret Henry ; and 
they had issue: John, d. inf., and 
Mary, who m. and left descendants. 
ii. Robert, d. unm. 

Hi. Minerva, m. Dr. A. B. Wilson ; and 
they had issue (surname Wilson): 
Edward, Mary, m. Frank Stewart, 
and Minerva, m. F. A. Macartney, 
and they had Frank Macartney. 
iv. Elizabeth, m. Rev. Francis Macartney; 
and they had issue (surname Ma- 
cartney): Francis- A., m. his cousin 
Minerva Wilson, Mary, d. unm., and 
Elizabeth, m. Dr. James Wilson. 



v. Martha, d. in 1880, unm. 

IX. Mary Stewart (Lazarus, Margaret, 
Lazarus), m. Rev. Andrew Gray. Mr. Cray 
was born in county Down, Ireland, Januarv 
1, 1757 ; d. August 13, 1837. He resided in 
Paxtang, but went to Wyoming, settling in 
Hanover, where he preached. He was a 
Presbyterian, and subsequently removed to 
Western New York, where he missionated 
several years among the Seneca Indians, 
finally locating at Dansville, Livingston 
county, in that State. They had issue (sur- 
name Gray) : 

i. James, m. Rebecca Roberts. 
ii. Margaret, m. Richard Gillespie. 
Hi. Jane, m. Daniel Gallatin. 
iv. William, d. unm. 
v. Andrew, left home early in life, and 

was never heard from. 
vi. Maria, m. James Jack. 
vii. Martha, d. unm. 
viii. Elizabeth, m. Robert Perine. 

X. Margaret Stewart (Lazarus, Marga- 
ret, Lazarus), d. in Hanover township, Lu- 
zerne county, Pa.; m. James" Campbell, who 
lived and died in the same township. They 
had issue (surname Campbell) : 

i. James- Stewart, d. unm. 
ii. Martha, m. James S. Lee, and they 
had issue (surname Lee) : Andrew, 
m. Sarah Buchhout, Priscilla, m. 
Hon. Siba Bennett, Washington, m. 
Emily Thomas, Margaret, m. Dr. 
James Doolittle, Mary, m. Lewis 
C. Payne, and William, d. unm. 
Hi. Mary, m. Jameson Harvey, and they 
had issue (surname Harvey) : Mar- 
garet, m. Robert C. Pieman, Mary, 
William-J., m. Jessie Wright, and 
Harrison, m. Amanda Merritt. 
iv. Margaret, m. James Dilley, and they 
had issue, among others (surname 
Dilley) : Mary, Margaret, and Har- 
riet. 

XL Abigail Stewart (James, Lazarus, 
Margaret, Lazarus), b. in Hanover, Luzerne 
county, Pa. ; d. there about 1830. She m. 
Abraham Thomas, and they had issue (sur- 
name Thomas): 

i. Emily, m. Col. Washington Lee, and 
they had issue (surname Lee): 
Bessie- Campbell, m. Dr. William 
Morton, James- Francis, m. Madge 
Swetland, Mary-Josephine, m. Bruce 
Price, Ella-Headley, d. inf., Emma- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



149 



Thomas, m. Benjamin Barroll, and 
Charles- William, m. Lilly Doolittle. 

ii. Martha, m. Joseph C. Rhodes, and 
the} 7 had issue (surname Rhodes) : 
Clubine-Lee, Clementine-Thomas, and 
Helen- Headley, m. Walter Meek. 

Hi. Clementine, d. unm. 

iv. Frances, d. unm. 

v. Helen, m. John Boyd Headley, and 
they had issue (surname Headley) : 
Annie-Latona, d. in inf., William- 
Thomas, m. Kate P. Freese, John- 
Boyd, and Nellie-Boyd. 

vi. Latona, d. unm. 



The Umholtz Family. 

We are not entirely satisfied as to the 
orthography of this surname. Many of the 
old records have it Imholtz, some Omholtz, 
and others Umholtz. We are of the opinion 
that the former is the correct orthography. 
As the present members of the familj' adhere 
to the latter it is this nomenclature we shall 
also employ. 

Henry Umholtz, with a younger brother, 
came to this country from Switzerland prior 
to the Revolution and located in what is now 
Lykens township, Dauphin county, along 
the base of Short mountain, about two miles 
from Gratztown, where John Umholtz 
now resides. Here they took up quite a 
large tract of land and commenced farming. 
The brother entered the army at the outset 
of the war of the Revolution, in Capt. Will- 
iam Hendrick's company, and fell in the as- 
sault on Quebec. Henry was also in service 
during the war, as appears by the rolls of 
Captains Hoffman's and Weaver's com- 
panies. 

Henry Umholtz married about 1769 his 
first wife, who was a Miss Rouch. Sometime 
after her death he married Magdalena Sei- 
densticker, daughter of Philip Seidensticker, 
of Bethel township, now Lebanon county. 
Mr. Umholtz died at an advanced age, and 
with his two wives are buried at Hoffman's 
church. His children were as follows : 

i. John, b. August 11, 1770; was a farmer 
and resided near Berrysburg. He 
married Catharine Harman and 
had a large family. Of these John- 
Jacob was a major in the Pennsyl- 
vania militia, and father of Joseph 
and Jacob now living near Gratz. 



The latter served as director of the 
poor a few years ago. 
ii. Barnhart, b. October 22, 1772 ; d. Au- 
gust, 1829; was a farmer and resided 
above Gratztown. He married 
Catharine Rissinger, and had Mi- 
chael, Solomon, who resides on or 
near his father's place, Philip, 
Susan, m. Jacob Walborn, Anna- 
Margaret, ni. George Holloback, 
Catharine, m. Michael Fisher, and 
Esther, m. Daniel Emanuel. 
Hi. Michael, b. August 31, 1776; removed 
to what is now Perry county, where 
he married and raised a family. 
iv. John-Philip, b. September 14, 1779. 
He purchased his father's farm, fol- 
lowed farming and died April, 1838. 
He married Anna Maria Willard, 
daughter of Peter Willard, and had 
Matthias, who settled in Stark 
county, 0.; John, m. Mollie Shoff- 
stall, resided on the old homestead ; 
Samuel, resided near Gratz ; Chris- 
tian, removed to Mercer county, Pa.; 
Susan, m. Daniel Loudenslager ; 
Catharine, m. Isaac Henninger, of 
Stark county, 0., and Elizabeth, m. 
John P. Hoffman. 
v. Henry, b. September 17, 1783 ; d. De- 
cember, 1829 ; was a soldier of the 
war of 1812, followed farming and 
owned a farm near Isaac Zitlinger's. 
He married Susan Hoover, daugh- 
ter of Jacob Hoover, of Hoover's 
Mill. They had Rebecca, m. Benja- 
min Gise, father of Capt. Joseph D., 
Leah, m. George W. Ferree, Polly, 
m. John Henninger, and Henry, Jr., 
who for many years was a distin- 
guished teacher in the " Upper 
End." 
vi. Anna- Maria, b. July 12, 1781; m. 
Peter Yartz. 
The family of Umholtz have all been sub- 
stantial and representative farmers of the 
valley. 



The Weise Family of Lykens Valley- 
Adam Weise was born in New Goshen- 
hoppen, Philadelphia county, Pa., Decem- 
ber 23,1751. His parents were John George 
and Eve Weise. They moved from New 
Goshenhoppen to Heidelberg township, 
Berks county, Pa., where Adam was brought 



150 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



up in a Christian-like manner in the faith 
and doctrine of the Evangelical Lutheran 
Church. 

The subject of this sketch was married on 
the 2d of February, A. D. 1772, to Margaret 
Elizabeth Wingard, who was born in Heidel- 
berg township, Berks county, on the loth of 
March A. D. 1749. Her parents were Lazarus 
and Catharine Elizabeth Wingard. She be- 
longed to the Evangelical Presbyterian (Ger- 
man Reformed) Church. By this marriage 
there were the following children : 

i. Catharine- Elizabeth, b. November 21, 
1772, in Heidelberg township, 
Berks county; m. George Gun- 
drum, April 7, 1795, by Rev. Will- 
iam Hendel. 
ii. Ann- Elizabeth, b. April 28, 1774, in 
Hagerstown, Md. (the family hav- 
ing removed to that place the pre- 
vious year); m. Philip Sbaffer, 
April 5, 1795. He died March 23, 
1814, in Upper Paxtang township, 
Dauphin county. 
Hi. John, b. August 13, 1776, in Hagers- 
town ; m. Elizabeth Bordner, 
daughter of Michael Bordner, of 
Upper Paxtang township, Dauphin 
county, on June 7, 1801. 
iv. Anna-Mary, b. June 28, 1778, in 
Hagerstown; m. Michael Shadel 
November 7, 1797, in Upper Pax- 
tang township, Dauphin county. 
v. John- Adam, b. January 24, 1780, in 
Hagerstown ; m. Eve Bordner, 
of Upper Paxtang township, 
Dauphin county, in the year 1801. 
His wife died the first year of their 
marriage, and he was married the 
second time, to Elizabeth Lebo. 
Adam Weise served as a sergeant in the 
Maryland cavalry in the Revolutionary war, 
enlisting at Hagerstown. He moved with 
his family from Hagerstown to Upper Pax- 
tang township, in Lykens Valley, Dauphin 
county, Pa., in the year 1782. [He settled 
at this time on the north or south side of 
Wiconisco creek, on the road (as now known) 
leading from Cross-Roads to Berrysburg, 
formerly Hellerstown. According to the 
best information obtainable, he settled on 
the north of said creek, on what is generally 
known as the Elder farm, and very likely 
he owned the land on both sides of the creek, 
for he owned three hundred acres or over. 
When I (his youngest son) was ten or twelve 
years old, in passing along on that road in' 



company with old men of the valley, I was 
shown the place where the} 7 said my father's 
blacksmith shop had stood, which was a 
little back in the field from the road, south- 
west from the old residence, which is still 
standing, but has been remodeled and re- 
paired at different times. I was also shown 
where he had his coal-pit or hearth, which 
was about a hundred yards slightly north- 
west from where the shop stood, in the woods. 
Blacksmiths used nothing but charcoal in 
those days, and most of them burnt or charred 
their own coal. It should be remembered, 
also, that nearly all of what is now Wash- 
ington and Mifflin townships to the Susque- 
hanna river was included in.Upper Paxtang 
township.] 

vi. John-George, b. Jauuary 7, 1786, in 
Upper Paxtang township, Dauphin 
county ; m. Charlotte Moore, 1808. 
The Indians were very troublesome, and 
from this and other causes the family re- 
moved to Bethel township, Berks county, 
Pa., 1788. 

vii. Anna-Margaret, b. February 14, 1789, 
in Bethel township, Berks count} 7 ; 
m. Michael Shoop, November 6, 
1808, in Upper Paxtang township, 
Dauphin county. 
viii. Anna- Maria, b. July 21, 1791, in 
Bethel township, Berks county; 
m. Abraham Jury, 1811, in Upper 
Paxtang township, Dauphin county. 

Mr. Weise moved back to Lykens Valley 
to the old place in the year 1796, and in 
1802 took up his residence in Millersburg, 
erecting the third house in the town and a 
blacksmith shop, on the southwest corner of 
Union and Race streets (now owned by Levi 
Bowman, Sr.). His anvil was the town clock 
in the morning for a number of years, so the 
old people of Millersburg used to say. He 
was commissioned a justice of the peace by 
Governor Mifflin February 1, 1799. Re- 
mained in office over thirty-four years, or 
until his death in 1833. 

His wife died on Sunday, March 29, 1818, 
and was buried on the following Tuesday, 
in the David's (German Reformed) grave- 
yard, about three miles northeast of Millers- 
burg. The funeral attendance was exceed- 
ingly large, and Revs. J. R. Reily and Nich- 
olas Hem ping were present. A very appro- 
priate sermon was preached by Rev. J. R. 
Reily, from Psalms iv. 8. She reached the 
age of 69 years and 14 days. They lived 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



151 



together in matrimony 46 years, 1 month 
and 26 days. 

Adam Weise entered into matrimony the 
second time August 23, 1818, with Mary 
Kuehly (Keely), widow of George Kuehly, 
of Swinefordstown, Union county, Pa. (now 
Middleburg, Snyder county). Her parents 
were Jacob and Mary Bitterman,from Mont- 
gomery count}', Pa. She was born March 
20, 1765, in Montgomery county. 

On Sunday evening, September 10, 1820, 
his second wife died, and was buried the fol- 
lowing Tuesday in the German Reformed 
burial ground, alongside his former partner. 
Her age was 55 years, 5 months and 15 days. 
Rev. Isaac Gearheart preached on the occa- 
sion, from the words recorded in Isaiah 
xxxviii. 1. 

Mr. Weise entered into matrimony the 
third time December 10, 1820, with Catha- 
rine Patton, widow of James Patton, of 
Swinefordstown, Union county, Pa. (now 
Middleburg, Snyder county). Her maiden 
name was Catharine Neiman. She was born 
November 10, 1785, in Montgomerry county, 
Pa. Her parents were Conrad and Catharine 
Neiman. This union was blessed with the 
following issue: 

ix. Abel, b. October 3, 1821, in Millers- 
burg, Dauphin county, Pa. He is still 
living, a resident of Lykens. 
x. Hannah, b. February 13, 1823. 
xi. Frederick-Neiman, b. August 25, 1825, 
in Millersburg. 

Adam Weise died October 5, 1833, in 
Millersburg, after a long and useful life, 
and was buried by the side of his two de- 
ceased wives in the graveyard of David's Re- 
formed church, Upper Paxtang township. 
Rev. Isaac Gearheart officiated at the funeral. 
His age was 81 years, 9 months and 12 days. 

Catharine Weise, surviving relict of Adam 
Weise, died in Berrysburg, Dauphin county, 
April 30, 1863, aged 77 years, 5 months 
and 20 days. She was buried in the ceme- 
tery of the Evangelical Lutheran and Ger- 
man Reformed church at Berrysburg. Fu- 
neral services were held by Revs. Bosler and 
I. Gearheart. 

At the death of Adam Weise there were 11 
children, 63 grandchildren and 133 great- 
grandchildren. The descendants of the above 
record (which is made from a correct trans- 
lation of the original German by Rev. Mi- 
chael Lenker) are now scattered in nearly 
every State of the Union, especially in the 
West. f. n. w. 



The Family of Wiggins. 

I. John Wiggins, son of James and Jean 
Wiggins, was born about 1680 in the north 
of Ireland. He came to America about 
1738, locating in Paxtang. His name ap- 
pears on the first assessment list of the North 
End of Paxtang for 1749. He died in Feb- 
ruary, 1762. his will being probated the 
month following. He left" a wife Mary 
(probably a Barnett) and children as fol- 
lows : 

i. James, b. 1706. 

ii. Jean, b. 1708. 

Hi. Martha, b. 1710. 

iv Margaret, b. 1712. 
2. v. John, b. 1714; m. Elizabeth . 

vi. Agnes, b. 1716; m. Thomas Maguire 
and had a daughter Sarah. 
At this time it seems as if his youngest 
children, John and Agnes, with his wife, were 
the only members of his family in America, 
for in the disposition of his estate he directs 
that the other children were to have their 
share " if they come to this country." -It is 
probable they came, and afterwards went 
with the tide of Scotch-Irish immigration 
southward, as the name appears in A^irginia 
and the Carolinas. 

II. John Wiggins (John, James), born in 
Ireland, in 1714 ; came to America with his 
parents, and remained on the parental farm. 
He d. June 12, 1794. He m. Elizabeth 

, b. in 1716 ; d. June 5, 1784. They 

are both interred in Paxtang graveyard. 
Their children were : 

i. Thomas, b. 1746; d. August, 1798. 
He studied medicine, and served 
in the war of the Revolution. Was 
surgeon of the New Eleventh, Penn- 
sylvania Line, Col. Thomas Hart- 
ley, commissioned July 1, 1778. 
Owing to ill health, due to the pre- 
vious exposure in the service, he 
resigned January 23, 1780. 

ii. John, b. 1748 ; d. October 21, 1830, in 
Northumberland county. It is 
said that when a young man he 
was attacked by a panther on his 
way home from Paxtang church, 
and killed the animal with his 
fists, although he bore the marks 
of its claws all his life. 

Hi. Elizabeth, b. 1750. 

iv. James, b. 1782 ; d. June, 1S05, unm., 
bequeathing his estate to his sur- 
viving brother and sisters. 



152 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



v. Jean, b. 1754 ; m., in 1777, Dr. Will- 
iam Sinionton. 
vi. Margaret, b. 1756 ; m., March 20, 1787, 

James Henderson. 
vii. Mary, b. 1758 ; m. John, brother of 
Dr. William Sinionton, who had 
deceased prior to 1805, leaving a 
son Thomas, 
viii. Agnes, b. 1760; m. William, son of 
William and Isabella Brandon, of 
Hanover, who had deceased prior 
to 1805, leaving sons, Thomas and 
James, and daughter Ann, m. James, 
son of David Pettigrew, who left 
Hanover about 1792. 



The Youngs of Hanover, 

I. Robert Young, an early settler in 
Hanover township, then Lancaster county, 
d. about 1749, leaving a wife Kerstine, and 
children : 

2. i. James. 

3. ii. John, m. Margery Stewart. 

II. James Young (Robert), of Hanover, d. 
in 1772, leaving children : 

4. i. William, m. Catharine . 

5. ii. James. 

Hi. John, m. Agnes , and had 

among others John. 

iv. Andrew, m. Sarah , and had 

among others Andrew and Josiah. 
v. Alexander, d. s. p. 

III. John Young (Robert), of Hanover, d. 
in May, 1775, leaving a wife Margery 
(Stewart), and children : 

i. Da.vid. 

ii. Mary, m. James Dixon. 
Hi. Margaret, m. Samuel Ainsworth. 
iv. John, 
v. Margery, 
vi. George. ' 
vii. James. 

6. viii. William, m. Martha . 

IV. William Young (James, Robert), of 
Hanover, d. in January, 1785, leaving a wife 
Catharine, and children : 

i. Robert, 
ii. John. 
Hi. James. 

iv. Andrew, m. Margery , and had 

Margaret, 
v. Esther. 



vi. Martha, 
vii. William. 

V. James Young (James, Robert), of Han- 
over, d. in May, 1787, leaving children : 

i. \_A dau.], m. Samuel Johnson. 
ii. Elizabeth. 
Hi. Jane. 

iv. \_A dau.\ m. William McCauley. 
v. Margaret, m. James Robinson. 
vi. Andrew. 

vii. Sarah, m. John Watt. 
viii. John, 
ix. James, 
x. Alexander. 

VI. William Young (John, Robert), of 
East Hanover, d. March 15, 1796, leaving a 
wife Martha, and children: 

i. Catharine, b. 1779 ; m. James Bell, b. 

1772 ; d. March 6, 1814. 
ii. Eleanor, b. 1781. 
Hi. William, b. 1783. 
iv. John, b. 1785. 
v. Jane, b. June 1, 1788. 
vi. James, b. September 14, 1789. 
vii. Esther, b. April 16, 1791. 
viii. Robert, b. 1793. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Some of the Industries of the City and County. 

Apart from Harrisburg being the Capital 
City of Pennsylvania, there is that which 
exists within it, and the surrounding towns, 
to make it of far greater importance — a city 
of industry. From its earliest existence its 
location has been such as to invite capital, 
and it embraces within its industrial estab- 
lishments, manufactories which in their 
great success show the financial and com- 
mercial progress of the city and county more 
than anything else. The local situation has 
always been favorable for healthfulness and 
a desirable place for residence, while the 
abundant water supply, the railroad facili- 
ties, and whatever else is necessary for build- 
ing up a large manufacturing metropolis is 
found within the county of Dauphin. The 
markets are unexcelled ; the fertile islands, 
and plateau along the river, with the beau- 
tiful and productive valley lying between 
the North and South mountains, furnish sup- 
plies more than would be needed for a popu- 






DAUPHIN COUNTY 



153 



lation ten times greater than now within the 
limits of the county. Of the character of 
the manufacturing enterprises it is needless 
to speak, and yet, at the same time it is 
necessary to show what has been accom- 
plished within a few brief decades. 

Beginning with the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company, which was organized in June, 
1865, the plant of which now covers 160 
acres, one stands in wonderment at the mar- 
velous strides made in the mechanical world. 
The construction of the steel plant at what 
is now the city of Steelton (for city it ought 
to be termed), was commenced in December, 
1865, and was ready for operation in May, 
1867. On the 25th day of the same month, 
the first steel ingots ever produced in 
Pennsylvania by the Bessemer process 
were made. The rail mill of the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Company went into operation 
May 15, 1868. The importance to the rail- 
road interests of the country, and to all con- 
sumers, of the successful commencement, at 
these works, of the manufacture of steel rails 
has been very great, and probably no one 
can appreciate the value to the country of 
the business which began at these works at 
that date. During the first years of opera- 
tion the steel ingots were hammered before 
rolling in the Forge Department, where they 
had what was at that time the largest steam 
hammer in the country. The practice of 
hammering was continued until December, 
1876, when the present Blooming Mill No. 
1 went into operation. Since that time the 
steam hammers have been employed in the 
production of forgings and other shapes of 
special steel. In 1875 the company increased 
its capacity for the production of steel by 
erecting an open hearth furnace plant. The 
original open hearth plant was later replaced 
by one of greatly increased capacity, and the 
capacity has been increased several times by 
the addition of new furnaces. The original 
Bessemer plant, known now as Bessemer No. 
1, had two converters, the nominal capacity 
of five tons each. In 1881 an additional 
Bessemer plant, known as Bessemer No. 2, 
was completed and put in operation. This 
plant has three converters of ten tons ca- 
pacity each, and was arranged and con- 
structed on plans which secured great facili- 
ties for handling material and products, and 
enabled it to develop great capacity of pro- 
duction. The company commenced the 
erection of blast furnaces in 1872 to produce 
pig iron for their own purposes, and com- 
14 



pleted No. 1 furnace in 1873, No. 2 fur- 
nace in 1875, No. 3 furnace in 1883, and 
No. 4 furnace in 1884. These furnaces are 
of highly approved designs, with the Whit- 
well patent hot blast stoves, and have pro- 
duced outputs of iron comparing favorably 
with an}' blast furnaces in the country. 
Rolling mills for making steel bars of the 
various sizes and shapes, known as " mer- 
chant bars," were erected in 1882, the plant 
taking the name of " merchant mill," the 
product of the same consisting of merchant 
bars, billets, rail splices, angles, and various 
other shapes. This plant has been enlarged 
by the billet mill building, with a large 
amount of machinery used in finishing the 
product. In 1885 there was added to the 
Forge Department a train of rolls of the type 
known as "universal," driven by a powerful 
reversing engine, for rolling special qualities 
of steel into slabs and blooms of dimensions 
required by manufacturers of plates, etc., and 
this branch of manufacture has been fully 
employed. In 1886 an additional mill, 
called Blooming Mill No. 2, was erected for- 
the preparation of special steel required by 
manufacturers of nails, etc., and has also pro- 
duced a great product. The manufacture 
of switches, steel rail frogs, crossings, etc., 
commenced in 1872, and this branch having 
met with great encouragement from railway 
managers in various parts of the country, 
has been enlaiged from time to time. 

A substantial and handsome brick build- 
ing 478 feet long and 78 feet wide was 
erected in 1882, replacing the building pre- 
viously used for this business, and still 
greater enlargement having become expedi- 
ent there was erected a very large addition, 
consisting principally of one building 210 
feet long, 125 wide; another building 144 
feet long and 35 feet wide. These buildings 
have been fitted with the most approved ap- 
pliances for the production of frogs, switches, 
&c, and the business has grown to very large 
proportions, conducted under the title of 
Frog, Switch and Signal Department. In 
1893 a slabbing mill for rolling slabs, plates 
and other structural material was erected, 
still further adding to the immensity of the 
plant. The company next organized a de- 
partment for the manufacture of bridges, 
viaducts, roofs, buildings and other construc- 
tions, under the title of Bridge and Construc- 
tion Department. Several large buildings 
have been erected for the purposes of this de- 
partment, and it has entered upon a very 



154 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



busj' career. Departments for the manufac- 
ture and removal of various appliances were 
found necessary at an early day in the his- 
tory of the compan}', and a foundry, ma- 
chine shop and smith shop went into opera- 
tion in 1867. These were enlarged "from 
time to time with substantial buildings, 
which at the present day rank among the 
largest plants of this description in the State, 
with building appliances in all manner of 
machine tools and other appliances for the 
reproduction and repairs of the heaviest class 
of machinery used in the works. In 1867 
the company's yearlv product of steel ingots 
was 1,005 tons; in 1890 it was 304,488 tons. 
This gives some idea ofthecompany'sgrowth. 
In 1890 the product of one day was nearly 
equal to the whole year's product of 1867. 
The total product of steel ingots from 1867 
to 1895 was four millions, twenty-six thou- 
sand, eight hundred and four tons! ! Think 
of this, if you can, and pause while you 
think. There was a decrease in the output 
of the years 1891, 1892, 1893 and 1894, 
owing in part to the general business de- 
pression and also to a change in the charac- 
ter of the product. A great proportion of 
the rails now manufactured are for electric 
roads, and are much more difficult to make 
than for steam roads. The immense acreage 
of the company lies between the Pennsylva- 
nia railroad, and the Pennsylvania canal. 
The length of the plot is over a mile and a 
quarter, and the view presented to those pass- 
ing in the trains of the Pennsylvania road is 
one of decided and unusual interest. The 
tremendous quantities of metal to be seen 
from the train invariably attract attention, 
and persons frequently imagine the metal to 
be held for speculation, until they learn that 
the monthly requirements are twenty-five to 
thirty thousand tons. The movement of the 
vast amount of material daily required in 
the works is a matter requiring extensive 
facilities, and the companj' has over twenty 
locomotives of various sizes plying upon 
tracks equal in extent to upwards of thirty 
miles of single track railroad. The freight 
cars received and dispatched in some weeks 
exceed 2,500, or 400 per day. The pay roll 
of the company embraces five thousand 
names, and the annual disbursements for 
labor is nearty two million dollars. There 
are over 20,000 persons who have their sup- 
port directly from this company's disburse- 
ments for labor alone, and when we consider 
the disbursements for materials, supplies, 



&c, and for the freight paid to the railroad 
companies carrying the materials, &c, and 
endeavor to estimate the extent to which the 
material interests of those in various ways 
related to or in some manner dependent on 
the successful prosecution of this immense 
enterprise, we may safely estimate the im- 
portance of this company's affairs affects a 
population equal to that of many congres- 
sional districts. It was computed b} r a re- 
cognized statistician that the railroad ton- 
nage due to the transportation of the mate- 
rials and products of a similar and less im- 
portant establishment for a year represented 
more ton miles than the business of the great 
State of Texas for a corresponding period. 

The works are reached by the tracks of 
the Pennsylvania railroad, also by the 
tracks of the Philadelphia & Reading rail- 
road. This industry has given birth to a 
city. Steelton is the outgrowth of the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Company. Twenty-one years 
ago the site of the town was nothing but farm 
lands, to-day it is a bustling community 
that holds within her corporate limits 
several other lai'ge industries that would 
reflect credit upon any metropolis in the 
country, and which are known from the 
Atlantic to the Pacific on account of their 
various products. Steelton is a well built 
city, mostly of brick, it is also well paved 
and is equipped with gas, water, electric 
light and electric railway accommodations. 
The Steelton high school is one of the best 
structures in the State; there are palatial 
residences and comforts, and all the stores 
and commercial interests are thriving. 
Samuel Morse Felton founded the enter- 
prise and organized the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company. He was born July 17, 1809. At 
the age of, fourteen he was employed as a 
clerk in a grocery store in Boston, and while 
there fitted himself for Harvard College, 
from which he graduated in 1834, begin- 
ning the study of law. For the benefit of 
his health he soon adopted the profession of 
civil engineering, and in 1838 engaged in 
railroad construction in New England. In 
1845 he became superintendent, and in 1871 
he became president of the Philadelphia, 
Wilmington & Baltimore railroad, and re- 
moved to Philadelphia. Paralysis com- 
pelled him to retire in 1865 for a short 
time. After several months of rest, in con- 
nection with J. Edgar Thomson, president 
of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, 
and others, he took up the manufacture of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



155 



steel rails, and the result was the organiza- 
tion of the Pennsylvania Steel Company. 
Mr. Felton was elected president, and held 
that position during his life. He died Jan- 
uary 24, 18S9, aged nearly 80 years. He 
was a man of marvelous executive ability, 
and was deeply interested in the welfare of 
the company. His genial presence and 
wise counsel have been greatly missed by 
former associates, and his memory is highly 
honored by all who knew him in public 
and private life. The Pennsylvania Steel 
Company was fortunate in securing, in 1874, 
the services of Maj. Luther S. Bent as super- 
intendent. From the date of his engage- 
ment by the company the history of the 
same has been one of continual progress 
and great prosperity. The devotion with 
which he managed the multidinous affairs of 
the company has never been exceeded in 
any similar enterprise. By his grasp of its 
affairs, and his foresight, he has been en- 
abled to conduct it with a success, the fame 
of which is world-wide. During the latter 
years of Mr. Felton's life, Major Bent as- 
sumed the position of general manager and 
vice-president, and upon the death of Mr. 
Felton was chosen president and continued 
such until 1896 when Mr. Edgar C. Felton, 
son of the first president, was elected. The 
general superintendent of the companj'is Mr. 
Harry H. Campbell, who has charge of the 
practical affairs of the manufacturing depart- 
ments, and upon his shoulders rests agreat re- 
sponsibility, which he assumes with the 
confidence born of success. The president 
and general manager of the company, Mr. 
Edgar C. Felton, is the guiding spirit 
of the company's affairs, a born executive, 
a master of intricate detail and is possessed 
of that spirit of public progress so essential 
to the commercial success of all communi- 
ties. 

The Chesapeake Nail Works, Central Iron 
Works, and the Universal Mill, under prac- 
tically one management, come next in indus- 
trial productiveness. The plant of the 
Chesapeake Nail Works was erected on the 
present site in the year 1866, by Mr. Charles 
L. Bailey. Twice since the building was 
erected misfortune has fallen upon it. In 
1878 a terrible explosion occurred, partially 
demolishing the machinery and buildings. 
It was subsequently rebuilt, only to undergo 
the same misfortune by fire in September, 
1882. Mr. Bailey, not disheartened, deter- 
mined to carry on the business, rebuilt the 



plant on a larger scale. Under one immense 
roof are now to be found a puddle mill, plate 
mill,, nail factoiy, blacksmith department, 
etc. The various buildings of this plant 
cover a space of about four acres. The com- 
pany employs 400 men, skilled and experi- 
enced in the manufacture of iron and steel 
nails and tack plates. There are 103 nail 
machines in operation, and an immense 
warehouse, capable of storing 16,000 kegs of 
nails. 

The Central Iron Works has long enjoyed 
a reputation for superior quality of iron and 
steel boiler plates. Both are used all over 
the country in the largest boiler shops, 
bridge building and locomotive works, and 
by consumers generally. Their plant is one 
of the largest and most complete in the 
United States. It consists of two three-high 
plate mills, with all the necessary adjuncts, 
of the most modern construction, of large 
capacity (25,000 tons annually) and capable 
of rolling almost any sized plates required. 
They have also added a new universal mill, 
the largest and most complete of its kind, 
capable of making plates 42 inches wide 
and of any lengths and thickness required. 
Capacity, about 50,000 tons annually. Their 
business extends to all parts of the United 
States, from Maine to California. The mills 
cover several acres, the universal mill being 
200 feet wide by 4U0 feet long, the entire 
building being made of steel. The plant is 
equipped throughout with machinery of the 
latest modern construction, having its own 
electric light and power plant for lighting 
and running its large electric cranes. The 
mill is second to none, and has the reputa- 
tion of manufacturing the best of all kinds 
of iron and steel used in the construction of 
bridges, buildings, &c. 

The Universal Mill was built in the year 
1892, it being the largest and best equipped 
mill of its kind in the country. The Uni- 
versal Mill is engaged in the manufacture of 
all kinds of bridge construction iron and 
steel, which is shipped to all parts of the 
United States from Maine to San Francisco. 
Large shipments are made to the New Eng- 
land States, where the demand for the pro- 
duct of the mill is steadily increasing. This 
concern has just completed an immense con- 
tract for a firm in San Francisco, which will 
go down in the annals of commercial history 
as an example of progress in mechanical 
skill seldom, if ever, equalled. The Uni- 
versal Mill occupies a building 150 feet wide 



156 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



and 500 feet long, the roof of the same being 
entirely of iron. The capacity of the mill 
is 200 tons of finished steel per day. . The 
plant is equipped throughout with machinery 
of the latest improved kind, capable of roll- 
ing out plates 100 feet long, 42 inches wide, 
in gauge from three-eighths of an inch to 
one inch in thickness. The Universal Mill 
has turned out 256 tons of finished steel in 
twenty-four hours. This is wonderfully quick 
work, considering the immense weight. The 
plant has its own electric motors and dyna- 
mos, which furnish power for running large 
electric cranes and manufacturing electric 
light for themselves, the Central Iron Works 
and the Chesapeake Nail Works. The mill 
is also equipped with two immense cranes 
having a capacity of lifting twenty tons and 
carrying the same to any place in the mill — 
to the distance of 500 feet if necessar}'. Be- 
sides electric and hydraulic cranes used for 
lifting and unloading steel slabs, ingots, cars, 
etc., there are a number of overhead travel 
cranes with 36 and 65 feet spans. In this 
department are two large Todd reversing en- 
gines 30x60, also pumps used for hydraulic 
pressure, which can give 900 pounds pressure 
to the square inch. In the electrical depart- 
ment, besides test motors, there is a battery 
of ten boilers of 100-horse power each. The 
mill is second to none, and has the reputa- 
tion of manufacturing the best and all kinds 
of iron and steel used in the construction of 
bridges, etc. 

The Harrisburg Foundry and Machine 
Works was incorporated in 1891, previous to 
which time it was the Harrisburg Car Manu- 
facturing Company. The main building, 
the machine shop, pattern shop, yards, of- 
fices, etc., cover between three and four 
acres. The annual output of the concern 
is large, and the pay roll presents a formid- 
able array of figures. The number of the 
employed varies from three hundred to 
four hundred, all of whom are skilled me- 
chanics, drawing salaries that are in keeping 
with their skill. A large portion of the trade 
of the company is handled by New York, 
Philadelphia and Boston concerns. Among 
the many large contracts on hand may be 
mentioned one for two eight-hundred horse- 
power engines at Wilkes-Barre, Pa. They 
have just completed a large contract for the 
Soldiers' Orphans' Home at Scotland, Pa., and 
are also engaged upon a large contract for 
the Philadelphia, Castle Rock & West Ches- 
ter Electric Railway. The company manu- 



factures the Weitmeyer Patent Furnace, 
which saves from 15 to 20 per cent, in fuel. 
This furnace is to be seen under hun- 
dreds of boilers. The scope of the work of 
this concern is so great that a detailed list of 
its many products would be too long for a 
single perusal, and a few will be mentioned. 
The company is prepared, with endless beau- 
tifully executed cuts and engravings, to sup- 
ply all information of whatsoever kind re- 
garding their goods and correspondence is 
solicited. A superb set of cuts, executed 
upon the finest calendered card paper will be 
sent upon application to consulting engineers, 
architects, electricians and purchasers. They 
are pleased to submit them as a suggestion 
of the most advanced work in the line of au- 
tomatic engines, simple and compound, and 
especially their happy adaptation to direct- 
connected electric generators. A large num- 
ber of the Harrisburg Ide and Ideal engines, 
direct-connected, are now in operation — a 
method that will probably prevail in the 
near future for all first-class installations. 
Owing to the large variety of sizes of Ide and 
Ideal, or side and center-crank engines, the 
Harrisburg Foundry and Machine Works is 
prepared to meet all requirements for elec- 
tric light and railway work, direct-connected 
or otherwise. In all the conventional and 
essential characteristics of automatic regu- 
lation, stability, good workmanship and 
economy, these engines are not excelled. In 
addition to the positive and constant lubrica- 
tion of the Ideal engine, it enjoys the unique 
distinction of being the only self-oiling hori- 
zontal steam engine in the world — self-oiling 
without the parts being submerged in oil, 
without waste or throwing oil either upon 
the floor or belts, or if direct-connected, into 
the generator, and its ability to do uninter- 
mitted work, absolutely noiseless in opera- 
tion and economy in oil are all features not 
obtained in any other engine. In this respect 
the Ideal has no peer and recognizes no com- 
petitor. Over 1,500 Ide and Ideal engines 
are in use, aggregating over 200,000 horse- 
power! Catalogues will be furnished upon 
application for simple and compound engines, 
boilers, etc. The Harrisburg Foundry and 
Machine Works has an endless variety of 
beautifully printed, engraved and half-tone 
matter, all of which is to enlighten the trade. 
This concern has a printed list over twenty 
feet long, in nonpareil type and unleaded, 
which contains the names of the firms that 
have purchased Ide and Ideal engines, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



157 



includes the West Indies, Brazil, France, 
Sweden, Canada, British Columbia, Africa, 
etc. It is a splendid enterprise, and we 
are pleased to announce the fact to the 
commercial world. The company does steam 
engineering in all its branches and contracts 
for complete steam power plants, boilers, 
tanks, stacks, etc., and is the sole manufac- 
turer of the Harrisburg Double Engine Steam 
Road Roller. Harrisburg may well be proud 
of such an industry. 

The oldest of the large industrial estab- 
lishments is that of the W. 0. Hickok Man- 
ufacturing Company. This company was 
established in the year 1848 by the late W. 
0. Hickok, and no other concern in Penn- 
sylvania lias given such a unique representa- 
tion as this company, whose manufactures 
are shipped to all parts of the civilized world. 
The plant of this industry covers nearly two 
acres of ground, requiring over 40,000 square 
feet of floor space in order to meet all the re- 
quirements of their increasing trade. The 
company is engaged in the wholesale manu- 
facture of paper ruling machines, Jones' sig- 
nature presses, Hickok roller backers, Hickok 
knife grinding machine, Hickok book saw- 
ing machine, Hickok gilding presses, Hickok 
standing presses, Hickok table shears, Hickok 
paging machine, Hickok numbering ma- 
chine, Hickok round cover cutter, Hickok 
rotary board cutter, etc., bookbinders' ma- 
chinery, full bindery outfits and so on until 
the list of the vastly useful and particularly 
well-made products of the company seems 
interminable. During the past three years 
the company had a large number of orders 
from the Old World. The trade in this coun- 
try embraces every town and city of promi- 
nence from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and 
from Maine to the Gulf. The machine de- 
partment building, foundry, offices, etc., pre- 
sent an impressive view of commercial sta- 
bility and progress and, as was noted before, 
cover one and a half acres of ground. The 
machine department, on North street, is 
50x150 feet in dimensions. The basement is 
half used for roughing out the lumber used, 
and half for the storage of iron pipe and bar 
irons; the first floor as the machine depart- 
ment; second floor wood working depart- 
ment; third floor painting, varnishing and 
storage. The first floor is used as a machine 
works, and the second is a store room, etc. 
The company employs over a hundred peo- 
ple, all experienced in their various depart- 
ments, who are engaged the year through. 



The capital stock of the company is $250,000- 
and the office is a scene of busy people trans- 
acting the business of a large and particu- 
larly successful company. W. O. Hickok, 
the founder of the concern, and later its pres- 
ident after its incorporation, was for a long 
time an invalid, died in 1891, at quite an ad- 
vanced age, deeply mourned by the many 
who had become acquainted with his sym- 
pathetic personality and his broad views of 
humanity. Before he passed away he made 
a stipulation in his will to the effect that he 
wanted the W. O. Hickok Manufacturing 
Company to maintain its present firm title 
so long as the business shall exist. In the 
machinery building all the works and ma- 
chines are operated by electric power, which 
gives better results than steam. The plant 
is also lighted throughout \>y means of elec- 
tricity. 

The Lalance and Grosjean Manufacturing 
Company erected the rolling mill depart- 
ment of their giant enterprise in Harrisburg, 
in 1892. With imposing ceremonies the 
establishment was opened in February, 1893. 
The Harrisburg plant covers over four acres 
of ground. The first structure erected was 
220 by 280 feet, but so grand was the success 
of the undertaking that an annex 80 by 160 
feet was soon added, thus making the entire 
plant 288 by 380 feet. All work is now ex- 
ecuted under one roof, but in different de- 
partments and under a splendidly systematic 
method. A bar mill, sheet mill, tin mill 
and appointments, a 5,000 pound steam 
hammer, two run-out fires, four charcoal 
fires, immense pair of bar shears, three 
double shears, three large engines and a bat- 
tery of ten boilers of 125,000 horse power 
and which consumes 175 tons of coal per 
week, are a few of the expensive equipments 
of the plant. The concern gives employ- 
ment to over 225 hands, which, using the 
accepted average, makes 1,125 people who 
derive their subsistence from the products 
of the enterprise. Concerns of this character 
are of great moment to the local retail trade 
and are of paramount importance to the 
local property owners. The company man- 
ufactures tin plate and "black plate," which 
is shipped to their immense plant at Wood- 
haven, L. I., where they employ from 1,400 
to 1,800 people, and where tin plate and 
black steel iron sheets are converted into all 
kinds of cooking utensils, and which are 
sold all over the civilized world. The out- 
put of the company is tremendous and the 



158 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



names of Lalance and Grosjean are syno- 
nyms of progress in every household where 
order and neatness reign. 

The Harrisburg Manufacturing Company 
was organized in 1889 and incorporated 
June 10, 1895, the capital stock being $100,- 
000. The manufacture of boilers for steam 
and hot water, heating and for power is the 
business of the concern, the specialties being 
star water tube, volcano water tube, star gas 
burner, horizontal tubular and vertical 
boilers. The company's boilers are applied 
to all manner and styles of engines, and 
have many points of vantage that can best 
be understood by perusing its catalogue, 
whichgives in detail what must necessarily 
be omitted in a comparatively brief article. 
The Harrisburg Manufacturing and Boiler 
Company has acquired a plant equipped 
throughout with the most modern tools 
and appliances of such general perfection 
that they are unsurpassed either as to 
facilities or the character of their pro- 
duct. The company is specially equipped 
for the manufacture of complete and perfect 
boilers of the styles mentioned before. The 
boilers of this company have been brought 
up to the very highest standard, both as to 
workmanship and efficiency, and the com- 
pany respectfully invites careful considera- 
tion of all claims in this direction. Know- 
ing that their efforts have been recognized 
and appreciated in the past, it is the aim of the 
company to maintain the highest standard, 
and to excel, if possible, the well-established 
character of their product, keeping, in all 
respects, alive to the spirit and requirements 
of the times. The trade of the company 
extends throughout the length and breadth 
of the land, and their boilers are in great 
favor with all who have used them — the 
rapidity with which they gather steam, their 
safety and their tremendous powers of re- 
sistance in the matter of pressure and their 
almost indestructible qualities have made 
them prime favorites in the manufactories of 
America. The quality of boiler iron used 
is tested by the latest recognized and ap- 
proved methods, and when in the shape of 
the finished product is as near perfection 
as human skill, ingenuity and money can 
bring it. The company employs sixty peo- 
ple in the conduct of their business, and oc- 
cupies a very large three-story brick struc- 
ture, which contains the office, foundry and 
general work rooms. The firm also makes 
a specialty of general repairs, and in this 



line probabl}' do more than any similar con- 
cern in this entire section of the State. 

The Paxton and Steelton Flouring Mill 
Company was incorporated in February, 
1891, for the manufacture of high grade 
flour, assuming control at once, through a 
lease for a term of years, of the Paxton Flour 
Mills, of Harrisburg, and the Steelton Flour- 
ing Mills, of Steelton. The Paxton Mills, 
owned by the estate of James McCormick; 
dec'd, in 1862 succeeded the Eagle Mills, 
and increased its daily capacity from fifteen 
barrels to one hundred barrels. In 1879 the 
old frame building was torn down, and the 
present large stone mill erected and fitted 
out for the burr process, with a daily capacity 
of 350 barrels, but in 18S0 the mill was 
changed from the old burr process to the 
new roller process — being the first mill in 
Pennsylvania to adopt the roller process — 
with a daily capacity of 500 barrels ; since 
then the capacity has been gradually in- 
creased to meet the demands of its trade, 
until it is now 750 barrels. The leading 
brands of this mill are " Paxton " and 
" Hoffer's Best," which have been on the 
local markets since 1862 and 1880 respec- 
tively, and " Castilla," which has been on 
foreign markets since 1868. The entire 
plant at the Paxton Mills consists of engine 
and boiler house, 40x40, and mill proper, 
64x85, five stories high, warehouse, 64x85, 
one story high, all built of heavy limestone; 
elevator, six stories high, built of stone and 
slated frame, with capacity of 80,000 bushels. 
Also a cooper plant, consisting of a stock 
house, 50x120, two stories high ; two barrel 
houses with a storage capacity of 15,000 
barrels ; a factory 30x120, fitted up with the 
most improved machinery, with a daily 
capacity of 1,500 barrels. The Steelton Mill 
was built in 1882, by The Steelton Flouring 
Mills Company, fitted up with a full roller 
process, with a daily capacity of 500 barrels, 
but has since been increased to 750 barrels. 
The leading brands of this mill for local 
trade are " Hercules," "Pearl," and "Stella," 
and for export, "Crystal," which have been 
on the market since 1883. The entire plant 
of the Steelton Mill consists of a brick engine 
and boiler house, 54x62, brick mill building, 
62x74, five stories high, one brick warehouse, 
50x78, three stories high, and one warehouse 
built of frame and corrugated iron, 34x120, 
one-story high, one slated-frame elevator, 
40x62, five stories high, and cooper building, 
now used for barrel storage, with a capacity 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



159 



for 10,000 barrels. In its various depart- 
ments this company employs 150 men. 

In 1885 the Boll Brothers Manufacturing 
Company established its enterprise, and a 
company incorporated in 1893. For eight 
years it had been known as the Harrisburg 
Woven Wire Mattress Company. Its author- 
ized capital was §100,000. The company 
occupies a splendid five-story brick building 
with dimensions 40x180 feet, which is 
equipped throughout with all the latest im- 
proved machine^ for the special manufac- 
ture of their several grades of intricate and 
beautiful workmanship. There are some 
seventy people employed, and the represent- 
atives on the road cover the New England 
and Middle and Southern States. There are 
few thoroughly first-class, completely stocked 
furniture concerns in the country that do 
not handle the splendid goods of Boll Broth- 
ers Manufacturing Company. The goods 
sell themselves ; their beauty, solidity and 
intricate workmanship being silently elo- 
quent. of the merits of the same. Losses by 
fire in no way impeded the progress of the 
company, whose able president, Mr. Charles 
Boll, seems fitted by nature to surmount 
difficulties that would discourage most men 
of his years — he is not yet thirty — and to 
gather strength from his misfortunes. The 
building and equipment are models in every 
particular, the system that has been evolved 
is perfection itself. The fifth floor of the 
factory is devoted to a feather purifying de- 
partment, which is unique and original, 
being one of the latest and improved pro- 
cesses. The model picking room, on the 
fourth floor, has a granolithic floor, and is 
lined with asbestos, thus avoiding any possi- 
bility of fire. Here the material is carefully 
sorted and picked. The latest improved 
machinery is employed, notably Boll's cotton 
curler, which gives the company the exclu- 
sive franchise to manufacture curled cotton 
mattresses. The first floor is devoted to the 
elegant offices and immense sample room, 
where a sample of every product of the com- 
pany is kept to show customers. The man- 
agers are all practical men, educated in 
every detail of the business and all work 
and material are subjected to their personal 
inspection and direction. Every brass and 
iron bedstead, spring mattress, etc., made by 
the company meets every requirement of the 
trade, which explains t he high appreciation 
in which dealers and the public hold their 



goods. The company manufactures only 
for the wholesale trade. 

Reference has already been made to the 
early development of the Lykens Valley 
coal regions, and in this connection it is im- 
portant to refer again to these celebrated 
mines in the upper end of Dauphin county. 
The Lykens Valley coal is mined by two 
coal companies, the Short Mountain of Wic- 
onisco, and the Summit Branch of Williams- 
town, both collieries now being controlled 
by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. 
The two collieries employ over 2,000 men 
and boys, who are paid on the third Satur- 
day of each month for all work done during 
the previous month. Thomas M. William's 
is superintendent of both collieries. The 
following table shows the output for the 
present year, 1896, up to August 15, together 
with the amount shipped in 1895 to the 
same day, giving increase and decrease of 
each colliery : 

WEEK. YEAR. 

Short Mountain. . 4.794 17 155,332 19 

Last year, .... 4.497 08 116,321 09 

Increase, .... 297 09 39,011 lo 

Williamstown, . . 4,925 11 177,603 17 

Last year, .... 6,242 06 214,212 09 

Decrease,. . . . 1,316 15 36,608,12 

Total amount. . . 9.720 08 332,936 16 

Last year, .... 10,739 14 33o',533 18 

The Hummelstown Brownstone Companv 
was established in 1867, and the quarries, lo- 
cated about three miles from that enterprising 
town, have been worked for thirty years past. 
For the last eighteen years, hoVever, they 
have been more extensively operated, owino- 
to the change of ownership and the business 
facilities and enterprise of the new manage- 
ment. The plant consists of a railroad of 
some three and a-half miles, with extensive 
sidings, four locomotives and a number of 
freight and passenger cars. There is a large 
stone saw mill of thirteen gangs, with a large 
stonecutter shop, thoroughly equipped with 
rub wheels and ten stone planers, together 
with all necessary appliances for doing first- 
class cut stone work. There are four quarry 
openings, with some thirty steam hoist der- 
ricks, and in prosperous times the number 
of men employed has amounted to about 
600. The capacity of the quarries is prac- 
tically unlimited, and in the summer season 
as many as forty cars of stone have been 
shipped in one day. Perchance no similar 



160 



HISTORICAL REVIEW 



quarries in the United States are so thoroughly 
equipped in every respect with machinery 
and proper appliances, and these quarries 
are recognized as amongst the largest in the 
United States. The building stone taken 
therefrom is of the most durable character, 
and the climate does not seem to have any 
effect upon it. It may be proper to state 
that Professor Pond, who made an analysis 
of the brownstone, says that in comparison 
it is placed among the best, as far as the 
chemical determination of the constituents 
is capable of indicating, while Professor 
Reber, in testing the stone for compression 
states, that the crushing strain averaged 
over seven hundred tons to the square foot, 
showing that the stone is of excellent quality 
for building purposes. It ma}' be well said 
that the Brownstone Company has been one 
of the most successful in the State of Penn- 
sylvania, due to the fact of its high grade 
and excellence as building material. 

In the month of May, 1880, there was es- 
tablished at Middletown an industry which 
advanced with such marvelous strides thatit 
has developed into the largest manufacturing 
pipe and tube works in the United States, if 
not in the world. The new plant started 
with about seventy-five men, which rapidly 
increased until with the supplemental plant 
at Youngstown, Ohio, two thousand persons 
are employed. The magnitude of the Ameri- 
can Tube and Iron Company, at Middle- 
town, must be seen to be properly estimated. 
The mills are equipped to make all dimen- 
sions of pipe. The sizes of pipe made in the 
butt mills run from 1-16 inch diameter to 
1\ inches diameter, whilst the sizes made in 
the lap mill range from 1J inches diameter 
to 20 inches diameter. A large galvanizing 
works filled with three immense baths is in 
constant operation galvanizing pipes. Three 
car loads of spelter are used per week for this 
purpose. This department is kept so busy 
that it was found absolutely necessary to en- 
large it, and it was only recently that changes 
were made which increased its output fifty 
per cent., thus giving employment to addi- 
tional workmen. As it is not proposed to 
bring within the scope of this notice the 
methods of manufacturing pipe, no mention 
can be made of the many departments and 
buildings wherein pipes, tubes and fittings 
pass through the various stages of manufac- 
ture before being ready for market. It is the 
admirable equipment of these mills and their 
mechanical departments that has ever distin- 



guished the American Tube and Iron Com- 
pany from other pipe concerns, and enables 
it to undertake successfully special lines of 
work requiring the highest engineering 
knowledge and skill to develop and apply 
the same with the greatest accuracy of de- 
tail. This is one of the reasons why, during 
the dullest business seasons when all trade 
seems to flag, the mills are able to keep their 
large army of workmen fully employed; a 
body of men keenly alive to the value of 
steady employment, and for whose welfare 
they have made ample assurance. 

For the character of work the American 
Tube & Iron Company could easily claim 
supremacy. Several years ago, by way of 
illustration, the mill was running day and 
night for about one hundred miles of eight- 
inch pipe to convey natural gas from the 
Indiana fields to Chicago. Six of the largest 
pipe concerns of the United States endeav- 
ored to meet the rigorous requirements of 
this company, but unsuccessfully. Every 
gas and oil field has the pipe manufactured 
by this company in use. Among its largest 
customers is the Standard Oil Companj', for 
whom it has furnished hundreds of miles of 
pipe. The Sandwich Islands and other 
prominent countries have afforded promis- 
ing fields for the production of this great in- 
dustry. For the great success of these works 
much is due to the enterprise and energy of 
the Mathesons. 

Apart from this mammoth industry there 
are other enterprises at Middletown, which in 
•prosperous times have added very much to 
the progress of that thriving town. It has 
always been an important manufacturing 
center, and contains within and around it all 
the elements to make it a great industrial 
point. 

For a period of nearly forty years the Mc- 
Cormick estate has had control and manage- 
ment of the Paxton furnaces, which in the 
flush times of the iron trade have been suc- 
cessfully carried on, and the production of 
iron profitable demonstrated. The capacity 
of these furnaces is about twelve hundred 
tons of pig iron per month. In connection 
with these furnaces there is a rolling mill 
which has been one of the most successful 
enterprises in this locality. The main build- 
ings cover an area of ground, 250 by 160 
feet, while the puddle mill has a large num- 
ber of double puddling fornaces and a ca- 
pacity of about 150 tons per week. 

The Jackson Manufacturing Company 




WM. H. EGLE, M. D. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



163 



was established in 1880 with a paid up capi- 
tal of $50,000, but owing to the vast increase 
of business, in 1889 the stock was increased 
to §100,000. The company has a large and 
substantial building which extends a whole 
block, from New Fourth street to Fulton 
street along Boyd avenue. The plant 
throughout is equipped with all the latest ap- 
pliances and improved machinery, including 
heating furnaces, hydraulic presses, drills, etc. 
The reputation of the Jackson Manufactur- 
ing Company is not only confined to the 
United States, but extends throughout North 
and South America, and across the waters. 
They construct the highest grade, scientifi- 
cally, steel wheelbarrows for all purposes, 
used by mills, large industries, miners, rail- 
roads, public works, etc. At present twenty- 
five experienced hands are employed at these 
works. During the busy season this num- 
ber is doubled. A few years ago this com- 
pany received a medal and diploma from 
the Exposition University at Barcelona, 
Spain.. 

To show how the varied manufacturing 
industries thrive and succeed at Harrisburg, 
we need only refer, in conclusion, to the 
manufacturing of shoes. The establishments 
of Forney Brothers & Company, Bay Shoe 
Company, and the Harrisburg Boot and 
Shoe Manufacturing Company, with two 
others, incorporated, whose combined pro- 
ducts are valued at nearly a half million of 



dollars, go to show how successful these en- 
terprises have proven to be in the Capital 
City. 

Although the foregoing industrial estab- 
lishments are more prominent owing to their 
extensive works and the large sum of money 
invested therein, still there are other indus- 
trial concerns intimately connected with the 
prosperity of Harrisburg whose total value 
of stock and machinery with the other pro- 
ductiveness amounts in value to hundreds 
of thousands of dollars. Limited as we must 
necessarily be, only an epitome of the indus- 
tries of a large manufacturing city, like Har- 
risburg, can be given. Its unequalled ad- 
vantages, its facilities for transportation, in 
the midst of one of most productive regions 
in America, give to Harrisburg a supremacy 
offered by no other city or town in the 
American Union. Capital has been invited, 
capital has located its establishments, and 
capital has received its rich reward. Closely 
allied to the various industries are the bank- 
ing institutions of the city. The various 
financial institutions havj always been of 
conservative management. And the new 
Harrisburg, and newer Steel ton, with ten 
millions of dollars in their banks, show alike 
to capitalists, manufacturers, and skilled 
labor that no better financial institutions 
and greater manufacturing enterprises exist 
anywhere. 



15 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



-OF- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Hills, Stephen, the architect of the State 
Capitol of Pennsylvania, was the fifth child 
of John and Sarah (Lewis) Hills, who were 
married in December, 1755, and had a family 
of seven sons and a daughter. Stephen, the 
fourth son, was born at Ashford, Kent county, 
England, August 10,1771. According to the 
custom of the times, he was " bound out for 
seven years" and apprenticed to a local house- 
wright, living in his "master's" family until 
his twenty-first birthday. In 1794 he mar- 
ried Margaret Ash by, of Pluckley, a parish 
village about five miles from Ashford. He 
was the first of five brothers who came to 
America, arriving at Boston in either 1796 
or 1797. His brothers Richard and William 
joined him in 1801, and subsequent to his 
departure for this city, about 1802, his broth- 
ers George and Joseph, and their widowed 
mother, came to the United States and settled 
in the capitol of New England. 

While a resident of Boston he was actively 
engaged in business and built several houses. 
The building erected for his own home in 
1799, in what was then the outskirts of the 
town, still stands in what is now a very thickly 
settled part of Boston. The city's geographi- 
cal center has passed it, and is now nearly a 
mile beyond its location. At how early a 
date he became a resident of Harrisburg is 
not known to his New England relatives, but 
it is believed that he built many of the houses 
of that city which were erected in the earlier 
part of the present century. His plans for 
the capitol of Pennsylvania were adopted, 
and he was the builder as well as the archi- 
tect of that edifice, the cornerstone of which 
was laid May 31, 1819. 

While on a visit to England his wife, Mar- 
garet Hills, died at Harrisburg, on Sunday, 
August 4, 1822, in the 51st year of her age, 
leaving four children. Sarah, who married 
November 26, 1821, Samuel White, and sub- 
sequently removed to Indianapolis, where she 
was living in 1845, and three sons, John, 
Stephen, and Thomas. Before returning to 
America Mr. Hills again married, and was 



for a short time once more a resident of Har- 
risburg. About 1825 he went to England 
for the last time and remained there about 
eleven years, and in the winter of 1836-7 re- 
turned to the United States. He is described 
by those who knew him at this tinqe as a 
man of large frame, weighing about two hun- 
dred and fifty pounds. In the spring of 1837 
he went to Jefferson city to build the capitol 
for the State of Missouri. The plans made 
for the Pennsylvania structure were accepted 
for this edifice, and so closely followed that 
the building was practically a duplicate of 
his earlier work. Immediately following 
the completion of the capitol, he commenced 
the erection of the university at Columbia, 
in that State, and finished his contract in the 
spring of 1843. He then retired from his 
profession and went to his farm in the west- 
ern part of Illinois (about twelve miles from 
St. Louis'). Here he died, October 17, 1844, 
leaving a widow and her children, two daugh- 
ters and a son ; and a son, daughter, and six 
grandchildren as descendants of himself and 
Margaret Ashby, his first wife. 

Stewart, Samuel, son of Samuel Stewart, 
born in the count}' Down, Ireland, was 
brought to Pennsylvania in the emigration 
of his father's family in 1735, and on com- 
ing of age settled as a farmer in Hanover 
township, Lancaster county, now West Han- 
over, Dauphin county, Pa., about 1750. His 
warrant for one hundred acres of land was 
dated May 17, 1754, and in an " assessment 
for the King's use, 1759, Samuel Stuart" is 
taxed five shillings. This township, estab- 
lished in 1737 and named in honor of the 
reigning family of Great Britain, almost ex- 
clusively settled by Scotch-Irish Presbyte- 
rians, was on the then frontier and contigu- 
ous to the Kittatinny mountains. From the 
date of his settlement therein, in 1754, until 
1764, on account of its proximity to the wil- 
derness, it was subject to Indian raids and 
depredations from which the inhabitants suf- 
fered fearfully in their persons and property, 



166 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



often being compelled to abandon their 
homes and fly for safety. This state of af- 
fairs continued until the massacre in Lan- 
caster of the Conestoga Indians, who were 
the aiders and abettors of these outrages. A 
public meeting of the citizens of Hanover 
township, June 4, 1774, has gone into his- 
tory, showing the earliest recorded movement 
toward independence, and, when the Revo- 
lutionary war began, the liberty-loving and 
patriotic Scotch-Irish of Hanover were found 
faithful and active participants. Samuel 
Stewart entered as a private, serving in Col. 
Timothy Green's battalion for the defense of 
the frontier, and, in June 6, 1776, in Capt. 
James Rodgers' company of Lancaster county 
associators, "destined for the camp in the 
Jerseys." On the erection and organization 
of the county of Dauphin, in 1785, we find 
him upon the first grand jury, composed of 
prominent citizens. A Presbyterian by birth 
and a supporter of the old Hanover church, 
founded in 1735, and situated eleven miles 
east of Harrisburg, the records show that on 
" November 2, 1788, Samuel Stewart and 
Nancy Stewart, his wife, were admitted to the 
Lord's table." Samuel Stewart died Septem- 
ber 16, 1803, and was buried in Hanover 
church graveyard. He was a large man, 
weighing two hundred and thirty pounds, 
six feet in height, eyes blue and complexion 
fair. His surviving wife, Agnes Calhoun, 
and his son, Samuel Elder Stewart, were the 
executors named in his will. He married, 
first, Nancy Templeton, daughter of Robert 
and Agnes Templeton, of Hanover; died 
1788, and buried in old Hanover church 
graveyard. Samuel Stewart married, sec- 
ondly, in 1789, Agnes (Nancy) Calhoun, born 
1763 ; died August 29, 1823 ; buried in the 
cemetery at Graysville, Huntingdon county, 
Pa.; daughter of William and Hannah Cal- 
houn, of Paxiang township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. On the death of her husband in 1803, 
she purchased a farm in West Hanover town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., adjoining the 
farm of Robert Stewart, ten miles east of Har- 
risburg, on the Jonestown road, where she 
remained until the spring of 1813, when she 
removed to Spruce Creek, Centre county, Pa. 

Hill, Samuel, son of Arundel and Char- 
lotte Hill, was born in 1765 in England. 
His ancestors belonged to one of the repre- 
sentative families of that country. He re- 
ceived a good English and classical educa- 
tion, and learned the trade of clock and 



watchmaker in London. He came to Penn- 
sylvania about 1785, and shortly afterwards 
established himself in business at Harris- 
burg, Pa. He was a skilled and ingenious 
workman. He was quite prominent in the 
early affairs of the new town, and was among 
the first to jump into the water to tear down 
the obnoxious mill-dam in the Paxtang 
creek, in 1795. He was a volunteer in 
Captain Reitzell's company on the expedi- 
tion westward in 1794; and twice visited 
England on matters connected with his 
father's estate, then considered quite an 
undertaking; and what particularly dis- 
tinguished his last visit was his reception 
by his fellow-citizens of Harrisburg on his 
return, which was an ovation showing what 
a strong hold he had upon his friends in 
America. He died very suddenly, while 
sitting in his chair on Monday evening, 
November 6, 1809, aged 44 years, and the 
Oracle of Dauphin speaks of his loss to the 
community as " irreparable." Mr. Hill mar- 
ried at Harrisburg, February 3, 1790, Nancy 
Beatty, daughter of James. Beatty and his 
wife Alice Ann Irwin. She was born May 
2, 1771, at Bally Red-Ednagound, county 
Down, Ireland, and died May 7, 1839, at 
Steuben ville, 0. 



Worrall, James, is a native of Limerick, 
Ireland, the son of John Worrall, of that city, 
merchant, who failed in business in conse- 
quence of some decree of the first Napoleon. 
He had cargoes of provisions on the ocean, 
and when the continental ports were closed 
against them they had to be sacrificed or rot 
in the ships, a fate which bankrupted their 
owner. He then emigrated to this country, 
and being a man of education he began 
teaching, in which occupation he successfully 
continued until his death, at Philadelphia, 
in 1S45. He left a large family, of whom 
James was the eldest. The latter entered 
the establishment of Carey, Lea & Co., book- 
sellers, where he remained several years, 
when he secured a position on an engineer 
corps under Judge F.'.W. Rawle. The first 
rod Mr. Worrall ever held was on a railroad 
in Northumberland county in 1831, and 
strauge to say, the road was only commenced 
to be built in 1882, more than half a century 
later than its preliminary survey. He con- 
tinued with Judge Rawle into 1832. In 
1833, under Judge Benjamin Wright, one of 
the engineers of the Erie canal, he assisted 
in making the surveys and maps of the great 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



167 



St. Lawrence canal, between Prescott and 
Cornwall. He then joined the engineer 
corps on the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, 
where he remained two years. In the fall 
of 1835 he helped Colonel Schlatter on a 
survey across New Jersey for a railroad from 
Trenton to New Brunswick, which, through 
the opposition of the Camden and Amboy 
railroad, was never built. Mr. Worrall then 
took service on the James river and Kanawha 
canal, under Judge Wright, consulting engi- 
neer, and Charles Ellet, Jr., constructing 
engineer. He was subsequently called back 
to Pennsylvania by Hother Hage to make a 
survey over the Alleghany mountains on a 
line from the Cumberland Valley to Pitts- 
burgh. He was given the division from 
Bedford across the mountains as far as the 
Laurel Hill, a reconnoissance from thence to 
Greensburg, and again a survey from the 
latter point to the Youghiougheny at the 
mouth of the Sewickly. This was in 1838, 
and here Mr. Worrall first showed his skill 
and judgment, but the fact of their existence 
was not to be discovered until some forty- 
five years afterwards, when the highest en- 
gineering ability of the year 1S82 was called 
upon for an opinion on the location then 
made; they unanimously pronounced it the 
true location for the road, the South Penn- 
sylvania, and adopted it without hesitation. 
There was some difficult engineering sug- 
gested by Colonel Worrall east of Bedford 
upon which the syndicate of engineers was 
called upon to pronounce, which also they 
unanimous^ approved. It is questionable 
whether it would not have been hard to find, 
in the early history of engineering, an engi- 
neer, who, locating a road upon a single ex- 
amination, so marked it as that the improved 
science of forty years later adopted it as the 
best without hesitation. He was afterwards 
engaged with Milnor Roberts as principal 
assistant engineer in the Erie extension of 
the Pennsylvania canal ; in 1844 he became 
interested with others in canal and railroad 
contracts in the United States and Canada. 
In 1850 he was chief engineer of the Union 
canal, where he continued until the comple- 
tion of its enlargement, when he became 
principal engineer on the western division 
of the Philadelphia and Erie railroad. Upon 
the completion of this work he returned to 
Harrisburg. After the year 1861 he acted 
as clerk in the quartermaster's department 
during the war. At the close of the Rebellion 
he was again engineering across the State for 



projected routes to the West ; afterwards on a 
canal survey in Illinois, returning to Penn- 
sylvania in 1869, since which period he has 
been prominently identified with the fishery 
commission of the State, and to him much 
that has been accomplished in that direction 
is due. 



Graydon, Mrs. Rachel (Marks), was a 
native of the Island of Barbadoes, and the 
eldest of four daughters. Her father, Mr. 
Marks — engaged in the West India trade — 
was of German birth ; her mother a native of 
Glasgow, Scotland. At the age of seven years 
her parents removed to Philadelphia, where 
Rachel was educated. She formed the ac- 
quaintance and married, about 1750, Alex- 
ander Graydon, a native of Longford, Ire- 
land, doing business at that time in the old 
town of Bristol, Bucks county, Pa. At this 
period the celebrated Dr. Baird wrote of her 
that she was "the finest girl in Philladelphia, 
having the manners of a lady bred at court." 
At the opening of the war of the Revolu- 
tion her oldest sons enlisted in the patriot 
army — one of whom, Alexander, has re- 
corded in the " Memoirs of a Life Passed in 
Pennsylvania" much concerning the ma- 
ternal affection, the fortitude and patriotic 
spirit of an American matron. Taken pris- 
oner at the capture of Fort Washington, the 
devoted mother, accomplished, by personal 
appeals, the parole of Captain Graydon. 

During the major part of the Revolution, 
Mrs. Graydon resided at Reading, and while 
there her house was " the seat of hospitality, 
and the resort of numerous guests of dis- 
tinction, including officers of the British 
army who were there stationed as prisoners 
of war." The Baron de Kalb was often 
there; and between her own and General 
Mifflin's family there was a strong intimacy 
existing. When the county of Dauphin was 
organized, the appointment of her son, 
Alexander, as prothonotary, occasioned her 
removal to Harrisburg. She was a lad}' 
much devoted to her family, and yet, in the 
early days of this city, she was prominent in 
deeds of love and charity. She died at Har- 
risburg at the residence of her son on the 
23d of January, 1807, aged 73 years, and is 
interred in the Harrisbure; cemeterv. 



Browx, William, of Paxtang, thus desig- 
nated in the act for the erection of the 
county of Dauphin to distinguish him from 
Capt. William Brown, of Hanover, a cousin. 



168 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Of the ancestry of tins prominent man and 
citizen we have the following: John Brown, 
"the pious carrier" of Muirkirk parish, Ayr- 
shire, Scotland, was captured by Graham, 
of Claverhouse, and his troops the first of 
May, 1685, and ordered to take the oath of 
conformity, which he refused to do. Claver- 
house bid him go to his prayers, because he 
had but a few minutes to live. He did pray 
with such power that when Claverhouse 
ordered his men to fire upon him they re- 
fused, and with a pistol and an oath he blew 
his brains out, and then turned to the widow 
and said, "What thinkest thou of thy hus- 
band now?" She answered, "I ever thought 
meikle of him, but never so meikle as I do 
this day." He said, " It were but justice to lay 
thee beside him." She answered, "If you 
were permitted, I doubt not but your cruelty 
would go that length ; but how will you 
answer for this morning's work?" "To man 
I can be answerable, and as for God I will 
take him into my own hand," he replied 
and rode away. She laid down her child, 
tied up her husband's head with her apron, 
stretched out his limbs, covered him with 
her plaid, and sat down and wept long and 
bitterly. Without means, without a friend 
to help, and liable to be persecuted, she was 
at her wit's end. But God cared for her and 
removed her to Ireland, where she found 
friends, and where she married again. From 
this second marriage sprung the Weir family 
of our county. John Brown's sons were 
James and John, both of whom came to 
America about 1720, the former settling on 
the Swatara, the latter in Paxtang. A son 
of John, born 30th of June, 1720, was Will- 
iam Brown, of Paxtang. He was a promi- 
nent actor in Provincial and Revolutionary 
times, a representative man on the frontier, 
and as might be supposed a zealous Cove- 
nanter. At his own expense he visited Ire- 
land and Scotland on behalf of his religious 
brethren to procure a supply of ministers, 
and brought over the celebrated divines 
Lind and Dobbins. He was a member of 
the Pennsylvania Assembly in 1776, and 
during its sessions proposed the gradual 
emancipation of slaves within the Common- 
wealth, a measure not very favorably re- 
ceived at the time, but which four years 
afterwards was enacted into a law. He 
served again in the Assembly in 1784, and 
was a member of the Board of Property De- 
cember 5, 1785. He was afterwards, Octo- 
ber 2, 1786, appointed one of the commis- 



sioners to superintend the drawing of the 
donation land lottery. Mr. Brown died on 
the 10th of October, 1787, and is buried in 
Paxtang church graveyard. He was not 
only an active, earnest and public-spirited 
Christian, of unquestioned piety of heart, 
but as a neighbor and citizen generous and 
kind-hearted, which insured respect and won 
friendship. He had no children, but to his 
paternal and loving care are we indebted 
for the education of his distinguished 
nephew, Rev. Matthew Brown, LL. D., presi- 
dent of Washington and Jefferson College. 
These were the men who a century ago 
fulfilled the trust confided to them. They 
were all Scotch-Irish Presbyterians — all save 
one born in the Paxtang of old — and all 
save one rest beneath the hallowed God's 
acre which lies within the shadow of that 
historic landmark, Paxtang church. The 
founder and his friends (for they were his 
warm personal friends) lie within the same 
enclosure. They were but human, it is true, 
yet they were men who never shrunk from 
the fulfillment of duty, and we of to-day in 
calling up their names and honoring their 
memories will do well' to follow their ex- 
ample. 

Bertram, William, was born February 
2, 1674, in the city of Edinburg, Scotland. 
He received his education in the university 
of his native place, studied for the ministry, 
and was licensed by the Presbytery of Ban- 
gor, Ireland, who gave him "ample testi- 
monials of his ordination, ministerial quali- 
fications, and regular Christian conversa- 
tion." He married, about 1706, Jane Gilles- 
pie, the widow of Angus McClain, and their 
children were, John, first, second and third, 
who died in infancy ; Phebe, died at age of 
seventeen, and Elizabeth, married James 
Galbraith. During one of those periodical 
political excitements in the British Isles, the 
son disappeared, and his parents, under the 
impression he had come to America, deter- 
mined, if possible, to ascertain his where- 
abouts, and came to Pennsylvania about the 
year 1730. Failing in their search, they de- 
cided to remain in this country, and the fol- 
lowing year we find the Rev. Mr. Bertram 
unanimously received by Donegal Presby- 
tery, which he joined. At the same time 
George Renick presented him an invitation 
to settle at Paxtang and Derry, which he 
accepted. He was installed November 17, 
1732, at the meeting-house on Swatara. The 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



169 



congregations then appointed representa- 
tives, who executed to Bertram the right and 
title to the "Indian town tract," situated in 
Hanover township, on the north side of the 
Swatara, containing three hundred and fifty 
acres. On the settlement of Rev. Bertram 
the congregation in Swatara took the name 
of Derry, and the upper congregation, on 
Spring creek, was styled Paxtang. In 1735, 
Mr. Bertram complained of the "intolerable 
burden " he was under with the two congre- 
gations, and September 13, 1736, he was re- 
leased from the care of Paxtang. The Rev. 
William Bertram died on the 2d of May, 
1746, aged seventy-two, and his remains are 
interred in Derry church graveyard, his wife 
dying prior thereto. He was a faithful min- 
ister of the gospel. It may be stated that, 
through his marriage with Miss Gillespie, 
his descendants became heirs to a handsome 
estate in Edinburg. Efforts were made to 
secure this, but the difficulties inherent upon 
proving descent, we presume, have been the 
means of keeping the rightful parties from 
enjoying this patrimony. 

Murray, John, son of John Murray, was 
born about 1691, in Scotland ; emigrated to 
the Province of Pennsylvania in 1732 in 
company with his brother and other friends. 
On the 10th of January, 1737, he obtained a 
land warrant from the proprietaries of Penn- 
sylvania, and on the " 14th of ye 9th month," 
1739, had the same located upon two hun- 
dred acres and twelve perches of land adjoin- 
ing the northwest side of "Swahatawro" 
(Swatara) creek, then in Hanover township, 
Lancaster county, Pa. Adam Read, an early 
settler and prominent in frontier times, held 
an adjoining tract on the north by improve- 
ment. On the 1st of March, 1744, John 
Murray obtained another warrant, which 
was located, about a year afterwards, east of 
the other tract, and between it and land of 
James Stewart. This latter tract is now 
within the limits of Lebanon county, the 
former, the homestead, being within the 
present bounds of Dauphin county, a short 
distance from Dixon's Ford on the Swatara. 
The date of death or name of John Murray's 
wife we have been unable to gather. 



Robinson, Philip, son of Thomas Robin- 
son, was born about the year 1698, in the 
north of Ireland, came to the Province of 
Pennsylvania with his father's family, prior 
to 1730. His name appears on the first tax 



list of Hanover township, Lancaster county. 
He settled with his family on Manada creek, 
near the Gap. During the Indian war, 1755- 
1763, there was a fort on his farm for defense 
against the Indians and the safety of the 
settlers. His sons were already grown men, 
for in 1755 Governor Morris addressed a 
letter to Samuel Robinson, sending with it 
one hundred pounds of gunpowder to be 
used by the inhabitants of Hanover in " de- 
fense of themselves and their country." Be- 
side their farm, the Robinsons were millers, 
owning a mill on the Manada at the Gap, and 
furnishing supplies to the Government dur- 
ing that war. Philip Robinson died in May, 
1770; his wife's name is unknown, and her 
death preceded her husband's. 

Read, Capt. Adam, was a native of the 
Province of Ulster, Ireland, where he was 
born in 1703. He located in Hanover on 
the Swatara about 1725, and secured the 
possession of large tracts of land. He was a 
gentleman of education and became quite 
prominent in Provincial days. He was for 
many years one of His Majesty's justices, and 
during the French and Indian wars held the 
commission of captain, doing gallant service 
on the frontiers. Considerable of his corres- 
pondence is found among the archives of the 
State, mostly relating to Indian forays and 
earnest appeals for protection. Captain Read 
was an elder in Hanover church, and in the 
old graveyard on Bow creek rest his remains. 
He died February 2, 1769; and his wife 
Mary, born in 1712", on the 11th of June, 1783. 
Their two daughters married respectively — 
Mary, John Harris, the founder of Harris- 
burg, and Eleanor, Robert Whitehill, of 
Cumberland county. 

Elder, John, son of Robert Elder, who 
came from Lough Neagh, county Antrim, 
Ireland, to Pennsylvania in 1730, was born 
January 26, 1706," in the city of Edinburg, 
Scotland; died July 17, 1792, in Paxtang 
township, Dauphin county, Pa. He received 
a classical education. and graduated from the 
University at Edinburgh. He subsequently 
studied divinity, and in 1732 was licensed 
to preach the gospel. Four or five years 
later, the son followed the footsteps of his 
parents and friends, and came to America. 
Coming as a regularly licensed minister, he 
was received by New Castle Presbytery, hav- 
ing brought credentials to that body, after- 
wards to Donegal Presbytery, on the 5th of 



170 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



October, 1737. Paxtang congregation having 
separated from that of Derry in 1735, and 
Rev. Mr. Bertram adhering to the latter, left 
that of Paxtang vacant, and the}' were 
unanimous in giving Rev. John Elder a call. 
This he accepted on the 12th day of April, 
1738, and on the 22d of November following 
he was ordained and installed, the Rev. 
Samuel Black presiding. The early years of 
Mr. Elder's ministry were not those of ease ; 
for in the second year the Whitfield excite- 
ment took a wide spread over the Presby- 
terian Church. He preached against this re- 
ligious furore, or the "great revival," as it 
was termed, and for this he was accused to 
the Presbytery of propagating "false doc- 
trine." That body cleared him, however, in 
December, 1740; "but a separation was 
made," says Webster, "and the conjunct 
Presbyters answered the supplications sent 
to them the next summer by sending Camp- 
bell and Rowland to those who forsook him. 
He signed the protest. His support being 
reduced, he took charge of the 'Old Side' 
portion of the Derry congregation." Follow- 
ing closely upon these ecclesiastical troubles 
came the French and Indian war. Associa- 
tions were formed throughout the Province 
of Pennsylvania for the defense of the fron- 
tiers, and the congregations of Mr. Elder were 
prompt to embody themselves. Their min- 
ister became their leader — their captain — ■ 
and they were trained as scouts. He super- 
intended the discipline of his men, and his 
mounted rangers became widely known as 
the " Paxtang Boys." During two summers, 
at least, every man who attended Paxtang 
church carried his rifle with him, and their 
minister took his. Subsequently, he was ad- 
vanced to the dignity of colonel by the Pro- 
vincial authorities, the date of his commis- 
sion being July 11, 1763. He had command 
of the block-houses and stockades from 
Easton to the Susquehanna. The governor, 
in tendering this appointment, expressly 
stated that nothing more would be expected 
of him than the general oversight. "His 
justification," says Webster, "lies iu the 
crisis of affairs . . . Bay at York, Steele at 
Conecocheague, and Griffith at New Castle, 
with Burton and Thompson, the church 
missionaries at Carlisle headed companies, 
and were actively engaged." During the 
latter part of the summer of 1763, many 
murders were committed m Paxtang, cul- 
minating in the destruction of the Indians 
on Conestoga Manor and at Lancaster. Al- 



though the men composing the company of 
Paxtang men who exterminated the murder- 
ous savages referred to belonged to his 
obedient and faithful rangers, it has never 
been proven that the Rev. Mr. Elder had 
previous knowledge of the plot formed, al- 
though the Quaker pamphleteers of the day 
charged him with aiding and abetting the 
destruction of the Indians. When the deed 
was done, and the Quaker authorities were 
determined to proceed to extreme lengths 
with the participants, and denounced the 
frontiersmen as " riotous and murderous Irish 
Presbyterians," he took sides with the border 
inhabitants, and sought to condone the deed. 
His letters published in connection with the 
history of that transaction prove him to have 
been a man judicious, firm and decided. 
During the controversy which ensued, he 
was the author of one of the pamphlets: 
"Letter from a Gentleman in one of the 
Back Counties to a Friend in Philadelphia." 
He was relieved from his command by the 
governor of the Province, who directed that 
Major Asher Clayton take charge of the mil- 
itary establishment. Peace, however, was 
restored — not only in civil affairs, but in the 
church. The union of the Synods brought 
theRev. John Elder into the same Presbytery 
with Messrs. John Roan, Robert Smith and 
George Dufneld, they being at first in a mi- 
nority, but rapidly settling the vacancies with 
New Side men. By the leave of Synod, the 
Rev. Mr. Elder joined the Second Philadel- 
phia Presbytery May 19, 1768, and on the 
formation of the General Assembly, became a 
member of Carlisle Presbytery. At the time 
the British army overran New Jersey, driv- 
ing before them thefragrants of our discour- 
aged, naked, and half-starved troops, and 
without any previous arrangement, the Rev. 
Mr. Elder went on Sunday as usual to Pax- 
tang church. The hour arrived for church- 
service, when, instead of a sermon, he began 
a short and hasty pra3'er to the Throne of 
Grace; then called upon the patriotism of 
all effective men present, and exhorted them 
to aid in support of liberty's cause and the 
defense of the country. In less than thirty 
minutes a company of volunteers was formed. 
Col. Robert Elder, the parson's eldest son, 
was chosen captain. They marched next 
day, though in winter. His son John, at 
sixteen years, was among the first. His son 
Joshua, sub-lieutenant of Lancaster county, 
could not quit the service he was employed 
in, but sent a substitute. Until his death, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



171 



for a period of fifty-six years, he continued 
the faithful minister of the congregations 
over which he had been placed in the prime 
of his youthful vigor, passing the age not 
generally allotted to man — that of fourscore 
and six years. His death was deeply lamented 
far and wide. Not one of all those who had 
welcomed him to his early field of labor sur- 
vived him. Charles Miner, the historian of 
Wyoming, gives this opinion of Rev. John 
Elder : " I am greatly struck with the evi- 
dences of learning, talent and spirit displayed 
by him. He was, beyond doubt, the most 
extraordinary man of Eastern Pennsylvania. 
I hope some one may draw up a full memoir 
of his life, and a narrative, well digested, of 
his times . . . He was a very extraordinary 
man, of most extensive influence, full of 
activity and enterprise, learned, pious, and a 
ready writer. I take him to have been of 
the old Cameronian blood. Had his lot been 
cast in New England he would have been a 
leader of the Puritans." He had, with one 
who well remembered the old minister, " a 
good and very handsome face. His features 
were regular— no one prominent — good com- 
plexion, with blue eyes . . . Pie was a portly, 
long, straight man, over six feet in height, 
large frame and body, with rather heavy legs 
. . . He did not talk broad Scotch, but spoke 
much as we do now, yet grammatically." 
His remains quietly repose amid the scenes 
of his earthly labors, in the burying-ground 
of old Paxtang church, by the side of those 
who loved and revered him. Over his dust 
a marble slab bears the inscription dictated 
by his friend and neighbor, William Maclay, 
first United States senator from Pennsyl- 
vania. The Rev. Mr. Elder was twice mar- 
ried ; married, first, in 1740, Mary Baker, 
born 1715, in county Antrim, Ireland ; died 
June 12, 1749, in Paxtang; daughter of 
Joshua Baker, of Lancaster, Pa. He married, 
secondly, Mary Simpson, born 1732, in Pax- 
tang; died October 3, 1786; daughter of 
Thomas and Sarah Simpson. 



Muller, John George, son of Rudolph 
Muller (more frequently written Miller), was 
born September 21, 1715, in the Canton of 
Zurich, Switzerland ; emigrated with his 
family to America in 1752, and settled in 
Lebanon township, Lancaster county, Prov- 
ince of Pennsylvania. He took the oath of 
allegiance October 23, 1752. He had been 
an officer in the Swiss service, and when the 
French and Indian war broke out he was 



commissioned a lieutenant in Col. James 
Burd's regiment of Provincial forces, May 8, 
1760 (see Penn'a Arch., 2d ser.,vol. ii., p. 605), 
promoted to a captaincy on the northern 
frontiers, October 2, 1764 (ib. p. 615). Cap- 
tain Muller died April 19, 1765, in Lebanon 
township, leaving a wife Barbara Gloninger, 
who survived her husband several years, 
dying in 1783. 

Stewart, Hugh, son of Robert Stewart, 
was born near Glasgow, Scotland, June 11, 
1719 ; died October 8, 1798 ; buried iu the 
graveyard of the old Covenanter church, 
three miles east of Harrisburg, Pa., of which 
church he was the main supporter. At the 
age of sixteen years he accompanied his 
elder brother, Samuel, and family, in their 
migration to the Province of Pennsylvania 
in 1735. He landed with a capital in coin 
equivalent to one dollar and twenty-five 
cents, and having learned the trade of weav- 
ing followed it for many years ; settled 
finally in Paxtang township, about six miles 
from Harris' Ferry, where he acquired a 
large estate, for the times. His name first 
appears on the tax list of 1750. In 1780 he 
was assessed for four hundred and five acres. 
He was considered a very handsome man, 
of more than ordinary height, and retained 
through life his Scotch accent. Hugh Stew- 
art was twice married ; married, first, in 
1750-1, Hannah Dallas, born 1727, in Ire- 
land ; died 1760, and buried with her hus- 
band. He married, secondly, in 1764, Nancy 
Moore, born 1735 ; died March 22, 1790. 



Ayres, William, son of Samuel Ayres 
and his wife Margaret Richmond, who came 
to Philadelphia with his family in 1745, was 
born in 1720 in the county of Antrim, Ire- 
land, came to the Province of Pennsylvania 
previous to 1745, in advance of his father's 
family, and settled in the country contiguous 
to the Pennepack, then Philadelphia county, 
Pa. In the year 1773 William Ayres with 
all his family, excepting Samuel and Charles, 
who remained in the old locality, moved to 
the west, then in Paxtang township, Lancas- 
ter county, now Middle Paxtang, Dauphin 
county, Pa., and purchased land on the east 
side of Peter's mountain, where the turnpike 
crosses, three miles above Dauphin. The 
common road terminated at that point, and 
when supervisor of roads, in 1781, he con- 
structed the first road across the mountain. 
In the map of purchase from the Indians, 



172 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENGYGL OPEDIA 



only twenty-four years previously (1749), the 
country west of the mountain is entitled 
" Saint Anthony's wilderness." He was sev- 
eral times elected to township offices. Al- 
though nearly sixty years old, we find him 
doing Revolutionary service in Capt. Richard 
Manning's company of the Fourth battalion 
of Lancaster county, Col. James Burd, March 
13, 1776. In the winter of 1784-5 he was acci- 
dentally drowned in Fishing creek, near old 
Fort Hunter, his wife having died previ- 
ously, and both were buried in the old grave- 
yard above Dauphin, where sleep all the 
oldest residents of that section of the county. 
William Ayres married Mary Kean, daugh- 
ter of Charles Kean, of the same locality. 

Haldeman, Jacob M. — Honeste Gaspard 
Haldimand (Caspar Haldeman), of Thun, 
Switzerland, became a citizen of Yverdun, 
Canton de Vaud, in 1671. His grandson, 
Jacob, born October 7, 1722, in the Canton of 
Neufchatel,died December 31, 1784, in Rapho 
township, Lancaster county, Pa., where he 
settled on first coming to this country, and 
purchased a considerable tract of land. He 
was a member of the Committee of Safety 
for his adopted shire on the breaking out of 
the war of the Revolution. 

Jacob Haldeman's near relative was the 
noted British general, Sir Frederick Haldi- 
mand, K. B., who served with distinction in 
the armies of Sardinia and Prussia, entered 
the military service of King George II. in 
1754, was appointed lieutenant colonel of the 
Sixtieth regiment, Royal Americans, 1756. 
In 1776 he was commissioned a general in 
America, and subsequently commander-in- 
chief of His Majesty's forces as governor of 
the Province of Quebec, where he received 
the honor of knighthood, May 19, 1778. A 
tablet has been erected to the memory of 
General Haldimand in Westminster Abbey, 
in the chapel of Henry VII. A niece of Sir 
Frederick was Jane Haldimand, Mrs. Dr. 
Alexander Marcet, a distinguished woman, 
and the first writer to attempt to popularize 
science by the publication of her " Conversa- 
tion on Chemistry, Natural Philosophy, Bot- 
any, Mineralogy, Language, and Political 
Economy." Of this last work Macaulay said, 
" Every girl who has read Mrs. Marcet's little 
dialogues on political economy could teach 
Montague or Walpole many lessons in 
finance," and Faraday gleaned his first 
knowledge of science from the book which 
heads the list. 



Jacob Haldeman's son John (1753-1832) 
settled at Locust Grove, Lancaster county, 
Pa. John's fourth son, Henry Haldeman, 
was the father of the distinguished Samuel 
Stehman Haldeman, LL. D., professor of 
comparative philology in the University of 
Pennsylvania. 

John Haldeman was an enterprising and 
influential citizen. He was a large land- 
owner and engaged largely in business pur- 
suits, in partnership with Robert Ralston, of 
Philadelphia, in the China trade, and be was 
a member of the Bingham Court and first 
General Assembly of Pennsylvania. He re- 
sided at Locust Grove until late in life, when 
he removed to Columbia, in the same count}', 
where both himself and wife died. 

Jacob M. Haldeman, second son of John 
and Mary (Breneman) Haldeman, obtained 
a good English and German education un- 
der the private instruction of an English 
officer, and seemingly inherited practical 
ideas from his father. At the age of nine- 
teen he was sent on horseback by his father 
to Pittsburgh, making his journey through 
many Indian settlements, to purchase flour 
to send down the river in flat-boats to New 
Orleans. 

About 1806, assisted by his father, he pur- 
chased the waterpower and forge at the 
mouth of Yellow Breeches creek and estab- 
lished himself in the iron business. He 
added a rolling and slitting mill, and by his 
energy and industry soon became one of the 
foremost iron manufacturers in the State. 
His superior iron found steady market, and 
upon the establishment of the arsenal at 
Harper's Ferry he supplied the Government 
with iron, especially during the war of 
1812-14, which he forwarded across the South 
mountain on muleback to the Ferry, where 
it was manufactured into guns, man} 7 of 
which may be seen to-day, stamped 1812. 
At that time he founded Haldemanstown, 
now called New Cumberland, at the junction 
of the creek and river, and it may be here 
remarked that it had been one of the points 
in question in the Congress at New York as 
the proposed site of the national capital, and 
he also built a saw mill and gristmill at the 
same place. 

Following the war of 1812, during the de- 
pression, he invested largely in farms and 
real estate, and engaged in the management 
of the same, a business so varied and so 
large as to require his constant attention, 
and he managed it all without the aid of an 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



173 



assistant or clerk. In 1830 he removed to 
Harrisburg and purchased a residence built 
by Stephen A. Hills, architect of the capital 
building, on Front street, on the bank of 
the Susquehanna, where he continued to re- 
side until his death. His connection with 
the Harrisburg Bank and the Harrisburg 
Bridge Company as president, with the Har- 
risburg Car Company as one of its founders, 
and a director with the Dauphin Deposit 
Bank, as one of its founders, made his 
name familiar in business and financial 
circles during his residence here, and made 
him known to the community as a man of 
sterling integrity, discretion and superior 
business ability. He was never solicitous 
of public place or the emoluments of office, 
and led a strictly business life. As a citi- 
zen, he was independent in his political 
views, was an attendant of the Presbyterian 
Church, and a contributor to all worthy local 
enterprises. 

His wife, Eliza E., daughter of Samuel 
Jacobs and Sarah Templin, and grand- 
daughter of Richard Jacobs, of Wales, was 
born June 13, 1789, at Mount Hope Fur- 
nace, Lancaster county, Pa. Mrs. Haldeman 
is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 
Their children are Sara Jacobs, widow of 
the late William W. Haly, of Cork, Ireland, 
a distinguished lawyer of Philadelphia, and 
author of " Troubat & Haly's Practice," re- 
sided at the homestead in Harrisburg. Mary 
Ewing was the wife of Robert J. Ross, a 
banker of Harrisburg, and died in 1873. 
Caroline Jacobs, Elizabeth Templin and 
Anne died young. John, born September 
19, 1821, died in Denver, Col., July 13, 1865. 
Jacob S., born October 13, 1823, for many 
years president of the State Agricultural So- 
ciety, ex-member of the State Legislature, 
and ex-Minister to Sweden, resided in Har- 
risburg. Susan Frances, wife of Dr. Morti- 
mer O'Connor, a graduate of the Dublin 
schools of medicine, and formerly a surgeon 
in the British service, and Richard Jacobs 
Haldeman, born May 19, 1831, educated at 
Yale, Heidelberg, Germany, and Berlin, was 
editor and proprietor of the Harrisburg Pa- 
triot for several years, and the founder of 
the Harrisburg Daily Patriot, and member of 
Congress for two terms. 



grated to Pennsylvania prior to 1740. His 
father was the twelfth in descent from Ulric 
Egle, or Egli, who was a citizen of Zurich 
in 1386, coming down in direct line to Mar- 
cus Egle, the emigrant. Casper Egle was 
brought up on his father's farm, a wine- 
grower; received a good education, and with 
the other members of his family, came to 
America prior to 1740. His father, as before 
stated, located in Cocalico township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa., but the son settled in Al- 
sace township, Berks county. He was nat- 
uralized in October, 1762, as appears by the 
Pennsylvania Archives. In 1770, he was en- 
gaged in merchandizing at Reading, while 
in 1774 he established a brewery at Lancas- 
ter. He took the oath of allegiance August 
24, 1777, served as a private in Capt. John 
Hubley's company, and j)erformed several 
tours in the militia during the struggle for 
independence. He remained at Lancaster 
until 1794, when he and his wife removed 
to Harrisburg, Pa., where they both died at 
the residence of his son Valentine. Casper 
Egle was twice married. His first wife was 
Elizabeth Mentges, born about 1730; died 
January 3, 1/60 ; the daughter of Francis 
Mentges, Sr., a Swiss-Huguenot. His second 
wife was Catharine Binding, b. 1738 ; d. 
1811, at Harrisburg, Pa. There were chil- 
dren bv both marriages. 



Egle, Casper, born October 16, 1725, in 
the city of Zurich, Switzerland ; died Septem- 
ber 3, 1S04, in Harrisburg, Pa. He was the 
son of Marcus and Elizabeth Egle, who emi- 



Burd, James, a Scot, was born at Ormis- 
ton, near Edinburgh, in 1726, son of Edward. 
He came to Philadelphia in 1747 ; married, 
1748, Sarah, daughter of Edward Shippen, 
born 1730. Both died at Tinian, near Mid- 
dletown, in Dauphin county, Pa. (Colonel 
Burd in 1793, Mrs. Burd in 1784), and are 
buried in the graveyard at Middletown. 
Colonel Burd resided from 1750 to 1753 at 
Shippensburg, as manager of the affairs of 
Mr. Shippen. About 1755 he came to Tin- 
ian, where he resided until his death. He 
entered the Provincial service (1755) as a 
commissioner with George Croghan, Will- 
iam Buchanan and Adam Hoopes to lay 
out a road from " Harris' Feny to the 
Ohio." He was then a captain ; he is 
soon heard of as major, then lieutenant 
colonel, and colonel in 1760. As there were 
but two regiments in service, his rank was a 
very prominent one. He fulfilled with great 
uprightness and punctuality all the public 
duties with which lie was intrusted for quite 
twenty years. Then the stirring days of the 
Revolution came, and with it disaster to 



174 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



Burd as a public man. He seemed to have 
entered heartily into the contest, but just 
when such experience as he had acquired 
would have been of the highest benefit, an 
unfortunate dispute about rank occurred ; 
that, with insubordination in his command, 
and some criticism in the Committee of 
Safety, caused him to resign his civil and 
military employments. His sons and son- 
in-law were good patriots, and a pretty thor- 
ough examination of the hasty conduct of 
Burd convinces us that he was, notwith- 
standing this affair, in accord with the lead- 
ing patriots with whom he was surrounded. 
He was a man of fine form, hardy and 
healthy, an advanced and prosperous farmer, 
hospitable in his intercourse with his neigh- 
bors, and respected for his integrity as a 
civil officer from 1785, when Dauphin county 
was formed, until his death, in 1793. He 
died holding position as one of the county 
judges. 



Awl, Jacob, was born August 6, 1727, in 
the north of Ireland ; and died September 
26, 1793, in Paxtang township, Dauphin 
county, Pa. The name should properly be 
spelled Auld, and the first settler wrote it 
Aul, which the descendants have changed 
into Awl. He learned the trade of a tanner; 
was a man of means when he came to 
America, and settled, at an early date, in 
Paxtang, near his relative, John Harris, of 
Harris' Ferry, where he took up a large tract 
of land, which he improved, erected a tan- 
nery, and on which he lived to the time of 
his death. He became a prominent person- 
age in Paxtang, was an ensign and lieuten- 
ant in Col. John Elder's battalion of 
rangers in the frontier wars from 1756 to 
1764, and at the outset of the war for inde- 
pendence, aided, by his counsel and his 
purse, in organizing the associated bat- 
talions of Lancaster county, which did 
such effective service in the Revolution. 
When the new county of Dauphin was 
erected, Mr. Awl was appointed one of the 
commissioners in the act relating thereto, 
and John Harris afterwards appointed him 
one of the trustees or commissioners for the 
public grounds ceded by him, at the laying 
out of the town of Harrisburg, for public 
uses. He was a representative man, influ- 
ential and potential in the county, yet pre- 
ferred domestic retirement to the struggle 
for office, and when he was offered the nom- 
ination for representative in the General 



Assembly, he positively declined. Jacob 
Awl married, July 26, 1759, by Rev. John 
Elder, Sarah Sturgeon, born September 1, 
1739 ; died June, 1809, in Paxtang, and with 
her husband there buried. She was the 
daughter of Jeremiah Sturgeon, one of the 
first settlers. 



Crouch, James, was born about 1728, in 
Virginia. The Crouches were an old family, 
who emigrated at an early day from Eng- 
land and settled in King and Queen county, 
near the court house. James Crouch re- 
ceived a- good education, came to Pennsyl- 
vania prior to 1757, purchasing about three 
thousand acres of land in York county, 
where the town of Wrightsville now stands, 
on which he settled for a few years, but 
which he subsequently sold and removed to 
then Paxtang township, Lancaster count}', 
Pa., where he bought one thousand acres of 
land. He was a soldier of Quebec, being a 
sergeant of Capt. Matthew Smith's company 
of Paxtang volunteers. On his release from 
captivity he became an officer of the associa- 
tors, and subsequently paymaster of the bat- 
talion. He served during the whole of the 
Revolutionaiy war with honor and distinc- 
tion. He died at his residence, Walnut Hill, 
near Highspire, Pa., on the 24th of May, 
1794, aged 66 years. Colonel Crouch mar- 
ried, September 22, 1757, Hannah Brown, 
born 1727; died May 24, 1787. Their chil- 
dren were: Edward, Mary, married Col. 
James Cowden, Elizabeth, married Matthew 
Gilchrist, removed to Washington county, 
Pa., and Hannah, married Roan McClure. 



Murray, James, son of William Murray, 
was born about 1729, in Scotland ; died Feb- 
ruary 15, 1804, on bis farm adjoining the 
borough of Dauphin, Dauphin county, Pa. 
For this farm he entered an application in 
the Land Office in 1768 In 1775 he was 
chosen to represent Upper Paxtang township 
in the Committee of Safety for Lancaster 
county and attended the meetings of the 
committee in Lancaster on the 8th, 9th and 
10th of November. At this time he was a 
captain of a " company of foot in the Fourth 
battalion of associators in the county of Lan- 
caster." On the fourth of July, 1776, at a 
militar} 7 convention representing the fifty- 
three battalions of associators of Pennsylva- 
nia, he was present as captain. With John 
Rogers and John Harris, on the 8th of July, 
1776, by appointment of the Provincial Con- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



175 



ference, he superintended the election at Gar- 
ber's Mill for the Sixth district of Lancaster 
county, to choose delegates to the convention 
that assembled on the 15th of the month, 
and which framed the first Constitution of 
the Commonwealth. During the remainder 
of that and the following year he was almost 
in constant active military service with his 
compnay. His company, a roll of which ap- 
pears in Dr. Egle's Notes and Queries, First 
Series, p. 7, and in Pennsylvania Archives, 
Second Series, vol. xiii., p. 310, went into the 
Continental service in July or early in Au- 
gust, 1776. In a return of the troops quar- 
tered in and near Philadelphia, made Au- 
gust 27, of that year, it is reported sixty strong. 
It participated in the battles of Trenton and 
Princeton. He commanded one of the com- 
panies of the Tenth battalion, Lancaster 
county militia and was with the expedition 
up the WestBranch in 1779. The exposures 
to which Captain Murray was subjected dur- 
ing the Revolutionary struggle brought on an 
attack of rheumatism, from which for many 
years prior to his death he was a constant 
sufferer. He married Rebecca McLean, a 
native of Scotland, who died August 7, 1795. 
The remains of both rest, side by side, in the 
old Dauphin cemetery. 

Whitley, Capt. Michael, was born in 
1730, in the north of Ireland. He came to 
America when a young man, and settled in 
what was then Paxtang township, Lancaster 
county. He was a farmer by occupation 
and was in good circumstances when the 
war of the Revolution aroused the war- 
eagles on the Susquehanna. He raised a 
company of associatois for Col. Robert El- 
der's battalion, and was in active service in 
the Jersey campaign of 1776, and the battles 
of Brandywine and Germantown. On the 
6th of December, 1777, he was severely 
wounded in a skirmish at Chestnut Hill, 
taken prisoner, and died a few days there- 
after at Philadelphia. Captain Whitley was 
a brave and gallant officer, and the com- 
mendations of his superior officers show how 
highly he was esteemed. He left a wife 
Martha, who died in Paxtang, November 
11, 1813, aged about ninety years. 



tumn of 1734, and located in Paxtang town- 
ship, Lancaster, now Dauphin couuty. He 
was a man of means, was well educated, rnd 
became quite prominent in the Scotch-Irish 
settlement. The son was about 4 years old 
when his parents came to America! He se- 
cured a fair English education and was 
brought up to the life of a frontiersman, that 
of a farmer. During the French and Indian 
war he served as a non-commissioned officer, 
and was in active service as a scout or ranger 
on the frontiers. When the thunders of the 
Revolution reverberated along the valley of 
the Susquehanna, with all his Scotch-Irish 
.and German neighbors, he entered into the 
contest for liberty. In 1775 and 1776 he 
was in command of one of the companies of 
Col. James Burd's battalion of associators, a 
roll of which is to be found in the recent 
history of Dauphin county. Colonel Burd's 
farm at Tinian joined the Sherer homestead, 
and the two patriots were intimate friends. 
Captain Sherer was a member of the Com- 
mittee of Observation for the county of Lan- 
caster, and was chosen by the vote of the 
people a member of the first Constitutional 
Convention of the State of Pennsylvania, 
which met at Philadelphia on the 15th of 
July, 1776. While in attendance on this 
representative body of the Revolutionary 
era he took ill, returned home, and died on 
the 1st or 2d of December following. His 
remains were interred in the burial ground 
of old Paxtang church, of which he was a 
consistent member. Captain Sherer mar- 
ried, first, February 6, 1759, Mary McClure ; 
subsequently married Mary McCracken, of 
Northumberland countv, Pa. 



Sherer, Joseph, was born in 1730 in Ire- 
laud. His father, Samuel Sherer, was among 
the earliest of the Scotch-Irish emigrants. 
He came from near Londonderry, Ireland, 
to the Province of Pennsylvania in the au- 



Murray, John, son of William Murray, 
was born about 1731, in Scotland ; died Feb- 
ruary 3, 1798, in Dauphin county, Pa. In 
1766 he took up a tract of land called the 
"Indian Burying Ground," lying on the 
Susquehanna, immediately above his brother 
James' farm, which adjoined the present town 
of Dauphin. He commanded a rifle com- 
pany, which in March, 1776, was attached to 
Col. Samuel Miles' battalion, and participated 
in the battles of Long Island, White Plains, 
Trenton and Princeton. He was promoted 
to major April 18, 1777, and lieutenant 
colonel of the Second Pennsylvania regiment 
in 1780, serving until the disbanding of the 
army in 1783. He then returned to his 
family and farm. Governor Mifflin ap- 
pointed him a justice of the peace August 



176 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



29, 1791, the only political office he ever 
held. He was an ardent Whig of the Revo- 
lution, and a brave officer. Colonel Murray 
married, December 29, 1762, by Rev. John 
Elder, Margaret Mayes, born 1733, in the 
north of Ireland ; died June 22, 1807, in 
Upper Paxtang township, Dauphin county, 
Pa.; buried by the side of her husband in 
the old cemetery near Dauphin borough ; 
daughter of Andrew and Rebecca Mayes. 

Montgomery, Joseph, son of John and 
Martha Montgomery, emigrants from Ire- 
land, was born September 23, 1733 (0. S.), 
in Paxtang township, then Lancaster, now t 
Dauphin county, Pa. He was educated at 
the College of New Jersey, from which he 
graduated in 1755, and was afterwards ap- 
pointed master of the grammar school con- 
nected with the college. In 1760 the Col- 
lege of Philadelphia and Yale College con- 
ferred upon him the Master's degree. About 
this time he was licensed to preach by the 
Presbytery of Philadelphia, and soon after, 
by request, entered the bounds of the Pres- 
bytery of Lewes, from which he was trans- 
ferred to that of New Castle, accepting a call 
from the congregations at Georgetown, over 
which he was settled from 1767 to 1769. 
He was installed pastor of the congregations 
at Christiana Bridge and New Castle, Del., 
on the 16th of August, 1769, remaining 
there until the autumn of 1777, when he re- 
signed, having been commissioned chaplain 
of Colonel Smallwood's (Maryland) regiment 
of the Continental Line. During the war 
his home was with his relatives in Paxtang. 
On the 23d of November, 1780, he was 
chosen by the General Assembly of Penn- 
sylvania one of its delegates in Congress, and 
re-elected the following year. He was elected 
a member of the Assembly of the State in 
1782, serving during that session. He was 
chosen by that body, February 25, 1783, one 
of the commissioners to settle the difficulty 
between the State and the Connecticut set- 
tlers at Wyoming. When the new county 
of Dauphin was erected the Supreme Execu- 
tive Council appointed him recorder of deeds 
and register of wills for the county, which 
office he held from March 11, 1785, to Oc- 
tober 14, 1794, the date of his death. " Mr. 
Montgomery filled conspicuous and honora- 
ble positions in church and State in the most 
trying period of the early history of the 
country. In the church he was the friend 



and associate of men like Witherspoon, Rog- 
ers and Spencer, and his bold utterances in 
the cause of independence stamp him as a 
man of no ordinary courage and decision. 
. . . He enjoyed to an unusual degree the 
respect and confidence of the men of his 
generation." The Rev. Mr. Montgomery 
was twice married ; married, first, in 1765, 
Elizabeth Reed, died March, 1769, daughter 
of Andrew and Sarah Reed, of Trenton, N. 
J. Mr. Montgomery married, secondly, July 
11, 1770, Rachel (Rush) Boyce, born 1741, in 
Byberry ; d. July 28, 1798, in Harrisburg, 
Pa.; widow of Angus Boyce, and daughter 
of Thomas and Rachel Rush. 



Kelker, Anthony, son of Henry Kelker 
and Regula Braetscher, was a native of 
Herrleberg, near Zurich, Switzerland, born 
on December 30, 1733. At the age of ten 
years, in 1743, his parents emigrated to 
America and located in Lebanon township, 
Lancaster county, now Lebanon county, Pa., 
four miles north of the town of Lebanon. 
Anthony was brought up on his father's 
farm, receiving the meager advantages of the 
schools of that period. He was commis- 
sioned August 28, 1775, lieutenant in the 
Second battalion of Lancaster county as- 
sociators, and was in active service during 
the campaign of 1776. In 1777 he was an 
officer in the militia at Brandywine and 
Germantown. He was appointed January 
19, 1778, wagon-master of Colonel Greena- 
walt's battalion, and the same year was sent 
on a secret expedition to Virginia and Mary- 
land. Until the close of the war Captain 
Kelker was an active participant. He was 
deputy sheriff of Lancaster county in 1781- 
82, and upon the formation of the county of 
Dauphin was commissioned the first sheriff 
in 1785, and subsequently elected, serving 
until 1788. He was a member of the Penn- 
sylvania House of Representatives 1793-94. 
He was a very active member and vestryman 
of the German Reformed church, and treas- 
urer of the same during the erection of the 
old (First) Reformed church in 1794. Mr. 
Kelker died at Lebanon March 10, 1812. 
He married Mary Magdalene, daughter of 
George Meister, a Moravian. She died at 
Lebanon, December 30, 1818. Mr. Kelker 
was a man of strict integrity, an unflinch- 
ing patriot, and highly esteemed by his fel- 
low-citizens. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



177 



Green, Timothy, son of Robert Green, 
was born about 1733, on the "Monoday," 
Hanover township, Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county, Pa.; died February 27, 1812, at Dau- 
phin, Pa., and is buried in the old graveyard 
there. His father, of Scotch ancestry, came 
from the north of Ireland about 1725, locat- 
ing near the Kittochtinny mountains on 
Manada creek. The first record we have of 
the son is subsequent to Braddock's defeat, 
when the frontier settlers were threatened 
with extermination by the marauding sav- 
ages. Timothy Green assisted in organizing 
a company, and for at least seven years was 
chiefly in active service in protecting the 
settlers from the fury of the blood-thirsty 
Indians. In the Bouquet expedition he 
commanded a company of Provincial troops. 
For his services at this time, the Proprieta- 
ries granted him large tracts of land in Buf- 
falo Valley and on Bald Eagle creek. At 
the outset of the Revolution, Captain Green 
became an earnest advocate for independ- 
ence, and the Hanover resolutions of June 
4, 1774, passed unanimously by the meeting 
of which he was chairman, show that he was 
intensely patriotic. He was one of the Com- 
mittee of Safety of the Province, which met 
November 22, 1774, in Lancaster, and issued 
hand-bills to the import that "agreeable to 
the resolves and recommendations of the 
American Continental Congress, that the 
freeholders and others qualified to vote for 
representatives in Assembly choose, by bal- 
lot, sixt}' persons for a Committee of Obser- 
vation, to observe the conduct of all persons 
toward the actions of the General Congress; 
the committee, when elected, to divide the 
country into districts and appoint members 
of the committee to superintend each dis- 
trict, and any six so appointed to be a quo- 
rum, etc." Election was held on Thursday, 
15th December, 1774, and, among others, 
Timothy Green was elected from Hanover. 
This body of men were in correspondence 
with Joseph Reed, Charles Thompson, George 
Clymer, John Benezet, Samuel Meredith, 
Thomas Mifflin, etc., of Philadelphia, and 
others. They met at Lancaster again, April 
27, 1775, when notice was taken of General 
Gage's attack upon the inhabitants of Mas- 
sachusetts Bay, and a general meeting called 
for the 1st of May, at Lancaster. Upon the 
erection of the county of Dauphin, Colonel 
Green was the oldest justice of the peace in 
commission, and, under the Constitution of 
1776, he was presiding justice of the courts. 



He continued therein until, under the Consti- 
tution of 1790, which required the presiding 
judge " to be learned in the law," Judge Atlee 
was appointed. After his retirement, Judge 
Green returned to his quiet farm at the 
mouth of Stony creek, where he had erected 
a mill and other improvements. He was 
thrice married ; married, first, in 1760, Effy 
Finney Robinson, daughter of James and 
Jean Finney, and widow of Thomas Robin- 
son. She died December 28, 1765, and is 
buried in old Hanover church graveyard. 

Rutherford, Capt. John, son of Thomas 
Rutherford, the pioneer, was born February 
16, 1737, in Donegal, Lancaster county, Pa. 
He accompanied his father to Paxtang in 
1755. In the year 1760, in connection with 
the latter, he purchased the plantation, con- 
taining nearly four hundred acres, on which 
Rutherford station, on the Philadelphia & 
Reading railroad, is now (1895) located. This 
property, although divided into three tracts, 
is still owned by the descendants; and his 
mansion house, built before the Revolution, 
is used as a dwelling by his great-grandchil- 
dren. When the troubles with England 
arose, which led to the struggle for independ- 
ence, he was active in his opposition to British 
tyranny. He was a member and officer, . 
throughout the war, of the " Liberty Associa- 
tion of Pennsylvania," and served as captain 
of a company in the campaigns of 1776 and 
1777 in. the Jerseys and Eastern Pennsylva- 
nia. He afterwards commanded a detach- 
ment from several companies against the In- 
dians. Throughout his life we find Mr. 
Rutherford's name connected with many en- 
terprises, both civil and ecclesiastical, which 
show him to have been a representative man 
and trusted citizen. He died at his home in 
Paxtang October 2, 1804 Captain Ruther- 
ford married, February 4, 1762, Margaret 
Parke, born 1737 ; died January 18, 1810. 

Thomas, Martin, son of Martin Thomas 
and grandson of Durst Thomas, an early 
emigrant to Pennsylvania, was born March 
15, 1737, in Heidelberg township, then Lan- 
caster county, Pa., and died July 15, 1802, 
in East Pennsboro' township, Cumberland 
county, Pa. He served, as a private, in the 
French and Indian war in his father's com- 
pany, and prior to the Revolution established 
a furnace in the neighborhood of Shamukin, 
Northumberland county, Pa. He served in 
the struggle for independence as sergeant of 



178 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Capt. John Simpson's company, First bat- 
talion, Northumberland county associators, 
March 25, 1776, and subsequently sergeant 
in Third regiment, Pennsylvania Line. 
During the " Great Runaway " of 1778, his 
family fled from the locality, and settled on 
the Yellow Breeches, in Cumberland county, 
where he built a stone mill, yet standing, 
and where he remained until his death. He 
disposed of his Northumberland county 
property, receiving a large sum in Conti- 
nental currency th«refor, which, before he 
had the opportunity to re-invest, became 
worthless. He was one of the founders of 
Friedens Kirche, near the present Shire- 
manstown. He married, in 1767, Ursula 
Muller, born 1740, in Lebanon township, 
now Lebanon county, Pa. ; died 1807, in 
East Pennsboro' township, Cumberland 
county, Pa.; daughter of John and Barbara 
Muller. 



Cowden, James, son of Matthew Cowden, 
was born June 16, 1737, in Paxtang town- 
ship, Lancaster, now Dauphin, county, Pa.; 
died October 10, 1810, in Paxtang. He was 
brought up on his father's farm, enjoying, 
however, the advantages of that early educa- 
tion of those pioneer times, which, among 
the Scotch-Irish settlers, was remarkably 
comprehensive and ample. Apart from this, 
he was well-grounded in the tenets of the 
Westminster Confession, which among our 
pious ancestry formed a part of the instruc- 
tion given to all. Until the thunders of the 
Revolution rolled toward the Susquehanna, 
Mr. Cowden remained on the paternal acres, 
busily engaged in farming. At the outset, 
he was a strong advocate for active defensive 
measures, and in favor of independence. He 
was one of the leading spirits at the meeting 
at Middletown, June 9, 1774. of which Col. 
James Burd was chairman, and whose action, 
in conjunction with those of Hanover, nerved 
the people of Lancaster in their patriotic re- 
solves. Suiting the action to the word, Mr. 
Cowden and the young men of his neighbor- 
hood took measures toward raising a battalion 
( f associators, of which Col. James Burd was 
in command, and a company of which was 
intrusted to Captain Cowden. His company, 
although not belonging to the Pennsylvania 
Line, was, nevertheless, in several cam- 
paigns, and did faithful service at Fort 
Washington, in the Jerseys, at Brandywine, 
and Germantown, and in the war on the 
northern and western frontiers, defending 



them from the attack of the savage Indian 
and treacherous Tory. At the close of the 
war Captain Cowden returned to his farm. 
Under the Constitution of 1790, he was ap- 
pointed the justice of the peace for the dis- 
trict of Lower Paxtang, April 10, 1793, which 
he held up to the time he was commissioned 
by Governor Thomas Mifflin one of the 
associate judges of the county of Dauphin, 
October 2, 1795, an office he filled acceptably 
and creditably. In 1809 he was chosen 
presidential elector, and was an ardent sup- 
porter of Madison. Judge Cowden married, 
March 20, 1777, by Rev. John Elder, Mary 
Crouch, b. 1757, in Virginia ; died October 
14, 184S, in Paxtang township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., and buried in Paxtang church 
graveyard ; daughter of James and Hannah 
Crouch. 



Maclay, William, son of Charles Maclay, 
was born July 20,1737, in New Garden town- 
ship, Chester county, Pa.; died Monday, 
April 16, 1804, at Harrisburg, Pa.; buried in 
Paxtang church graveyard. In 1742 his 
father removed to now Lurgan township, 
Franklin county, where his boyhood days 
were spent upon the paternal farm. When 
the French and Indian war broke out he 
was at Rev. John Blair's classical school, in 
Chester county, and, desiring to enter the ser- 
vice of the Province, his tutor gave him a 
recommendation "as a judicious young man 
and a scholar," which secured him the ap- 
pointment of ensign in the Pennsylvania 
battalion ; he was promoted lieutenant in the 
Third battalion, Lieut. Col. Hugh Mercer, 
May 7, 1758. Accompanied General Forbes' 
expedition that year, and especially distin- 
guished himself at the battle of Loyalhanna. 
In Bouquet's expedition of 1763, he was in 
the fight of Bushy Run ; while in the sub- 
sequent campaign of that gallant officer, he 
was stationed, with the great portion of the 
Second Pennsylvania, on the line of the 
stockade forts on the route to Fort Pitt as 
lieutenant commanding the company. For 
these services he participated in the Provin- 
cial grant of land to the officers connected 
therewith, located on the West Branch of the 
Susquehanna, and most of which he assisted 
in surveying. He studied law and was ad- 
mitted to the York county bar, April 28, 
1760, but it is doubtful if he ever practiced 
his profession at that court, the continued 
Indian war, and his subsequent duties as 
surveyor, engrossing his entire time, although, 




/y.*z.dL 





^^^^^Qi^Z^ X^IS^^S**^ — 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



181 



from a letter of John Perm's, it would seem 
that he was afterwards admitted to the Cum- 
berland county bar, and had acted for the 
prothonotary of that county. At the close of 
the French and Indian war he visited Eng- 
land and had an interview with Thomas 
Penn, one of the Proprietaries, relative to the 
surveys in the middle and northern parts of 
the Province, and was the assistant of Sur- 
veyor Lukens on the frontiers. In 1772 he 
laid out the town of Sunbury and erected for 
himself a stone house, which was standing 
a few years since. Upon the organization of 
the county of Northumberland he was ap- 
pointed prothonotaiw and clerk of the courts. 
He also acted as the representative of the 
Penn family, and took a prominent part in 
the so-called Pennamite war. In writing to 
the secretary of the Province, in April, 1773, 
he says, "If hell is justly considered as the 
rendezvous of rascals, we cannot entertain a 
doubt of Wioming being the place;" but, 
much as he was prejudiced against the Con- 
necticut settlers, lie foresaw the future value 
of the land in that valley, and advised Penn 
not to sell his reservation there. At the out- 
set of the Revolution, although an officer of 
the Proprietary government, William Ma- 
clay took a prominent and active part in favor 
of independence, not only assisting in equip- 
ping and forwarding toops to the Continen- 
tal army, but marched with the associators, 
participating in the battles of Trenton and 
Princeton. During the Revolution he held 
the position of assistant commissary of pur- 
chases. In 1781 he was elected to the Assem- 
bly, and from that time forward he filled the 
various offices of the Supreme Executive 
Council, judge of the Courts of Common 
Pleas, deputy surveyor, and one of the com- 
missioners for carrying into effect the act re- 
specting the navigation of the Susquehanna 
river. About this period he visited England 
in the interest of the Penn family. In Janu- 
ary, 1789, he was elected to the United States 
Senate, taking his seat there as the first sena- 
tor from Pennsylvania. He drew the short 
term, and his position terminated March 3, 
1791, his colleague, Robert Morris, securing 
the long term. His election to this body 
raised him upon a higher plane of political 
activity, but contact with the Federal chiefs 
of the Senate only strengthened his political 
convictions, which, formed by long inter- 
course with the people of Middle Pennsylva- 
nia, were intensely democratic. He began 
to differ with the opinions of President 
16 



Washington very early in the session; he 
did not approve of the state and ceremony 
attendant upon the intercourse of the Presi- 
dent with Congress — he flatly objected to the 
presence of the President in the Senate while 
business was being transacted, and in the 
Senate boldly spoke against his policy in the 
immediate presence of President Washing- 
ton. The New England historians, Hildreth 
and Goodrich, repute Thomas Jefferson as 
the "efficient promoter at the beginning and 
founder of the Democratic party." Contempo- 
rary records, ho we ver,show beyond the shadow 
of a doubt that this responsibility or honor, in 
whatever light it may be regarded, cannot 
be shifted from the shoulders or taken from 
the laurels of Pennsylvania statesmanship. 
Before Mr. Jefferson's return from Europe, 
William Maclay assumed an independent 
position, and in his short career of two years 
in the Senate propounded ideas and gath- 
ered about him elements to form the oppo- 
sition which developed with the meeting of 
Congress at Philadelphia, on the 21th of Oc- 
tober, 1791, in a division of the people into 
two great parties, the Federalists and Demo- 
crats, when, for the first time, appeared an 
open and organized opposition to the admin- 
istration. The funding of the public debt, 
chartering the United States Bank, and 
other measures championed necessarily by 
the administration, whose duty it was to put 
the wheels of government in motion, engen- 
dered opjosition. Mr. Maclay, to use his 
own language, " no one else presenting him- 
self," fearlessly took the initiative, and with 
his blunt common sense (for he was not 
much of a speaker) and Democratic ideas, 
took issue with the ablest advocate of the 
administration. Notwithstanding the pres- 
tige of General Washington, and the ability 
of the defenders of the administration 
on the floor of the Senate, such was the 
tact and resolution of Mr. Maclay, that 
when, after his short service, he was retired 
from the Senate and succeeded by James 
Ross, a pronounced Federalist, their impress 
was left in the distinctive lines of an oppo- 
sition party, a party which, taking advantage 
of the warm feeling of our people toward 
the French upon the occasion of Jay's treaty 
with Great Britain, in 1794, and of the un- 
popularity of the alien and sedition laws, 
passed under the administration of President 
John Adams, in 1798, compassed the final 
overthrow of the Federal party in 1S00. 
While in the Senate, Mr. Maclay preserved 



182 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



notes of its discussions, both in open and 
secret sessions, with observations upon the 
social customs of the first statesmen of the 

. Republic, which have been published and 
edited by George Washington Harris. Upon 
his retirement, he resided permanently on 
his farm adjoining Harrisburg, where he 
erected the stone mansion for many years 
occupied by the Harrisburg Academy. In 
the year 1795 he was elected a member of 
the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, 
and again elected in 1803. He was a presi- 
dential elector in 1796, and, from 1801 to 
1803, one of the associate judges of the 
county of Dauphin. Mr. Harris, who edited 
his journal, gives us this summary of Mr. 
Maclay's character: "He was a man of strict 
integrity, of positive opinions, having im- 
plicit confidence in his own honesty and 
judgment; he was inclined to be suspicious 
of the integrity of others whose sentiments 
or action in matters of importance differed 
from his own, and the journal, to which ref- 
erence has been made, is evidence of the 
strength of his intellect." " In personal ap- 
pearance Mr. Maclay is said to have been 
six feet three inches in height, and stout and 
musclar; his complexion was light, and his 
hair, in middle age, appears to have been 
brown, and was worn tied behind or 
clubbed." Mr. Maclay married, April 11, 
1769, Mary McClure ' Harris, daughter of 
John Harris, the founder of Harrisburg, and 
Elizabeth McClure, his wife; born April 13, 
1750, at Harris' Ferry ; died April 20, 1809, 

at Harrisburg, and buried in Paxtang church 
graveyard. 

Montgomery, Mrs. Rachel, the eldest 
daughter of John and Rachel Rush, was 
born at Byberry, in Philadelphia county, Pa., 
in 1741. She was full sister of the celebrated 
Dr. Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declara- 
tion of Independence. Rachel received an 
excellent education and was a woman of re- 
fined taste"and manners. She married, about 
1761, Angus Boyce. a merchant of Philadel- 
phia. He died a few years later, leaving one 
child, Malcolm. Mrs. Boyce married, about 
1769, the Rev. Joseph Mongomery, then pas- 
tor of the Presbyterian congregation of New 
Castle and Christiana Bridge, Del, and sub- 
sequently member from Pennsylvania in 
Congress, 1781 to 1783. In 1785 Mr. Mont- 
gomery, having been appointed recorder and 
register of the new county of Dauphin, re- 
moved with his family to Harrisburg. Here 



he died, in 1794, leaving his wife with three 
children, one by his former marriage. Mrs. 
Montgomery died on Saturday, July 28, 1798, 
at Harrisburg. 



Elder, Robert, son of Rev. John Elder, 
was born June 11, 1742, in Paxtang ; died 
September 29, 1818. He was educated at 
the academy in Chester county, and was 
destined by his father for the ministry. His 
inclinations, and the breaking out of the 
French and Indian war, when the boy en- 
listed with his father as a ranger on the 
frontiers, determined otherwise. With his 
Scotch-Irish neighbors, he entered heartily 
into the contest for independence, and 
throughout the war of the Revolution was 
in the field or engaged in organizing the 
associators, of which he was colonel, suc- 
ceeding Colonel Burd in the command of 
the companies raised in Paxtang. At the 
close of the conflict he continued his occu- 
pation of farming, avoiding public office, 
preferring the quiet of domestic life. Col- 
onel Elder married Mary J. Thompson, of 
Derrv, born October 19, 1750 ; died August 
18, 1813. 



Simpson, Murray, was born about 1744, 
in Buckingham township, Bucks county, 
Pa.; died February 3, 1807, in Huntingdon, 
Pa. His parents, John and Mary Simpson, 
went South and were residing in North Caro- 
lina in 1783 and in Georgia in 1791. The 
son learned blacksmithing, and, in 1763, 
settled on the Susquehanna, in what was 
then Upper Paxtang township, Lancaster, 
now Dauphin county. On the 15th of Au- 
gust, 1775, he was commissioned second 
lieutenant of Capt. James Murray's company 
in the Fourth battalion of associators, of 
Lancaster county. On the 28th of January, 
1777, Lieut. Col. Cornelius Cox, of the bat- 
talion, ordered him to remain in the " Conti- 
nental smith-shop " at Bristol. He served 
during the greater part of the Revolution, 
toward its close in command of a company 
of militia, when he returned to his farm. In 
the spring of 1793 he removed to Hunting- 
don, where he passed the remainder of his 
days. He married Margaret Murray, daughter 
of Capt. James Murray, of the Revolution. 
She was born in 1756 in Paxtang township, 
Lancaster county, Pa., and died April 27, 
1826, at Huntingdon, Pa. They were the 
grandparents of Hon. J. Simpson Africa. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



183 



Beatty, James, the fourth in descent from 
John Beatty, who settled in the Province of 
Ulster, Ireland, in 1690, was born 1746, in the 
townland of Ballykeel-Ednagonnel, parish of 
Hillsborough, county Down, Ireland; died 
December 1, 1794, at Harrisburg, Pa. From 
the family record, in the possession of his 
descendants, we have this entry: "That my 
children may know the place of their nativity, 
I, James Beatty, was born in the Kingdom 
of Ireland, and county of Down, parish of 
Hillsborough, and townland of Ballykeel- 
Ednagonnel, in the year of our Lord 1746, 
and came to America in the year 1784. My 
wife, Ally Ann Irwin, was born in said king- 
dom, county and parish, and townland of 
Tillynore, within two miles of Hillsborough, 
three of Lisburn, and three miles of Dromore, 
and six miles of Bally-nahinch, and ten of 
Belfast, which last place we sailed from the 
27th of June, 1784." In the fall of this year, 
he settled at Harrisburg, Pa., and thus be- 
came one of its first inhabitants. He subse- 
quently was the purchaser of a number of 
lots in the town, some of which remain in 
possession of his descendants. He was quite 
prominent in his adopted home, and held 
several official positions under the borough 
charter. He was buried in the Presbyterian 
graveyard, of which church he held member- 
ship. In personal appearance, Captain Beatty 
was about five feet eight inches, thickset, 
florid complexion, dark hair and blue eyes. 
He was an active and energetic business man, 
and his death was a great loss to the young- 
town. James Beatty married, in 1768, at 
Tullvnore, Alice Ann Irwin, born 1750, in 
' the townland of Tullvnore, parish of Hills- 
borough, county Down', Ireland, daughter of 
Gawin Irwin and Mary Brereton ; died June, 
1805, at Harrisburg, Pa., and there buried. 
They had issue, all born in Ireland. 



Willard, John Peter, was a native of 
Switzerland, born in 1745. He came to 
America as a soldier in the British service, 
but shortly after landing effected his escape. 
He then volunteered in the cause of the 
Colonies, and was with other deserters sta- 
tioned on the Indian frontier or as guard of 
prisoners of war. At the close of the Revo- 
lution he took up a tract of land in Lykens 
township, called " Amsterdam," where he 
settled, began farming, and subsequently 
married. He died in 1821, at the age of 76. 
His wife died the following year (1822), aged 



77. They left the following family : Adam, 
who came into possession of the homestead. 
His children, Joseph, John A., Henry B., 
and Adam, Jr., then divided the farm. Part 
of it yet remains in possession of the descend- 
ants. Samuel remained in the valley, a 
farmer, and had a large family. Anna Maria 
married John Philip Umholtz. 



Boyd, Capt. Adam, the son of John Boyd 
and Elizabeth Young, was a native of North- 
ampton county, Pa., born, in 1746. He 
learned the trade of a carpenter, and was 
following that avocation when the war of 
the Revolution called to arms. He was an 
early associator, and when the State of Penn- 
sylvania had formed its little navy for the 
protection of the ports on the Delaware, 
Lieutenant Boyd received a commission 
therein. During the year 1776, and the 
early part of 1777, he was most of the time 
in command of the armed sloop " Burke," 
and rendered efficient service in the conflict 
between the Pennsylvania navy and the 
British ships " Roebuck " and " Liverpool " 
in May, 1776. Growing tired of that branch 
of the service, Lieutenant Boyd requested to 
be discharged, that he might volunteer in 
the land forces. Being honorably dismissed 
from the navy, he at once entered the ■a.nay 
proper, holding the same rank therein. He 
was at the battles of Brandywine and Ger- 
mantown, with two of his brothers, one of 
whom was killed in the latter engagement. 
Subsequently, Lieutenant Boyd acted as 
" master of wagons," and as such remained 
with the army until after the surrender at 
Yorktown. Returning to the home of his 
mother, near Newville, he married and set- 
tled in Harrisburg. Upon the incorpora- 
tion of the borough of Harrisburg, in 1791, 
he was chosen a burgess, Dr. John Luther be- 
ing the other. In 1792 he was elected treas- 
urer of the county, and held the office until 
1806, when he declined a re-election. In 
1809 Mr. Boyd was elected a director of the 
poor, and during his term of office the county 
poorhouse and mill were erected. 

Mr. Boyd died on May 14, 1814 ; was in- 
terred in the Presbyterian graveyard, but 
subsequently his remains were removed to 
the Harrisburg cemetery. Mr. Boyd mar- 
ried, in 1784, Jeannette Macfarlane, of Big 
Spring, Cumberland county, daughter of 
Patrick and granddaughter of James Mac- 
farlane, who came from Ireland to Pennsyl- 



184 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



vania in 1717. Mrs. Boyd died in early 
life at Harrisburg, leaving one child, a 
daughter Rosanna, who married Hugh Ham- 
ilton in 1807. This estimable lady lived 
until 1872, when she died, the oldest in- 
habitant of Harrisburg, having been born 
here in 1786. 



Stewart, Andrew, was the son of Andrew 
Stewart and Mary Dinwiddie, whose remains 
lie in old Paxtang churchyard. The first 
Andrew Stewart- with his brother Archibald 
Stewart came to America prior to 1733 and 
settled in Paxtang township, then Lancaster 
county, Pa. The former remained there, 
while Archibald drifted down the Kittoch- 
tinny Valley into the Valley of Virginia, 
and settled in Augusta county, that State. 
He was the head of a large family and whose 
descendants have been represented in the 
recent history of our country by the rebel 
chieftain, Gen. James E. B. Stuart, " the 
Murat of the Confederacy." and by the Hon. 
A. H. H. Stuart, a prominent Virginia states- 
man of the old regime. The youngest son 
of Andrew Stewart, Sr., was the subject of 
our sketch, also named Andrew. He was 
born in Paxtang in 1748, and was a farmer 
by occupation. He was one of the leaders 
in the movement for the erection of the new 
county of Dauphin, and hence was named 
as one of the commissioners. In 1792 Mr. 
Stewart sold his plantation in Paxtang, and 
removed to Western Pennsylvania. He died 
in Allegheny county about the year 1827, 
the date of his will being the 14th day of 
June that year. Capt. John Rutherford and 
Thomas Brown, of the county of Dauphin, 
were the executors named in his will, but 
the former passed away before the settlement 
of the estate. We have no information as 
to any descendants. 



Hamilton, John, son of John Hamilton, 
was bom June 17, 1749, in New London, 
Chester county, Pa.; died August 28, 1793, at 
Harrisburg, Pa. Under the will of his father 
he inherited a " plantation and fulling-mill, 
bought of James Long, on Shearman creek, 
in Cumberland county" (Perry county). He 
was educated principally in the celebrated 
academy of Rev. Mr. Alison, Chester county. 
When upon a visit to his patrimony in the 
Juniata region, he was attracted to the su- 
perior excellence of a tract of land called 
"Fermanagh," now in Juniata county. He 



purchased it. On the Shearman's creek farm 
Hugh Alexander was his adjoining neigh- 
bor; he became attached to his daughter, 
and at twenty-three years of age he married 
her; established himself at "Fermanagh," 
and erected a large stone mansion. This 
house is standing. It has been occupied by 
himself, his son John and a grandson, Hugh 
Hamilton. He became, by successful indus- 
try and in right of his mother, Jane Allen 
Hamilton, of great fortune for his day. The 
inventory of. personal property at his death, 
in 1793, makes his effects in mone}' £7,500. 
At that moment he had active enterprises of 
various kinds in full operation — at Lost 
creek, at Fermanagh, in Shearman's Valle}' 
and at Harrisburg. He was one of the ori- 
ginal lot holders at Harrisburg. One of his 
largest houses was that at the southeast cor- 
ner of Market square ; another on his lot, 
Front street and Raspberry alley. In 1792 
he employed at his warehouse and stores, on 
what is now Mulberry street, between Second 
and Third streets, " as many as fifteen mules 
and a far greater number of horses, upon 
which he sent nails and salt and other mer- 
chandise to Pittsburgh." Sending nails to 
Pittsburgh at this date would be reversing the 
usual course of trade. He was one of the 
last of those in the interior who held slaves, 
a half dozen in all. All but one continued 
in the family until the death of his widow, 
not as slaves, but as free laborers on the 
farms. Mr. Hamilton was a sergeant in 
Capt. Gibson's company, Col. Wilson's bat- 
talion of Cumberland county associators, in 
"1776; captain of a company in Col. Samuel 
Lyon's battalion in August, 1777 ; and also 
captain in Col. Buchanan's battalion in 
1778, and was out in two campaigns, 1776 
and 1781. In the family records of the Mc- 
Alisters, of Lost Creek, Juniata, one of whom 
married a granddaughter of Capt. Hamil- 
ton, we have the following narrative : " The 
American army, December, 1776, shattered, 
disheartened and decreasing daity,were mak- 
ing precipitate retreat across Jersey into 
Pennsylvania, before the victorious army of 
Howe and Cornwallis. In this gloomy hour 
a meeting of the people was called at the 
farm of Mr. William Sharon within a couple 
of miles of Mr. Hugh McAlister, near the 
present town of Mexico, to consult and de- 
vise measures to reinforce Washington and 
the army. All the neighbors below the Nar- 
rows met. John Hamilton, of Fermanagh, 
was made chairman. It was unanimously 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



185 



agreed to raise a company of mounted men. 
All were young men, with younger families, 
but they did not hesitate. They agreed to 
march. Hamilton pledged himself to start 
immediately, then McAlister and Sharon. 
The former was chosen captain, the latter 
lieutenants, and in two days they were off, 
more than eighty strong, riding the first day 
to the mouth of the Swataxa, over snow many 
inches in depth. They reached camp, on 
the Pennsylvania side, below Trenton, the 
day after the Hessians were captured." None 
but men with their whole hearts in the cause 
would have made such a dreary march in a 
most inclement winter, unless thoroughly in 
earnest. This was the sentiment that actu- 
ated all the frontier settlers. In 1793 Har- 
risburg was scourged by a pestilence resem- 
bling yellow fever, an epidemic that then 
prevailed at Philadelphia, Baltimore and 
New York. One of its victims was Mr. Ham- 
ilton. He married, in December, 1772, Mar- 
garet Alexander, born March 17, 1754, in 
Shearman's Valley, Cumberland, now Perry 
county, Pa.; died August 22, 1835, at "Fer- 
managh," Juniata county, Pa.; daughter of 
Hugh Alexander and Martha Edmeston. 



Lewis, Eli, was a native of York county, 
Pa., born about 1750, and the first settler of 
the town of Lewisberry. He was a printer 
by profession, and had the honor of estab- - 
lishing the first newspaper in Harrisburg — 
the Harrisburg Advertiser — in 1789. This 
was purchased by Mr. Wyeth in 1792 and 
changed to The Oracle of Dauphin and Har- 
risburg Advertiser. Major Lewis was a soldier 
of the Revolution, and a gentleman of con- 
siderable literary acquirements. He was 
the author of a poem entitled " St. Clair's 
Defeat," printed in a small 32mo. at his 
office, copies of which are exceedingly rare. 
He died at his residence at Lewisberry on 
Sunday, February 2, 1807, aged 57 years. 
He was the father of Chief Justice Ellis 
Lewis of the Supreme Court of Pennsyl- 
vania. 



Cox, Col. Cornelius, son of John Cox and 

Esther , was born about 1750 in the 

city of Philadelphia. His father was a na- 
tive of England, a physician of prominence 
in Philadelphia, in which city lie died. 
He laid out Estherton. on the Susque- 
hanna, in 1761, supposing at the time it 
would become an important place. Dr. Cox 



was twice married — first to Sarah, widow of 
William Edgell, of Philadelphia ; second to 

Esther , of the same place. We know 

nothing further, save that their son was the 
subject of this sketch. Cornelius Cox re- 
ceived a good education in his native city. 
Some time prior to the Revolution we find 
him at Estherton in management of the 
estate left him by his father. He early 
espoused the cause of the Colonies, was pres- 
ent at the meeting at Middletown which 
passed the patriotic resolutions of June, 1774, 
and when the people were called to arms was 
commissioned major of Col. James Burd's 
battalion of Lancaster county associators. 
Was appointed assistant commissary of pur- 
chases, and also issuing commissary July 7, 
1780. Until the close of the Revolution he 
was actively engaged, whether it was in the 
collecting of flour for the French fleet, the 
gathering of blankets for the half-clad arm}' 
at Valley Forge, or the superintending of the 
erection of bateaux for the use of General 
Sullivan in his expedition against the Six 
Nations. In 1792 he was chosen one of the 
State electors for president in favor of Gen- 
eral Washington. Governor Mifflin ap- 
pointed him one of the associate justices of 
the courts of Dauphin count}', but preferring 
quiet, he declined the honor. He died Feb- 
ruary 3, 1803, at Estherton, aged about 53 
years. Colonel Cox married Mary Foster, 
born 1767; died August 2, 1810; daughterof 
John Foster and Catherine Dickey. 



Ayres, John, son of William Ayres and 
his wife, Mary Kean, was born February 9, 
1754. At the age of twenty-one years, ac- 
companied his father and family in their 
movement to Paxtang township, Lancaster, 
now Dauphin county, Pa. ; subsequently be- 
came the owner of the homestead there 
established, and added thereto a certain tract 
of land called " Ayresburg." In 1775, on 
the first call for volunteers for the Revolu- 
tionary army, he enlisted in Capt. Matthew 
Smith's company of riflemen, formed in 
Lancaster county, and detailed on the expedi- 
tion against Quebec under Arnold, but whilst 
the army lay before Boston, he took sick and 
was invalided. On March 13, 1776, he again 
enlisted in Captain Manning's company 
Fourth battalion of Lancaster county, com- 
manded by Col. James Burd. His father 
and several of his connections belonged to 
the same company. The Oracle of Dauphin, 
in announcing his death, August 17, 1825, 



186 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



remarks that "he was the last of the Revolu- 
tionary patriots in his neighborhood." John 
Ayres was twice married; married, first, in 
1781, Mary Montgomery, daughter of Gen. 
William Montgomery, of Mahoning, now 
Danville, Pa., who died at the age of twenty- 
three years, without issue. He married, 
second!}', in 1786, Jane Lytle, eldestdaughter 
of Joseph Lytle, of Lytle's Ferry, in Upper 
Paxtang township, Dauphin county, Pa. 
Jane Lytle was born near Anderson's Ferry, 
March 1, 1767 ; died, in Harrisburg, Pa., May 
7, 1831. The old burying-ground, one mile 
above Dauphin, contains the remains of this 
branch of the Ayres family. 

Reily, John, was born at Leeds, England, 
on the 12th of April, 1752. His father, 
Benjamin Reil}', emigrated soon after, and 
was a gentleman of some note in the Prov- 
ince of Pennsylvania. Receiving a classical 
education, the former began the study of 
law, and was admitted to the bar on the eve 
of the Revolution. Accepting a commission 
as captain in the Twelfth regiment of the 
Pennsylvania Line, subsequently (1778) 
transferred to the Third regiment, he served 
with valor and distinction, and was severely 
wounded at Bonhamton, N. J., being shot 
through the body. Returning home he 
slowly recovered, when he resumed the prac- 
tice of his profession. He was present and 
took part in the first term of the Dauphin 
count}'' court, in May, 1785. In 1795 he 
published at Harrisburg "A Compendium 
for Pennsylvania Justices of the Peace," the 
first work of that character printed in Amer- 
ica. Captain Reily died at Myerstown, May 
2, 1810. He married, at Lancaster, on May 
20, 1773, by Rev. Thomas Barton, of the 
Episcopal Church, Elizabeth Myer, the 
daughter of Isaac Myer, the founder of 
Myerstown, Lebanon county, born April 2, 
1755; died April 2, 1800. They had a large 
family. Captain Reily was not a brilliant 
orator, but was perfectly reliable as a lawyer, 
and had an extensive practice at the Lancas- 
ter, Berks and Dauphin courts. He was a 
tall, courtly gentleman, and an ardent Whig 
of the Revolutionary era ; was a polished 
writer, and a manuscript book of literary 
excerpts in the possession of his descendants 
shows a refined and cultivated taste. 



settled near the North mountain, then Han- 
over township, Lancaster county, was born 
August 18, 1752, in Hanover township. He 
was a farmer by occupation. At the outset 
of the Revolution he was appointed a lieu- 
tenant in the Hanover battalion of associa- 
tors, commanded by Col. Timothy Green. 
He served with distinction at Long Island, 
August 27, 1776, and through the campaign 
of 1777 was in constant active service. Dur- 
ing the remainder of the war he was in 
command of a volunteer company, which 
was formed for the protection of the frontiers 
from the encroachments of the Tories and 
their allies, the savage Indians of New York. 
The sword which he carried through the 
war is now in possession of William Barnett, 
of Dayton, Ohio. Major Barnett died May 
12, 1823. He married, April 29, 1784, Mary 
McEwen, of Hanover, a very estimable lady. 
She was born September 9, 1762 ; died March 
10, 1806, and is interred by the side of her 
husband. 



Barnett, John, the fourth in descent from 
John Barnett, who came from Londonderry, 
Ireland, to Pennsylvania., prior to 1730, and 



Murray, Patrick, was born March 17, 
1755, in county Donegal, Ireland; died July 
23, 1854, in Orange township, Ashland 
county, O. He came to America at the out- 
set of the struggle for independence, and we 
find that on the 3d of June, 1776, he enlisted 
in Capt. James Parr's company, of the 
First regiment of the Pennsylvania Line, 
for three years or during the war. He was 
discharged in 1782, and shortly after settled 
at Harris' Ferry, on the Susquehanna, and 
when, two years after, the town of Harrisburg 
was laid out, established himself in business 
as a " clothier and fashioner." In the year 
1800 he removed with his family to Greens- 
burg, Westmoreland county, Pa., remaining 
there until 1809, when he located in Stark 
county, Ohio. In 1812 he and his son James 
volunteered in the brigade of Gen. Reasin 
Beall, organized for the defense of the border 
settlers in the Northwest. While quartered 
at Fort Meigs the army became much dis- 
tressed for want of provisions ; the roads to 
the settlements were long, rough, and in poor 
condition, passing mostly through dense 
forests, and across marshes and bogs. The 
quantity of forage consumed by the cavalry 
as well as the supply of the quartermaster's 
department for the troops made it difficult to 
furnish the necessary rations at the proper 
time. On more than one occasion the troops 
were on the point of starvation, and this, with 
the inclemency of the weather, made their 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



187 



sufferings almost unbearable. Several remi- 
niscences of this period, in Mr. Murray's his- 
tory, have been preserved to us which show 
that under the most adverse circumstances 
his mother wit and his indomitable energy 
never forsook him, while his patriotism was 
none the less enthusiastic by his many depri- 
vations. After General Beall returned, the 
father and son served a second enlistment, 
and were at the battle of Fort Meigs. In 
that contest the elder Murray was separated 
from his company, and the grass being very 
tall it was presumed by his comrades that he 
had been killed and scalped by the Indians. 
After a few hours he appeared in the camp 
amid the cheers of his companions at his 
safe return. Upon the expiration of his term 
of service he returned to his home in Stark 
county, where he remained to 1812, when he 
removed to what is now Orange township, 
then Richland county, Ohio. It is said of him 
that, although his education was defective, 
he had a very retentive memory, and enjoyed 
at the. close of his long life the relation of 
the exploits and border achievements of him- 
self and other early pioneers in that section 
of Ohio. In many respects he was a remark- 
able man, and was all his life-time active, 
energetic and industrious. On the 4th of 
July the year he was ninety-nine years of age 
he rode to Ashland in a buggy, waked about 
one mile during the day and returned home 
some three miles, in the evening. He voted 
for ten different Presidents of the United 
States. Mr. Murray married, September 2, 
1786, at Harrisburg, Pa., by Rev. John Elder, 
of Paxtang, Mary Brereton Beatty, born 1769, 
in county Down, Ireland ; died March 2,1853, 
in Ashland count}', Ohio ; with her hus- 
band buried in Orange graveyard ; daughter 
of James Beatty and Alice Ann Irwin. 



Mitchel, Andrew, a native of Dublin, 
Ireland, born November 1, 1754, emigrated 
to America in 1774, on the eve of the Revo- 
lution. Espousing the cause of the Colonies, 
he took position as an officer among the de- 
fenders of his adopted country. He was a 
gentleman of finished education and excel- 
lent moral training, having been destined 
for a clerical life, adopted teaching as an 
avocation, and in the dearth of preceptors 
after the peace of 1783 had gratifying suc- 
cess as an educator. He came to Harrisburg 
in 1791, and in June, 1795, married Mar- 
garet, the widow of Capt. John Hamilton. 
He was one of the burgesses of the borough 



in 1799, and served a number of years in 
the town council. Mr. Mitchel was an of- 
ficer and early member of the Presbyterian 
church, and greatly assisted in iis first or- 
ganization. He died December 21, 1825, at 
his residence on Front street, now Mrs. Dr. 
Rutherford's. His daughter, Jane Alexan- 
der, wife of Dr. Thomas Whiteside, was the 
only child who survived him. 



Fleming, Robert, the fourth son of Robert 
Fleming and Jane Jackson, was born in 
Chester county, Pa., June 6, 1756. His 
parents were natives of Argyleshire, Scot- 
land, who subsequently removed to Ireland, 
and from thence emigrated to America, 
about 1746, settling near Flemington, Ches- 
ter county. Prior to tiie Revolution the} 7 
located within the limits of the " New Pur- 
chase," on the West Branch of the Susque- 
hanna, but during the ''Great Runaway" 
in 1778, they sought refuge among some 
friends in now Dauphin county. About 
1784 they removed to Hanover township, 
Washington count} 7 , Pa., locating on Har- 
mon's creek, where they resided at the time 
of their death, Robert Fleming at ninety-six 
and his wife at ninety-four. Robert Flem- 
ing, the subject of this notice, remained in 
Dauphin county; purchased land in Han- 
over township, on which he resided during 
his lifetime. On the 6th of February, 1783, 
he married Margaret, daughter of John 
Wright. He was one of the founders of the 
Harrisburg Bank, and instrumental in the 
erection of the Harrisburg bridge. He was 
an officer in the volunteer force of 1812, and 
filled acceptably various local offices. He 
was an elder in the Hanover church during 
the ministrations of Rev. James Snodgrass. 
He died February 4, 1817, and his wife De- 
cember 12, 1813, aged fifty-nine years. 



Egle, Valentine, was born October 27, 
1756, in Bern township, Berks countv, Pa. ; 
died November 23, 1820, at Harrisburg, Pa. 
At the age of nineteen he enlisted in Captain 
Ross' company, Col. William Thompson's 
battalion of riflemen, subsequently enlisting 
for one year in the First regiment of the 
Pennsylvania Line of the Revolution, and 
subsequently was lieutenant in Eighth bat- 
talion, Lancaster county militia. He learned 
the trade of a hatter, and settled in Harris- 
burg, Pa., where he established himself in 
business and w r as a gentleman universally 
respected and esteemed. He died suddenly 



188 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



from nervous shock and over-exertion, 
caused by the complete destruction of his 
'property by fire a few months prior. He 
married, in 1796, by Rev. Anthony Hautz, 
pastor of Frieden's Kirche, in Cumberland 
county, Pa., Elizabeth Thomas, born May 2, 
1772, in Londonderry township, Lancaster, 
now Lebanon county, Pa. ; died August 5, 
1867, at Harrisburg, Pa. She was the daugh- 
ter of Martin Thomas and Ursula Muller. 
Her father was a soldier of the Revolution, 
and her mother's father, John George Muller, 
was a lieutenant, subsequently captain, in the 
Provincial arm}', serving in the Forbes and 
.Bouquet expeditions to the westward. Said 
a contemporary at the time of her decease: 
" During her long and eventful life she was 
highly esteemed by all who knew her. She 
was an eye-witness of many interesting 
scenes, not only in frontier times, at a period 
when the red man was occasionally to be 
seen revisiting his old hunting grounds, but 
during the struggle for liberty — the war of 
the Revolution." She was indeed a remark- 
able woman, and the incidents of her life 
were sach as few persons have experienced. 
She was a devoted Christian, and her good 
deeds are the heritage of her descendants. 



ried, first, on May 4, 1779, at York, Pa., 
Catharine Ho3 r er, born October 31, 1758, in 
the Palatinate, Germany ; died August 27,' 
1796, at Harrisburg, Pa. 



Kunkel, Christian, son of John Christian 
Kunkel, was born July 10, 1757, in the Palat- 
inate, Germany ; died September 8, 1823, in 
Harrisburg, Pa. His father arrived in Penn- 
sylvania September 23, 1766, subsequently 
locating at or near York. Christian was 
brought up to mercantile pursuits. In the 
war of the Revolution he was commissioned 
an ensign in Colonel Slagle's battalion of 
associators, and was in active service during 
the campaign around Philadelphia in 1777 
and 1778. In 1786, in company with his 
brotber-in-law, George Hoyer, he located at 
Harrisburg. There he at once entered into 
business, which, with his indomitable energy 
and industry, proved highly successful. He 
was one of the prime movers and contributed 
toward the organization of the first German 
church in Harrisburg. Pie was burgess of 
the borough in 1796, and frequently a mem- 
ber of the council. He was elected, in 1809, 
one of the directors of the branch bank of 
Philadelphia at Harrisburg, and the same 
year appointed by Governor Snyder one of 
the commissioners for erecting a bridge over 
the Susquehanna, and was interested in other 
enterprises. His life was an active and busy 
one. Mr. Kunkel was twice married ; mar- 



Graydon, William, the son of Alexander 
Graydon and Rachel Marks, was born near 
Bristol, Bucks county, Pa., September 4, 
1759. He was educated in Philadelphia, 
and studied law under Edward Biddle, of 
that cit}'. He came to Harrisburg upon the 
organization of the count}' of Dauphin, and 
began the practice of his profession, being- 
admitted at the May term, 1786. He was 
the first notary public, commissioned Sep- 
tember 2, 1791, and a leading man in the 
borough during the " mill-dam troubles " 
of 1794-95. He was many years a member 
of the town council and president thereof, 
and subsequently one of the burgesses. He 
was the author of " Forms of Conveyancing " 
(in two volumes), " The Justice's Assistant," 
and edited "An Abridgement of the Laws of 
the United States" in 1802. Mr. Graydon 
was prominent in the organization of the 
First Presbyterian church, and for many 
years an elder thereof. He died at Har- 
risburg, October 13, 1840, in the eighty- 
second year of his age. " Mr. Gra3'don," 
says Rev. Dr. Robinson, " was a man of fine 
literary tastes, was highly esteemed as a 
gentleman of the old school, in his manners 
refined, courteous, of unblemished integrity 
in the many trusts committed to him, of 
high and honorable principles, and in the 
church and walks of Christian life a man of 
true piety and deep devotion." H. Murray 
Graydon and Dr. William Graydon are his 
sons. 



Fleming, Samuel, was born October 30, 
1761, in Cecil county, Md., died August 3, 
1851, in Harrisburg, Dauphin county, Pa. 
Removed with his father's family to West- 
ern Pennsylvania, where he served as justice 
of the peace and surveyor for Washington 
county ; was captain of a ranging company 
on the frontiers to protect them from the 
Indian marauders from the Ohio ; was one 
of the local committee to treat with the in- 
surgents during the Whiskey Insurrection. 
In 1812 he removed to West Hanover town- 
ship, Dauphin county, where he resided 
until a few years before his death. Mr. 
Fleming married, September 24, 1789, Sarah 
Becket, born 1771; d. January 21, 1831, in 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa. 






DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



189 



Hanna, Gen. John Andre, son of Rev. 
John Hanna and Mary McCrea, was born 
about 1761, at Flemington, N. J. He re- 
ceived a good classical education under his 
father, who was a most excellent tutor. He 
served in the war of the Revolution. To- 
ward its close came to Pennsylvania and 
studied law with Stephen Chambers, of Lan- 
caster, whose acquaintance he made in the 
army, and was admitted to the bar of Lan- 
caster county at November session, 1783. 
He located at Harrisburg upon the forma- 
tion of the county of Dauphin and wasamong 
the first lawyers admitted there. He took a 
deep interest in early municipal affairs, and 
there was little transpiring looking to the 
welfare and development of the new town 
in which Mr. Hanna did not take part. His 
marriage with a daughter of John Harris, 
the founder, brought him into unusual 
prominence. He represented the county in 
the Legislature, and in 1795 elected to the 
United States Congress; a position he filled 
up to the time of his death by successive re- 
election. During the Whiskey Insurrection 
he was a brigadier general of the Pennsyl- 
vania force in command of the Second brig- 
ade, Second division. In 1800 Governor 
McKean commissioned him a major general 
of the Third division of the militia forces of 
the State. He died at Harrisburg on the 
13th of July, 1805, aged forty-four years, and 
is buried in the cemetery there. General 
Hanna married Mary Harris, daughter of 
John Harris and Mary Read, who died Au- 
gust 20, 1851, in the eighty-first year of her 
age. They had nine children : Esther Har- 
ris, d. s. p.; Eleanor (first), d. s. p.; Sarah 
Eaton, married Richard T. Jacobs ; Henri- 
etta, died unmarried; Caroline Elizabeth, 
married Joseph Briggs; Frances Harris, 
married John Carson McAllister ; Julian C, 
married John Fisher; Mary Read, married 
Hon. John Tod ; and Eleanor (second), d. s. p. 



Forster, Thomas, son of John Forster, 
was born May 16, 1762, in Paxtang town- 
ship, Lancaster, now Dauphin county. Pa.; 
died June 29, 1836, at Erie, Pa. He received 
a good education, and was brought up as a 
surveyor. In the Revolutionary struggle he 
was a private in Capt. John Reed's company 
in the summer of 1776, in active service dur- 
ing the Jersey campaign of that year. In 
1794, during the so-called Whiskey Insur- 
rection, he served as colonel of one of the 
volunteer regiments on that expedition. He 



was one of the associate judges of Dauphin 
county, appointed October 26, 1793, by Gov- 
ernor Mifflin, resigning December 3, 1798, 
having been elected one of the representa- 
tives of the State Legislature that year. At 
the close of 1799 or early in 1800, as the 
agent of the Harrisburg and Presqu' Isle 
Land Company, he permanently removed to 
Erie. In the affairs incident to the early 
settlement of that town and the organization 
of that county, he took a prominent part. 
He was one of the first street commissioners 
of the town, president of the Erie and Water- 
ford Turnpike Compan}', one of the directors 
of the first library company and its librarian, 
and captain of the first military company 
formed at Erie, and which in 1812 was in 
service at Buffalo, Captain Forster being 
promoted brigade inspector. In 1823 he was 
appointed by Governor Shulze one of the 
commissioners to explore the route for the 
Erie extension of the Pennsylvania canal, 
and in 1827 was chairman of the meeting 
organizing St. Paul's Episcopal church. In 
1799 he was appointed by President Adams 
collector of the port at Erie, and successively 
commissioned by Presidents Jefferson, Madi- 
son, J. Q. Adams and Jackson, filling the 
office until his death. Colonel Forster mar- 
ried, October 5, 1786, Sarah Pettit Mont- 
gomery, born July, 1766, at Georgetown, 
Kent county, Md.; died July 27, 1808, at 
Erie, Pa.; daughter of Rev. Joseph Mont- 
gomery and Elizabeth Reed. 

Kean, John, was born October 3, 1762, in 
Philadelphia and died December 9, 1818, in 
Harrisburg, Pa. He was the son of John 
Kean [1728-1801 J and Mary Dunlop [1728- 
1819]. His father removed to what is now 
Dauphin county, Pa., in 1775. In 1780 he 
entered the Revolutionary service, and was 
with the army until after the capitulation of 
Yorktown. Upon his discharge he was 
placed with James Clunie, a merchant at 
Hummelstown, second sheriff of Dauphin 
county, at a salary of one hundred dollars a 
year and boarding. In this period he taught 
himself conveyancing and surveying. In 
1785 he located at Harrisburg, in partnership 
with Mr. Clunie. In 1788 he was one of the 
members of the famous " Harrisburg Confer- 
ence." He was one of the managers of the 
first library company, established in 1787, 
and the same year elected a commissioner of 
the county ; one of the trustees of the Harris- 
burg Academy, 1788; treasurer of the Pres- 



190 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



byterian congregation in 1790; chosen cap- 
tain of the first volunteer company upon the 
resignation of General Hanna, and president 
of the first fire company, and in 1792 ap- 
pointed an associate judge. In 1796 Mr. Kean 
purchased, with John Elder, Jr., New Mar- 
ket forge, about three miles from Palmyra, 
and removed thence. Was elected to the 
State Senate, and re-elected in 1798, serving 
until 1802. In 1805 he was appointed by 
Governor McKean register general, serving 
for three years. He removed to Philadel- 
phia in 1810, was a merchant there, returned 
to Harrisburg in 1813, was again appointed 
justice of the peace by Governor Snyder, 
which office he filled until his death. Judge 
Kean married, first, in 1786, Mary Whitehill, 
daughter of Robert Whitehill, of Cumber- 
land county. By her he had one daughter, 
Eleanor, who married, first, March 24, 1808, 
William Patton, M. D., son of Thomas Pat- 
ton and Eleanor Fleming, born in 1775, in 
Derry township, Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county, Pa.; died March 30, 1816. Mrs. 
Patton married, secondly, Christian Spayd, 
and left descendants. By his second wife, 
Jean Hamilton, born June 1, 1774; died 
March 20, 1847, at Harrisburg ; daughter of 
John Hamilton, there were four children, all 
deceased. 



Early Zimmermans. — The early history 
of the advent of the Zimmerman ancestors 
in Dauphin county, which at that time com- 
prised what is now known as Dauphin and 
Lebanon counties, is very obscure. There 
seem to be no records extant to give any in- 
formation on this subject. About the only 
knowledge that has so far come to light is 
the fact that three brothers, John Michael, 
Gottfried and Peter, and one sister, Isabella, 
who was married to one Rodearmel, and who 
died on the voyage without leaving any 
issue, originally came over from Holland ; 
and that some of them settled in Dauphin 
county, near Jonestown, which has since be- 
come a part of Lebanon count}'. One of 
these brothers, named Peter Zimmerman, 
passed the humble life of the hardy pioneer 
in what was then the frontier of Pennsyl- 
vania. All records as to the dates of his 
birth and marriage and death, and even the 
place of his burial, seemed to have vanished 
with the dim past. A son of this Peter Zim- 
merman, also named Peter Zimmerman, was 
born March 4, 1763, in Hanover township,- 
Lancaster county, Pa., as given on his bap- 



tismal certificate, now in the possession of 
Jacob Shaeffer, Cumberland county, Pa. 
These early Zimmermans, to be sure, are 
only slightly connected with the history of 
Dauphin county, but they are given for the 
purpose of more clearly showing the origin 
of the subsequent generations bearing that 
name, who have played an important part 
in the realistic drama of Dauphin county's 
history. 

The last named Peter Zimmerman married 
Miss Mary Magdelene Beane, of near Jones- 
town, now Lebanon county, Pa., and moved 
to a small unfertile farm in Cumberland 
county, a few miles southwest of Fairview, 
close to the mountains ; there were born to 
them eight children, of whom we have any 
record, five sons and three daughters, to-wit : 
Henry was born December 30, 1786, died 
March 12, 1839. Marv was born August 2, 
1788, died August 10", 1873, and was the 
second wife of Jacob Shaeffer, of Cumberland 
county, Pa. Elizabeth Zimmerman, of whom 
there is no record except that she married a 
certain Peter Blawser, and moved to the 
southern tier of counties of New York State. 
John Zimmerman, of whom there is no 
record, moved to Wooster, Ohio, where he 
died. Catherine Zimmerman was born 
November 9, 1795, married to Andrew Mona 
Smith and died June 7, 1862. Peter Zim- 
merman was born in 1796, the exact date is 
not known ; he was married to Elizabeth 
Mona Smith, and died at his home in 
Wooster, Ohio, in 1880. Samuel Zimmer- 
man was born March 11, 1798, in East 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
married Sarah Lehman, and moved to Wayne 
township, Wayne county, Ohio, where he 
died March 24, 1888, and lies buried near 
Madisonburg, Ohio. Jacob Zimmerman, the 
youngest of whom we have any record, was 
born January 26, 1805, and moved to Bed- 
ford count}', Pa., where he died August 26, 
1867. The father of these children is said 
to have died in 1810, and lies buried in the 
old graveyard now almost obliterated by the 
rough hand of time, along the river road, a 
few miles southwest of West Fairview. It is 
from this 'family, as well as from the line 
of early ancestors above, that the Dauphin 
county Zimmermans trace their origin. 

Snodgrass, James, the son of Benjamin 
Snodgrass, was born near Doylestown, Bucks 
county, Pa., July 23, 1763. His grandfather 
came from the north of Ireland about the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



191 



year 1700, locating in Bucks county, Pa. 
He graduated at the University of Pennsyl- 
vania in 1783 ; and was for a brief time a 
tutor therein. He studied theology under 
direction of the Rev. Nathaniel Irwin, then 
pastor of the church at Neshaminy, and was 
licensed to preach the gospel hy the Presby- 
tery of Philadelphia in December, 1785. Af- 
ter preaching about a year and a half in desti- 
tute places-in the central and northern part 
of New York, on the 16th of October, 1787, 
he accepted the call of the Hanover congre- 
gation of May previous, and until his ordina- 
tion on the 13th of May, 1788, he gave his 
attention to that church. At his installation 
there were present of the Presbytery of Car- 
lisle the revered and honored ministers 
Revs. John Elder, John Hoge, John Linn, 
John Craighead, Robert Cooper and Samuel 
Waugh. His pastorate extended over a 
period of fifty-eight years, and he was the 
last who ministered at Hanover. His death 
occurred July 2, 1846, and he lies interred 
in old Hanover church graveyard. The 
Rev. Snodgrass was twice married. His 
first wife, Martha, born November 12,1760; 
died December 20, 1828 ; his second wife, 
Nancy, born in 1770 ; died January 24, 
1839, and are both interred in the same 
graveyard. 



Steele, Gen. James, the -son of William 
Steele, Jr., and Abigail, daughter of Francis 
Baily, was born in Sadsbury township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa., in 1763. He received a 
good classical education. He represented 
Chester county in the Pennsylvania legisla- 
tive sessions of 1809 and 1810, served in the 
war of 1812-14 in the capacity of colonel, 
and for meritorious conduct promoted to in- 
spector general of the State troops with the 
rank of brigadier. He was an enterprising 
business man, and prior to the war erected 
a paper mill on the east side of the Octoraro, 
and in 1818 a cotton mill in the same neigh- 
borhood. General Steele removed to Harris- 
burg in 1839, dying there September 29, 
1845, and was the first person interred in the 
Harrisburg cemetery. His integrity and 
zeal, whether as officer or private individual, 
made him universally beloved and respected. 
He was a Presbyterian, but his wife and 
some of his family were Methodists. His 
son, Franklin B. Steele, was appointed 
military storekeeper at the Falls of St. An- 
thony in 1837, and from that period was 
closely identified with the history and inter- 



ests of the Upper Mississippi. He died Sep- 
tember 10, 1880. General Steele's wife was 
Miss Humes, of Lancaster county. After her 
husband's death she removed to St. Paul, 
where she died and is buried. Their chil- 
dren were : Frank, who married a Miss Bar- 
ney, of Baltimore, a granddaughter of Com- 
modore Barney; Sarah, married Governor 
Sibley, of Minnesota; Rachel, married Gen- 
eral Johnson, of St. Paul ; John, a physician 
of prominence, married Miss McClung, of 
Lancaster county, Pa. ; Mary, unmarried, and 
Abby, married Dr. Potts. 



Bucher, John Jacob, son of the Rev. John 
Conrad Bucher, a noted early divine as well 
as an officer during the French and Indian 
war, was born Januarjr 1, 1764, in Carlisle, 
Pa. In 1790, located in Harrisburg as a 
hatter and furrier ; in 1796, elected coroner 
of Dauphin county ; in 1798, appointed jus- 
tice of the peace by Governor Mifflin, and 
represented Dauphin county in the Penns3'l- 
vania Legislature, sitting at Lancaster, nine 
successive terms from 1803. In 1810 he was 
appointed by Governor Snyder one of the 
commissioners for the erection of the public 
buildings at Harrisburg. In 1818, appointed 
by Governor Findlay an associate judge for 
the county of Dauphin, filling the office, 
honorably, until his death, October 16,1827. 
Endowed with great wisdom and sagacity, 
and of unimpeachable integrity and honest}', 
he was called upon to fill many public and 
private trusts of honor and responsibilitj'. 
His remains now lie in the Harrisburg ceme- 
tery. Judge Bucher married, March 27, 
1792, Susanna Margaret Hortter, one of the 
five daughters of John Valentine Hortter, of 
Spires, Bavaria, who settled in Harrisburg 
in 1785. She was born in Gerrnantown Sep- 
tember 24, 1774; died in Harrisburg, De- 
cember 30, 1838. She was three years old 
when the battle of Gerrnantown was fought, 
October 4, 1777, and remembered the ex- 
perience of the family who were confined in 
the cellar of their residence, which was on 
the route of the battle. 



Elder, Thomas, grandson of the Rev. 
John Elder, born January 30, 1767 ; d. 
April 29, 1853, in Harrisburg, Pa. He 
received a good English and classical educa- 
tion, especially under Joseph Hutchison, a 
celebrated teacher in his da\ T . He subse- 
quent!}' attended the academy at Philadel- 
phia, where he graduated. Studied law 



192 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENCYUL OPEDIA 



with General John A. Hanna, and was ad- 
mitted to the Dauphin county bar at the 
August term, 1791. He at once began the 
practice of a profession in which he became 
distinguished, and which he followed with 
great success for upwards of forty years, and 
" was eminent as a safe and sagacious coun- 
selor, a laborious and indefatigable lawyer." 
During the Whiskey Insurrection, he volun- 
teered as a private in Captain Dentzel's 
company, which marched westward, prefer- 
ring the ranks to that of a commissioned of- 
fice, which his company offered him. He 
subsequently held the office of lieuten- 
ant colonel of the militia, and was fre- 
quently designated by the title of colonel. 
As a citizen in the early years of the borough 
of Harrisburg, Mr. Elder possessed public 
spirit and enterprise in advance of his con- 
temporaries generally. He was the promi- 
nent and leading spirit in organizing a com- 
pany to erect the Harrisburg bridge, the 
first constructed over the Susquehanna, and 
for many years the longest in the Union. 
Upon the permanent organization, he was 
unanimously elected the president, which 
office he held by annual re-election of the 
directors until his resignation in June, 1846. 
He was chosen president of the Harrisburg 
Bank in June, 1816, which office he held 
until his death. Governor Hiester appointed 
him attorney general of the Commonwealth, 
a position he filled with marked abilitv from 
December 20, 1820, to December 18," 1823, 
but he ever after positively refused to accept 
office, although he took deep and active in- 
terest for many years in the political affairs 
of the State and Nation. He was blessed 
with a physical constitution which enabled 
him to accomplish an extraordinary amount 
of labor without diminishing the elasticity 
of his spirits or the vigor of his mind. He 
lived to the advanced age of over 86 years. 
Mr. Elder was twice married ; married, first, 
March 23, 1799, Catharine Cox, d. June 12, 
1810 ; daughter of Col. Cornelius Cox, of 
Estherton, Pa. Thomas Elder married, 
secondly, May 30, 1813, Elizabeth Shippen 
Jones, born December 13, 1787, in Burling- 
ton, N. J.; died October 31, 1871, in Harris- 
burg, Pa.; daughter of Robert Strettell Jones 
and Ann Shippen. 



Harris, Robert, son of the founder, John 
Harris, and of Mary Read, daughter of Adam 
Read, Esq., of Hanover, was born in Harris' 
Ferry on the 5th of September, 1768. He 



was brought up as a farmer, and resided in 
the early part of his life in the log and frame 
building on Paxtang street, now used as a 
public school. His farm extended from the 
dwelling-house down the river to about the 
present location of Hanna street, and thence 
out over the bluff, including the ground oc- 
cupied by the Catholic cemetery, containing 
about one hundred acres. 

By the death of his father, in 1791, much 
of the business affairs of the family was early 
intrusted to him. He was possessed of con- 
siderable public spirit, aiding in the establish- 
ment of various enterprises, including the 
bridge over the Susquehanna, the Harris- 
burg Bank, and the Harrisburg and Middle- 
town turnpike road, in the first two of which 
he was a director and perhaps also in the 
last. Mr. Harris was appointed to various 
public trusts. He was one of the State com- 
missioners to survey and lay off a route for 
the turnpike from Chambersburg to Pitts- 
burgh, also for improving the Susquehanna, 
in the course of which the commissioners 
descended the river below McCall's ferry. 
When the Assembly of the State decided to 
remove the seat of government to Harris- 
burg, Mr. Harris was selected as one of the 
commissioners for fixing the location of the 
capitol buildings preparatory to the removal. 

During the mill-dam troubles, in 1795, 
Mr. Harris was one of the party of prominent 
citizens who finally tore down the Landis 
dam, the site of which was in the lower part 
of the city, and to which was attributed much 
of the sickness then prevailing here. He 
was one of the first to rush into the water, 
and it was said that he was then laboring 
under an ague chill, but never afterwards 
had a return of it. 

During the war of 1812-14, Mr. Harris was 
appointed paymaster of the troops which 
marched to Baltimore, and acted as such at 
York, where the soldiers were discharged. 

He was elected to Congress and took his 
seat in 1823, and by a re-election served 
therein until the 4th of March, 1827. On 
one of the occasions he brought home with 
him a picture, made before the days of 
daguerreotyping, of the celebrated John 
Randolph, of Virginia, representing him on 
the floor of the House of Representatives en- 
veloped in a large coat, extending his long, 
lank arms and his bony finger as he pointed 
it at Henry Clay and others in the course ot 
his impassioned and sarcastic harangue. 

Mr. Harris served in Congress during the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



193 



Presidency of John Quincy Adams, and of 
course knew him. When General Taylor, 
as President, was in Harrisburg, Mr. Harris 
was appointed to deliver the address of wel- 
come on the part of the citizens. During the 
subsequent intercourse with General Taylor 
he observed to him that he had dined with 
all of the preceding Presidents. He was 
married in Philadelphia in the spring of 
1791, during the Presidency of General 
Washington, and dined at his table, and 
there or elsewhere with Adams, Jefferson, 
Madison, and probably Mr. Monroe. He 
was intimately acquainted with General 
Harrison when a lieutenant in the army, had 
entertained him at his house in Harrisburg, 
and was invited to dine with him during 

' his brief term as President. He was on 
friendly terms with John C. Calhoun, and 
was well acquainted with General Jackson. 
After the State capital was removed to 
Harrisburg, the residence of Mr. Harris, who 
had in 1805 purchased the Harris mansion 
from his brother David, and from that period 
occupied it, was the center of attraction at 

1 the seat of government. He entertained 
many of the prominent men of the State and 
of the Legislature. At his house might have 
been seen Governor Findlay, Samuel D. In- 
gram, Thomas Sergeant, William J. Duane, 
Governor Wolf, and various other persons of 
distinction, including Isaac Weaver, of 
Greene county, speaker of the Senate from 
1817 to 1821, a gentleman of marked pres- 
ence, and who, Mr. Harris said, more resem- 
bled General Washington than any other 
man he had ever seen. During the Presi- 
dency of General Washington, Mr. Harris, 
then a young man, accompanied the party 
on board the Clermont, the steamboat of 
John Fitch, when that vessel made its trial 
trip on the Delaware. 

The first prothonotary of Dauphin county 
was Alexander Graydon, and the first reg- 
ister Andrew Forrest, both sent from Phila- 
delphia by Governor Mifflin, with whom 
they had served as fellow-officers in the war 
of the Revolution. Governor McKean for 
some reason refused to reappoint Mr. Forrest, 
and tendered the appointment to Mr. Harris. 
He, however, recommended the retention of 
Mr. Forrest, but Governor McKean informed 
him that if he did not accept the office lie 
would appoint some one else. He accord- 
ingly accepted it, but, it is said, divided the 
fees with Mr. Forrest for some time, and 
perhaps until his death. 



Until the close of his long life Mr. Harris 
was quite active in body and mind. He died 
at Harrisburg September 3, 1851, being 
within two days of fourscore and three years 
of age. His remains repose in the beautiful 
cemetery now within the bounds of our city 
by the Susquehanna. His warm and life- 
long friend, Rev. William R. DeWitt, D. D., 
delivered the funeral discourse, which we 
recollect well of hearing, in which he paid 
a most glowing tribute to the memory of 
Robert Harris. He died not unwillingly in 
the faith and hope of a Christian, and in the 
respect and kind regard of his fellow-citizens. 

Mr. Harris married in Philadelphia, May 
12, 1791, Elizabeth Ewing, daughter of the 
Rev. John Ewing, D. D., provost of the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Harris was 
born in Philadelphia December 2, 1772 ; 
died at Harrisburg April 27, 1835, and is 
there buried. 



Wallace, William, was born October, 
1768, in Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa.; died Tuesday, May 28, 1816, and with his 
wife buried in Paxtang church graveyard. 
He was the eldest son of Benjamin Wallace 
and Elizabeth Culbertson ; received a class- 
ical education ; graduated at Dickinson Col- 
lege ; studied law at Harrisburg under Gal- 
braith Patterson, and was admitted to the 
bar at the June term, 1792. He became in- 
terested in the Harrisburg and Presqu' Isle 
Land Company, and about 1800 removed to 
Erie, in the affairs of which place and in the 
organization of the county he took an active 
and leading part. About 1810 he returned 
to Harrisburg and partly resumed his pro- 
fession. Besides being a member of the bar 
he was a partner of his brother-in-law, John 
Lyon, at Pennsylvania Furnace. He was 
nominated by the Federalists for Congress 
in 1813, but defeated. He was elected the 
first president of the old Harrisburg Bank 
and was burgess of the borough at his death. 
He was a polite, urbane man, of slight fr*ame 
and precise address. Mr. Wallace had pre- 
viously married, in 1803, Rachel Forrest, 
daughter of Dr. Andrew Forrest, of Harris- 
burg, who died at Erie in 1804. Mr. Wallace 
married, 1806, Eleanor Maclay, daughter of 
Hon. William Maclay. She was born Janu- 
ary 17, 1774, at Harris' Feny, and died Jan- 
uary 2, 1823, at Harrisburg. 

Crouch, Edward, son of Col. James Crouch, 
was born at Walnut Hill, in Paxtang, Novem- 



194 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ber 9, 1764. He was a merchant by occupa- 
tion. At the age of seventeen he enlisted in 
the army of the Revolution, and commanded 
a company in the Whiskey Insurrection in 
1794. He served as a member of the House 
of Representatives from 1804 to 1806, and 
was a presidential elector in 1813. Gover- 
nor Snyder appointed him one of the associ- 
ate judges of the county of Dauphin April 
16, 1813, but he resigned upon his election 
to the Thirteenth United States Congress. 
He died on the 2d day of February, 1827, 
and is buried in Paxtang graveyard. " In 
private life he was an able and an honest 
man," wrote one of his contemporaries, and 
the record of his life shows him to have been 
a gentleman of uprightness of character, and 
as honorable as he was influential. Mr. Crouch 
married, first, Margaret Potter, born 1775 ; 
died February 7, 1797 ; daughter of Gen. 
James Potter, of the Revolution. Their only 
daughter Mary, born October 23, 1791; died 
October 27, 1846 ; married Benjamin Jordan, _ 
who succeeded to the estate of Walnut Hill. 
He married, secondly, Rachel Bailey, born 
April 16, 1782; died March 2, 1857. 

Ainsworth, Samuel, son of John Ains- 
worth and his wife Margaret Mayes, who was 
born November 11, 1765, in Hanover town- 
ship. His grandfather, of the same name, 
with his wife Margaret Young, were settlers 
in Hanover in 1736. In 1756 the family 
were driven out by the Indians and one of 
the children captured. The latter was never 
retaken. Samuel was brought up on his 
father's farm in Hanover, receiving a year's 
education in Philadelphia in addition to that 
acquired in the schools of the neighborhood. 
After the organization of the county he be- 
came quite prominent, and twice elected to 
the Legislature. He died while in attend- 
ance on this body, in Philadelphia, in Febru- 
ary, 1798. Mr. Ainsworth married, May 10, 
1792, by Rev. James Snodgrass, Margaret 
McEWen, daughter of Richard McEwen; born 
1770, in Hanover ; died October 29, 1867, 
near Lancaster, Ohio. 



Downey, John, the son of John and Sarah 
Downey, was born at Germantown, Pa., in 
the year 1765. The elder Downey was an 
officer of the Revolution under Gen. John 
Tracey and was inhumanly massacred at the 
battle, of Crooked Billet. The son received a 
classical education in the old academy there, 
and in 1795 located at Harrisburg, where he 



opened a Latin and grammar school. At 
this period, in a letter to Governor Thomas 
Mifflin, he proposed a "plan of education," 
remarkably foreshadowing the present com- 
mon-school system, and which has placed 
him in the front rank of early American 
educators. He was for man}' years a justice 
of the peace, and served as town clerk for a 
long time. He was the first cashier of the 
Harrisburg Bank, largely instrumental in 
securing the erection of a bridge over the 
Susquehanna, and one of the corporators of 
the Harrisburg and Middletown Turnpike 
Company ; was a member of the Legislature 
in 1817-18, and filled other positions of 
honor and profit. He died at Harrisburg on 
the 21st of July, 1827, and the Oracle speaks of 
him as " a useful magistrate and pious man." 
He wrote much for the press, and a series of 
articles published in the Dauphin Guardian, 
entitled " Simon Easy Papers," were from 
his pen — sparkling with wit; they are worth 
a permanent setting, as a valuable contribu- 
tion to literature. Mr. Downey married, June 
5, 1798, Alice Ann Beatty, daughter of James 
Beatty, Esq., one of the first settlers at Harris- 
burg. She died in Ashland county, Ohio, 
May 14, 1841. Their daughter, Eleanor 
Downey, born 1811, at Harrisburg; died 
1869, at Springfield, Ohio; married April 5, 
1851, Hon. Daniel Kilgore, of Ohio. 



Fager, John, son of John Jacob Fager 
and Rosanna Lutz, was born June 10, 1768, 
in Oley township, Berks county, Pa. His 
grandfather, John Henry Fager, born in 
1714, in Germany, married Susanna M. Leu- 
ter and emigrated to America, settling in 
Oley township, Berks county, where he died 
in 1778. His son, John Jacob, born 1738, in 
the Palatinate; died in 1815, at Harrisburg; 
married Rosanna Lutz, born 1739; died 1802. 
Their son John learned the trade of a hatter 
in Reading and came to Harrisburg about 
1790, where for a number of years he carried 
on the business. He was one of tlie founders 
of the Evangelical Lutheran church at Har- 
risburg in 1795 ; served as commissioner of 
the county of Dauphin, and for a number of 
years was a member of the town council. 
After retiring from active business, late in 
life, he was the collector of tolls at the east 
end of the Harrisburg bridge. He died at 
Harrisburg on May 10, 1848, lacking one 
month of being eighty years of age. Mr. 
Fager married Sarah Cleckner, born 1772; 
died 1844, at Harrisburg ; daughter of Fred. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



195 



erick Cleckner, Si\, one of the first settlers at 
Harrisburg. They had ten children, of whom 
those reaching mature years were Sarah, mar- 
ried George Adams, of Harrisburg ; Catha- 
rine, married Frederick Kelker, of Harris- 
burg ; Samuel, George C, and Dr. John H. 



Findlay, Gov. William, the second son 
of Samuel Findlay and Jane Smith, was 
born near Mercersburg, Franklin county, 
Pa., June 20, 1768. His progenitor, beyond 
whom he never traced his lineage, was Adju- 
tant Brown, as he was called, who took part 
in the famous siege of Deny, and afterwards 
emigrated to America with his daughter 
Elizabeth. The daughter married Samuel 
Findlay, of Philadelphia. A son by this 
marriage settled, about 1756, in Cumberland 
(now Franklin) county, Pa. In the year 
1765 he married Jane Smith, a daughter of 
William Smith. She died in her thirty-fifth 
year, the mother of eight boys, six of whom 
survived her. The subject of this sketch was 
the second of this family of sons. The 
Scotch-Irish settlers appreciated the import- 
ance of a good education. A knowledge of 
the common English branches they deemed 
indispensable for all their children, while 
one son in a family at least, if it could be 
accomplished by any reasonable sacrifice, 
received a classical education. William, in 
his boyhood, displayed that activity of mind 
and thirst for knowledge which were the 
characteristics of his manhood. His leisure 
hours were devoted to reading such books as 
were accessible. His instruction was, how- 
ever, such as could be obtained in the schools 
of the neighborhood. The meager advan- 
tages afforded him were studiously improved, 
and the natural activity of his mind and his 
ambition to excel enabled him to make sub- 
stantial acquirements. 

On the 7th of December, 1791, he was 
married to Nancy Irwin, daughter of Archi- 
bald Irwin, of Franklin county, and com- 
menced life as a farmer on a portion of his 
father's estate which, at the death of his. 
father in 1799, he inherited. 

Ke was a political disciple and a great ad- 
mirer of Mr. Jefferson. The first office 
which he ever held was a military one, that 
of brigade inspector of militia, requiring 
more of business capacity than knowledge of 
tactics. To the veterans of the Revolution- 
ary war it was given to become generals and 
colonels. In the autumn of 1797, that im- 
mediately succeeding the inauguration of 



John Adams as President of the United 
States, at a time when the only newspaper 
published in Franklin county was the organ 
of the Federalists, with its column strictly 
closed against the Republicans, Mr. Find- 
lay was elected a member of the House of 
Representatives of the State Legislature, 
which then sat in Philadelphia. He was 
again elected to the House in 1803. Mr. 
Jefferson had succeeded Mr. Adams in the 
Presidency, and the Republicans were in the 
ascendant in both National and State gov- 
ernments. The capital had, by the act of 
April 3, 1799, been temporarily established 
at Lancaster. Mr. Findlay, at this session, 
proposed that it should be permanently es- 
tablished at Harrisburg. The proposition 
then failed; but it was eventually carried, and 
in 1812 the removal was effected. He proved 
himself a leading member, and one of the 
most useful in the House, being placed in 
the most responsible positions. When the 
act to revise the judiciary system was before 
the House, Mr. Findlay offered additional 
sections, providing that a plaintiff might 
file a statement of his cause of action, instead 
of a declaration ; for reference of matters in 
dispute to arbitration ; that proceedings 
should not be set aside for informality ; that 
pleadings might be amended, and amicable 
actions and judgments entered without the 
agency of an attorney. 

These provisions were not then adopted, 
but they afterwards became and still are a 
part of the statute law. The object aimed 
at by their mover was doubtless to enable 
parties to conduct their own case in court 
without professional assistance. This the 
enactments have failed to accomplish ; but 
they have been of great advantage to attor- 
neys themselves, enabling them to cure 
their own errors and omissions, to which 
thev as well as the unlearned are liable. 

On the 13th of January, 1807, Mr. Findlay 
was elected State treasurer, whereupon he re- 
signed his seat in the House. From that 
date until the 2d of December, 1817, when 
he resigned to assume the duties of chief 
magistrate, a period of nearly eleven years, 
he was annually re-elected by the Legislature 
to that office, in several instances unani- 
mously, and alwaj^s by a strong majority, not 
uncommonly being supported by members 
politically opposed to him. During nearly 
four years of this time the United States 
were at war with England, and the resources 
of the country were severely taxed. 



196 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



In 1817, Mr. Findlay was nominated by 
the Republicans as their candidate for gover- 
nor. Gen. Joseph Hiester was selected by 
a disaffected branch of the Republican partj r , 
styled Old School men, to oppose him, who 
was supported also by the Federalists. The 
result was a triumph for Findlay, who was 
elected by a majority of over seven thousand 
votes. 

In 1820, Governor Findlay again received 
the unanimous nomination of the Republi- 
cans for re-election, and Joseph Hiester was 
nominated, as before, by the Republicans of 
the Old School, and was supported by the 
Federalists en masse. Under the Constitution 
of 1790 the patronage of the Executive was 
immense. To him was given the power of 
appointing, with few exceptions, every State 
and county officer. This power, considered 
so dangerous that by the Constitution of 
1838 and subsequent amendments the Ex- 
ecutive has been stripped of it almost entirely, 
was, in fact, dangerous only to the governor 
himself. For while he might attach one per- 
son to him by making an appointment, the 
score or two who were disappointed became, 
if not active political opponents, at least 
lukewarm friends. Many trained and skill- 
ful politicians had been alienated from the 
support of Governor Findlay by their in- 
ability to share or control patronage. The 
result was the election of his opponant. 

At the general election of 1S21 the Repub- 
licans regained ascendancy in the Legisla- 
ture. At the session of 1821-22, while Gov- 
ernor Findlay was quietly spending the winter 
with a friend and relative in Franklin county, 
he received notice that he had been elected 
to the Senate of the United States for the full 
term of six years from the preceding 4th of 
March. He immediately set out for the capi- 
tal, where he took his seat and served the en- 
tire term with distinguished ability. While 
he was in the Senate two of his brothers, Col. 
John Findlay, of Chambersburg, and Gen. 
James Findlay, of Cincinnati,Ohio, were mem- 
bers of the national House of Representatives. 
After the expiration of his senatorial term he 
was appointed by President Jackson treasurer 
of the United States Mint at Philadelphia. 
This office he held until the accession of Gen. 
Harrison to the Presidency, when, unwilling, 
at his advanced age, to be longer burdened 
with its cares and responsibilities, he resigned. 
The remainder of his life was spent in retire- 
ment with the family of his son-in-law, Gov- 
ernor Shunk, at whose residence, in Harris- 



burg, he died on the 12th of November, 1846' 
in the seventy-ninth year of his age. 

In person Governor Findlay was tall, with 
fair complexion and dark-brown hair. He 
had a vigorous constitution and a cheerful 
disposition. He was affable and courteous in 
his address, fond of conversation, but did not 
monopolize it. He understood and practiced 
the habits of a good listener. He exhibited 
great tact in drawing out the reserved and 
taciturn, and enabling them to figure well 
in conversation by giving rein to their hob- 
bies. He possessed a remarkably tenacious 
memory of names and faces. After a long 
separation he could recognize and call by 
name a person with whom he had had but a 
short and casual interview. His acquaintance 
was probably more extensive and his perso- 
nal friends more numerous than those of 
almost any other public man of his day. 

Ziegler, Col. George, the son of George 
Ziegler, a native of the Palatinate, was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa., July 3, 1768. He 
was brought up to mercantile pursuits, came 
to Harrisburg in 1795, and began merchan- 
dising, in which he was quite successful. In 
his early life he took an important part in 
public affairs. He was frequently a member 
of the borough council, was lieutenant 
colonel of the Sixty-sixth regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania militia, in 1807, and coroner from 
January 12, 1809, to December 18, 1811. 
Colonel Ziegler died at Harrisburg, August 
28, 1845, aged seventy-seven years. His wife, 
Elizabeth, born December 6, 1777, died 
January 2, 1853. They left three daughters, 
Catharine, married George Kunkel ; Mary, 
married Rev. John P. Hecht ; and Elizabeth, 
married Rev. Frederick Roth rock. Colonel 
Ziegler was an estimable citizen, a gentleman 
of sterling integrity and worth. 



Alricks, James, was fourth in descent 
from Pieter Alricks, who became very prom- 
inent in the early settlement of the Dutch 
on the Delaware, was a member of the first 
Assembly of the Province of Pennsylvania, 
and from 1685 to 1689 served as one of 
William Penn's counselors. James Alricks 
was born December 2, 1769, at Carlisle, Pa., 
and died October 28, 1833, at Harrisburg, 
Pa. He received a good education in the 
schools of the day, and was brought up to a 
mercantile life. In 1791-92, he was engaged 
in business in May Town, Lancaster county, 
and iu 1814 he removed with his family 







Enjraved U, J R.Ric 8 i 




■tJrc/fejA^/^ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



199 



from Lost Creek Valley to Harrisburg. He 
was a man of extensive reading, passionately 
fond of books, and he regarded an honest 
man, of fine education and refined manners, 
as the most remarkable object on the face of 
the earth. After his father's death, he was 
raised on a farm in Donegal, Lancaster 
county, and used to say at that period no 
one could get an education for want of 
teachers. While lamenting his own lack of 
education, he was remarkably well ac- 
quainted with history, ancient and modern, 
and with geography. He was likewise quite 
familiar with the writings of Shakespeare, 
Goldsmith, Burns, Campbell, etc. While 
living in the prime of life on the Juniata, he 
was delighted to meet and converse with 
such men as the Rev. Matthew Brown, the 
first Dr. Watson, of Bedford, Judge Jonathan 
Walker (the father of Robert J. Walker), 
William R. Smith, etc. On March 10, 1821, 
he was appointed clerk of the orphans' court 
and quarter sessions, serving until January 
17, 1824 He subsequently served as one of 
the magistrates of the borough. Mr. Alricks, 
married, July 21, 1796, at Harrisburg, by 
Rev. N. R.Snowden, Martha Hamilton, born 
August 5, 1776; died March 16, 1830; 
daughter of John Hamilton and Margaret 
Alexander. 



Bombaugh, Abraham, son of Conrad Bom- 
baugh and Esther Zell, was born in 1770 in 
Paxtang township, Lancaster (now Dauphin) 
county, Pa. He received a fair German edu- 
cation and entered mercantile life, subse- 
quently, however, turning his attention to 
farming. His father, being a man of con- 
siderable influence in the young town, gave 
Abraham prominence, and being a gentle- 
man of energy and activity, apart from his 
business tact, he was not long in winning his 
way to popular favor. As early as 1808 he 
was a member of the town council, and for a 
period of twenty-five years thereafter held a 
position therein. In 1809 he was chief bur- 
gess of the borough, and later on in life, 
from 1828 to 1831, elected to the same office. 
He was one of the county commissioners 
from 1832 to 1835, and for one or two terms 
was a director of the poor. Mr. Bombaugh 
died April 23, 1844, at Harrisburg. He mar- 
ried, March 18, 1802, Catharine Reehm, born 
July 14, 1770; died March 22,1855. They 
had Aaron, married Mira Lloyd, of Phila- 
delphia ; Catharine, d. s. p., and Sarah, mar- 
ried David Hummel. 
17 



Bowman, John F., was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., May 10, 1771. His father was 
a farmer, residing on Pequea creek, not far 
from Strasburg. John F. was brought up 
as a millwright, but subsequently entered 
mercantile pursuits. In 1809 he removed to 
Halifax, where he was a merchant from that 
period to 1830, when, believing a larger 
sphere of trade was opened for him, he went 
to Millersburg, where he successfully con- 
tinued in business until his death, which oc- 
curred on the 6th of November, 1835. Mr. 
Bowman first married, in 1794, a daughter 
of Isaac Ferree, whose farm adjoined that of 
his father. By this marriage they had the 
following children : Eliza, Maria, George, and 
Josiah, married Elizabeth Rutter. Mr. Bow- 
man married, secondly, in 1805, Frances 
Crossen, daughter of John Crossen. They 
had issue as follows: John J., married Mar- 
garet Sallade, Levi, Louisa, Isaac, Mary E., 
married Rev. C. W. Jackson, Lucinda, mar- 
ried Dr. Hiram Rutherford, Jacob, Emeline, 
and Benjamin. 

John F. Bowman was one of the repre- 
sentative men of the " Upper End," enjoyed 
a reputation for uprightness and honest}', 
and highly esteemed by those who knew 
him. Genial, yet quiet and unobtrusive, he 
never sought or would accept any local or 
public office. His second wife, Frances 
Crossen, was born August 13, 1786; died 
September 30, 1846, and lies interred beside 
her husband in the old Methodist grave- 
yard at Millersburg. 

Brua, Peter, the son of John Peter Brua, 
was a native of Berks county, Pa., where he 
was born in 1771. He learned the trade of 
a carpenter, and came to Harrisburg about 
1792. He served as director of the poor from 
1818 to 1821; was a member of the borough 
council in 1824, 1826 and 1829; commis- 
sioned county treasurer January 7, 1824, and 
was one of the county commissioners from 
1827 to 1829. While in the latter office lie 
was a prime mover in establishing the Lan- 
casterian system of education, which pre- 
ceded that of the common schools. Mr. 
Brua was a gentleman of sound practical 
sense, honest and upright, and highly 
honored in the community. He died at 
Harrisburg o#i the 1st of January, 1842, in 
his seventy-first year. He married Catharine 
Rupley, of Cumberland county, Pa., who 
died on the 19th of January, 1833, aged sixty 
years. They had six children : Margaret, 



200 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



married Hon. Simon Cameron ; Lucetta, 
married Jacob Hover ; Mary, married Isaac 
McCord ; Catharine, married Andrew Keefer ; 
Jacob, who went as a private in the Cameron 
Guards to Mexico, and died at Tampico, a 
few hours after receiving his commission as 
a lieutenant in the United States army ; and 
John Peter, who was a paymaster during 
the late Civil war and now on the retired list 
of the United States army. 



Wenrick, Peter, son of Francis and Eliza- 
beth (Greiger) Wenrick, was born in 1773, 
near Linglestown, Dauphin county, Pa. His 
father's family came from Germany and 
settled in what is now Lebanon county, 
Francis Wenrick subsequently removing to 
near Linglestown, where most of his family 
were born. Francis Wenrick was a soldier 
of the Revolution, had been at Brandy wine 
and Germantown, and on the frontiers against 
the Indians subsequent to the massacre of 
Wyoming. He died about 1785, and with 
his wife was buried in Wen rich s church 
graveyard. He had, besides his sons Peter 
and Phillip, several daughters. Peter Wen- 
rick received a comparatively limited educa- 
tion, brought up on his father's farm, which 
he continued to occupy until his election to 
the sheriffalty, when he removed to Harris- 
burg. He served in that office from October 
19, 1818, to October 16, 1821, and was always 
considered a faithful and efficient officer. 
He died at Harrisburg, February 27, 1825, 
in the fifty-second year of his age. Mr. Wen- 
rick married, February 2, 1796, Susannah, 
daughter of John Umberger, and their 
children were: John, Peter, Samuel, Francis, 
David, Joseph, Mary, who married a Mr. 
Sheafer; Elizabeth, who married a Mr. Min- 
shall ; Susannah, who married a Mr. Sloan; 
Sarah, who married a Mr. Scott; and Re- 
becca, who married a Mr. Umberger. 



Orth, Christian Henry, son of Adam 
Orth, was born March 24, 1773, in Lebanon 
township, Lancaster, now Lebanon county, 
Pa. ; died 1816 in the city of Baltimore, Md.; 
in life went by the name of Henry, dropping 
Christian. He received a good English edu- 
cation, and was brought up in the iron busi- 
ness. Upon the death of his, father he be- 
came the owner of New Market forge, but 
being elected sheriff of the county of 
Dauphin, commissioned October 17, 1797, 
like the vast majority who have followed 



him in that office, he became financially 
shipwrecked. In 1801 he was elected State 
senator, serving until 1804, when he posi- 
tivety declined further continuance in office. 
Governor Snyder appointed him flour in- 
spector of the port of Philadelphia in Janu- 
ary, 1809, but he resigned this office in 
April following, when he entered mercantile 
pursuits in Philadelphia. He remained in 
that city until about the commencement of 
the last war with England, when he re- 
moved to Baltimore, and had there estab- 
lished a successful business as a merchant, 
when he suddenly died, at the age of forty- 
three. Mr. Orth married, in 1794, Rebecca 
Rahm, born November 22, 1773 ; died Decem- 
ber 31, 1843, at Harrisburg, Pa.; daughter 
of Conrad Rahn and Catharine Weiser. 



Stewart, Robert Templeton, was born 
June 15,. 1773, in Hanover, and died Octo- 
ber, 1835, at Hoilidaysburg, Pa., while en 
route to Pittsburgh ; buried at Saltsburg, 
Indiana county, Pa. He settled in Belle- 
fonte in the year 1800, and was admitted to 
the bar of Centre county at the November 
term. He was retained in the famous slander 
suit of McKee vs. Gallagher, August term, 
1801, in which there were fourteen lawyers 
for the plaintiff and twenty-two for defend- 
ant. In 1810 he was appointed postmaster, 
and continued in office until 1819. In 1810 
engaged in mercantile pursuits with his 
brother, William C, and in 1819 entered 
into partnership with John Lyon in the 
manufacture of iron; residence at Coleraine 
Forges, Huntingdon county. In 1828 Lyon 
and Stewart sold Coleraine Forges to Joseph 
and James Barnett and Anthony Shorb. 
He moved to Pittsburgh in L823, and built 
Sligo Rolling Mill. Represented Allegheny 
county in Pennsylvania Legislature in 1831- 
32. Disposing of his interests in the iron 
business, Mr. Stewart went to manufactur- 
ing salt on the Kiskiminetas. He was 
a man of genial disposition and social 
habits, and of great practical humor. In 
person, above the ordinary size, and of 
very dark complexion, which he inherited 
from his grandmother Stewart. He mar- 
ried, in 1809, by Rev. Henry Wilson, Mary 
Dunlop, daughter of James Dunlop, and 
Jean, daughter of Andrew Boggs, of Done- 
gal township, Lancaster county, Pa., who, in 
connection with James Harris, in 1795, laid 
out the town of Bellefonte. Mary Dunl< p 
Stewart died in 1827, aged forty-five years, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



201 



and was buried in the First Presbyterian 
churchyard, Pittsburgh. Robert T. Stewart 
married, secondly, in 1831, Mrs. Mary E. 
Hamilton, of Middlesex, Cumberland county, 
Pa., who died in Pittsburgh in 1842. 



Port Lyon and Greenshurg) about the year 
1826. He married, in 1804, Rebecca Mur- 
ray, daughter of Col. John Murray, of the 
Revolution. 



McCammon, John, of Middletown, was born 
in the county of Down, Ireland, about the 
year 1774, and emigrated to the United States 
when about seventeen years of age. He re- 
sided a short time in Chester county, from 
whence he came to Middletown, where he 
followed his trade of stone-mason. He mar- 
ried there and afterwards kept the principal 
hotel and stage office on Main street, near 
Center square. When General Lafayette, on 
his visit to America, in 1824-25, passed 
through Middletown on his way to Harris- 
burg, he and his escort dined at the house of 
Mr. McCammon. Mr. McCammon was ap- 
pointed postmaster early in 1803, and con- 
tinued to hold the office until December 24, 
1829, a period of nearly twenty-seven years. 
He died July 24, 1838, aged sixty-four years, 
and was buried in the old Presbyterian grave- 
yard in Middletown. Two of Mr. McCam- 
mon's daughters served lengthened terms as 
postmistresses, Mrs. Catharine A. Stouch and 
Mrs. Rachel 0. McKibbin, making in all a 
period of about forty-seven years for the 
family as postmasters. Mr. McCammon was 
a consistent member of the Paxtang Presby- 
terian church. 



Green, Innis, the eldest son of Col. Tim- 
othy Green and Mary lnnis, was born in 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 25, 1776. His early years were spent 
on his father's farm, but he received a toler- 
ably fair English education, an essential in 
the Scotch-Irish settlements. His father, 
who built a mill at the mouth of Stony creek 
about 1790, dying in 1812, Innis took charge 
of it. He was appointed one of the associate 
judges of Dauphin county by Governor 
Findlay, August 10, 1818, resigning October 
23,1827, having been elected to the National 
House of Representatives. He served dur- 
ing the Twentieth and Twenty-first Con- 
gresses. Governor Wolf, January 26, 1832, 
re-appointed him associate judge, a position 
he held at the time of his death, which oc- 
curred on the 4th of August, 1839. His 
remains lie interred in the cemetery at 
Dauphin. Judge Green laid out the town 
(which for many years went by the names of 



Kelker, John, fourth son of Anthony 
Kelker and Mary Magdalena Meister, was 
born at Annville, Pa., June 12, 1776. He re- 
ceived a good education, or rather such as 
the country afforded during the Revolution- 
ary era, and was brought up to mercantile 
pursuits, and learned the trade of a hatter. 
In 1812 he was elected sheriff of Dauphin 
county, and permanently removed to Harris- 
burg April 29, 1813. He was appointed 
deputy marshal for the county, and took the 
census thereof in 1830, and served as county 
treasurer from 1829 to 1832. Mr. Kelker was 
an officer of the Reformed church, Harris- 
burg, and one of the building committee 
when the present church was erected. He 
died at Harrisburg April 29, 1859, at the 
age of eighty-three. " In social life," wrote 
a contemporary, " he was an example of ur- 
bane manners, of warm and genial friendship, 
of generous hospitality, and was everywhere 
welcomed as a man of courteous and kind 
disposition." Mr. Kelker married, in 1798, 
Sabina, daughter of Henry Shantz and Sabina 
Meily, of Lebanon, who died at Harrisburg, 
December 26, 1853, and had issue. 



Jefferson, Joseph, was a native of Eng- 
land, born in 1776. He was the son of a 
distinguished actor, who was the contem- 
porary of Garrick. It is well authenticated 
that the English Jeffersons, from whom 
Thomas Jefferson, the third President, 
claimed descent, and the ancestry of Joseph 
Jefferson the elder, were of the same county 
of England. It is a fact, also, that Mr. Jef- 
ferson, when President, sent for the come- 
dian, then in Washington, and the interview 
satisfied both parties that the}' were of the 
same stock, and that conclusion was strength- 
ened by a strong family resemblance. The 
latter was asked to dine at the executive 
mansion. He very courteously but firmly 
declined, saying that his gratification and 
pride in their possible connection was so 
great that it would be marred if the matter 
were known to the world, as any avowal of 
it would be misconstrued. He was educated 
for the stage, and in 179.3 came to Bos- 
ton, where and in New York ho performed 
until about 1803, when he located in Phila- 



202 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



delphia. Here he was quite a favorite, 
especially at the Chestnut street theater. 
From 1825 to 1832 he made Harrisburg his 
home, having a suite of apartments in the 
old Shakspeare building. He died here on 
the 4th of August, 1832, greatly lamented. 
His remains were interred in the burying 
ground attached to St. Stephen's Episcopal 
church, and from thence removed to the 
Harrisburg cemetery. The inscription on 
his tomb was written by Chief Justice Gib- 
son, and has often been quoted and admired 
for its diction. 

Of him the late John P. Kennedy wrote: 
"He played everything that was comic, and 
always made people laugh until the tears 
came in their eyes. Laugh! Why I don't 
believe he ever saw the world doing any- 
thing else. Whomsoever he looked at 
laughed. Before he came through the side 
scenes, when he was about to enter he would 
produce the first words of his part to herald 
his appearance, and instantly the whole 
audience set up a shout. It was only the 
sound of his voice. He had a patent right 
to shake the world's diaphragm which 
seemed to be infallible. When he acted, 
families all went together, young and old. 
Smiles were on every face; the town was 
happy. The chief actors were invited into 
the best company, and I believe their per- 
sonal merits entitled them to all the esteem 
that was feit for them." 

Mr. Jefferson possessed great taste and 
skill in the construction of intricate stage 
machinery, and was unrivalled in his pecu- 
liar personations. His favorite characters 
were Kit Cosey, Old D'Oiley and Admiral 
Cop. He is known as the elder Jefferson. 
His son and grandson were alike great actors 
— the father of the second Joseph bequeath- 
ing to him his genius and his aspirations, 
with all that polish which rendered each so 
popular in his day. And now comes a third 
Joseph Jefferson, who, since the days of 
Hackett, has made the character of Rip Van 
Winkle his own. 



Buehler, George, the son of Henry 
Buehler, a soldier of the Revolution, and 
Jane Trotter, was born near the town of 
Lebanon, Pa., in July, 1776. His parents 
were Moravians ; they lie buried in Mount 
Hebron burying ground, and were life-long 
members of the old Hebron church. George 
received a good English and German educa- 
tion at the celebrated Moravian school at 



Lititz, and was subsequently brought up to 
mercantile pursuits. He was commissioned 
by Governor Mifflin justice of the peace for 
Lebanon township December 3, 1799. The 
year following, under the auspices of the 
Harrisburg and Presqu' Isle Land Com- 
pany, he removed to Erie, and was appointed 
in August, 1801, by President Jefferson, col- 
lector of the Eighteenth Collection District 
of Pennsylvania. Mr. Buehler took a prom- 
inent part in the affairs connected with the 
early organization of Erie county. At his 
residence, on the 2d of April, 1803, that 
county was organized for judicial purposes. 
He was a member of the first council of the 
town of Erie in 1806, and in 1808 and 1809 
was borough burgess. He was one of the first 
to aid in developing the Lake Erie trade, 
foreseeing at that early day the advantages 
of that magnificent port of the lakes. In 
1811-12 he was a member of the Erie Light 
Infantry, Captain Forster, which was in active 
service during a portion of that period. In 
1812, owing probably to the war troubles on 
the frontiers, he came to Harrisburg and 
took charge of the " Golden Eagle." He died 
at Harrisburg on the 5th of August, 1816, 
aged forty years. Mr. Buehler married 
previous to removing to Erie, Maria, daughter 
of Peter Nagle, of Reading. She was born 
December 25, 1779, and died at Harrisburg 
July 27, 1843 ; a lady of gi*eat amiability of 
character. Mr. Buehler was a man of sterling 
integrity, and his brief life was one of activity, 
enterprise and industry. At Erie he stood 
high in the esteem of its citizens, and at 
Harrisburg his appreciation was none the 
less. 



Keller, John Peter, son of Charles An- 
drew Keller and Judith Barbara Bigler, was 
born at Lancaster, Pa., September 28, 1776. 
His ancestor belonged to one of the oldest 
families in Switzerland, and emigrated to 
America in 1735. John Peter learned the 
trade of a brass founder, coming to Harris- 
burg in 1796. In 1801 he established him- 
self in business as " brass founder and rope- 
maker," which proved successful, and after- 
wards in general merchandising. He was a 
member of the borough council almost con- 
tinuously from 1810 to 1824, and was quite 
prominent and influential in the public 
affairs of his day. He was identified with 
nearly all the early enterprises of the town, 
such as the Harrisburg Bridge Company, 
Harrisburg and Middletown Turnpike Com- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



203 



pany, and at his death was the last survivor 
of the original board of directors of the Har- 
risburg Bank. He was a gentleman of 
thrift, industry and indomitable energy, up- 
right, honored and respected by his fellow- 
citizens. He was no less decided and influ- 
ential as a Christian, being one of the found- 
ers of the Lutheran church in Harrisburg. 
He died at Harrisburg October 1, 1859, in the 
eighty-fourth year of his age. Mr. Kel- 
ler was twice married. His first wife was 
Catharine Schaeffer, daughter of Rev. Fred- 
erick Schaeffer, D. D., of Lancaster, born 
November 6, 1774, died December 19, 1842, 
and by whom he had the following children: 
Frederick, George, Rev. Emanuel, Eliza, m. 
James R. Boyd, Maria, m. Lewis L. Plitt, 
Catharine, m. James Gilliard, John Peter, 
Sophia, m. Thomas Montgomery, William, 
Frederick, George, Benjamin, Peter, Charles 
and Charles Andrew. His second wife was 
Mrs. Rachel Cochran, widow of William 
Cochran, formerly sheriff of the county, who 
survived him thirteen years. 



Alricks, of Harrisburg ; William M., J. Wal- 
lace, James Wilson, and Martha, married 
Dr. Edward L. Orth, of Harrisburg. As a 
minister there were few who stood higher in 
the estimation of his brethren in the Presby- 
tery than the Rev. William Kerr. 



Kerr, William, was born in Bart town- 
ship, Lancaster county, Pa., October 13, 1776. 
His father dying early, he was left to the 
tender care of a pious mother. After some 
years spent in the schools of the neighbor- 
hood, he was sent to Jefferson College, Can- 
nonsburg, where he was graduated. For 
some years thereafter he was principal of an 
academy at Wilmington, Del. He subse- 
quently placed himself under the care of the 
Presbyteiw of New Castle, and was shortly 
after ordained by that body. He preached 
in Harrisburg about the years 1805-6, and 
upon the resignation of the Rev. Mr. McFar- 
quhar was sent to supply the pulpit of the 
old Donegal church. In the fall of 1808 the 
congregation at Columbia made application 
to Mr. Kerr for part of his time. It was not, 
however, until the year following that he 
assented to give them a portion of his min- 
isterial labors. He continued to be the 
stated supply there until the first Sunday in 
January, 1814, when he preached his fare- 
well sermon. Mr. Kerr also preached at 
Marietta in addition to his charge at Donegal. 
He died September 22, 1821, aged forty- 
five years, and is interred in old Donegal 
church graveyard. The Rev. Mr. Kerr mar- 
ried Mary Elder, daughter of James Wilson 
and Mary Elder, of Derry, born 1788 ; died 
February 22, 1850, at Harrisburg; and their 
children were : Mary E., married Hermanus 



Forster, John, son of John Forster, was 
born September 17, 1777, in Paxtang, Lan- 
caster, now Dauphin county, Pa.; died May 
28, 1863, at Harrisburg, Pa. ; he received a 
good education and was at Princeton when 
a call was made by President Washington for 
volunteers to march to Western Pennsyl- 
vania to put down the so-called " Whiskey 
Insurrection " of 1794, and was on that ex- 
pedition as an aid to General Murray. He 
subsequently read law with General Hanna, 
but never applied for admission, turning his 
attention to mercantile pursuits, in which he 
was very successful. During the military 
era of the Government prior to the war of 
1812 he was colonel of the State militia, and 
in 1814, when the troops from Pennsylvania 
marched to the defense of the beleaguered 
city of Baltimore, he was placed in command 
of a brigade of volunteers. For his gallant 
services in that campaign the thanks of the 
general commanding were tendered in special 
orders. He served in the State Senate from 
1814 to 1818. General Forster was cashier 
of the Harrisburg Bank for a period of at 
least sixteen years, established the Bank of 
Lewistown, and in 1837 was cashier of the 
Exchange Bank of Pittsburgh. He subse- 
quently became president of the Branch 
Bank at Hollidaysburg, but in a few years re- 
tired from all business pursuits and returned 
to his home at Harrisburg. General Forster 
was faithful, honest and upright in all his 
business connections, and a good financier. 
He was twice married ; first, September 25, 
1798, Mary Elder, born 1779 ; died Decem- 
ber 18, 1831, at Harrisburg, Pa. ; daughter 
of John Elder and Elizabeth Awl. General 
Forster married, secondly, July 9, 1833, 
Margaret Snodgrass Law, born March 6, 
1804; died December 9, 1891; daughter of 
Benjamin Law, of Mifflin county, Pa., and 
widow of Rev. James H. Stuart, a Presby- 
terian minister of the Kishacoquillas Valley. 
There was issue by both marriages. 

Crain, Richard Moore, was born in No- 
vember, 1777, in Hanover township. Lancas- 
er county, Pa.; died Friday, September 17, 
1852, in Harrisburg, Pa. He received a fair 



204 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



education and was brought up on his father's 
farm. He became quite prominent in pub- 
lic affairs the first decade of this century, and 
during the incumbency of Gen. Andrew Por- 
ter as surveyor general of Pennsylvania, Mr. 
Grain received the appointment of deputy 
secretary of the Land Office, a position he ac- 
ceptably filled through all the changes of ad- 
ministration for forty years, until the advent 
of Governor Ritner, when he was displaced. 
He then retired to his farm in Cumberland 
county, from which district he was sent a 
delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 
1837, in which he was a leading spirit. Dur- 
ing the war of 1812-14 he commanded a com- 
pany of volunteers from Harrisburg, and was 
subsequently commissioned colonel of the 
Pennsylvania militia. Colonel Crain mar- 
ried, in 1802, Elizabeth Whitehill, born 1771; 
died October 2. 1848; daughter of Robert 
Whitehill and Eleanor Read. 



Jordan, Benjamin, son of Thomas Jordan 
and Rachel Steele, was born July 19, 1779, 
on the ground where the town of Milton, 
Northumberland county, Pa., is located. 
Thomas Jordan, the first of his family, was 
an emigrant from Scotland, coming to Amer- 
ica prior to 1700, and settled in Cecil county, 
Md. He and his family were rigid Presby- 
terians, and attached themselves to Christi- 
anna church, located just over the line in 
the State of Delaware. In the yard of that 
church the remains of four generations of 
the Jordan family rest. Thomas Jordan, 
father of Benjamin, was born near this old 
church prior to 1752, from whence he re- 
moved to Northumberland county, prior to 
the war of the Revolution. When the son 
was only a few weeks old the family were 
driven from their home by the marauding 
Indians, when they located in York county 
where Thomas Jordan died. He married 
Rachel Steele, the eldest sister of Gen. Archi- 
bald and Gen. John Steele, of Revolution- 
ary memory. In 1805 Benjamin Jordan 
removed to Lancaster, where he engaged 
himself in the business of bookseller with 
William Dickson, at the same time assisted 
in editing the Lancaster Intelligencer until 
1808, when he was appointed weighmaster 
of the port of Philadelphia. In 1816 he re- 
signed and came to Dauphin county, taking 
up his residence at Walnut Hill. Mr. Jor- 
dan represented the Dauphin District in the 
State Senate 1846 to 1850. He died at his 
residence May 24, 1861, in the eighty-second 



year of his age. Mr. Jordan married, Octo- 
ber 29, 1811, Mary Crouch, born October 23, 
1791, at Walnut Hill, Dauphin county, Pa.; 
died October 27, 1846, at the same place ; 
daughter of Edward Crouch and Margaret 
Potter. They are both interred in old Pax- 
tang church graveyard. 



Hiester, Gen. Gabriel, Jr., son of Gabriel 
Hiester and Elizabeth Bausman, was born in 
Bern township, Berks county, Pa., January 
5, 1779. He received a good English and 
German education, and his early years were 
spent on his father's farm. His father being 
an active politician, the son was early imbued 
with the same spirit. In 1809 he was ap- 
pointed by Governor Snyder clerk of the 
courts of Berks county, and in 1811 pro- 
thonotary, holding these offices until 1817. 
During the war of 18L2-14 he was brigade 
major and served under General Adams, of 
Berks county, during the campaign at Wash- 
ington and BaUimore. Under appointment 
by Governor Findlay, he held the office of 
associate judge from 1819 to 1823. Gov- 
ernor Shulze appointed Judge Hiester sur- 
veyor general, when he removed to Harris- 
burg. He held that position from May 11, 
1824, to May 11, 1830. He was a presiden- 
tial elector in 1817, and again in 1821, cast- 
ing his vote for James Monroe. About 1833 
he erected the first rolling-mill in this neigh- 
borhood, at Fairview, on the Conedoguinet. 
He died there suddenly, September 14, 1831, 
in his fifty-sixth year, and is buried in the 
Harrisburg cemetery. General Hiester mar- 
ried, May 12, 1803, Mary, daughter of Dr. 
John Otto, of Reading, who died at Esther- 
ton, January 9, 1853. They had children : 
Louisa Harriet, married C. B. Bioren ; Au- 
gustus O., Gabriel, and Catharine. 



Fox, John, son of John Fox and Ann 
Margaret Rupert, was born June 10, 1780, 
near Hummelstown, Dauphin count} 7 , Pa. 
He was educated in the country schools of 
the neighborhood, and a farmer by occupa- 
tion. He became quite prominent and in- 
fluential in the political affairs of the county, 
and served as a member of the House of 
Representatives of Pennsylvania from 1831 
to 1833. He filled the office of sheriff from 
October 14, 1833, to October 21, 1836, and 
again from October 19, 1839, to October 24, 
1842. Apart from these positions of trust 
and honor, he served his neighbors in the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



205 



various township offices with fidelity. He 
died at his residence in Hummelstown, July 
19, 1853, aged seventy-three years. He was 
a representative man, not only of his family 
but of the county, a faithful officer, of strict 
integrity, upright and conscientious in all 
his relations with his fellow-men. 



Kelker, Frederick, son of Anthony 
Kelker and Mary Magdalena Meister, was 
born October 29, 1780. His early education 
was extremely limited, and consisted of a 
few months' attendance at the parochial 
school in the churchyard of the Reformed 
church at Lebanon. In May, 1801, he en- 
tered the store of Oves & Moore, and in 
March, 1805, removed to Harrisburg, where, 
in partnership with his former employers, tie 
established in that town the first exclusively 
hardware store. In 181 1 he purchased the 
interest of his partners and became the sole 
owner. In 1823, his health failing, he relin- 
quished business and disposed of it to two of 
the young men who had been in his employ. 
He continued, however, to reside in the house 
in which he first settled until his decease. 
Through all that period he manifested great 
interest in the welfare of his successors in 
business, and there was perhaps no year in 
which a portion of his capital was not to a 
greater or less extent used by them whenever 
they desired it. He was remarkable for 
punctuality and integrity. A close observer 
of human nature and a safe counselor, being 
ofte'n appealed to by his fellow-citizens, calm 
and modest in his demeanor, he was not to 
be swerved from his purposes when he felt 
that he was in the line of duty. His habits 
of industry and economy led to the acquisi- 
tion of a competency, and the latter half es- 
pecially of his long life was devoted in his 
own quiet and unobtrusive way to the 
amelioration of the condition of the poor, 
sick and friendless. In the vigor of man- 
hood he filled many minor positions in 
the community in which he lived, always 
rejecting political preferment. For several 
terms he was a member and president of the 
borough council ; was a director of the 
branch established by the Philadelphia 
Bank in Harrisburg, a director of the Har- 
risburg Bank, a director of the common 
schools when they were first established in 
Pennsylvania, and was read}' at all times to 
co-operate with his fellow-citizens in all the 
benevolent enterprises of the day. In the 
church of which he was a member (the Re- 



formed), he was prominent; presided at the 
meeting on November 17, 1820, to establish 
the first Sunday-school in connection with the 
church, and active in the measures adopted 
for erecting the church building yet standing. 
He died at Harrisburg on July 12, 1857, in the 
seventy-seventh year of his age. Mr. Kelker 
was twice married ; first to Lydia Chamber- 
lain, daughter of Charles Chamberlain, of 
Philadelphia; secondly to Catharine Fager, 
daughter of John and Sarah Fager, of Har- 
risburg. 



Cochran, William, was born in what is 
now Middle Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., in 1780. He received a good 
English education, and was brought up on 
his father's farm. In IS] 4 he served as a 
volunteer and marched to the defense of 
Baltimore. He served as coroner of the 
county from 1818 to 1821 ; member of the 
House of Representatives from 1820 to 1824; 
countv commissioner from 1830 to 1833, and 
sheriff from 1837 to 1839. He died at Har- 
risburg on Sunday, 26th of April, 1840, aged 
sixty years, and was interred in the family 
burying ground in Middle Paxtaug. The 
Intelligencer pays this tribute to his memory: 
" Mr. Cochran was a highly respected citi- 
zen, a popular officer, and a kind and hos- 
pitable neighbor." 



Beatty, George, youngest sou of Capt. 
James Beatty, was born January 4, 1781, at 
Ballykeel-Ednagonnel, county of Down, Ire- 
land. He received a good early education 
in the Latin school of John Downey, and 
learned watch and clock-making with his 
brother-in-law, Samuel Hill, whose clocks are 
more or less celebrated to this day. In 1808 
Mr. Beatty established himself in business, 
which he continued uninterruptedly for up- 
wards of forty j'ears. He was an ingenious 
mechanician and constructed several clocks 
of peculiar and rare invention. In 1814 he 
was orderly sergeant of Capt. Thomas Walker's 
company, the Harrisburg Volunteers, which 
marched to the defense of the city of Balti- 
more. Mr. Beatty in early life took a promi- 
nent part in local affairs, and, as a conse- 
quence, was frequently solicited to become a 
candidate for office, but he almost invariably 
declined. He, nevertheless, served a term as 
director of the poor, and also as county audi- 
tor. He was elected burgess of the borough 
on three several occasions and was a member 
of the town council several years, and, while 



206 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENCYCL OPED1A 



serving in the latter capacity was one of the 
prime movers in the effort to supply the 
borough with water. Had his suggestions, 
however, been carried out, the water-works 
and reservoir would have been located above 
the present city limits. Mr. Beatty retired 
from a successful business life about 1850. 
He died at Harrisburg on the 10th of March, 
1862, aged eighty-one years, and is interred 
in the Harrisburg cemetery. He was an 
active, enterprising and upright Christian 
gentleman. Mr. Beatty was thrice married; 
married, first, May 18, 1815, by Rev. George 
Loch man, D. D., Eliza White, daughter of 
William White, born January 20, 1797 ; died 
September 10, 1817. 

Mr. Beatty, married, secondly, November 
22, 1820, by Rev. George Lochman, D. D., 
Sarah Smith Shrom, daughter of Casper 
Shrom and Catharine Van Gundy, born Janu- 
ary 15, 1796, at York, Pa; died August 25, 
1828. 

Mr. Beatty manied, thirdly, September 21, 
1830, by Rev. Eliphalet Reed," Catharine 
Shrom, born December 26, 1807, at York, 
Pa.; died August 11,1891, at Harrisburg, Pa. 



Elizabeth Du Bois, of Huguenot extraction. 
She died August 16, 1828, and with her hus- 
band buried in the old cemetery at Dauphin. 



Gross,- Abraham, was born December 24, 
1781, in Montgomery county, Pa., and died 
August 25, 1S34, in Middle Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa. He was a son of John 
Gross and Rachel Sahler. His father, John 
Gross, was born in November, 1749, in Wes- 
tern Massachusetts, not far from the Hudson 
river, where his parents were early settlers 
from the Palatinate, being of Huguenot de- 
scent. On the eve of the Revolution John 
Gross removed to now Montgomery count)', 
Pa. He entered into the spirit of that con- 
test at the outset, and was commissioned 
first lieutenant January 5, 1776, in Col. Ar- 
thur St.'Clair's (Second Pennsylvania) bat- 
talion ; subsequently promoted a captain in 
the Third Pennsylvania at its organization, 
which was formed on the basis of the former, 
but with several of his colleagues in St. 
Clair's battalion seems never to have ac- 
cepted the position, or, if the)' did, declined 
it shortly after, especially upon the resigna- 
tion of Col. Joseph Wood in July, 1777. 
After the close of the war he removed with 
his family to now Middle Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., where he lived the re- 
mainder of his days, dying January 2, 1823. 
Mr. Gross married, about 1778, Rachel Sah- 
ler, born in 1756. in Ulster county, New 
York; daughter of Abraham Sahler and 



Ramsey, Thomas, was born near York, 
Pa., on the 15th of June, 1784. With a 
limited education acquired during his early 
years, he learned the trade of blacksmithing, 
at that period an important occupation. 
About 1806 he located at Hummelstown, 
Dauphin county, and there carried on busi- 
ness. In 1814 he was a corporal of Captain 
Moorhead's company of the First regiment, 
Colonel Kennedy, which marched to the 
defense of Baltimore. Mr. Ramsey died at 
Hummelstown on the 4th of May, 1826, at 
the age of forty-two years. He married 
Elizabeth Kelker, daughter of Henry Kelker 
and Elizabeth Greenawalt, of Lebanon, born 
September 8, 1791, and died at Harrisburg 
5th of February, 1858. Hon. Alexander 
Ramsey, former Secretary of War, is their 
son. Mr. Ramsey was an industrious, enter- 
prising citizen, patriotic, generous, and held 
in great esteem by his fellow-citizens. 



Catrell (Ketterell), William, was a 
native of the State of Maryland, where he 
was born in 1784. He learned the trade of 
shoemaker, and established himself in Har- 
risburg about 1805. During the war of 
1812-14 he served under General Pike in 
the Western Department. Subsequently he 
began merchandising, and successfully car- 
ried on business until the close of his 'life. 
March 23, 1835, he was appointed by Gov- 
ernor Ritner inspector of flour at Harris- 
burg, an office shortly after abolished. He 
served several years as a member of the bor- 
ough council of Harrisburg. He died at 
Harrisburg, April 7, 1848. He married, 
November 6, 1808, Letitia Wilson, sister of 
McNair Wilson, of Harrisburg, who sur- 
vived her husband only a few years. 
They left no issue. By his will Mr. Ca- 
trell left several bequests to the Zion 
Lutheran church, of which he was long an 
elder, one resulting in the founding of the 
Catrell library. His pastor, the Rev. Charles 
W. Schaeffer, D. D., late of Germantown, 
bears this noble testimony : " He was a man 
of very kindly, cheerful spirit, of pleasant 
manners, of good sound sense, and gener- 
ally well informed. As a business man he 
had been distinguished for his habits of 
order and diligence, and his sterling integ- 
rity of principle. His confession and main- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



207 



tenanoe of his religious faith was modest, 
though positive and earnest, and in the 
highest degree sincere. He stood very high 
in the regard of all who knew him, and was 
deeply lamented in his death." 



Hamilton, Hugh, the son of John Hamil- 
ton and Margaret Alexander, was born at 
" Fermanagh," now in Juniata county, Pa., 
on the 30th of June, 1785. He received a 
careful preparatory education, and with his 
brother John was sent to Dickinson College, 
where he graduated. He studied law under 
Thomas Elder, and was admitted to the 
Dauphin county bar in 1805. At the time 
of his admission to the bar Judge Henry had 
ordered the prothonotary to issue commis- 
sions on parchment. Accordingly the de- 
scendants of the young lawyer have his com- 
mission " on parchment," issued 21st of June, 
1805, signed by " Joshua Elder, Pro'thy, by 
order of the court," with the seal of the 
county attached. In 1808, Mr. Hamilton 
edited and published The Times at Lancaster, 
and upon the removal of the seat of govern- 
ment to Harrisburg, with William Gillmor, 
The Harrisburg Chronicle, the leading and 
influential newspaper at the State capital for 
twenty years. The Chronicle was the first 
paper in Pennsylvania which gave full and 
systematic legislative reports. He died at 
Harrisburg, on the 3d of September, 1836, 
aged fifty-one years. Mr. Hamilton married, 
Januar}^ 6, 1807, Rosanna, daughter of Adam 
Bovd and Jeannette MacFarlane, born De- 
cember 1, 1789, died April 17, 1872. They 
are both buried in the Harrisburg cemetery. 
Mr. Hamilton was a vigorous and polished 
writer, and his editorials were models of 
elegant composition. For a quarter of a 
century he wielded considerable political in- 
fluence through his newspaper. He was an 
active and enterprising citizen, twice chief 
burgess of the corporation of Harrisburg, 
frequently a member of council, and highly 
esteemed in social intercourse. 



Boas, Frederick, son of Rev. William 
Boas, was born at Reading, Pa., July 3, 1785. 
His parents were emigrants from Germany, 
and came over with the Muhlenbergs. 
Frederick learned the trade of a coppersmith 
and tin-plate worker at Reading, but com- 
menced business for himself at Kutztown. 
He came to Harrisburg in 1811, where he 
carried on his trade successfully. He was 
an enterprising citizen, and although quiet 



and unobtrusive, a representative man in 
the community. He died at Harrisburg, 
June 17, 1817, aged thirty-one years. Mr. 
Boas married, May 17, 1811, Elizabeth, 
daughter of David and Regina (Orth) 
Krause, who survived her husband many 
years, leaving two children: Frederick 
Krause and Elmina, who married William 
Jennings. 



Boas, Jacob, son of the Re v. William Boas, 
was born at Reading, Pa., in 1786. He was 
brought up to mercantile pursuits and came 
to Harrisburg in 1805, where he established 
himself in business. He served as a mem- 
ber of the borough council, and was com- 
missioned by Governor Snyder, February 6, 
1809, prothonotary and clerk of the Court of 
Quarter Sessions, and died while in office, on 
the 8th of October, 1815. Mr. Boas married 
Sarah, daughter of Jacob Dick, of Reading. 
They had five sons: William D., Jacob D., 
John, Augustus F., and Daniel D. 



Zimmerman, Henry, son of Peter and 
Mary (Beane) Zimmerman, was born Decem- 
ber 30, 1786, in Cumberland county, Pa. 
His boyhood days were passed among the 
scenes of farm life, familiar to the majority 
of farmer sons during that early period. 
Schools were then very little known of and 
less attended. The subject of this sketch is 
said to have spent only three months in all 
in what was then known as " pay school " or 
" select school." Upon reaching manhood 
he married Miss Barbara Griner, daughter of 
Philip and Barbara (Fishburn) Griner, who 
then resided on what is now known as the 
Newton Gray farm, in Lower Swatara town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa. Shortly after the 
marriage he moved near the home of his 
wife's parents, in Dauphin county, and set- 
tled upon a forty acre tract, adjoining that 
of her parents, which was giver, to her as 
her patrimony. He learned the trade of 
wagon making and pursued this business 
together with the farming of this small tract, 
and while living here there were born to 
them the following children : Rebecca, Julv 
8,1810; Catherine, October 13,1811 ; Philip. 
November 22, 1812: Elizabeth, September 
14, 1814; Henrv, May 16, 1S16 ; "George, 
February 11, 1819 : Simon. January 8,'1821 : 
Isaac, March 20, 1823; Mary, September 7, 
1824. On June 10, 1824, he purchased the 
farm known as t lie Kerr estate, adjoining 
this forty acre tract, and moved thereon with 



208 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCTCL OPEDIA 



his family in the spring of 1825, and lived 
in the historic Old Spring House, still stand- 
ing at the " fork " of two creeks. While liv- 
ing here there were born to them the follow- 
ing children: Solomon, October 7. 1527: 
Valentine. May 19, 1829 : and Maria, Janu- 
ary 19, 1831. Here he established himself 
permanently and laid the foundation of the 
estate that has remained in the Zimmerman 
line of descent for nearly a century. He 
was one of the sturdy Jacksonian Democrats 
of that day, and was a highly esteemed citi- 
zen in the community. He died March 12, 
1839, and lies buried beside the remains of 
his wife in the old graveyard on what is now 
called the Xewton Grav farm. 



Calder, Y\ illiam, eldest child of John 
Calder and Xaomi Xorris. w~as born in Belair. 
Harford county, Md., July 24, 17SS. The 
father was a native of Scotland. William 
remained on the farm of his parents in Har- 
ford county until he was of age, when he 
removed to Baltimore, and soon thereafter to 
Lancaster, Pa. When the seat of govern- 
ment was removed from Lancaster to Harris- 
burg he came to the latter place, and resided 
there up to the time of his death. In 1517 
he married Mary Kirkwood, who was born 
in Armagh, Ireland, of Scotch-Irish parents, 
and emigrated to this country when seven 
years of age. Their children were John. 
Mary, wife of Wells Coverly. William, 
Matilda, wife of Charles A. Keller, and 
James. His wife died in 1858, and in 1860 
he married Margaret C. Walmer, of Dauphin 
county, by whom he had no issue. He died 
March 5, 1861, and of his children none now 
survive. Immediately upon leaving Harford 
county, Mr. Calder became interested in lines 
of stage-coaches and the United States mail 
service, and for fifty years this was his chief 
business. Up to the time of the sale of the 
public works of Pennsylvania he was asso- 
ciated with Alexander Wilson, of Lewistown. 
Jacob Peters, of Philadelphia, Silas Moore, of 
Hollidaysburg, and other gentlemen in the 
"Pioneer," "Good Intent." and "Express" 
companies for the transportation of passen- 
gers and mails by cars and canal packet- 
boats. He never lost his fondness for farm- 
ing and live-stock, and maintained several 
of the most fertile farms in Dauphin county. 
Enterprises for the development of the re- 
sources of the country and particularly the 
business of Harrisburg received his support. 
He built manv houses, favored the introduc- 



tion of manufactures, and at the time of his 
death possessed an ample fortune. 

Wallace, Joseph, son of James Wallace 
and his wife Rachel Elder, was born in Pax- 
tang, March 29, 1786, and died February 22. 
1867. at Harrisburg. His mother was a niece 
of Rev. John Elder. Mr. Wallace received a 
good English education, and about the year 
1809 or 1810, we find htm the manager of 
Xew Market Forge, Lebanon county, for John 
Elder, subsequently employed at Hope Fur- 
nace, in Lancaster county. He removed to 
Harrisburg prior to 1812, and with Joshua 
Elder entered into mercantile life: afterwards 
in business alone for many years. In the 
war of 1812-14 he volunteered with the Har- 
risburg artillerists and marched as far as 
York. He served in the Harrisburg borough 
council and was treasurer a long term of 
years. He was quite prominent as an Anti- 
Mason, having been chairman of the State 
committee during the Ritner campaign, and 
afterwards appointed deputy secretary of the 
Commonwealth under that administration. 
For many years he was secretary and treas- 
urer of the Harrisburg Bridge Company, of 
the Middletown Turnpike Company and 
Peter"s Mountain Turnpike Company. He 
was a gentleman of high moral character aud 
worth, greatly esteemed in the community, 
and ever enjoyed their confidence and re- 
spect. Mr. Wallace married, May 28, 1816, 
Sarah Evans Cummins, born January 16, 
17^7. in Chester county, Pa.: died August 21, 
155S, at Harrisburg, Pa., and with her hus- 
band there buried. 



Shuxk, Gov. Frances Raws, the son of 
John Shunk and Elizabeth Rawn, was born 
August 7, 1788, at the Trappe, Montgomery 
county, Pa. His father was the son of Fran- 
cis Shunk, who emigrated to America from 
the Palatinate, on the Rhine, in Germany, 
about the year 1715. His mother was the 
daughter of Casper and Barbara Rawn, also 
emigrants from the Palatinate. The mother 
of Francis Rawn Shunk was a woman dis- 
tinguished for her kindness and affection, 
and the son ever spoke of her in terms of the 
most devoted attachment, aud cherished her 
memory with filial piety. Her influence no 
doubt was greatly felt in the formation of 
his early character and its subsequent de- 
velopment His father was a man of strong 
and stern mind, yet naturally facetious, and 
fond of indulging in this propensity. 



f> AC PHIS' COUNTY. 



209 



The parents of Francis R. were not able 
to furnish the mean - - - 

cure in the ordinary way even the rudi- 
ments of an education. Much of his child- 
hood and youth w - red to manual 
labor. At the earl g .. he became 
a teacher, and soon after the instructor of 
the school at the village where he was born. 
From that time until 1812 - ems to have 
been employed as a teacher during the I 
months of the year the school con tin v. 
and the rest of the time as a laborer in the 
pursuits of agriculture. The intervals of 
toil were devoted to the improvement of his 
mind in every useful branch of study. In 
1812 he was selected by Andrew Porter, then 
surveyor geueral under the administration 
of Governor Snyder, to fill a clerkship in his 
department. While thus employed he com- 
menced and prosecuted the study of the law 
with Thomas Eider, of Harrisburg. In 1S14 
he marched as a private, with many of his 
fellow-townsmen, to the defense : : Baltimore. 
Soon after he was chosen fir? - .at. and 
then the principal clerk of the House of 
Representatives, and for many years | 
formed with great fidelity the arduous duties 
of that office. He was subsequently elected 
secretary of the board of canal commis- 
sioners, and served in that capacity during 
a period when the condition of our public 
improvements called for the most cons" 
and strenuous efforts on t : of the com- 
missioners, and rendered the situation of 
their secretary anything but a sinecure. In 
1- 3 he \ - - governor Porter sec- 
retary of State. On retiring from that office 
he removed to Pittsburg, and engaged in the 
practice of the law. In lS-ii he was called 
from his retirement by tb of the 
people of the Commonwealth to fill the 
highest office in their gift. He so conducted 
his administration as their chief exeeu". 
that he received from them the highest ex- 
pression of their confidence and regard by 
being re-elected with an increased majority, 
and that. tuo. against an opposing candidate 
of the most estimable character, whose ex- 
alted virtues and worth were acknowledged 
by all. 

But he had scarcely entered upon the 
duties of his second term before he became 
the victim of a disease which in its early pro- 
gress excited apprehensions in the minds of 
his friends that it might pi The 

Governor himself, though conscious that his 
disease was deei -s - emed to cherish 



with confidence the hope that the vigor of 
his constitution and the skill of his physician 
would eventually restore him to health. I: 
was not until the morning of the 9th of 
- - ~hen a se I copious hemor- 

rhage from the lungs took pi I he gave 

up entirely the hope of life and felt that his 
days were indeed numbered. Upon that 
day. being Sunday, he wrote a letter of 
. - _:iation — the last public act of his I 

His professional attainments, especially in 
the more abstract principles of law. w 
large, and as a counselor he had few superiors. 
But he shrunk from the personal collision 
its practice in the courts involved, and 
tired from the bar to engage in employments 
and studies more congenial with his taste. 

His administration as the chief magistrate 
of this Commonwealth shows that he was no 
novice in the great and fundamental princi- 
ples of government. His state papers indi- 
that he had deeply studied the ques- 
tions of policy involving the great interests 
of this Commonwealth and the country at 
large, that he had looked at their remote - 
well as immediate consequences, and con- 
templated their influence on the prog: -- 
and advancement of the entire community 
under the fostering care of our free institu- 
tions as well as their adaptation to the mere 
accumulation of gain. The opinions which 
these papers contain commend themselves to 
our attention, not only for the candor with 
which they are expressed, but for the reasons 
by which they are sustained. 

Our common school system had a deep 
hold on the affections of his heart. He 
knew it had many imperfections, particu- 
lar!" ■- if as carried iuto operation in some 
of the rural districts : he knew it was not 
accomplishing all that was desirable, but he 
believed it would yet work its way into the 
confidence of the people, and be itself the 
most efficient means of curing many of 
defects. He rejoiced in the good it had 
effected, and with a generous enthusiasm 
exulted in the good it would effect. 

We should do signal injustice to the char- 
acter of Governor Shunk and omit one of 
the most important elements of his suce -- 
in life if we did not refer to his moral as 
well as intellectual culture. He was a sin- 
cere, honest, upright man. pure in his pri- 
morals. and no less so in his public 
character. The political principles and pol 
icy avowed in his sta! - were sincerely 

entertained. Thev were not set forth, as 



210 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



some who knew him not and did not agree 
with him may erroneously suppose, to please 
the popular taste. He never courted popu- 
lar favor at the expense of sincerity and 
truth. The proverbial honesty of Governor 
Shrink was one principal cause of his popu- 
larity, both in public and private life. There 
were multitudes who did not properly esti- 
mate his intellectual worth, who did not 
adopt many of his political views, or did not 
belong to his political party, who yet be- 
lieved him to be an. honest, upright man in 
whom they could confide, and on that ac- 
count gave him their support. 

Simonton, William, son of Dr. William 
Simonton and his wife Jean Wiggins, was 
born in 1788, in Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., and died May 17, 1846, in Han- 
over. At the death of his father he was 
only twelve years of age. His early educa- 
tion was received under the direction of his 
mother, and consisted of the branches usu- 
ally taught in the country schools of that 
period. As he was inclined to the medical 
profession, he studied Latin under the tui- 
tion of the Rev. James R. Sharon, pastor of 
Derry and Paxtang churches. After the 
usual preliminary instruction under a pri- 
vate preceptor, he studied medicine with Dr. 
Samuel Meyrick, of Middletown, afterwards 
attending lectures of the Medical Depart- 
ment, University of Pennsylvania, in Phila- 
delphia, from which he received the degree 
of M. D. In the distribution of property re- 
sulting from his father's death, the farm 
"Antigua " was equally divided between him 
and his brother, John W. Simonton. The 
latter occupied the homestead until his death 
in 1824, which occurred a few days previous 
to the death of his mother. After the erec- 
tion of the necessary buildings in 1818, he 
took possession of his new home, where the 
remainder of his life was spent. While his 
time was devoted to the practice of medicine, 
the farming operations were carried on under 
his superintendence. He always took an 
interest in political affairs, and was accus- 
tomed to act with the Whigs in opposition 
to the Democrats, who had retained posses- 
sion of the National Government from the 
election of Andrew Jackson in 1824. He was 
elected county auditor in 1823, serving three 
years, and in 1838 he was nominated as a 
candidate for Congress from the district 
then composed of the counties of Dauphin 
and Lebanon, and was elected by a large ma- 



jority. He was re-elected in 1840. During 
the extra session of Congress, held in the 
summer of 1841, Dr. Simonton's health 
gave way. Having been accustomed to an 
active life and to exercise on horseback, 
strict attention to public business, with con- 
finement to the atmosphere of Washington 
during the heated term, so prostrated him 
physically that he was unable to attend re- 
gularly upon the sessions of 1842 and 1843. 
He never fully recovered his health, though 
he resumed his medical practice, which was 
continued nearly three years after the close 
of his congressional career. In person Dr. 
Simonton was five feet eleven inches in 
height, of good presence and proportions, 
with regular features and very black hair, 
which retained its color to the last. He was 
a modest, diffident man, but of a genial and 
friendly disposition. For some years pre- 
vious to lv.s death he was an elder of old 
Derry church, and while in Washington a 
member of the Congressional prayer-meet- 
ing. He was a decided Presbyterian in his 
faith, and ever took a deep interest in the 
affairs of the denomination to which he be- 
longed. He was a strict observer of the 
Sabbath and of the services of the sanctuary. 
He maintained family worship, and was 
careful to give his children a religious train- 
ing. He acquired a good reputation as a 
physician, and for many years had an ex- 
tensive country practice. Dr. Simonton mar- 
ried Martha Davis Snodgrass, born 1790 ; 
died April, 1862; daughter of Rev. James 
Snodgrass, of Hanover. 



Porter, Gov. David Rittenhouse, the 
son of Andrew Porter, was born October 31, 
1788, near Norristown, Montgomery county, 
Pa. He received his early education at an 
academy in Norristown, where the branches 
of a good English education, mathematics 
and the elementary classical studies, were 
successfully taught. With his brothers 
George and James, he was here pursuing a 
course preparatory to entering Princeton 
College, when the buildings of that institu- 
tion were destroyed by fire, and the purpose 
of a collegiate course was abandoned. When 
the father was appointed surveyor general 
he took his son David with him to the seat 
of government as his assistant. While thus 
employed the son also studied law, with the 
intention of entering upon its practice at 
Harrisburg, but the labor and confinement 
of these double duties were too severe, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



211 



his health was so much impaired, as was 
thought, to preclude the possibility of his 
pursuing any sedentary employment. He 
decided, therefore, to seek more active occu- 
pation, and removed to the county of Hunt- 
ingdon, where he engaged in the manufac- 
ture of iron. 

The Messrs. Dorsey then owned that mag- 
nificent estate known as the Barree Forges. 
Mr. Porter was first employed by them for a 
year as a clerk, and during the following 
year was made manager of their works. 
Having thus acquired an acquaintance with 
the business, he embarked in it on his own 
account, in partnership with Edward Patton, 
on Spruce creek, but so great was the depres- 
sion into which all branches of manufactures 
fell for some years succeeding the war of 
1812 that their enterprise was not successful. 
He continued, however, through life to take 
a deep interest in all that related to the 
business. 

He was in 1819 elected a member of the 
Assembly from Huntingdon county, and was 
returned for the following year, having as a 
colleague John Scott, father of the present 
senator of the United States. 

On retiring from the Legislature he was 
appointed by the governor prothonotary and 
clerk of the several courts of Huntingdon 
county, and to these were afterwards added 
the offices of recorder of deeds and register of 
wills. There was then little business in these 
offices, and the pecuniary returns were mea- 
ger. He had in 1820 married Josephine, 
daughter of "William McDermott, who had 
emigrated from Scotland for the purpose of 
manufacturing steel by a new process and 
who was one of the pioneers in that art. 

In 1836 he was elected a member of the 
State Senate from the district then composed 
of the counties of Huntingdon, Mifflin, Juni- 
ata, Perry and Union. The soundness of his 
judgment and the readiness of his under- 
standing made him an acknowledged leader. 

In 1838 Mr. Porter was elected governor 
of Pennsylvania, and in 1841 was re-elected 
by a majority almost four times as great as 
that given at his first election. His inaugu- 
ration as governor occurred on the loth of 
January, 1839. 

Governor Porter took much interest in the 
success of the system of common schools then 
in its infancy, and having appointed Francis 
R. Shunk superintendent, devoted with him 
much time in resolving the numerous and 



difficult questions which then came up from 
the county officers for decision. 

His efforts to sustain the credit of the State 
and to secure the payment of interest on the 
public debt drew upon him national atten- 
tion, and were frequently noticed in Europe, 
where many of the obligations of the State 
were held. By his recommendation the act 
of 1840 was passed, requiring the interest on 
the State debt to be paid in specie or its 
equivalent. One of his last acts as governor 
was the suppression of the riots which occur- 
red in Philadelphia in 1844, and the courage 
and decision displayed on his taking com- 
mand of the military in person were generally 
commended and long remembered by men of 
all parties. Both branches of the city coun- 
cil, then opposed to his administration, hon- 
ored him with an expression of their thanks, 
and a resolution unanimously passed by 
those bodies was presented to him in person, 
accompanied with an address by the mayor 
of the city. 

Having completed, in 1845, the longest 
term as governor allowed by the new Consti- 
tution, he retired from public life and re- 
turned to his favorite pursuit of making iron. 
The adaptation of anthracite coal to the 
manufacture of this metal was then almost 
unknown, and having given much reflection 
to the subject and made many practical 
experiments, he erected at Harrisburg, at a 
large cost, the first anthracite furnace built 
in that portion of the State. 

He was for many years the friend of the 
late President Buchanan, and the correspon- 
dence which they maintained for a long 
period shows how frequently that statesman 
consulted him on questions of national in- 
terest and how greatly he relied upon his 
judgment. 

There was another public man with whom 
his intimacy was even closer, Gen. Sam. 
Houston, of Texas, whose career as a military 
commander,an executive officer, and effective 
orator is yet fresh in the public recollection. 
Mr. Porter returned to his home in Harris- 
burg and contributed his influence to sustain 
the government in the fierce conflict which 
had commenced. He scouted the doctrine 
of secession. To encourage others he should- 
ered his musket at the age of more than 
seventy years, and with the young men of 
the town joined in military drill. He re- 
joiced greatly over the success of the Union 
arms. 
During the winter of 1867, while attend- 



212 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ing at night a meeting of his church, he con- 
tracted a severe cold. While others regarded 
the attack as light, he believed that it would 
prove fatal and began to prepare for the 
approaching change. During the succeeding 
summer he was able to walk out, but in the 
beginning of August his strength declined. 
With great composure and even cheerfulness 
he arranged several matters of business and 
conversed calmly of his approaching end. 
On the 6th of August, surrounded by several 
children and a devoted wife, his hands hav- 
ing been folded on his breast, he thanked 
those about him for their kindness and duti- 
fulness and composed himself as if to fall 
asleep. As one and another passage of 
Scripture was repeated he expressed his as- 
sent, until the pulse became still and the 
aged heart ceased to beat. He had passed 
away as gently as a child falls to sleep in its 
mother's arms. The public business was, at 
the request of the governor of the Common- 
wealth, generally suspended. Large num- 
bers of citizens came from every section of 
the State to pay to his memory the last sad 
tribute of their respect. 

Ayrks, William, son of John Ayres and 
Jane Lytle, of Scotch-Irish ancestry, was 
born December 14, 1788, at the eastern base 
of Peter's mountain, Dauphin county, where 
his grandfather (whose name he bore) had 
settled in October, 1773. The locality is 
noted as the commencement of the old road 
over the mountain. William was endowed 
with rare native energy and unfailing per- 
severance, but his opportunities for educa- 
tional improvement were meager indeed ; he 
was indeed self-educated. His first venture, 
apart from the business of his father's farm, 
was an engagement with James S. Espy, 
merchant at Harrisburg, in 1816. During 
his two years' residence there he married 
Mary Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Hon. 
Jacob Bucher, May 6, 1817. 

The next year he was induced to return 
to Peter's mountain, where he kept the hotel 
at the crossing, assisted in conducting the 
farm, and became justice of the peace Decem- 
ber 13, 1819. He was elected major Second 
battalion of the Sixteenth regiment, and com- 
missioned February 22, 1822. 

Looking forward, however, to making the 
law his profession, he removed to Harrisburg 
in 1824, and resided along the river, just 
above the town. Here he acted as a justice 
both for the borough of Harrisburg and for 



Lower Paxtang and Susquehanna townships ; 
while at the same time he pursued his legal 
studies under Samuel Douglas, Esq., an 
eminent member of the Dauphin bar. 

He was admitted to practice May 3, 1826, 
and his private docket shows him to have 
been successful from the start. He had a 
very large acquaintance in the " Upper End," 
was able to speak German, and otherwise 
possessed many qualifications then valued 
and essential to practice with profit. The 
celebrated McElhenny murder case, in which 
he saved his client from the gallows, gave 
him a marked prominence. 

He was also attorney for various officers 
of the county, turnpike companies, etc. 

He was elected to the Legislature in 1833- 
34, and again for the session of 1834-35. 
During this time he was the coadjutor of 
Thaddeus Stevens in his great conflict against 
the powers of darkness and ignorance for 
the establishment of the common school 
system of 1834. The friendship of Ayres 
and Stevens here begun lasted through life. 

In 1839 William Ayres was elected to the 
town council, and the circumstance proved 
a fortunate one for Harrisburg. He at once 
brought his great energies to bear on a pro- 
ject for the introduction of Susquehanna 
water into the borough. The idea seemed 
so premature that it was deemed fanciful aud 
impracticable. Nevertheless, he alone was 
the means of its accomplishment, which he 
did by borrowing funds from the United 
States Bank, of which he was then a 
director. Harrisburg received water in 
seven months' time from breaking ground, 
and this despite of much opposition from the 
old fogies. 

His directorship in the United States Bank 
(at Philadelphia) was at the invitation of 
the famous Nicholas Biddle, who presented 
him with stock and had him elected ; hav- 
ing selected him as " a country gentleman 
to complete the board of directors." 

Having thus embarked in pubic enter- 
prise, even to the great sacrifice of his legal 
practice, he next sought to obtain a free 
bridge over the river, but he could not ob- 
tain sufficient aid in subscriptions to buy 
out the old. company. He was mainly in- 
strumental in getting up the new prison to 
replace the old jail. 

He was an active supporter of General 
Harrison for President, and the Harrison 
letters, still preserved, show that William 
Ayres was his confidential friend at the cap- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



213 



ital of Pennsylvania. He had been also the 
advocate of Governor Ritner, whose confi- 
dential correspondence is also preserved. 

The successful introduction of water en- 
couraged him to attempt the formation of a 
gas company at Harrisburg, and having ob- 
tained an act of incorporation he went vig- 
orously to work, as was always his way, and 
Harrisburg was lighted with gas. 

The incorporation of the Pennsylvania 
railroad, about 1846, was a project in which 
he was much interested, and he gave his 
time and services on the " Hill " gratuitously. 

By this time there was not a man in Cen- 
tral Pennsylvania more widely known for 
his spirit, energy and capacity in matters of 
public improvement. As a result he was en- 
gaged by the citizens of Huntingdon to lead 
a project in their coal region — the Hunting- 
don and Broad Top railroad. After securing 
the necessary legislation he was elected pres- 
ident January 10, 1853. He was obliged to 
spend so much of his time at Huntingdon 
that he could only give the road a good start, 
but he left his completion to others. He re- 
liriguished his position with honor, the com- 
pany voluntarily presenting him two thou- 
sand dollars in cash and stock. 

He immediately took up a more convenient 
enterprise, the Harrisburg and Hamburg- 
railroad, a rival line to the Lebanon Valley 
railroad. He became president of the com- 
pany, obtained subscriptions and had the 
route surveyed, with the intention of begin- 
ning active operations in the spring of 1856. 
The winter of 1855-56 was devoted to office 
work by the engineers at Jonestown. 

But William Ayres' iron constitution was 
crumbling by the insidious action of heart 
disease. He was unable to give his own ac- 
tive duty or instill his own energy into others, 
and the railroad languished just when it 
should have progressed. 

Mr. Ayres died, after some months' illness, 
May 26, 1856. His fellow-citizens united 
with his associates of the bar in attesting the 
loss of one in whom the capital of Pennsyl- 
vania found her most enterprising citizen, 
ever ready to sacrifice for the public good, 
and one who, having many opportunities to 
have made himself rich, could never be 
tempted or bribed, proved unflinchingly 
honest and died poor. 

Forster, John Montgomery, son of Col. 
Thomas Forster and his wife Sarah Pettit 
Montgomery, was born June 21, 1780, in 



Paxtang ; d. September 21, 1858, at Harris- 
burg, Pa. He passed his youth partly at 
Harrisburg and partly at Erie, where his 
father removed about 1799. He studied law 
with his uncle, Samuel Laird, at Harrisburg, 
and was admitted to the bar of Dauphin 
count)', at May term, 1814. He marched 
with the volunteers from this section of the 
State to Baltimore, in 1814, and was elected 
or appointed brigade major of the brigade 
commanded by his uncle, Gen. John Forster. 
After his return, he practiced law at Harris- 
burg, and was deputy attorney general for 
the counties of Dauphin and Lebanon, un- 
der the administration of Governor Hiester, 
Thomas Elder being attorney general. Upon 
the occasion of General Lafayette's visit to 
Harrisburg, he commanded the military. He 
was president of the Branch Bank of Penn- 
sylvania at Harrisburg, until it was discon- 
tinued. He represented this judicial district 
in the first Board of Revenue Commissioners, 
convened in 1844, to equalize taxation be- 
tween the several counties of the State, and 
was elected secretary of the board at the 
session of 1847 and 1850. In 1846 he was 
commissioned by Governor Shunk as presi- 
dent judge of the counties of Chester and 
Delaware, and served for several months in 
this capacity. Major Forster married Jen- 
nette Wright, born 1790, in Paterson, N. J.; 
died July 30, 1880, at Harrisburg, Pa., 
daughter of John Wright and Rose Cham- 
bers. 



Albright, Mrs. Frances, daughter of 
Charles Gemberling, was born about 1789. 
Her father came to Harrisburg about 1793 
and established himself in business. Frances 
received an excellent education and on Jul}' 
20, 1809, married Lieut. Jacob W. Albright, 
of the U. S. army, who was then in the re- 
cruiting service at Harrisburg. Lieutenant 
Albright was appointed from Pennsylvania 
ensign of the First Infantry March 6, 1806; 
promoted second lieutenant November, 1807; 
first lieutenant August 26, 1812 ; district 
paymaster September 4, 1813; disbanded 
June 15, 1815 ; appointed paymaster Second 
Infantry July 9, 1816; resigned May 13, 
1823. He died at Erie about 1830. After 
the death of her husband. Mrs. Albright 
began teaching school, and until the estab- 
lishment of the common school system was 
quite successful. Subsequently she received 
the appointment of teacher in one of the 
public schools, where she remained until her 



214 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



advanced years compelled her to resign. 
Mrs. Albright was a conscientious and faith- 
ful teacher, and the writer of this brief 
sketch holds her memory in reverence as 
being his first tutor. Besides this, she was 
a strict Presbyterian of the old school, ex- 
emplary in her faith and belief. She died 
at Harrisburg, October 13, 1862, aged about 
seventy-three years. 

Hays, Samuel Wallace, was born Octo- 
ber 30, 1790, at Newville, Cumberland 
county, Pa.; died May 18, 1855, at Harris- 
burg, Pa. He received the education so 
freely given by the Scotch-Irish to their 
children. He came to Harrisburg in 1821, 
where he resided until 1825, when he went 
to Philadelphia, returning to the former 
place in 1828, which from that period be- 
came his permanent home. Mr. Hays then 
began business, which he successfully carried 
on until a few years prior to his death. He 
was an earnest, laborious worker in his 
church (Presbyterian), of which he was one 
of the ruling elders from 1840 to his decease. 
For a period of twenty -seven years he was 
superintendent of the first infant Sunday- 
school, which he organized in 1828, in Har- 
risburg, and only relinquished its care when 
failing health compelled him to give up his 
charge. The Rev. Dr. Robinson bears this 
testimony of him : " I remember him as a 
quiet, modest man and patient sufferer. The 
little I knew of him endeared him to me. 
... He was a warm friend and lover of 
the young, kind and genial in his intercourse 
with them, and an admirable teacher." Mr. 
Hays married, September 2, 1834, Margaret 
Rebecca Moore, born August 7, 1806 ; died 
February 8, 1851, at Harrisburg, Pa.; daugh- 
ter of Archibald Moore and Rebecca Junkin, 
of Locust Grove, Mifflin county, Pa. 



Bell, William, was born at Jaysburg, 
Pa., in 1790. His education was limited, and 
was in early life, owing to the accidental 
death of his father by drowning, apprenticed 
to the trade of a carpenter. He came to 
Harrisburg during the erection of the capitol, 
and was employed by Mr. Hills until its com- 
pletion. He carried on the business until 
1829, when he established a grocery, which 
he conducted until his death. He served 
frequently as a member of the borough 
council, and took a deep interest in the 
prosperity of his adopted home. He died at 
Harrisburg, on the 20th of May, 1847, aged 



fifty-seven years. Mr. Bell married, in 1819, 
Elizabeth Hutman, daughter of Matthias and 
Catharine Hutman ; born in 1792; died Feb- 
ruary 28, 1868, at Harrisburg. Their children 
were Catharine, George, William, Maria, 
married Edward Curzon,Ann, and Elizabeth. 



Awl, Jacob Michael, son of Jacob Awl 
and Sarah Stroh, was born February 24, 
1792, in Paxtang. He was a grandson of 
the preceding early settler. His father dying 
in his infancy, he was raised on the farm of 
his maternal grandfather, Michael Stroh. In 
early life he settled in Harrisburg, where he 
spent the remainder of his days, dying 
there on the 5th of September 1849 ; was 
long a leading member of the Methodist 
church ; at the time of his death the Demo- 
cratic Union said he was "a gentleman of 
the purest piety and strictest integrity in all 
his intercourse with his fellow men ;" while 
the Keystone stated that "no man enjoyed in 
a higher degree the confidence and respect 
of the community" — that " his life had been 
a continual exemplification of what the walk 
and conversation of a Christian should be." 
Mr. Awl served as a solder in the war of 
1812-14. He married, April 27, 1824, Fanny 
Horning, born February 17, 1803; died July 
12, 1869, at Harrisburg. 



Stewart, David, born October 30, 1792, in 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, and 
died May 29, 1869, at Coleraine Forges, Hunt- 
ingdon county, Pa.; buried in the Spruce 
Creek ceinetery at Graysville. He was twenty- 
one years of age at the time of the exodus of 
the family from Hanover to Centre county in 
1813. He became the general manager at 
Pennsylvania Furnace, and subsequently 
entered the firm under the title of Shorb, 
Stewart & Co., which was synonymous with 
that of Lyon, Shorb & Co., Pittsburgh, manu- 
facturers of the famed Juniata iron. Mr. 
Stewart was, undoubtedly, the most promi- 
nent and wealthy member of this large family ; 
resided at Coleraine Forges, Huntingdon 
county, from 1831 until his death. His 
house was noted for its elegant and liberal 
hospitality. In person he was large and im- 
posing, showing traits of his Scotch ancestry, 
and was the last of his father's family, a long 
lived race, and it may be noted that from the 
birth of his eldest brother, Robert, to the date 
of his own death, embraced a period of nearly 
one hundred years. He married, May 22, 
1822,Sarah Walker, daughter of John Walker 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



217 



and Ann, his wife, of Alexandria, Hunting- 
don county, Pa., originally from county Stra- 
bane in the north of Ireland. She was born 
September 23, 1799, and died at Coleraine 
Forges, April 24, 1874, having survived her 
husband, by whose side she now lies buried. 



Bucher, John Conrad, was born Decem- 
ber 28, 1792; died October 26, 1851. In 
early life was engaged in merchandising; 
in 1830 elected to represent Dauphin and 
Lebanon counties in the Twenty-second 
Congress of the United States ; appointed 
by Governor Porter, in 1839, an associate 
judge of the courts of Dauphin county, 
which office he held for twelve years. 
He was a man of enlarged views and of 
public spirit, unsullied reputation and un- 
impeachable integrity, engaged in all the 
public enterprises of his day, and held 
various positions of honor and responsi- 
bility. Many years a school director and 
president of the board of education of his 
native city, Harrisburg. A member and an 
officer of the German Reformed congregation 
at home, he was one of the leading laymen 
in the ecclesiastical councils of the church ; 
treasurer of one of its boards and of its theo- 
logical seminary. Judge Bucher married, 
January 17, 1820, Ellen Isett, daughter of 
Jacob Isett, of Huntingdon county, Pa. ; 
born September 10, 1797 ; died March 6, 
18S1 ; both buried in Harrisburg cemetery, 
of which he was one of the founders. 



Holman, Samuel, son of Conrad Holman, 
Jr., and Rachel Guss, was born in Chester 
county, Pa., January 11, 1793. Conrad Hol- 
man, Sr., the grandfather, was born in New 
Castle county, Del., in 1738, and died at the 
residence of his son in Perry count}', Pa., in 
1822. Conrad, Jr., born in Chester county in 
1768, died in Perry county in 1841 ; he mar- 
ried Rachel, daughter of Charles Guss and 
Mary Shunk. Samuel learned the trade of 
house carpenter, and came to Harrisburg 
after his majority, where he successfully pur- 
sued his business and was widely known as 
a builder and architect. Among the public 
works constructed under his supervision and 
according to plans were bridges over the Sus- 
quehanna at Clark's Ferry and Harrisburg, 
and over the Schuylkill river at Schuylkill 
Falls. He was the architect for the court 
houses at Lewistown and Harrisburg. For 
several years he was supervisor of the public 
works between Columbia and Millerstown. 
iS 



He was a man of much energy of char- 
acter in whatever business lie engaged. Dur- 
ing the war of 1S12-14 he went as fifer in 
Captain Walker's company, which marched 
to the defense of Baltimore, and in his old 
age served as a volunteer for the defense of 
Harrisburg when, in 1863, it was threatened 
by General Lee. He frequently was a mem- 
ber of the borough council, and took a deep 
interest in the prosperity of his adopted 
town. He died at Harrisburg September 28, 
1863. Mr. Holman married, in 1822, Sarah, 
daughter of Daniel Hertz and Elizabeth Eis- 
ner; born at Harrisburg, December 5, 1800, 
and there died October 22, 1863. They had 
fivechildren living at the time of their death : 
Ann Elizabeth, married Samuel Alleman, 
Rev.Samuel Augustus, William Simon, Mary 
Ellen, married Dr. A. L. Alstead, and Sarah 
Frances, married George A. Klugh. 



Cameron, John, son of Charles Cameron 
and Martha Pfoutz, was born February 8, 
1797, in the village of Maytown, Lancaster 
county, Pa. He received the ordinary edu- 
cation of the public schools of the town, and 
at an early age apprenticed to the trade of a 
tailor. He came to Harrisburg in 1816, 
where he started in business. Governor 
Shulze appointed him register and recorder 
of the county of Dauphin, January 17, 1824. 
He was frequently chosen member of the 
borough council of Harrisburg. He subse- 
quently engaged in merchandizing, dealt 
largely in cattle, and became interested in 
the through stage lines. In 1837 he re- 
moved to Lancaster, retired from business, 
and died there May 7, 1841 ; buried at Har- 
risburg. Mr. Cameron was twice married — 
first, to Catharine Hutman, daughter of 
Matthias Hutman, of Harrisburg, born Sep- 
tember 1, 1796, died November 1, 1821 ; sec- 
ondly, to Mary Shulze, of Myerstown, Leb- 
anon county, a sister of Gov. John Andrew 
Shulze. He left a son and a daughter ; the 
former died early, the latter became the wife 
of Dr. Muhlenberg, of Lancaster. Mr. Cam- 
eron was quiet and unobtrusive, an intelli- 
gent and enterprising business man. 



Herr, Col. Daniel, was born on the 14th 
of December, 1795, at Hagerstown, Md. His 
ancestors were among the first settlers in 
Lancaster county, Pa., from whence the 
family name has become wide-spread. 
Daniel learned the trade of a house carpenter, 



218 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENCTCL OPEDIA 



an occupation he pursued several years. 
During the last war with Great Britain he 
was lieutenant colonel of a volunteer regi- 
ment in active service. In later life he fol- 
lowed hotelkeeping. He kept the Tremont 
House at Philadelphia, the Mansion House 
at Reading, and that famous hostelry, Herr's 
Hotel, now the Lochiel, at Harrisburg. He 
was a prominent member of the Masonic 
fraternity, and during the Anti-Masonic 
crusade never swerved from his allegiance 
to the fraternity, being master of his lodge 
from 1835 to 1838, inclusive. He was a man 
pure in purpose, amiable, kind, and generous 
hearted, yet firm and decided as to opinions 
and duty. He died at Harrisburg, sincerely 
regretted, on the 11th of July, 1857, in his 
sixty-second year. Colonel Herr married, 
February 15, 1820, in Gettysburg, Pa., Sarah 
Gilbert, daughter of Boise Gilbert and 
Susanna Fox, born February 14, 1801, and 
died April 13, 1880, at Harrisburg. Their 
children were George Isaiah, d. s. p. ; John 
Davenport, married Jane Nancy Sutton ; 
Margaret Ann, married, first, Peter Nagle 
Coleman, second, George Leonard; Amelia 
Matilda, married John Peter Hassler; An- 
drew Jackson ; Jacob Gilbert, married Mary 
Taylor ; Susanna, married Dr. Jacob G. 
Wkstling; Sarah Isabella, married George 
Z. Kunkel; Daniel B.; William Henry Har- 
rison, d. s. p.; Mary Elizabeth, married 
Charles Lipps ; Louisa Irene, married Charles 
A. Bannvart. 



Burke, Michael, was born on the 29th of 
September, 1797, in Templetrathen, county 
Tipperary, Ireland. Having received a lib- 
eral education, he left his native land in his 
eighteenth year for Newfoundland, where an 
uncle was extensively engaged in the fish- 
eries off that coast. There he remained 
only a brief period, being eager to reach the 
United States. His first destination was Lock- 
port, N. Y., where he secured a position as 
bookkeeper for a prominent contractor. He 
here gained his first idea of a business which 
he subsequently successfully followed. In 
1824 he secured a contract on the Erie canal, 
and upon its completion went to Akron, 0., 
to construct a section of the canal at that 
place. From thence he came to Pennsylva- 
nia, that State being largely engaged in per- 
fecting her S3'stem of internal improvements, 
and a wide field for Mr. Burke's business 
energies was open before him. Securing the 



contract for that portion of the Juniata di- 
vision of the Pennsylvania canal between 
Mexico and Lewistown in 1829, he fixed his 
permanent home at Harrisburg. Identify- 
ing himself with the business and welfare of 
the town of his adoption, he was chosen to 
the borough council, and in the establish- 
ment of the first system of water works took 
an active and warm interest. During a por- 
tion of this period he was president of the 
legislative body of the town, and on several 
occasions became personally responsible for 
the payment of loans secured for the con- 
struction of the water works. Upon the 
completion of the through transportation to 
Pittsburgh by the Pennsylvania canal, Mr. 
Burke, with several others, commenced a 
packet line from Philadelphia to the former 
place, he having his office at Harrisburg. 
He also became interested in the Portable 
line, in which enterprise, however, he sus- 
tained a loss of thirty-five thousand dollars ; 
but not discouraged, he continued in other 
business ventures. The first or jjioneer blast 
furnace erected at Harrisburg was by Mr. 
Burke and Governor Porter. It was erected 
along the line of the Pennsylvania canal 
above State street. While in successful 
operation several years, Mr. Burke withdrew 
from the firm, owing to his connection with 
some contracts on the various railroads then 
building in the State. He constructed por- 
tions of the Pennsylvania road between Har- 
risburg and Pittsburgh, and on the Northern 
Central, between Harrisburg and York. He 
had heavy contracts in Massachusetts and 
New Hampshire, and was also engaged in 
the construction of reservoirs, building one 
at Baltiihore, Md., in 1860, and was engaged 
in the erection of one in the city of Wash- 
ington at the time of his death. He died at 
Harrisburg on the 15th of August, 1864, in 
his sixty-seventh year. Few men have ex- 
hibited more public spirit than Mr. Burke, 
and during his entire residence at Harris- 
burg he was held in the highest esteem by 
his fellow citizens, who admired his energy 
and remarkable business capacity. To those 
who knew him best he was kind, obliging, 
genial, and noble-hearted. Mr. Burke mar- 
ried, on April 6, 1824, Mary A. Finley, of 
Lockport, N. Y. Their children among 
others have been: William (deceased), John 
Michael (deceased), George Washington, Jose- 
phine, married James Brady, and Martina, 
married Edward P. Kearns. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



219 



Rehrer, Thomas Jefferson, only son of 
Godfried Rehrer and Eva Leiss, was born 
November 8, 1797, near Rehrersburg, Berks 
county, Pa. His grandfather, Godfried Rehrer 
or Roher, settled there at an early day. Dur- 
ing the French and Indian war his residence 
was on the direct road to the frontier settle- 
ments. He married Magdalena Etchberger, 
and their son, Godfried Rehrer, born 1769, 
represented Berks countv in the Legislature 
in 1817, 1820 and 1823. " Thomas J. received 
a good education, was brought up to a mer- 
cantile life, but subsequently retired to his 
farm. While engaged in farming he was 
elected a member of the Legislature, in which 
he served two terms. At the close of the 
last session be removed to Harrisburg, hav- 
ing accepted a clerkship in the Land Office of 
the Commonwealth. He remained in that 
department, with the exception of two inter- 
vals of three years each, until 1866, filling 
the position of deputy or chief clerk under 
the several organizations of the office. His 
long service there made him unusually 
familiar with the business, and its bearing 
on the land interests of the State, together 
with his faithful attention to the duties, was 
appreciated and recognized by ail who had 
business to transact in the survevor general's 
office. He died February 28, 1872, at Phila- 
delphia. Mr. R,ehrer married Salome Weiser, 
daughter of John Weiser and Elizabeth An- 
spach, born January 3, 1799, on the Conrad 
Weiser farm, about twelve miles west of 
Reading. She died October 30, 1842, at Har- 
risburg, and is there buried. The children 
were: Clementine M., Clara S., married Dr. 
George Dock, of Harrisburg, Miranda E., 
married Lewis G. Osbourn, of Philadelphia, 
and Erasmus Godfrey. 



Kendig, Martin, son of John Kendig, 
was born December 31, 1797, in Sunbury, 
Northumberland county, Pa., died August 
28, 1850, near Middletown, Pa. After receiv- 
ing a fair education, he learned the trade of 
saddle and harness making at Harrisburg, 
and, upon attaining his majority, established 
the business at Middletown, carrying on, 
with his brother Daniel, the lumber trade. 
Subsequently, in company with thelatterand 
Judge Murray, erected a large saw mill at the 
mouth of the Swatara, and established an 
extensive business. He served as one of the 
auditors of the county from 1826 to 1828, 
and represented Dauphin county in the 
Legislature from 1S37 to 1839. Mr. Kendig 



was an enterprising citizen, and a gentleman 
of probity and worth, highly esteemed in 
the community, and influential in public af- 
fairs. He was thrice married ; married, 
first, June 15, 1820, Rebecca McFarland, of 
Lower Paxtang township, Dauphin county, 
Pa.; b. June 28, 1800 ; died April 1, 1831. 



Harris, George Washington, was born 
June 23, 1798, in the old ferry house, now 
the location of Harris Park school house. 
He was a son of Robert Harris, who was a 
son of John Harris, the founder of the city 
of Harrisburg, and grandson of John Harris, 
the first settler. His mother was Elizabeth 
Ewing, daughter of the celebrated Rev. John 
Ewing, D. D., provost of the University of 
Pennsylvania. Mr. Harris' early education 
was received at the old Harrisburg Academy 
and the select schools of the day. Subse- 
quently he went to Dickinson, Jefferson and 
the University of Pennsylvania, graduating 
at the latter institution. He studied law, 
and was admitted to the Dauphin county 
bar in 1820. He remained at Harrisburg 
several years, during a portion of which 
period he served as deputy attorney general 
for the county of Dauphin. He afterwards 
removed to Philadelphia and entered into 
law partnership with Calvin Blythe. He 
returned to Harrisburg and resumed his 
place at the Dauphin county bar, and was 
appointed reporter of the Supreme Court of 
Pennsylvania, publishing a series of volumes 
of report. For a number of years he filled 
the position of secretary to the library com- 
mittee of the United States Senate. Mr. 
Harris recently edited the journal of Mr. 
Maclay, one of the first United States sen- 
ators from Pennsylvania. He died at Har- 
risburg Sunday morning, August 13, 1882. 
Mr. Harris married Elizabeth Mary, daughter 
of Dr. Henry Hall and Hester Maclay, daugh- 
ter of Senator Maclay : his wife surviving him 
at near fourscore. 



Cameron, Gen. Simon, son of Charles 
Cameron and Martha Pfoutz, was born 
March 8, 1799, at Maytown, Lancaster 
county, Pa. On the paternal side he is de- 
scended from the clan Cameron, of Scotland, 
who shared their fortunes with the unfortu- 
nate Charles Edward, whose star of hope 
sunk on the field of Culloden. Donald Cam- 
eron, his great-grandfather, was a partici- 
pant in that memorable battle, ami having 
escaped the carnage made his way to Amer- 



220 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ica, arriving about 1745-46. He afterwards 
fought under the gallant Wolfe upon the 
Heights of Abraham, and during the war 
with France was in continuous service. His 
grandfather, Simon Cameron, was an early 
associator in the Revolution, and took the 
oath of allegiance June 1, 1778; a brother 
John signed the same day. Of the latter 
General Bingham, of Philadelphia, is a 
grandson. On the maternal side he is de- 
scended from Conrad Pfoutz, an emigrant 
from the Palatinate, Germany. He settled 
in Lancaster county, and Pfoutz's Valley, in 
now Perry county, perpetuates the name of 
a hero of the border warfare of Pennsylvania 
in the days when the treacherous Delawares 
and perfidious Shawanese sought to desolate 
the homes of the early pioneers of our State 
— John Pfoutz. Charles Cameron and Mar- 
tha Pfoutz had a large family, yet a remark- 
able one, and the history of our country 
gives but few instances of the successful 
career of an entire family, among whom the 
subject of this sketch is the most prominent. 

When young Cameron was about the age 
of nine years his parents removed to North- 
umberland county, where his father shortly 
afterwards dying, he was early cast upon 
his own exertions. There were then few ad- 
vantages afforded by public schools, and 
his educational facilities were exceedingly 
limited. Having an unquenchable fondness 
for books, young Cameron was able to per- 
ceive no other means so likely to satiate his 
appetite as a printing office, it seeming to 
him the chief center of thought in the com- 
munity in which destiny had fixed his lot. 
He therefore entered, in 1816, as an appren- 
tice to the printing business with Andrew 
Kennedy, editor of the Northumberland 
County Gazette, at Northumberland, where 
he continued one year, when his employer, 
owing to financial reverses, was obliged to 
close his establishment. Being thus thrown 
out of employment, he made his way by 
river boat and on foot to Harrisburg, where 
he secured a situation in the printing office 
of James Peacock, editor of the Republican, 
with whom he remained until he had at- 
tained his majority. 

In January, 1821, he went to Doylestown, 
Pa., at the solicitation of Samuel D. Ingham, 
where he published the Bucks County Mes- 
senger. As editor of this paper he evinced a 
breadth of information which, in view of his 
limited advantages, seemed astonishing. In 
March of the same year he entered into part- 



nership with the publisher of the Doylestown 
Democrat, and the firm merged their papers 
into the Bucks County Democrat, which pub- 
lication was continued until the close of the 
year 1821, when the establishment passed 
into the hands by purchase of Gen. W. T. 
Rodgers. The succeeding winter Mr. Cam- 
eron spent in the office of Messrs. Gales & 
Seaton, publishers of the National Intelli- 
gencer, at Washington, as a journeyman 
printer. He returned to Harrisburg in 1822, 
and entered into partnership with Charles 
Mowry in the management of the Pennsyl- 
vania Intelligencer, then the organ of the 
Democratic party at the State capital, and 
enjoyed the official patronage of the State 
administration, and was elected one of the 
printers to the State, a position he held seven 
years. Having been the early friend and 
supporter of Governor Shulze, upon his ceas- 
ing to be State printer, he was honored by 
that executive with the appointment of ad- 
jutant general of Pennsylvania, the duties 
of which office he discharged with ability 
and to the satisfaction of the public. 

General Cameron at an early period took 
a deep interest in the development of inter- 
nal improvements, and took extensive con- 
tracts upon the Pennsylvania canal, then in 
process of construction. In 1826 he began 
building the section between Harrisburg and 
Sunbury, and after this was well under way 
he took one or two sections on the western 
division of thecanal. When Louisianagranted 
a charter to the State Bank of that Common- 
wealth, it provided that the bank should build 
a canal from Lake Pontchartrain to New Or- 
leans. General Cameron took the contract 
for that great work, which was then regarded 
by engineers as the greatest undertaking of 
the time. In 1831 he started for New Or- 
leans. He employed twelve hundred men in 
Philadelphia, and sent them by sea to that 
cit} r . He, with his engineers and tools, went 
down the Mississippi river, embarking at 
Pittsburgh. He spent nearly half a year 
upon the work, and demonstrated beyond a 
doubt its entire feasibility. He was recalled 
from his work on the Lake Pontchartrain 
canal by a summons from Major Eaton, Sec- 
retary of War under General Jackson, who 
requested him to return to Pennsylvania and 
organize a delegation to the National Con- 
vention, which had been called to meet in 
Baltimore. This was in the interest of Mar- 
tin Van Buren for the Vice-Presidenc}'. Cal- 
houn had served eight years, had quarreled 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



221 



with General Jackson during his second term, 
and had otherwise put himself in antagonism 
to the prevailing popularity of Jackson. Gen- 
eral Cameron respected the summons, came 
home and organized a delegation that went 
to Baltimore in the interest of Mr. Van Buren 
for the Vice-Presidency. This was the first 
National Convention ever held in the United 
States. Mr. Cameron was requested to accept 
the permanent chairmanship of that conven- 
tion, but declined, and a gentleman from 
North Carolina was selected. 

After the National Convention in Balti 
more he was appointed a visitor to West 
Point by General Jackson, and upon per- 
forming his duties on the Hudson he made 
his first trip to New England. He went with 
a brother of Bishop Potter, of Pennsylvania, 
and thoroughly inspected the paper mills 
and other manufactures of that section. 

In the winter of 1832 the Legislature char- 
tered the bank at Middletown, and he be- 
came its cashier. From the first the bank 
was successful, but the duties of cashier were 
so limited that General Cameron sought 
other fields of labor and usefulness, although 
he remained there twenty-five years. He 
projected and created the railroads from Mid- 
dletown to Lancaster, from Harrisburg to 
Sunbury, from Harrisburg to Lebanon, and 
at the same time gave large encouragement 
to the Cumberland Valley railroad. And 
in this connection it may be stated that the 
Northern Central railroad from Harrisburg 
to Baltimore was captured by him from Bal- 
timore interests and made a Pennsylvania 
institution; and he was at one time president 
of not less than four corporations, all operat- 
ing lines within a few miles of the spot where 
he was born. 

In 1838 Presideut Van Buren tendered to 
General Cameron the appointment of a com- 
missioner with James Murray, one of the 
most respected citizens of Maryland, under a 
treaty with the Winnebago Indians to settle 
and adjust the claims made against the In- 
dians by the traders. These claims were for 
goods furnished the Indians during a long 
period of years, and the sum appropriated 
by the treaty was three hundred thousand 
dollars. In many cases the commissioners 
found the claims of the traders unjust, and 
every account allowed by them met with the 
approbation of the commissioner appointed 
by the Indians. In the settlement of some 
of the claims, the aggregate amount having 
been reduced from over a million to about 



two hundred and fifty thousand dollars, the 
traders refused to accept the award and went 
to Washington with charges against the com- 
missioners. It had been the usual custom 
to give the entire appropriation to the claim- 
ants, but this course did not allow of any di- 
vision. The charges were met by a demand 
from the commissioners for re-examination, 
which resulted in the appointment of a new 
commission the next year, under whose di- 
rection the Indians were assembled in coun- 
cil, who approved by a united vote of their 
council the entire acts of Messrs. Cameron 
and Murray, and the account thus adjudged 
was paid by the Government. 

In 1845, when James K. Polk tendered the 
State Department to James Buchanan, and 
that gentleman resigned his seat in the Sen- 
ate of the United States, an election to sup- 
ply the vacancy became necessary. General 
Cameron was at this time in recognized sym- 
pathy with the Democratic part}', and selected 
as the representative of the wing of the party 
which favored the policy of a protective 
tariff. The regular caucus nominee of the 
Democracy, however, was George W. Wood- 
ward, which was regarded as a free trade tri- 
umph, rendering it possible for some other 
Democrat known to be honestly devoted to 
the ever-cherished polic}' of the State to be 
elected by a union of the Whigs, Americans, 
and those Democrats in favor of the protec- 
tive policy. The result was the election of 
Simon Cameron to the United States Senate. 
From March, 1845, to March 4, 1849, he 
served his State faithfully in that body, and 
proved himself true to the greatest interests 
committed to his charge, and he never wearied 
in the support of the principles on which he 
was elected. It may be here stated that Pres- 
ident Polk at the first seemed inclined to ig- 
nore Mr. Cameron, declaring his election to 
the Senate as having been outside the party 
organization, but this treatment he found to 
his cost was not conducive to his own peace 
of mind, sent for General Cameron, made a 
truce with him, and there was never any 
more trouble. 

In the winter of 1857 the entire opposition 
members of the Legislature, consisting of 
Whigs, Native Americans, and Tariff-Men, 
selected General Cameron as their candidate 
to fill the place of Senator Br od head, whose 
term of service expired on the 4th of March 
that yeai\ The Democratic caucus nomi- 
nated Col. John W. Forney, then the inti- 
mate friend of President Buchanan, who had 



222 



BIO OR A PHI UAL ENUYCL OPEDIA 



written a letter to the Legislature naming 
him as his choice for the senatorship, al- 
though a large portion of the party were in 
favor of Henry D. Foster, who was an out- 
spoken tariff man. The united votes of the 
opposition, with three Democratic votes, two 
from Schuylkill and one from York, in which 
counties General Cameron possessed great 
strength and popularity on account of his 
firm devotion to their industrial interests, 
were cast in his favor, and he was elected for 
the full term. He took his seat in the Senate 
on the 4th of March, notwithstanding the > 
futile assault made by his colleague from 
Pennsylvania, Mr. Bigler, upon his title to 
the place, and which that bod}' refused to 
consider. General Cameron's return to the 
United States Senate brought him again 
prominently before the public, and in the 
political movements which preceded the 
campaign of 1860 he was named as the choice 
of Pennsylvania for the Presidency; and his 
name early associated with that of Mr. Lin- 
coln in connection with the Republican na- 
tional ticket. 

General Cameron's national career began 
at the Chicago convention in 1860, when the 
Republican party, crystallized into a national 
organization, made its open, clear, and stern 
antagonism to slavery. With intuitive sa- 
gacity the advocates of slavery recognized 
in the Republican party the force which 
would ultimately overthrow it, and men like 
General Cameron were recognized as the 
leaders of that force. There was no mistak- 
ing the measure on which it entered on the 
canvas in 1860. When Mr. Lincoln was 
nominated General Camerom made himself 
felt in such a manner as to win the confi- 
dence of that illustrious statesman. After 
the great political battle of that year, General 
Cameron was the first of those to whom Mr. 
Lincoln turned for counsel, and the offer of 
a cabinet office by the latter to the former 
was a voluntary act, and that appointment 
would have been made the first in the selec- 
tion of his cabinet had not intrigues inter- 
fered to defer it at the time. Mr. Lincoln 
looked on General Cameron from first to 
last not only as his political, but his warm 
personal friend, and there were no such rela- 
tions existing between the President and his 
other constitutional advisers. This fact was 
well known when the cabinet was organized. 
While he was in the War Department his 
counsel was not only potential in cabinet 
meetings, but was sought by the President 



in private, and heeded in such a marked 
manner as to create a feeling of hostility, 
which caused the President much unpleas- 
antness. Then, too, believing that the Civil 
war would require all the available resources 
of the Nation to preserve the Union, doubt- 
ing the speedy settlement of the trouble, he 
began as Secretary of War a scale of prepa- 
rations to combat it which puzzled the oldest 
officers in the army and chagrined the leaders 
of the Rebellion, who had calculated much 
on the supineness and lethargy of the North- 
ern people. General Cameron frustrated 
this hope by his energy, but he had the cabi- 
net to a man against him. When he sought 
to furnish the necessary supplies for the 
arm}' he was met by sickly sentimentality 
about settling the war in diplomacy. The 
Confederates resorted to the ruse of diplo- 
macy by means of commissioners for the 
purpose of retarding this activity, but at 
the same time General Cameron was filling 
up the arsenals which had been dispoiled by 
the former Secretary of War, thus supplying 
the army with huge quantities of ordinance 
and commissary and quartermasters' stores, 
etc. Such work naturally attracted the at- 
tention of the sordid, excited the timid, 
aroused the jealous, and confounded the sus- 
picious. The minister who thus labored to 
equip his country for a struggle with trea- 
son, the proportions of which he alone 
seemed fully to appreciate, was assailed for 
each and all of these acts. Mr. Lincoln had 
the fullest confidence in his Secretary of 
War; he believed in his sagacity and relied 
on his courage, but he could not wholly 
withstand the clamor, the outgrowth of 
cowardice on the one side and the cunning 
greed of adventurers on the other, so that 
General Cameron, to relieve Mr. Lincoln 
from embarrassment, resolved to resign, and 
on January 11, 1862, returned the portfolio 
of the War Department to the President; 
but in that act he commanded the renewed 
confidence of Mr. Lincoln, who the day he 
accepted his resignation nominated the re- 
tiring minister for the most important diplo- 
matic mission in his gift. Nor was this all; 
Mr. Lincoln insisted that General Cameron 
should name his own successor, an act which 
no retiring cabinet officer ever did before or 
since. The mission to Russia involved the 
safe and sagacious handling of our relations 
with the Czar's government at a moment 
when it demanded the most prudent direc- 
tion. The kindly relations which existed 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



223 



between the colossal power of the North 
and the great republic of the West dated 
back in their amity when Catharine declined 
to take part with England in the suppression 
of American Colonial Revolution for inde- 
pendence. General Cameron restored thisfeel- 
ing, and thus frustrated English and French 
intrigue to organize an alliance with Na- 
poleon III. at its head in the interest of the 
Southern Confederacy. The country never 
fully appreciated this fact, because it was a 
part of its diplomacy which admitted of no 
correspondence. This object accomplished, 
concluded General Cameron's mission to 
Russia. There was in fact nothing more to 
do in St. Petersburg but to maintain what 
had been established, and he could with 
safety ask for his credentials and retire. 

The relations between Mr. Lincoln and 
Mr. Cameron were always most cordial, and 
immediately upon his reaching the United 
States the latter was the accepted citizen- 
counselor at the White House. At this time 
efforts were being made looking to defeating 
the renomination of Mr. Lincoln for a second 
term. It was a period of great solicitude 
to the President, who with characteristic 
modesty declined to make any movement in 
his own behalf. In the winter of 1864 the 
intrigue referred to was talked of in political 
circles at Washington as a success. General 
Cameron visited the national capital re- 
peatedly at that time, and on reaching his 
farm after a return from one of these visits 
had a paper prepared, embodying the merits 
of Mr. Lincoln as President, acknowledging 
the fidelity and integrity of his first admin- 
istration, and declaring that his renomina- 
tion and re-election involved a necessity es- 
sential to the success of the war for the 
Union. That paper was submitted to the 
Republican members of both branches of 
the Legislature of the State of Pennsylvania, 
every one of whom signed it, and in this 
shape was presented to Mr. Lincoln, and 
telegraphed to the country at large. Its 
publication accomplished all that the fore- 
thought of its originator anticipated. In 
three weeks after the issuing of this letter, it 
was a curious spectacle to watch the precipita- 
tion with which the Republicans in all the 
States hastened to declare in favor of Mr. 
Lincoln's renomination ; so that when the 
National Convention assembled to do that 
act there was no opposition to him. 

From 1864 to 1866 General Cameron took 



a very active part in the politics of Pennsyl- 
vania; giving to the organization of the Re- 
publican party a prestige which enabled it 
to bear down all opposition. He was the 
one leader of that part}' who could rally it 
in despondency and hold it in fidelity to its 
pledges. 

In 1866 he was re-elected to the United 
States Senate, a position he held a longer 
term of years than an}' man sent to the same 
body from the State of Pensylvania. His 
influence on national legislation was as great 
as that of any man that ever served in the 
Senate. The singularity of this influence is 
revealed in greater force when it is remem- 
bered that he seldom participated in debate. 
He made no pretention to oratory, but his 
talk was sound, his argument lucid, and his 
statement of fact impregnable. What he 
lacked in fervid, flashing speech he made up 
in terse, solid common sense. From the 
time he entered the Senate until he resigned 
his seat in 1877 — a continuous service of 
eleven years — he was recognized as one of 
its most useful and reliable members, and at 
the date of his resignation was chairman of 
the committee on foreign relations, a posi- 
tion only accorded to a senator of admitted 
statesmanship. He was foremost always in 
practical legislation. His opinions on ques- 
tions of commerce, manufacturing, finance, 
internal improvements, fortifications, and 
the public domain were always accepted as 
guiding counsel. He encouraged the build- 
ing of the first Pacific railroad, was a warm 
supporter of opening the public lands to 
actual settlers, and no man in Congress be- 
fore or after he left it did more, and few as 
much as he, for the fostering, promotion and 
protection of American industry. He lost 
no opportunity to advocate and further the 
organization of new States, and regarded the 
expansion of the boundaries of the Union 
as the only true course to preserve the equi- 
librium of power between the sections. He 
made history as few other statesmen in this 
country created it, by producing results in 
the practical walks of life, such as make 
men prosperous and happy, that stimulate 
the growth of communities, whereby the 
country has been constantly rendered power- 
ful abroad and a blessing to its people at 
home. History in its broadest scope will 
ever keep such individuals before the gen- 
erations of men which are to live in this 
country, for their models in public affairs. 



224 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



General Cameron died June, 1889, at the 
ripe old age of ninety years, his faculties per- 
fect until the last. 

General Cameron married Margaret Brua, 
daughter of Peter Brua, of Harrisburg, and 
their children were Rachel, married Judge 
Burnside, of Bellefonte, Brua, Margaret, 
married Richard J. Haldeman, James Don- 
ald, and Virginia, married Wayne MacVeagh. 



Snyder, Charles Albright, son of Simon 
Snyder and Catharine Michael, was born 
May 29, 1799, at Selinsgrove, Pa. His grand- 
father, Simon Snyder, was an emigrant from 
Moravia, while Ins mother's father wasEber- 
hart Michael, a prominent personage in the 
earl} 7 history of Lancaster county. Charles 

A. was educated by private tutors, and early 
in life began contracting. In 1837 he was 
one of a partnership in the building of the 
West Feliciana railroad in Mississippi and 
Louisiana. For several years he was a clerk 
in the prothonotary's office at Sunbury and 
afterwards at Harrisburg. In the latter part 
of his life he was a justice of the peace, alder- 
man, United States commissioner, and a 
notary public. He died at Harrisburg on 
the 8th of November, 1868, aged sixty-nine 
years. Mr. Snyder was a good land lawyer 
and had a very extensive knowledge of land 
titles in Pennsylvania, and was often sought 
by prominent members of the bar in consul- 
tation on such subjects. He owned consid- 
erable bodies of coal land, which have now 
become valuable, but which he was com- 
pelled to part with because of the slowness 
of internal improvements ; was interested in 
the copper and nickel mines of Lancaster, 
Pa., and Connecticut; developed the first 
cannel coal mines in Missouri ; was pioneer 
in such earl}' enterprises, which always 
turned out disastrous at the time, but as the 
country improved and modern appliances 
and new inventions came in vogue turned 
out well. In fact, he was too far in advance 
of the times. Mr. Snyder married, in 1828, 
Barbara Keller, daughter of John Keller, 
and their children were : Catharine, married 

B. F. Etter, Edward, Eugene, Mary, Emma, 
married Dr. George H. Markley, Charles, 
Simon, and John Keller, the two latter de- 
ceased. 



the Royal University of Copenhagen. In 
1819 he came to the United States and set- 
tled upon a tract of land known as " Galla- 
gher's Improvement," on Clearfield creek, 
Clearfield county, Pa., presented him by his 
father. He built a log hut and remained 
there about nine years, passing that time in 
studying, clearing the land and hunting. 
In 1832 he found employment in the con- 
struction of the State canals in his chosen 
profession, that of civil engineer. In 1835 
he was employed as chief engineer on the 
construction of the West Feliciana railroad, 
of Louisiana, a short line of road running 
from Bayou Sara to Woodville. During the 
years 1836-38 he was chief engineer of the 
Franklin railroad in Pennsylvania. May 
30, 1838, he was appointed by the canal 
commissioners of the State principal engi- 
neer upon the survey of a route from the 
town of Chambersburg to Pittsburgh, also on 
the Raystown Branch of the Juniata, as con- 
templated in the act of the Pennsylvania 
State Legislature passed April 14, 1838. 
April 19, 1847, he was appointed principal 
assistant engineer of the eastern division of 
the Pennsylvania railroad, under William 
B. Forster, Jr. In 1852 he was employed in 
the construction of the Dauphin and Susque- 
hanna Coal Company railroad. From 
September 1, 1850, to July 19, 1859, he was 
principal engineer on the enlargement of the 
Union canal. July 10, 1859, he was ap- 
pointed by Gov. William F. Packer a com- 
missioner to examine that portion of the 
line of the Sunbury and Erie railroad lying 
between the harbor of Erie and the borough 
of Warren. On April 24, 1860, he was 
elected civil engineer to make survey and 
plan of the city of Harrisburg. In 1866 he 
was employed in the office of the assessor of 
the United States internal revenue, continu- 
ing in the employ of the Government until 
1872, in which year, on the 27th day of June, 
he departed this life. Mr. Hage was married, 
December 18, 1849, by the Rev. J. Baker, of 
Lancaster, to ^Mary A., daughter of Henry 
and Salome Kendig, of Lancaster county. 



Hage, Hother. son of Jens Fredrich and 
Gertrude (Heitmann) Hage, was born April 
9, 1800, in the city of Copenhagen, Denmark. 
He was a graduate at the age of fourteen of 



McCormick, James, son of William Mc- 
Cormick, was born February 24, 1801, near 
Silvers Spring, Cumberland county, Pa.; 
died January 19, 1870, at Harrisburg, Pa. 
When less than five years of age he lost his 
father by a fatal accident. Paternal care 
thus devolved upon his mother, a bright, 
determined woman, and by her his prepara- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



225 



tory studies were carefully made, fitting him 
at an early age for Princeton College, where 
he graduated with reputation, and began the 
study of law with Andrew Carothers, Esq., 
of Carlisle. Me was admitted to the bar of 
Cumberland county in 1823, and to that of 
Dauphin county at the August term, 1825. 
His most successful career never faltered as 
long as he was able to give his professional 
duties any attention, and, indeed, followed 
him after his retirement from all active pur- 
suits. He served in the borough council a 
long time, and was president of that body, 
also of the Dauphin Deposit Bank, of the 
Harrisburg cemetery, of the Harrisburg 
Bridge Compan}', and one of the trustees of 
the Pine Street Presbyterian church. In all 
these positions he was a cautious and able 
adviser. He uniformly declined candidature 
for office, as also offers of the highest honors 
of his profession. Upon the retirement he 
gave the powers of his active mind to the 
management of a large estate, consisting of 
furnaces, rolling mills,grist mills and farms. 
All these interests were successful, and not- 
withstanding his ph}'sical disability, con- 
ducted in a masterly and systematic manner. 
Mr. McCormick married, in 1830, Eliza 
Buehler, born November 11, 1806, at Erie, 
Pa.; died December 25, 1877, at Harrisburg, 
Pa.; only daughter of George Buehler and 
Maria Nagle. She was, indeed, a most esti- 
mable woman. To each noble charity, 
benevolent enterprise, philanthropic move- 
ment, Christian endeavor, hospital or home 
in the city of Harrisburg she was a friend, 
promoter and benefactor. From no good 
cause or charitable work or need}' poor did 
she withhold her hand or deny her 
bounty. 



Cameron, Col. James, youngest son of 
Charles Cameron and Martha Pfoutz, was 
born at Maytown, Lancaster county, Pa., 
March 1, 1801. He received his early edu- 
cation at the village school, and at nineteen 
entered the printing office of his brother, 
General Cameron, at Harrisburg, where he 
served a faithful apprenticeship. In 1827 
he went to Lancaster, where he assumed the 
editorship of the Political Sentinel, studying 
law in the meantime in the office of James 
Buchanan, afterwards President of the United 
States. He was duly admitted to the Lan- 
caster bar, and in 1838 established himself 
at Harrisburg. During the Mexican war he 
served under General Scott, and upon its 



close settled upon a farm near Milton, Pa., 
where he was living in retirement when the 
Avar for the Union was inaugurated. At the 
solicitation of the soldiers of the so-called 
Highlander regiment (the Seventy-ninth 
New York), he accepted the commission of 
colonel of that organization. At the battle 
of the first Bull Run, June 21, 1861, he was 
of Sherman's brigade, Tyler's division, and 
at the crisis of the struggle bore himself with 
the greatest gallantry. Again and again he 
led his men with the cry, " Scots, follow 
me ! " in the face of a withering fire of mus- 
ketry and artillery, until stricken down mor- 
tally wounded, expiring on the field of his 
heroic exploits. " No mortal man," says an 
eye witness, " could stand the fearful storm 
that swept them." After repeated efforts the 
body of the gallant Cameron was recovered, 
brought to his home, and interred amid 
many demonstrations of respect and affec- 
tion. 



AVeir, John Andrew, son of Samuel Weir 
and his wife Marv Wallace, born January 19, 
1802, at Harrisburg, Pa.; died October 10, 
1881. He was educated in the private schools 
of the town and at the Harrisburg Academy. 
He learned coach-making, and, subsecpaently, 
went into the hardware business, which he 
continued a number of years, afterwards con- 
necting with it the drug trade, taking into 
partnership his nephew, D. W. Gross. Dur- 
ing the administration of Governor Ritner 
he served as a clerk in the office of the sec- 
retary of the Commonwealth. In 1840 he 
was elected prothonotary of Dauphin count}', 
a position he filled two terms (six years). 
While serving in this office he was chosen a 
director of the Harrisburg Bank, and after- 
wards became teller in that institution, in 
which capacity he continued until 1S80. 
While performing these duties he was treas- 
urer of the State Lunatic Hospital, at Harris- 
burg, from its first establishment in 1850 to 
1880. For nearly fifty years he was an elder in 
the first Presbyterian church of Harrisburg, 
and took a warm interest in the promotion of 
the Sunday-school system. He was one of the 
first, firmest and influential friends of the 
anti-slavery cause in Dauphin county. Mr. 
Weir married twice; first, Catharine E. Wiest- 
ling, born February 21, 1810, died May IS, 
1845, daughter of John S. Wiestling; and 
secondlv, Maria Matilda Fahnestock, born 
December 15, 1808, died August 28, 18S3, in 
Harrisburg, daughter of Abed Fahnestock. 






226 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Rutherford, John Parke, son of Will- 
iam Rutherford and his wife Sarah Swan, 
was born February 14, 1802, in Swatara 
township, Dauphin county, Pa.; died May 
12, 1871. He was a farmer, and brought up 
in that pursuit. He held many places of 
public trust in his life ; was superintendent 
of the Wiconisco canal as early as 1837, an 
auditor of the count}', a jury commissioner, 
and was vice-president and treasurer of the 
Pennsylvania State Agricultural Society. 
He was a strong anti-slavery advocate, as all 
his family were, and many a weary pilgrim, 
in the days of the fugitive slave act, sore of 
foot and heart, found in Captain Rutherford 
hospitable assistance, material aid and manly 
encouragement. He hated slavery because 
he considered it a moral sin and a political 
blight upon the free institutions of America. 
During the late Rebellion he served as quar- 
termaster in the United States army, rank- 
ing fourth on the list. While stationed at 
Harper's Ferry he was captured in one of 
the raids on that stronghold, but released on 
parole. He was then ordered to Camp Doug- 
las, and subsequently to Charleston, S. 0. 
In the latter city, about the close of the war, 
he contracted a disease from the effects of 
which he never fully recovered. Captain 
Rutherford married Eliza Rutherford, born 
October 30, 1801 ; died January 30, 1860 ; 
daughter of Samuel Rutherford. 



Sloan, Alexander, son of Robert and 
Sarah (McCormick) Sloan, was born October 
9, 1802, at Harrisburg, Dauphin county, Pa. 
He was educated in the private and select 
schools of Harrisburg, especially under that 
eminent mathematician, James Maginnes. 
He learned the trade of cabinet-maker with 
his father, and after the latter's death con- 
tinued the business alone up to 1864, after 
that period for several years in connection 
with Mr. Boyd. Mr. Sloan married, Septem- 
ber 19, 1833, Mary, daughter of James and 
Sarah Todd, of Hanover. She died at Har- 
risburg December 2, 1871, in her sixty-third 
year, and their children were: Robert, Sarah, 
who married H. Murray Graydon, Margaret 
A., who married Henry Shantz, and Isa- 
bella D. 



Bombaugh, Aaron, son of Abraham Bom- 
baugh and Catharine Reehm, was born Feb- 
ruary 12, 1803, at Harrisburg, Pa. He was 
educated at the private schools of the town, 
and at the old academy. He was placed 



early in youth to the trade of a hatter with 
Jacob Shoemaker, of Harrisburg, and at his 
majority went to Philadelphia for instruc- 
tions as a finisher, and while there became a 
member of the "Association of Journeymen 
Hatters," being entered March 2, 1824. He 
returned to his native town and established 
himself in business, which he followed several 
years, until he was obliged to relinquish it, 
owing to impaired health, which had been 
affected by the dyes used in coloring the felt. 
He then assumed charge of his father's ex- 
tensive limestone quarry, conducting that 
business with marked success. Like his 
father and grandfather before him, Mr. Bom- 
baugh took a prominent part in municipal 
affairs, and frequently served in the borough 
council. From 1838 to 1844 he served as 
treasurer of the count}' of Dauphin, a posi- 
tion he filled efficiently and acceptably. He 
was one of the first advocates for the estab- 
lishment of a lunatic hospital by the State 
for the insane poor of the Commonwealth, 
and greatly aided Miss Dix in her efforts to 
secure State assistance for the inauguration 
of those noble charities which have so dis- 
tinguished our Commonwealth. He was one 
of the first trustees of the institution located 
at Harrisburg. Having several farms near 
the city, the latter years of his life were 
passed in their management. He died at 
Harrisburg on the 13th of December, 1877, 
in the seventy-fifth year of his age. He was 
an early Abolitionist, as the anti-slavery men 
were denominated, a decided Anti-Mason in 
the days of that crusade, and with well-de- 
fined and positive convictions was ready to 
encounter any amount of obloquy in their 
defense. During the Rebellion he devoted 
his time and means to the care and comfort 
of the Pennsylvania soldiers in camp and 
hospital. He was the last survivor of the 
Unitarian Society established by the Rev. 
Mr. Kay, and which, from successive deaths 
and lack of fresh accessions, melted away 
many years since. 

Mr. Bombaugh was twice married — first, 
on May 3, 1827, to Maria Lloyd, daughter of 
Joseph Lloyd, an attorney-at-law, of Phila- 
delphia, born there in 1809, and died Janu- 
ary 1, 1853, at Harrisburg, and their chil- 
dren were Dr. Charles Carroll, a noted phy- 
sician and author, now of Baltimore, Md.; 
Lavinia, married Gillard Dock, of Harris- 
burg ; Alexander, d. s. p.; Catharine, married 
Junius B. Kaufman, a lawyer, of Lancaster, 
Pa.; and Julia, married Dr. Grafton, of Bal- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



227 



timore. Of these only Dr. C. C. Borabaugh 
and Mrs. Kaufman aie living. Mr. Bom- 
baugh married, secondly, Julia Duncan, of 
Duncan's Island, who survived him. 



ried, in 1828, Martha Ingram, born Novem- 
ber 30, 1808; died August 23, 1850, and 
their children were Margaret Ingram and 
Emma Elizabeth. 



Jones, Andrew J., son of Robert Thomas 
Jones and Margaret Williamson, was born, 
1803, in county Donegal, Ireland. He re- 
ceived a fine English education, and early 
in life came to Harrisburg, where he learned 
merchandizing with John Cameron. Sub- 
sequently, in partnership with his brother 
Samuel T., he entered into the mercantile 
business, which they successfully carried on 
for many years. Mr. Jones became quite 
prominent in political affairs, and in 1848, 
upon the election of Gen. Zachary Taylor to 
the Presidency, was appointed postmaster at 
Harrisburg, a position he acceptably filled 
four years. He died at Harrisburg, January 
13, 1S67, aged sixty -four years. Mr. Jones 
was thrice married; first, to Mary Ann Jones, 
daughter of Thomas Jones and Margery 
Donnelly, of Perry county, Pa. She died in 
March, 1843, and there was issue: Robert 
Thomas, d. s. p., John Cameron (1833-56), 
and Samuel T. He married, secondly, Susan 
B. Ayres, daughter of William Ayres and 
his wife Mary Elizabeth Bucher, of Harris- 
burg; their children all died in infancy. He 
married, thirdly, Sarah A. Buckman, of Bur- 
lington, N. J., and there was issue : Virginia 
R. and Andrew J. 



Boas, William Dick, son of Jacob Boas 
and Sarah Dick, was born September 6, 1803, 
at Harrisburg, Pa., and died there Ma}' 20, 
1889. He learned the art of printing with 
George Getz, of Reading, on the Berks and 
Schuylkill Herald, and afterwards worked at 
his profession in Philadelphia, Allentown 
and Harrisburg. In 1837 he purchased an 
interest in the Reporter office at Harrisburg, 
in partnership, first, with Samuel D. Patter- 
son, and then with William F. Copeland, re- 
tiring in 1842. During this period he was 
printer of the journals and bills of the House 
and Senate. He was cashier and clerk in 
the State treasurer's department during the 
administrations of Bickel, Bailey, Magraw 
and McGrath, about nine years in all ; was 
a clerk in the surveyor general's office, and 
four years prothonotary of the county of 
Dauphin. From 1866 to 1868 he was one of 
the publishers of the Patriot. Mr. Boas mar- 



Fleming, Robert Jackson, son of Samuel 
Fleming and grandson of Robert Fleming, 
was born November 16, 1803, in Hanover 
township, Washington county, Pa. ; died 
December 2, 1874, at Harrisburg, Pa. He 
received an academical education, and while 
yet a young man became a teacher and lec- 
turer on English grammar and on music, 
and took a trip to the then West, lecturing 
on his favorite topic. In 1834 he established 
the coach-making business on an extensive 
scale at Harrisburg Pa., and continued it 
with success until his entire establishment 
was destroyed by fire, June 15, 1865. He 
did not resume it. He built at his shop the 
first eight-wheel passenger car which ran on 
the Pennsylvania railroad between Columbia 
and Philadelphia, also the first on the Will- 
iamsport and Elmira railroad, taking it up 
the canal on a flat boat. He was appointed 
notary public in 1861, and held the office 
until his death, for years doing the business 
of the Harrisburg National Bank in this 
official capacity. He was deservedly honored 
in his adopted city as an upright and enter- 
prising citizen, a man of intelligence and 
high moral character, and in the Presby- 
terian church, of which he was a life-long 
member, he was one of its elders for twenty 
years. Mr. Fleming married, June 5, 1845, 
at McConnellsville, Morgan county, Ohio, 
Sarah Ann Poor, born January 30, 1814, at 
York Haven, Pa.; daughter of Charles Mer- 
rill Poor and Elizabeth (Karg) Roberts ; died 
in Harrisburg, Pa., at the residence of her 
son, Samuel W. Fleming, January 7, 1892. 



Sheafer, Michael, son of George Sheafer, 
was born December 1, 1803, at Halifax, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. For some years he re- 
sided in Harrisburg, Pa., and when quite a 
young man he married Susan Cloud, of Lan- 
caster county, and made his home in that 
county a few years. They had issue: Ada- 
line, married Rev. C. A. Wyeth ; Henry J.; 
John M., a civil engineer, who died at Selina, 
Alabama, August 11, 1871; Mary L., mar- 
ried Theodore D. Irish ; Harriet Matilda, 
married Joseph Davidson ; Lucetta, died 
June 9, 1837 ; Anne Eliza, married John 
Thompson ; George T., died November 4, 



228 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENOYCL OPEDIA 



1867, at Ashland; and Benjamin Ingersoll. 
In 1831-32 the Lykens Valley Coal Com- 
pany was organized, and commenced opera- 
tions at what was then called " Bear Gap " 
(now Wiconisco). The company built a 
large log frame house, and Michael Sheafer 
moved into it for the purpose of boarding 
the workmen and entertaining the members 
of the company. At that time the Upper 
End (now Lykens, Wiconisco and Williams- 
town) was one vast wilderness, with a few 
log huts scattered around. He resided in 
this place up to the date of his death, No- 
vember 30, 1849, taking an active part in 
the development of the coal region. He was 
one of the contractors in the building of the 
Lykens Valley railroad, also in the building 
of the aqueduct and other improvements at 
the mouth of the Wiconisco canal feeder. 
After the first railroad was built from the 
Gap to Millersburg, he had the contract for 
the delivery of the coal, floating it across the 
river at Mount Patrick on the Pennsylvania 
canal. His wife, Susan Sheafer, who was a 
most estimable Christian woman, died at 
Harrisburg, Pa., on the 17th of February, 
1876. .The remains of both rest in Kalmia 
cemetery, Harrisburg, Pa. 



Till, John, son of John and Catherine 
(Miller) Till, was born April 13, 1804, in the 
district of Kensington, Philadelphia. His 
parents were natives of Philadelphia, and he 
was the fourth child of ten sons and one 
daughter. Like his father, grandfather and 
most of his relatives, John was brought up 
a ship builder, learning that trade with the 
Messrs. Vaughan, of Kensington. In the 
winter of 1834 he came to Harrisburg to 
build a boat for W. P. Orrick, of Reading, 
who was extensively engaged in transporta- 
tion on the Pennsylvania and Union canals. 
Returning to Philadelphia after finishing 
his contract with Mr. Orrick, he entered into 
partnership with James Main, a ship builder 
of that city, and removed to Harrisburg in 
August, 1835, establishing a boatyard at the 
foot of North street on the canal. At that 
period boat building was the leading busi- 
ness at Harrisburg. About 1840, owing to 
want of proper facilities, the firm purchased 
a location on the west side of the canal, be- 
low Mulberry street, where they constructed 
a large basin connected with the canal on 
the towpath, over which they built a draw- 
bridge. At this place they carried on the 



building of boats for many years. A large 
number of the packet boats were built by 
them. During the winter the packet and 
other boats of Leech & Co.'s extensive trans- 
portation line were repaired, the number 
filling the basin and the canal from Paxtang 
street to now Herr street, from one winding 
bridge to the other. It may be here stated 
that Messrs. Till & Main constructed on the 
river bank below Mulberry street, two 'boats 
and one schooner for parties in New York 
City, which were launched in the Susque- 
hanna during the rise, and floated in the 
bay. In 1852 the firm erected a saw mill 
adjoining their boat yard, where they car- 
ried on a large lumber business. In 1853 
Mr. Main died, and for several years Mr. 
Till conducted the enterprise alone, subse- 
quently engaging in the coal trade a brief 
period, when he retired from all business 
pursuits. He served one term in the old 
borough council, for sixteen years a mem- 
ber of the school board, and was elected 
county treasurer for one term. Mr. Till 
married, November 6, 1825, Rebecca Rutter, 
of Philadelphia, who died May 16, 1871, at 
the age of sixty-five years. Their surviving 
children are: William B., Rebecca, who 
married G. L. Suttie, of New York, and 
Mary E., who married David C. Burnite, of 
Harrisburg. 



Weir, James Wallace, youngest son of 
Samuel and Mary (Wallace) Weir, was born 
August 9, 1805, at Harrisburg, Pa. He re- 
ceived a good education, excelled as a scholar 
and his taste for study and reading drew 
him toward the printing office. He learned 
the art with John S. Wiestling, and after his 
apprenticeship spent some time in the 
printing-house of the Messrs. Johnson, of 
Philadelphia. On November 26, 1833, hav- 
ing been chosen teller of the Harrisburg 
Bank, he accepted that position, holding it 
until October 30, 1844, when he was chosen 
cashier of the bank. When the institution 
became a national bank in 1874, he was 
unanimously elected its cashier, which office 
he held until his death, which occurred at 
Harrisburg, March 14, 1878, having been 
connected with the bank for over forty-four 
years. As a bank officer and financier he 
gained an enviable distinction for his uni- 
form courtesy and for ability of the highest 
order. Few bankers in the Commonwealth 
can present a record equal to his in years of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



229 



service, in successful administration of affairs 
through financial trouble, and for such rigid 
honesty. He was gifted with rare social 
qualities and a graceful wit, which made 
him one of the most companionable of men. 
To the poor and lowly he was always a kind 
and true friend and his charities, though 
not ostentatious, were made with a free and 
open hand. His literary taste and ability 
were of a higli order, and he frequently 
wrote for the press. He was the author of 
several religious tracts, published by the 
American Sunday-school Union. In 1838 
appeared a small volume, " Manual of 
Prayer," which was published with an in- 
troduction by Rev. Albert Barnes, of Phila- 
delphia. In 1854, " The Closet Companion " 
appeared, and passed through several edi- 
tions. In the Presbyterian church, of which 
he was many years an elder, as in every 
walk and pursuit in life, he was active, en- 
ergetic, consistent, pure in character, and 
lofty in purpose. 



Smuller, George, son of John Smuller 
(1780-1840) and Susanna Shirtz (1782-1864), 
was born October 7, 1805, at Jonestown, Leb- 
anon county, Pa. He acquired a fair Eng- 
lish education in the schools of his da} r , and 
in early life followed the occupation of a 
tailor. He subsequently became extensively 
engaged in the lumber business with the 
Union Canal Company and a contractor in 
the public works of the State. He was after- 
wards appointed collector of tolls in a 
Union canal at Middletown, a position he 
filled many years, resigning in 1857, when he 
was elected president of the Middletown 
Bank. As first officer of that institution Mr. 
Smuller won for himself the highest confi- 
dence in the community, which he retained 
down to the close of his busy and active life. 
He died at Middletown on August 19, 1882, 
aged almost seventy -seven years. Few men 
stood higher in the community than he. His 
life was characterized by great goodness of 
heart and true nobleness of soul, which won 
for him the love and esteem of his fellow- 
men and neighbors. Mr. Smuller married 
Caroline Fisher, daughter of Dr. Karl and 
Mary Fisher, of Middletown, born 1805 at 
Middletown ; died January 5, 1870. Their 
children were : Lehman, d. s. p.. Mary, Eliz- 
abeth, married George F. Mish, M. D., Annie 
G., married Henry J. Meily, Ellen, married 
David G. Swartz, of Chicago, and Caroline. 



Rutherford, John Brisbax, son of Sam- 
uel Rutherford, was born on the 28th of Nov- 
ember, 1805, in Swatara township, Dauphin 
county, Pa.; died on the 10th of October, 
1892, on the farm where he was born. 
Being the only surviving son, he succeeded 
to the farm property of his father upon his 
death, November 26, 1833, and made farm- 
ing his main business through life. In 
early manhood, Mr. Rutherford was elected 
captain of the Dauphin cavalry, hence his 
military title. He was active in politics, 
and was elected member of the Legislature 
on the Whig ticket in 1848, and re-elected 
in 1849. In 1857 he was elected to the 
State Senate for three years, on the Republi- 
can ticket. He was treasurer of the Penn- 
sylvania State Agricultural Society for a long 
time — elected in 1864 and served twenty- 
five years. Mr. Rutherford was identified 
with the various offices in his township, and 
in old Paxtang church was a ruling elder. 
He married, March 19, 1833, Keziah Parke, 
died July 2, 1885 ; daughter of Col. James 
Parke, of Parkesburg, Chester countv, Pa. 



Dougherty, Philip, son of Dennis and 
Catherine (Maginty) Dougherty, was born 
March 24, 1806, near Middletown, Dauphin 
count}', Pa. His father came to America 
from Ireland about 1S05, and settled in 
Derry township, not far from Middletown, 
where he died about 1824. His wife, whom 
he married in Ireland, died about 1845, in 
Harrisburg. Their children were Mary, who 
married Hugh Dougherty, and John, both 
born in Ireland ; Philip, the subject of this 
sketch, James, Catherine, who married 
Edward Sweeny, Dennis, Charles, Hugh, 
and Daniel. From the age of eighteen Philip 
Dougherty was busily engaged as a contrac- 
tor on canals and railroads, and was largely 
engaged in the construction of important 
public works, such as the Pennsylvania 
canal, the Chesapeake and Ohio canal, Del- 
aware and Raritan canal, Union canal, 
Lehigh canal, Northern Central railroad. 
New York and Erie railroad, Camden and 
Amboy railroad, and the Dauphin and Sus- 
quehanna railroad. He continued in the 
business until February, 1853, when he was 
chosen president of the Mechanics' Bank of 
Harrisburg, organized at that time, a position 
which he filled until his death, which 
occurred at Harrisburg, February 3, 1865, in 
his fifty-ninth year. He was also a director 
of the Northern Central railroad, the Mid- 



230 



BIO GEA PHI GAL ENGYCL OP EDI A 



dletown Bank and the Harrisburg Gas Com- 
pany, of which he was one of the founders. 
Mr. Dougherty was very successful in busi- 
ness, combining great energy and force of 
character with quick perception, sound judg- 
ment and strict integrity. He dispensed a 
liberal hospitality to his many friends, and 
enjoyed the respect and confidence of his fel- 
low-citizens. Of a warm and generous nature, 
his feelings, impulses and actions were of an 
elevated character, and his friendship per- 
manent, strong and useful. He was ever 
ready to aid the deserving and relieve the 
unfortunate, and in all respects was a valued 
member of the community. Mr. Dougherty 
married, June 10, 1833, at New Brunswick, 
N. J., Mary W., daughter of John and 
Rebecca (Whiteside) Clark. Mrs. Dougherty 
was born 1813. Their children who reached 
maturit} 7 were James Dennis, who graduated 
at Georgetown College, class of 1857, was a 
lawyer by profession, and a captain of artil- 
lery during the Rebellion, and colonel on 
the staff of Governor Packer, of Pennsyl- 
vania, and died April 2, 1878 ; William E., 
for many years engaged in the hanking busi- 
ness in Harrisburg, and later resident clerk 
of the United States Senate, at Washington, 
D. C, and Mary F., who married Bernard J. 
McGrann, contractor and banker, of Lancas- 
ter, Pa. 



in its main features remained the tariff law 
until the last revision. At the time of his 
death General Moorehead was president of 
the Chamber of Commerce and also of the 
Mouongahela Navigation Compan}'. 



Moorehead, Gen. James K., of Pittsburgh, 
died March 6, 1884. He was born in Hali- 
fax, Dauphin county, seventy-eight years 
ago, and after obtaining a good business 
education began a connection with the pub- 
lic improvement of the State, which was 
only severed by his death. When only 
twenty-two years old he was appointed super- 
intendent of the Juniata branch of the Penn- 
sylvania canal. He afterwards established the 
Pioneer Passenger Packet Line, running be- 
tween Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. In 1839 
lie was appointed adjutant general of the 
State, but declined the office. In 1858 General 
Moorehead was elected to Congress by the 
Republicans of the Twenty-first Congres- 
sional district, and retained that position 
until 1869, when he refused to be again a 
candidate. During the last three terms of 
his service in Congress he was chairman of 
the committee on manufactures, and a mem- 
ber of the ways and means and on naval 
affairs. The Moorehead tariff bill was for- 
mulated and reported by a sub-committee of 
which General Moorehead was chairman, and 



Loomis, Anthony Wayne, eldest son of 
Ashbel Loomis and Mary Scott, was born 
April 11, 1806, at Alstead, N. H. The 
Loomis family in America is descended 
from Joseph Loomis, who emigrated from 
Braintree, county Essex, England, in 1638, 
and settled at Windsor, Conn. One of his 
descendants was Eleazer Loomis, who mar- 
ried Jemima Crandall and removed from 
Tolland, Conn., to Alstead, N. H., in 1783. 
He died March 17, 1822, and his wife in 
April, 1838, at Alstead. Their son, Ashbel 
Loomis, born September 16, 1779, married 
Sarah Scott, daughter of Capt. William 
Scott, one of the first settlers of Peterbor- 
ough, N. H. Captain Scott was born in 
May, 1733, in Townsend, Mass.; served in 
the French and Indian war from 1756 to 
1758 in Canada ; was in the war of the Rev- 
olution, and after the peace of 1783 was a 
government surveyor on the Western lakes. 
He died in Litchfield, September 19, 1796, 
from sickness caused by exposure in his sur- 
veying expeditions. Ashbel Loomis died 
August 31, 1824, and his wife, Sarah Scott, 
September 10, 1841. They had four chil- 
dren : Anthony Wayne, William, Nancy, 
married Horace Hamblit, and Mary, mar- 
ried Lewis Slader. Anthony W. Loomis 
came to Pennsylvania in 1827, and began 
teaching. He first taught a writing school 
at Liverpool, and next year at Harrisburg. 
He subsequently engaged in the lumber 
trade near the foot of Berry's mountain (now 
the Wiconisco canal site), and afterwards 
turned his attention to farming. In 1841 
he established the Halifax Herald, which he 
edited and published about two years, when 
he began merchandising, lumbering and 
farming until his death, which occurred at 
Halifax, August 4, 1864. He was an expert 
penman, having learned the art under the 
best masters in Boston, and for a third of a 
century was one of the leading business men 
in the region of Halifax. Mr. Loomis was 
twice married ; first, June 3, 1835, to Maria 
Brubaker, of Halifax, born March 5, 1814, 
died May 28, 1843, daughter of Joseph and 
Barbara Brubaker, and there was issue : 
Albert Scott, Daniel Brubaker, Barbara Am;, 
and William Anthony ; secondly, April 2, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



231 



1844, to Mary Murray, of Middletown, born 
March 14, 1818, daughter of Francis Murray 
and Margaret Snyder, and there was issue : 
Francis Murray, Charles Cass, George Otis, 
Walter Jefferson, Sarah Margaret, and Mary 
Agnes. 

Ross, Robert James, son of Andrew Ross, 
a native of Londonderry, Ireland, who came 
to America about 1800, and his wife, Hannah 
Templin, of Chester county Pa., was born at 
Georgetown, D. C, in 1807. He received a 
good English and classical education and 
was appointed by President John Quincy 
Adams midshipman in the United States 
navy August, 1826, and subsequently pro- 
moted for meritorious conduct and services. 
Shortly after his marriage he resigned and 
was appointed teller in the Branch Bank of 
Pennsylvania, at Harrisburg, then under the 
cashiership of James Lesley. In 1839 he 
was tendered the position of cashier in the 
Harrisburg Savings Institution, which he ac- 
cepted, and when this corporation became 
the Dauphin Deposit Bank he remained its 
cashier until his death. Mr. Ross died at 
Harrisburg October 6, 1861. He was enter- 
prising and successful in business and stood 
high in financial circles. He married, in 
1833, Mary E., daughter of Jacob M. Halde- 
man and Eliza Ewing Jacobs, who died at 
Harrisburg in 1873, aged fifty-nine years. 
They had children : Jacob H., d. s. p., An- 
drew, Jacob Haldemaii, Eliza, Hannah, mar- 
ried Colonel Reno, United States army, 
Roberta, married J. Wilson Orth,and Robert. 



Johnson, Ovid Frazer, was born in the 
year 1807, in the Valley of Wyoming, near 
the town of Wilkes-Barre ; died February, 
1854, in Washington, D. C. He was de- 
scended from some of the early settlers of 
that historical locality. His paternal grand- 
father, the Rev. Jacob Johnson, was a su- 
perior linguist and man of rich education 
and culture; a graduate of Yale College, he 
took his degree as early as 1740. with dis- 
tinguished honor. In 1778 he was called 
from his home in Connecticut to reside in 
Wilkes-Barre. After that terrible event, the 
massacre of Wyoming, he assisted Colonel 
Dennison with his advice and influence, in 
protecting the inhabitants that remained, 
and the original articles of capitulation 
were in the proper handwriting of Mr. 
Johnson. In quite a lengthy biography, 
written of him in the year 1836 by the 



historian of Wyoming, Charles Miner, ap- 
pears this : " When the Revolutionary war 
broke out, Mr. Johnson took his stand early 
and firmly in behalf of freedom. And 
through the whole contest he rendered the 
utmost service in his power, which, from 
his learning, talents, and the respect he 
commanded, was very considerable. A son, 
born while the animated discussions preced- 
ing the Revolution were going on and the 
elder Pitt was thundering his anathemas 
against ministers for their tyrannous con- 
duct to the Colonies, Mr. Johnson named Je- 
hoiada Pitt. . . . Jehoiada is sometime 
since deceased, but a son of his with heredi- 
tary genius is winning his way to enviable 
distinction." The latter is the subject of 
this sketch. At the close of his early educa- 
tion, in which he had as school and class- 
mates many who afterwards rose to posi- 
tions of eminence and distinction, he com- 
menced the study of law with John N. 
Conyngham, of Wilkes-Barre, afterwards 
Judge Conyngham. He was duly admitted 
to the bar and entered into the practice of 
the law at that place. In 1833 he removed 
to Harrisburg, and there married. In 1839, 
at the early age of thirty-two years, his 
talent secured for him the appointment as 
attorney general of Pennsylvania. In 1842, 
his term of office having expired, he was re- 
appointed and served through a second 
term until 1845. As an orator, Mr. John- 
son was brilliant; as a lawyer, he had su- 
perior abilities, and somewhat of a wide- 
known reputation, being frequently em- 
ployed to try cases in different States of the 
Union. It may be here remarked that, in 
addition to Mr. Johnson's legal ability, he 
had a high reputation as a political writer. 
He was the author of the celebrated " Gov- 
ernor's Letters," published during the admin- 
istration of Governor Ritner, and which 
purported to give the ludicrous side to the 
political characters then figuring in the 
politics of the State. Mr. Johnson married 
Jane Alricks, daughter of James Alricks. 
She was born in 1808 at Oakland Mills, in 
Lost Creek Valley, now Juniata county, Pa., 
and died December 21, 1891, at Harrisburg, 
Pa. Of their children, Ovid Frazer Johnson 
is a prominent lawyer at the Philadelphia 
bar. 



Buehler, William, son of George Buehler 
and Maria Nagle, was born in the year 1808, 
at Erie, Pa. His father removed from Erie 



232 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



to Harrisburg in 1813, and died at that 
place in 1816. When a young man, the son 
went to Chambersburg, where he learned the 
mercantile trade. He subsequent!}' removed 
to Philadelphia, where he was engaged as a 
merchant in the hardware business. He re- 
turned to Harrisburg about December, 1848, 
and took charge of the Buehler House which 
had been conducted by the family since 
1818. Here he remained several years when 
he embarked in the insurance business, then 
comparatively in its infancy, and became 
State agent for the insurance company of 
North America. The result was the establish- 
ment of one of the largest insurance depart- 
ments in the State, successfully and reliably 
carried on until his death. It was not alone 
in the business walks of life that Mr. Buehler 
was widely known and esteemed. For many 
years he was a prominent and active mem- 
ber of the Protestant Episcopal Church ; was 
warden of St. Stephen's church, and the 
superintendent of its Sunday-school for a 
long period. He represented his church in 
different dioceses to which he belonged, and 
took an earnest part in all questions that 
arose therein relating to the extension and 
prosperity of the church. From theorganiza- 
tion of the diocese of Central Pennsylvania 
until his decease, he had been the treasurer 
thereof, a most responsible position, and by 
his good judgment, liberality and kindness, 
did much to advance the financial interests 
of the new diocese. He was identified with 
the successful establishment of the Home of 
the Friendless, the City Hospital, and a 
member and officer of the Harrisburg Benev- 
olent Society which has done so much to 
relieve the poor and needy of the city. In 
every organized effort for public charity he 
took an active part, contributing and counsel- 
ing, and working with his own hands to 
promote good works in others. But his in- 
dividual charities were the most character- 
istic of the man, for it was by these that " he 
established for himself a brotherhood with 
men which made his name blessed among 
them." He died suddenly at Harrisburg on 
Sunday morning, June 12, 1881, aged seventy- 
three years. Mr. Buehler married, May 17, 
1831, at Chambersburg, Pa., Henrietta R. 
Snyder. Their children were: Anna, mar- 
ried Robert A. Lamberton,LL. D.; Elizabeth, 
married, first, Charles Hammond, secondly, 
H. Stanly Goodwin ; Catharine, married Capt. 
George Ramsey, U. S. A. ; Dr. Henry B., 
William, and Edward. 



Kepner, William H., son of- Samuel 

Kepner and Sarah , was born in 1810, 

in Bern township, Berks county, Pa. His 
father was a millwright, came to Harrisburg 
in 1823, and erected the first steam flour 
mill in the neighborhood of Harrisburg. 
William H. adopted the business and trade 
of his father, and at the death of the latter 
continued the business, acquiring an exten- 
sive reputation in this and adjoining States 
for the superior quality of his millstones. 
For a period of twenty years Mr. Kepner 
filled various prominent positions in the 
municipal affairs of the borough and the 
city. He served several terms in the old 
town council, and upon the amendment of 
the borough charter was elected the council- 
man-at-large. He was elected the first mayor 
of the city of Harrisburg, an office he filled 
with becoming dignity. He was at one time 
the Democratic candidate for associate judge 
of the count}', and although his party were 
greatly in the minority, came within a small 
vote of an election. . He was one of the or- 
ganizers and president of the Harrisburg 
Fire Association. In all public positions he 
was faithful to his trust, and conscientiously 
exercised the authority reposed in his hands. 
In the city of his adoption he took a large 
and liberal interest in its growth and general 
prosperity. He died January 18, 1871, at 
Harrisburg, aged sixty years. Mr. Kepner 
married, in 1842, Cassandra Loucks, daughter 
of George Loucks (1786-1849) and Susan 
Weltzhoffer (1795-1842), of York county, 
Pa., and their surviving children are George 
L. and Ida J., married 0. P. Good, of Har- 
risburg. 



Fleming, James, son of Samuel Fleming 
and grandson of Robert Fleming, was born 
June 25, 1810, in Hanover township, Wash- 
ington county, Pa.; died January 30, 1857, 
in Harrisburg, Pa. In 1812 his parents re- 
moved to Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., where his early life was passed. 
His boyhood was marked by a laudable am- 
bition to excel in his studies, and the influ- 
ence of his mother in this direction had its 
good effect, not only during his youth, but 
throughout his life. Thrown upon his own 
resources at the age of eighteen, he resolved 
to educate himself by alternately acting as 
teacher and pupil, and pursued this course 
for seven years, thereby becoming convers- 
ant with the higher mathematics, the ancient 
languages and French. Much of his time 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



235 



was passed in the States of Kentucky and 
Ohio. About 1835 he commenced the study 
of medicine, and graduated at Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, in March, 
1838. For four years he practiced his pro- 
fession, but finding tbe duties too arduous for 
his slender constitution, his attention was 
drawn to the science of dental surgerj', then 
comparatively in its infancy. Observing the 
necessity for good operators in this field, he 
went to Philadelphia and acquired a thorough 
knowledge of that specialty. Returning to 
Harrisburg, he met with deserved and well- 
marked success. During the remainder of 
his life he was a frequent contributor to both 
medical and dental journals, and occasionally 
to the newspaper press. lie was a member 
of tbe Pennsylvania Association of Dental 
Surgeons and of the American Society, and 
one of the original advocates of the establish- 
ment of a dental college at Philadelphia, in 
which he was subsequently tendered a pro- 
fessorship, but declined. He was twice the 
recipient of the honorary degree of Doctor of 
Dental Surgery. Pie was a director of the 
Harrisburg National Bank, president of the 
board of school directors and an elder of the 
First Presbyterian church there. Dr. Flem- 
ing married, June, 1852, Jennette Street, 
daughter of Col. Thaddeus Street and Martha 
Davenport Reynolds, of Cheshire, Conn., a 
lineal descendant of Rev. John Davenport, 
the founder of New Haven. Her maternal 
grandmother, Martha Davenport, was a de- 
scendant of Oliver Wolcott, a signer of tbe 
Declaration of Independence. She resided in 
German town, Pa. 



Zimmerman, Philip, son of Henry and 
Barbara (Greiner) Zimmerman, was born No- 
vember 22, 1812. He spent his early boy- 
hood days amid the rural scenes of a quiet 
farm life. His early school days were spent 
botb at Churchville and Highspire. He 
early evinced an active disposition for busi- 
ness. He resided for several years on the 
farm near Middletown, now owned by Will- 
iam H. Ulrich. He exchanged this farm 
with David Brenneman, of Middletown, and 
moved to that place into the house that is 
now occupied by L. F. Hemperly. Pie first 
ran the old saw mill on Race street, and soon 
after sold this house to L. F. Hemperly and 
built for himself the house which Mrs. Sey- 
mour Raymond occupies. He engaged in 
business with Dr. Mercer Brown as Brown 
& Zimmerman, having a lumber yard and a 
19 



saw mill at the "Point." Dr. Brown having 
retired, he associated himself with Joseph 
Lescure in the same business as Zimmerman 
& Lescure. The firm, after doing a large 
trade for several years, was, owing to losses 
and misfortune, compelled to make an as- 
signment and relinquish business. He was 
always active and energetic, and after this 
failure he was engaged in a number of en- 
terprises, but none of them proved to be very 
successful. He was married to Mary Vogle, 
daughter of the late Henry Vogle; she died 
November 26, 1881 ; by whom he had three 
daughters : Mrs. Kate Stofer, renowned as 
being the first editress of Pennsylvania, 
resided in Middletown ; Mrs. Ada Camp- 
bell, of Reading, Pa., and Mary, who died in 
infancy, and three sons, Joseph and William, 
who died in infancy, and Simon, who was un- 
fortunately drowned in the Swatara creek, 
by the upsetting of a sail boat, when he was 
about twenty years of age. At the time of 
his death Mr. Zimmerman was living with 
his daughter, Ada Campbell, in Reading, and 
was interred by the side of his wife in the 
Middletown cemetery. He was a man of 
most amiable disposition, possessed a rather 
philosophical mind and seemed to take little 
interest in the political events that were tran- 
spiring about him. He died July 6, 1889, 
from the effects of a stroke of paralysis. His 
death caused many a deep regret and sincere 
sorrow on the part of all who ever had the 
good fortune to live in the atmosphere of his 
generous disposition and chivalric kindness. 



Landis, Samuel, the son of Abraham 
Landis and Susannah Reinoehl, was born at 
Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa., June 22, 
1813. His father was a native of Berks 
county, and came to Dauphin county shortly 
after his marriage. His father dying while 
the son was only eleven years old, he was 
taken from school and put to merchandising, 
first at Halifax and afterwards at Harris- 
burg. With a. limited education he applied 
himself to stud}', and when about twenty he 
taught school during the winter. About 
1835 he purchased a store at Halifax, and 
was in continued mercantile business thirty 
years. In 1851 he removed to his farm near 
Halifax, but commissioned justice of the 
peace April 10, 1855, he returned to the town. 
In 18G1 he was elected associate judge of the 
county. From February, 1874, until his 
death, March 8, L876, he was cashier of the 
Real Estate Bank at Harrisburg. Judge 



236 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Landis married, June 22, 1836, Margaret 
Kinter, daughter of Isaac Kinter and Eliza- 
beth Henry, of Rockville, who survived hirn. 
In church matters he took a prominent part, 
held the position of recording steward of the 
Methodist Episcopal church thirty years, was 
a. member of the first Sunday-school organ- 
ized at Halifax, of which for many years he 
was the superintendent. By his will he 
donated $500 for the benefit of the library. 
Judge Landis was a faithful and zealous 
Christian gentleman. He was a vice-presi- 
dent of the Dauphin County Historical So- 
ciety at the time of his death. 

Simmons, George Washington, son of 
Robert and Sarah (Ward) Simmons, was 
born February 17, 1814, in Lower Paxtang 
township, Dauphin county, Pa. His father 
was a native of Paxtang, of English ancestry, 
and died about 1859, aged seventy-five years. 
He married Sarah, daughter of John and 
Elizabeth (Whitley) Ward. She died at 
Dauphin at the age of seventy-three. The 
children of Robert Simmons and his | wife 
Sarah Ward were, George Washington, John, 
Jane, who married Samuel Fertig, Matilda, 
who married a Mr. McCollough, Robert, and 
Mary, who married Revere Hetzel. George 
W. passed his early years on his father's 
farm, came to Harrisburg in 1831, and 
learned chair-making with George W. Boyd. 
After serving his apprenticeship, he began 
business for himself, which he carried on 
about ten years. He was for three years in 
charge of a packet-boat on the Pennsylvania 
canal, and from 1849 to 1862, a baggage- 
master on the Pennsylvania railroad. He 
was subsequently elected warden of the 
Dauphin county prison, a position he filled 
fourteen years, when he retired from active 
life. Mr. Simmons married, in 1836, Eliza- 
beth Bates, of Middle Paxtang, and their 
children were : John, who died at Philadel- 
phia in 1881, William Henry, Major Oliver, 
Annie, Martha, who married Nelson Kilgore, 
and Frank. 



Rutherford, Abner, son of William 
Rutherford, was born March 31, 1814, in 
Swatara township, Dauphin county, Pa. ; 
died September 2, 1891, and was buried 
at Paxtang. He received the education 
afforded by the select schools of Paxtang 
Valley, and was a farmer hy occupation. The 
last fifteen years of his life he was president 
of the First National Bank of Hummelstown ; 



was identified with other corporations, and 
active in various local enterprises of his day. 
He was one of the early members of the 
Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society, and in 
1835 was captaui of the Tenth companj', 
Ninety-eighth regiment, Pennsylvania mili- 
tia. For many years he was one of the vice- 
presidents of the Pennsylvania State Agri- 
cultural Society, in the founding of which he 
took a prominent part. His energy and 
ability, combined with his business habits, 
produced that success which generally fol- 
lows. Mr. Rutherford married, February 
28, 1839, Ann Espy, youngest daughter of 
William Espy, of Swatara. 



Boas, Col. Frederick Krause, son of 
Frederick Boas (1785-1817) and Elizabeth 
Krause (1797-1847), was born April 5, 1815, 
at Harrisburg, Pa., and died there February 
15, 1891. He attended the schools of the 
borough until his sixteenth year. From Au- 
gust, 1832, to April, 1838, he was a clerk in 
the Harrisburg postoffice, then assistant post- 
master, as superintendent (not regularly) un- 
til Ju^, 1843. He studied law with the late 
Judge Krause, and was admitted to the Dau- 
phin county bar August 22, 1837, in which 
profession he has been since engaged. He 
was appointed by Governor Porter aid on his 
staff, with the rank of colonel, which he held 
from 1839 to 1845 ; was school director from 
1839 to 1848, being treasurer of the board 
from 1840 to 1842, and also served in the 
borough council six years, from 1843 to 1849. 
Colonel Boas married, in 1871, Sarah C. 
Nolen, daughter of William and Maria Nolen, 
of Harrisburg. 



Briggs, John Hanna, son of Joseph Briggs 
and Caroline E. Hanna, was born in 1815, at 
Silvers Spring, Cumberland county, Pa. His 
ancestors were of English descent and early 
settlers in Pennsylvania. He received a 
classical education and was a graduate of 
Rutger's College, New Jersey. Returning to 
Harrisburg, where his parents had made 
their home, he began the study of law with 
James McCormick, then one of the leading 
lawyers at the capital, and was admitted to 
the Dauphin county bar April 18, 1837, and 
at once entered upon a successful practice of 
his profession. Mr. Briggs took a prominent 
interest in municipal affairs, was nine years 
a member of borough council, of which body 
he was eight years president. He was a di- 
rector of the old Harrisburg Bank, of the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



237 



Harrisburg Bridge Company, and president 
of the First National Bank of Harrisburg at 
the time of his death, which took place March 
29, 1872, in the fifty-seventh year of his age. 
" He had gained," says Rev. Dr. Robinson, 
" the reputation of a wise and able counselor, 
and an untarnished name. He was a most 
upright citizen, useful, patriotic and public- 
spirited. He was a true friend, generous and 
forbearing. His social qualities and gentle- 
manly bearing surrounding him with friends." 
Mr. Briggs married Julian Tod, daughter of 
Judge John Tod and Mary R. Hanna. 

Irwin, Philip, son of Henry Irwin (died 
1815) and Margaret Fisher (1777-1859), was 
born August 30, 1815, in Lancaster county, 
Pa. His educational advantages were com- 
prised in one or two winters at a country 
school. By self-application and industry, 
however, he became well informed, and with 
great activity and energy was generally suc- 
cessful in his enterprises. For many years 
he was engaged in building railroads, the 
scene of his operations being the Northern 
Central, Ohio and Mississippi, Erie, Lebanon 
Valley, Lake Shore, Michigan Southern, and 
other railroads. Although an active politi- 
cian he never sought or held office, his busi- 
ness interests requiring all his time and at- 
tention. He died at Middletown on the 11th 
of December, 1878, aged sixty-three years. 
Mr. Irwin married, November 24, 1840, 
Anna Eliza Etter, daughter of George Etter 
and Nancy Shelly, who survived him. Their 
children were Margaret, Ann, Mary Ellen, 
George Henry, Franklin Etter, Jenny Lind, 
Philip Etter, and Lillian. 

Sheesley, Daniel, son of Daniel Sheesley 
and Mary Elizabeth Reigle, was born Sep- 
tember 16, 1815, in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county, Pa. His education was 
quite limited. He came to Harrisburg at 
the age of twelve, and in'its vicinity his life 
was passed. • For many years he was en- 
gaged in the milling business, was an auc- 
tioneer and trucker. He served one term 
as director of the poor, and was one of the 
directors of schools for Swatara township for 
a long period. He died at Harrisburg on 
the 21st of June, 1880, in his sixty-fifth year. 
He was a very pleasant and agreeahle com- 
panion, extremely sociable and kind. Mr. 
Sheesley married, in 1837, Sarah Rissing, 
daughter of Lewis and Mary Rissing, and 
their children are William, former sheriff of 



the county of Dauphin, Mary, married Peter 
Reel, Sarah, Elizabeth, married John H. 
Tattnall, Daniel, Louisa, married Joseph E. 
Rhoads, Samuel, John, George, Lewis, Cath- 
arine L., and Margaret J. 



Kunkel, John Christian, son of George 
Kunkel, was born September 18, 1810, in 
Harrisburg, Pa.; died October 14, 1870, in 
Harrisburg, Pa. He received a liberal scien- 
tific and classical education in the schools at 
Gettysburg and at Jefferson College, Cannons- 
burg, at which latter institution he gradu- 
ated. After leaving college he entered the 
Carlisle law school under Judge Read, subse- 
quently reading law with James McCor- 
mick, and admitted to the Dauphin county 
bar. After his admission to the bar he re- 
mained several years in the office with Mr. 
McCormick. He rapidly gained a large 
practice and a reputation which few mem- 
bers of the bar enjoy. He also became ac- 
tive in politics, and, in the earnest and ex- 
citing campaign of 1844, when the young 
men of the Nation had made Henry Clay, 
then in the zenith of his career, their stand- 
ard-bearer, the best talent and most brilliant 
eloquence that ever graced the American 
rostrum was called into requisition. Amid 
all the magnificent display and power of logic, 
that of the orator of Pennsylvania, as Mr. Kun- 
kel was recognized, was conspicuous as well 
for force of argument as for grace of delivery. 
The same year he was elected to the Legis- 
lature, re-elected in 1845, and again in 1850. 
In 1851 he was elected to the State Senate, 
and was chosen speaker of that body at the 
close of the first session of his term. As a 
legislator Mr. Kunkel was prominent for the 
wisdom of his counsel as well as for the 
power of his eloquence. His services at the 
capital added greatly to his already wide 
reputation as a pure statesman and accom- 
plished scholar. In 1854 and again in 1S50 
he was elected to the United States Congress. 
During the four years he spent in Washington 
city, he was regarded throughout the country 
as one of the ablest statesmen at the na- 
tional capital. In 1858 he retired from public 
life, and gave his exclusive attention to the 
practice of his profession, varying the course 
of his life by occasionally helping a friend 
in apolitical canvass, and, wherever he went 
he was always the favorite of the people. In 
1868 he was stricken down with paralysis, 
and never fully regained his health, dying 
as previously stated. Perchance the loss of 



238 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



no member of the Dauphin county bar was 
so severely felt as that of Mr. Kunkel, if we 
are to judge of the glowing, sincere and fra- 
ternal tributes paid to his memory by his 
brethren in the profession at the time of his 
death. Mr. Kunkel married, October 20, 
1857, Elizabeth Grain Rutherford, daughter 
of Dr. William Wilson Rutherford and Elea- 
nor Crain ; she resided at Harrisburg, Pa. 



Eby, Jacob Rupley, the son of Ephraim C. 
Eby (1783-1838) and Susanna Rupley (1784- 
1844), was 'born November 18, 1816, at 
Columbia, Lancaster county, Pa. His father, 
born near Lancaster, was a miller by occupa- 
tion, and belonged to the Mennonites — 
"never went to law and never voted." He 
had seven children. Ephraim C. Eby died at 
Middletown, owning at the time the mill 
at Highspire. Jacob R. was brought up to 
the business of his father until the age of 
fifteen, in the meantime enjoying the advan- 
tages of the education afforded by the pay- 
schools of that day. He learned the trade of 
a carpenter. After serving his apprentice- 
ship he took a trip South, working at his 
trade, returning, however, at the end of ten 
months, when he entered mercantile life. 
While thus engaged, Messrs. Cameron, Lau- 
man & Clark, who were building the im- 
provements at Wrightsville, known as the 
Tide-water canal and Columbia dam, offered 
him a position which he accepted. This 
gave him an insight into the building of 
public works, when his industry, integrity 
and capacity attracted the favorable notice 
of a prominent lumber merchant of Middle- 
town, who gave him an interest in his busi- 
ness simply on account of his superior quali- 
fications and without requiring the invest- 
ment of capital. He retained this valuable 
position for six years, when he disposed of 
his interest to advantage, and with his 
brother E. C. Eby purchased the stock and 
good-will of the grocery and forwarding busi- 
ness of John H. Brant, on one of the best 
sites in that city. The business subsequently 
was conducted by himself and sons. A fixed, 
indestructible purpose, a determination to 
excel, were the active agencies which led to 
his prosperous career. He was eminentlj' 
the architect of his own fortune — a self-made 
man. Mr. Eby was largely interested in 
many of the industrial establishments of the 
city, being a stockholder and director of the 
Harrisburg car and machine and foundry 
works. He was president for several years 



of the First National Bank and likewise of the 
State Agricultural Society. He was warmly 
devoted to the interest of the young, and 
among them was a particular favorite for his 
pleasing manners and kindness of heart. 
For thirty years he had been connected with 
the First Lutheran Sunday-school, either as 
teacher or superintendent, at the time of his 
death being in charge of the third depart- 
ment. During all those years his walk in 
life was eminently consistent. He was at the 
time of his death a prison inspector, which 
position he held for many years. He died 
February 11, 1883, at Harrisburg, in his 
sixty-seventh year. Mr. Eby was married in 
1843 to Elizabeth Gross, who survived him. 
They had three children, Maurice, William 
Howard, and Fannie. 



Eppley, Daniel, son of George and Susan 
(Brookhart) Eppley, was born July 26, 1817, 
in Fishing Creek Valley, Fairview township, 
York county, Pa. He was educated in the 
common schools of the neighborhood and 
brought up on his father's farm. On October 
6, 1834, he came to Harrisburg and entered 
the dry goods store of George and Bernard 
Geiger, where he remained six years, when 
he made an engagement with Messrs. Elder 
& Piper, in the same business. In April, 
1847, he established himself in the mercan- 
tile trade, which he successfully conducted 
until in 1870 he retired from all business 
pursuits. On the organization of the Far- 
mers' Bank, of Harrisburg, in May, 1872, 
Mr. Eppley was chosen a director of that in- 
stitution. He served in the various munici- 
pal offices of school director, city and county 
auditor, and also one of the trustees of the 
State Lunatic Hospital at Harrisburg. Mr. 
Eppley married, June 2, 1845, Louisa, daugh- 
ter of Bernard and Charlotte Geiger, of Har- 
risburg. She died March 2, 1849, leaving a 
daughter, Mary Lavina, who married Walter 
B. Fahnestock, of Pittsburgh, both dead, 
leaving two children. His second wife was 
Anna Maria, daughter of George J. and Anna 
Maria (Kurtz) fleisle} r , of Harrisburg, and 
their children were: Edward Kurtz, Helen 
Elizabeth, who married William H. Lyter, 
and Annie Maria. 



Cowden, John Wallace, son of Matthew 
Benjamin and Mary (Wallace) Cowden, was 
born on the 29th of August, 1817, in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa. 
His father was long in public life, and for 



DAUPI11N COUNTY. 



239 



years was an associate judge of the county. 
John Wallace was brought up as a farmer, 
but as he grew to rnaturer years his atten- 
tion was turned to surveying, and he came 
to Harrisburg, where his latter days were 
passed as a practical surveyor, and where he 
died July 22, 1872. " He was," writes a 
contemporary, "an unobtrusive, modest 
and estimable citizen, successful in his busi- 
ness, trustworthy in all the relations of life, 
and a sincere and earnest Christian." Mr. 
Cowden married Mary E., daughter of 
Frederick and Mary (Barnett) Hattou, of 
Lower Paxton. They left a large family. 



Cos, John Bowes, son of John Bowes Cox 
(1780-1831) and Matilda Willis McAllister 
(1787-1858), was born November 19, 1817, 
at Estherton, Pa. He was descended from 
Dr. John Cox, who laid out Estherton, whose 
son was Col. Cornelius Cox, of the Revolu- 
tion, father of John B. Cox, Sr. The chil- 
dren of the latter were Catharine Mary, mar- 
ried A. 0. Hiester, Elizabeth, married Adam 
H. Orth, Matilda Willis, John B., George 
Washington, d. s. p., Rachel, Esther Amelia, 
married Joseph E. Piolett, Cornelius, and 
George W., deceased. 

Of the foregoing, John B. was educated 
at the academies at Lititz, Burlington, N. J., 
West Chester, and York, Pa. He learned 
the profession of civil engineer, which occu- 
pation he pursued several years, subse- 
quently engaging for a long period in flour 
and saw-milling enterprises, when he retired 
from active pursuits. Mr. Cox married, in 
1844, Rebecca E. Lightner, daughter of John 
and Rebecca Lightner, of Pequea, Lancaster 
county, Pa., and their children were : Ma- 
tilda ' Willis, deceased, Mary Richardson, 
married Edward H. Buehler, John Bowes, 
Rebecca Hopkins, Edward Buchanau, and 
Catharine Hiester. 



Bomberger, Jacob Cauffman, was born 
December 16, 1817, at Middletown, Pa. He 
was the fifth in descent from Christian Bom- 
berger and Maria, his wife, who emigrated to 
America from Eshelbrun, Baden, Germany, 
arriving in Pennsylvania in May, 1722. 
Christian Bomberger took up and settled 
upon a tract of land in Warwick township, 
Lancaster county, Province of Pennsylvania, 
a portion of which remains in possession of 
his descendants to the present day. Jacob 
CaufFman Bomberger was the youngest son 
of John Bomberger and his wife Elizabeth 



Cauffman. His education was received in 
the schools of his native town, which at that 
period was quite limited. When fourteen 
years of age he learned merchandising at 
Elizabethtown and at Shippensburg. In 
1845 he was appointed to a clerkship in the 
bank at Middletown, which position he held 
until 1851 when, having been elected assist- 
ant clerk to the Senate of Pennsylvania, he 
entered upon the duties of that office, which 
were faithfully and acceptably performed by 
him. During that session being instrumen- 
tal in procuring a charter for the Mechanics' 
Bank at Harrisburg, which was organized in 
May of that year; he was elected its cashier, 
serving in that capacity until the expiration 
of its charter in 1867 The success of the 
bank, of which he was the leading spirit, was 
unprecedented ; and at the close of its affairs 
Mr. Bomberger became its sole owner, in 
which he has continued until the present 
time. It has been through his energy and 
financial tact and abilitj' that it has become 
one of the most successful banking houses in 
Pennsylvania. During the first year of the 
Rebellion it was chiefly through the instru- 
mentality of Mr. Bomberger that the Penn- 
sylvania loan was at once taken up by the 
banking institutions of the Commonwealth. 
This subject has been specially treated of in 
recent histories of the Rebellion. Mr. Bom- 
berger was appointed by Governor Curtin 
one of the trustees of the State Lunatic Hos- 
pital, was reappointed by Governor Geary 
and served about ten years in that honorable 
capacity. He was a delegate to the National 
Convention at Chicago which nominated 
General Grant for the Presidency, and sup- 
ported him at his first election. Mr. Bom- 
berger has acquired by his great business 
capacity and industry an ample competency. 
His character for integrity is unimpeachable, 
and he occupies in the community where he 
is best known, a position that commands the 
best respect of his fellow-citizens. 



Hamilton, Thomas Allen, son of Hugh 
Hamilton and his wife Rosanna Boyd, was 
born in Harrisburg on the 14th of February, 
ISIS ; died on the 14th of December, 1874. 
He received a good education and learned the 
trade of a printer in his father's office, at 
which he worked until he received the ap- 
pointment of an assistant engineer of the 
State canals, under Col. James Worrall. but 
soon abandoned both avocations, in order to 
join a brother in a business which they sue- 



240 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



cessfully prosecuted until his death. He 
served as a member of the city councils of 
Harrisburg a longer continuous period than 
any other citizen has ever done, being elected 
for about twenty years in succession, gener- 
ally without serious opposition, although 
many epochs of great public excitement in- 
tervened to produce fierce and close political 
contests. His neighbors never failed to 
ascertain his political opinions, yet, whether 
voting for or against him, they rejoiced to 
know that he was their representative and 
leader of the municipal legislature. In the 
language of a contemporary, "Mr. Hamilton, 
in his intercourse with his fellow-citizens, 
was courteous to all, liberal to the poor, pos- 
itive in opinion, methodical in business, reti- 
cent, deliberate, but prompt in judgment." 
His integrity was never impeached in public 
or private transactions. He died, unmarried, 
at Harrisburg, in the same house in which 
he was born. 



depot, Harrisburg, November 19, 1864. He 
married, in 1845, Margaret L. Traugh, of 
Hollidaysburg, who survived him. 



Jones, Uriah James, was born at New 
Berlin, Union county, Pa., in 1818. He 
learned the art of printing at New Berlin, 
Lewisburg and Harrisburg. While a jour- 
neyman at the latter place he wrote and set 
up the novel of '•Simon Girty, the Outlaw," a 
book which is now very rare. In 1845 Mr. 
Jones went to Hollidaysburg, where he was 
engaged with 0. A. Traugh in the publica- 
tion of the Democratic Standard, and through 
its columns secured a national reputation 
for his witticisms. In 1850 he published 
the Keystone at Pittsburgh, but the paper 
proving unsuccessful he resumed his place 
on the Standard the year following. During 
1855-56_he wrote and published a "History 
of the Juniata Valley," the first historical 
work which gave a full record of the pioneer 
life of that locality, much of which was 
gathered from the lips of early settlers or 
their children. In 1859 Mr. Jones went to 
Lancaster as editor of the Express, and in 
I860 removed to Harrisburg, where he took 
a position on the Patriot and Union. At the 
same time he was a regular correspondent 
for New York, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh 
newspapers, and also a contributor of liter- 
ary articles and sketches to the magazines. 
It may be mentioned that in 1859 he pub- 
lished a pamphlet, "Advice to Travelers," 
which has furnished the material for several 
American guide-books. Mr. Jones was acci- 
dentally killed by the cars at the railroad 



Zimmerman, George, son of Henry and 
Barbara (Greiner) Zimmerman, born Febru- 
ary 11, 1819, on the forty acre tract set apart 
from the original Greiner estate in Lower 
Swatara township, Dauphin county. He at- 
tended the old Neidich meeting-house school 
in Churchville as well as other schools in 
Highspire, where the distillery now is, then 
taught by Conrad Alleman. When he was 
five years old, his father purchased the Kerr 
estate, to which he removed with his family 
in the spring of 1825. His father died when 
he was but twenty years of age, and in 
1842 he and his brother Henry farmed the 
home place as partners ; but in December, 
1843, he married Barbara Stoner, daughter 
of Henry and Martha (Alleman) Stoner, and 
in the spring of 1844 they dissolved partner- 
ship, when he entered the lumber business in 
Highspire with Jacob Nissley. 

After the death of his father-in-law in 
1847 he purchased the properties of the 
Stoner estate in Highspire. In 1848 he sold 
his interest to his partner and entered a 
partnership with his brother Philip in 
Middletown at the " point." His wife died 
August 16, 1850, with whom he had four 
children : Henry, born December 29, 1844 ; 
Augustus and Joseph, twins, born July 29, 
1846, the latter of whom died in infancy ; 
and Mary, born August 14, 1848. 

In 1852 he married Miss Elizabeth Meek, 
of Perry county, with whom he had four 
children, born in Dauphin county, as fol- 
lows: Milton, March 18, 1853, Simon, Octo- 
ber 18, 1853, Araminta, April 29, 1856, and 
Alice, February 18, 1858. He continued 
with his brother in the lumber business, 
until the mill burned down, when in 1854 
he began the brick business along the river 
above Highspire. In this business he suf- 
fered many reverses through the panic of 
1857, but finally survived that great com- 
mercial depression. In the spring of 1859, 
attracted by the brilliant prospects of the 
then unsettled West, and also by the fact 
that his "brothers Isaac and Simon, and his 
sisters Elizabeth and Mary, had migrated 
to Ohio, caused him to remove to that new 
country to try his fortune there. We here 
take leave of his various achievements by 
the simple statement that he has collected 
about him a beautiful tract of 320 acres of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



241 



very fertile land, near Springfield, Ohio, and 
lias erected thereon a fine brick mansion, 
large eastern stj'le barns, and commodious 
out-buildings. Having gotten his experience 
by battling with the stern realities of life, 
his nature partook of his surroundings, and 
he was very Daturally a matter-of-fact man ; 
life to him was a stern reality ; he viewed it 
in the light of his real experience and was 
devoid of anything that partook of the 
nature of shams or conventionalism. He 
was very generous, but when a kindness was 
bestowed, he was the first to forget it. He 
is a sincere Republican in politics, and a 
consistent member of the U. B. Church. 



Shammo, William, son of John and Sarah 
(Reinoehl), Shammo was born March 13, 
1819, at Halifax, Pa. He received the 
limited education afforded by the village 
school during the winter months, and from 
his early years assisted by his father, who was 
a merchant, thereby making himself familiar 
with mercantile transactions. He was en- 
gaged in business man} 7 years at Halifax and 
was successful in a marked degree. He was 
accepted as a safe counselor and sure finan- 
cial guide, and from the time of its organi- 
zation, in 1870, was cashier of the Halifax 
Bank. He served as a member of the bor- 
ough council and other positions of trust. 
He died at Halifax, February 14, 1883, aged 
almost sixty-four years. He was a valuable 
citizen and highly esteemed in the commu- 
nity in which he lived. Mr. Shammo mar- 
ried, December 29, 1856, Catherine R., daugh- 
ter of John and Mary Beam, of Halifax, and 
their children were : Estelle, Byron A., Min- 
nie L., Carrie M., Rosabelle, Myra A., and 
Bertha A. 



Geary, Gov. John White, the son of 
Richard Geary and Margaret White, was 
born December 30, 1819, near Mount Pleas- 
ant, Westmoreland county, Pa. The father 
was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, a native of 
Franklin county, and a man of education, 
refined tastes and supeiior moral excellence. 
His mother was born in Washington county, 
Md. They removed to Westmoreland 
county soon after their marriage, where 
Richard Geary engaged at first in the man- 
ufacture of iron, which, proving unsuccessful, 
he resorted to teaching, a profession he pur- 
sued the remainder of his life. 

For a time his thoughts turned to com- 
mercial pursuits, but convinced by a short 



experience in a wholesale house in Pitts- 
burgh that this would not prove to him a 
satisfactory sphere of life, he yielded to his 
natural predilections for mathematics, and 
applied himself to the stud}' of civil engi- 
neering. Having mastered the principles of 
that profession, he commenced the study of 
law, in the belief that it would increase the 
chances of a successful career, and was ad- 
mitted to'the bar, though intending to adopt 
engineering as his fixed vocation. With 
this end in view he went to Kentucky, where 
he was engaged, partly in the employ of the 
Commonwealth and partly in that of the 
Green River Railroad Company, to make a 
survey of several important lines of public 
works. 

His success in the Southwest opened the 
way to advancement in his native State, and 
he soon after became assistant superintendent 
and engineer of the Allegheny Portage rail- 
road. While occupied with the duties of 
this position, in the month of May, 1846, 
President Polk sent a message to Congress, 
informing that body that " war existed with 
this country by the act of Mexico," and ask- 
ing for men and money to enable him to 
maintain the rights and vindicate the honor 
of the Government. The burst of enthusi- 
asm was instantaneous and general, and 
Geary was among the first who responded 
to the call for volunteers, in a short time 
raising a company in Cambria county, to 
which he gave the name of American High- 
landers. At Pittsburgh his command was 
incorporated with the Second Pennsylvania 
regiment, commanded by Colonel Roberts, 
of which he was immediately elected lieuten- 
ant colonel. The regiment joined the army 
of General Scott at Vera Cruz, and served 
with conspicuous gallantry in Quitman's 
division during the memorable advance 
upon the Mexican capital. Lieutenant Col- 
onel Geary's first experience of actual war 
was in the partial though spirited action of 
the Pass of La Hoya. In the storming of 
Chapultepec he was wounded, and in the 
assault upon the immediate defenses of the 
city, at the Garita de Belen, he again led his 
regiment with so much judgment, coolness, 
and intrepidity that upon the capture he 
was assigned to the command of the great 
citadel, as a mark of Quitman's appreciation 
of his services. From the time when the 
army entered the valley of Mexico Colonel 
Roberts was disqualified for duty by sick- 
ness and the command of the regiment de- 



242 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



volved upon the lieutenant colonel. Shortly 
after the surrender of the capital Colonel 
Roberts died and Lieutenant Colonel Geary 
was elected to succeed him. 

On January 22, 1849, President Polk, in 
grateful recognition of his services in the 
Mexican war, appointed Colonel Geary post- 
master of San Francisco and mail agent for 
the Pacific Coast, with authority to create 
post-offices, appoint postmasters, establish 
mail routes, and make contracts for carrying 
the mails throughout California. Having 
received his commission on February 1, in 
company with his wife and child, sailed from 
New York for the Pacific Coast. On April 
1 he landed safely at San Francisco, and 
entered at once upon the discharge of his 
duties. For a time he was obliged to content 
himself with the rudest accommodations, and 
to perform his work under many disadvan- 
tages. But here, as in all previous situations, 
his methodical turn and practical tact soon 
enabled him to improvise all needful facili- 
ties, and brought the labors of the office 
under an easy and expeditious manage- 
ment. 

The intelligent and obliging dispatch with 
which Colonel Geary had discharged his 
duties as postmaster and mail agent so won 
the confidence and esteem of the people of 
San Francisco, that when the time arrived 
for the election of town officers he was unan- 
imously chosen first alcalde, though there 
were ten different tickets submitted to the 
choice of the voters. Shortly afterwards 
this mark of appreciation on the part of the 
citizens was followed by another equally 
flattering on the part of the military gover- 
nor of the Territor}', Brigadier General 
Riley, who appointed him judge of first in- 
stance. These offices were of Mexican ori- 
gin, and they imposed onerous and import- 
ant duties. The alcalde was sheriff, probate 
judge, recorder, notary public and coroner. 
The court of first instance exercised both 
civil and criminal jurisdiction throughout 
the city, and besides this adjudicated all 
those cases arising under the port regula- 
tions which usually fall within the cogni- 
zance of courts of admiralty. At the close 
of his first term he was re-elected, receiving 
all but four votes of the whole number 
cast, and continued in office until the Mexi- 
can institutions were superseded by the 
American forms of municipal government. 

In a vote upon the first city charter and 
for officers to serve thereunder, May 1, 1850, 



Judge Geary was elected first mayor of San 
Francisco by a large majority. As mayor 
he rendered valuable service in perfecting 
the municipal organization, in restraining 
the tendency to extravagant expenditure of 
the public funds, sustaining the city's credit 
by judicious management of its finances, and 
by an honest disposal of the public property 
saved to the corporation many millions of 
dollars. 

Owing to the failing health of his wife, 
Colonel Gea^, on February 1, 1852, sailed 
from San Francisco, intending to go back 
and remain permanently in California, but 
the death of the former and other circum- 
stances unforeseen caused him to change his 
purpose, and gave a new direction to his 
whole course of life. After having spent 
about three years in retirement, and had in 
a measure brought the condition of his farm 
into conformity with his own ideal of what 
such an estate should be, President Pierce 
invited him to Washington for the purpose 
of tendering to him the governorship of 
Utah, which, after due acknowledgement of 
the compliment, he respectfully declined. 

Not the government of Utah but of Kan- 
sas was the great problem of Mr. Pierce's ad- 
ministration. A bloody civil strife was being 
waged in that Territory, and the political 
state of the whole country was convulsed on 
the subject of its affairs. One governor had 
been removed for refusing to conform strictly 
to the Federal policy in regard to slavery, 
and another was preparing to flee from the 
Territory through fear of assassination. In 
view of the pressing exigency, the thoughts 
of the President reverted to Colonel Geaiy, 
and after consultation in July he was ap- 
pointed governor of Kansas, and proceeded 
immediately to his new field of labor, ar- 
riving at Fort Leavenworth on September 9, 
1856. His administration extended only 
from that date to March, 1857. 

Governor Geary was at his farm in West- 
moreland when the sound of the Rebellion's 
first gun broke upon the ear of the Nation. 
Early on the morning following the event- 
ful day he drove his farm wagon to the 
neighboring village, and there first heard 
the news of the assault upon Fort Sumter. In 
less than an hour after reading the telegram 
he had opened an office for the enlistment 
of volunteers. As soon as he could com- 
municate with the President he tendered 
his services, and was immediately commis- 
sioned colonel, with authority to raise a regi- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



243 



ment for the defense of the Union. In the 
course of a few weeks he received applica- 
tions from sixty-six companies, soliciting 
permission to join his command. On ac- 
count of the numerous and urgent appeals 
he was permitted to increase his regiment 
to sixteen companies, with one battery of six 
guns, making the full complement to con- 
sist of fifteen hundred and fifty-one officers 
and men. The artillery company was that 
which subsequently became so celebrated as 
Knapp's battery. 

Colonel Geary, on the 8th of March, 1862, 
captured Leesburg, and led the van of the 
column which subsequently obliged the Con- 
federate forces to evacuate all the towns 
north of the Rappahannock, and abandon 
their strongholds at Snicker's, Ashby's. Man- 
assas and Chester Gaps, in the Blue moun- 
tains. These operations were effected while 
"Stonewall" Jackson was within striking 
distance near Winchester; and for his share 
in them Colonel Geary was promoted to the 
rank of biigadier general, his commission 
bearing date of April 25, 1862. On the 9th 
of August, Banks' troops had a severe en- 
gagement with Stonewall Jackson's at Cedar 
mountain. The day was oppressively hot, 
and the Union troops suffered much from 
exhaustion, but still more from the fierce 
and well-directed assaults of that great com- 
mander. General Geary was wounded 
slightly in the left foot, and severely in the 
right arm. The battle was gallantly con- 
tested, but the results were adverse to the 
Union arms. The wound in the arm proved 
so serious that, to save the limb from ampu- 
tation, he was ordered home for treatment. 
Subsequent^ General Geary was promoted 
to the command of the Second division 
of the Twelfth corps. At Chancellorsville 
General Geary was wounded in the breast 
by a fragment of shell. At the battle of 
Gettysburg the troops of Geary's division 
were among the first of the corps to arrive at 
the scene of action. On the 1st, General 
Geary suggesting the importance of possess- 
ing Round Top, was directed to occupy it 
with a portion of his command. Early on 
the morning of the 2d he was ordered to 
Gulp's Hill, the extreme right of the Union 
line, with instructions to hold his position 
at every hazard. During the afternoon of 
that day he was remanded in the direction 
of Round Top, with a part of his division, to 
strengthen the left center of Meade's line, 
which, being hard pressed, was in danger of 



giving way. As soon as the relief he brought 
could be spared, he hastened back to Gulp's 
Hill, and on his arrival, at about nine o'clock 
at night, he found that in his absence the 
enemy had carried a part of his line, and 
flanked the position which he had received 
orders to hold. Suitable dispositions were 
made during the night to meet the emer- 
gency, and at three o'clock on the morning 
of the 3d, placing himself at the head of his 
division, he charged the enemy, recovered 
the ground that had been lost, hastily 
strengthened his line of breastworks, and 
waited the return of EwelPs veterans. The 
maintenance of the position was of the ut- 
most moment, for it commanded the Balti- 
more turnpike, on which the supply and 
ammunition trains of the army were parked, 
and had it been lost, these would have been 
captured, the rear of Meade's center would 
have been gaiued, and general defeat must 
have inevitably followed. Hence the furious 
assaults that were made upon it with the 
hope of seizing the last chance of victor}'. 
During seven hours the enemy shelled 
Geary's lines almost incessantly, and under 
cover of his batteries made repeated attempts 
to carry the hill at the point of the bayonet. 
After Gettysburg came Chickamauga. The 
defeat of Rosecranz in that battle made it 
necessary to reinforce the Army of the Cum- 
berland, and for that purpose the Eleventh 
and Twelfth Corps, under General Hooker, 
were detached from the Army of the Poto- 
mac. Geary's division went with the Twelfth 
Corps. Besides these troops others were hur- 
ried forward to the scene of the late disaster, 
and Grant, having laid Vicksburg in the 
dust and reopened the Mississippi, now, by 
order of the President, hastened to the moun- 
tains of the Tennessee and assumed com- 
mand. He immediately initiated a series of 
movements designed to dislodge Bragg from 
the formidable position which he had gained. 
In pursuance of his masterly plan a battle 
was fought at Wauhatchie on October 28, 
1863 ; another at Lookout mountain on No- 
vember 24 ; one at Mission Ridge on Novem- 
ber 25, and a fourth on November 27 at Ring- 
gold, in the State of Georgia. These battles, 
fought and'won in rapid succession, were the 
principal achievements of Grant's Chatta- 
nooga campaign, in the course of which the 
disasters of Chickamauga were gloriously re- 
trieved, and Bragg, hurled from heights 
which he had deemed inaccessible, was driven 
across the Tennessee line. 



244 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



In the spring of 1864 the Army of the 
Southwest was reorganized, and Grant hav- 
ing been invested with the rank of lieuten- 
ant general and appointed commander-in- 
chief. Sherman assumed command of all the 
forces designed to operate in the Southwest- 
ern and Southern States. Among other 
changes which he ordered, the Eleventh 
Corps (Howard's) and the Twelfth (Slocum's) 
were consolidated, becoming in this form the 
Twentieth Corps, with General Hooker in 
command. General Geary was continued at 
the head of his old division, with the addi- 
tion of a brigade from the Eleventh Corps. 
The two great campaigns of this memorable 
year were opened on the same day. On May 
4 Grant moved from theRapidan to encoun- 
ter Lee, and Sherman from Chattanooga to 
encounter Johnston. Sherman's army was 
complete in all its appointments, and about 
seventy thousand strong. The events that 
followed can but briefly be referred to here. 
At the head of the division to which he was 
endeared and which was endeared to him by 
so long a companionship in perils, hardships, 
sacrifices and sufferings, Geary participated 
in the battles of Mill Creek, May 8 ; Resaca, 
May 15 ; New Hope Church, com mencing May 
26 and continuing with but little intermis- 
sion eight consecutive days ; Pine Hill, June 
15; Muddy Creek, June 17; Noses Creek, 
June 19 ; Kolb's Farm, June 22 ; Kenesaw, 
June 27 ; Marietta, July 3 ; Peach-Tree 
Creek, July 20, and the siege of Atlanta, last- 
ing twenty-eight days and ending in the cap- 
ture of the city on September 2. To use 
General Geary's own language, " The cam- 
paign from the opening till the fall of Atlanta 
was really a hundred days' fight, and maybe 
termed a continuous battle, crowned with 
constant victory." 

When, in the spring of 1866, the Repub- 
lican leaders began to consider the important 
question of selecting a candidate for the chief 
magistracy of the State, it soon became ap- 
parent that the name of General Geary was 
everywhere received with favor. His ripe 
experience in the conduct of civil affairs and 
his distinguished services in the field com- 
mended him alike to the gratitude of the 
popular heart and the sanction of the popular 
judgment. After a very spirited canvass he 
was elected over his competitor, Hiester Cly- 
mer, by a majority of over seventeen thou- 
sand votes, and was inaugurated on January 
15, 1867. 

Governor Geary was elected to a second 



term, which he filled with acknowledged 
ability. A few weeks after his successor in 
office was inaugurated he died suddenly 
while sitting at the breakfast table. The 
entire city and State were shocked by the 
unexpected event. The Legislature, then in 
session, at once adopted measures for the 
funeral obsequies at the State's expense. To 
no former executive had ever such a distinc- 
tion been accorded, and every respect that 
could be shown was paid to his memory. 
He was buried at Harrisburg, and over his 
grave the State he loved so well and served 
so faithfully erected a monument of bronze 
creditable to the great Commonwealth of 
Pennsylvania. 

Governor Geary married, on the 12th of 
February, 1843, Margaret Ann Logan, 
daughter of James R. Logan, of Westmore- 
land county. Three sons were the issue of 
this marriage, one of whom died in infancy, 
another, Edward R., killed in the battle of 
Wauhatchie, and . the other, William, a 
graduate of West Point and lieutenant in 
the United States army. Mrs. Geary died 
on the 28th of February, 1853, and in 
November, 1858, Governor Geary was mar- 
ried to Mrs. Mary C. Henderson, daughter of 
Robert R. Church, of Cumberland county. 
After Governor Geary's death his widow 
married Dr. H. Earnest Goodman, of Phila- 
delphia. 



Williams, Edward Charles, son of 
Charles and Rebecca (Adams) Williams, was 
born February 10, 1820, in the city of Phila- 
delphia. His father was a native of Philadel- 
phia ; his mother, of Mount Holly, N. J., of 
Scotch parentage. The son was educated in 
the public schools of his native city, then or- 
ganized under the old Lancasterian system. 
He learned the trade of a bookbinder with 
Jacob Snyder, completing it with Robert P. 
Desilver. He shortly after came to Harris- 
burg, where he established himself in busi- 
ness, firm of Clyde & Williams, bookbinders 
and stationers. For several years they did the 
State binding and also published several im- 
portant works. In December, 1846, upon 
the call for volunteers for the war with Mex- 
ico, Mr. Williams raised a company called 
the Cameron Guards, which were accepted 
and formed a part of the Second Pennsyl- 
vania regiment. Previous to going to Mex- 
ico he had been connected several years with 
the old Dauphin Guards, one of the finest 
military organizations in the State, and was 



D4UPHIN COUNTY. 



245 



in service during the Philadelphia riots of 
1844. Upon Captain Williams' return from 
Mexico he was elected as an Independent, in 
1850, to the office of sheriff of Dauphin county, 
serving the full term. When the Eebellion 
broke out and a demand was made for more 
troops, Governor Curtin sent for General 
Williams, who had been commissioned sev- 
eral years prior brigadier general of the 
Dauphin county militia, and at once di- 
rected the organization of Camp Curtin, full 
particulars of which will be found in 
" Dauphin County in the War for the Union." 
General Williams had the honor of being the 
first volunteer mustered into the service for 
the defense of the Union. After organizing 
Camp Curtin, he organized Camp Slifer, at 
Chambersburg. He commanded a brigade 
during the three months' service, was with 
Patterson in the Shenandoah, and subse- 
quently mustered out at Washington city. 
He was then appointed by President Lin- 
coln, through Secretary of War Cameron, 
colonel of the Lochiel cavalry, directed to 
raise twenty-four companies of that branch 
of the service, which he accomplished in a 
very short time. It was difficult to handle 
three battalions of raw cavalry, but bj r hard 
work General Williams got his command 
into splendid discipline and drill. He went 
iuto camp at Jeffersonville, Ind., where he 
exchanged his Pennsylvania horses for good 
Kentucky stock. After inspection by Gen- 
eral Buford, he was ordered to the front un- 
der General Buell. On reaching Green river, 
and when ready to cross the stream, General 
Williams was directed to take the advance, 
but the same evening the news of the capture 
of Fort Donelson obviating that movement, 
he was ordered back, and his command cut 
up and distributed over Kentucky and Ten- 
nessee. His own regiment, the Ninth cavalry, 
became very popular in that section with all 
classes of people, owing to their good disci- 
pline and behavior. 

General Williams was at Henderson with 
his regiment when Buell and Bragg made 
their march into Kentucky, was ordered to 
Louisville without delay, and from thence to 
Crab Orchard, where he prevented Kirby 
Smith's cavalry from entering Kentucky at 
that point. His services in that campaign 
were indeed arduous. Owing, however, to a 
question of rank, in which not only he but 
the other officers in the volunteer service 
were concerned, he pre-emptorily resigned 
and returned to Pennsylvania. He was 



twice married ; first, January 16, 1843, to 
Selina, daughter of John Heltzel, of Harris- 
burg; second, June 5, 1873, at Chapman, 
Pa., to Mrs. A. E. Hetzel. 



Young, Josiah Carothers, son of Daniel 
H. Young and Sarah Duncan, was born 
April 17, 1821, at Harrisburg, Pa. He was 
educated in the common schools of the bor- 
ough and learned the trade of a carpenter, 
which occupation he followed several years. 
He subsequently taught school, and at the 
time of his death was a teacher in the public 
schools of Harrisburg. For a long period he 
was engaged in mercantile pursuits at Dau- 
phin and Harrisburg. From 1860 to 1868 
he was prothonotary and clerk of the courts 
of Dauphin county, a position he filled with 
great acceptability. He died at Harrisburg, 
April 1, 1881, aged almost sixty years. He 
was a faithful and conscientious public officer, 
an honored and respected citizen, while in 
the Methodist Church, of which body he was 
an ordained local preacher, highly esteemed 
as a sincere and devout laborer. Mr. Young 
married, September 21, 1843, Catharine Mary 
Kinter, daughter of George and Elizabeth 
Kinter, who survived him, and their children 
were William N., John W., George C, Charles 
W., Albert H, Charles C, and William L. 



Calder William, son of William and 
Mary (Kirkwood) Calder, was born in Har- 
risburg July 31, 1.821, and died July 19, 
1880. His father was a native of Harford ' 
county, Md., and was one of the pioneers of 
that count} 7 . He came to Harrisburg and 
became a member of the firm of Calder, 
Wilson & Co., which conducted a stage line 
business. After this enterprise was destroyed 
by the opening of the canal, he established a 
livery trade. Our subject had limited edu- 
cation from books, being inducted into the 
stage line business at the age of twelve years 
as pa}'rnaster of the firm of Calder, Wilson 
& Co. At the age of sixteen his father put 
him in charge of the Philadelphia packet 
line from Columbia to Pittsburgh, and at 
the same time was interested in his father's 
livery. In 1851 he assumed the manage- 
ment of his father's business, and in 1S">7 
undertook the completion of the Lebanon 
Valley railroad. In 1858 he became a 
member of the well-known banking firm of 
Cameron, Calder, Eby & Co., which after- 
wards became tin- First National Bank of 
Harrisburg, of which Mr. Calder was chosen 



246 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



president. The same year he was elected a 
director of the Northern Central railway, 
and was active in preserving Pennsylvania's 
interests in that corporation. At the break- 
ing out of the Rebellion he rendered the 
Government important service through his 
large knowledge in the purchase of horses, 
and supplied the Government with no less 
than 42,000 mules, establishing the price so 
low as to effect a very great saving to the 
Government in this department. Mr. Calder 
was always foremost in the promotion of 
Harrisburg's industrial enterprises. He was 
one of the founders of the Harrisburg Car 
Works, the Lochiel Rolling Mills, the Har- 
risburg Cotton Mills, Foundry and Machine 
Works, the Fire Brick Works and the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Works. 

In 1873 he was commissioned by Governor 
Hartranft a trustee of the Pennsylvania 
State Lunatic Hospital, and reappointed in 
1876. In 1876 he was appointed by the 
same governor a member of the commission 
to devise a plan for the government of cities, 
and in 1880, just prior to his death, he was 
elected director of the Pennsylvania Institute 
for the Deaf and Dumb. For many years 
he ably officiated in the management of city 
affairs through its councils. He was among 
the founders of the Harrisburg Hospital and 
the Grace Methodist Episcopal church, of 
which he was an attendant. He was for- 
merly a Whig, latterly a Republican, and 
influential in local and State politics, and 
"one of the Presidental electors from this State 
in 1876. 

Upon the occasion of President Lincoln's 
visit to Harrisburg, when a plot was laid to 
assassinate him on his return to Baltimore, 
Mr. Calder was selected to escort him safely 
to take another train from the one intended 
at first, and thus his enemy's designs were 
thwarted. His widow is Regina Camilla, 
daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Krause) 
Greenawalt. Their children were: Edmund 
Kirkwood, who died December 31, 1862, 
aged thirteen years ; William Jacob, Cathe- 
rine Krause, Theodore Greenawalt, Regina, 
and Mary Kirkwood. 



After having taught school a good many 
years, he graduated in 1861 from the State 
Normal School of New Jersey, located at 
Trenton. In early life he commenced teach- 
ing ; came to Harrisburg in 1843 as teacher 
in the boys' high school of the South ward, 
where he continued until 1851, when he be- 
came teacher of the sciences in the agricul- 
tural school at Mount Airy, conducted by 
Prof. John Wilkinson, for one year. From 
December, 1852, to the spring of 1855 he 
taught at Treemount Seminary, Norristown, 
when he took charge of the Olive Branch, 
which he edited two years. In 1857 he went 
to Springfield, Ohio, to engage in a news- 
paper venture, but purchasing a farm, fol- 
lowed farming two years, teaching during 
the winter. In 1859 he returned East, took 
charge of one of the public schools at Plain- 
field, N. J., subsequently entering the State 
Normal School as stated. During the Rebel- 
lion he entered the United States service, 
serving until the close of the war, and was 
made clerk to Maj. E. L. Moore, paymaster 
in the United States army. In October, 
1865, he resigned, and established a select 
school at Harrisburg, which he successfully 
conducted ten years. In 1875 was elected 
by the school board of the city of Harrisburg 
supervisory principal of the Reily street 
schools. Mr. Gause studied law while con- 
ducting the Harrisburg Institute, under John 
C. Kunkle, and was admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar December, 1868. He married, 
October 28, 1847, Sarah Fish Moore, daughter 
of Levi Moore and Sarah Fish, of Amherst, 
Mass., and their children were Leander M., 
Charles S., Helen, Frank L., Lucy G., and 
Laura B. 



Gause, Lewis H, son of Samuel Gause 
(1781-1865) and Mary Bailey (1784-1868), 
was born October 28, 1821, at Unionville, 
Chester county, Pa. ' He was educated in 
the country schools of Delaware and Chester 
county, and at West Town boarding-school. 



Cowden, William Kerr, son of Matthew 
B. and Mary (Wallace) Cowden, was born 
January 5, 1822, in Lower Paxtang town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa. He was brought 
up a farmer, receiving such facilities of edu- 
cation as the schools of the township afforded 
prior to the adoption of the common school 
system. He continued the occupation of a 
farmer until 1868, when he removed to Har- 
risburg and engaged in the coal and lumber 
business, subsequently establishing a plan- 
ing mill. For a decade of years he was one 
of the inspectors of the Dauphin county 
prison. Mr. Cowden married Elizabeth M., 
daughter of Joshua and Mary C. (Gillmor) 
Elder. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



247 



Kunkel, George, son of Jacob Kunkel 
and his wife Rebecca Stine, was born on 
January 21, 1823, in Greencastle, Franklin 
county, Pa.; died January 25, 1885. He be- 
came a printer in Philadelphia, and while 
earning fifteen dollars a week at the case, in 
1844 he left it to get twenty-five dollars to 
sing and play with the Virginia serena- 
ders. When they disbanded he organized 
Kunkel's Nightingale Minstrels, Mr. John 
T. Ford becoming the manager of the troupe, 
which was very successful. Mr. Kunkel 
was a noted bass singer. Kunkel's Minstrels 
were on the road eleven years, and dis- 
banded in Washington in 1855. Mr. Kun- 
kel was the original manager of the Jenny 
Lind theater. Washington, which stood on 
the site of the National theater. It was de- 
stroyed by fire, by which Mr. Kunkel lost 
eight thousand dollars. 

After the disbanding of his troupe, with 
Mr. Moxley he managed a theater in Rich- 
mond up to the time of the beginning of the 
war. In his company were J. Wilkes Booth 
and Edwin Adams, and his stage manager 
was Joseph Jefferson. Some time during 
the first year of the war Mr. Kunkel returned 
to Baltimore and became manager of the 
museum at Baltimore and Calvert streets. 
Afterwards he undertook the role of Uncle 
Tom, in which character he first appeared 
in Charleston, S. C, in 1861. The city 
council of Charleston, on the occasion of his 
first appearance, held a meeting and passed 
a resolution forbidding any colored person 
from entering the theater under pain of 
punishment. Parson Brownlow published 
an editorial in his paper advising the driv- 
ing out of the troupe from the city. 

In 1864, when manager of the Front street 
theater, he married Mrs. Ada Proctor, who 
was leading lady at that place. Two chil- 
dren, a son and a daughter, survived him. 

In the character of Uncle Tom Mr. Kun- 
kel perhaps pleased more children than any 
other living actor. In 1883 Mr. Kunkel 
starred through England in the character of 
Uncle Tom under the management of Jar- 
rett & Palmer. It was a most successful 
tour. The last time he played Uncle Tom 
was in New Haven, Conn., during New 
Year's week, 1885. He died suddenly at 
Baltimore, Md., January 25, 1885. 



was superintending a mine for his brother, 
Col. E. G. Savage. He emigrated to America 
with his parents, who settled in Minersville, 
where he learned the trade of a machinist. 
In 1849 he came to Wiconisco to put up the 
engine for the Lykens Valley breaker, which 
he ran a year, and then went to California. 
There he stayed two years, and returned in 
1852 and accepted a position under the Short 
Mountain Coal Company. He hoisted the 
first car of coal ever taken out of the Wico- 
nisco mines. In 1855 or 1856 he became su- 
perintendent of the Lykens Coal Company 
under George E. Hoffman. In 1861 he went 
to California again, where he remained until 
1865, when he returned and located at Gil- 
berton, Schuylkill county, in charge of the 
Gilberton Coal Company. In 1867, with Col. 
E. G. Savage and Benjamin Kaufman, under 
the firm name of Savage, Brother & Kauf- 
man, he leased a tract of coal land of the 
Philadelphia & Reading railroad, developed 
what is now known t s " Brookside Colliery," 
and established the operation as a successful 
one. Then the}' sold it to George S. Rep- 
plier & Co. He was subsequently its super- 
intendent, and afterwards in various enter- 
prises in Tremont for ten years. He may 
justly be regarded as the pioneer of the Wi- 
conisco coal mines. 



Savage, James, was born in North Wales, 
February 25, 1823, and died in Oimmaron, 
New Mexico, November 10, 1881, where he 



McIlhenny, Samuel, son of Samuel and 
Mary (Carson) McIlhenny, was born June 4, 
1823, in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa. He was educated in the public 
schools of Lower Paxtang township, and 
was brought up a farmer. At the age of 
seventeen he apprenticed himself to William 
J. Kaul to learn the trade of a tanner, which 
he followed many years. In 1849 he com- 
menced business for himself at Linglestown, 
and took an active part in the political af- 
fairs of the country. Mr. McIlhenny was 
elected county auditor in 1S69, serving three 
years, and in 1873 elected one of the county 
commissioners, and re-elected, filling that 
responsible station six years. During his 
term of office various needed reforms were 
made in the administration of the public af- 
fairs of the county, and much credit is due 
Mr. McIlhenny for his efforts in this direc- 
tion. He has filled the various township 
offices, and in 1879 was appointed one of 
the inspectors of the Dauphin county pri- 
son. Mr. McIlhenny married, January 9, 
1847, Catherine, daughter of Louisa and 
Sarah Maria (Albert) Culp. Their children 



248 



.670 GRAPHIC A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



were: Sarah R., John H., Mary Ann, Kate 
Ann, Lydia J., Elizabeth E., who married 
Jacob Balthaser, Samuel O, Susan S., George 
W., Emma E., William A., Anna Maria and 
Minnie C. 



Waugh, Beverly Roberts, the son of Rt. 
Rev. Beverly Waugh, bishop of the Metho- 
dist Episcopal Church, and his wife Catharine 
Bushby, was born July 28, 1824, at Liberty, 
Md. His grandfather, James Waugh, was an 
officer in the Pennsylvania Line of the Revo- 
lution, who settled in Virginia at the close of 
the struggle for independence. Beverly re- 
ceived a thorough English and classical edu- 
cation and entered Dickinson College, where 
he graduated. His alma mater subsequently 
conferred upon him the degree of A. M. Mr. 
Waugh was licensed to preach by the Balti- 
more Conference, but accepted the position 
of professor of mathematics and English 
literature in the Baltimore Female College, 
an institution then in the full tide of success. 
In 1853 the trustees of the Pennsylvania 
Female College at Harrisburg secured him 
as principal of that institution, in which po- 
sition he labored faithfully and successfully 
to the day of his death. It was not alone in 
the capacity of teacher that Mr. Waugh de- 
voted his energies and talents, but his labors 
were varied, incessant, faithful, in season and 
out of season, for the good of humanity. 
His devoted Christian life-work ended on 
March 24, 1861, in his thirty-seventh year. 
Mr. Waugh married Sarah Shrom Beatty, 
eldest daughter of George Beatty and his 
wife Catharine Shrom, who with one child, 
Eliza B., married to Charles A. Kunkel, of 
Harrisburg. survive. 



Etter, Benjamin F., lawyer of Harris- 
burg, and ex-deputy attorney general of 
Pennsylvania, was born at Middletown, 
Dauphin count} 7 , September 29, 1824. He 
obtained his early education at the Middle- 
town Academy. At the age of twenty-two 
began reading law with James Fox, a lawyer 
of Harrisburg, and was admitted to practice 
on November 24, 1851. He opened a law 
office in Harrisburg the same year, and has 
been engaged in general practice in the civil 
courts of the county and State since, a period 
of thirty-one years. Mr. Etter was appointed 
and served for six years as deputy attorney 
general under Attorney General William M. 
Meredith, and for a short time under At- 
torney General Benjamin H. Brewster. His 



safe and judicious opinions as a counselor, 
his integrity and fidelity to his clients, and 
his uncompromising desire to defend the 
wrong and encourage the right have given 
him a high reputation in the profession. He 
married, in 1857, Catharine A., daughter of 
Charles A. and Barbara A. (Keller) Snyder, 
of Lancaster, Pa. Her father was a relative 
of Governor Snyder. Their surviving chil- 
dren were Charles F., clerk in the First 
National Bank of Harrisburg; Nannie E., 
and George E. Etter. His parents, George 
and Nancy (Shelly) Etter, died' at Middletown, 
the former in 1850, aged sixty-seven; the 
latter in 1826, aged thirty. His grandfather, 
Abraham Etter, settled in Dauphin county, 
from Lancaster, about 1800, where he died, 
and was of German origin. His maternal 
grandfather was Abraham Shelly, of York 
county, Pa. 



Edwards, Oliver, third son of Abraham 
Edwards and Martha Greenfield, was born 
October 24, 1824. His parents were natives 
of Baltimore, where they married, removed 
to Pittsburgh, and subsequently to Harris- 
burg about 1819. Oliver's education in the 
schools was limited, but his mind being ac- 
tive and inquiring, he read much and stud- 
ied at night after the work of the day was 
over, thus becoming very well self-educated, 
and developed into a man of considerable 
attainments. When young he learned the 
trade of bootmaking with his father ; later 
in life he was selected as a school teacher 
under the common school system, and 
proved to be one of the most successful ever 
employed in the Harrisburg schools, as 
numbers of young men of the present day 
can testify. 

Mr. Edwards was much afflicted with 
asthma and unable to do military duty, but 
in order to render some service during the 
war he became the agent for the reception 
and distribution of the Dauphin County Re- 
lief Fund for the support of those whose 
husbands, fathers and sons were in the 
army. It was a very onerous duty, and he 
performed it faithfully and well, declining 
any remuneration whatever for his services. 
In 1860 he was elected one of the first alder- 
men of the city of Harrisburg. Upon the 
election of Gen. A. S. Raumfort as mayor of 
the city he appointed Mr. Edwards as com- 
mitting magistrate and chief clerk in the 
maj'or's office. He was elected to succeed 
Gen. Raumfort, and was inaugurated mayor 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



249 



of the city in March, 1866. He was subse- 
quently elected an alderman of the Fourth 
ward in 1872, which position he occupied up 
until the time of his death, which occurred 
in Harrisburg on the 13th day of October, 
1874. Mr. Edwards was an active man, of 
quick perception, fine social qualities, and 
possessed of much useful information. The 
Rev. George F. Stelliug, of the Fourth Street 
Lutheran church, preached a very able 
funeral sermon shortly after his death in re- 
lation to Mr. Edwards' religious experience. 
On the 7th of August, 1851, he married Ra- 
chel Ann Chandler, daughter of Jonathan 
Chandler and Mary Griffith. The marriage 
took place in Harrisburg, where his wife was 
born, on the 13th of August, 1830, and died 
therein on the 5th of July, 1865. Two 
daughters survived the parents, Mary Griffith 
and Rachel Louisa, married Daniel A. Mus- 
ser. 



Black, Andrew Krause, son of Joseph 
and Elizabeth (Krause) Black, was born 
January 16, 1825, at Harrisburg, Pa. He 
was educated in the public schools of the 
borough, and learned the trade of bricklayer 
and builder, in which occupation he engaged 
until 1892. He served as a member of the 
select and common councils of the city of 
Harrisburg, and for several years was one of 
the inspectors of the Dauphin county prison. 
He represented the county in the Legislature 
in 1871 and 1872, and under the Constitution 
of 1874 represented the city of Harrisburg 
in that body in 1877 and 1878. In Decem- 
ber, 1891, was appointed by President Har- 
rison postmaster of Harrisburg. Mr. Black 
married, in 1849, Rebecca Irwin Clark, 
daughter of William and Maria Clark, of 
Clark's Ferry, and their children were: 
Emma, Harriet, George Murray, Alfred T., 
Irene Elizabeth, who married J. C. Harlicker, 
Maria Clark, and Amy Chaplin. 



Sheafer, Maj. Henry Jackson, son of 
Michael Sheafer and Susan Cloud, was born 
May 21, 1826, in Lancaster county, Pa. When 
about six years of age his father removed to 
what was "then called " Bear Gap," now Wi- 
conisco, in the upper end of Dauphin county. 
Here he resided with his parents, getting a 
few months' schooling during the winter sea- 
son, until the age of fifteen, when he went to 
learn the drug business at Harrisburg. He 
continued in this employment for four years, 
when he went to South Carolina and resided 



for some time in Columbia, the capital. Com- 
.ing North, he settled in the town of Milton, 
Northumberland county, and engaged in the 
drug trade. In 1848 he was married to 
America 0. Wood, daughter of Nicholas B. 
Wood. At the death of his father he re- 
moved to the old home at Wiconisco, for the 
purpose of settling his father's estate. 

In 1856 he removed to Mendota, Dakota 
county, Minn., where he engaged in the lum- 
ber business in connection with Eli Pettijohn 
and Franklin Steele, of Fort Snelling. They 
built a large mill at the mouth of the Min- 
nesota river, and had extensive yards on the 
Minnesota river. In the fall of 1858 he was 
elected a member of the Minnesota Legisla- 
ture from Dakota count}', and for some time 
took an active part in the politics of the }'Oung 
State. After the breaking out of the war all 
business was completely paralyzed, and in 
the fall of 1861 he returned to Harrisburg. 
During the winter of 1861-62 he recruited a 
company for the One Hundred and Seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
mustered into service as captain of Company 
I. At the battle of Antietam his brigade 
fought in the noted cornfield almost fronting 
the Dunker church, and suffered terribly in 
killed and wounded. At one time the line 
being driven back, both color-bearers were 
shot dead and left on the field. Captain 
Sheafer, ascertaining the fact, returned alone 
and rescued the colors and rejoined his com- 
mand without injury. On December 21, 
1862, he was commissioned major of the regi- 
ment. In the Gettysburg campaign, on the 
first day of the fight, shortly after Reynolds 
was killed, Major Sheafer was severely 
wounded, but did not leave the field until 
the afternoon of the third day's fight. Early 
in the fall he rejoined his command and par- 
ticipated with his regiment in the many bat- 
tles they were engaged in up to March 8, 
1865 (the expiration of his term of service), 
and was mustered out. After the war he 
made Harrisburg his permanent home and 
engaged in mercantile pursuits. In 1873 he 
was elected sheriff of Dauphin count}', serv- 
ing his term of three vears. 



Elder, James, son of Robert R. and Sarah 
(Slierer) Elder, was born August 18, 1826, in 
Swatara township, Dauphin county, Pa. 
His early years were spent on his father's 
farm. At the age of twenty-four he removed 
to New Castle, Pa., where he engaged in mer- 
cantile business until the death of his father 



250 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



in 1858, when he returned, and with his 
brother Robert, purchased the homestead 
farm. During the war for the Union Mr. 
Elder raised a company for the emergency. 
In 1867 he embarked in the coal trade with 
a younger brother, withdrawing in 1869, and 
entered into partnership in the lumber busi- 
ness, in which he continued until failing 
health compelled him to relinquish all active 
pursuits. He left the farm and took up his 
residence in the city of Harrisburg, where he 
died January 12, 1877, in his fifty-first year. 
Mr. Elder married, March 2, 1854, Rebecca 
0., daughter of John Whitehall, and their 
children were: Catherine 0., Robert R., Mar- 
tha K., and Ida. 



Neagley, John, son of Daniel and Mar- 
garet (Gable) Neagley, was born October 10, 
1827, in Lykens Valley. His ancestor, Jacob 
Neagley, an emigrant from Wurtemberg, 
Germany, settled first in Berks county, sub- 
sequently removing to Lykens A^alley, where 
he permanently located. He had two sons, 
Joseph and George. Joseph, born Septem- 
ber 15, 1766 ; died July 12, 1828 ; married 
Maria Hoffman, born January 8, 1773 ; died 
February 18, 1840. Their children were: 
Daniel, George, Elizabeth, Magdalena, Cath- 
erine, and Sarah. Daniel, the eldest, born 
November 12, 1797 ; died February 2, 1873; 
married Margaret Gable, and their children 
were: George, John, Joseph, William, Daniel, 
Isaac, Mary, Catherine, Sarah, Margaret, and 
Hannah. Of these, John Neagley received 
a limited education, and learned the trade 
of a cabinet maker at Liverpool, Perry 
county. Upon his return home he estab- 
lished' himself in business, but at the expira- 
tion of two years removed to Freeport, 111., 
subsequently coming back to Pennsylvania, 
where, for a period of seventeen years, he 
conducted cabinet making and undertaking 
at Liverpool. In 1869 he established a 
a planing mill at Millersburg, which he 
now carries on. Mr. Neagley married, De- 
cember 28, 1853, E. R., daughter of John and 
Anna Murray. 

Detweiler, John Shelly, was born on 
the 18th of October, 1829, in Londonderry 
township, Dauphin county, on a farm occu- 
pied by his father, David Detweiler, near 
what is now known as the Buck Lock, Penn- 
sylvania canal. His mother, Susan Det- 
weiler, was a daughter of William Shelly, 
of Shelly's Island. When ten years old he 



attended the school in the neighborhood of 
his birthplace, and continued there until he 
was sixteen years old, when he came to Har- 
risburg and entered the printing office of 
Theophilus Fenn, where he remained but a 
short time, and then went to Lancaster, 
entering the office of the Lancaster Exam- 
iner and Herald. 

Leaving the Examiner office, Mr. Detweiler 
entered Franklin and Marshall College, at 
whicli institution he pursued a course of 
regular studies and graduated with high 
honor, after which he began the study of 
the law with Gen. George B. Ford, of Lan- 
caster city, and was admitted to the bar of 
that county in 1850. He remained in Lan- 
caster only a few months after his admission, 
and came to Harrisburg in the winter of 
that year, entering at once in the practice of 
the law here, in which profession he con- 
tinued until the breaking out of the Civil 
war. 

At the organization of the Ninth cavalry, 
Mr. Detweiler took an active part in secur- 
ing the necessary companies to makeup the 
regiment, and as captain of Company E was 
very prominent in securing a completed or- 
ganization. He was commissioned captain 
October 17, 1861. While on duty in Ten- 
nessee he was appointed on the staff of 
General DuMont. On the 19th of March, 
1863, Captain Detweiler was appointed 
major of the regiment, and on the 2d of 
April of the same year he resigned his com- 
mission and returned to Harrisburg, when 
he was appointed United States recruiting- 
officer at this point, which post he held until 
the close of the war. In 1864 Mr. Detweiler 
was appointed deputy United States assessor 
of internal revenue under Charles J. Bruner, 
which office he held until it was abolished 
in 1871. In 1872 he was appointed by 
Judge Cadwalader register in bankruptcy, 
which office he held at the time of his death. 
In 1874 Mr. Detweiler was nominated and 
elected by the Republicans county solicitor 
for the term of three years. Major Detweiler 
married Eunice Parke, daughter of Benjamin 
Parke, of Harrisburg, and they had three 
children who survived their father. He 
died at Harrisburg, Pa., August 16, 1878. 



Sergeant, William, son of Hon. John 
Sergeant, a distinguished jurist of Pennsyl- 
vania, was born 1829, in the city of Phila- 
delphia. He graduated from Princeton Col- 
lege in 1847 ; studied law under Benjamin 




^-a^u^cs^ 




DAUPIIIX COUNTY. 



253 



Gerhard, and admitted to the Philadelphia 
bar in 1850 ; he held a prominent position 
at the bar, and was for a time a representa- 
tive in the State Legislature. On the break- 
ing out of the Rebellion he was commis- 
sioned captain of the Twelfth infantry, U. S. 
A.; afterwards colonel of the Two Hundred 
and Tenth regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers ; on March 31, 1865, he was wounded 
in his thigh by a ball while resisting an at- 
tack of the enemy on the White Oak road, 
near the Boynton plank-road, in front of 
Petersburg, Va., from which he died on 
board of the hospital boat, while on his way 
home, April 11, 1865; he was a gentleman 
of marked ability and a gallant officer. 
Colonel Sergeant married, November 8, 1853, 
Eliza Lawrence Espy, who survives, daugh- 
ter of James Snodgrass Espy and his wife 
Mary H. Pollard. Their children were Mary, 
Margaretta, married Alexander James Dallas 
Dixon, Louisa, married John C. Kunkel, Jr., 
John, died in infancy, Sarah Haly, and Eliza, 
married William Heyward Mejers. 



Bent, Luther Stedman, son of Ebenezer 
and Nancy (Stedman) Bent, was born De- 
cember 6, 1829, at Quincy, Norfolk county, 
Mass. His ancestors were early settlers at 
Milton, that State. Luther S. attended the 
public schools until the age of twelve years, 
afterwards working on the farm until his fif- 
teenth year, when he went to Boston, where 
he served five years with the New England 
Glass Company, situate in East Cambridge, 
then one of the largest establishments of the 
county. From that period until the com- 
mencement of the Rebellion he was engaged 
in the glassware and crockery business in 
Boston. In May, 1861, he enlisted as a pri- 
vate in company H, Fourth regiment, Massa- 
chusetts volunteers, and participated in the 
battle of Big Bethel. Being mustered out 
at the end of his term of service at Boston, 
he re-enlisted as a private in company K of 
the Eighteenth regiment, Massachusetts vol- 
unteers, for three years, and served in all the 
grades of non-commissioned and commis- 
sioned officers to that of captain. He served 
through the various campaigns in which his 
regiment was engaged in the Army of the 
Potomac, and was wounded in the right hand 
in the second battle of Bull Run. He re- 
mained with his command until their muster 
out, when he was detailed to take charge of 
a battalion of veterans and recruits. For 
meritorious services at Peebles' Farm he was 



promoted brevet major, was afterwards, on 
the recommendation of General Griffin, com- 
missioned by President Lincoln as major in 
the United States army, at the same time by 
the State of Massachusetts a lieutenant colo- 
nel, on which commission he was never mus- 
tered. His battalion having become deci- 
mated in numbers it was consolidated with 
the Twenty-second Massachusetts, when at 
his request he was mustered out as a super- 
numerary officer. He returned home, and 
shortly after made engagements with the 
officers of the Union Pacific railroad, and re- 
mained in their employ from the commence- 
ment to the completion of that great enter- 
prise, filling various positions. During the 
last two years he was one of the largest con- 
tractors for grading that road, comprising 
two hundred miles through Salt Lake Valley 
and the Promontory. He subsequently be- 
came engaged in cattle raising on the plains 
and was one of the pioneers in the business, 
being among the first to establish cattle 
ranches along the line of the railroad in Ne- 
braska. Here he remained three years. Re- 
turning to the East he married a daughter 
of S. M. Felton, Esq., of Philadelphia, which 
relations brought him into connection with 
the Pennsylvania Steel Company. In 1S74 
he took the superintendency of that immense 
establishment. 



Herr, Andrew Jackson, son of Daniel 
Herr (1795-1857) and Sarah Gilbert (1801- 
1880), was born December 31, 1829, in 
Greencastle, Franklin county, Pa. He was 
educated at the Zane street grammar school 
and the high school at Philadelphia, from 
which latter institution he graduated in 
1845. He shortly after commenced the 
study of law with James McCormick, and 
was admitted to the Dauphin county bar 
August 20, 1750, locating at Harrisburg in 
the practice of his profession. He served, 
by election, as district attorney nine years ; 
was counsel for county commissioners one 
year, and represented the county of Dauphin 
in the Legislature in 1868 and 1869 : was 
member of the State Senate in 1875 and 
1876, and in the latter year re-elected for 
full term of four years ; elected president 
pro tem. of the Senate at the close of the ses- 
sion of 1878, and re-elected to that office in 
the session of 1879. In November, 1880, he 
was re-elected again for full term of four 
years. He served in that body with distinc- 
tive ability. After the close of his official 



254 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



term he returned to the duties of his profes- 
sional life. He died at Harri&burg March 
16, 1894, and was there buried. Colonel 
Herr married, first, Martha Linn Coyle, 
daughter of Scott Coyle and Martha Linn ; 
secondly, Nannie M. Coyle, and their chil- 
dren were: Daniel Coyle, a member of the 
Dauphin county bar, and Martha Coyle, d.s.p.; 
married, thirdly, Nannie Gillmor, daughter 
of James Gillmor and Eleanor McKinney, 
and they had Eleanor Gillmor. It may be 
here stated that in his early years he was a 
frequent contributor to the Saturday Evening 
Post and Need's Gazette, of Philadelphia. 
When fifteen years of age he published three 
novels, entitled "Maid of the Valley," 
"Story founded on the Revolution," and 
" The Corsair," founded on the revolt of St. 
Domingo. These books were published in 
England. A novel called "The Chain of 
Destiny," also appeared from his pen. As a 
criminal lawyer, however, Colonel Herr was 
the most brilliant and his career successful. 
He was highly respected by his professional 
brethren and his opinions had great weight, 
especially in that class of legal practice in 
which he was unexceptionably the leader at 
the Dauphin county bar. 

McCormick, Henry, son of James McCor- 
mick and his wife Eliza Buehler, was born 
March 10, 1831, in Harrisburg, Pa. He re- 
ceived his education at the Harrisburg 
Academy, Partridge's military institute, and 
graduated from Yale College in 1852. He 
commenced the study of law with his father, 
but his taste being for a more stirring pur- 
suit, he gave it up and learned the iron busi- 
ness at Reading furnace, now Robesonia, at 
the first opportunity purchasing an interest 
in the Henry Clay and Eagle furnaces, near 
Marietta, Lancaster county. In 1857 Paxtang 
furnace came under his management, and, 
in 1866, the nail-works at Fairview, Cumber- 
land county, at the mouth of the Conedo- 
guinet creek, which he conducted for twenty- 
five years. In 1865, before a railway spanned 
the continent, he crossed the great plain and 
mountain range to the Pacific coast, return- 
ing by the Isthmus of Panama. In 1877 he 
visited Europe. Long before these journeys 
he had shown his devotion to his country. 
At the opening of the Rebellion he offered 
his life and services to the cause of patriot- 
ism, gathering a company of volunteers, 
company F, Lochiel Grays, of the Twenty- 
fifth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, in 



the three months' service. In 1862 he was 
chosen colonel of the First regiment, Penn- 
sylvania militia, under Maj. Gen. John F. 
Reynolds and assigned to the command of 
the First brigade. The object of forming 
this division being accomplished by the con- 
test at Antietam, it was mustered out of ser- 
vice. Under the act relative to a new geo- 
logical survey of Pennsylvania, he was 
appointed by Governor Hartranft a commis- 
sioner, and by his colleagues its treasurer, 
filling these positions until the work was 
done. As a co-trustee of his father's estate, 
he has shown tact and judgment, and, in the 
pursuit of all the business in which he is 
engaged, great energy and success. To all 
benevolent objects he is a most generous 
giver, without ostentation or publicity. As 
an evidence of the esteem in which he is 
held, it may be stated that when a candidate 
for Congress in 1882, his majority in his 
native county was one hundred and fifty- 
nine, while his party was in a minority of 
nearly fifteen hundred on the vote for other 
offices. Colonel McCormick married, June 
29, 1867, Annie Criswell, daughter of John 
Vance Criswell and Hannah Dull. 



Beck, Julius Augustus, son of John and 
Joanna Beck, was born April 2, 1831, in 
Lititz, Lancaster county, Pa., and was edu- 
cated at the Lititz academy, of which his 
father, John Beck, was principal. In early 
life he devoted himself to the art of sculp- 
ture, and in 1855 visited Italy for the pur- 
pose of perfecting himself in that branch of 
the fine arts. In 1861 he turned his atten- 
tion to portrait and landscape painting. He 
married Miss Susan Maria Kepple, daughter 
of Henry and Catherine Kepple, of Lancas- 
ter, Pa., and their children are: Abraham 
Raphael, Catherine Augusta, Henry Kepple, 
John, Martin Augustus, Marion, Edith, Isa- 
bella, and Mary Alice. 



Geety, William Wallace, was born in 
Harrisburg, December 4, 1831, and died at 
Dauphin, January 19, 1887. When he was 
quite young the family moved to Middle- 
town, but returned a few years later. Then 
Wallace, a lad eight years of age, was sent to 
the school of Jacob Eyster, who kept the 
boys under strict military drill and discipline. 
At twelve years of age he was put to Francis 
Wyeth to learn the book business, and at 
sixteen to Martin Lutz to acquire a knowledge 
of pharmacy. He had also learned some- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



255 



thing of dentistry with Dr. Stough, practicing 
his profession and teaching school at inter- 
vals until 1858, when he removed to Coxes- 
town and taught school until the war broke 
out. He first enlisted as a private in the 
" Cameron Guards " for a term of three 
months. This ended, he returned and 
helped raise a company of forty men, which 
was assigned to Colonel Good's regiment 
(later Colonel Gobin's), with James Casey, 
of Perry county, as captain and himself as 
first lieutenant. He participated in the 
battles of Gainsville, St. John's Bluff and 
Pocotaligo, where he was severely wounded. 
A grape shot struck him between the eyes 
and passing to the left destroyed the eye, 
shattered the bones of the face, injuring the 
nerves and lodged near the carotic artery. 
While lying upon the field he was for a 
while given up for dead. When able to 
leave the hospital he returned to Harrisburg, 
received the rank of captain and was ap- 
pointed quartermaster, which position he 
held until the expiration of his term of 
service. After that he removed to Clark's 
Valley, but failing health compelled him to 
relinguish a small farm he had purchased, 
and in 1879 he settled in Dauphin until his 
death. Captain Geety was a member of the 
Veteran Association of Dauphin, and of Post 
58, G. A. R., of Harrisburg, a staunch Re- 
publican, and for some years a member of 
the county committee. Captain Geety mar- 
ried, in 1858, Henrietta Thompson, who 
with four children survive. 



Sees, William Edwards, eldest son of 
David and Ann Fell (Edwards) Sees, was 
born in Harrisburg, February 3, 1832. His 
education was received in the common 
schools of his native place, and early in life 
commenced to learn the business of coach 
trimming with his father, who was a skilled 
workman, and became in time a good me- 
chanic. He was a member and an officer of 
the old Friendship Fire Company, of Har- 
risburg, noted for his efficiency and daring, 
and twice came very near losing his life in 
endeavoring to save the property of others, 
once at afire in the United States Hotel, and 
again at the cotton factory. When the war 
for the Union broke out, he enlisted as a 
private in the three months' service. In 
1862 he was commissioned captain in the 
new Eleventh Pennsylvania, three years' 
service, but his health failing him, he was 
discharged on surgeon's certificate of dis- 



ability. On April 19, 1855, he married Mary 
Catherine Kunkel, of Baltimore, Md. She 
died on February 27, 1856, leaving one son, 
David. On September 13, 1857, he married 
Mary Elizabeth, daughter of Jonathan and 
Julia Ann (Mowrer) Chandler. Captain Sees 
died October 5, 1865, of consumption con- 
tracted in the army, and left one daughter 
by the second marriage, Catherine. The 
Rev. Charles A. Hay, D. D., pastor of Zion's 
Lutheran church, published a memoir of 
Captain Sees, detailing his religious life and 
experience, which is quite interesting. 



Keefer, John Brua, son of Andrew and 
Catherine (Brua) Keefer, was born April 10, 
1832, at Harrisburg, Pa. He received his 
education at the public schools of the bor- 
ough and at the Harrisburg Military Insti- 
tute, established by Capt. Alden Partridge 
in 1845. Subsequently he learned the trade 
of a machinist in the shops of the Philadel- 
phia & Reading Railroad Company, at 
Reading. From 1853 to 1864 he carried on 
a foundry and machine shop at Cressona, 
Schuylkill county, Pa. He then engaged 
in the oil trade in Venango county, and 
afterwards carried on the rolling-mill busi- 
ness at Allentown. From 1870 to 1877 he 
was engaged in the manufacture of fire- 
bricks at Harrisburg. On the 13th of Feb- 
ruary, 1S77, he was commissioned by Presi- 
dent Grant, major and paymaster in the 
United States army, and at present in ac- 
tive service. Major Keefer married, Novem- 
ber 27, 1854, Catherine R Boyer, of Read- 
ing. Their children were Horace A., Cath- 
erine A., who married Lieut. J. W. Duncan, 
U. S. A., Edith M., who married H. M. 
Paxton, Mary F., Frank R., and Caroline R. 



McCormick, James, second son of James 
McCormick and his wife, Eliza Buehler, was 
born October 31, 1832. in Harrisburg, Pa. 
He was educated in the common schools, 
Captain Partridge's military institute, the 
Harrisburg Academy, graduating from Yale 
College in 1853 ; studied law under his 
father ; was admitted to the bars of Dauphin 
and Cumberland counties, and practiced for 
several years. Upon the death of his father, 
he became one of the trustees of his estate, 
a charge that absorbed his time and atten- 
tion to such a degree that he abandoned his 
profession. The magnitude of this estate 
and the enterprises conducted under it re- 
quire caution, prudence and judgment in its 



256 



BIO GRA PEICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



management. Mr. McCormick has shown 
all these qualities in the successful perform- 
ance of his duties. He has never held polit- 
ical office, but in the religious and charitable 
work of the day occupies a conspicuous posi- 
tion. He had" been an elder in the Pine 
Street Presbyterian church from 1858 to 
1894, a successful Sunday-school tutor, presi- 
dent and trustee of the Young Men's Chris- 
tian Association ; in all the active work of 
his denomination a most efficient and liberal 
agent; a large contributor to the Home for 
the Friendless, Harrisburg ; to all charitable 
objects, and, from its opening, president of 
the Harrisburg Hospital — one of its most 
active, attentive and competent advisers. 
He married, May 26, 1859, at Harrisburg, 
Pa., Mary Wilson" Alricks, born November 
24, 1833; died August 5, 1881, at Harris- 
burg, Pa.; daughter of Herman Alricks and 
Marv Wilson Kerr. 



Johnson, John Bucher, son of David M. 
Johnson and Susan Dorothy Bucher, daughter 
of Judge Jacob Bucher, was born January 26, 
1833, in Harrisburg, Pa. He was educated 
in the public schools of the town and in Cap- 
tain Paitridge's military school, but com- 
pleted his education at Washington College, 
Pa., where he graduated in the class of 1852. 
He adopted civil engineering as his profes- 
sion, and until 1861 was engaged in several 
of the public improvements in this State. At 
the breaking out of the Rebellion he entered 
the Eleventh Pennsylvania regiment, Colo- 
nel Jarrett, and was appointed captain of a 
company from Pittston. On May 14, 1861, 
he was appointed by the Secretary of War, 
General ■ Cameron, first lieutenant in the 
Sixth cavalry of the regular army, and was 
subsequently made brevet major and lieu- 
tenant colonel for meritorious service. He 
became captain by regular promotion Feb- 
ruary 3, 1875. He served on the staff of 
General Hancock at Baltimore and at New 
Orleans, and was afterwards assigned to sev- 
eral stations in Texas. In April, 1870, he 
was obliged to leave Texas on account of 
failing health, and returned to his home at 
Harrisburg, where he died June 24, 1871. 

Chester, Thomas Morris, son of George 
and Jane Maria (Russell) Chester, was born 
March 11, 1834, at Harrisburg, Pa. In Janu- 
ary, 1851, he entered the preparatory depart- 
ment of the Avery College, Allegheny City, 
where he remained until January, 1853,when 



he sailed for Liberia, West Africa, in the ship 
" Banshee," arriving at Monrovia on the 3d 
of June, of the same year. At Monrovia he 
attended the Alexandria high school for one 
year, then returned to America, and in De- 
cember, 1854, entered the junior class of Thet- 
ford Academy, Vermont. He graduated from 
that institution in 1856. In January, 1857, 
he entered upon the duties of superintendent 
of recaptured Africans from American slave 
vessels at Cape Mount, Liberia, to instruct 
them in civilized customs. He published 
and edited the Star of Liberia, at Monrovia, 
and was the correspondent of the New York 
Herald at that point. In January, 1862, he 
returned to America on account of the civil 
strife, and assisted in recruiting the Fifty- 
fourth and Fifty-fifth Massachusetts regi- 
ments, the first colored troops raised for the 
war. In 1867 he went to England, entered 
Middle Temple, one of the Inns of Court at 
London, for the study of law, and was 
called to the English bar in 1870. While 
in England he was appointed aide-de-camp 
to President Payne,of Liberia, with the rank 
of major, and was intrusted with important 
missions to the courts of Russia and Belgium. 
In July, 1870, Avery College conferred upon 
him the degree of Master of Arts. On his 
return to the United States in 1871, he went 
to New Orleans, and received the appoint- 
ment of storekeeper in the custom service. 
In March, 1873, he was admitted to the prac- 
tice of law in the courts of Louisiana, by 
being admitted to the Supreme Court of the 
State. Governor Kellogg the same year 
appointed him brigadier general of the First 
brigade of Louisiana militia. In 1875 he 
was appointed district superintendent of 
public education of the first division, com- 
prising seven parishes, including the white 
and colored schools, and in 1876 superin- 
tendent of the fifth division, comprising 
thirteen parishes. In 1878 he was appointed 
United States commisioner for the district of 
Louisiana. On the 22d of June, 1881, he was 
admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of 
Pennsylvania, and at the November term, 
1882, made his first appearance at the bar of 
his native city and county. 



Finney, Isaac S., son of George Washing- 
ton and Elspey (Smith) Finney, was born 
September 6, 1835, at Halifax, Dauphin 
county, Pa. He entered the navy as third 
assistant engineer in 1859, and joined the 
" Mystic," which was detailed for duty on the 



M 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



257 



coast of Africa. On November 25, 1861, he 
was promoted to the rank of second assistant 
engineer. He afterwards joined the " Tus- 
carora," and was present during the engage- 
ment at Fort Fisher and while engaged in 
the pursuit of the "Alabama," and remained 
on her until 1864, when he was promoted to 
the rank of first assistant engineer and or- 
dered to shore duty, but this lasted only for 
a few days, for on June 23 he was ordered to 
join the frigate "Susquehanna," belonging to 
the North Atlantic squadron, and remained 
on her until June 25, 1866, when he went on 
shore duty at the Philadelphia and Ports- 
mouth navy yards for a brief period of time. 
On May 25, 1867, he joined the " Minnesota" 
and remained on her until January 31, 1868. 
On January 26, 1870, he joined the frigate 
" Colorado," fitting out for the Asiatic squad- 
ron, and remained on her until she went out 
of commission March 25, 1873. Upon his 
turn he received his promotion to chief en- 
gineer. During the "Virginius" excitement, 
and when a war with Spain appeared prob- 
able, he voluntarily relinguished the agree- 
able position he held of superintendent of 
construction of government machinery at 
Newburgh-on-the-Hudson, to join his old 
ship, the " Colorado." From the evil effects 
of his six months' sojourn on board that 
vessel off the coast of Cuba and Key West 
he never recovered, and died at Brooklyn, 
New York, November 19, 1874. He was in- 
terred in the family burial lot in the Harris- 
burg cemetery. 



Sees, Maj. Oliver Washington, was born 
in the city of Philadelphia, on the 27th of 
October, 1835. He was the second son of 
David Sees and Ann Fell Edwards. His 
parents had removed from Harrisburg. to 
Philadelphia in 1832, but returned to their 
old home on the 1st day of January, 1839. 
Oliver Sees did not have the advantages of 
a liberal education. When quite young, 
about twelve years of age, he became a 
messenger boy in the first magnetic telegraph 
office that was opened in Harrisburg after 
the wonderful discovery by Professor Morse, 
the office being under the management of 
David Brooks. The latter became very 
much interested in the bright-eyed, youth- 
ful messenger, and under his special care 
and teaching Oliver rapidly developed into 
an operator, and finally became one of the 
most expert and accomplished in the busi- 
ness. He was one of the first to learn to read 



messages by sound. His interest was so 
great in the success of the laying of the At- 
lantic cable that when the news reached 
Harrisburg of its final accomplishment, he 
was chiefly instrumental in getting up a 
very enthusiastic demonstration to celebrate 
that event. Mr. Sees' knowledge and special 
fitness in his business were so marked that 
on the 23d day of December, 1861, Governor 
Curtin appointed him chief of telegraph, with 
the rank of major, and shortly afterwards 
added that of chief of transportation, two 
very important positions during the war. 
The duties of these combined offices he dis- 
charged with signal ability and entire satis- 
faction. In connection with this arduous 
work the General Government intrusted 
Major Sees with the key to the secret service 
cipher, used in the transmission of the most 
vital and important messages by the General 
Government in relation to matters at that 
critical period, and which could only be de- 
ciphered through a knowledge of this key. 
About this period he was appointed by Maj. 
Gen. D.N. Couch, who was directing military 
operations at this point, on his staff, and 
mustered into the United States service. Im- 
mediately after the battle of Gettysburg, 
Governor Curtin ordered Major Sees to the 
battlefield to assist in caring for the dead 
and wounded Pennsylvania soldiers who 
fell on that memorable occasion, a duty he 
performed well. On his way back to Har- 
risburg he was taken very sick at Carlisle, 
and died in this city on the 30th day of 
September, 1863, before he was twenty-eight. 
The following is an extract from the re- 
port of Col. M. S. Quay to Gov. Andrew < r. 
Curtin. Colonel Quay was the successor of 
Major Sees as chief of transportation. 

" The invasion of the State, in June, 1863, 
by the army of General Lee, and your call 
for the militia forces which immediately fol- 
lowed, occasioned a large influx of business 
of pressing importance, which occupied the 
chief of the department, Major Sees, and his 
clerical force for weeks. 

" The United States having assumed the 
payment of the expenses of the transporta- 
tion of the militia, .Major Sees was placed 
temporarily in their service, and assigned a 
position on the staff of Major General Couch, 
commanding the Department of the Susque- 
hanna. He was relieved by General Couch, 
at his own request, and was immediately 
afterwards ordered to Gettysburg by you to 
look after our dead and wounded. 



258 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



" The extraordinary labors he found neces- 
sary during this period, extending at times 
through successive days and nights, with the 
exposure and fatigue sustained at Gettys- 
burg, undoubtedly produced illness through 
which your administration lost a faithful 
and competent officer, and his family a hus- 
band and father who was their only sup- 
port." 

Major Sees was married to Caroline, 
daughter of Charles Buehler and Sarah 
Hoover, at Harrisburg, on the 22d day of 
September, 1857; the widow and one daugh- 
ter, Caroline, survived him. 

Lawrence, Samuel M., son of Joseph and 
Maria (Bucher) Lawrence, was born in Wash- 
ington county, Pa., December 14, 1835. His 
father's death occurring when he was six 
years old his mother removed two years 
later to Harrisburg, her former home, where 
she continued to reside during the remainder 
of her life, and here Samuel received his 
principal education, although attending Jef- 
ferson College for a time. From boyhood 
he was a remarkable student, and had a 
perfect hunger for knowledge. At an early 
age he adopted the profession of civil en- 
gineering, and was engaged in the survey of 
the Sunbury & Erie (now Philadelphia & 
Erie) railroad, and continued on it until 
its completion in 1864. He was perfectly 
familiar with every part of the road, and 
had traveled it all on foot from Sunbury to 
Erie. He was one of the four original con- 
tractors who built the Oil Creek railroad, 
and also chief engineer of it. He was also 
engaged in the survey of the Warren and 
Franklin road at the time of his death. He 
was nominated by the Republican party in 
the counties of Clearfield, McKean, Jefferson 
and Elk for the Legislature, and represented 
them in the session of 1860-61, thus spend- 
ing the winter in Harrisburg, his old home. 
He married, April 4, 1864, Hannah, daugh- 
ter of Hon. John Green. He resided in 
Warren the last three or four years of his 
life and died there October 17, 1864, in his 
twenty-ninth year. He is buried in Harris- 
burs;. 



1853, graduating in 1856. He then went to 
Texas, where he remained two years, teach- 
ing in Victoria and Goliad. After returning 
North, he began the study of law with 
Robert A. Lamberton, Esq., and was ad- 
mitted to the Dauphin county bar December 
6, 1859. He began the practice of his pro- 
fession at Harrisburg, continuing 'until his 
appointment by Governor Curtin, in 1861, 
as chief clerk in the office of the secretary of 
the Commonwealth. On May 1, 1866, he 
was appointed deputy secretary of the Com- 
monwealth, discharging the duties of that 
office until the close of Governor Curtin's 
administration. He then resumed his pro- 
fession of the law, and in connection with it 
served as clerk to the Board of Claims from 
January to June 1, 186S. In October fol- 
lowing, having been nominated by the Re- 
publicans of the city of Harrisburg, lie was 
elected mayor thereof, the duties of which 
office he entered upon January 11, 1869. 
His health, however, soon began to fail him, 
and he died while in office, in his thirty- 
fourth year. " Mr. Hays was a truly Chris- 
tian gentleman, he thought more of right 
than he did of life. His nature was of that 
intensity which inspires men to die for the 
truth, while his convictions on all subjects 
relating to the ordinary and extraordinary 
affairs of life, here and hereafter, were gov- 
erned by the strongest principles of religion 
and justice." Mr. Haj's married, March 5, 
1861, Mary Straughan Day, born September 
13, 1837 ; 'daughter of Dr. Stephen F. Day 
and Eliza Floyd Straughan, of Wooster, 0. 



Hays, William Wallace, was born Octo- 
ber 23, 1836 ; died March 31, 1870, at Har- 
risburg, Pa. He received his prepara ory 
education in the public schools and Harris- 
burg Academy; entered the sophomore 
class of Jefferson College, Canonsburg, in 



Awl, Francis Asbury, son of John Mi- 
chael Awl, was born at Harrisburg, April 8, 
1837, where he resides. At the beginning of 
the Civil war in 1861 served in the three 
months' service as adjutant of the Eleventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. In 1862 
raised for the nine months' service company 
A of the One Hundred and Twenty-seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and par- 
ticipated in the Fredericksburg campaign. 
In 1864 he assisted in organizing the Two 
Hundred and First regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, of which he was commissioned 
colonel and served in that capacity until 
mustered out at the close of the war. He 
was a clerk in the Harrisburg National Bank 
prior to the war; subsequently cashier of the 
banking house of Jay Cooke & Co., in New 
York, for a period of seven years ; was a trus- 
tee for twelve years of the Pennsylvania State 



«B9 



lUi 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



259 



Lunatic Hospital and secretary of the board; 
and from 1891 to 1896 deputy superintend- 
ent of banking. Colonel Awl married, June 
5, 1S72, Marv Elizabeth Thompson, born 
August 9, 1847, in New York City. They 
have two sons, Jay Wesley and Francis As- 
burv. 



Maloney, Thomas Francis, son of Daniel 
and Mary (Houran) Maloney, was born 
August 19, 1843, in county Tipperary, Ire- 
land. His parents emigrated to America in 
1847, and settled at Harrisburg. Thomas 

F. was educated in the public schools of 
Harrisburg, afterwards at St. Michael's Sem- 
inary, near Pittsburgh, at St. Vincent's Col- 
lege, at Latrobe, Pa. He learned the trade 
of a machinist with W. 0. Hickok, at the 
Eagle Works, Harrisburg. During the Re- 
bellion he enlisted as a private in company 
A, One Hundred and Twenty-Seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, July 22, 1862 ; 
appointed corporal of the company July 26, 
1862 ; promoted sergeant August 1, 1862 ; 
promoted first sergeant August 6, 1862, and 
to adjutant of the independent battalion 
November 4, 1862, and mustered out with 
the regiment May 8, 1863. He was ap- 
pointed conditionally by Governor Curtin 
second lieutenant and mustering officer 
United States volunteers August 4, 1861, and 
upon the organization of the Two Hundred 
and First regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
was commissioned captain of company F, 
August 27, 1864, serving with the command 
of the Army of the Potomac until his muster 
out by reason of General Order No. 94, A. 

G. 0. War Department series, June 21, 1865. 
Upon the reorganization of the First City 
Zouaves of Harrisburg, Captain Maloney, 
in 1S69, was elected first lieutenant, and De- 
cember 16, 1870, commissioned captain of 
company A of the Zouave battalion. When 
the National Guard of Pennsylvania was 
established the company became known as 
the City Grays of Harrisburg, and on the 
organization of the Eighth regiment, Penn- 
sylvania National Guard, was attached to 
that command and mustered in as company 
D. He was re-commissioned December 14, 
1875, and December 16,1880; was one of the 
senior members in the service, and *re- 
peatedly refused a field office, preferring to 
remain with his company, which has no 
superior in the National Guard. On the 
first of February, 1883, he was appointed 



arsenel keeper of the State arsenal at Harris- 
burg. Captain Maloney married, in 1863, 
Ellen, daughter of John Casey, of Harrisburg. 
It may be stated in this connection that Cap- 
tain Maloney was the author of a military 
manual on " Guard Duty " which is consid- 
ered an authority on the subject. 



McCrkath, Andrew S., son of William 
McCreath (died 1878, aged seventy-five) and 
Margaret Chrichton (died 1870, aged sixty- 
three), was born March 8, 1849, in Ayr, 
Scotland. He was educated at Ayr Acad- 
emy and Glasgow University for classical 
course. He took special chemical courses 
at Andersonian University, Glasgow, under 
Professors Penny and Dr. Clark, and subse- 
quently at Gottingen, under Professors 
Wochler and Filtig. He came to America 
in 1870, and assumed charge of the chemi- 
cal laboratory at the Pennsylvania steel 
works, where he remained till August, 1874, 
when he was appointed by the State geolo- 
gist, chemist to the Second Geological Sur- 
vey of Pennsylvania, which position he still 
holds. He has prepared three reports for 
the State geologist, and special reports on 
the mineral resources along the lines of the 
Shenandoah Valley, Norfolk and Western, 
and New River railroads. He is actively 
engaged in his profession. He was married 
February 4, 1875, to Eliza, daughter of 
Charles L. and Marv W. Hummel Berghaus. 



Awl, John Wesley, was born at Harris- 
burg, on the 21st of November, 1852, 
and died there on the 2d of March, 1894; 
was educated at Dickinson College, read law 
with F. K. Boas, Esq., and admitted to the 
bar in 1856. During the war for the Union 
lie entered the service in 1S62 as captain in 
the One Hundred and Twenty-seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers. Upon tin 1 
organization of the Two Hundred and 
First, Pennsylvania volunteers, he was com- 
missioned lieutenant colonel: in May. 1865, 
was appointed commandant of the " Soldier's 
Rest" at Alexandria, Va.; mustered out with 
his regiment June 21, 1865. l'p on the or- 
ganization of the National Guard of Penn- 
sylvania he was adjutant of the Fifth di- 
vision, and subsequently adjutant of the 
Third brigade; as an attorney he was care- 
ful, methodical and trustworthy; as a mili- 
tary officer he was highly regarded by his 



260 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



fellow-officers aud greatly loved by his men; 
a life-long member of the church of bis 
father, he was a faithful official. He was 
unmarried. 



Anderson, Rev. James, was a native of 
Scotland, born November 17, 1678, was edu- 
cated under Principal Stirling, of Glasgow, 
and ordained by Irvine Presbytery, Novem- 
ber 17, 1708, with a view to his settlement in 
Virginia. He sailed March 6, 1709, and ar- 
rived in the Rappahannock on the 22d of 
April following, but the state of things there 
not warranting his stay, he came northward, 
and was received by the Presbytery September 
20. He settled at New Castle. In 1714, out 
of regard to the desolate condition of the 
people in Kent county, he was directed to 
supply them monthly on a Sabbath, and 
also to spend a Sabbath at Cedar creek, in 
Sussex. He subsequently ministered in New 
York, but owing to some difficulties in the 
congregation there he desired a removal. 
He was called September 24, 1726, to Done- 
gal, on the Susquehanna, and accepted it. 
He was installed the last Wednesday in 
August, 1727. In September, 1729, he gave 
every fifth Sabbath to the people on Swatara, 
and joined the congregation of Derry, thus 
becoming the first settled pastor over that 
church, until the call of Rev. William Ber- 
tram, 1732. He died July 16, 1740. In the 
language of the Presbytery, "he was high in 
esteem for circumspection, diligence and 
faithfulness as a Christian minister." The 
Rev. Mr. Anderson married, February, J 712- 
13, Suit Garland, daughter of Sylvester Gar- 
land, of the Head of Apoquinimy. She 
died December 24, 1736. He then married 
Rachel Wilson, December 27, 1737. His son 
Garland Anderson, married Jane, daughter 
of Peter Chevalier, of Philadelphia, but died 
early. His daughter Elizabeth married Sam- 
uel Breeze, resided in New York, and was a 
woman of great excellence. A brother of the 
Rev. Mr. Anderson was John Anderson, of 
Perth Amboy, who in 1712 was made one of 
the council of the Province of New Jersey. 
He died in March, 1736, aged seventy-three, 
being then president of the council. 

Black, Rev. Samuel, was a native of the 
north of Ireland, born about 1700. He 
studied theology prior to his emigrating to 
America, and was subsequently licensed by 
New Castle Presby tery. The forks of Brandy- 
wine in Chester county was formed into a 



separate congregation in 1735, and in Sep- 
tember same year, Donegal Presbytery gave 
them leave to invite Black to preach as a 
candidate for settlement. He was called 
October 7, and ordained November 18, 1735. 
A portion of his people preferred complaints 
against him September 2, 1740. This was 
just at the time of the extraordinary effects 
produced by the preaching of Whitfield. 
Most of the allegations were sustained, but 
after a rebuke and suspension for a season, 
he was restored, and afterwards released 
from the pastoral relation. The new con- 
gregation of Conewago between Middletown 
and Mount Joy called him in October, 1741, 
and he was installed the second Wednesday 
in May following. He made occasional 
visits to Virginia as a missionary, and was 
sent to Potomac in 1743. Difficulties arose 
in his flock at Conewago and they asked to 
have the Rev. John Steel, who was supply- 
ing Conestoga, sent to them. North and 
South Mountain in Virginia (the former six 
miles west of Staunton) asked for him, 
March 6, 1745. He was dismissed from 
Conewago in April, but in the fall they 
sought to regain him. A division took 
place. Those who left him obtained one- 
fifth of the time of the Rev. John Roan, 
pastor of the New Side churches of Paxtang 
and Derry. In 1747, he, with Revs. Thom- 
son and Craig, was directed to take the over- 
sight of the vacancies in Virginia. In 1751 
he was directed to supply Buffalo settlement 
and the adjacent places four Sabbaths. He 
took charge of the congregations of Rock- 
port and Mountain Plain before 1752. He 
died August 9, 1770. 

Roan, Rev. John, was born April 30, 
1717 (O. S.), in Grenshaw, Ireland , died 
October 3, 1775, in Derry township, Lancas- 
ter, now Dauphin county, Pa. Ke received 
a good education, and emigrated to Penn- 
sylvania about 1740. He entered the " Log 
College," and taught school on the Nesha- 
rniny and in Chester county while pursuing 
his theological studies. He was licensed by 
the "New Side" Presbytery of New Castle, 
and, in the winter of 1744, sent to Hanover, 
Va. The following year (1745), he was set- 
tled 1 over the united congregations of Derry, 
Paxtang and Conewago, the latter having 
one-fifth of his time. The minutes of the 
Synod placed Roan in Donegal Presbytery, 
and " points of difficulty," says Webster, 
" continually arose." Toward the latter 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



261 



days of his ministry Mr. Roan missionated 
frequently on the south branch of the Poto- 
mac. He lies interred in Derry church 
graveyard. On his tombstone is this in- 
scription : 

Beneath this stone are deposited the Remains 
of an able, faithful courageous & successful 
minister of Jesus Christ The Rev'd John Roan 
Pastor of Paxton, Derry & Mount Joy Congrega- 
tions from the year 174-5 till Oct. 3, 1775 when 
he exchanged a Militant for a triumphant Life 
in the 59 year of his Age. 

The Rev. John Roan married, August 21, 
1750, Mrs. Anne (Cochran) Leckey, born 
March 25, 1724; died April 22, 1788, in 
Chester county, Pa.; daughter of James 
Cochran and Anne Rowan. 



Sanckey, Rev. Richard, a native of the 
north of Ireland, was born about 1712. He 
studied theology at Glasgow under Principal 
Stirling, and came to America in the sum- 
mer of 1735. He was taken on trial by 
Donegal Presbytery the 7th of October same 
year, licensed October 13, 1736, and sent to 
the church on Manada creek. This congre- 
gation is first mentioned in October, 1735, 
Lazarus Stewart appearing to supplicate in 
its behalf the next year. The Rev. William 
Bertram, of Derry, moderated the call which 
was brought to the Presbytery for Mr. 
Sanckey by John Cunningham and Robert 
Green, June 22, 1737. From that time on- 
ward the congregation is styled Hanover. 
Mr. Sanckey accepted August 31, 1737, but 
it appearing that his trial sermon was tran- 
scribed out of books to give a false idea of 
his ministerial powers, and contained most 
dangerous errors, the Presbytery rebuked 
him and delayed his ordination. The Rev. 
George Gillespie remonstrated with the 
Synod not to countenance such levity es- 
pecially as Mr. Sanckey had sent the notes 
to Henry Hunter, <; who had preached them 
to his own overthrow." Hunter had passed 
himself off as an ordained minister of the 
New Light Presbytery of Antrim in the 
bounds of Lewes Presbytery, and the Synod 
finding his credentials of license genuine, 
but that he had not been ordained, that he 
had been guilty of prevarication, and also 
that money had been given him to go to the 
Bishop of London for orders, resolved, nem. 
con., not to countenance him, especially as 
there was " ground to suspect his principles," 



until he had gone through the ordinary 
course of trials in some of their Presbyteries. 
He acquiesed ; and coming before Newcastle 
Presbytery with notes stolen from heretical 
divines, he was rejected. The Synod blamed 
the Presbytery of Donegal for not taking 
notice in their minutes of Rev. Sanckey's 
plagiarism, or censuring him on that ac- 
count, but as he had been sharply rebuked, 
and his ordination delayed a considerable 
time, they declined to lay any other burden 
on him. He was ordained August 31, 1738. 
For a period of twenty-one years Mr. Sanckey 
continued in the pastoral care of Hanover 
church. On June 6, 1758, having received 
a call to the congregation of Buffalo, in 
Virginia, and designing to remove there, he 
applied for and received his credentials from 
the Presbytery. Accompanied by many of 
the Hanover people, he removed in 1760, 
where he joined the Hanover Presbytery, 
and served his congregation faithfully and 
well. He presided at the opening of the 
Synod of Virginia in 1785; lived to a good 
old age, respected by his people and his 
brethren in the ministry. We have en- 
deavored to secure additional information in 
regard to him, date of his death, etc., but 
have failed. 



Lochman, Rev. John George, D. D., son 
of Nicholas and Maria (Schneider) Lochman. 
was born at Philadelphia, Pa., December 2, 
1773. After proper preparation be entered 
the University of Pennsylvania, at which 
he graduated, and from which institution lie 
subsequently received the doctorate. He 
studied theology under the direction of the 
celebrated Dr. Helmuth, a graduate of the 
University of Halle, and for many years 
professor of German and Oriental languages 
in the University of Pennsylvania. He was 
licensed to preach in 1704, and soon after ac- 
cepted a call to Lebanon, where he remained 
twenty-one years. In 1815 he was elected 
pastor of the United Evangelical Lutheran 
churches at Harrisburs;. Middletown and 
Shupp's, where he labored with great fidelity 
and the most satisfactory results. In 1817 
he was president of the German Lutheran 
Synod of the United States. Dr. Lochman's 
useful life terminated at Harrisburg, July 
10, 1825. The congregations, in their appre- 
ciation of his services erected a handsome 
monument over his remains, which are in- 
terred on the southeast side of the church. 



262 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



His wife, Sjusan Hoffman, died June 27, 
1830, and is buried by his side. Their son, 
the Rev. Augustus Lochman, D. D., who 
succeeded his father at Harrisburg, is now 
a venerable minister at York. Dr. Lochman 
was an able and popular preacher, was held 
in high estimation by the church, and exer- 
cised an unbounded influence. He was the- 
author of ''The History, Doctrine and Disci- 
pline of the Evangelical Lutheran Church," 
published in 1817, and several other works. 
Their children were: Rev. Dr. Augustus H., 
William H, Louisa, who married Rev. Roth- 
rauff, Susan, Camilla B., who married Will- 
iam Keller, Emma, who married John Heis, 
of Illinois, and Annie, who married Fred- 
erick V. Beisel. 



the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Mitchell mar- 
ried a daughter of Dr. Benjamin J. Wiest- 
ling, of Middletown, Pa. 



Mitchell, Andrew Dinsmore, was born in 
York county, Pa., February 2, 1824. He 
graduated at Jefferson College in 1841, and 
afterwards spent some time in teaching. In 
1844 he matriculated at Princeton Theolog- 
ical Seminary, where he prepared for the 
ministry. He came under the care of the 
Carlisle Presbytery in 1849 as a licentiate 
from the Donegal Presbytery, and at the 
same time calls were placed at his hands 
from the united charges of Paxtang and 
Derry. These he accepted, and in 1850 was 
ordained and installed pastor of that people, 
whom he acceptabty served until 1874, when 
at his own request the pastoral relation was 
dissolved. Subsequently he declined certain 
positions that were offered him, but in 1876 
he accepted the appointment of chaplain in 
the United States army by his friend, Hon. 
J. D. Cameron, then Secretary of War. He 
spent five years at the military prison of 
Fort Leavenworth, Kan., and was transferred 
in the fall of 1881 to Fort Grant, Ari., where 
he died on the 26th of March, 1882, aged 
fifty-eight years. Mr. Mitchell had also 
been the very acceptable stated clerk of the 
Carlisle Presbytery from 1857 to the year of 
his appointment as chaplain, 1876, when lie 
resigned and received the special commenda- 
tion of the Presbytery for his faithful ser- 
vices. He had been repeatedly sent as a 
commissioner to the General Assembly, and 
in 1868 he was elected moderator of the Bal- 
timore Synod, when the Carlisle Presbytery 
formed. a part of that body. He was very 
decided in his convictions, yet tolerant of 
the opinions of others and was a warm friend 
of the union between the two branches of 



DeWitt, William Radcliff, the son of 
John DeWitt and Katharine Van Vliet. was 
born at Paulding's Manor, Dutchess county, 
N. Y., on the 25th of February, 1792. His 
ancestors were among the first immigrants 
from Holland to New Nethelands, in 1623. 
His early years were spent in commercial 
pursuits, but about 1810 he turned his atten- 
tion to the sacred ministry. He studied with 
Dr. Alexander Proudfit, of Salem, N.Y., and 
entered Washington Academy. The war of 
1812 interrupting his studies, he volunteered 
in the regiment of Colonel Rice, and was in 
service at Lake Champlain at the time of 
McDonough's victory, September 11, 1814. 
After the close of the war, in 1815, he entered 
Nassau Hall, Princeton, as a sophomore, but 
subsequently entered the senior class of 
Union College, Schenectady, where he grad- 
uated with distinction, completing histheolog- 
ical studies under Rev. Dr. John M. Mason, 
of New York. He was licensed to preach by 
the Presbytery of New York April 23, 1818. 
In the fall of that year he came to Harris- 
burg by invitation, and was called to the 
pastorate of the Presbyterian church October 
5, 1818. He was received by the Presbytery 
of Carlisle April 13, 1819, but not ordained 
until the 26th of October, that year. Dr. De- 
Witt received the degree of A. M. in course 
from Union College, and in 1838 the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania conferred on him 
the title of Doctor of Divinity. From 1854 
to 1860 he held the office of State libi'arian, 
appointed by Governors Bigler and Pollock. 
In 1854 felt the necessity of taking a colleague, 
Rev. T. H. Robinson, D. D.. He died at Har- 
risburg, December 23, 1867, in his seventy- 
sixth year. Dr. DeWitt was twice married, 
his first wife being Julia Woodhull, dauhgter 
of Rev. Nathan Woodhull, of Newton, L. I. 
His second wife was Mary Elizabeth Wal- 
lace, daughter of William Wallace, of Har- 
risburg, who survived her husband. During 
a ministry of nearly fifty years in Harris- 
burg, Dr. DeWitt enjoyed the confidence of 
all his ministerial brethren. In the com- 
munity he was greatly appreciated and re- 
spected by all classes. As a theologian he 
had few equals in the ministr} 7 , and although 
firm and decided in his views, he was liberal 
and catholic in spirit. His published writ- 
ings were limited to twelve or thirteen pam- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



263 



phlets, the most popular of which was a 
small volume entitled " Her Price above 
Rubies." He preached many powerful dis- 
courses, a volume of which should certainly 
be preserved in permanent form. 



three. Over his remains, in the Harrisburg 
cemetery, the denomination have erected a 
handsome monument. 



Winebrenner, Rev. John, was born in 
Frederick county, Md., March 24, 1797. He 
was partly educated at the Glades school in 
Frederick, and partly at Dickinson College, 
Carlisle. He studied for the ministry under 
the Rev. Mr. Helfenstein, in Philadelphia, 
and was ordained by the Potomac Synod of 
the Reformed Church in September, 1820, 
at Hagerstown. That year he was called to 
the Salem church at Harrisburg, at the same 
time ministering to Shoop's, Wenrick's and 
the Freiden's churches in the neighbor- 
hood. It was during his pastorate that the 
present church edifice, Third and Chestnut 
streets, was erected. Mr. Winebrenner min- 
istered here from October 22, 1820, to March 
23, 1823, when, owing to his religious views 
on revivals, Sunday-schools, anti-slavery and 
the temperance movement, with the allow- 
ing of non-ordained persons to preach in his 
pulpit, becoming obnoxious to his congrega- 
tion, a separation took place. In a number 
of pamphlets he issued Mr. Winebrenner 
vigorously defended his principles from the 
attacks made right and left by his oppo- 
nents; and he did not cease therefore "to 
preach the word." Subsequently his ener- 
gies were devoted to the establishment of a 
new denomination, called by him the 
Church of God, but known in early years as 
Winebrennarians. He met with remarkable 
success, and although but fifty years have 
passed since the Rev. John Winebrenner 
promulgated the doctrines of baptism by 
immersion and the washing of feet, the min- 
isters of that church number probably five 
hundred, and the membership well on to 
sixty thousand. Mr. Winebrenner was the 
author of a number of religious and contro- 
versial works, those on "Regeneration," 
"Brief Views of the Church of God," and a 
volume of "Practical and Doctrinal Ser- 
mons" being the more important. He 
edited for several years the Gospel Publisher, 
now the Church Advocate. In the early years 
of his ministry he was an uncompromising 
opponent of human slavery. The Rev. Mr. 
Winebrenner died at Harrisburg, on the 
12th of September, 1860, at the age of sixty- 



Ross, Joseph, was born July 14, 1798, at 
Elizabethtown, Pa.; died January 26, 1863, 
at Middletown, Pa. At a proper age he 
went to Harrisburg, Pa., to learn the mer- 
cantile business. Afterwards he engaged in 
said occupation in that place, and then 
moved to Middletown, where he continued 
keeping store till near the close of his life. 
In the year 1824 he became acquainted with 
Rev. John Winebrenner, who visited Mid- 
dletown to preach the gospel, and under 
him became converted. At the first oppor- 
tunity he identified himself with the Church 
of God, being one of the original members 
of that denomination in Middletown, where 
he continued to be among its most active 
workers until his death. His name appears 
as a ruling elder in the journal of the Fourth 
Annual Eldership, held at Middletown, De- 
cember 25, 1833. He was licensed to preach 
at the Seventh Annual Eldership which 
convened at Churchtown, Cumberland 
county, November 5, 1836. At the time of 
his death he was a member of the board of 
publication and treasurer of the General 
Eldership as well as treasurer of the East 
Pennsylvania Eldership. He traveled and 
labored in the ministry, at protracted and 
other meetings, " without money and with- 
out price," and was an eminently successful 
revival preacher. His liberality and benev- 
olence were all well known at home, and in 
all the churches. His warmth of heart and 
affection made him beloved by all his ac- 
quaintances. He was a strict disciplinarian, 
and a great lover of order. Besides, he car- 
ried his religion into his business, being 
scrupulously truthful and honest in all his 
dealings, loving justice and hating sin in 
every form. He was devotedly attached to 
the doctrines of the Church of God, fearlessly 
defended them, and worked actively to estab- 
lish them. Mr. Ross married, in 1822. Cath- 
arine Kunkel, daughter of Christian Kun- 
kel,of Harrisburg. She was born December 
22, 1803, and died in 1896 in the ninety- 
third year of her age. 

Keller, Rev. Emanuel, son of Peter and 
Catherine (Schaeffer) Keller, was born Sep- 
tember 30, 1801, at Harrisburg, Pa. He was 
educated in thecommon schoolsand academy 



264 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of the borough, and pursued his classical 
studies under the direction of his uncle, the 
Rev. Benjamin Keller. He subsequently 
entered Dickinson College, where he re- 
mained two years, when he began the study 
of theology with the Rev. Dr. Loch man, of 
Harrisburg. In 1826 he was licensed by 
the Lutheran Synod of Pennsylvania, and 
the same year began his ministerial labors 
at Manchester, Md. Thence he removed to 
Mechanicsburg, Pa., where he continued in 
the pastorate until a short period before his 
death, his enfeebled health obliging him to 
resign his charge. He died at Mechanics- 
burg, April 11, 1837, in the sixty-sixth year 
of his age, and is buried in Trindle Spring 
graveyard. The Rev. Mr. Keller married, 
April 14, 1825, Sabine Seltzer, of Harrisburg, 
and they have five children. 



Hay, Charles A.— The following sketch 
of Charles A. Hay, D. D., father of John W., 
was prepared by Prof. E. S. Breidenbaugh, 
Sc. D., and is taken from the Lutheran Ob- 
server of July 14, 1893 : 

" Charles Augustus Hay was born at York, 
Pa., February 11, 1821. He died suddenly 
from heart disease, at his home, Seminary 
Ridge, Gettysburg, June 26, 1893. He at- 
tended the schools of his native town, and 
was also directed in his studies by his uncle, 
Dr. J. G. Morris, so that he entered the 
sophomore class of Pennsylvania College, 
graduating in 1839. He pursued his theo- 
logical studies at Gettysburg, and at Berlin 
and Halle in Germany. These years spent 
in Germany were peculiarly rich in benefits 
and in memories to Dr. Hay. He enjoyed 
close intimacy with Prof. Tholuck and with 
his fellow-pupil, afterwards Prof. Lincoln of 
Brown University, who has spoken to me of 
the manner in which his fellow-students 
were attracted to Mr. Hay by reason of his 
scholarship, his modest bearing, and amiable 
disposition. 

Dr. Hay was licensed in 1843, and was for 
the greater portion of the following fifty 
years connected with the East Pennsylvania 
Synod, thus covering almost its whole history, 
and was one of the most influential members 
of the Synod. 

The first pastorate of Dr. Hay was Middle- 
town, Pa., in 1844, whence, the same year, 
be was called to the combined professorships 
of German in Pennsylvania College and in 
the Theological Seminary, continuing till 
1848, when he served the congregation at 



Hanover, Pa., for one year, being now called 
to the charge of Zion church, Harrisburg, 
continuing to serve these people till 1865, 
when he was again called to the institutions 
at Gettysburg, to the Theological Seminary 
as professor of Hebrew and Old Testament 
theology, pastoral theology, and German 
language and literature. During the re- 
cent commencement he had tendered his 
resignation, to take effect at the end of the 
current year. During that period (1866- 
1892) he served as pastor of Christ (College) 
church, Gettysburg, in connection with his 
professional duties. 

We knew Dr. Hay thus as pastor, teacher 
and also as author, curator of Historical So- 
ciety, laborer in general church work, and 
as citizen, but above all else as a man. In 
a few words I will imperfectly but truthfully 
refer to each. 

As pastor, he rounded the half century of 
labor ; for while over half the time from 
licensure in 1843 he was in professional 
positions, during the much larger portion of 
this period he was at the same time pastor 
of a congregation. If one requires any testi- 
mony to the character of the service of Dr. • 
Hay as pastor, let inquiries be made of the 
people of Harrisburg or of Gettysburg — not 
of Lutherans alone but of the whole commu- 
nity, of the church attendance and of the 
members of the Sunday-school. He fulfilled 
the injunctions of Paul, he was " gentle to 
all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness 
instructing them that oppose," "a wo.rkman 
that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly di- 
vining the word of truth ;" and he obeyed 
the word of the Lord to Paul, " Be not afraid, 
but speak, and hold not thy peace." The 
result in the congregations was souls saved, 
growth in Christian graces, and vigorous 
religious life, and on the death of the pastor 
tears that expressed but faintly the sense of 
a frieud, a counselor, a helper, a messenger 
from God. 

As professor, he possessed three great 
qualifications: he knew his subjects, he was 
deeply interested in his work, he was ready 
at all times to give assistance to the in- 
quirer. Speaking from personal knowledge, 
he quickened the interest of the student and 
led him to further research. Many genera- 
tions of students will bear testimony to the 
value of his service in the theological sem- 
inary, and the fruit of his teachings will 
never be lost in the church. 

As author, Dr. Hay has made contribu- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



265 



tions to reviews on Old Testament exegesis, 
on codices of the Scriptures, and on histori- 
cal and biographical topics, besides reviews. 
He has also prepared several biographical 
volumes, and has translated from German 
several important volumes and review arti- 
cles. As an author his style was clear and 
definite and his discussion thorough. His 
translations are highly commended for clear 
and accurate expression of the thoughts of 
the original. His last translation is Luther's 
Commentary on the Sermon on the Mount. 
With Dr. H. E. Jacobs he translated and 
edited Schmid's Dogmatik. 

In general church work Dr. Hay was 
always active and influential. In his dis- 
trict Synod, and in the General Synod, of 
which he was frequently a member, secre- 
tary in 1853, and president in 1881, he was 
a prominent figure, and helped quietly but 
decidedly to place the General S}*nod in its 
very excellent doctrinal position. He was 
for a number of years the chairman of the 
beneficiary education committee of the East 
Pennsylvania Synod, and a member of the 
executive committee of the Parent Educa- 
tion Society. The young men receiving aid 
know how he was interested in their welfare 
and sought the prompt payment of their 
money, while at the same time guarding the 
church against unworthy recipients of aid. 
Dr. Ha}' was an efficient trustee of Pennsyl- 
vania College from 1852, and served as sec- 
retary of the board 1867-80. In many 
other connections he was actively employed 
in the benefit of his greatly beloved Lu- 
theran Church. 

In work outside of the Lutheran Church, 
he was always ready to co-operate with other 
Christian people in any good cause. In 
local church and benevolent work, his assist- 
ance was eagerly sought and promptly given. 
He was from 1870 the president of the Penn- 
sylvania Bible Society, and for many years 
president, first, of the Harrisburg Bible So- 
ciety and subsequently of the Bible Society 
of the Theological Seminary and Pennsyl- 
vania College. 

Special attention is called to his very valu- 
able, his inestimably valuable service to the 
Lutheran Church as curator of the library of 
the Historical Society of the Lutheran 
Church. In 1SG9 he was elected to this 
position, and with his co-laborer, Dr. J. G. 
Morris, president of the society, he has col- 
lected and arranged in an accessible shape 
a great mass of manuscript and printed 



documents concerning general and local 
church history. This collection has excited 
the admiration and surprise of many who 
had, before consulting this collection, 
searched in vain for important historical 
data. If valuable now, time will only in a 
rapid ratio increase the value of this work. 
As a citizen, Dr. Hay was known as a con- 
scientious, earnest supporter of all measures 
which were calculated to advance the wel- 
fare of the individual and of the community. 
He was interested in the work of our public 
school system, and served as a member of 
the school board of the city of Harrisburg. 
This known interest led Governor Hoyt to 
offer him the position of State superintendent 
of public schools. 

Dr. Hay was an earnest advocate of the 
cause of the" poor, and of all who were op- 
pressed or needy ; his was a broad and wise 
philanthropy, which while seeking large 
results, labored for the individual and re- 
membered that units makeup the aggregate. 
The Civil war called out all the Christian 
patriotism of Dr. Hay. By voice and pen 
and example he showed himself theadvocate 
of the Union and the friend of the soldier. 
Many examples occur to the writer, but 
space forbid their recital — how he had his 
congregation to help fortify Harrisbui'g in 
1863, at Fort Washington; how he was im- 
prisoned by General Wool for criticising the 
General's leniency to rebel sympathizers: 
how he cared for the soldiers at Camp Curtin, 
and carried relief and comfort to the hospitals. 
Thus Dr. Hay has left behind him many 
memorials, as pastor, reformer, author, la- 
borer in the church, curator, citizen, friend : 
but the greatest memorial is that of his per- 
sonal life, a legacy begond all others to his 
children and to those privileged to call him 
friend. He was pure in thought, guileless in 
conduct, affectionate in manner, constant in 
advocacy of truth, wise in counsel, helpful to 
the stricken, by his very presence a dis- 
courager of vice, earnest and faithful in labor 
— a preacher who came with God's message 
to man, a pastor who was careful of the fold, 
a friend who sought the Christian advance- 
ment of his friends. We will miss him 
from the pulpit, from the altar, from the 
Sunday-school, from the sick room, from the 
social gathering, from the personal inter- 
course. Multitudes will rise up now and in 
the hereafter and call him blessed. We will 
say for him what his modesty would have 
forbidden him to appropriate for himself: 



266 



. BIO GRA PHICA L ENGYCL OPEDIA 



He has fought a good fight, he has finished 
his course, he has kept the faith ; henceforth 
there is laid up for him a crown of righteous- 
ness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, 
shall give him. 

Dr. Hay has left behind him a wife, three 
sons — Dr. John W., of Harrisburg; Rev. 
Charles E., of Allentown, Pa.; Rev. E.G., of 
Red Hook, N. Y. — and two daughters, the 
wives respectively of Rev. M. L. Heisler, of 
Harrisburg, and Prof. J. A. Himes, of Gettys- 
burg." 



Melick:, Rev. Justus A., was born, of 
pious Methodist parents, in Light Street, 
Columbia county, Pa., March 7, 1823, and 
thus at his death had completed by a few 
weeks sixty-three years of earthly pilgrim- 
age. From early childhood he gave evi- 
dence of a devoutness of spirit in the daily 
reading of the scriptures and in a fixed pur- 
pose to lead a pure and upright life. It 
was not, however, until he was student in 
the academy at Harford, Pa., possibly in 
his twentieth year, that he received the assur- 
ance of his acceptance as a child of God. 
This so changed the current of his thought 
that he cheerfully surrendered his cherished 
plan — to adopt the profession of law — and 
gave himself to the ministry, to which he 
felt called of God. After graduation, with 
honor as valedictorian of his class, he at- 
tended, for a term of years, the Genessee 
Wesleyan Seminary, at Lima, N. Y., as pre- 
parative to his life work. 

In 1848, with twenty-four other young 
men he was admitted on trial in the Balti- 
more conference. In 1850, at Alexandria, 
Va., he was received into full connection in 
the conference and ordained a deacon by 
Bishop Morris, and in 1852 was ordained 
elder, at Cumberland, Md.,by Bishop James. 
His first appointment was Bellefonte circuit, 
as junior preacher, being a colleague of Rev. 
Thompson Mitchell. His subsequent fields 
of labor were as follows: 1849, Clearfield ; 
1850, Lycoming; 1851, Berwick; 1852-3, 
Luzerne ; 1854-5, Lock Haven ; 1856-7, 
Great Island; 1858, Manor Hill; 1859-60, 
Birmingham; 1861-2, Woodberry ; 1863-4, 
Williamsburg; 1865-7, Newberry; 1868-9, 
Bloomsburg; 1870-1, Jersey Shore; 1872-4, 
Hollidaysburg; 1875-6, St. Paul's, Harris- 
burg. Here in the second year of his pastor- 
ate his health began to fail, and at the Wil- 
liamsport conference in 1877 he became 
supernumerary, and a year later settled 



down into the most sorrowful conviction of a 
Methodist preacher — work done, supernum- 
erated. The next eight j'ears were spent in 
Harrisburg, cheered by the loving associa- 
tions of a bright and happy home, the esteem 
of the church, the love of his brethren and 
the confidence of the whole communitj^ do- 
ing such work as his strength would permit. 

Rev. Jesse B. Young, his pastor during the 
last year of his life, in a memoir read at the 
memorial service held in the Grace church, 
Harrisburg, reviewed the character and 
achievements of Rev. Melick, paying an 
eloquent tribute to his unselfish devotion 
and loyalty to the cause of Christ. 

Rev. Melick was twice married. The wife 
of his early manhood was Miss Emeline E. 
Patchin, of Clearfield county, Pa., to whom 
he was united, October 28, 1851, and who 
shared for eleven years the toils and depri- 
vations of his early itinerancy. She died in 
1862, leaving him with three little children. 
He was married, secondly, in 1867, to Miss 
Emily Dunmire, who by her devotion to 
him in the years of their wedded life, and 
by her faithful and motherly care of the 
children, now grown to a beautiful, active 
Christian manhood and womanhood, has 
shown her eminent fitness for the delicate 
and responsible trust. 

His end was calm and peaceful, and his 
funeral was held in Grace Methodist Episco- 
pal church, Harrisburg, March 25, 18S6. A 
deeply affected and sympathetic congrega- 
tion filled the spacious edifice, and a large 
number of ministers of his own and other 
denominations by their presence expressed 
their appreciation of his worth and work. 



Calder, James, son of William and Mar}^ 
(Kirkwood) Calder, was born February 16, 
1826, at Harrisburg, Pa. He was educated 
in the public schools of the borough, the 
Harrisburg Academy, Partridge's military 
institute, and entered Wesle}'an University, 
Middletown, Conn., in 1845, from which he 
graduated August 1, 1849. In September 
following, he joined the Philadelphia con- 
ference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
and was stationed in Lancaster county, where 
he remained until 1851, when he was ap- 
pointed missionary to China, sailing from 
New York in the spring of that year. He 
reached Foo-Chow, his missionary station, 
in July following. He remained at this 
point until the year 1854, when having 
changed his views on church polity, he 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



267 



withdrew from the denomination, and re- 
turned to the United States. Soon after he 
became pastor of the Bethel church, Harris- 
burg, until the year 1S59, and in the mean- 
time editor of the Church Advocate, the organ 
of the Church of God. In 1857, while serv- 
ing in this pastorate, he took charge of the 
Shippensburg Collegiate Institute, contin- 
uing there one year, until owing to the 
death of his wife, he returned to Harrisburg. 
In 1862 the larger part of the congregation 
here, with their pastor, connected them- 
selves with the Free Will Baptists denom- 
ination, and erected a new church building 
on State and Fourth streets. The Rev. Mr. 
Calder ministered to that congregation until 
1S69, when he was elected president of 
Hillsdale College, Michigan, a Free Will 
Baptist institution. He continued at the 
head of that institution two j'ears; when, in 
1871, the presidency of the Pennsylvania 
State College having become vacant by the 
death of Dr. Burrowes, Mr. Calder was in- 
vited to succeed him. He accepted the po- 
sition, returned to Pennsylvania, and until 
June, 18S0, remained in charge of that in- 
stitution. He then resigned and came to 
Harrisburg, where he remained until his 
death, which occurred November 22, 1893. 
From 1890 to 1893 he filled the position of 
lecturer of the State Grange of Pennsyl- 
vania, and at the same time assistant editor 
of the Farmers' Friend, published in the 
interest of the State Grange. Hillsdale Col- 
lege, in 1866, conferred upon Mr. Calder the 
honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity. Dr. 
Calder married first, in 1850, Ellen C, 
daughter of the Rev. John Winebrenuer, 
who died in 1858. His second wife was Mrs. 
Eliza D. Murphy, daughter of the late Nich- 
olas Reamshart, of Harrisburg, who still 
survives. 

To the first union were born four children : 
Frank R., Harrisburg; James K., Hagers- 
town, Md.; Charles M., died August IS, 
1S80 ; A. Russell, Steelton, Pa. 

To the second union were born four chil- 
dren : William Carey, missionary in Burma ; 
Mary E., wife of Prof. John W. Heston; 
Everett, Washington: Howard L., Harris- 
burg; Wallace R., Harrisburg. 



Ohio, in 1846, having prepared in the pre- 
paratory department of the same institution, 
and graduated in 1850, pursuing the full 
course. During his college vacations he 
taught in public and select schools, and, for 
a year or more after his graduation, he was 
principal of the academy at Ashtabula, Ohio, 
and, for six months, principal of the Normal 
School at Farmington, in that State. He 
entered the Western Theological Seminary, 
Allegheny, Pa., in 1851, graduating in 
April, 1S54. He was licensed to preach by 
the Presbytery of Ohio, June 13, 1854, and, 
in July following, was called to the colleague 
pastorate of what is now known as the 
Market Square Presbyterian church, at Har- 
risburg, Pa., as an associate with the Rev. 
William R. DeWitt, D. D. He began his 
ministration in October, 1854, and was 
ordained and installed on the 21st of Jan- 
uar}', 1855, by the Presbystery of Harris- 
burg. After the withdrawal of the Rev. Dr. 
DeWitt, in 1864, and his decease, in 1867, 
he continued in sole charge of the church 
until his resignation, in 1884. He was 
moderator of the Synod of Pennsvlvania 
(N. S.), in 1861 ; stated clerk of the" Synod 
of Harrisburg, 1870-82, and stated clerk of the 
Synod of Pennsylvania, 1882-1883, when he 
resigned, and also his thirty years' pastorate of • 
the Market Square church, Harrisburg, to 
accept the professorship of sacred rhetoric, 
church government, and pastoral theology, 
in the Western Theological Seminary, at 
Alleghen}', into which office he was inducted 
April 16, 1884. He was a director of the 
seminary from 1874 to 1884, and was a 
trustee of Princeton College from 1S75 to 
1885. Resides in Allegheny City. Rev. 
Dr. Robinson married, in 1856, Mary Wolf 
Buehler, daughter of Henry Buehler and 
Anna Margaretta, only daughter of Governor 
Wolf, of Pennsvlvania. 



Robinsox, Thomas Hastings, son of Will- 
iam Andrew Robinson and his w T ife Nancy 
Cochran, was born January 30, 1S28, in 
North-East township. Erie county, Pa. He 
entered Oberlin College, Lorain county, 



Woeley, Rev. Daniel, A. M., was born 
in Harrisburg, Pa., Februarv 28, 1S29, and 
died Sunday, April 29, 1SSS, at Canton. 
Stark county, Ohio. He was descended 
from Francis Worley, an intelligent English 
land surveyor, who in 1722 was one of the 
three persons sent across the Susquehanna 
by Sir William Keith, deputy governor of 
the province, to survey Springettsbury 
Manor. He first settled in Lancaster county, 
at the mouth of the Conestoga, subsequently 
disposing of this land, and purchased 750 
acres one mile northwest of York. His wife 



268 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



was Ruth Collins, a Quakeress of Chester 
county, and although he was a member 
of the Episcopal Church, he adopted her 
faith. His sons were Nathan, James, Jacob, 
Francis, Daniel and George. Daniel's son, 
Thomas, resided man}' years in Harrisburg, 
where he died. x Of his children, the subject 
of this sketch was the eldest. Daniel Worley 
received his early education in the public 
schools and academy in Harrisburg. En- 
tering Pennsylvania College at Gettysburg, 
he completed a classical course, graduating 
in 1850. Having the ministry in view, he 
repaired to Capitol University, Columbus, 
Ohio, where he began the study of theology. 
While doing so he accepted and filled the 
position of auditor two years, when he was 
prevailed upon to accept the position of pro- 
fessor of mathematics and natural sciences, 
which chair he occupied eleven years. In 
1852, having completed his theological 
studies, he was licensed, and in 1855 ordained 
a minister of the Lutheran Church. In 1863 
Mr. Worley resigned his professorship and 
took charge of an academy in Greensburg, 
Pa. The following year he was elected 
superintendent of the Canton, Ohio, public 
schools, and since that period has resided in 
Canton. In June, 1876, he retired from the 
superintendency and opened a private acad- 
emy in that city. In 1877 he represented 
Stark county in the Ohio- Legislature, dur- 
ing which term he was chairman of the com- 
mittee of public schools and on the codifica- 
tion of school laws. He was recognized in 
that legislative body as a strong advocate of 
measures for the education of the masses and 
for the development of the resources of his 
adopted State. He filled quite a number of 
local offices, was a justice of the peace, mem- 
ber of council, school board and board of 
water works trustees. At the time of his 
death he held the office of deputy auditor 
for Stark county and president of the Canton 
council. During Mr. Worley's residence in 
Columbus of nineyearshe edited theLutheran 
Standard, the organ of the Synod of the 
Lutheran Church. In his early life he fre- 
quently filled pulpits in various parts of the 
country, but several years since retired from 
all active ministerial work. Mr. Worley 
married, in 1852, Henrietta Smith, daughter 
of Professor William Smith, president of 
Capitol University and clergyman, of the 
Lutheran Church. His widow and one son 
survive him. 

It is proper that in giving the preceding 



record of one who has ceased from his life- 
work, that some reference be made of the 
characteristics of the very excellent Christian 
gentleman, who was a native of our city, 
and whose entire life reflected honor upon 
it. The writer recollects him well as a 
scholar in the old log church on Third street, 
below Chestnut, and of his prominence in all 
branches then taught in the then boys' 
high school of the South ward. Two of the 
teachers, who recognized the intellectual 
acquirements of Daniel Worley, yet live — 
one, Prof. L. H. Gause, of this city ; the other, 
Dr.. Samuel Nichols, of Bellows Falls, Ver- 
mont. He was at the head of all his classes, 
and so it was at the Pennsylvania College. 
He was not only a marvel in mathematics, 
but in other branches of study. Although 
a fluent speaker, an able debater, an ex- 
cellent sermonizer, Mr. Worley's forte was in 
teaching. He was a profound scholar, and 
shed light upon every subject he undertook 
to expound. In his adopted State he was 
greatly esteemed, and few men were more 
potent for good. As an educator he had 
few equals, and his influence in this field 
will be felt in the years to come. His life 
was a strong and useful one. 



McGovern, The Right Reverend 
Thomas, D. D., second bishop of Harris- 
burg, was born in the parish of Swanlibar, 
county Cavan, Ireland, A. D. 1832. His 
parents emigrated to Pennsylvania in 1833, 
and his father became a partner with his 
brother, John McGovern, of Lancaster, Pa., 
who came to America in 1813, served in the 
war against Great Britain, and after its con- 
clusion was engaged in contracting on canals 
and railroads. After the suspension of such 
improvements, consequent upon the collapse 
of the United States Bank, Edward McGov- 
ern purchased a large tract of land in Albany 
township, Bradford county, Pa., and moved 
his family there in the fall of 1842. Cease- 
less toil, constant privations, and the hospi- 
tality of a howling wilderness were then 
some of the attractions of a pioneer life. 
He had some money saved from his ventures 
in contracting, but money is not bread, 
where there is no supply, and in the first 
stage of existence in the forest is of as little 
use as it would have been to Adam and 
Eve when they left the garden of Eden. 
A house of round logs and four acres of 
cleared land were the home and the hope of 
the new settlers. The balance of the land 










Vt' 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



271 



was the domain of deer, bears, panthers and 
wolves. The maternal genius of the native 
forest extends with royal magnificence un- 
stinted hospitality to its sovereign , but, if he 
wishes to levy contributions on his subject, 
he must subdue the turbulent members of 
his empire. Every member of the family was 
from necessity a toiler. Little do the young of 
this generation realize the hardships of pio- 
neer life, even in their native county ; and 
the prosperous of this day hardly ever ac- 
knowledge the deep debt of gratitude they 
owe to such heroic and unheralded man- 
hood. 

The family consisted of John, Patrick, 
Bridget, Thomas, Bernard, Francis and 
Annie, five of whom still survive, Bridget 
and Francis having passed away, the latter 
in childhood. John and Patrick received a 
primary education in an academy in Leb- 
anon, Pa., Patrick subsequently spending a 
few terms in an academy at Catawissa, Colum- 
bia county, Pa. Bridget was educated in a 
convent school, at Pottsville, Pa. These 
facts are given in order to explain how the 
younger members of the family had anv 
means of learning the most rudimentary 
principles of education in the wild woods. 
In the long winter evenings, when the mon- 
arch pines were bending and moaning in 
the storm, and the wood-chopper's day of toil 
was over, the little school gathered around 
the open hearth, as large as a lime-kiln, and 
in the light of the big log fire, peered into 
learning's shallow fountains, spelling, read- 
ing, reciting, writing and figuring, till droop- 
ing eyelids told that school was out. Then 
followed night prayers, and the beads were 
told, the father leading and the whole family 
responding, then all went to rest, to renew 
their strength for the toils of the coming day. 
The education thus acquired was necessarily 
limited. Yet the love they bore to learning 
was not diminished. The system was prim- 
itive, and made the work the more laborious. 
Books were few and in consequence more 
thoroughly mastered. The parents did not 
occupy professor's chairs but the}' were the 
perfects of discipline, and the motive powers 
of the little university. As time rolled on, 
the professional schoolmaster appeared upon 
the stage. His confidence in himself and 
assurance in his qualifications where none 
were able to question his claim to superiority, 
were usualty of no mean proportions. Look- 
ing back from this day, there was nothing 
small about him except his salary and learn- 



ing. His descriptions of the large towns he 
had seen, the great academies in which he 
had studied, and the wonders of science that 
were taught therein were listened to with 
astonishment. He was paid bj r subscription, 
and boarded around among the subscribers. 
This arrangement was regarded as an honor 
by the parents, and a pleasure by the scholars. 
It secured for the latter special favors during 
that week from the teacher, and the love 
their parents bore the learned one secured 
for them during that time a more elaborate 
bill of fare than usual. 

The school term rarely lasted more than 
three months in the year. In this primitive 
state of societ}', there were no amusements 
or distractions imported ready made from 
without. Other diversions of a more useful 
character, such as singing schools, debating 
societies, spelling schools, etc., took their 
place. 

Thomas McGovern was not as quick and 
bright in his studies as his brothers and 
sisters. He developed veiy slowly. This 
may have been owing to the defective sys- 
tem, which then consisted too much in dry 
rules and formularies. He looked upon these 
as exceedingly arbitrary, and would not sub- 
mit to them without restraint till he saw the 
reasons why they claimed his submission. 
He was not, however, skeptical in the com- 
mon sense of the term ; on the contrary, he 
had a great veneration and confidence in 
men who were able to write books. He was 
particularly fond of physics, popularly called 
natural philosophy ; and the problems in 
the department thereof denominated me- 
chanics afforded an extensive field for the 
exercise of a mind like his, which was 
naturally rigid and logical rather than dis- 
cursive and imaginative in its conclusions. 
He was passionately fond of machinery, and 
any hours he could steal from other em- 
ployments were devoted to this pleasant 
and favorite study. He was never regarded 
as a speedy messenger to go to the mill for 
grist, for the pleasure he enjoyed in examin- 
ing the machinery was sure to extend his 
stay long beyond the appointed time for his 
return. 

Theoretical knowledge will not long re- 
main at rest within the lines of its own pro- 
vince, but frets and chafes for freedom of 
action in the domain of practical life. This 
was particularly true in his case. He quickly 
learned to use the tools of (he artisan, and 
his success in repairing, making and invent- 



272 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ing such instruments as were needed in that 
primitive state of society soon acquired for 
him the title of a genius. When enough of 
the forest was cleared away to make a farm, 
and a house and other buildings erected to 
constitute a home, he was sent to St. Joseph's 
College, Susquehanna county, Pa., where he 
pursued his studies for two years. In Sep- 
tember, 1855, he went to Mt. St. Mary's 
College, Emmitsburg, Md., and after con- 
tinuing his studies there for four years, grad- 
uated at the commencement of 1859 with 
the degree of B. A. Among his classmates 
were young men of a high order of talent, 
particularly M. A. Corrigan, the present 
Most Rev. Archbishop of New York. 

In 1861, Thomas McGovern received the 
degree of A. M. He made a portion of his 
theological studies at Mt. St. Mary's Semi- 
nary, after he had graduated from the col- 
lege. His first rector then in the seminary 
is now the Most Rev. William Henry Elder, 
D. D., Archbishop of Cincinnati, a man of 
holy life, and a model of saintly virtues. 
Bishop McGovern always regarded Mt. St. 
Mary's as his alma mater, not onty because 
she honored him with her collegiate diplomas, 
but because she also called him to import- 
ant offices of trust during his sojourn in the 
college. " The Old Mountain," as the col- 
lege is familiarly called by the students, re- 
sides in the sanctuary of his dearest recol- 
lections. He concluded his theological 
course in the seminary of St. Charles Bor- 
romeo, Eighteenth and Race streets, Phila- 
delphia, since removed to the large and im- 
posing buildings at Overbrook Station. 

He was ordained priest December 27, 1861, 
by the Rt. Rev. James F. Wood, D. D., 
afterwards Archbishop of Philadelphia. He 
was assigned to the charge of Pottstown and 
Douglas ville after his ordination, and was 
subsequentl}' called as assistant in St. 
Michael's church, Second and Master streets, 
Philadelphia, and later to St. Philip's church, 
Second and Queen streets, in the same city. 

In June, 1864, Father McGovern was sent 
to Bellefonte, Centre county, Pa., to at- 
tend the station attached to it. His mission 
embraced Centre, Juniata and Mifflin coun- 
ties. He labored in this mission for six 
years; built a new church in Bellefonte, or- 
ganized sodalities, beneficial and temperance 
societies to arouse the zeal and fervor of 
Catholic piety. In 186S the Diocese of 
Harrisburg was organized by the Holy See, 
and on July 12, the Rt. Rev. F. Shana- 



han, D. D., was consecrated its first bishop. 
The Rev. Thomas McGovern's spiritual al- 
legiance was made to him. He remained in 
Bellefonte until December, 1870, when he 
was appointed to St. Patrick's church, at 
York, York county, Pa. Here his energy 
and zeal again found a large field of labor. 
In July, 1873, he was transferred to Dan- 
ville, Montour county, Pa. This had been 
a large and flourishing parish while iron 
rails carried the commerce of the country. 
He at once set to work to make improve- 
ments such as the growing demands of re- 
ligion required, but the financial crisis of 
that year frustrated many of his fondest 
hopes. Yet he struggled faithfully during 
the long years of depression in that town, 
and if he did not accomplish all his soul 
craved, he left after him monuments that 
will make his memory enduring. To recre- 
ate his body and mind, he made a very ex- 
tensive tour through Europe, Africa and 
Asia, in 1881-2. He traveled over twenty- 
three thousand miles, made the tour of Pal- 
estine and Syria on horseback, and lodged 
under tents for thirty-eight nights. 

Rt. Rev. J. F. Shanahan, D. D., passed 
away September 24, 1886. Rev. Thomas 
McGovern was appointed his successor by 
Pope Leo XIII., January 15, 1888, and he 
was consecrated in the pro-cathedral, in 
Harrisburg, March 11, 1888, by the Rt. Rev. 
William O'Hara, D. D., of Scranton, Pa., as- 
sisted by Rt. Rev. Richard Gilmour, D. D., 
of Cleveland, Ohio, and Rt. Rev. John A. 
Watterson, of Columbus, Ohio. Other emi- 
nent prelates and clergymen also honored 
the occasion by their presence. Bishop Mc- 
Govern is a gentleman of wide and generous 
impulses. In religion he aims to be chari- 
table, like his Divine Master. He is a Cath- 
olic from deep convictions, and holds him- 
self in honor bound to defend them. The 
following character is given him by D. H. 
Brower, Esq., in his history of Danville : 

"Rev. Thomas McGovern is a man of 
marked ability, energy and executive power. 
As a controversialist he is a dangerous op- 
ponent, and seems to be armed at every 
point to battle for the church and defend 
the faith he professes. Yet he is liberal and 
generous, courteous and pleasant to all, and 
holds an honorable place in the community 
at large." 

During the year 1895 he made a visit to 
the Holy See, at Rome, and on his return to 
Harrisburg, was accorded a hearty reception 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



273 



by his parishioners, which showed their love 
aud respect for their bishop and the high 
esteem in which he was held by them. 

Sangree, Rev. Milton H., pastor of 
Fourth Reformed church, Harrisburg, Pa., 
parsonage 1508 Market street, was born in 
Washington county, Md., November 7, 1832, 
son of Abraham B. and Margaret (Tritle) 
Sangree. His grandparents on both sides came 
from Switzerland, and are supposed to have 
been descendants of French Protestant refu- 
gees. His grandfather, Michael Sangree, was 
married about 1790, in York county, Pa,, to 
Miss Elizabeth Burkholder; they had nine 
children: Jacob, John, Christian, Abraham 
B., Joseph, Benjamin, Esther, Jane and 
Elizabeth. Abraham B. Sangree, father of 
Rev. M. H. Sangree, was born in York 
county, Pa., February 15, 1799. He was a 
miller, and continued in this occupation 
during the greater part of his life; but a few 
years before his death he bought a farm in 
Huntingdon county, Pa,, which is still called 
the " Sangree Farm," and which he culti- 
vated until his death, March 16, 1868. He 
was married in 1830, at Smithburg, Md., to 
Maria Margaret, daughter of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Huyett) Tritle, who was born in 
Washington county, Md., November 15, 1808. 
Their children were: Rev. Milton H., Arietta, 
wife of William Smith, a veteran soldier, 
deceased, Amanda J., Melinda, wife of Dr. 
William H. Aller, of New York, deceased, 
Luther, enlisted in company C, Fifty-third 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
killed at the battle of Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 13, 1862. The life of the father was 
shortened by grief for the death of this son. 
He died March 16, 1868, aged seventy years. 
He was an elder in the Reformed church at 
McConnellstown, Pa. 

Milton H. Sangree attended the public 
schools of Huntingdon county, from which 
he entered Tuscarora Academy for a short 
time. He then became a teacher in the 
public schools of Huntingdon county, and 
continued in this service through eleven 
years, during which time he also traveled 
as far west as Topeka, Kan., and resided in 
Missouri for a short time. After his return 
from the West, Mr. Sangree enlisted, in Feb- 
ruary, 1865, in company K, Seventy-eighth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
promoted to be second lieutenant and served 
in Tennessee, and was discharged in Sep- 
tember, 1865. He did not take part in 



any battle, but was detailed for post duty 
at Nashville, Tenn. He was afterwards 
superintendent of oil interests in Venango 
county, Pa., for two years. Esteeming it a 
duty and a privilege to become a min- 
ister of the gospel, Mr. Sangree pursued a 
thorough course of study in the Theological 
Seminary at Mercersburg for three years. 
This course was completed in 1871, when he 
was ordained to the office of the holy min- 
istry. He was financial agent of Mercer 
College one year and was then called to be 
pastor of the Reformed church at Bloody 
Run, now Everett, Pa., which was a mis- 
sionary field of large extent; here he re- 
mained for seven years, and accomplished 
valuable results in gathering the people and 
organizing the work. His next charge was 
the Water Street church, Pluntingdon, Pa. 
It was undertaken in 1879, held successfully 
for almost five years, and relinquished for 
that of Arendtville, Adams county, Pa„ in 
1884. In 1889 Rev. Mr. Sangree came to 
Steelton, Dauphin county, where he found a 
wide and important field for mission work, 
and where he was successful in building up 
a large and flourishing congregation and 
erecting a beautiful church. After four and 
a-half years of service there he was sent by 
the board of home missions of the Reformed 
Church to East Harrisburg, to establish the 
Fourth Reformed church, of Harrisburg, 
which is his present charge. In all places 
where he has labored Mr. Sangree has been 
devoted, painstaking and successful. Mr. 
Sangree was married, October 6, 1856, at 
Three Springs, Huntingdon county, Pa., to 
Miss Jane E., daughter of George and Re- 
becca (Hubbell) Hudson. Their children 
are: Rev. Henry H., pastor of the Reformed 
church at Steelton, married Miss Helen 
Ploke, of Hanover, Pa.; Francis N., wife of 
Dr. Elmer C. Fahrney ; Ernest B., M. D., 
late of Philadelphia, well known as a phy- 
sician and scientist, having been pathologist 
in the Philadelphia hospital, assistant pro- 
fessor of pathology in the Medico-Chirurgical 
College, adjunct professor of pathology in the 
Philadelphia Polyclinic, and member of the 
Academy of Natural Sciences: was elected 
in the spring of 1896 to the chair of pa- 
thology and bacteriology in the Vanderbilt 
University, Nashville, Tenn., by unanimous 
vote of the board of trustees : Margaret T. 
resides at home, is a teacher of music ; 
Thomas C, also a physician, now in practice 
in New York, and, until recently, surgeon in 



274 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the employ of the Red Star line, between 
New York and Antwerp; Hope M., wife of 
Walter Kauffman, Steelton, Pa.; Allen L., 
graduate of Franklin and Marshall College, 
resides in New York, is on the staff of the 
New York Sun, and George, living at home. 
Mrs. Sangree, wife of Rev. M. H. Sangree, 
was born at Three Springs, Huntingdon 
county, Pa., in 1833. Her father's ancestors 
were from England on his father's side, and 
Ireland on his mother's side. He was a 
farmer, as well as the owner of a large mill. 
He was married, in 1823, to Miss Rebecca 
Hubbell. of the same nativity as himself. 
He had eight children, of whom five are 
living. Mr. Hudson died in 1856, aged 
sixty years ; Mrs. Hudson died in 1881, aged 
eighty years. 

Sijionton, Rev. Ashbel Green, youngest 
son of Dr. William and Martha (Snodgrass) 
Simonton, was born January 20, 1833. His 
classical education began in the Harrisburg 
Academy, under the tuition of Rev. Mahlon 
Long. After two years' preparatory study 
he entered the College of New Jersey, from 
which he graduated in 1852, his scholarship 
and acquirements being of the first rank. 
In the autumn of the same year he went to the 
South with his brother James and took 
charge of an academy for boys at Stark ville, 
Miss., where he taught with much success 
for eighteen months. In July, 1854, he re- 
turned to Harrisburg and entered upon the 
study of law. In the spring ot 1855 he 
decided upon a theological course, and for 
this purpose prepared himself for entering 
the theological seminaiy at Princeton, which 
he did in September of that year. He was 
licensed to preach by the Carlisle Presbytery, 
which met at Greencastle on the 14th of 
April, 1858. He had decided upon a mis- 
sionary life, and after consultation and appli- 
cation to the Presbyterian Board of Foreign 
Missions was ordered to Brazil. He was 
ordained by the Presbytery of Carlisle, at 
Harrisburg, April 14, 1859, and on June 19, 
following, he sailed from Baltimore in the 
merchant ship " Banshee " for Rio Janeiro. 
He arrived at the latter place August 12, 
and at once entered upon his field of labor. 
In November, 1864, he took the lead in the 
establishment of the Impresna Evangelica, a 
semi-monthly newspaper for the dissemi- 
nation of religious information among the 
people of Brazil. Educated Brazilians 
acknowledged their surprise at the elegance 



and force with which he wrote in their 
native language and his leading articles in 
the Impresna were characterized by great 
ability, clearness and comprehension of the 
subjects treated. In the spring of 1862 he 
returned to the United States and married 
Helen Murdock, daughter of William Mur- 
dock, of Baltimore, Md., March 19, 1863, and 
sailed for Brazil May 23, 1863, reaching the 
harbor of Rio, July 16. His wife died 
after a short illness, July 28, 1864, which to 
a missionary in a foreign land was an incal- 
culable loss. But there was a duty to per- 
form and he labored zealously for the Master. 
Toward the close of March, 1865, he made 
a missionary tour into the Province of Sao 
Paulo, returning to his post in Rio early in 
May. The news of Lee's surrender, the 
suppression of the great Rebellion and the 
assassination of President Lincoln reached 
that city in quick succession. When there 
was no longer any doubt that the last-men- 
tioned event had occurred, he was requested 
to preach a sermon to the American residents 
on the occasion, which was delivered at a 
special service, May 21, 1865, to the largest 
assembly of his countrymen ever convened 
at Rio. Near the close of 1865 the Presby- 
tery of Rio Janeiro was organized at Sao 
Paulo, that being the mission station of his 
brother-in-law, A. L. Blackford. It was soon 
perceived that his overtaxed energies had 
begun to give way under the gradual ap- 
proaches of the disease which forever ended 
his earthly activities. Unable to continue 
his labors, he left Rio for the home of his 
sister, at Sao Paulo, the last week of Novem- 
ber, 1867, where after a brief illness, he died 
December 9, following. He was buried on the 
same day from the little church of Sao Paulo, 
two Englishmen and two Americans officiat- 
ing as pall-bearers, addresses being made in 
Portugese by Rev. Mr. Blackford and Rev. 
Emanuel Pires, singing the hymn, "We 
Speak of the Land ever Blest." The Rev. 
Mr. Simonton possessed a clear, penetrating 
intellect, a sound and discriminating judg- 
ment. His manner in public was quiet, un- 
affected, dignified and self-possessed. In 
relations of private life he was frank, genial, 
social, affectionate and noble-hearted. 



Shanahan, Jeremiah Francis, D. D., 
first bishop of Harrisburg, Pa., was born at 
Silver Lake, Susquehanna county, Pa., July 
13, 1834, son of John and Margaret (Dono 
van) Shanahan. both natives of Cork count y 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



275 



Ireland. His early Catholic education and 
training were scrupulously attended to by 
his pious parents, who also provided for him 
a liberal course in the best schools. For 
three years he attended an ordinary school at 
Silver Lake, from which he went to St. Jos- 
eph's Academy, near Biughampton, N. Y., 
and was graduated therefrom with honor at 
eighteen years of age. His classical, philo- 
sophical and theological courses were com- 
pleted at the Theological Seminary of St. 
Charles Borromeo, at Philadelphia. His or- 
dination to the priesthood, by Bishop Neu- 
mann, took place July 3, 1859, after which 
he was appointed by the bishop, rector of 
the new Preparatory Seminary at Glen Rid- 
dle, Deleware county, Pa., and for nineyears 
discharged the duties of the place with rare 
ability and gratifying success. 

When the new diocese of Harrisburg was 
constituted in 1868, Father Shanahan was 
appointed its bishop. His consecration took 
place July 12, 1868; at the cathedral in 
Philadelphia. His installation took place 
on September 20, of the same year, at St. 
Patrick's, in Harrisburg, which then became 
the pro-cathedral. Here abundant and dif- 
ficult labors awaited the young bishop. His 
flock was sparsely scattered through eigh- 
teen counties, and were only partly supplied 
with under shepherds, each priest having a 
triple charge. All church activities were to 
be organized and set in motion. The good 
bishop was equal to the demands of the sit- 
uation, and the wonderful enlargement and 
prosperity of the diocese demonstrated his 
ability, faithfulness and consecration. 

But the physical strength of Bishop Shan- 
ahan proved inadequate to the strain of 
labor so constant and consuming, and his 
health gave way. He lived and labored 
long enough to organize the diocese, to plant 
schools and build churches, to win the ad- 
miration and affection of his people, and to 
gain the confidence and esteem of the entire 
community. He was called to his rest and 
reward September 24, 1886; and a hand- 
some and enduring monument, erected by 
his grateful and loving parishioners, marks 
his resting place in the beautiful grounds of 
St. Patrick's pro-cathedrai. 

This eminent servant of God has a worthy 
successor in the bishoprick in the person of 
Archbishop Thomas McGovern, who found 
a happy and prosperous charge, and who is 
successfully continuing and extending the 
work so auspiciously begun by the first bishop. 



Gilbert, Rev. David McConaghy, D. D., 
pastor of the Zion Evangelical Lutheran 
church, Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Gettys- 
burg, Pa., February 4, 1836. He is a son of 
the late Dr. David and Jane E. (Brown) 
Gilbert. His father, David Gilbert, M. D., 
was born near Gettysburg, July 27, 1803; 
was an eminent physician and surgeon ; 
practiced in Gettysburg until 1852 ; after- 
wards resided in Philadelphia, and was for 
some years a professor in the medical de- 
partment of Pennsylvania College in that 
city; he died July 28, 1868. Mrs. Dr. 
Gilbert died February 22, 1893, aged eighty- 
six. Four of their family of eight children 
are still living : Harriet B., wife of John M. 
Adler, M. D., of Philadelphia; Boyd Anna, 
widow of the late Andrew Ross Potts, of 
Washington, D. C. ; David McC, and Miss 
Julia K. Their only other son was Dr. 
William Kent Gilbert, eldest of the family, 
at the time of his death coroner of Phila- 
delphia. Two of the children died in in- 
fancy ; the remaining one was Hannah M., 
wife of Jackson McAbee, of Philadelphia. 

Rev. David McC. Gilbert pursued his 
early studies in the preparatory department 
of Pennsylvania College, at Gettysburg; he 
was graduated from the college in 1S57, and 
from the theological seminary, of the same 
place, in 1859. In October, 1859, he was 
licensed to preach the gospel and administer 
the sacraments by the West Pennsylvania 
Synod. In the fall of 1860 he was ordained 
by the Synod of Virginia as a minister of 
the Evangelical Lutheran Church. In De- 
cember, 1859, he was called to the pastorate 
of the Central Evangelical Lutheran church 
of Staunton, Va., where he labored with 
fidelity and success until May, 1863. June 
1, 1863, to July 1, 1871, he was pastor of 
what is now known as the Church of Ascen- 
sion, at Savannah, Ga. He then returned 
to his former pastorate at Staunton, and re- 
mained until April 1, 1873. He then took 
charge of a parish at Winchester, Va., and 
labored there until December, 1887, when he 
was called to his present pastorate ; he began 
his labors here on the first Sunday in De- 
cember, 1887. 

Rev. Dr. Gilbert was married, in New Or- 
leans, October 29, 1866, to Miss Mary 
Rutledge, daughter of the late John G. and 
Catherine Fallingatt, of Savannah, Ga. 
Their children are: John G., attornev-at- 
law, Harrisburg, Pa., William Kent, Fred- 
erick M., Catherine, David McC, Jr., Marion 



276 



BIO GRA PHICA L EN CYCL OPEDIA 



Rutledge, Henry D., and Jane. Dr. Gilbert 
is at present president of the Evangelical 
Lutheran Synod of East Pennsylvania. 



Steckley, Rev. Matthew, was born in 
German}', September 15, 1836, son of the 
late Ausulmes and Juliama (Fresse) Steckley. 
The parents were both natives of Germany 
and died in their native land. The father 
was a cabinet maker by trade, and was three 
times married. Matthew had but one brother. 
He received his education in Germany, hav- 
ing attended school until he was fourteen 
years of age. He came with some of. his 
friends to this country, when he was eigh- 
teen years of age, and when nineteen years 
old began an apprenticeship at the trade of 
shoemaker with a man by the name of 
Bickel, on Walnut street in Harrisburg. 
After completing his apprenticeship he 
worked at his trade as a journeyman for Mr. 
Desh on Market street, for many years. He 
subsequently bought the property of Will- 
iam Verbeke, No. 404 Broad street, now 
Verbeke street, where he was engaged in 
business for himself until the war broke 
out. He enlisted in August, 1864, for ten 
months, in the Two Hundred and First reg- 
iment, Pennsylvania volunteers, in com- 
pany A, and having served his full time 
was discharged June 21, 1865. After his re- 
turn from the army he resumed the shoe 
business, in which he continued up to the 
time of his death, July 14, 1892, at the age 
of fifty-five years. His death was caused bv 
swallowing a fragment of bone, which caused 
him four years of suffering — and which was 
finally removed after treatment at the hos- 
pital but not in time to save his life. Mr. 
Steckley was a regularly ordained minister 
of the United Evangelical Church, and 
served in the sacred office in Harrisburg 
for thirty-six years, where he was highly 
honored as one of the leaders of God's 
people. He had also been chaplain at the 
Almshouse for about twenty years. He 
served as school director in the city of Har- 
risburg for one term of three years. In his 
political veins he was an ardent Republican. 
He was a member of the Golden Eagles for 
four years, and was chaplain of his lodge. 
Mr. Steckley was married, February 20, 
1858, to Miss Elizabeth Baker, daughter of 
George and Elizabeth (Sheets) Baker, to 
whom were born nine children : Emma, wife 
of Edwin Zeagler; Edwin; Maggie, wife of 
John Lappley ; Minnie, wife of William 



Brummel ; Annie, wife of Charles Storer ; Ber- 
tha, wife of Erwin Hershey ; William,Warren 
and Paul. The parents of Mrs. Steckley were 
both natives of Dauphin county, and both died 
in the county. They had one child, Eliza- 
beth, Mrs. Steckley. The grandparents were 
also natives of Dauphin county. Her grand- 
father was for many years engaged in the 
hat business. Both grandparents died in 
Dauphin county. William Steckley, son of 
Rev. Matthew Steckley, was born September 
3, 1870, and was educated in the public 
schools. He is at present managing his 
father's business and is recognized as one of 
the leading young business men of the city. 

' Pfuhl, Rev. John George, pastor of St. 
Michael's German Lutheran church, of Har- 
risburg, Pa., was born in Treffurt, Province 
of Saxony, Kingdom of Prussia, March 30, 
1838. He is a son of the late Christian 
Pfuhl and his wife Charlotte Von Keudel. 
The parents of Pastor Pfuhl were both na- 
tives of Prussia. They were born in Tref- 
furt, and lived there until 1866, when they 
removed to the Province of West Prussia, 
settling near the town of Culmsee, where 
the father died October 18, 1881, and the 
mother October 28, 1880. They had eight 
children, five of whom are living : Chris- 
tiana, widow of the late Wilhelm Boden- 
stein ; Dorothea, wife of Julius Fiedler; 
Caroline, wife of Hilmer Achilles; Augusta, 
widow of the late Theodore Rausch ; and 
John George. The last-named and his 
nephew, Charles Bodenstein, of Philadel- 
phia, are the only members of the family 
residing in America. 

John George Pfuhl lived with his parents 
until he reached the age of fourteen, receiv- 
ing his primary education in the common 
schools of his native town. He also had 
instruction in Latin, Greek and French 
under a private tutor. In 1852 he was sent 
to a neighboring village pastor, who fully 
instructed him in the classics. With this 
preparation, he was sent to the college at 
Muehlhausen, where he spent three years. 
He afterwards entered the college at Halle, 
and was graduated from this institution in 
1859. In 1860 he left his native land for 
America. Soon after his arrival in -this 
country, he entered the Theological Semi- 
nary of Gettysburg, where he studied for 
two years. In 1862 he was licensed to 
preach the gospel and administer the sacra- 
ments in the pastorate of Steuben ville, Ohio. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



277 



In May, 1864, he was ordained a minister of 
the German Lutheran Church, and installed 
as pastor at Steubenville by the Pittsburg 
Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. 
He was pastor of Zion Lutheran church in 
that city for fourteen years. In 1876 he 
was elected to the pastorate of St. Michael's 
Lutheran church in Harrisburg. For twenty 
years he has held this important pastorate, 
and has faithfully discharged its sacred and 
arduous duties. 

His first wife was Miss Miranda, daughter 
of John and Regina (Bauer) Miller, of 
Bridgewater, Beaver county, Pa. Their 
marriage took place May 10, 1864. They 
had one son, Charles Augustus, now residing 
in Pittsburgh. Mrs. Pfuhl died at Steuben- 
ville, Ohio, January 22, 1866. In his second 
marriage, which occurred at Baden, Beaver 
county, September 22, 1868, he was united 
to Sophia Marchand, a daughter of Fred- 
erick and Caroline (Ehrman) Marchand, 
born in Offenbach, near Frankfort-on-the- 
Main. They have had seven children ; four 
died in infancy, Otto," George, Johanna aud 
Louisa. Their living children are Sophie 
Augusta, born August 8, 1875; Marie Dor- 
othy, July 7, 1878; and Paul Wilhelm, 
July 27, 1882. 

Pastor Pfuhl is a member of the Evangeli- 
cal Lutheran Ministerium of Pennsylvania, 
the oldest Lutheran Synod in the United 
States. 



Forney, Rev. Christian Henry, D. D., 
son of Christian T. Forney (1806-1860) and 
Barbara Strohm, was born October 17, 1839, 
in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa. He was educated in the com- 
mon schools, St. Thomas Institute, Miles- 
burg Normal School and Oberlin College, 
where he completed the course preparatory 
to the study of theology in 1860, and entered 
upon the ministry at Mount Ivy, Lancaster 
count}', Pa., in November of that year, where 
he remained until April, 1863. He also 
preached at Chambersburg, Franklin county, 
Pa., from April, 1863, to April, 1866; at 
Harrisburg, Fourth street, from April, 1866, 
to April, 1868; Lancaster city, from April, 
1868, to April, 1870, since which time he 
has been in charge of the editorial depart- 
ment of the church paper of his denomina- 
tion, preaching only on special occasions. 
He was chaplain of the House of Represen- 
tatives of Pennsylvania in 1868, and lias 
been twice speaker of the East Pennsyl- 



vania Eldership of the Church of God ; once 
speaker of the General Eldership; almost a 
continuous member of the standing commit- 
tee of the East Pennsylvania Eldership since 
1869 ; member of Board of Missions and 
Board of Incorporation of the East Pennsyl- 
vania Eldership; member of the Executive 
Board of the General Eldership; continuous 
member of Board of Education of the Gen- 
eral Eldership until elected on the Execu- 
tive Board ; a continuous member of the 
Board of Education of East Pennsylvania 
Eldership. In 1866 he was elected assistant 
editor of the Church Advocate, and upon the 
death of the editor, in 1869, became editor- 
in-chief, which position he still occupies. 
In June, 1881, Hillsdale College, Michigan, 
conferred upon him the degree of D. D. 



Stanford, Bishop W. M., was born in 
Rockland township, Venango count}', Pa., 
March 15, 1846. Being a farmer's son he 
was raised to hard work on the farm till he 
was twenty yearsof age, and got but from three 
to four months schooling in a year. When 
he was eighteen years of age he began teaching 
in the win ter season for but $23 a month , teach- 
ing every winter thereafter till his twenty- 
fifth year. He made his money in the winter 
by teaching, and spent it in the summer at- 
tending school, first at Greensburg Seminary, 
Summit county, Ohio, from the spring of 
1865 tothe fall of 1866, and then at Mount 
Union College, Stark county, Ohio, until the 
spring of 1871, when he graduated in the 
scientific and commercial courses. The 
wages of his first winter's teaching not being 
sufficient to venture away from home to 
school, he worked for about three months on 
a railroad, digging and shoveling, to secure 
further funds. Having to furnish all his 
own money, it took great frugality to get 
through the summer's schooling on the 
funds made by his winter's teaching. He 
did his own cooking and house work in 
order to make ends meet. Being ambitious 
in his studies, he nearly always stood at the 
head of his classes, and was a most formid- 
able antagonist to meet in debate. 

Nearly one year before his graduation, on 
August 2, 1870, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Rosa A. Weimer, of the southern 
part of Stark county, Ohio, and then, with 
his wife, taught a graded school of two de- 
partments the following winter in Osnaburg, 
Ohio, and with the money thus made fin- 
ished his collegiate course the next summer, 



278 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and came out free of all debt. In the spring 
of 1872 he entered the Pittsburg Conference 
of the Evangelical Association, and was sent 
for his first year in the ministry as a mis- 
sionary to Franklin, Venango county, Pa. 
Here he remained three years, having about 
sixty conversions a year as the fruits of his 
labors. His next two years were spent at 
Homeworth, Ohio, where, in connection with 
his pastorate, he pursued the study of Greek 
and German again in his alma mater. He 
next spent a most successful three years' 
pastorate in Pittsburgh, Pa.; thence for two 
years in Johnstown, Pa., and was then called 
to Cleveland, Ohio, as associate editor of the 
official English church organ, the Evangelical 
Messenger, his chief being Dr. H. B. Hartzler, 
afterwards one of Mr. D. L. Moody's co- 
workers in the great training schools at 
Northfield, Mass. He remained on this 
paper for over six years, during which time 
said paper attained the highest circulation 
it ever had, either before or since. In the 
memorable General Conference of 1887, in 
Buffalo, N. Y., which marked the beginning 
of a schism in said church, he, with his 
chief, being allied with the American spirited 
element of the church, as opposed to an 
ecclesiastical autocracy on the other side, 
and being at that time a little in the minor- 
ity, were of necessity defeated. The next 
spring he again took a pastorate in Canton, 
Ohio, under the direction of his old confer- 
ence. In about eighteen months he had 
gathered a harvest of over one hundred 
souls, when he was elected as editor and 
publisher of an independent church paper, 
known as the Evangelical, printed at Harris- 
burg, Pa., which paper he conducted most 
successfully during the stormy years of 1890 
and 1891, when, at the General Conference in 
Philadelphia, in the fall of 1891, he was 
elected to the Episcopacy, continuing until 
the special General Conference in the fall of 
1894, held in Naperville, 111., when he was 
re-elected to said office for a term of four 
years. This was the first General Conference 
of the American wing of the church, con- 
stituting about one-half of the whole of this 
country, and at which conference a new 
discipline was made and adopted, and a new 
name assumed, viz. : The United Evangel- 
ical Church. 

During the course of his pastoral and 
editorial life, Bishop Stanford served six 
years as the secretary of his conference, and 
was sent for seven years as a delegate to the 



General Board of Missions. He was also a 
member of the General Conference of 1883, 
1887, 1891 and 1894. When he once became 
convinced that a certain course was right, 
he never stopped to think of policy, but set 
his course without hesitation, leaving all 
results with God. And when he started out 
to do a thing he knew no such word as fail, 
and this is largely the secret of whatever 
success he has attained in life. 

Bishop Stanford was one of four chil- 
dren, two boys and two girls, the other three 
all being married and following agricultural 
pursuits in Northwestern Pennsylvania. His 
father, Abraham Stanford, was born in 1817, 
was an industrious farmer. of Scotch descent, 
and died in 1882. Plis mother was born of 
German parentage in 1826, and died in 
1893. His mother's maiden name was 
Domer, being one of a family of nine chil- 
dren, three girls and six boys. Four of the 
boys were preachers ; one, named Jacob, a 
member of the Church of God, attained to 
the assistant editorship of the official paper 
of his denomination, overworked himself, 
and died at the age of forty-one years. Two, 
named respectively George and John, were 
both leading men in the same church with 
Bishop Stanford, having both of them served 
for four consecutive terms of four years each 
as presiding elders, and having been mem- 
bers of every successive General Conference 
from 1875 to 1891. Abraham Domer, D. D., 
after graduating at Allegheny College, Mead- 
ville, early in his life, started out as a min- 
ister in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
attained also to the presiding eldership in 
his church, and thus forged to the front rank 
among his brethren. A little further out in 
relationship on his mother's side were many 
more preachers and men of prominence, one 
of whom, the Rev. Samuel Domer, D. D., 
having been for many years pastor of the 
leading Lutheran congregation of Washing- 
ton, D. C. Bishop Stanford comes of a long- 
lived race of people on both his father's and 
his mother's side, some of them back in the 
third generation living to the ripe ages of 
from ninety to one hundred years. 

Mrs. Rosa A. Stanford, wife of the bishop, 
maiden name Weimer, was born in the 
southern part of Stark county, Ohio, March 
3, 1845, of German parentage. Being a 
farmer's daughter, she, too, got but from three 
to four months', schooling in a year, when, 
in 1863, at the age of seventeen, she attended 
a term of school at Greensburg Seminary, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



279 



Summit county, Ohio, and in the following 
winter taught her first term. In 1864 she 
attended the spring and fall terms of Roanoke 
Academy, Huntington county, Ind., and 
in the winter of the same year taught the 
intermediate department of the same school. 
In the fall of 1865 she again attended at 
Greensburg, Ohio, and thereafter followed 
teaching until her marriage in the summer 
of 1870. She was one of a large family 
of children, several of whom attained to 
prominence in their specific vocations. 
Oliver Weimer, a brother, was a musician 
and vocalist, whose energy was greater than 
his body could bear, and so died at an early 
age, and Miss Katie Weimer, a younger 
sister, struggled with both health and other 
difficulties until she became a leading artist, 
and then died before she had time to reap 
the returns of her sacrifice and toil. Prof. 
Solomon Weimer, a younger brother, after a 
common school training, began his collegiate 
training at Mount Union College, Ohio, and 
finished it at Otterbein University, Wester- 
ville, Ohio. Afterwards, for some years, he 
taught in Navarre, Ohio, and then stepped 
up to one of the highest positions in the 
Central high schools of Cleveland, Ohio, 
where he is still a much esteemed and suc- 
cessful educator. 

To Bishop and Mrs. Stanford there were 
born six children, two sons and four daugh- 
ters. The eldest, Orpha Blanche Stanford, 
was born near Beach City, Ohio, April 26, 
1871. After receiving a good common school 
education, she afterwards made a specialt}' of 
art and music, until she became a teacher of 
both, and on the 22d of May, 1895, was 
united in marriage with Mr. Frank S. 
Becker, teller of the leading bank in Lebanon, 
Pa. Mr. Becker has also been president of 
the school board of Lebanon for a number 
of years. The next is Vincent W., of whom 
a sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. 
The next in age is Abraham LeRoy 
Stanford, who was horn in Homeworth, 
Ohio, November 27, 1876. Aside from a 
common school education, he attended sev- 
eral terms at Schuylkill Seminary, at Fred- 
ericksburg, Pa., where he showed marked 
proficiency in the line of mathematics. He 
afterwards went into training in Catasaqua, 
Pa., to become a machinist, in which work 
he shows marked adaptability. Being yet 
young in years, his life work is-not clearly 
chosen, but he bids fair to be able to hoe his 
own row. Next comes Zella Corine Stan- 



ford, born in Pittsburgh, Pa., June 20, 1878 ; 
then Laura Eva Stanford, born in Johns- 
town, Pa., October 2, 1881, and lastly Mina 
Grace Stanford, born in Cleveland, Ohio, 
September 8, 1887. Zella and Laura have 
already finished the ward schools, and are 
both now attending the high school of Har- 
risburg, and stand among the best in their 
classes. Little Grace is fast on the same 
track in her studies, has an ambition to be 
at the head of her classes, and bids fair to 
overtake her older sisters by and by. 

This family is also quite a musical family. 
Blanch uses the piano, Vincent the banjo, 
Roy the guitar and the mandolin, Zella the 
mandolin, Laura the piano, and Grace is an 
admirer of all. But of all the others, LeRoy 
seems to show the most natural adaptability 
for instrumental music. 



Kremer, Rev. Ellis N., was born in 
Cumberland county, Pa., October 27, 1846, 
son of Rev. A. H. and Rebecca (Keiffer) 
Kremer. Frederick Kremer, the paternal 
grandfather, was a cooper by trade, and 
later in life was engaged in farming. The 
maternal grandfather was also a farmer, and 
was an elder in the Reformed church for 
some years, which office he held at the time 
of his death. Rev. A. H. Kremer, the father, 
was born in November, 1811, and the mother 
was born at Little Washington, Lancaster 
county, Pa., in March, 1815. The father re- 
moved with his parents to York count\', 
where he received his education in the high 
school at York and in Mercersburg College, 
and he was graduated from the Theological 
Seminary at Mercersburg in 1839. His first 
pastorate was at Shippensburg, in which he 
served seven years. He was called to Car- 
lisle in 1846, and remained there until the 
spring of 1861. He was then called to the 
First church at Laucaster, Pa., where he 
served until the fall of 1877, when he was 
recalled to his old church at Carlisle, where 
he remained until his death in 1894. Mr. 
Kremer was also president of the board of 
trustees of the Theological Seminary for a 
number of years. He was married to Miss 
Rebecca Keiffer, by whom he had eight 
children, one of whom, Stephen K., died in 
the active ministry at Greencastle, Pa., in 
1876. The father died at the age of seventy- 
nine years; the mother is still living at the 
age of eighty-one years, and resides at Green- 
castle, Pa. 

Ellis N. attended the schools of Cumber- 



280 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



land county until he was thirteen years of 
age, and then took the preparatory and col- 
legiate course at Franklin and Marshall Col- 
lege, from which he was graduated in 1865. 
After his graduation he was clerk in the 
bookstore of John Shaeffer, at Lancaster city, 
for three years, and in the fall of 1868 en- 
tered the Theological Seminary at Mercers- 
burg, from which he was graduated in 1871. 
The same year he settled as pastor at Bed- 
ford, Pa., being licensed to preach in the 
spring, and ordained to the ministry No- 
vember 11 following. This charge was com- 
posed of three congregations: Bedford, St. 
Paul's and Pleasant Hill. In 1881 the 
charge was divided and Rev. Kremer re- 
mained pastor of the Bedford congregation, 
in which relation he continued for sixteen 
years. During his pastorate there was great 
growth and improvement, the parsonage 
and the new church edifice having been 
erected in that time. Rev. Kremer resigned 
this pastorate to enter the wider field of use- 
fulness in Harrisburg, which he has since 
occupied with the same success that has at- 
tended his labors in other fields. In recog- 
nition of his scholarly attainments and 
devoted labors, he was honored with the 
degree of Doctor of Divinity by his alma 
mater in 1895. Dr. Kremer was married, 
November 23, 1871, at Lancaster, Pa., to 
Miss Sallie E. Swan, daughter of H. B. and 
Frances (Toby) Swan, to whom have been 
born seven children, of whom five are living. 
Dr. Kremer is now secretary of the board of 
home missions of the Reformed Church. 



Baker, Rev. Leroy Franklin, rector of 
St. Paul's Protestant Episcopal church, Har- 
risburg, Pa., was born in Mount Pleasant, 
Wayne county, Pa., November 26, 1848. His 
father was a native of Orange county, N. Y., 
a descendant of one of the early settlers 
of Rhode Island. His mother was the 
daughter of Col. Harry Mumford, an 
officer in the militia, and a descendant 
of Thomas Mumford, who settled in 
Rhode Island, and married Sarah Sher- 
man, about the year 1650. From this 
family sprang Hannah Mumford, who be- 
came the mother of Bishop Seabury, the 
first bishop of the Anglican communion in 
America; Paul Mumford, successively chief 
justice and lieutenant governor of Rhode 
Island, and Augustus Mumford, adjutant, 
who was killed during the siege of Boston, 



Mass., by a cannon shot, August 29, 1775, 
being the first Rhode Island officer who fell 
in the war of the Revolution ; also many 
prominent citizens of Rhode Island and 
Connecticut. There is evidence that the 
Mumford family descended from Hugh de 
Montfort ; the line can be traced to Arnulph, 
bishop of Metz, who died A. D. 631. 

Mr. Baker was graduated from the Ithaca 
Academy, Ithaca, N. Y., June 25, 1869, and 
spent two years in Cornell University, being 
president of his class during the sophomore 
year. He spent two years in teaching in his 
native place, and three j 7 ears in study in the 
Divinity School, Philadelphia, Pa., gradu- 
ating therefrom June 21, 1876. He was or- 
dained to the diaconate, in Reading, Pa., 
June 11, 1875, by the Rt. Rev. M. A. De 
Wolfe Howe, bishop of Central Pennsyl- 
vania; and to the priesthood in Scranton, 
Pa., December 20, 1876, by the same bishop. 
Immediately after graduation from the Di- 
vinity School, Mr. Baker was sent to Great 
Bend, Susquehanna county, Pa., to take 
charge of Grace church in that place. He 
remained there three years, serving also St. 
Mark's church, New Milford, during the 
same time. He was called to St. Paul's 
church, Harrisburg, and took charge of that 
parish on July 13, 1879. From that time 
to the present writing (1896), he has re- 
mained in charge of St. Paul's parish. With 
a single exception he is the oldest resident 
minister in the city of Harrisburg, and with 
the same exception he is the oldest resident 
in the Archdeaconry of Harrisburg. He 
has been for several years examining chap- 
lain in the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania, 
and a member of the committee on canons. 
He wasadeput3 r to the General Convention in 
Baltimore in 1892, the convention that com- 
pleted the revision of the Book of Common 
Prayer; he was also deputy to the General 
Convention in Minneapolis in 1895, the con- 
vention that inaugurated the revision of the 
constitution and canons of the Protestant 
Episcopal Church. 

On June 4, 1877, he was married to Sarah 
E. Wortman, of Ithaca, N. Y. On her 
father's side Mrs. Baker is descended from 
German stock, having Hesse Cassel as its 
ancestral home. Some of her nearer paternal 
ancestors in this country are named among 
the Jerseym^n in the Revolution ; some 
were among the survivors of the Wyoming 
massacre. On her mother's side Mrs. Baker 
is a descendant of Dr. Comfort Starr, who 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



281 



was born in Ashford, England, and died in 
Boston, in 1659. Rev. and Mrs. Baker have 
one child, Anna May, born February 12, 
1882. 



Stine, Rev. Milton H., Ph. D., pastor of 
Christ's Lutheran church, Harrisburg, Pa., 
was born in York count}', Pa., September 4, 
1853, son of Adam and Barbara (Schoen- 
berger) Stine. 

Charles Stine, paternal grandfather of 
Rev. M. H. Stine, was a native of Wurtem- 
berg, German}', and came to this country 
early in the present century. He was a 
musician and a teacher of music. He had 
a family of six children. Adam Stine, 
father of Rev. Milton H, was born in Ger- 
man}', near Wittenberg, and came to this 
country when quite young. He learned the 
business of tailoring in New York City, and 
was engaged in that occupation until within 
a few years of his death, when he retired 
from active business. He was marriedDecem- 
ber 5, 1841 ; his wife Barbara, daughter of 
Henry Schoenberger, was also a native of 
Germany. Their children are: Rebecca, not 
married, resides at York, Pa.; Rev. M. H; 
Henrietta, died October 23, 1851, aged nine 
years ; Annie D., died October 24, 1857, aged 
two years. Mr. Stine and his family were 
members of the Lutheran Church. He died 
in York county, January 18, 1896, aged 
seventy-nine ; his wife died at the same 
place, June 13, 1890, aged seventy-seven. 

Milton H. Stine attended the public schools 
of York county until he was thirteen years 
of age, after which he was for three years a 
pupil in the York County Academy. He 
strongly desired a liberal education, in 
order to enter one of the learned professions, 
but having few resources to depend upon be- 
sides bis own efforts, was obliged to plan 
and work to obtain it. He took a winter 
school when he was sixteen, employing the 
summer months in helping with the farm 
work, and studying during his leisure hours. 
After three terms of teaching, with inter- 
vening periods of study, he was prepared to 
enter college. In 1873 he began a classical 
course at Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg, 
Pa., which be pursued for a short time, 
when, an opportunity to become a teacher 
in the academy being offered, he accepted, 
ami became professor where lie had formerly 
been a pupil, and for one year performed the 
duties of the position very creditably ; after 



which he re-entered college, and was gradu- 
eted in 1877. He subsequently took the 
regular course at the Theological Seminary 
at Gettysburg, which he completed in 1880, 
and in the same year was ordained to the 
ministry. 

Mr. Stine's first charge was the church at 
Maytown, Lancaster county, Pa., where he 
continued with good success for two and a 
half years, during which time he received a 
call to the pastorate of a large Methodist 
congregation in New England, which he de- 
clined. On May 1, 1883, he began his work 
as pastor of the Seventh Street church, 
Lebanon, Pa., in which his marked ability 
as preacher and pastor was manifest in the 
enlargement and general prosperity of the 
church. During the nine years of his con- 
nection with this congregation, the mem- 
bership was greatly increased, a new church 
edifice with a seating capacity of seven hun- 
dred was erected, and a commodious and 
beautiful parsonage was built. While in 
this pastorate, Rev. Mr. Stine made two trips 
to foreign countries; during the first of 
which he spent three months in visiting 
Europe, Egypt and Palestine, and seeing 
during the second the principal places of 
interest in England. He is the author of 
two interesting books, one published in 1888, 
entitled " Studies on the Religious Problems 
of Our Country," and the second, published 
in 1890, entitled "A Winter Jaunt Through 
Historic Lands;" both of which disclose a 
high degree of literary talent. He is also 
a correspondent of several periodicals, for 
which his articles find ready acceptance. 

In 1892 Rev. Mr. Stine took charge of the 
First English Lutheran church, at Los An- 
geles, Cal., but at the end of three years, his 
pastorate in that beautiful city was termin- 
ated by the declining health of his father, 
which necessitated his return to the East. In 
1895 he was called to his present pastorate, 
that of Christ Lutheran church, Harrisburg, 
at Thirteenth street and Thompson avenue, 
with parsonage at 1311 Deny street. Here 
he finds a promising field for the exercise of 
his best powers, and here abundant fruits 
begin to appear. In 1896 formal recognition 
of the scholarship and literary attainments 
of Mr. Stine was made by the bestowment 
upon him of the honorary degree of Doctor 
of Philosophy. 

Rev. Dr. Stine was married, at Mecbanics- 
burg, Pa., June 2(1. 1880,to Miss Mary. daugh- 
ter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Shaeffer) Altlaud 



282 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



They have two sons; Charles, born October 
18, 1882, and Walter, born March 18, 1888. 

Dr. Stine is a member of the Junior Order 
of United American Mechanics and of the 
Knights of Malta. 

Mrs. Stine, wife of Rev. Dr. Stine, was 
born December 15, I860. Her father, Daniel 
Altland, was born August 19, 1834. In his 
younger days he taught school, but the 
greater part of his business life was spent in 
mercantile pursuits. He was married, in 
July, 1856, to Elizabeth, daughter of George 
and Elizabeth Shaeffer. Besides Mary (Mrs. 
Stine) they had two sons, Alfred D. and F. 
M., both in mercantile pursuits, in Dillsburg, 
York county, Pa. 

Rev. Daniel Altland, grandfather of Mrs. 
Stine, was a native of York county, and 
learned the trade of a carpenter. He lived 
where his ancestors had lived for 165 years. 
Some of the Altlands were soldiers in the 
Revolutionary war. 



Stewart, Rev. George B., D. D., pastor 
of the Market Square Presbyterian church, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born at Columbus, 
Ohio, February 28, 1854. His ancestois have 
been in America since 1637. On his father's 
side, they were Scotch-Irish ; and on his 
mother's side, this same strain was mingled 
with that of the Holland-Dutch. Hence by 
the law of heredity, Dr. Stewart is justly 
entitled to the sterling and sturdy qualities 
he has exhibited in his youth and maturity. 

His primary education was received in 
the public and private schools of his native 
city, which also afforded him his prepara- 
tion for college. Other influences besides 
those of careful domestic training and 
thorough scholastic tuition and discipline 
exerted a power over him. The most 
active and receptive years of his youth were 
those of the Civil war, and the capital of 
Ohio at that time was the seat and scene of 
the most intense and continuous activities 
in the preparation for and the consequences 
of the internecine struggle. The glorious 
flag of the country, either in the fresh folds 
of the colors of the regiments departing for 
the seat of war, or on the tattered and 
stained standards of returning troops, were 
constantly before his youthful eyes, while 
his ears were ever assaulted by the stirring 
notes of the fife and drum, and the stately 
tramp of the marching soldiers. Press, 
platform and pulpit were giving utterance 
to patriotic sentiments, and sacrifices for 



country and free institutions was the per- 
sonal and public virtue he heard most fre- 
quently' and eloquently commended. His 
ancestors had been in this country for over 
two hundred years, and hence by blood, 
birth and training, be became an American 
of Americans, his heart thrilling with senti- 
ments of regard and reverence for the free 
and full life which his native country begot 
and fostered. 

When in maturing growth and approach- 
ing manhood, he was confronted by the need 
of making choice of an occupation or profes- 
sion he could see no calling which offered 
employment to his gifts and satisfaction for 
his longings so fully as the sacred office. 
For this he proceeded to prepare himself by 
the course of classical and theological study 
which the Presbyterian Church require of all 
who enter the ministry. With the class of 
1876 he completed the curriculum of Prince- 
ton College, after which he spent some time in 
the study of theology at the young but con- 
servative McCormick Seminary at Chicago, 
111. For the completion of his theological 
studies he resorted to the older and more lib- 
eral seminary at Auburn, N. Y. The Calvary 
church of the city of Auburn noted the 
promise of the young student and offered 
him the pastorate the year pi'evious. to the 
completion of his course. He accepted the 
charge and remained in the field for seven 
years, in which his success was so marked 
that he attracted the attention of the church 
at large. 

The Market Square Presbyterian church, of 
Harrisburg, Pa., gave him a unanimous call 
without knowing him and on the strength 
solely of the representations of persons 
whom they deemed competent to judge of 
his fitness for the pulpit and pastoral work. 
After a visit of some days to the city, he 
accepted the call and was installed as pastor, 
January 2, 1885. The Market Square church 
was one of the most prominent and impor- 
tant charges in the central part of Pennsyl- 
vania. It had in its membership many of 
the descendants of the Scotch-Irish pioneers 
who settled this part of the State, it had 
been remarkably favored in the enjoyment 
of the services of men of great talent and 
marked devotion in the pastoral office, the 
one preceding Dr. Stewart being Dr. Thos. 
H. Robinson, whose scholarly tastes and 
attainments, as well as his excellent character 
had led to his transfer to a chair in the 
Presbyterian Theological Seminary. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



283 



Dr. Stewart's labors in this important field 
have been crowned with abundant and most 
gratifying success. People and pastor are 
most happily in accord as to the methods 
and means of church activities, and their 
harmonious work and worship are delight- 
fully complete and satisfactory. The officers 
and members, while intensely Presbyterian 
and most cordially loyal to denominational 
doctrine and order, are at the same time de- 
cidedly of the liberal branch and type, and 
in this feature are highly gratified with the 
pastor who shares with them in their de- 
nomination preference. 

The dominant traits and characteristics of 
Dr. Stewart are his naturalness, simplicity, 
earnestness, and devotion in connection with 
eminent talents as a preacher and as organ- 
izer and leader. Even his scholarship par- 
takes of a practical turn, for while his eager 
search for truth takes him into all fields of 
investigation, he gathers therefrom only the 
fruits which nurture spirituality and practi- 
cal evangelism. 

The church under his leadership is thor- 
oughly organized, and is as much a working 
company as a factory, store or bank, in 
which every employee has his place and 
work, and all are united and co-operate to 
reach a single result. But the organization 
is not a creed, it is only a means by which 
the good of humanity and the glory of God 
are effectually promoted. 

Dr. Stewart finds time for work outside of 
the pastorate. He is a trustee of the College 
at Princeton, N. J., and of the Wilson Col- 
lege at Chambersburg, Pa. He has also 
been the president of the Pennsylvania 
Chatauqua. at Mt. Gretna, for the five years 
of its existence. He is much interested in 
the Y. P. S. C. E. and is the chairman of the 
General Assembly's special committee on this 
organization. 

By his activity, fidelity and good will in 
his relationships of man, neighbor and citi- 
zen, Dr. Stewart enjoys a popularity and in- 
fluence equal to the regard and affection 
rendered to him in his ministerial office. 



Kohl, Rev. Germanus, was born March 
17, 1855, in Berks county, Pa. His father, 
Samuel Kohl, was born at Haycock, Bucks 
county, Pa., and his mother in Berks county, 
Pa. The forefathers of the parents were 
among the first settlers of Bucks county and 
came to this country in the year 1774. Nine 
children were born to Samuel and Mary 



Kohl, four sons and five daughters. One 
daughter, Sarah, was married to George 
Geible; she died fifteen years ago. Two 
daughters, Agnes and Mary, joined the sis- 
ters of St. Joseph's at Chestnut Hill, Pa. 
Their names in religion are Sisters Gene- 
vieve and Loretta. 

Rev. Germanus Kohl taught in the pub- 
lic schools for three years, and in 1877 lie 
entered Mt. St. Mary's College, Emmitsburg, 
Md., from which he graduated June 23, 
1883; received his degree of A. M. two years 
after, and was ordained to the priesthood in 
August 22, 1887, by Bishop O'Hara, of Scran- 
ton, Pa. His first mission was Chambers- 
burg, Pa., where he was assistant to Rev. 
John J. Reilly for fourteen months. In 
1889 he was appointed pastor of St. Mary's 
church, Snow Shoe, Centre county, Pa., 
where he remained for twenty-seven months, 
when he was transfered back to Chambers- 
burg, where his pastorate was a most suc- 
cessful one. On May 6, 1893, Bishop Mc- 
Govern appointed him rector of the pro- 
cathedral, Harrisburg, Pa., and also one of 
his consultors, which positions he still holds. 



Howell, Rev. Charles J., Harrisburg, 
Pa., was born August 15, 1855, in Dutchess 
count}', N. Y., and is the son of Charles J. 
and Mary M. (DuBois) Howell. The ma- 
ternal grandfather was born in Dutchess 
county and came of a Huguenot family. He 
served as a trustee of Vassar College, was 
president of the First National Bank of 
Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and also manager of 
the Hudson River State Hospital. His wife 
was born January 30, 1859, at Fleming, N. 
Y. The father, Charles J., was in busi- 
ness at home until twenty-two years of age, 
when he began work on Wappinger's creek, 
about three miles from New York City. He 
married Miss Mary M. DuBois, daughter of 
Cornelias and Julia A. (More) DuBois. 
Their children are Charles J., Cornelias and 
Lydia H. The father was an elder in the 
Presbyterian church at the time of his death. 
His wife survives him. Charles J., at the 
age of fifteen, removed with his parents to 
Lebanon, where lie served as clerk with 
Lobenstein & Co. for two years. His educa- 
tion began in the private schools, and then 
he attended the River View Military Acad- 
emy for two years. In 1880 lie entered An- 
nistor's College, New Jersey, where he grad- 
uated in 1S84. One year later he took a 
course in the Princeton Theological Semi- 



284 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



nary and later a three years' course in a 
similar seminary in New York, where he 
graduated in 1888. Entering the ministry 
in 1888, he took charge of a Presbyte- 
rian church for three years, and in 1891 
received a call from La Grange, a suburb of 
Chicago, which he accepted and remained 
several years. In December, 1894, having 
a call from a congregation in Harrisburg, 
he returned East, and now serves the Pine 
Street Presbyterian church as its assistant 
pastor and is meeting with much success. 

Rev. Howell was married at Albany, N. 
Y., to Miss Cornelia N. Griggs. Before en- 
tering the ministry he taught a district 
school one term, and two years in the River 
View Academy, N. Y. 

Wendel, Rev. Jacob Hugo Rudolf, pas- 
tor of Zion's (German) Lutheran church,. 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in the city of 
Witdberg, Wurtemberg, Germany, April 13, 
1857. He is a son of the late Christian and 
Emilie (Martz) Wendel. His father was 
born in Eltingen, Wurtemberg, July 30, 
1820, and was a teacher ; he was principal 
of a private institute for girls in Stuttgart. 
Later, he was appointed state teacher in 
various towns. His last position was that of 
head teacher of the town school at Dettin- 
gen, Wurtemberg, where he died Septem- 
ber 8, 1885, after a useful life. He was 
married, July 16, 1848, at Waiblingen, to Emi- 
lie, born Martz, a native of Murrhardt, Wur- 
temberg, born February 24, 1825, daughter 
of Carl Ludwig Martz, a master of forests, 
and Marie Syoilla (Sulzen) Martz. They 
had thirteen children, of whom six are liv- 
ing: Herman Ludwig, professor in Real 
Gymnasium (College), Stuttgart, Germany; 
Gustav Theodor, wholesale wine and liquor 
dealer, Hamburg ; Rev. Jacob Hugo Rudolf; 
Albert Ludwig, an Umgeld-Commissarius in 
Freudenstadt, Germany; Christian Fried- 
rich, sheriff of Uracil county, Germany ; 
Amelie Marie, a teacher in Stuttgart. The 
mother is still living, and resides at Urach. 

Rev. J. H. R. Wendel received his ele- 
mentary education in the Latin school of 
his native city. His academic course was 
taken at the Lyceum of Nagold, from which 
institution he received his literary degrees. 
He then read law in Stuttgart, for two terms, 
in the department of State Law Instruction; 
he passed the state examination in law in 
1881. He had previously filled some court 
offices in Freudenstadt, Nurtingen and 



Reutlingen. In 1S80 he began the practice 
of law in Munsingen,and continued it until 
1882. 

In February, 1882, in response to a call 
from the Evangelical Lutheran General 
Council, he came to America to study the- 
ology, and to serve in the ministry of that 
church in America. He was ordained at 
Norristown, Pa., in May, 1883, by the Synod 
of Pennsylvania. His first pastorate was 
St. Thomas' church, Germantown, Philadel- 
phia, where he faithfully and acceptably 
ministered to the spiritual wants of the con- 
gregation until March 30, 1886. His next 
charge was at Port Jervis, N. Y., where he 
served two years as pastor of St. Peter's 
German Lutheran church. Since March, 
1888, he has been the faithful, devoted and 
beloved pastor of Zion Lutheran church 
(German) of Harrisburg. 

He was married in Reading, Pa., May 29, 
1883, to Miss Louisa, daughter of Martin 
and Anna Maria (Etzel) Freudenberger, of 
Schillingstadt, Baden, Germany. They have 
five children : Christian Hugo Martin, Emi- 
lie Louisa Amalie, Paulus Herman Albert, 
Gustav Adolphus John Frederick, Esther 
Barbara Ruth. Mr. Wendel is a member of 
the Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium of 
Pennsylvania and adjacent States, and of 
the General Council of the Evangelical Lu- 
theran Church of North America. 



Seubert, Rev. Father F. C, rector of St. 
Lawrence German Catholic church, Harris- 
burg, Pa., was born at Lebanon, Pa., August 
2, 1859. He is a son of F. Anton and Mar- 
garet (Ganster) Seubert, both natives of 
Aschaffenberg, Bavaria. They came to 
America in 1857. They were united in 
matrimony October 14, 1858, at St. Peter's 
church, Reading, Pa. In the spring of 1859 
they located at Lebanon, where they still 
reside, honored and respected by their neigh- 
bors. Fourteen children were born to them, 
of whom eleven are living: Catherine, wife 
of Jerome H. Youtz, residing at Lebanon; 
Miss Emma, residing in Philadelphia ; 
Joseph A., residing at Lebanon, Pa.; John 
J., residing at Sayre, Pa. ; Mary, wife of 
George S. Pence, residing at Lebanon ; Miss 
Anna H., residing in Philadelphia; George 
P., a student for the priesthood in St. Vin- 
cent's, Westmoreland county, Pa. ; C. Aloy- 
sius, a student in the Philadelphia College 
of Pharmacy, Philadelphia; Margaret and 
William H., attending St. Vincent's College, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



285 



and the subject of this biography, who was 
the eldest of the children. 

Father Seubert received his early educa- 
tion in the parochial schools of his native 
town. In the fall of 1876 he went to Mon- 
treal, Canada, where he spent seven years in 
college. Five years of this time were spent 
in classical studies, and two years in the 
philosophical course. He was then called 
to Sylvan Heights Seminary by Rt. Rev. 
Bishop Shanahan, where he studied theology. 
On June 26, 1886, he was ordained to the 
priesthood by Rt. Rev. Archbishop Ryan, of 
Philadelphia, Rt. Rev. Bishop Shanahan 
being too ill at the time to hold the ordina- 
tion. His first appointment was at Chain- 
bersburg, where he was assistant to Rev. 
Father C. A. Schlueter until January, 1887. 
On January 14, 1887, he took charge of St. 
Agnes' church, Lock Haven, Pa., where he 
remained for five years, during which time 
he won the love and esteem of all classes by 
bis earnest and successful work. Under his 
care the charge grew and prospered as it 
had never done before. The church and 
convent buildings were remodeled, a new 
parochial residence erected, and many other 
important improvements made. On Janu- 
ary 14, 1892, he took charge of St. Lawrence 
parish, and since that date has also been ap- 
pointed secretary of the diocese. He is a 
gentleman of pleasing address, with a genial 
countenance and charming manners, and is 
esteemed by all as a kindty, godly man: 



De Yoe, Rev. Luther, pastor of Messiah 
Lutheran church, Harrisburg, Pa., was 
born in Bergen county, N. J. He is the son 
of Rev. E. and Anna (Crounse) De Yoe. 
He received his academic education at Tren- 
ton, N. J. There he completed his prepara- 
tion for college. He spent seven years at 
Gettysburg, Pa., pursuing for four years the 
regular classical course at Pennsylvania Col- 
lege, and taking the prescribed curriculum 
of the Theological Seminary during the 
next three years, graduating from the latter 
in 1889. In the following year he received, 
at Philadelphia, his license to preach, and in 
1S89 he was regularly ordained to the sacred 
office at Martinsburg, Va. 

The first pastorate of Mr. De Yoe was at 
Emmitsburg, Md., where he had preached 
one year while he was a student at the sem- 
inary. He remained in the charge two and 
a-half years, and was eminently successful 
in his work, which he only relinquished in 



order to occupy a wider field that opened to 
him. In 1891 he accepted a call which was 
extended to him from Messiah Lutheran 
church, at Harrisburg. Messiah was a 
prominent congregation and one that had 
been ministered to by men of the highest 
order of talent. Rev. De Yoe has devoted 
his attention solely to this work, and his 
labors of the last five years have demon- 
strated his ability and his personal worth. 
They have been }'ears crowned with success. 
Rev. De Yoe was married in Gettysburg, 
November 19, 1889, to Margaret J., daughter 
of Dr. H. W. and Mary ( Welty) McKnight. 
He is a member of Capital City Lodge, No. 
327, Jr. 0. U. A. M. Mrs. De'Yoe, wife of 
Rev. Luther De Yoe, was born at Newville, 
Cumberland county, Pa., September 8, 1868. 
Her father, Rev. H. W. McKnight, D. D., lias 
been for many years a prominent and suc- 
cessful minister of the Lutheran Church. 
He is at present president of Pennsylvania 
College, Gettysburg, Pa. 



Early (Oei-irle), Thomas, was an active 
member of the Evangelical Lutheran church 
at Ensengen, in the Kingdom of Wurtem- 
berg. His son, John Early, born January 9, 
1724, came to America at the age of twenty- 
four years. After he had received his di- 
ploma as a carpenter, he traveled through 
different parts of Germany to perfect his 
trade. He was also a Master Free Mason. 
He came to America in 1750. landing first 
at Philadelphia, and subsequently walking to 
Reading. He was here elected trustee and 
building master for erecting the First Evan- 
gelical Lutheran church there. This edifice 
has been rebuilt and is one of the largest 
churches in the place. He married Susan 
Brombach and moved to Manada Gap, now 
in Dauphin county, Pa. He built a grist 
mill on the foundation of the present mill 
which is still there. He also built the mill 
at Bow creek, now owned by Israel Early. 
Both of these mills have always been and 
are now in the possession of the Earlys. He 
had one son, Christian Earby, when his first 
wife died in 1753. From her spring all of 
the mountain Earlys and those near or along 
the Jonestown road. He married, secondly. 
Regina Siechle, in 1755, daughter of John 
Albrecht Siechle, and moved to Swatara 
creek, near the mouth of the Quittapohilla 
creek, where he joined Hans B. Bendnaugle, 
George Berger and others in the building 
of the First Evangelical Lutheran log 



286 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



church, when the region was almost an un- 
broken wilderness. The church is called 
the Bendnaugle's Evangelical Lutheran 
church to this day. By his second wife he 
had three sons and two daughters, namely : 
John, from whom all the valley Earlys 
spring, from near Palmyra, now Lebanon 
county; William, Thomas, Catharine and 
Anna Margaretta. He was also one of the 
principal and original subscribers, together 
with his sons John, William and Thomas, 
in 1803, to build the present beautiful sub- 
stantial Bendnaugle's church, the pride of 
the region. His son, William Early, moved 
to Centre county, Pa., in the beginning of 
the present century, where he and his father 
took up a large tract of land, and laid out a 
town in 1797, called Earlysburg, also Will- 
iamsburg. He built a saw mill there and 
donated a tract of land to the Evangelical 
Lutheran church and the Reformed, called 
Emanuel church, and aided in building a 
log church. He was one of the first officers 
of the church, which was rebuilt in 1837. 
He was one of the first esquires and his 
brother was the first constable of Centre 
county. William Early, Esq., was also 
on the first grand jury in Centre county. 
From him spring the Southern and Western 
Earlys. The second son of the first John 
Early was esquire of Londonderry town- 
ship, as was his brother William in Centre 
county, and the second son William of the 
second son John, father of D. S. Early, was 
also esquire of Londonderry township for 
forty years. None of his suits were ever 
settled in court. This William Early, the 
father of Aaron Daniel Seth Early, was born 
in Lancaster county, and married in Dau- 
phin county, and died in Lebanon county, 
and was never out of the county or London- 
deriw township. All of the Earlys were 
Whigs until the Republican party was organ- 
ized. The second John Early, son of Chris- 
tian Earl}', the only son of the first John 
Early, by his first wife, was also esquire in 
West Hanover township, Manada Gap, Dau- 
phin county, until he died. 

The family of William, the second son of 
John Early, were all born on the farm called 
Beetime, in the present house which he built, 
and consisted of fourteen children, eight 
sons and six daughters. Jacob, the oldest 
son of the second John and brother of Will- 
iam, was one of the promoters of the Camp- 
bellstown Lutheran and Reformed church, 
and his descendants are buried there. Will- 



iam, the second son, was one of the main 
pillars and supporters of the Bendnaugle's 
Evangelical Lutheran church, and deeded 
a plat of ground to said church, and he and 
his family are buried there. His son, 
Joshua Heaster, stood in his place after his 
death, and his son John supported the same 
church. A. D. S. Early, the son of William 
Early, assisted liberally with his means and 
deeded a half acre of land to the same 
church, for the sake of Christ, and for his 
ancestors. He desired to beautify the church 
and have a dwelling on the premises, and to 
preserve them as memorials of the virtues of 
his ancestors, and to have some one to dwell 
there to keep the church and burial place 
always in order. William Early and Mar- 
tin G. Early, sons of William Early, were 
among the founders and principal donators 
of the first Evangelical Lutheran and Re- 
formed church in Palmyra, Pa., and Martin 
.G.Early was also one of the movers and 
supporters of the Second Lutheran church 
in Palmyra. Rev. John William Early, 
the son of William Early and brother of D. 
S. Early, is a minister of the Evangelical 
Lutheran Church, and is a graduate of the 
Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Pa. 



Early, Aaron Daniel Seth, is of the 
fourth generation in the line of descent 
from Thomas Early. He was born May 14, 
1828, in Lebanon county, on the farm known 
as the Beetime farm, half way between Pal- 
myra and Campbellstown. He is a son of 
the late William Early, Esq., and Christiana 
(Kreider) Early, daughter of Rev. Martin 
Kreider. When seven years of age his father 
moved to Bendnaugles in 1835. He worked 
on the farm and went to the Bendnaugle's 
parochial school until 1845, when he entered 
the store of his brother, M. G. Early, and 
went to Alexander Dasher's school at Pal- 
myra, Pa., until 1847. He then studied at 
the Lebanon Academy under John Gluge, 
principal, until 1848, when he went to Ann- 
ville Mills, now Shiner P. 0., one mile be- 
low New Market Forge, to represent his 
brother Martin's half interest in a store. In 
1849 he bought the store and began business 
for himself. He erected a new building, the 
largest and finest country store in Lebanon 
county, and also bought a farm, built two 
nouses and two barns, and carried on his 
business and improved his property until 
1857, when he sold out the store, moved to 
Annville, bought another store, Sertyer's old 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



289 



stand, and carried on a large general mer- 
cantile business, and also dealt in real estate. 
He is a Republican in politics and was 
elected judge of elections of North Annville 
township in 1851, when he was twenty-three 
years of age. He was elected one of the cor- 
porators of the Annville Fire Insurance Com- 
pany in 1858 or 1859, and one of the street 
commissioners to grade the town in 1860. 
On account of impaired health he freed him- 
self from business for one year. In 1861, in 
connection with John H. Balsbaugh, he 
bought the half interest in a large warehouse 
and entered the grain, milling and coal 
business at Swatara Station. In 1861 he was 
appointed postmaster by President Lincoln, 
and ticket agent by the Reading Railroad 
Company. He also built a large brick dwell- 
ing house at Swatara Station. In 1864 he 
sold his large business interests to Abraham 
Brechbill, and moved to Hummelstown, and 
opened a large grain, coal and lime business. 
By his ability and influence lie was instru- 
mental in locating the Denominational Col- 
lege of the United Brethren in Christ at 
Annville, and was elected the first president 
of the board of trustees of this college. 
He was elected president of the board of 
commissioners to grade the town of Hum- 
melstown. He was the discoverer of the 
Brown Hermetite ore mines near Swatara 
Station, and the organizer of the Swatara 
Iron Company, and was elected the general 
superintendent of the same. He was elected 
a director of the United Brethren Mutual 
Aid Society of Pennsylvania in 1869, and 
filled the place for twenty-seven years. In 
1870 he was elected general superintendent 
for ten and filled it for eleven years, when 
he resigned on account of failing health. 
While in the office he traveled over twenty 
States and part of Canada. In 1872 he 
moved to Harrisburg in order to afford his 
children the advantages of education, im- 
provement, culture and the enjoyment which 
the city affords. His residence is on the 
corner of Sixth and Kelker streets. He or- 
ganized a Greenback Club in 1S77 and was 
made candidate for Congress by that party, 
and ran far ahead even of the candidate for 
governor on the same ticket. He was one 
of the organizers of the Reily Hose Fire 
Company No. 10, in Harrisburg, and was 
the first treasurer of the company. He was 
one of the first subscribers and a stock- 
holder and organizer of the Kelker Street 
Market Company of Harrisburg. Is a 



stockholder in the first Harrisburg Street 
Railway Company. He is one of the organ- 
izers of the German-American Union. He 
was one of the first supporters and organizers 
of the Committee of One Hundred of the city 
of Harrisburg, and served as its chairman. 
Mr. Early was a subscriber of funds to 
build and aid four colleges, two Lutheran 
churches, one Church of God, thirty-two 
United Brethren in Christ churches, six par- 
sonages, one printing house, four missionary 
societies, two church erection societies, and 
owner of forty-eight properties that were 
deeded to him. He was farmer, merchant, 
grain and coal dealer, mineralogist, inventor, 
insurance manager, or general agent of 
insurance, builder, lecturer and minister of 
the gospel. 

Mr. Early, January 1, 1859, received a 
quarterly conference license of the United 
Brethren Church, without his knowledge, by 
a unanimous vote of said Quarterly, to 
preach the gospel at Annville, Lebanon 
county, Pa., signed by the presiding elder, 
Rev. A. Steigerwalt. On January 12, 1861, 
at the annual conference of the same church 
held at Pine Grove, Schuylkill county, Pa., 
after the examination on his character and 
regular reading course, he also received a 
conference license, of the East Pennsyl- 
vania Conference, to preach the gospel, 
signed by Bishop J. J. Glossbrenner. Feb- 
ruary 28, 1864, at the annual conference 
held at Schuylkill Haven, Mr. Early was or- 
dained an elder of the Church of the United 
Brethren in Christ and received authority 
to administer the ordinances, signed by 
Bishop J. Markwood. 

Mr. Early was married January 23, 1851, 
to Miss Amanda A. Mark, daughter of Rev. 
George A. and Christiana Runkel Mark. To 
them have been born six children, four of 
whom are living, namely : Clara S., wife of 
E. W. S. Parthemore; Minerva J., single; 
Ida E., wife of Albert Deitrich ; Nora J., 
wife of William Deitrich ; two sisters hav- 
ing married two brothers on the same dav. 

William Early, the father of A. D. S. 
Early, was one of the founders of the Theo- 
logical Seminary at Gettysburg, an active 
politician, a Whig until after Gen. William 
Henry Harrison's presidential election, when 
he turned Democrat, and all his sons Re- 
publicans, except his son Joshua Heaster. 
who was an independent voter. After 1865, 
his oldest son, John, also became a Demo- 
crat, and his son Daniel Seth turned to the 



290 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Greenbacks, and was a leader of that party, 
and ever since, he says he is " an Independ- 
ent of the Independents." All the rest of 
the Earlys are still Republicans. 

Hildrup, Thomas, a native of England, 
came to America and settled at Hartford, 
Conn., in 1766, where he learned the trade 
of a jeweler, and carried on that business 
there during the remainder of his active 
life. He was an influential citizen of the 
place, and was appointed and served as post- 
master of Hartford for several years. He 
had five sons: John, Joslin, Thomas, William 
and Jesse, and two daughters. Jesse Hil- 
drup spent his life as a tanner and shoe- 
maker in Middletown, and a farmer in Dan- 
bury, Conn., and died in Belvidere, 111. 
His wife was Sophia Turner, of Middlefield, 
and their children were: William T., a 
sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this 
volume; Mary, who married Rev. S. C. 
Howe, a Methodist clergyman; Jesse, a 
lawyer of Chicago, 111.; Martha and John, a 
machinist in the car works at Harrisbunr. 



Kelker, Frederick, son of Anthony and 
Mary Magdalene Kelker, was born in Leb- 
anon, Pa., October 29, 1780 ; wasbaptized No- 
vember 26, 1780, in the German Reformed 
church and confirmed and united with the 
same in 1799. He entered the store of Oves 
& Moore, at Lebanon, in 1801 for the pur- 
pose of learning the hardware business. 
After becoming a member of this firm, he 
removed to Harrisburg in 1805 and em- 
barked in the first exclusively hardware 
business in this city, under the firm name of 
F. Kelker & Co., at No. 5, now No. 9 South 
Front street. This partnership continued 
until 1811, when Mr. Kelker became sole 
proprietor and conducted the business until 
1823, when in July of that year he sold out 
to George Oglesby and Jacob Poole. Mr. 
Kelker died July 12, 1857. He was remark- 
able for punctuality and integrity. His 
habits for industry and economy led to the 
acquisition of a competency, and the latter 
half especially of his life was devoted to the 
amelioration of the condition of the poor, 
sick and friendless. He filled many minor 
positions in the community in which he 
lived, always rejecting political preferment. 
For several terms he was member and pres- 
ident of the borough council. He was a di- 
rector of the branch established by the Phil- 
adelphia Bank, in Harrisburg, and a direc- 



tor of the Harrisburg Bank. When the 
public schools were first established in Penn- 
sylvania, he became a director and was 
ready at all times to co-operate with his fel- 
low-citizens in all of the benevolent enter- 
prises of the day. Mr. Kelker was prom- 
inent in the Reformed church and presided 
at the meeting on November 17, 1820, to 
establish the first Sunday-school in connec- 
tion with the church, and was also active in 
the measures adopted for erecting the church 
building on the corner of Third and Chest- 
nut streets. His wife, Lydia Genberhing 
Chamberlin, born in Philadelphia, April 9, 
1786, united with the German Reformed 
church of Harrisburg, April 22, 1809, and 
died May 2, 1812. Mr. Kelker was married 
secondly to Catharine Fager, born in Har- 
risburg, October 24, 1798, daughter of John 
Fager ; baptized December 2, 1798, in the 
Evangelical Lutheran Zion church and first 
partook of communion of the Lord's Supper 
March 26, 1815. After her marriage she 
withdrew from the Lutheran and united 
with the Reformed church. 



Bailey, Gen. Joel, was born in Penn's 
Manor, Bucks county, Fa., on September 26, 
1789. His parents, Joseph and Lydia Bailej 7 , 
were Quakers. His ancestors were among 
the original settlers of Pennsylvania, coming 
from England in 1682. 

He learned the trade of a blacksmith in 
his native county, and in 1810 removed to 
and settled in the then little village of Har- 
risburg. He was an active, intelligent, en- 
terprising young man, who started in the 
world "on his own hook" and to make his 
fortune. He established a blacksmith shop 
on the site of the Hotel Columbus, opposite 
the present postoffice building, at the corner 
of Third and Walnut streets, Harrisburg, 
more than eighty years ago, and for many 
years did all the important work in his line 
of business in this section. Much of the 
iron work of the old State capitol was manu- 
factured or done under his supervision. 
Subsequently he was largely engaged in 
contract work. He was one of the principal 
men in the construction of the Chesapeake 
and Delaware canal, the Wiconisco Feeder, 
the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, the Cum- 
berland Valley railroad, and the Gettysburg 
or so-called " Tape»Worm " railroad, build- 
ing many of its sections and culverts, the 
latter of which stand to-day as monuments 
of engineering skill and construction. These 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



291 



are yet to be seen in the present Gettysburg 
and Harrisburg railroad. 

From his earliest youth Mr. Bailey was 
much interested in military affairs. He was 
first lieutenant in Capt. Richard M. Grain's 
company, which served in the war of 1812-14, 
and which inarched to the defense of Balti- 
more under the command of Gen. John 
Forster, of Harrisburg, who had charge of 
the Pennsylvania troops. In 1829 and 1830 
he was keeper of the State arsenal under the 
administration of Governor Wolf, and there 
are, in the possession of his son, letters re- 
ferring to orders for guns, ammunition, etc., 
from George B. Porter, adjutant general and 
subsequently governor of Michigan Terri- 
tory under General Jackson's administration, 
and subsequently from Simon Cameron, 
who also served as adjutant general under 
Governor Wolf. For several years General 
Bailey served as brigade inspector of the 
militia of Dauphin county, and was after- 
wards brigadier general of the troops com- 
prised in Dauphin, Lebanon and North- 
umberland counties. 

For many years General Bailey was prom- 
inent in political affairs, having all his life 
adhered to the principles of the Democratic 
party. He was the warm, personal and 
political friend of William Findlay, George 
Wolf, James Buchanan, David R. Porter, 
Francis R. Shunk, Daniel Sturgeon, Judge 
Samuel D. Franks, James R. Snowden, Will- 
iam Hopkins, Arnold Plumer. George 
Sanderson and other worthies of the past. 
In 182 1 he was one of the commissioners to 
fix the seat of justice of Juniata county, 
Lewistown being chosen. He was chief 
burgess of the borough of Harrisburg in 
1832, and served several times as a member 
of the borough council. While chief bur- 
gess he approved an ordinance enacted June 
25, 1832, which was also signed by N. B. 
Wood, president of the council, "authoriz- 
ing a loan to be applied in improving the 
streets, lanes and alleys of the borough of 
Harrisburg." The loan was to be for 
$20,000, but whether it was ever accom- 
plished there is no record. In 1833 he an- 
nounced himself as a candidate for the Legis- 
lature for Dauphin county, but was not 
elected owing to the then condition of af- 
fairs regarding the Anti-Masonic movement. 
He was also prominent in Masonic circles, 
having been for maay years a member of 
Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, A. Y. M., of 
Harrisburg. 



General Bailey was a remarkably fine- 
looking man. He stood about five feet ten 
inches in height, was straight as an arrow, 
his shoulders were broad and square, and 
these were surrounded by a splendid head of 
brown hair. He wore side whiskers, which 
gave a pleasant effect to his handsome, in- 
telligent face. He was a superb horseman, 
and when mounted looked the born soldier. 
In his manner he was extremely pleasant, 
and he was the life of every social circle in 
which he moved. In his actions, public and 
private, he was generous and benevolent, 
and his fellow-citizens of all classes were 
warmly attached to him. 

His domestic life was a very happy one. 
He was married March 10, 1814, to Elizabeth 
Seidle, of Berks county. He was the father 
of eight children, six boys and two girls, the 
only survivor being the youngest, Mr. 
George Bailey, who still resides at the old 
homestead, No. 222 Locust street. General 
Bailey died on the 16th of October, 1845, at 
the comparatively early age of fifty-six years. 
His wife survived him thirty years, dying, 
on the 14th of August, 1875, aged eighty- 
three years. 

In all the relations of life, whether as 
husband, father, citizen or soldier, he bore 
himself as a man and Christian. His death 
was a cause for sincere sorrow and mourning, 
not only in Harrisburg, but throughout the 
State of Pennsylvania. He was buried with 
Masonic and civil services, and with the 
honors of war by the military of Dauphin, 
county. His remains are interred in the 
Harrisburg cemetery. 



Simmons, Col. Seneca G., was born on 
December 27, 1808, in Windsor county, Vt. 
the son of Alfred Simmons and his wife 
Deborah Perkins. He was brought up on 
his father's farm, receiving the limited edu- 
cation obtained at the country school. At 
the age of fourteen he entered the military 
school of Capt. Alden Partridge, then lo- 
cated at Middletown, Conn., subsequently 
accompanying the school on its removal to 
Georgetown, in the District of Columbia. 
In July, 1S29, he entered West Point, by the 
appointment of President Jackson, from 
which institution he graduated with dis- 
tinction, in 1S34, and was assigned to the 
Seventh U. S. infantry, as brevet second 
lieutenant, July 1, 1834; promoted to sec- 
ond lieutenant on the 31st of December fol- 
lowing. 



292 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Previous to joining his regiment he was 
assigned to topographical duty under Major 
Win. G. McNeil, and assisted in the survey 
of the harbor of Apalachicola, Fla. During 
the summers of 1835 and 1836 he was en- 
gaged, under Col. Stephen H. Long, upon 
surveys in the State of Maine; first on the 
coast and then on a contemplated line of 
railway between Belfast and Quebec, Canada. 
He was promoted to first lieutenant Janu- 
ary 39, 1837, when he joined his regiment, 
shortly after receiving his appointment as 
aid to Gen. Matthew Arbuckle, then in com- 
mand of the department of the Southwest. 
He was also made assistant adjutant gen- 
eral, which position he held for several years, 
retaining it after General Taylor resumed 
command, and until relieved by Colonel 
Bliss, the General's son-in-law. His regi- 
ment was then, the spring of 1842, serving 
in Florida, and thither he immediately re- 
paired. At the conclusion of the Florida 
war his regiment was detailed for duty in 
garrisoning posts on the Gulf of Mexico, and 
he was stationed at Fort Pike, La., where he 
remained during the years 1842 and 1843, 
transacting, in addition to the duties of his 
position in his company, those of commis- 
sary and quartermaster to the post. When 
his turn came for being detailed on recruit- 
ing service, he was ordered to Syracuse, N. 
Y., and was engaged in that duty until the 
breaking out of the war with Mexico. On 
his arrival in the field, he was immediately 
assigned as assistant commissary and quar- 
termaster at Matamoras. During the year 
1847 he remained at that point, but on receiv- 
ing his commission as captain, to date from 
February 16, 1847, he rejoined his regiment, 
then under Scott, on the way to the Mexican 
capital, and distinguished himself at the 
battle of Haumantla, on October 9, that 
year. 

At the close of the war he was stationed 
at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., a portion of his 
regiment, including his own company, 
having been ordered to Fort Leavenworth, 
Kan., on special duty. In 1849 and 1850 
he was sent to Florida, owing to the hostile 
attitude of the Seminole Indians. In 1850 
he was stationed at Fort Leavenworth, and 
while there received a severe injury, which 
for a time placed his life in a critical con- 
dition, and from the effects of which he 
never fully recovered. Lame, and on 
crutches, he was, in the year 1851, ordered 
to Pottsville, Pa., on recruiting service. 



While stationed there he so far recovered as 
to attend to the duties of active service, and 
was sent to the command of Fort Arbuckle 
upon the frontier. His regiment was soon 
afterwards ordered to Utah. Here he re- 
mained four years. During the years 1858 
and 1859 he was stationed at Jefferson Bar- 
racks, Mo., and at Newport Barracks, Ky., 
but unable, through the disability referred 
to, to perform the active duties required of 
him, Captain Simmons sought and obtained 
a furlough, and joined his family at Harris- 
burg. 

He was here when the slaveholders' rebel- 
lion commenced ; and when the first call 
was made for troops. Captain Simmons was 
made mustering officer for the Pennsylvania 
volunteers. To him more is due than he 
has generally been given credit for — the 
organization, the discipline and the efficiency 
of that notable body of volunteers, the Penn- 
sylvania reserves. From April to June, 
1861, notwithstanding the physical infirmity 
from which he suffered, he labored most 
assiduously, and such was the high apprecia- 
tion in which he was held by the men of 
that brave organization, that he could have 
had the command of any one regiment. 
That of the Fifth was unanimously tendered 
him, although personally unknown to any of 
the officers of that body. His commission 
as colonel bears date June 21, 1861. 

Colonel Simmons' first service was to 
march, in connection with the celebrated 
" Bucktail " regiment and some artillery, to 
the support of General Wallace in West 
Virginia, and thence to Washington City, 
where he drilled his command and prepared 
it for service in the division (General Mc- 
Call's.) During the remainder of 1861 he 
continued at the National Capital, engaged 
in covering its approaches. 

On the 9th of September he was promoted 
major of the Fourth infantry, but preferred 
to remain with the volunteer troops. He 
participated in the action at Drainesville, 
December 20, 1861, and until May of the 
year following his command was performing 
guard dut} 7 on the Orange and Alexandria 
railroad, the subsequent months on picket 
near Fredericksburg, Va. In the Seven 
Days' fight before Richmond he took a 
decisive part, especially in the action at 
Mechanicsville and Gaines' Mill. At Charles 
City X Roads, or as frequently termed, White 
Oak Swamp, on the 30th of June, 1862, 
while leading the First brigade with true 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



293 



Spartan valor, he fell in the thickest of the 
fight. General McCall, who was captured on 
the evening of the battle justspoken of, while 
reconnoitering, sent to Mrs. Simmons the 
following account of her brave husband's 
death : 

Richmond, Virginia, 

Tobacco Warehouse Prison, 

July 15, 1862. 

My Dear Madam : It is not to say that I 
mourn the loss of a friend that I write to 
you, although twenty years' knowledge of his 
worth and very many most estimable qual- 
ities, had truly endeared your husband to 
me; nor is it to attempt to offer consolation 
in your bereavement, which One above alone 
can give you. I write to inform you that 
after Colonel Simmons, who, on the 30th of 
June, commanded the First brigade of my 
division, was wounded, he was captured by 
the enemy, carried to their hospital, and 
laid by the side of Captain Biddle, of Phila- 
delphia, my assistant adjutant general, who 
was also severely wounded and a prisoner. 
During the night of the 1st of July, as I am 
informed, the colonel sank under the effects ' 
of his wound, and calmly expired at Biddle's 
side. This I have from Biddle himself, who 
is here in the hospital. 

I have only to add that the Colonel's body 
has been brought to this city and is interred 
here, where it may be conveyed to his friends 
at the proper time. 

Believe me, dear madam, very truly and 
sincerely, j'our friend and obedient servant, 
Geo. A. McCall, 
Brigadier General, U. S. A. 

To Mrs. Seneca G. Simmons, Harrisburg, Pa. 

Twenty years after, in October, 1882. an 
officer in the Confederate service, Capt. R. L. 
Lewis, of Pickens county, S. O, wrote Mrs. 
Simmons, giving her the following reminis- 
cence : 

" It was on the 30th of June, 1862, in one 
of the fights around Richmond, that our 
brigade was called on to make a charge on a 
battery of twelve pieces, supported by a bri- 
gade from Pennsylvania, commanded by Col- 
onel Simmons, acting as brigadier general. 
M. Jenkins was our colonel, of a South Caro- 
lina regiment, and was also acting as briga- 
dier general. Colonel Simmons' brigade was 
stationed in a field to the right of the battery, 



his right resting on or near a house. The 
place was called Frazier's Farm, or Glendale. 
Our brigade marched right across the field, 
with fixed bayonets, against his. We did 
not fire a gun until we were within twenty or 
thirty paces. When Colonel Simmons' bri- 
gade gave away or broke ranks, he sat on his 
horse trying to rally them until he received 
a fatal wound and fell from his horse. We 
gained the field and took the battery, but 
suffered severely. Our loss was heavy; I had 
twenty-five men wounded, six killed and one 
lieutenant wounded. Some companies lost 
more. After the fight I went to the battle- 
field to look after my men. I found your 
husband lying where he had fallen from 
his horse. He told me who he was, that lie 
was badly wounded, and then' asked me to 
help him. I called some of our ambulance 
corps, and had him carried to a vacant house 
near by. I took off his spurs and sword, 
which he gave to me, placed him upon a bed, 
and gave him all the help I could. He asked 
me who was commanding the fight. I told 
him Gen. Q. U. Anderson. He said, " I 
know him. I was with him in the Mexican 
war." He then asked me to tell the General 
that he would like to see him. I conveyed 
the message to General Anderson, but he said 
he could not see him. The next day I called 
to see how Mr. Simmons was doing, but found 
him in a comatose state. He could not com- 
municate anything. When I placed him 
upon the bed, I noticed he had on a watch, 
I think a guard or chain made of hair, but 
it was gone. Some one had taken it. As I 
had to go out to the Malvern Hill fight, I 
saw no more of him, but made inquiries con- 
cerning him, and was told that he was 
carried to the field hospital, where he died. 
Dr. Gaston, our brigade surgeon, took from 
his person three medals, one for services in 
the Mexican war, one from the State of Penn- 
sylvania, and one from the United States for 
gallant services. Colonel Sims, our adjutant 
general, said he took a pin from his shirt, 
marked with the letter " G." I presume it 
was a Masonic emblem. I gave the Colonel's 
sword to Gen.M. Jenkins. He was killed in 
the battle of the Wilderness on the 0th of 
May, 1864, with it on. I presume his family 
have it." 

On the 3d of May, 1882, Dr. 0. M. Doyle, 

of Toccoa, Ga., in a letter to Mrs. Simmons, 

gives the following interesting information: 

... "At the time of the battle referred 



294 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



to, I was regimental surgeon, and with others 
of the brigade, in charge of the field hospital. 
I was told that Colonel Simmons fell in front 
of our part of the line, and as our line ad- 
vanced he was taken up and brought to the 
field hospital by my ambulance corps. He 
was wounded by a minie ball, through the 
liver and lung, and died, I think, the second 
day. I treated him in the best manner pos- 
sible under the circumstances, and had him 
buried as decently as could be done there at 
such a time. He was reported by our officers 
as acting conspicuously brave on that san- 
guinary field, as being the cause, in their 
opinion, of that part of the Federal line 
standing as long as it did. That report did 
much toward stimulating a greater desire 
on our part to do all that was possible for a 
brave but fallen foe. Before death he thanked 
us sincerely for our attentions. He gave to 
some one of our party (I do not recollect 
in whose hand he placed them) a gold 
watch, a picture of his wife, and I think $60 
in gold coin, with the request that the watch 
and picture (I do not think he included the 
coin) be sent to his wife. I have one knowl- 
edge or recollection of a Masonic pin or 
badge. If I had seen one, I am sure I would 
recollect it from my association with the 
order. These articles were placed in posses- 
sion of Dr. Gaston, our brigade surgeon (now 
dead), with the lequest made by Colonel 
Simmons (coin and all). A few days after 
this occurrence there was a Federal surgeon 
at our quarters, temporarily in our lines. 
We were all together, this surgeon, Dr. Gas- 
ton and myself. Dr. Gaston told me that he 
had turned those articles of Colonel Simmons 
over to this surgeon, to be sent to his widow. 
I suppose I heard the name of the Federal 
surgeon when I met him, but I have no 
recollection of what it was. Such is a hasty 
account of what I know of your husband's 
death." . . . 

The foregoing is all the information gained 
concerning that intrepid officer. No braver 
man drew a sword in defense of the Union. 
No nobler life was sacrificed in that fratricidal 
strife. Strict in discipline, amounting to 
sternness, he had a generous spirit. His face 
presented ordinarily a calm and benevolent 
expression, but when excited every feature 
seemed to flash fire. He had a big heart, 
and was as grandly lenient as he was severely 
rigid. In person he was nearly six feet in 
height, of strong and robust frame, florid 



complexion, brown hair, heavy beard and 
light blue eyes. 

Colonel Simmons was married at Harris- 
burg, Pa., in 1834, to Elmira A., daughter 
of Caleb and Content (Le Barron) Simmons, 
early residents of Harrisburg, whose earthly 
remains are interred in the Harrisburg 
cemetery. Colonel and Mrs. Simmons had 
four children : Charles F., born in Augusta, 
Me., December 21, 1835, he was a civil en- 
gineer in the service of the Reading Rail- 
road Company, and died at Pottsville, Pa., 
March 16,1856; Frederick Douglass, born 
at Fort Gibson, Indian Territory, also a civil 
engineer in the service of the Reading Rail- 
road Company, and died at Harrisburg, 
Edward Courtney, born in Indian Territory, 
and died at Governor's Island, Fort Colum- 
bus, New York Harbor; Elmira Adelaide, 
wife of Daniel J. Attick, born at Fort Pike, 
La., December 27, 1842. 

Mrs. Simmons was born January 2, 1808, 
and died February 6, 1886. As wife and 
mother, she had few superiors. Those who 
know her best, appreciated her goodness and 
nobleness of heart. She was a member of 
St. Stephen's Protestant Episcopal church. 
Her funeral services were conducted by her 
rector, Rev. R. J. Keeling, D. D., who paid a 
loving tribute to her life and services. Her 
remains were taken to Pottsville, Pa., for in- 
terment, Post No. 116, G. A. R., acting as a 
military escort, and many distinguished 
citizens of Harrisburg attending as pall- 
bearers and as mourners. At the grave the 
impressive burial service of the Episcopal 
Church was followed by that of the Grand 
Arm)- of the Republic ; and floral tributes 
of affection and respect were laid upon her 
casket by the comrades, they delighting to 
honor one who, among her many endearing 
benevolent traits, had always shown herself 
the constant and devoted friend of the sol- 
dier. 

Daniel J. Attick, of the firm of Attick & 
Bros., manufacturers and dealers in lime 
and stone, was born in Swatara township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., in May, 1856. He is 
a son of Daniel and the late Mary A. (Mep- 
ford) Attick. He grew up on his father's 
farm, receiving a public school education in 
his native township. He was a farmer, and 
flour miller ; in April, 1895, he engaged in 
his present business. Mr. Attick was mar- 
ried in Harrisburg, December 23, 1886, to 
Elmira A., daughter of Col. Seneca G. Sim- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



295 



mons and his wife, Elmira A. (Simrnons) 
Simmons. He is a Democrat in politics. 
Mrs. Attick is a member of St. Stephen's P. 
E. church. 



Wierman, Thomas Thornburg, son of 
Isaac Wierman and Susannah (Comly) Wier- 
man, was born in 1813, in Menallen town- 
ship, Adams county, Pa., and died at Harris- 
burg August 2, 1887. He was educated at 
private schools, that of Judge McLean, at 
Gettysburg, and Amos Gilbert, at Strasburg, 
Lancaster county, and was employed subse- 
quently on his father's farm at the home 
place until twenty-three years of age, teach- 
ing school in the neighborhood during the 
winter months. In 1836, through favor of 
Hon. Thaddeus Stevens, canal commissioner, 
Thomas T. Wierman received an appoint- 
ment and began his professional career as 
rodman on the survey for the North Branch 
canal from Wilkes-Barre to State line, under 
James D. Harris, chief engineer, remaining 
there two years. In 1838 lie was employed 
under Mr. Harris on surveys to avoid the 
incline plane on the State railroad near 
Philadelphia. In 1840 was assistant under 
A. B. Warford, chief engineer on the repairs 
and improvements of the State canals from 
Harrisburg to Wilkes-Barre and stationed at 
Northumberland, remaining there two years, 
when the Legislature refused any appropri- 
ation for the continued employment of en- 
gineers. Mr. Wierman then repaired to his 
father's farm in Adams county and engaged 
in the business of raising and selling fruit 
trees. 

In 1846 he was employed as agent for the 
State to stake out and superintend the con- 
struction of the eastern reservoir of the 
canal near Hollidaysburg. In 1847 he was 
engaged on the construction of a section of 
the Pennsylvania railroad passing Duncan- 
non, and completed it in 1849, when he 
moved to Lewistown, remaining for a period 
in charge of the track laying of the section 
extending to Huntingdon. In 1850 he re- 
turned to employment under the State as 
principal assistant engineer to complete the 
construction of the North Branch canal, 
under Wm. B. Foster, chief engineer, and 
thereafter was employed on a topographical 
survey of Long Island for the water supply 
of the city of Brooklyn. Thence to the 
Huntingdon and Broad Top railroad as 
superintendent. 

The following notice appeared in a Har- 



risburg newspaper, August 7, 1887 : " Mr- 
Thomas T. Wierman, chief engineer of the 
Pennsylvania Canal Company, died on Tues- 
day, in his seventy-fourth year, at his resi- 
dence, 116 Pine street, this city. Deceased 
had been suffering for several weeks from 
an affection of the kidneys and his death 
was not unexpected. 

" Mr. Wierman was born near Gettysburg, 
in Adams county, and learned the profession 
of civil engineering. In that capacity he 
became interested in many important public 
improvements in this State and did much 
toward their successful advancement. His 
first service as civil engineer was on the 
original construction of the Pennsylvania 
railroad, and subsequently on the construc- 
tion of the North Branch canal from Pitts- 
ton to the State line of the State of New 
York. He afterwards constructed, as chief 
engineer, the Chemung canal, which con- 
nected the water improvements of Pennsyl- 
vania with the New York State canals. 
After that he built the Barclay railroad, 
running from Towanda, Bradford county, to 
the vast bituminous coal fields in that 
county. He also made the original survey 
for the Brooklyn water works. Mr. Wier- 
man took charge of the Pennsylvania canal 
about the year 1857, being stationed at 
Huntingdon. While engaged in the con- 
struction of the North Branch canal he met 
the esteemed lady who afterwards became 
his wife, and who still survives him. She 
is Emily, the sister of Hon. Victor E. Piollet 
and Joseph Piollet, of Wysox, Bradford 
county. In 1859 the headquarters of the 
canal compai^ was removed to this city, 
and Mr. Wierman from that time until his 
death continued in charge of the extensive 
business. These children, five in number, 
survive him: Thos. T. Wierman, Jr., Victor 
P. Wierman, Mrs. S. S. Mitchell, of Buffalo, 
Mrs. T. N. Ely, of Altoona, and Miss Sarah 
Wierman. He was a member of the Society 
of Friends, and adhered to that religious 
belief throughout his life. 

"The death of Thomas T. Wierman re- 
moves from the field of action one who was 
interested almost from their infancy in the 
public improvements in this State, and by 
his industry and efficiency as civil engineer, 
together witli Ids great executive ability, 
had added largely to the development and 
prosperity of his native State. He was a 
man of the strictest probity, cultured and 
companionable when among friends and 



296 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENGYGL OPEDIA 



never harsh, and attached to the enjoyment 
of his happy home life. He was affable to 
his employes, though demanding of them 
that honest attention to duty which so 
markedly characterized him. By reason- 
able frugality he amassed a considerable for- 
tune, and was fond of recounting how, hav- 
ing at an early age saved $100, it was stolen 
from him by a thief while passing through 
a crowd near the Jones House, hi this city. 
He had a kindly manner and a strong, yet 
pleasing countenance, which is well repre- 
sented in the accurate portrait presented in 
this issue, and engraved for the Telegram." 

Shoemaker, George J., was born in Har- 
risburg, Pa., March 20, 1813, son of Jacob 
and Anna (Rhoads) Shoemaker. Samuel 
Rhoads, his maternal grandfather, was born 
in Dauphin county, February 25, 1738. He 
kept a hotel in Harrisburg for a number of 
years; was sheriff of Dauphin county, and 
was for several years a member of the Legis- 
lature. His wife, Mrs. Rosanna Rhoads, 
was born January 30, 1754. They resided 
after marriage in the eastern part of the 
State for a number of years and removed to 
Harrisburg near 1800. Mr. Rhoads died 
September 25, 1786, aged forty-eight years 
and seven months. His wife died May 19, 
1838, at the age of eighty-four years, three 
months and twenty days. Their children 
were John and Anna, the former born De- 
cember 30, 1775, and the latter March 15, 
1779. John Rhoads never married. For a 
number of years he was manager of a fur- 
nace in Huntingdon county. Some time 
after 1800 he settled permanently in Harris- 
burg, and in partnership with John Candor 
conducted a dry goods and grocery store, in 
which business he continued until his death, 
April 12, 1859; his age at that time was 
eighty-three years, three months and eigh- 
teen days. His sister, Anna Rhoads, was 
married to Jacob Shoemaker about the year 
1807. 

Jacob Shoemaker was born in New Jer- 
sey and came to Dauphin county in 1800. 
Jacob and Anna (Rhoads) Shoemaker had 
three sons: Samuel R., born June 29, 1810, 
George J. and John J., born April 19, 1816. 
Samuel R. Shoemaker died in 1831, aged 
nineteen, and John J. in 1888, at the age of 
seventy-two years. Mr. Jacob Shoemaker's 
trade was that of a hatter, which he fol- 
lowed for many years after his marriage. 
He purchased a vacant lot of ground in 



1808 and built a frame house at what is 
now No. 30 North Second street. Mr. Shoe- 
maker filled various city offices, and died in 
June, 1847, his wife having departed before 
him, on March 1, 1841. 

George J. Shoemaker, only surviving son 
of Jacob Shoemaker, attended the city 
schools, and completed his education in the 
Harrisburg Academy. At twelve years of 
age he was employed as clerk in the store 
of Mr. John Rhoads, and remained with 
him five years; after which he was clerk for 
Mr. John Candor for a short time. In 1832 
he was employed as clerk for Mr. Moore, of 
Hollidaysburg, Pa., for a few months ; from 
that place he went to Pittsburgh, Pa., and re- 
turned to Harrisburg in the same year. 

In 1834 Mr. Shoemaker went to Phila- 
delphia to buy goods, and on the return 
trip, met with an accident on this side of 
the Schuylkill river which seriously disabled 
him. He was in the hospital for four days, 
after which he was removed to the Red Lion 
Hotel, where he. was confined ten weeks. 
His recovery was so slow that it was about 
a year before he was able to resume busi- 
ness. In 1836 he was for one year clerk in 
the works at Schuylkill Forge, and then 
again returned to Harrisburg. During the 
remainder of Mr. Shoemaker's business life, 
thus far, he has been much of the time em- 
ployed in clerical positions. In 1840 he 
was elected town clerk, and served five suc- 
cessive years. He served one year as clerk 
of the county commissioners, and was at 
one time connected in this capacity with the 
Supreme Court. He was for a short time a 
member of the city councils, and filled the 
position of deputy sheriff for three years. 
Mr. Shoemaker is one of the oldest members 
of the Harrisburg Beneficial Society. In 
the year 1860 Mr. Shoemaker became the 
owner of all the lots of ground from his 
father's original purchase up to Walnut 
street, and built thereon four three-story 
brick houses, in one of which he now resides. 

Mr. Shoemaker was first married, in 1837, 
to Elizabeth D. Allen, of Strasburg, Lancaster 
county, Pa. They had five children. Anna 
R., their first-born, was married to George 
Evans, of Pottsville, Schuylkill county, Pa., 
and is now the only survivor, in her fifty- 
ninth year. The deceased children are 
Matilda, George, Ellen, and John; the last- 
named died in 1860, aged thirteen, while at- 
tending college. Mr. Shoemaker's second 
marriage took place in December, 1850 ; his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



297 



wife was Catharine, daughter of George and 
Catharine (Rahm) Eichholtz. They had 
four children : Maria, wife of D. A. Weid- 
mann, of New York ; Rose, wife of L. K. 
Scheffer, of Harrisburg ; Louis C, book- 
binder, Harrisburg; George E., a prominent 
physician at St. Louis, Mo., who traveled 
through Panama, and returned by way of 
New York; he died July 20, 1889, aged 
thirty-four. Mr. Shoemaker is a sound con- 
servative Democrat, and stands by President 
Cleveland with loyal support. The family 
are members of the Lutheran church. 

Mrs. Caiharine Shoemaker was born De- 
cember 1, 1821. Her father, George Eich- 
holtz, was a native of Lancaster count}', and 
was a cabinetmaker. He came to Harris- 
burg, and became clerk in the secretary's' 
office, spending the remainder of his life in 
this city. His wife, Catharine, was the 
daughter of Melchiorand Mary (King) Rahm. 
Melchior Rahm kept the Franklin House, 
on Walnut street, for a number of years; he 
was elected sheriff, and was a member of the 
Legislature for the county of Dauphin. The 
children of Mr. and Mrs. George Eichholtz 
are: Catharine (Mrs. Shoemaker); Cecilia, 
died in April, 1896, aged thirty years, wife 
of Sobieski Keen ; Edwin, died at the age of 
four years; George, died in 1853. The 
mother died in 1822, aged twenty-six. Mr. 
Eichholtz married a second time in 1830, 
Miss Maria Lebaron. Their children are: 
Annie, wife of Augustus Moltz ; Maria, wife 
of James McClintock; Lebaron, died in 
childhood. Both parents are now deceased ; 
Mr. Eichholtz died in 1858, at the age of 
eighty-five. 



Ott, Leander N., was born February 11, 
1814, in Harrisburg. His grandfather, John 
Nicholas Ott, came to Pennsylvania prior to 
the war of the Revolution. During the 
struggle for independence he was in active 
service. After the town of Harrisburg was 
laid out he removed there and entered into 
business. He at one time kept the ferry. 
His son John Nicholas married, August 13, 
1805, Margaret Kissecker, of Cumberland 
county. Nicholas Ott, the younger, died 
suddenly November 5, 1832, near Womels- 
dorf where he was buried, but subsequently 
was disinterred and brought to Harrisburg. 
His age was fifty years. His wife Margaret 
died April, 1823, aged thirty-six years. 
Leander N. Ott was the third child of his 
parents, and was left an orphan at a very 



early age. He received an ordinary school 
education up to the time of his father's 
death, when he learned the trade of saddlery. 
He, however, took a partial course at Jef- 
ferson College, beginning in the spring of 
1834, where lie remained two years, devoting 
his time chiefly to mathematical studies. 
In 1837 Mr. Ott entered the service of the 
State, in the engineer corps under General 
DeHaas, and was employed in the survey 
from Lewistown to Pittsburgh, over the 
Allegheny mountains, made with a view of 
avoiding the inclined planes at Hollidays- 
burg, the then terminus to the eastern di- 
vision of the Pennsylvania canal, and con- 
necting with the internal improvements on 
the western side of the mountain. He was 
also employed upon a similar survey from 
Philadelphia to Downingtown and along the 
Brandywine under John T. Bailey, chief 
engineer. Under him he was engaged on 
the Wiconisco canal, and other public works, 
until the beginning of Governor Porter's 
administration, when he resigned. Mr. Ott 
completed the study of the law which he had 
been pursuing for some time under William 
McClure, Esq., of Harrisburg, and was ad- 
mitted to the bar of Dauphin county April 
27, 1840. In 1846 he was compelled -to 
leave the practice of the law for an occupa- 
tion which would give him more out-of- 
door exercise. He then entered the saw-mill 
business at Harrisburg with his brother-in- 
law, Capt. Jacob Dock. They were chiefly 
engaged in manufacturing ship building 
lumber for the Philadelphia and New York 
markets; and when in 1850 it was found 
advisable to confine their business to the 
Delaware, he removed to Camdem, N. J., 
where it was carried on until the latter part 
of 1859. In I860 Mr. Ott returned to Har- 
risburg, in 1861 purchasing his present resi- 
dence, situated in Susquehanna township. 
For sometime during the early portion of 
the war he was connected with the military 
department, and did good service for his 
country. From that period until the pres- 
ent time Colonel Ott has devoted most of his 
attention to fanning. Country life has 
proved of great benefit to him, and. although 
in his eighty-third year, he frequently enjoys 
horsebackexerci.su. Mr. Ott married Caro- 
line Heisely, daughter of the late George J. 
Heisely, of Harrisburg. Of their children, 
the representative member of the family is 
Capt. Frederick M. < >tt, a prominent lawyer 
of the Dauphin county bar. 



298 



BIO GRA PHI A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Rudy, Joseph, retired, residence at Derry 
and Nineteenth streets, Harrisburg, Pa., was 
born in Susquehanna township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., May 5, 1818. He is a son of 
Frederick and Elizabeth (Layman) Rudy. 
The Rudy family are of German extraction ; 
the grandfather Rudy settled in Lebanon 
county, near the site of the borough of 
Jonestown, at a very early date in the his- 
tory of that county. 

Frederick Rudy, the father of Joseph 
Rudy, was born in Lebanon county. He 
removed to Susquehanna township, Dauphin 
county, where he was engaged in farming 
and distilling. Here he spent the greater 
part of his life ; here he passed awaj r , in 
1855, and his body lies interred in theShoop 
church cemetery. Both Mr. Rudy and his 
faithful partner through life attained to a 
good old age; Frederick having reached the 
age of eighty-two, and his wife, who died in 
1857, that of eighty-four years. Of the ten 
children who constituted their family, two 
died in childhood; seven lived to mature 
years, but Joseph Rudy is now the only sur- 
vivor. 

Mr. Joseph Rudy was married in Lebanon, 
Pa., September 25, 1843, to Hettie, daughter 
of Abram and Frances Landis, of Spring 
Creek, Lebanon county, They had ten 
children, two are deceased, one that died in 
infancy, and Elizabeth, wife of Benjamin 
Strickler. Those who survive are: John, a 
farmer, residing in Lower Paxton township; 
Frances, wife of Reuben Althouse, of Harris- 
burg; Joseph, residing in Harrisburg; 
Sarah, wife of S. W. Trullinger, a prom- 
inent farmer of Susquehanna township; 
Hettie, widow of David Hocker; C. Landis; 
Mary, wife of George Hain, of Harrisburg, 
and Abraham, residing in Philadelphia. 
Mrs. Hettie Rudy died September 7, 1871. 
On February 4, 1872, Mr. Rudy was again 
united in marriage, at Harrisburg, to Bar- 
bara Mumma, widow of John Mamma, and 
daughter of John and Susan (NissleyjMumma. 
They had one son, Jonas M., born May 21, 
1875 ; he is now a stenographer and type- 
wiiter. Mr. Rudy is a good, staunch Re- 
publican. The family attend the Reformed 
church. 



Kelker, Rudolph Frederick, son of 
Frederick and Catharine (Fager) Kelker, 
was born February 17, 1820, at Harrisburg, 
Pa. In March, 1835, he entered the 
hardware store of Oglesby & Hinckley, 



successors of Oglesby & Pool, who were suc- 
cessors to his father, to learn the business 
and continued with them until May, 1838, 
when, owing to delicate health, he left the 
establishment and gave attention to the im- 
provement of his father's lands in the vicin- 
ity of Harrisburg. On November 18, 1842, 
he purchased the interest of Mr. Hinckley 
and carried on the hardware business with 
his partner, Mr. Oglesby, until the death of 
the latter, March 21, 1846. He continued 
the business alone until May following, 
when he associated with him his two broth- 
ers, and conducted the same under the firm 
name of Kelker & Brothers, remaining in 
business until May 14, 1851, when on account 
of failing health he retired from mercantile 
pursuits. In 1852 he was elected a director 
of the Harrisburg Bank, in which institution 
he has served for a number of triennial 
terms. For several years he was a director 
of the First National Bank, and a manager 
of the Harrisburg cemetery. In the corpo- 
ration of Harrisburg as a city, he was ap- 
pointed with seven other citizens, by the 
Legislature, on the commission to lay out 
the streets and avenues necessary in the 
new territory included within its limits. 
From 1854 until 1891 he served as a trustee 
of the Harrisburg Academy, and was for a 
long time its secretary and treasurer. From 
1866 to 1872 Mr, Kelker was one of the di- 
rectors of the poor for the county of Dau- 
phin, and through his instrumentality proper 
legislation was secured, new additional 
buildings erected and such improvements 
made in the general management of the 
almshouse as greatly alleviated the condi- 
tion of the unfortunate inmates. He was 
one of the founders of the City Hospital, a 
manager from its organization in 1873 until 
1889; from March, 1878, until his resigna- 
tion, its treasurer, and was on the committee 
to superintend the construction of the new 
building erected in 1883-4. In 1873 and 
1874 he was one of the trustees of the Penn- 
sylvania Lunatic Hospital at Harrisburg, 
and at the organization of the Harrisburg 
City Passenger Railway Company, in 1874, 
was made a director, and was treasurer from 
November 2, 1874, to May, 1891, when he 
resigned because the company began to run 
their cars on the Lord's Day. Apart from 
these active duties of citizen life, Mr. Kel- 
ker's labors in the Reformed church, of which 
he is a prominent member, it is here deemed 
proper to summarize. His parents were 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



299 



also members of the Reformed church* and 
on April 27, 1823, he was enrolled as a 
scholar in the Sunday school. December 27, 
1835, he was confirmed by Rev. J. F. Berg, 
D. D., as a member of the church ; a deacon 
of the church from 1841 to 1849, an elder in 
the same from 1849 to 1875, excepting the 
year 1867, and since May, 1883, has filled 
the same position. From October, 1836, un- 
til April 29, 1850, he served as a teacher, 
and from the latter date until Januar3 r , 1870, 
as superintendent of the Sunday-school, 
when at the request of the consistory of the 
church, he took charge of an adult Bible 
class, which, during the first year increased 
from twelve to ninety members and at the 
close of December, 1874, it numbered one 
hundred and sixty-one, when the class was 
assigned by the consistory to the pastor of 
the church on account of Mr. Kelker's anti- 
ritualistic views. Being thus relieved of his 
work in the Sabbath-school he accepted an 
invitation to organize and take charge of an 
adult Bible class of both sexes, to be com- 
posed of persons of all denominations as 
well as those who had no church relation, 
which organization was effected under the 
name of the "Salem Bible Class of Iiarris- 
burg," which now has a large membership 
and has had connected with it during its 
existence more than nine hundred persons. 
The class is incorporated, has a valuable 
library and for the last twenty-three years 
has been one of the established religious in- 
stitutions of the city. For many years Mr. 
Kelker was one of the vice-presidents of the 
Pennsylvania State Sabbath-school Asso- 
ciation and has been for a number of years 
one of the vice-presidents of the board of 
managers of the American Sunday-school 
Union, and of the American Tract Society. 
In 1845 Mr. Kelker was elected a trustee 
of Marshall College, Mercersburg, and sub- 
sequently, until 1869, a corporate trustee 
after its union with Franklin College of 
Lancaster, as Franklin and Marshall Col- 
lege. The Eastern Synod of the Reformed 
Church was incorporated in 1859, and he 
was one of the five trustees named in the 
charter and the first president of the board, 
and subsequently for a number of years 
treasurer of the same. Since 1863, with the 
exception of three years, up to October, 1890, 
he served as treasurer of the board of for- 
eign missions of the General Synod of the 
Reformed Church. He was a member of the 
synodical committee to prepare the " Trig- 



lott Tercentenary Heidelberg Catechism," 
published in 1863, but dissented from the 
final action of that body, believing that 
many changes made in the new English 
translation were wholly unwarranted and 
uncalled for. He repeatedly represented his 
congregation in Classis, and the Classis as 
delegate to the Synod. He was a member 
of the Synod of York in 1866, and made 
powerful opposition to the adoption and 
reference of the " New Order of Worship " 
to the General Synod. In 1867, with others, 
he united in a call for a convention of two 
hundred and twenty-five ministers and eld- 
ers of the Eastern Stynod, which assembled 
at Myerstown, Pa., to protest against the 
"Order of Worship," as being contrary to 
the doctrines and cultus of the Reformed 
Church. One of the results of this move- 
ment was the establishment, in 1869, of 
Ursinus College, at Freeland, Montgomery 
county, Pa., under the presidency of Rev. J. 
H. A. Bomberger, D. D, with a university 
charter, thus enabling the institution to 
teach theology as well as the classics. In 
1879 Mr. Kelker served as a member of the 
" Peace Commission," a body consisting of 
twelve ministers and twelve elders, chosen 
by direction of the General Synod of the Re- 
formed Church of the United States by the 
several District Synods to assemble at Har- 
risburg, Pa., and adjust the differences ex- 
isting in the church in doctrine, cultus and 
government. After eight days' discussion a 
basis of union was unanimously adopted, 
and a new era in the history of the church 
was opened up, which brought peace and 
harmony. The work of the commission 
was unanimously approved by the General 
Synod and the same persons were at once 
appointed by it to prepare an " Order of 
Worship " for the denomination suited to 
its wants and evangelical in its character, 
which work was accomplished in 1884, and 
was constitutionally adopted as the Direc- 
tory of Worship of the Reformed Church in 
the United States. 

In June, 1839, at his suggestion, the Sun- 
day-school teachers of Harrisburg founded 
the Harrisburg Sunday-school Union, of 
which he was the first secretary, and upon 
its reorganization, in 1854, was chosen presi- 
dent thereof. He was one of the founders of 
the Young Men's Christian Association, in 
December, 1854, and president of the same 
in 1856. Mr. Kelker lias likewise been deeply 
interested in the temperance work. In 1S37 



300 



BI GRA PHIGA L ENCYCL OP EDI A 



at the suggestion of, and in connection with 
an intimate friend, James Cowden, they 
started the first total abstinence society in 
Harrisburg, as previous to this date the tem- 
perance organizations allowed the use of malt 
and vinous liquors. In 1840 he took a prom- 
inent part in the Washington temperance 
movement, and has often represented the 
cause in State conventions. Since their or- 
ganization he has been the chairman of the 
executive committee appointed by the Chris- 
tian citizens of Harrisburg a number of years 
ago, to watch the applications for license, so 
as to prevent improper persons from obtain- 
ing the same, and to require all engaged in 
the liquor traffic to conform to the provisions 
of the license laws. As foreman of the grand 
jury of the county in 1871, 1873 and 1879, 
he made presentment of the license law as a 
public nuisance, and gave valuable statistics 
on the subject which attracted great atten- 
tion. The report of 1873 was widely circu- 
lated, more than fifty thousand copies being 
printed by the friends of the temperance 
cause. In accordance with the suggestions 
of this report almost one-half of the applica- 
tions for that year for hotel and saloon liquor 
license were refused by the court. Mr. Kel- 
ker married, June 17, 1844, Mary Anne, 
daughter of Gen. William Reily, and their 
children were Frederick, Luther Reily, Ru- 
dolph Frederick, and William Anthony, of 
whom the second and fourth are living. 
Mrs. Kelker entered into rest August 27, 1890. 



Greenawalt, Maj. Theodore D., was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa., December 11, 1820. 
He is a son of Jacob and Catherine (Jvrause) 
Greenawalt. His great-grandfather, Philip 
Lorentz Greenawalt, was born in Germany 
in 1725, came to America in 1749, settled at 
Ephrata, Lancaster county, Pa., and engaged 
in farming and hotel keeping. He partici- 
pated in the Revolutionary war, held the 
commission of colonel, and was witli Wash- 
ington at Brandy wine, Germantown, Trenton, 
Princeton, and in other engagements. He 
was commissioned by Thomas Wharton, Jr., 
as colonel of the First battalion of Lancaster 
county, of which he was placed in command. 
He was appointed by Governor Mifflin, in 
connection with Colonels Green, Burd and 
Grubb, as a commission to devise ways and 
means to bring the war to a successful 
termination. 

After the close of the war he settled at 
Lancaster, and kept a hotel. He was identi- 



fied with many successful business enterprises 
and accumulated a large amount of property. 
He died in Lebanon, Pa., in 1802. He was 
a prominent member of the German Re- 
formed Church. He first married a Miss 
Uhland. His second wife was Miss Margaret 
Foesser, of Lebanon, by whom he had eleven 
children: John Philip, Christian, married 
Elizabeth Kelker, John, Elizabeth, married 
Henry Kelker, Margaret, married Philip 
Stoehr, Matthias, married Annie Barbara 
Hetrick, Jacob, of Hummelstown, Catherine, 
married John Jacob Zinn, Leonard, a tan- 
ner, of Lebanon count}', married Catherine 
Pool, and two, Michael and Maria M., who 
died in infancy. 

John Philip Greenawalt, grandfather of 
Major Greenawalt, was a soldier in the war 
of the Revolution, and was commissioned 
first lieutenant. After the war he became a 
hotel keeper at Lebanon. He was a mem- 
ber of the German Reformed church. His 
children were: John Philip, died at the age 
of two years; Jacob; John Philip (2), de- 
ceased, a carpenter, worked on the State 
capitol ; Matthias, deceased; John, married 
Ann Brown ; Charles, who conducted a hard- 
ware business in Lebanon for several years, 
married Mary Ann Shaffner; Elizabeth, de- 
ceased, married Daniel Frantz, of Lebanon ; 
Catharine, deceased, married Rev. Henry 
Shaffer, of Marietta, Pa., and Lydia, married 
Benjamin Stees and located in St. Paul, 
Minn. 

Jacob Greenawalt, father of Maj. Theodore 
D., was born in Lebanon county in 1784. 
He was educated, as usual, in the schools of 
that period, both in German and in English. 
He came to Harrisburg in 1811, and estab- 
lished a tanner}', which he conducted until 
his death in 1854. He learned his trade 
from his uncle, Mr. Shaffner, in Hagerstown, 
Md. He carried on a large business, and 
had the reputation of making the best 
leather shipped to the Philadelphia market. 
He was a stockholder in the Harrisburg 
Bank. He was drafted for service in the 
war of 1812, but on account of sickness was 
unable to serve, and sent a substitute. Mr. 
Greenawalt took a pew in the Chestnut 
street German Reformed church in 1821, 
and retained it until Ins death. Pie took an 
active interest in all church work. His wife, 
Catherine Krause, was a daughter of David 
Krause, associate judge of Lebanon county, 
and a sister of Judge Krause, of Norristown, 
who, with his brother John, were members 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



301 



of the Pennsylvania Legislature at the same 
time. They had eight children: Louisa, de- 
ceased, married Philip Fisher, of Jonestown, 
Lebanon county, a tanner and ex-sheriff of 
the county; Elizabeth, a maiden lady, of 
Harrisburg; Theophilus, died in 1SG0, a 
tanner and currier; Camilla, died at three 
years of age; Theodore D.; Regina C, mar- 
ried William Calder, of Harrisburg; Jacob 
and Jeremiah K., both of Harrisburg. 

Theodore D. Greenawalt was educated in 
the subscription schools, and remained with 
his father until he was seventeen years of 
age. At this time he was employed as clerk 
by Philip Wo.lfersberger. He was to receive 
a salary of one hundred dollars per annum, 
and pay all his own expenses. He worked 
under this contract for fifteen months, and 
then found employment with Dock & Hum- 
mel, with whom he remained one year. He 
was clerk also for Van Horn & Meredith. 
In 1S44 he embarked in the dry goods and 
grocery business for himself, which he con- 
ducted for three years. He then acted as 
clerk at the Coverly Hotel until 1849, when 
he entered the office of William Calder, in 
the stage line and packet boat business, and 
remained with him thirteen years. When 
the Prince of Wales, on his tour through 
America, visited Harrisburg, Mr. Greena- 
walt, as manager of the transfer business, 
had the honor of escorting Lord Lyons and 
the Prince over the capital city. And when 
Abraham Lincoln stopped in Harrisburg on 
his way to Washington City to be inaugu- 
rated President of the United States, Mr. 
Greenawalt assisted Mr. Calder in conveying 
the President-elect secretly from his hotel to 
a train of cars which Hon. Thomas Scott 
had on the track a mile south of the city. 
During the day Mr. Calder received a tele- 
gram from John S. Giddings, the banker, of 
Baltimore, containing the words, "In no 
wise permit President Lincoln to go to 
Washington by way of York or Baltimore." 
Acting on this advice Mr. Calder ordered 
Mr. Greenawalt to bring out a trusty team, 
which Mr. Calder himself drove with the 
President to the train, so quietly that not 
even Mr. Lincoln's family, left by him at 
the supper table, knew of his departure 
under fear of danger. 

At the breaking out of the war, or in May, 
1861, Mr. Greenawalt turned the key in the 
office door, and enlisted as private for three 
months under Capt. Henry McCormick. 
(He already held the commission of brigade 



major, with the rank of captain, for the 
counties of Dauphin, Lebanon and Berks, in 
the State militia.) At the end of the three 
months' service, he was appointed by Gen. 
Simon Cameron as assistant to Major Alli- 
son, in the paymaster's office ; and on No- 
vember 26, 1862, he was appointed pay- 
master. His first duties in this position 
were with the Army of the Potomac, in and 
around Washington. He was then trans- 
ferred to the department of the Mississippi, 
with headquarters at St. Louis, Mo., and 
with payments at Vicksburg, Miss. In this 
assignment he served fifteen months. The 
boat in which he made his first trip down 
the river was loaded at St. Louis with Gov- 
ernment supplies, including §3,000,000, 
which Major Greenawalt was to distribute 
among the soldiers. On the arrival of the 
boat at Cairo, 111., the Captain announced 
that it would lie over for six hours. Major 
Greenawalt concluded to take a walk through 
the town. Passing along the street, he met 
his next door neighbor, Theodore Adams, 
who was waiting for a boat en route for St. 
Louis. He and Mr. Adams enjoyed a long 
chat. At last the Major, finding that it was 
about time for his boat to leave, went to the 
wharf, and was surprised to learn that it was 
already gone, another boat having arrived. 
Mr. Greenawalt took the next boat down the 
river, and while on the way, passed the boat 
which had left him behind, and which was 
on fire. He did not know at the time that 
it was the boat containing his effects, the 
Government money, and his nephew and as- 
sistant, Theodore Fisher, who, with fifty-two 
other persons, lost his life by this fire, the 
work of an incendiary. Major Greenawalt 
was next assigned to the department of the 
Gulf, with headquarters at New Orleans, 
and payments at Brownsville, Natchez, 
Baton Rouge and other points. In May, 
1863, at Camp Gray, D. C, he was presented 
with a silver cup by the officers of the Sixth 
Michigan cavalry. He was mustered out of 
service November 15, 1S65. During Major 
Greenawalt's service as paymaster he had 
disbursed, with the assistance of his clerk 
only, the sum of §3,564,289.42. He holds a 
receipt from the paymaster general and the 
Secretary of War, stating that the United 
States had no claim against him. He re- 
ceived the appointment after the war of 
deputy U. S. marshal for the counties of 
Dauphin, Union. Snyder, Juniata, North- 
umberland, and part of Lancaster county. 



302 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



The war being ended, Major Greenawalt 
returned to Harrisburg, where he has since 
been connected with many important enter- 
prises. He is president of the Harrisburg 
Car Manufacturing Company and of the 
Chestnut Street Market Company. Of the 
former he is one of the heaviest stockholders, 
and has been connected with the company 
since 1866; of the latter company he was 
among the organizers. He is vice-president 
of the Harrisburg Foundry and Machine 
Works, and of the East Harrisburg Passenger 
Railway Company. He is a member of the 
boards of directors of the following organiza- 
tions: Lebanon Gas Company, First Na- 
tional Bank of Harrisburg, Commonwealth 
Guarantee Trust and Safe Deposit Company, 
People's Gas and Gaseous Fuel Company 
of Harrisburg, Harrisburg Traction Com- 
pany, Harrisburg Steam Heat and Power 
Company, Harrisburg Burial Case Company, 
and Harrisburg Furniture Manufacturing 
Company. In 1848 he became a stockholder 
in the first telegraph company, called the 
Atlantic and Ohio Telegraph Company. 
For thirteen years he was a member, with 
Jacob and Jeremiah K. Greenawalt, of the 
firm of Greenawalt Bros., in the tannery 
business. He has dealt largely in real estate, 
and has been running two fine farms in 
Dauphin county since 1870. 

Major Greenawalt is a Republican, but is 
not an active politician, and never aspires to 
office. He is a member of Post No. 58, G. 
A. R. He was treasurer of the Soldiers' 
Monument subscription fund, and took an 
active interest in that worthy tribute to the 
memory of his comrades. He was also treas- 
urer of the Dauphin County Centennial Cele- 
bration fund, in 1885. Major Greenawalt 
attends the Reformed church, retaining the 
pew so long occupied by his father. He is a 
genial gentlemen, and is held in the highest 
esteem by his neighbors and acquaintances. 



Kelker, Immanuel Meister, deceased, 
was born May 21, 1822, in Harrisburg, Pa., 
son of Frederick and Catharine (Fager) Kel- 
ker. He was educated in the schools of 
Harrisburg and spent one year in the pre- 
paratory department of Marshall College, 
after which he entered the dry goods store of 
John C. Bucher & Co., of Harrisburg, to 
learn the mercantile business. In May, 
1846, he embarked in the hardware business 
with his two brothers, Rudolph F. and 
Henry A. Kelker, under the firm name of 



Kelker & Bros., and remained actively en- 
gaged in the business until his death, March 
30, 1880. The business was done from May, 
1846, to May, 1851, under the firm name of 
Kelker & Bros., and from May, 1851, to 
April, 1878, as Immanuel M. & Henry A. 
Kelker, under the firm name of Kelker & 
Bro. At the latter date George B. and Fred- 
erick, sons of Immanuel Kelker, were asso- 
ciated in the business under the firm name 
of Kelker & Sons. 

Mr. Kelker was a confirmed member of 
the Reformed Salem church, of Harrisburg. 
He entered the Sunday-school in early 
childhood and continued through life a very 
active and liberal supporter in the cause. 
He taught for many years in the Sunday- 
school of the Salem church and assisted by 
personal labor and most liberal donations in 
the establishment of the Mission Sunday- 
school, from which sprang the Second Re- 
formed church, of Harrisburg. In his own 
church he served as deacon for many years, 
and from the time of the organization of 
the Second church, to which he subscribed 
liberally, his efforts were mainly for its wel- 
fare, having acted as superintendent of one 
department of the Sunday-school. Mr. Kel- 
ker was a firm and consistent advocate of 
temperance reform. He was a director of 
the Harrisburg National Bank for many 
years. His marriage occurred September 
21, 1847, with Mary Ann Jefferson, daughter 
of George Beatty and Sarah Smith (Shrom) 
Beatty, of Harrisburg. Their children are : 
Catharine, born October 24, 1849 ; George 
B., born January 9, 1852, married October 3, 
1878, to Louisa, daughter of Daniel and 
Catharine Dicker; Frederick, born Julv 28, 
1858, married May 11, 1882, to Annie'Ma- 
tilda, daughter of Thomas D. and Sarah 
(Zimmerman) Mahan, and has two chil- 
dren : Sarah V. and Thomas M. 



Hoyer, B. Franklin, was born in Hoges- 
town, Cumberland county, Pa., September 
14, 1823. He was educated in subscription 
schools ; he came to Harrisburg in 1834, 
and attended the private schools of William 
Mitchell and Samuel Cross. In 1839 he 
went to Clearspring, Washington county, 
Md., and learned the tinning business. 

In 1841 he married Miss Margaret Ann 
Kershner, of Clearspring, Md., daughter of 
Elias Kershner. He worked at his trade in 
Clearspring and in Hagerstown. for seven 
years. In 1847 he returned to Dauphin 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



303 



county, and located at Lock No. 9, where he 
resided for sixteen years, attending lock in 
the summer, and working at his trade in the 
winter. He then removed his family to 
Newmarket, York county, Pa., and estab- 
lished himself in business in New Cumber- 
land, Cumberland county, Pa.; in 1860 he 
removed his family to that place. 

In 1862 he enlisted in company H, One 
Hundred and Thirtieth Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, as private, and was promoted to 
corporal of his company. Mr. Hoyer served 
nine months, and was disabled at the battle 
of Antietam ; he took part in the battles 
of Antietam, Fredericksburg, Salem and 
Chancellorsville. He was honorably dis- 
charged from the army, and afterwards em- 
ployed for eighteen years by the Northern 
Central Railroad Company as watchman at 
the Yellow Breeches Creek bridge. In 1887 
he removed to Harrisburg, where he has 
since lived retired from active business. 

His first wife died April 23, 1882. They 
had four sons and two daughters : George, 
of the firm of Hoyer & Milnor, of Harris- 
burg, John, of Steelton, Charles, of Bridge- 
port, Pa., Frank, Jr., of New Cumberland, 
Mary E. (Mrs. David R. Hoffman), of Steel- 
ton, Kate A. (Mrs. H. D. Eisenberger), of 
New Cumberland. 

■ In 1883 he married his second wife, Mrs. 
Salome Snyder, daughter of John Shock, of 
Harrisburg. 

Mr. Hoyer is a Republican. He served as 
chief burgess and in the borough council 
and school board of New Cumberland. He 
belongs to Post 462, G. A. R., New Cumber- 
land. He and his wife are members of the 
United Brethren church. 



Thompson, James Baxter, was born in 
Carlisle, Cumberland county, Pa., Septem- 
ber 21, 1823. He is a son of Samuel and 
Letitia (Brown) Thompson, the grandfather 
Thompson and both parents having been 
born in Carlisle. The father of Mr. Thomp- 
son was a carpenter and spent the whole of 
his life in Cumberland county, where he 
died August 12, 1851, his wife surviving 
him until 1863. Their family consisted of 
eight children, of whom four survive: 
Thomas B., born April 3, 1812, residing at 
Carlisle, Pa., the oldest living settler 
of that town; Amelia, widow of the late 
Adam Crouse, born December 15, 1818, re- 
siding at Carlisle; Joseph G, born August 
18, 1820, residing at Carlisle, and James 



Baxter. The four other members of the 
family who have died are: Samuel, died 
aged nineteen ; William, aged seventy-six; 
Nancy, aged sixty-eight, and John," aged 
seventy-six. 

James Baxter was reared to manhood and 
received a limited education in his native 
town. He was apprenticed to the black- 
smith trade for three years, six months and 
eight days. Completing his apprenticeship, 
he removed to Harrisburg and continued to 
work at his trade until 1868, since which 
date he has been only occasionally employed 
at the business, of late years living a retired 
life. He was twice married; first at Harris- 
burg, in 1852, to Emily J. Black, daughter 
of Joseph and Elizabeth Black, a native of 
Harrisburg. Two children were born of 
this marriage, both of whom died in child- 
hood. Mrs. (Reily) Thompson, the present 
wife, was born in Myerstown, Lebanon 
county, Pa., March 7, 1829 (and first wife 
died in July, 1855). Mrs. Thompson's father, 
William Reily, died July 28, 1843; her 
mother, May 23, 1866. They had a family 
of sixteen children, three only of whom sur- 
vive, namely: John A., born September 20, 
1826; Mrs. Thompson, and Edward F., born 
January 8, 1835.. Mr. Thompson was mar- 
ried the second time at Harrisbmg, Novem- 
ber 26, 1857, to Martha M. Reily, daughter 
of William and Salome Reily. The Reily 
family settled in Lebanon county at a very 
early date, and removed to Harrisburg in 
1836, where they lived the rest of their lives. 
The father was a carpenter by trade, but 
spent his latter years in agricultural pur- 
suits. To this second marriage of Mr. 
Thompson there have been born five chil- 
dren, four of whom are living, namely: Edwin 
G, Harrisburg, Emily R., Harrisburg, James 
G, Harrisburg, William F., Philadelphia. 
In political views Mr. Thompson is a Repub- 
lican and an old-time abolitionist. The 
family attend the Reformed church. 



Reily, John A., retired, was born in 
Myerstown, Lebanon county, Pa., Septem- 
ber 20, 1826, and is a son of William and 
Saloma (Valentine) Reily. Mr. Reily may 
trace back his ancestral line with no appre- 
hension of finding anything but that which 
would be pleasant to discover, for in all his 
preceding generations here appeared men 
of character and mark. The fourth genera- 
tion preceding his own was headed by Peter 
Reily, of English ancestry, while next comes 



304 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Capt. John Reily, son of Peter, a soldier in 
the Revolution and a prominent lawyer, who 
practiced at the first court held in Dauphin 
county, followed in the next generation hy 
William Reily, his father. On his mother's 
side Mr. Reily finds the record just as favor- 
able and enviable, his great-grandfather, 
Michael Valentine, having for many years 
been a successful merchant and a prominent 
and honored citizen of Myerstown, Lebanon 
county, Fa. William Reily, the father of 
John A. Reily, having lost his father in his 
early childhood, found a good home with 
his uncle, Governor Heister, who cared for 
him and carefully looked after his training 
and instruction. His uncle wisely judged 
that, for a boy who had his own way to 
make in the world, a 'good trade is one of 
the best kind of preparations, hence he was 
put to learn the trade of carpenter, and ac- 
complished his apprenticeship in the usual 
time, subsequently following the occupation 
for some years. In the spring of 1836 Mr. 
Reily removed to Harrisburg, and became 
largely interested in agricultural pursuits, 
to which he gave most of his time until a 
short period before his death. Mr. Reily 
was advanced by his fellow-citizens to many 
prominent places of service, and trust. He 
represented Lebanon county in the State 
Legislature and served with ability and 
honor in several county offices. His prom- 
inence in military circles was no less marked. 
He served in the United States militia at 
Baltimore in 1814. Later in life he was 
made a brigade major, and at the time of 
his death was holding the rank of brigadier 
general. His career was an honorable and 
useful one, beginning in humble obscurity, 
advancing by easy and certain steps of pre- 
ferment and ending in prominence and dis- 
tinction by death, July 28, 1843, his worthy 
wife long surviving him, and dying May 
23, I860. They had sixteen children, and 
of this large family there are but three now 
living, John A., Martha, wife of James B. 
Thompson, and Frank, all of whom are re- 
siding in Flarrisburg. 

John A., when he was ten years of age, 
came with his parents to Harrisburg, and 
was here given all the educational advan- 
tages afforded by the city schools, of which 
he availed himself with industrious applica- 
tion. Although abundantly qualified for 
any of the learned professions or active 
branches of business, his inclinations and 
surroundings led in the direction of agricul- 



tural pursuits to which he has given his at- 
tention for the greater part of his active life. 
This city has been his residence for the whole 
of his life, with the exception of five years, 
spent at Minneapolis, Minn., and one year of 
service in the U. S. army during the war of 
the Rebellion. For a score or more of years 
Mr. Reily has been retired from the engage- 
ments and exacting requirements of active 
business, and has enjoyed the full quiet and 
comfort of home life. He was married in Har- 
risburg September 25, 1852, to Miss Catha- 
rine Olewine, daughter of George and Maria 
(Pifer) Olewine, her father being of French 
ancestry, and both parents natives of Berks 
county, Pa. Mrs. Reity was born in Cumber- 
land county, Pa., near Fairview, November 
7, 1S27, and when about seven years of age 
came with her parents to Dauphin county, 
where she spent her entire life. The children 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Reil\ r are : William 
P., a printer now in Cincinnati, George E., 
now holding a position in the Pension De- 
partment, Washington, Martha L., and John 
Franklin, who both died in childhood. Mr. 
Reily is a member of Cornplanter Tribe, I. 
0. R. M. In politics he is a Democrat. Both 
he and his wife are members of Christ. Lu- 
theran church, of Harrisburg. 



Lamberton, Robert Alexander, son of 
Robert Lamberton, and Mary Harkness 
Lamberton, his wife, was born December 6, 
1824, at Carlisle, Pa. He graduated from 
Dickinson College June, 1843, being vale- 
dictorian of the class. After teaching school 
two years he began the study of law in the 
office of James McCormick of Harrisburg 
and was admitted to the Dauphin county 
bar in August, 1848. He soon acquired a 
wide reputation as an able and conscientious 
jurist. On the breaking out of the Civil 
war Mr. Lamberton enlisted in the First 
regiment, Pennsylvania militia, of which he 
was commissioned lieutenant colonel. He 
served on Governor Curtin's staff at the time 
of Lee's invasion of the Cumberland Valley 
and Gettysburg, in 1863. In 1873 he was 
chosen a member of the Constitutional Con- 
vention as a delegate at large. In that dis- 
tinguished body his abilities had marked at- 
tention in the various discussions therein. 
He served on the committees on executive 
department, counties, townships, and bor- 
oughs. Mr. Lamberton took high rank in 
the Masonic fraternity and was Grand 
Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylva- 



-E= 




. 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



307 



nia from 1870 to 1871. He also served in 
the highest offices in the Odd Fellows, of 
which he was a very prominent member. ■ 
From 1871 for a period of twenty years, he 
served as secretary of the Diocesau Conven- 
tion of Central Pennsylvania. In 1880 the 
board of trustees of Lehigh University recog- 
nizing the executive ability and brilliant 
attainments of Mr. Lamberton offered him 
the presidency of that institution, which he 
accepted. The same year the University of 
Pennsylvania conferred upon him the degree 
of Doctor of Laws. Dr. Lamberton's labors 
as president of Lehigh University for the 
period of thirteen years were crowned with 
marked success — an everlasting monument 
to his fidelity and ability as an educator. 

Apart from his duties as president of the 
University, Dr. Lamberton was a director of 
the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company 
and trustee of estate of the late Asa Packer. 
He was also a trustee of the State Lunatic 
Hospital at Harrisburg, Pa., St. Luke's Hos- 
pital at South Bethlehem, and the Bishop 
Thorpe School for Young Ladies, and was a 
member of the Pennsylvania Society Sons 
of the Revolution. Dr. Lamberton died 
suddenly in the midst of his usefulness, at 
South Bethlehem, on the evening of the 1st 
of September, 1893. His remains were in- 
terred at Harrisburg. He married, September 
14, 1852, Annie, daughter of the late Will- 
iam Buehler, of Harrisburg. Their children 
who survived him were William E., a mem- 
ber of the Dauphin county bar; James M., 
master at St. Paul's School, Concord, N. H., 
and Nannie, wife of Rollin H. Wilbur, of 
the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company. 



Roberts, Alexander, Sr., son of Col. 
John and Mary H. (Chambers) Roberts, was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa. 

The Roberts family were among the very 
earliest settlers of this State. They were 
Welsh Quakers, and came to America with 
William Penn. The grandfather of Alex- 
ander Roberts settled in Dauphin county, 
where now stands the village of Rockville, 
before the Revolution, and when he was 
about thirty years of age. He was a worker 
in steel and iron, and a manufacturer of 
sickles; a most reputable man and a skillful 
mechanic. Here was born and here grew 
up his son John, father of Alexander. This 
son, after the death of his father, removed 
to Lancaster, Pa. ; after a residence of a tew 
years in that place he again removed to 
24 



Harrisburg, and practiced law there for 
many years. 

Col. John Roberts was admitted to the bar 
at the age of twenty-four years, on February 
5, 1812, and on November 14, 1812, was 
commissioned b} r the secretary of the Com- 
monwealth to notify the electors for Pres- 
ident, in the different counties of the State, 
at the re-election of President Madison. On 
October 19, 1813, he became a private in 
Capt. Thomas Walker's company, Harris- 
burg volunteers, which was composed of 
forty men. On August 1, 1814, he was 
elected and commissioned by Gov. Simon 
Snyder to be second lieutenant in the First 
brigade, Sixth division, Pennsylvania militia, 
from Dauphin, Lebanon, Berks and Schuyl- 
kill counties, for seven years. Also, on the 
same date, he was commissioned as first 
lieutenant of company Ten, First battalion, 
Ninety-eighth regiment, First brigade, Sixth 
division, Pennsylvania militia; and on Au- 
gust 1, 1814, was commissioned as first 
lieutenant of the Ninety-eighth regiment, 
Harrisburg volunteers, referred to above. 
The foregoing commissions were under the 
State organization. After the burning of 
Washington by the British, August 23,1814, 
the President issued a requisition on Gov- 
ernor Snyder for 10,000 militia. A number 
of uniformed volunteer companies, among 
which were the Harrisburg volunteers, 
tendered their services to the governor, and 
were accepted by him. The necessity of in- 
creasing the number of men in each com- 
pany, the dropping out of old members and 
the addition of new, caused a reorganiza- 
tion of the old volunteer companies, and in 
the new company, now increased to ninety- 
four men, John Roberts volunteered and was 
enrolled as private, and was, with the corn- 
pan} 7 , mustered into the service of the United 
States at York, Pa., August 29, 1814. A 
few days after, John M, Forster, orderly 
sergeant of the company, was appointed 
brigade major by Ins uncle, Gen. John For- 
ster, and John Roberts was appointed and 
took his place as orderly, and served in that 
capacity until the volunteers returned home, 
after their honorable discharge at Baltimore, 
December 3, 1814. 

John Roberts was first sergeant of First 
company, Captain Walker, of First battalion, 
Maj. G. B. Porter, of First regiment. Col. M. 
Kennedy, of First brigade, Gen. John For- 
ster, and of First division, Major General 
Watson, of Pennsylvania volunteers and 



308 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



militia. His regiment was composed of 
uniformed volunteers, except two companies 
of militia, one commanded by Captain Rose 
and the other by Capt. John Elder, brother- 
in-law to General Forster. At one time, the 
adjutant being absent, John Roberts was ap- 
pointed and acted temporarily as adjutant. 

" After the war was over," and he returned 
to the State, his services in a military ca- 
pacity were as follows: On August 3, 1821, 
he was commissioned \>y Gov. Joseph Hies- 
ter as major of First battalion, Ninety- 
eighth regiment, Pennsylvania militia, until 
August 3, 1828. But, on November 26, 
1825, there was probably a vacancy, and 
being duly elected and returned, Major 
Roberts was commissioned, by Gov. John A. 
Shulze, to be colonel of the Ninety-eighth 
regiment, Pennsylvania militia, to continue 
until August 3, 1828. That was probably 
the end of his military career. 

Among the men who went from Harris- 
burg as volunteers in the company were 
two brothers, by the names of Ferdinand 
and Charles Durang, who belonged to a the- 
atrical company then here. They were 
gentlemen, and were very popular. One of 
them had a fine voice, and was a good 
musician. While the regiment lay at Balti- 
more, the Star Spangled Banner was written 
by Key, but it was without music. Durang's 
friends urged him to set it to music and sing 
it. After looking over all the music he had 
or knew, to find something suitable, he 
adopted the tune now always used as most 
appropriate. Having tried it, to the de- 
light of his friends in the regiment, he in- 
troduced it one evening unexpectedly on 
the boards of the theatre, and the audience 
fairly raised the roof with their applause. 
Its popularity has never since been lost. In 
a selection of the old tunes published in 
" Blake's Evening Companion," by Blake, 
of Philadelphia, many years ago, it is called 
" Anacreon in Heaven, or the Battle of the 
Wabash." 

Col. John Roberts at the time of his death 
was the oldest member of the Dauphin 
county bar. He was a quiet, unassuming 
man, and very popular with all classes. He 
was a generous and earnest supporter of all 
schemes for the elevation of his fellow-men. 
His wife was Mary H. Chambers, a native 
of Trenton, N. J. They had eight children, 
of whom four are living : Alexander, Eliza, 
widow of Dr. James Given, Annie, wife of 
James Parvin, of Holton, Kan., and Cath- 



erine, wife of James H. Lowell, also of Hol- 
ton, Kan. 

Alexander Roberts received his education 
in the schools of Harrisburg, and began the 
study of law in his father's office. During 
the prosecution of his studies, he acted for a 
part of the time as chief clerk in the regis- 
ter's and recorder's office. He learned civil 
engineering and occupied himself in this 
business. He assisted in the survey of the 
Pennsjdvania railroad, and was connected 
with the construction of the Middle divis- 
ion and the Pittsburgh end of the Pittsburgh 
division. A large portion of his life was 
spent in the active work of this business, 
but of late years he has comparatively re- 
tired from it. He was married in Harris- 
burg to Charlotte Geiger, a daughter of 
Bernard Geiger, who was also among the 
jnoneers of Dauphin county. To them 
were born four sons: John, Alexander, Jr., 
James and George. Mrs. Roberts died in 
1862. Mr. Roberts was an active promoter 
of the Harrisburg street railway and still 
holds the position of secretary of the com- 
pany. He is also a director of the Harris- 
burg Burial Case Company and Harrisburg 
Furniture Company. He is identified 
closely with other industries and enterprises. 
He is a man of broad intelligence, sound 
judgment, marked ability and genial tem- 
perament. He is a connecting link between 
the active present and the historic past. 
With pleasant memories of primitive strug- 
gles he mingles the still more pleasing re- 
alizations of resulting success, as displayed 
in the growth of the community and the 
building of a great city. 



Day, William Howard, son of John Day 
(1783-1828) and Eliza Dixon (1793-1869), 
was born October 16, 1825, in the city of 
New York. He was educated in the public 
schools of his native city, in the private 
school of Rev. Frederick Jones, and prepared 
for college in the high school, Northampton, 
Mass., then in charge of Rev. Rudolphus B. 
Hubbard and Tutor Dwight, subsequently 
of Yale College. In 1843 he entered Oberlin 
College, graduating in 1847. He learned 
the art of printing in the Hampshire Gazette 
office at Northampton, and afterwards turned 
his attention to teaching and lecturing. In 
1850 he was elected by the colored citizens 
of Ohio, at a State conference, to plead their 
cause before the Ohio Constitutional Con- 
vention. From 1852 to 1855 he edited The 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



309 



Aliened American, at Cleveland, having pre- 
viously been local editor of the Cleveland True 
Democrat, now the Leader. In 1861 he was 
invited to take the lecture platform in Great 
Britain, and remained there particularly at 
the request of the American residents from 
the North to explain to the people of Eng- 
land the issues at stake in the great civil con- 
flict then transpiring in the United States. 
Returning to his native country he resumed 
his profession of teacher. In 1867 and 1868 
he was superintendent of schools in the dis- 
trict of Maryland and Delaware under the 
United States Government. During the 
incumbency of Gen. Harrison Allen as aud- 
itor general of Pennsylvania, 1872-75, he 
held a clerkship in the corporation depart- 
ment of that office. In 1868 Mr. Day was 
ordained an elder in the African Methodist 
Episcopal Zion connection, and in 1S75 and 
1878 was secretary of the General Conference 
of that body. He was the first person of 
color elected to the board of school control 
of the city of Harrisburg, serving from 1878 
almost continuously to the present. 



Kelker, Henry Anthony, youngest son 
of Frederick and Catharine Kelker, was born 
in Harrisburg, Pa., December 16, 1825. He 
was carefully trained and instructed at home, 
and was afforded all the advantages of the 
best primary schools in the borough. Later 
he was for several years in the Harrisburg 
Academy, then under the superintendence 
of Prof. Alfred Armstrong, and in Novem- 
ber, 1842, entered the preparatory depart- 
ment of Marshall College at Mercersburg, 
Pa. His careful instruction in the home 
schools and his diligent application enabled 
him to enter college in a short time, when 
he took the regular course of study until 
May, 1846. He then returned to Harris- 
burg to arrange for a partnership with his 
brothers in the hardware business at the old 
stand established by his father in 1805. 

After having consummated this object, he 
returned to college with the view of com- 
pleting the course and obtaining his degree, 
but was unexpectedly summoned home by 
the severe illness of his mother, which term- 
inated fatally, August 15, 1846. He then 
decided to abandon his college studies and 
to remain in Harrisburg, where he could 
give personal attention to his business. 

The firm, composed of the three brothers, 
Rudolph P., Immanuel M. and Henry A., 
under the name of Kelker & Bros., con- 



tinued in business until May, 1S51, when 
Rudolph F. retired, and Henry A. continued 
with his brother Immanuel under the firm 
name of Kelker & Bro., at the old stand 
No. 5, now No. 9, South Front street, until 
September, 1857, when they removed to the 
southeast corner of Market square. During 
this partnership, which continued until 
April 1, 1878, a large and profitable trade 
was secured and the enviable reputation of 
the house fully sustained. At this date 
Henry A. withdrew and retired from busi- 
ness, disposing of his stock partly to his 
nephews, Luther R. and William A., and 
partly to his brother, Immanuel M. 

Mr. Kelker has always held the opinion 
that it was better for the citizens to invest 
their surplus capital in home enterprises, 
since they can in this way more certainly 
benefit their own private interest and more 
effectually promote the growth and pros- 
perity of the community. That he has 
made this principle the foundation of his 
own course, his prominent and wide con- 
nection with important commercial and in- 
dustrial local organizations will show. He 
has served for many years as a director of 
the Harrisburg National Bank, as well as of 
the Chestnut Street Market Company, of the 
Harrisburg Gas Company, of the Harris- 
burg Steam Heat and Power Company, is 
also a director of the Pennsylvania Tele- 
phone Compairy and the Harrisburg Trac- 
tion Company, president of the Harrisburg 
City Passenger Railway Company since its 
reorganization in 1874, and of the Harris- 
burg Burial Case Company, and Harrisburg 
Furniture Manufacturing Company. He 
was one of the proprietors and founders of 
the town of Baldwin, which subsequently 
took the name of Steelton, and became the 
seat of the magnificent plant of the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Company. He has erected 
some of the most substantial buildings in 
Steelton, among which are the bank ami 
postoffice blocks. 

In matters of a political nature, Mr. 
Kelker has clear and decided views and 
finds himself more nearly in harmony with 
the Republican party, but is not in any 
sense an active partisan. He has served as 
a member of the common council of the city 
of Harrisburg, not however as a politician, 
but in the fulfilment of duty as a conscien- 
tious and patriotic citizen. Mr. Kelker is 
now and has been for a number of years a 
trustee of the Reformed Salem church of 



310 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Harrisburg, with which church he united 
April 6, 1845, by certificate from the Re- 
formed church at Mercersburg, Pa., which 
he had joined while at college. 

On the 11th of October, 1855, he married 
Ellen, daughter of Col. John Roberts and 
sister of Alexander Roberts, of both of whom 
biographical sketches appear in this volume. 
The children of this union were : Frederick 
A., John Roberts, Mary Anna, Anne Roberts, 
Henry A., Rudolph P., Ellen, Edith V., and 
Katherine M. Of these, Frederick A., John 
R. and Rudolph F. died in infancy ; the 
others are residing in the homestead with 
their father. Mrs. Kelker departed this life 
on the 8th of February, 1893. She was a 
most affectionate mother, faithful wife and 
a worthy member of the Reformed Salem 
church, and adorned her profession by a 
godly life. 



Greenawalt, Jacob, was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., August 10, 1826. He is a son of 
Jacob and Catherine (Krause) Greenawalt ; 
a sketch of his parents appears elsewhere in 
this volume. He was educated in the sub- 
scription schools, and learned the trade of 
tanner and currier in his father's tannery, 
where he worked for twelve years. 

In 1852 he and his brother Jeremiah K. 
engaged in the leather and shoe finding 
business at the present site of King's hard- 
ware store, on Market street. In 1854, at 
the death of their father, these brothers took 
his business at the appraisement, and con- 
ducted it for some years. They finally sold 
this interest to William Calder, and pur- 
chased a site from General Cameron and Dr. 
Robert Harris, on the corner of Eleventh and 
Paxton streets. Here they erected buildings, 
and equipped a tannery which they con- 
ducted for about twenty years. They re- 
moved to Seventeenth and Derry streets, 
and started a tan yard. They were joined 
by their brother, Major T. D. Greenawalt, 
and under the firm name of Greenawalt 
Bros, continued this business until 1888. 

In 1863 they purchased a three-story 
property on Market street, below Second 
street, of Kelker Bros., added two stories to 
the building, and removed to that location 
their salesrooms and their finishing shops. 
They continued their leather store until 
1892. They manufactured harness, sole, 
kip, upper and calfskin leathers, and found 
market at home and in foreign countries. 
The excellence of their manufactures was 



such as to enable them to win medals in 
various expositions, at home and abroad. 
The increased cost of transportation of bark 
from a distance reduced the profits of their 
productions, and caused them to retire from 
business. 

Mr. Greenawalt is a stockholder in the 
Harrisburg Gas Company, the Harrisburg 
Electric Light Company, and the Harrisburg 
Traction Company. He is a member of 
Perseverance Lodge, A. Y. M., and Royal 
Arch Chapter. His politics are Republican. 

He was married in 1879 to Miss Julia, 
daughter of John Pifer, a native of Prussia, 
who served in the German army, came to 
America and settled in Wormleysburg, and 
from there moved to Harrisburg. The 
children of Mr. and Mrs. Greenawalt are 
Catherine, Theodore David, Julia Louisa, 
deceased, Bertha May, Mary Elizabeth, and 
Charles David. Mrs. Greenawalt is a mem- 
ber of the German Catholic church. 



LaRoss, David Henry Earnest, the son 
of Rev. Joseph LaRoss and Elizabeth Earn- 
est, was born January 9, 1827, at Bloomsburg, 
Columbia county, Pa. His father died when 
his son was an infant, and Ins mother, an 
exemplary woman, when he was eleven years 
of age. Thus early left an orphan he was 
thrown upon his own resources for a liveli- 
hood. After varied employments he returned 
to Hummeistown with his maternal uncle, 
and shortly after apprenticed himself to the 
trade of cabinet-maker. After serving his 
time he began clerking at Harrisburg, where 
he remained several years, at the same time 
closely applying himself to study. He sub- 
sequently entered Lafayette College, Easton, 
where he remained two } r ears, his limited 
means not permitting him to remain for 
graduation. He then began teaching as a 
profession. In 1860 he was first elected 
county superintendent of public schools, in 
which position he served until his death, 
except in 1872, when he was elected to a term 
of office by a vote of sixty-five out of ninety 
polled, yet, owing to some defect and objec- 
tion by several boards of directors, the per- 
son who received the next highest number 
of votes was commissioned superintendent. 
He was, however, re-elected in 1875 and in 
1878, and again in 1881, when his vote was 
almost unanimous. Professor LaRoss died 
at Hummeistown, Sunday, October 22, 1882, 
in the fifty-sixth year of his age. Professor 
LaRoss mai'ried, in 1853, Sarah A. Coil, of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



311 



Shaefferstown, Lebanon county, Pa., who 
died in January, 1867, and there was issue: 
Joseph, John, Mary, Gertrude, married Eli 
Kline, of Allentown, Carroll, Robert, Sarah, 
and Eva. He next married Annie W. Bren- 
neman, of Elizabethtown, Pa., who died two 
years afterwards without issue. In 1872 he 
married Fannie Hummel, of Hummelstown, 
and there was issue: Fannie, Claude and 
Edna. 



Hoyek, George, retired, was born in 
Hogestown, Cumberland county, Pa., August 
3, 1828. He is a son of Jacob and Lucetta 
(Brua) Hoyer. George, the father of Jacob 
Hoyer, a native of York county, came to 
Harrisburg about 1780. He purchased land 
from the Harris' in what is now Market 
square. He traded in general merchandise, 
and built the "Popular Tavern," of which he 
was proprietor for many years. After the 
organization of the borough of Harrisburg, 
he was elected its first chief burgess. He was 
one of the organizers of the Harrisburg 
Bank. In politics he was Democratic. He 
was a member of the German Reformed 
church, and helped to organize the church 
on Chestnut street. He married Miss Cath- 
erine Schultz, of York county. He died in 
Harrisburg in 1841 ; his wife died in 1835. 
They had one son and three daughters: 
Jacob, Susan (Mrs. Philip Smyser, of York 
county), Sarah and Eliza, maiden ladies ; 
all are deceased. 

Jacob Hoyer, father of George second, was 
born in Harrisburg in 1793. He received 
his education in the subscription schools. 
He dealt in general merchandise, first in 
Hogestown, and afterwards in Harrisburg ; 
he also kept a hotel on Front street, between 
Chestnut and Market streets. He was a 
private in the army in the war of 1812. He 
was a member of the German Reformed 
church. His wife was a native of Harris- 
burg, and a member of the Lutheran church. 
He died May 21, 1834; his wife, in 1860. 
Their eight children were: George P., de- 
ceased; B. Franklin, of Harrisburg; Sarah 
Ann, Catherine (Mrs. Ambrose Taylor), 
Charles, teacher in a private school; George; 
Jacob, a dentist, was lieutenant in the 
Twelfth U. S. infantry during the Rebellion; 
Joseph, a tinner, was first lieutenant of the 
First U. S. cavalry, and was killed in the 
Shenandoah Valley; all are dead except 
George and B. Franklin. 

George Hoyer was educated in the com- 



mon schools. He learned tin and iron 
working, and followed that trade for thirty 
years, after which he retired from active 
business. 

In 1850 he married Miss Justina, daugh- 
ter of William Hippey, of Columbia, Lan- 
caster county. He has six children living 
and two dead: Louisa, (Mrs. Frank With- 
erau), of Harrisburg; Charles, died young; 
Justina, died young; William, of Harris- 
burg, printer; J. Brua, of Chambersburg, 
private secretary to the president of the 
Cumberland Valley railroad ; Elizabeth (Mrs. 
Benjamin Boggs), of Harrisburg; Josephine 
and George R. 

Mr. Hoyer is a Republican. He and his 
family are prominent members of Zion 
Lutheran church, Fourth street, Harrisburg:. 



Duey, Simon, was born in Susquehanna 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., December 1, 
1829. He is a son of Frederick and Barbara 
(Peiffer) Due}'. His father was born in East 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, March 
24, 1796, and died in Susquehanna township, 
December 4, 1855. His mother was born in 
Lebanon county, Pa., June 14, 1804, and 
died November 15, 1857. His grandparents, 
Emanuel Duey, a soldier in the Revolution- 
ary war, and wife, had nine children : John, 
born February 15, 1783; Simon, born De- 
cember 11,1784; Susanna, born November 
29,1786; John, born August 18,1789 ; Cath- 
erine, born November 11, 1791 ; Mary, born 
December 14, 1793; Frederick, born March 
24, 1796 , Eva, born October 22, 1798; Eliza- 
beth, born April 3, 1805; all long since de- 
ceased. His father and mother, Frederick 
and Barbara Duey, were married March 21, 
1822. They had twelve children : Caroline, 
born November 8, 1823, widow of the late 
Paul Barnhardt, of Harrisburg; Elizabeth, 
born October 1, 1825, wife of Samuel Stober. 
of Harrisburg; Mary Ann, born October 26, 
1S27, deceased; Simon; Susannah, horn 
February 19, 1832, deceased; Jacob, born 
December 5, 1834, killed while serving in 
the defense of his country in the late war; 
Ann Catherine, born April 11, 1837, wife of 
Jesse Long, of Northumberland county ; 
Fanny, born February 15, 1839, deceased; 
Harriet, born March 12, 18 l"2. wife of David 
W. Miller, of Harrisburg; Leah, born Novem- 
ber 15, 1843, died April 1,1851; Frederick, 
born December 11, 1844, killed while serving 
in defense of his country in the late war ; and 



312 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Rebba, born Mav 4, 1844, died March 29, 
1851. 

Simon Duey was reared to manhood in 
Susquehanna township, receiving his educa- 
tion in the public schools. He worked on 
the farm until he' was twenty years of age, 
and then learned carpentry which he fol- 
lowed for ten years. The following twenty 
years he spent in agricultural pursuits in 
Susquehanna and Lower Paxton townships. 
In 1870 he was elected register of wills, 
which office he held for six years, meanwhile 
remaining on the farm and superintending 
its operation. In 1879 he was appointed 
warden of the Dauphin county prison, and 
filled the office for four and a-half years. 
He also served as auditor of Dauphin county 
from 1867 to 1870. Since 1884 he has not 
been engaged in active business. 

Mr. Duey was married in Lower Paxton 
township, December 25, 1853, to Susan Zar- 
ker, daughter of Benjamin and Catherine 
(Faler) Zarker, both natives of Dauphin 
county. Mrs. Duey was born in Susque- 
hanna township, Dauphin county, Pa., May 
9, 1832. They have two daughters, Mary A., 
born August 5, 1854, wife of John H. Smith, 
of Harrisburg ; and Sarah E., wife of Andrew 
R. Unger, a prominent farmer of Lower Pax- 
ton township. 

Mr. Duey is a member of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M. In political views 
he is a staunch Republican. The family at- 
tend the Lutheran church. Mr. Duey has 
well discharged the public trusts committed 
to his hands, and enjoys the confidence and 
esteem of his neighbors. 

Greenawalt, Jeremiah K., was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., July 30, 1830. He is a son 
of Jacob and Catherine (Krause) Greena- 
walt, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in 
this book. He was educated in the sub- 
scription schools. He learned the trade of 
tanner and currier with his father. 

He engaged in the leather business with 
his brothers, taking charge of the finishing 
department. During the late war his firm 
filled extensive orders from Lacy & Phillips, 
of Philadelphia, who had large contracts 
with the Government for supplying the army 
with leather goods. He is a practical judge 
of leather, and known as an expert. He 
was importuned by many large leather 
dealers in Philadelphia, Pa., to apply for the 
position of leather inspector and the posi- 
tion was promised him by Governor Curtin, 



but he failed to secure it on account of ad- 
verse political influence. 

Mr. Greenawalt is a stockholder in the 
Harrisburg Traction Company and the 
Chestnut Street Market Company. 

He was married, November 18, 1858, to 
Miss Annie Louisa, daughter of George 
Wolfersberger, of Harrisburg, by whom he 
had four children: Augustus William, died 
in infancy, Edwin J., postal money order 
clerk, Harrisburg P. 0., Regina C, and Jer- 
emiah K., Jr., secretary and treasurer of the 
Harrisburg Steam Heat and Power Com- 
pany. 

Mr. Greenawalt is a Republican. He is 
a member of Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Wingert, Jesse, was born in Harrisburg, 
Pa., March 4, 1833. He is a son of John 
and Mary (Heckendom) Wingert. The 
Wingert family are of German ancestry. 
John Wingert was born in Georgetown, D. 
C, came to Harrisburg with his parents 
when a boy, and resided here continuously 
until his death. He served in the war of 
1812. He was a weaver, and followed that 
occupation. He died in 1837. 

The Heckendorn family are of Swiss ex- 
traction. They settled at Jonestown, Pa., at 
an early date. On account of troubles with 
the Indians, they abandoned their home 
there, and located in York, Pa. Mary 
Heckendorn, mother of Jesse Wingert, came 
with her parents to Harrisburg in 1804, and 
resided here until her death. John and 
Mary Wingert had a family of eight chil- 
dren ; a daughter, Mary, widow of Michael 
Goodwin, residing in Philadelphia, and 
their son Jesse are the only living mem- 
bers of the family. Joseph, a son, was 
killed at the battle of Vicksburg; Charles 
died in Harrisburg in September, 1889; 
Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Martin, died in 
Harrisburg in 1850. Three other children 
died young. 

Jesse Wingert has spent his whole life in 
Harrisburg. He received his education in 
the city schools. He learned bricklaying, 
but followed that occupation for only one 
year after his apprenticeship. For the next 
seven years he was engaged in the sale of 
building sand. Since that time he has been 
in the real estate business. In August, 1864, 
he enlisted in company L, Ninety-ninth 
Pennsylvania volunteers, as a jjrivate. In 
the same year his company was attached 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



313 



to the One Hundred and Ninety-ninth regi- 
ment, becoming company E of that regi- 
ment, and Mr. Wingert was promoted to 
be its second lieutenant. He served in this 
regiment until the close of the war, taking 
part in the engagements around Peters- 
burg, Va. 

Jesse Wingert was married in East Penns- 
boro' township, Cumberland county, Novem- 
ber 20, 1865, to Barbara, daughter of Dr. 
Joseph and Mary (Renninger) Blust. They 
have no children. 

Mr. AVingert has been assessor for one 
year. He has represented the Sixth ward 
for one term in common council. He is a 
director in the Merchants' National Bank, 
and in the Central Safe Deposit and Guar- 
antee Company ; also in the Safe Deposit 
Building and Loan Association. In politics 
Mr. Wingert is an independent voter, aim- 
ing always to support the most worthy men, 
irrespective of party. Mr. Wingert is ex- 
ecutor of the Downey estate, and is com- 
mittee for George W. McKee, in the McKee 
estate. He has also settled other estates to 
the entire satisfaction of every one con- 
cerned. He is a member of Grace M. E. 
church. Mrs. Wingert is a member of St. 
Lawrence's Roman Catholic church. 

Dr. Joseph Blust, the father of Mrs. Win- 
gert, is one of the oldest residents of Harris- 
burg, and the oldest physician. He was 
born in Baden, Germany, October 28, 1804, 
received his education in his native land, 
came to America with his parents in 1817, 
and lived in Lebanon county, Pa. There he 
read medicine under Dr. Mish and other 
eminent physicians. He began the practice 
of his profession when he was twenty-nine 
years old, in Cumberland county, and re- 
mained there until 1865. In this year he 
removed to Harrisburg, and practiced until 
a few years ago. He was married, January 
4, 1838, to Mary Renninger, who died in 
Harrisburg, July 8, 1889. They had three 
children : Margaret, born January 15, 1839, 
died March 18, 1869; Barbara, wife of Jesse 
Wingert, born June 4, 1840; Joseph, born 
May 15, 1846, married Mary Webber, May 
14, 1870, and resides in Hampton township, 
Cumberland county. 

Mary Renninger, mother of Mrs. Wingert, 
was born in Cumberland county, March is, 
1808. She was the daughter of Martin and 
Margaretta (Rupp) Renninger. Martin 
Renninger was born in Lancaster county in 
1764. He served in the State Legislature. 



For many years he was an officer in the Lu- 
theran church. He died October 29, 1841, 
and is buried in Zion Lutheran church, 
near West Fairview. 



Simmons, Col. O. B., was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., April 28, 1842. He is the third 
son of George W. Simmons, who was one of 
the oldest and most honored citizens of Har- 
risburg. He died April 5, 1889. He was a 
lineal descendant of Colonel Whitley and 
Capt. Mike Ward of Paxtang Valley, who 
were of Scotch-Irish origin, and were noted 
officers in the war of 1812. 

Colonel Simmons received his education 
in the common schools of Harrisburg. At 
the age of nineteen, he was one of the first 
to respond to the call for troops at the break- 
ing out of the Civil war. He enlisted April 
18, 1861, as a private soldier, in the Lochiel 
Grays. During his service in the army he 
was promoted, at different times, for the only 
qualities that entitle a soldier to promotion, 
discipline and gallantry on the field of bat- 
tle. His last promotion was to the rank of 
brevet colonel. He served in the Eastern 
and Western armies, until January 18, 1866, 
when he received an honorable discharge, 
having given to his country five of the best 
years of his life. 

After his return to Harrisburg he became 
deputy warden of the county prison, which 
position he held for ten years. Since that 
time he has been engaged in various busi- 
ness ventures. He finally located in the 
eastern part of the city, and engaged in 
plumbing and gas-fitting, being senior 
partner of the firm of O. B. Simmons & Son. 

Colonel Simmons represented the Ninth 
ward of the city in common council, and is 
also president of the board of health, and 
chairman of the joint sanitary committee. 
He has always taken an active interest in 
city and State politics, and is a strong ad- 
herent to Republican principles. He is a 
charter member of Post 58, G. A. R. He 
withdrew from the charter membership of 
Knights of Pythias. 

He was first married in Baton Rouge, La., 
in 1865, and had three children, George \V.. 
in business with his father; Charles K., and 
Gertrude, a trained nurse of Philadelphia. 
He was again married in 1895, to Miss Har- 
riet Mahaney, a prominent teacher in the 
city schools. Mrs. Simmons is a member of 
Bethel church, and Colonel Simmons at- 
tends the same church. 



314 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Demming, Col. Henry C, was born in 
Geneva, N. Y., September 28, 1842. He 
is a direct descendant, on his father's side, of 
John Demming, whose name appears in the 
Liberal charter of 1662, granted by Charles 
II. to the colony of Connecticut, and after- 
wards concealed in the famous Charter Oak, 
and who is mentioned in Savage's " Genea- 
logical Dictionary of New England " as one 
of the principal settlers of Wethersfield, 
Conn. His mother, whose maiden name 
was Sarah Vierna Carpenter, was a native 
of Bennington, Vt., and the surnames most 
familiar on the maternal side are Carpenter 
and Hildreth. They seem to have been 
among the earliest settlers of Vermont. 

Before he was three years of age young 
Demming had been taught his letters by his 
mother, and when about thirteen years old 
he entered upon a classical course. During 
his vacations he spent considerable time in 
the printing office of his native village, 
sometimes working as roller boy at the hand 
press, and this led to his giving up his class 
studies and becoming an apprentice in the 
Geneva Gazette office. This apprenticeship, 
however, was summarily cut short, and he 
went to work on his uncle's fruit and horti- 
culture farm, and helped to bring into pro- 
fitable bearing the first vineyard of the many 
now dotting the hill-ascending slopes sur- 
rounding the charming Seneca Lake. 

His advent into Pennsylvania occurred in 
the summer of 1859, and, after many vicis- 
situdes in search of employment, he entered 
Harrisburg on a bleak November day as a 
mule driver on the canal en route for the 
Paxton furnace with a boat load of coal. 
The canal suddenly freezing up, navigation 
was declared closed for the season, and 
young Demming sought employment in the 
printing office of the Harrisburg Patriot and 
Union, and contracted to complete his ap- 
prenticeship in that establishment. Before 
the apprenticeship agreement expired the 
Rebellion broke out, and it was with great 
reluctance that he was obliged to forego the 
opportunity to enlist when the first call for 
volunteers appeared. On September 10, 
1861, however, he tendered his services as 
private to Capt. (afterwards Maj.) Charles C. 
Davis, of company I, Seventh Pennsylvania 
cavalry, which regiment was then in Camp 
Cameron, near Harrisburg, drilling and 
awaiting orders to proceed to the front. 
Unfortunately, in a short time, he became 



involved in a hand-to-hand struggle with 
some drunken Welshmen who had deserted 
the regiment, and he was advised to retire, 
as they threatened to take his life if he re- 
mained. 

A second call having been made for three 
months' men, Mr. Demming immediately 
enlisted as a private, and without personal 
solicitation came within a few votes of being 
elected second lieutenant of the company. 

On the call for nine months' volunteers 
the records show that young Demming was 
the first man to enlist as a private, connect- 
ing himself with company A, One Hundred 
and Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania volun- 
teers. He was subsequently detailed to as- 
sist the medical officers by keeping the rec- 
ords of their examinations of volunteers, 
and was subsequently detached for duty in 
the mustering office of Capt. Richard I. 
Dodge, of the. regular army. During and 
following his detached duty service he was 
sent on important missions South, once in 
charge of a large body of convalescent sol- 
diers, being appointed a sergeant for the pur- 
pose, and subsequently to the Army of the 
Potomac, near Fredericksburg, about the 
time of the battle of Chancellorsville. 

After nearly a year's service as a private . 
soldier young Demming appears on the mil- 
itary roll as a corporal of an independent 
company, formed for the purpose of assisting 
in the protection of Pennsylvania from in- 
vasion in 1863. In this capacity he did 
special service in the darkness of the early 
morning of the memorable July 2, when 
portions of the invading hosts weresweeping 
down the Cumberland Valley to destroy 
Pennsylvania's capital and devastate the 
neighboring country. Corporal Demming 
was the principal in capturing in the Sus- 
quehanna, opposite the late residence of 
Hon. Simon Cameron, in Harrisburg, a Con- 
federate captain and scout who had nearly 
accomplished his mission, and with a map 
of the fords of the Susquehanna from Marys- 
ville to just below Harrisburg, was quite 
prepared to return to the Confederate cav- 
alry advance, under General Stuart, less 
than five miles away, to report favorably 
upon a plan to burn the public buildings, 
destroy the railroad and levy heavy tribute 
upon the citizens of the State capital. A 
day or two afterwards he volunteered to help 
convey four hundred thousand rounds of 
ammunition to the Union army near Gettys- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



315 



burg. A few months afterwards Corporal 
Demmiug re-enlisted as a private, and was 
unanimously elected first lieutenant of the 
company, and subsequently promoted to 
quartermaster of his regiment, the One Hun- 
dred and Ninety-fourth Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, and afterwards acted as quarter- 
master, commissary and ordnance officer, 
under Gen. James Nagle in Maryland, Third 
separate brigade, Eighth army corps. He 
then recruited a sufficient number of men 
to be entitled to a captaincy, but the emer- 
gency of the Government induced him to ac- 
cept the first lieutenancy of the company, 
which was subsequently assigned as com- 
pany I, to the Seventy-seventh Pennsyl- 
vania veteran volunteers, First brigade, 
First division, Fourth army corps, in the - 
Army of the Cumberland, under Maj. Gen. 
George H. Thomas. Here Lieutenant Dem- 
miug participated in the last campaign of 
Tennessee, and then in the memorable cam- 
paign of Gen. P. H. Sheridan, in Texas, at 
the close of the war. In one of these cam- 
paigns Lieutenant Demming was assigned 
to duty on the staff of the corps commander, 
Maj. Gen. D. S. Stanley, and then as muster- 
ing officer on the staff of the lamented Gen. 
George A. Custer. While acting in this lat- 
ter capacity he aided in mustering out Gen- 
eral Grant's original regiment, the Twentj r - 
first Illinois volunteers, and in January, 
1866, he mustered in the last two volunteers 
of the war of the Rebellion, it having been 
ascertained that while they had served faith- 
fully as soldiers they had never been duly 
mustered into service. Declining to accept 
a commissioned office in the Freedman's 
Bureau, he was honorably discharged and 
returned to Harrisburg about April 1, 1866. 
Lieutenant Demming was subsequently 
.elected to the captaincy ot a company of the 
"Boys in Blue," and was then promoted to 
major and judge advocate by Gov. John W. 
Geary, serving in that capacity on the staff 
of Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Jordan, command- 
ing the Fifth division of the National Guard of 
Pennsylvania from October 12, 1870, until 
honorably discharged, June 30, 1874. On 
January 30, 1884, he was appointed by Gov. 
Pattison an aide-de-camp on his staff, with 
the rank of lieutenant colonel, and served 
as such throughout that official's term. He 
was recommissioned in January, 1887, as 
lieutenant colonel by Governor Beaver, and 
appointed on his staff, being the senior of 
his rank thereon and served until June 11, 



1SS7, when he resigned, and was honorably 
discharged. 

On September 11, 1887, Governor Scales, 
of North Carolina, tendered him a place on 
his staff as special aide, with the rank of 
colonel, which he accepted in time to ap- 
pear with the governor at the centennial 
celebration of the Constitution of the United 
States, held in Philadelphia the same 
month. This position he held until Gov- 
ernor Scales' term expired, about three years 
afterwards. Several times during, the war 
he received injuries which required treat- 
ment at the hospitals, but the most serious 
ailment from which he suffered was a vio- 
lent attack of typhoid fever contracted near 
Nashville, Tenn., from which he would in 
all probabilitj' have died had not the devo- 
tion of his wife, a native of Middletown, Pa., 
impelled her to leave her home in Harris- 
burg and go to him in the field, traveling a 
part of the way through a country infested 
with guerillas, and care for her husband 
until he was sufficiently recovered to bear 
removal home. During his terms of service 
Colonel Demming received less than $100 
in bounties of everj' description. 

In civil life, since the war, he has usually 
followed the occupations of journalist or 
stenographer, although as far back as 1860 
he excelled as a printer, his composition bill 
for one week, while employed on the Har- 
risburg Telegraph, exceeding ninety thou- 
sand ems, much of the work being "solid 
matter," a record that had not been equalled 
in Harrisburg at that time. He was the 
city editor of the Harrisburg Daily Telegraph 
while still a minor. He has from time to 
time been a contributor to a number of the 
leading periodicals of the United States and 
Canada, and until recently was a corres- 
pondent of several of the great dailies. The 
Farmer's Friend, printed at Mechanicsburg, 
Pa., and enjoying perhaps the largest farmer 
patronage of any agricultural paper in 
Pennsylvania, was started jointly by its 
present proprietor and Colonel Demming. 

He read law with Hon. A. J. Herr, ex- 
State senator from the Dauphin district, and 
devoted considerable attention to the study 
of medicine and the physical sciences. As- 
tronomy, geology and mineralogy have been 
special studies, together with the acquire- 
ment of some knowledge of modern languages. 
Having devoted considerable time for many 
years past to practical mining he has ac- 
quired quite an amount of knowledge in 



316 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



that direction, and has had numerous no- 
tices in the public press relative to his work 
and success in discovering and developing 
valuable deposits of iron ore and other 
minerals in Pennsylvania, Maryland and 
the South. 

During the past ten or twelve years he 
has given a great deal of time and attention 
to the development of several mines in 
Western North Carolina, and has brought to 
public notice at home and abroad a number 
of valuable gem minerals found in the 
South. His collection of gems and gem 
materials, made principally through the 
Marion Bullion Company and the Marion 
Improvement Company, of North Carolina, 
is now perhaps as large, varied and unique 
as any other collection of American precious 
and semi-precious stones. One selection of 
five hundred gems was awarded the highest 
prize at the World's Columbian Exposition, 
Chicago, in 1893. 

His activity in farming matters led to his 
joining the Farmers' Alliance in the spring 
of 1890, and forming the first organization 
in Pennsylvania, Patriarch Farmers' Alli- 
ance No. 1, of which he was made the first 
president. He was made the first president 
of the State organization, afterwards State 
secretary, and subsequently member and 
secretary of the executive committee of the 
National Farmers' Alliance and Industrial 
Union. 

Colonel Demming's specialty, however, 
for a number of years was phonographic re- 
porting. Beginning with a " Pitman's Man- 
ual of Phonography" on a farm in 1862, 
which he still had with him on his final dis- 
charge from the army in 1866, he continued 
studying the art until the " Reporter's Man- 
ual " was mastered. In the winter of 1866- 
67 a position as amanuensis was secured on 
the Pennsylvania Legislative Record. Dur- 
ing eight sessions of the Legislature he was 
employed, two years as an amanuensis, and 
then as a verbatim reporter. Throughout 
two of the annual sessions he did the entire 
verbatim reporting of the House of Represen- 
tatives. His professional engagements stead- 
ily increased until he became the " official" 
of five of the judicial districts of Pennsyl- 
vania, and regularly did the reporting of all 
civil cases in which the Commonwealth of 
Pennsylvania was a party, besides having 
been special official stenographer of the de- 
partment of justice of the United States, and 
holding other equally important positions. 



In addition to these official appointments he 
was the stenographer of the Pennsylvania 
Board of Agriculture from its organization 
in 1877 until 1892. 

After the organization of the International 
Stenographers' Association Colonel Dem- 
ming became an active member, being 
honored wtth the first vice-presidency for 
the United States in 1882, and elected presi- 
dent at its session in Toronto, Canada, in 
August, 1883. In 1887 Colonel Demming was 
made a delegate to the International Con- 
gress in London. 

In political matters he has served the city 
of Harrisburg in her council chambers, and 
had the distinction of being named as a 
candidate for delegate to the convention 
which remodelled the constitution of Penn- 
sylvania. He was once nominated by a 
minority party for member of Congress, but 
without hope of election, although he re- 
ceived three times the vote of the regular 
ticket. 

At an early age he sought out and became 
a member of the most reputable and promi- 
nent organizations and societies of his com- 
munity, and is a life-member of a number, 
including the Masonic fraternity. The list 
embraces forty-two, of which fifteen are 
secret and twenty-seven non-secret, includ- 
ing seven, of a religious character. In a 
number of them he has held official po- 
sitions. He was president of the Association 
of Survivors of the Seventy-seventh Penn- 
sj'lvania veteran volunteers, and is a member 
of and takes a deep interest in a number of 
other military associations, especially the 
Grand Army of Republic, the Loyal Legion, 
the Society of the Army of the Potomac, the 
Society of the Army of the Cumberland, and 
the National Guard. Colonel Demming has 
been very active in church and Sabbath- 
school work, having been an officer in his 
church for more than twenty-one years, and 
a superintendent of one Sunday-school from 
the time of its foundation until it was seven- 
teen years old, besides holding other im- 
portant official relations in the church of his 
selection at home and elsewhere. He has 
been secretary of the General Eldership of 
the Church of God in North America, serv- 
ing as president of the Sabbath-school Con- 
vention of his church for that part of Penn- 
sylvania east of the Allegheny mountains, 
and vice-president of the Pennsylvania 
Sabbath-school Association. 

On October 20, 1863, he married Miss 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



317 



Kate E. Whitman, of Middletown, Dauphin 
count}', and the union has heen blessed with 
a family of five children. 

Crook, Capt. William H., was born at 
Clark's Ferry, Dauphin county, Pa., Febru- 
ary 29, 1844. He is a son of Gabriel and 
Catherine (Dale) Crook. His grandfather, 
William Crook, was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., and was one of the prominent 
farmers of that county. He was the son of 
James Crook, a native of England, who was 
the first of the family to settle in this country. 

Gabriel Crook, Captain Crook's father, was 
born in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland county, 
and came to Dauphin county in 1842. He 
located on the Pennsylvania canal, in Reed 
township, and was lock tender at Clark's 
Ferry until the breaking out of the war. He 
enlisted in company C, One Hundred and 
Thirty-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, for nine months; at the expiration 
of that term he re-enlisted in the Fourth 
regiment, United States regulars. He lost 
an arm at North Ann river, immediately 
after the battle of the Wilderness ; this was 
the ground of his honorable discharge from 
the service. He had been a soldier in the 
Florida war and the Mexican war also, and 
died at Steelton, Pa., December 29, 1S92. 
He was a member of the G. A. R., and of the 
United Brethren church. His wife died in 
1876. They had six children : William H, 
Samuel A., of Rockaway, N. J., served one 
year in company H, Thirty-third regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers; David R., de- 
ceased, enlisted in the Forty-seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, was trans- 
ferred to the Twenty-seventh regiment, and 
was ordered on the staff of General Miles; 
Wesley, of Harrisburg ; Hannah (Mrs. Will- 
iam Leplev), of Lewisburg, Pa., and Margaret 
Ethel. 

Capt. William H. Crook was brought up 
in Reed township, and educated in the town- 
ship schools, and was also at school six 
months at Mechanicsburg, Pa. On August 
27, 1861, he enlisted in company C, Seventy- 
seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
as a private, and served three years. He 
was wounded at the battle of Camp Nevin, 
Kv. He re-enlisted in company K, Two 
Hundred and Third regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, and was commissioned captain 
of his company. He was finally discharged, 
August 29, 1865. He participated in the 
battles at Mill Springs, Ky., Shiloh, Chicka- 



mauga, Deep Bottom, Va., Bentonville, N. 
C, and many other important engagements. 
He was wounded while on picket duty at 
the New Market Road, Va., and again at 
Folsom's Station, Va. He was confined in 
the David Island Hospital. After the war 
closed he engaged in contract work in Har- 
risburg. He helped to build the Phcenix- 
ville and West Chester railroad, the Schuyl- 
kill Valley railroad, and the Baltimore and 
Ohio railroad through Delaware. He has 
also been engaged in the sand business for a 
number of years. 

He is a Republican, and was elected 
supervisor of the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh 
and Eighth wards in 1889, and has filled 
that position ever since, with the exception 
of one year. He was re-elected in 1896. He 
is a member of Post No. 58, G. A. R., and 
was appointed on the staff of General Adams, 
commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of 
the Republic in 1894, which gave him 
the rank of post commander. In 1895 he 
was delegate to the State convention of the 
G. A. R., in Williamsport, Pa., and was 
elected by the State convention a delegate 
to the National convention, held in Louis- 
ville, Ky., September, 1895. Captain Crook 
is a member of the Mt. Vernon Hook and 
Ladder Company, and the Firemen's Bene- 
ficial Association of Harrisburg. He was 
married, in 1890, to Miss Mary E., daughter 
of Levi Whippo, of Huntingdon county, Pa. 
The family are members of the Bethel 
Lutheran church. 



Verbeke, William K., city controller, was 
born in Harrisburg over three score and ten 
years ago, and has seen Pennsylvania's capi- 
tal grow from a village to a most important 
municipality. His parents came from Hol- 
land and lived for some years in Philadel- 
phia, subsequently moving to Harrisburg in 
1817, when it was but a borough of about 
2,000 inhabitants. Mr. Verbeke received a 
liberal education, is a fine scholar and a 
writer of much strength and elegance. His 
people excelled in mathematics, an aptness 
which he seems to have inherited. It is 
doubtful if there is a single individual in 
Harrisburg who can calculate with the 
rapidity and accuracy he does. This faculty 
which he possesses makes him a valuable 
officer to the financial department of the 
city. In addition to this he is a thorough 
financier, surveying with an eagle eve the 
financial situation, and drawing conclusions 



318 



BIO GRA PHIVA L ENUYCL OPEDIA 



therefrom which seldom fail to be verified 
and sustained. His efficiency in the office 
of controller and the esteem in which he is 
held by the citizens generally are clearl}' 
shown in his having been elected to the 
position of controller consecutively since 
1883, though he was pitted against the 
strongest candidates that could be found. 

Almost from the time Harrisburg was 
created a borough down to the present time, 
he has represented the citizens of Harris- 
burg either in council or on the school board, 
and they regarded him with such favor as to 
make him mayor of the city previous to his 
election as controller. He is modest and un- 
assuming in manner, and his personal worth 
and ability to discharge his official duties, 
the spirit in which he beautified the city in 
various ways with his means, his charity 
manifest in giving homes to many homeless, 
his generous contribution to the cause of 
humanitj' in the late war, have endeared 
him to the people and they consider that 
there is nothing too good to bestow upon 
him. He is their beau ideal of a man, a 
careful, prudent and efficient officer, loved 
and esteemed by all, and it is predicted that 
as long as Mr. Verbeke will consent he will 
continue to fill the- office of controller. 

As a representative fireman, being the 
oldest but one in point of continuous service, 
he is just as highly esteemed for the valuable 
service he has rendered the city in that way. 
He helped to organize the Good Will Fire 
Company and has been its worthy president 
ever since, except during the years he was 
filing the office of mayor and was compelled 
to devote his entire attention to that office. 
Nothing pleases him more than to relate 
incidents of by -gone days or to participate in 
public occasions with his brother firemen. 



MaDrer, Daniel O, alderman of Harris- 
burg, Pa., was born at Mount Joy, Lancaster 
county, Pa., December 19, 1823. He is a 
son of Daniel and Catherine (Dyer) Maurer, 
the former a native of Berks count}', and 
the latter of Lancaster county, Pa. His 
father was a cabinet-maker, and settled at 
an early day at Mount Joy, where he spent 
the greater part of his life, and where he 
died in 1871 ; his wife died there forty years 
before. He was three times married. Of 
the five children of the first marriage, 
Daniel C. Maurer is the only one living. To 
the second marriage there were born two 



children, only one of whom is living, Anna 
B., wife of Henry Arndt, of Manheim, Pa. 

Daniel C. Maurer was reared in his native 
county, and received his education in the 
Richmond Academy of that county. He 
learned the cabinet-maker's trade, and fol- 
lowed this occupation until 1860. In that 
year he removed to Harrisburg, and became 
a clerk in the auditor general's office. He 
occupied this position for fifteen years, and 
during six years of this time he was chief 
clerk. In 1875 he was elected alderman 
from the Fourth ward, which office he lias 
filled for twenty years with the utmost ac- 
ceptance to his constituents. He is one of 
the oldest living aldermen of the city. In 
addition to this office, he was a member of 
the common council for three years, and for 
one year was the president of that body. 
He was also for many years a school director 
at Mount Joy, .Pa. 

Mr. Maurer was married at Lititz, Lancas- 
ter county, March 25, 1845, to Sarah E. 
Rauch, daughter of Christian H. Rauch, 
who was born at Lititz, October 17, 1826. 
Their children are: Charles W., of Philadel- 
phia, and Annie E., wife of Gabriel Hiester, 
of Esterton Farm, Coxestown, Dauphin 
county, Pa. . 

Mr. Maurer is a charter member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M. ; of Har- 
risburg Consistory, Scottish Rite Masons, 
and of Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11, 
Knights Templars. In political views he is 
a staunch Republican, and was formerly a 
Whig. The family attend the Pine Street 
Presbyterian church. 

On the 25th of March, 1895, occurred the 
golden anniversary of his marriage, on 
which occasion his numerous friends at- 
tested their appreciation of his personal 
worth and public services by valuable gifts 
and hearty congratulations to him and his 
estimable wife. Time has touched him 
lightly, leaving him still active and able to 
enjoy life. 

Longenkcker, John S., warden of prison, 
was born in Londonderry township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 28, 1839; son 
of Christian and Mary (Shank) Longenecker, 
the former a native of Lebanon and the 
latter of Dauphin county. His parents have 
spent the greater part of their lives in Dau- 
phin county. They had ten children, five 
of whom are living : Fannie, wife of George 
Hoffer, residing in Conewago township, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



319 



Dauphin county; Benjamin, residing in 
Derry township, Dauphin county; Mary, 
wife of Josiah Fultz, residing in Middletown, 
Pa.; John S., and Rebecca, wife of Samuel 
Moyer, residing in Londonderry township, 
Dauphin county. 

John S. was reared on the farm and re- 
ceived his education in the public schools 
of his native township. He became a farmer 
and followed that occupation for about 
twenty-five years. He has served as treas- 
urer of the county, and as school director 
and in other minor township offices. In 
January, 1894, he was appointed warden of 
the county prison. In his political views 
he is a Republican. He is a member of the 
Royal Arcanum. Mr. Longenecker was mar- 
ried, in Londonderry township, November 
6, 1859, to Margaret Peck, daughter of 
Nicholas and Esther (Engle) Peck, and to 
them have been born six children : Simon, 
residing in Middletown ; Christian P., re- 
siding in Londonderry township ; Albert, 
residing in Hummelstown ; Harvey, resid- 
ing at the homestead farm in Londonderry 
township ; Mary, residing with parents ; 
Fannie, with parents. The family attend 
the church of the River Brethren. 



Hayward, Richard W., Jr., of the Penn- 
sylvania State arsenal, was born at Philadel- 
phia, July 1, 1840. He is a son of Richard 
W., Sr., and Frances (Fisher) Hayward, the 
former a native England, the latter a native 
of Philadelphia. His ancestors on his father's 
side were English. His father came to Amer- 
ica in his early life, and resided at Philadel- 
phia for many years. In the early part of 
1840 he went to Texas and purchased a tract 
of land with the intention of removing his 
family to that country, but was accidentally 
drowned while bathing, about two weeks 
previous to the birth of Richard W. His 
mother died at Camden, N. J., in 1888. 
Their family consisted of five children, three 
of whom are living: Alice, widow of the late 
William Weston ; Deborah, widow of the late 
Thomas Murtha, both of whom reside in 
Philadelphia ; and Richard W. 

The latter spent his youth in his native 
city and received his education in Girard 
College. He learned the trade of fancy wood 
turning, serving an apprenticeship of six 
years at the business. He responded to the 
call of his country for volunteers and enlisted 
in the Twenty-eighth regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, which was commanded by the 



late governor of Pennsylvania, John W. 
Geary, and was assigned to company D. 
After serving three months in this regiment 
he was transferred to Independent Battery B, 
Capt. Joseph M. Knapp, Pennsylvania artil- 
lery, and served in this battery until October 
29, 1863, when he was seriously wounded at 
the battle of Wauhatchie \ r alley. He was 
taken to the hospital and, on May 18, 1864, 
he was discharged from the service on ac- 
count of disability, and returned to -Phila- 
delphia. On August 4, 1866, he was ap- 
pointed to the State arsenal by the late Gov- 
ernor Geary, and s ; nce that date has filled 
this office. He was married in Philadelphia, 
July 3, 1864, to Susan Funston. Ten chil- 
dren were born to them, five of whom died 
in infancy ; those surviving are: Catherine, 
wife of John Jones, Richard M., Margaret, 
Albert S., and Mary A., all residing in Har- 
risburg. Mr. Hayward is a member of the 
Union Veteran Legion, No. 61, and Post No. 
58, G. A. R. In political views he is a Re- 
publican. The family attend the M. E. 
church. 



Patterson, John D., mayor of Harris- 
burg, was born at Williamsburg, Blair 
county, Pa., November 1,1842. His parents 
were of that sturdy stock, Scotch-Irish, the 
representatives of which are so numerous, 
and prominent in the leadership of Ameri- 
can society. The education and training of 
children are regarded by this worthy class 
of citizens as ships of priority and promi- 
nence in promoting the public intelligence 
and virtue. The parents of Mayor Patter- 
son gave their son the advantages which 
the public schools afford, and supplemented 
these by a course of study at the academy. 
At the same time they were careful that 
some systematic and continuous industrial 
occupation should fill up the vacations and 
intervals between school terms. The result 
was a studious and industrious youth, with 
some knowledge and training and a desire 
for more. His first employment on his own 
account was farm work, in the summer 
months, and teaching school in the winter 
months. Busied at these occupations, he 
constantly grew and strengthened in body 
and niind. The war came on and opened 
to him a new field of action. He enlisted 
in the army in August, 1862, and thus be- 
came a soldier before he became a voter. 
Before he had been a month in the service, 
on September 17, 1862, he was baptized in 



320 



BIO GRA PHIGA L ENCYGL OPEDIA 



the blood of battle, on the battlefield of An- 
tietam, where he received serious injury. 
For meritorious actiou, and conduct which 
displayed the tactics and heroism of the true 
soldier, he was promoted on the field, and 
made orderly to General Kane, and also to 
General Knipe. At the end of his term of 
service he re-enlisted and served to the end 
of the war. Upon his final discharge from 
the army, July 1, 1865, he came immediately 
to Harrisburg, and entered the service of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. He 
remained with that company until Decem- 
ber 1, 1874, when he resigned his position 
for the very, best of reasons, namely : His 
elevation to the highest office within the gift 
of his fellow-citizens of Harrisburg, the 
mayoralty of the city. The acknowledg- 
ment by the public of the success of his ad- 
ministration as the chief executive of the 
city was his re-election to the office in 1876, 
and the repetition of this endorsement by 
his election to a third term of the office, in 
1878. In these elections Mr. Patterson was 
the candidate of the Republican party. 

In 1881 he was elected resident clerk of the 
House of Representatives. The compliment 
in this election was the greater because the 
majority in the House was Democratic, and 
his successor in this office was a member of 
that party, showing that he was chosen on 
the grounds of personal worth and ability, 
and not on party preference. He was 
elected sergeant-at-arms of the House of 
Representatives in 1885, 1887 and 1889. In 
December, 1889, he was appointed auditing 
clerk of the commissioners of the Soldiers' 
Orphans' Schools. This position he was 
called to give up because of the rare honor 
conferred upon him of election in February, 
1896, to a fourth term of the office of mayor. 

For many years Mr. Patterson has been a 
member of Post No. 58, G. A. R. He is also 
a member of the Improved Order of Red 
Men. The family are members of the Zion 
Lutheran church, on Fourth street, Harris- 
burg. Mr. Patterson was married in 1866, 
to Clara Morris, daughter of Israel Morris, 
of Reading, Pa. They had three children : 
Mary Emily, Jennie E., and Alice D. Mrs. 
Patterson died in 1889. 



where the former still lives ; the latter died 
July 4, 1864. Reuben Caveny, the father, is 
of Scotch-Irish extraction, and was engaged 
in mercantile pursuits at McAllisterville, 
Pa., for many years ; there he now lives, re- 
tired from business, at the advanced age of 
seventy-five years. The parents had six 
children, four of whom are living : Samuel 
B. ; Flora, wife of Winfield H. Knaus, re- 
siding in Germantown, Philadelphia; Han- 
nah L., wife of Isaac Tustin, of PhoBnixville, 
Chester county, Pa. ; Mary R., wife of 
Charles H. Halford, Germantown, Philadel- 
phia. 

Samuel B. Caveny grew to manhood and 
was educated in his native township. He 
was employed in his father's store for a time. 
Later, he was engaged in mercantile pur- 
suits at McAllisterville, Pa. In 1872 he 
began the study of dentistry with Dr. Bur- 
lin, at Port Royal. He practiced this pro- 
fession until 1883, when he was elected re- 
corder of Juniata county, and served three 
years. In 1887 he removed to Harrisburg 
and engaged in the insurance business. In 
1895 he was elected alderman of the Sec- 
ond ward, city of Harrisburg, for a term of 
five years. 

Mr. Caveny was married, at McAllister- 
ville, October 28, 1865, to Mary M. Cassell, 
of Philadelphia, daughter of Franklin and 
Eliza Cassell. Of their thirteen children 
eight are living : Franklin R., Mary Eliza- 
beth, Myrtle C, Annie, Laura S., Samuel 
Brady, Jr., Nellie 0. and Marguerite. Five 
children died in infancy. 

Mr. Caveny served as justice of the peace 
of Patterson, Juniata count}', for ten years. 
He is a member of Union Lodge, No. 324, F. 
& A. M. ; Improved Order of Red Men, 
Cornplanter Tribe, No. 61 ; David H: Wilson 
Post, G. A. R., No. 134, Mifflintown, Pa. 
He is company clerk of the Governor's 
Troop. He enlisted at McAllisterville. Sep- 
tember 8, 1862, in company D, One Hun- 
dred and Fifty-first Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and was present at the battles of Chancel- 
lorsville and Gettysburg. He was mustered 
out of service and discharged July 27, 1863. 
In political views Mr. Caveny is Republican. 
The family attend the Lutheran church. 



Caveny, Samuel Brady, alderman Sec- 
ond ward, was born in Fayette township, 
Juniata county, Pa., September 29, 1843. 
He is a son of Reuben and Mary R. (Crozier) 
Caveny, both natives of Juniata count}', 



Hoy, Francis H., was born in Manayunk, 
Philadelphia county, Pa., June 30, 1845, 
son of Robert M. and Mahola (Thomas) 
Hoy. The father was a native of Belfast, 
Ireland, and the mother, of Yorkshire, Eng- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



321 



land. The father was superintendent of a 
large cotton factory in Philadelphia county 
for many years. Robert W. Hoy, the grand- 
father, was an instructor in one of the col- 
leges in Ireland, and master of six languages. 
W. H. Thomas, the maternal grandfather, 
was professor of music and languages in his 
native city. The father died in Phila- 
delphia, January 6, 1854. His wife is still 
living and resides at Portsmouth, Ohio. 
Francis H. was the only child and was 
reared in Philadelphia up to his thirteenth 
year, when he removed to Schuylkill county, 
and in 1860 came to Harrisburg. His edu- 
cation was obtained in the public schools of 
Philadelphia, and the Boys' grammar school 
of Manayunk, from which he was transferred 
to the high school after his removal to 
Schuylkill county, after which he learned 
the barber's trade. In 1862 he enlisted in 
company A, One Hundred and Twenty- 
seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
First City Zouaves of Harrisburg, and served 
nine months; and re-enlisted in company 
C, Two Hundred and First regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers. He was promoted to 
corporal, then to sergeant, and then to color 
sergeant of the regiment, and then to a field 
position on January 21, 1865, and assigned 
to detached duty. After the war he worked 
at his trade for one year, and was then em- 
ployed by the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany for several years, in various capacities 
from brakeman to locomotive engineer. 
After this he was with the Penns} 7 lvania 
Steel Works for a time, and then resumed 
his trade at which he worked until 1891, 
when he was elected to the office of coroner 
of Dauphin county, in the administration of 
which office he proved to be one of the most 
popular officers in the State. After the 
death of Sheriff S. F. Keller, he served as 
sheriff, until the assistant was named by the 
governor. In his politics he is a Democrat. 
Mr. Hoy has been the commander of Post 
No. 58, G. A. R., and is now aide-de-camp on 
the staff of the chief commander of the 
State. On July 5, 1866, Mr. Hoy was mar- 
ried to Mary M. Kammerer, daughter of 
George Kammerer, native of Germany, 
resident of Harrisburg. His children are : 
George K., Robert W., Francis H., Jr., and 
Sarah F. The family are members of the 
Presbyterian Church. The eldest son served 
as president of the Society of Christian En- 
deavor. The second son is foreman of the 
Harrisburg Electric Light Works. 



Eby, Hon. Maurice C, ex-mayor of Har- 
risburg, was born upon the banks of the 
picturesque and beautiful Susquehanna 
river, in Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa., 
in May, 1846. His parents, Jacob Rupley 
Eby and Elizabeth Gross Eby, introduced 
their first-born into the city of his adoption, 
Harrisburg, Pa., in 1847. His career is now 
only to date from the age of maturity, hav- 
ing passed through the trials, temptations 
and vicissitudes of youth the same as any 
other city individual in this memorial epoch. 
Lafayette College claims him as one of its 
alumni. The first to enter that institution 
as a pupil of the scientific course, he parted 
from the college to take a tour of three years 
upon the continent. The greater part of the 
time was spent at Geneva, Switzerland, and 
Carlsruhe, Baden, acquiring the language, 
with plenty of leisure to visit the principle 
countries and cities of the Old World. His 
knowledge gleaned from roving and strict 
attention to objects and places of interest, 
and associations with the people, have 
furnished him with a storehouse of personal 
reminiscences, places and old landmarks of 
invaluable profit and immense benefit, as 
well as a gem to his methods of intercourse 
and business career, enabling him to make 
a comparison between his own beloved 
country and that of foreign dynasties. A 
bachelor with fixed and determined routine 
of daily life, merchant by profession, dating 
from the year 1871, of a domestic and club 
disposition, an admirer and patron of manly 
sports, upon water and land — In fact to such 
a degree that the Society for the Prevention 
of Cruelty to Animals, together with the 
the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to 
Children, appointed him their agent in this 
district, and man3 r are the complimentary 
notices accorded him for his valuable inter- 
ference and rescue of the injured and dis- 
tressed. He holds the honor gratuitously, 
and prizes it more than the gift of the ancient 
star and garter conferred by .kings and 
princesses. Mr. Eby is a charter member of 
the City Board of Trade, likewise the Penn- 
sylvania German Society, and an active 
member of Dauphin County Historical 
Society. In 1893 he permitted his name to 
go before the public as a candidate for the 
position of chief magistrate of the city, and 
the result of the count proclaimed him 
mayor, which office he held for a period of 
three years, and we quote from his closing 
address to the councils : " My purpose in the 



322 



Bl GRA P EI GAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



future will be to live in our community as a 
citizen, obeying all the laws of the Common- 
wealth and ordinances of the city, deter- 
mined to accomplish a good deed daily, and 
make a blade of grass to grow where none 
grew before." 



. Jackson, George W., alderman, was born 
in Baltimore county, Md., July 18, 1846, son 
of John and Rachel (Barton) Jackson. His 
father was a farmer and died at Greenup, 111. 
His mother died in Baltimore city about 1885. 
They had five children : George W. ; Mary, 
wife of Joseph Willoughby, residing in Bal- 
timore ; Sarah, wife of William Arthur, of 
Baltimore; Alexander, of Ellwood, Ind.; 
Eliza, wife of Robert Mummert, Baltimore. 
George W., when seven years old, removed 
with his parents to Greenup, Cumberland 
county, 111., when he attended school lor five 
years. When twelve years old his father 
died, and he returned with his mother to 
Baltimore county, and completed his educa- 
tion in the public schools. He learned the 
trade of machinist and in 1867 removed to 
Harrisburg, and followed his occupation for 
five years. In 1872 he was elected alderman 
for the Ninth ward, and was the youngest 
man ever elected to the office. Mr. Jackson 
was married in Baltimore, Md., in 1868, to 
Elmira Bond, daughter of Thomas and Sarah 
Bond, natives of Baltimore. They have one 
daughter, Elma L. Mr. Jackson is secretary 
of Dauphin Lodge, No. 1 60, I. 0. 0. F., and 
of Dauphin Encampment, No. 10. His poli- 
tical views are Republican. The family at- 
tend the Pine Street Presbyterian church. 



Landis, Aaron M., alderman, Sixth ward, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Newville, 
Cumberland county, Pa., July 19, 1848. 
He is a son of Jacob and Margaret Ann 
(Houer) Landis, both natives of Cumber- 
land county. These parents had a fa-oiily 
of six children : Catherine, wife of Washing- 
ton Parthemore ; Mary Ellen, wife of Will- 
iam Snow ; George A., Aaron M., John E., 
and Maggie E., wife of Samuel Heberlig. 

Aaron M. Landis received his education 
in the public schools of Green Springs, New- 
ton township, Cumberland county. March 
4, 1864, he enlisted in company I, One Hun- 
dred and Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, and served until August 5, 1865, when 
he was mustered out at Harrisburg, and re- 
turned to his home. He learned carpentry 
and worked at this business until 1875. In 



that year he was appointed to a place on 
the Harrisburg police force, and served 
twelve years and three months ; two years 
as patrolman, six years as sergeant, six 
months as lieutenant, and three years and 
nine months as chief. In 1887 he was ap- 
pointed as special officer of the Pennsylvania 
railroad. In May, 1894, he was elected 
alderman for the Sixth ward. 

He was married at Newville, January 6, 
1868, to Margaret E. Diehl, daughter of 
Elias and Eliza (Killian) Diehl, of Cumber- 
land county. Four of their seven children 
died in infancy; three are living, namely: 
Charles E., reporter for the Evening Telegraph; 
Carrie I., and Annie M., residing at home. 
Mr. Landis is a member of Post No. 116, G. 
A. R., also of the Knights of Honor. He is 
a Republican. The family attend the "Lu- 
theran church. 



Hall, Samuel S., alderman of the Seventh 
ward, Harrisburg, was born in Middlesex 
township, Cumberland county, Pa., March 
27, 1849. He is a son of Moses and Cath- 
erine (Orris) Hall. He suffered the loss of 
both his parents by death, when he was a 
child, and was thrown among relatives and 
strangers. His education in these conditions 
was of necessity limited. He was obliged to 
rely upon his own efforts for getting knowl- 
edge and information to qualify him for the 
duties of life. He became an apprentice to 
the carpenter trade, and followed this occu- 
pation for thirteen years, eleven of which 
were spent in the Harrisburg car shops. 
During the years 1880-1 he represented 
the Seventh ward in the common council. 
Duringthe years 1885-6-7 he was school tax 
collector for the Second, Seventh, Eighth and 
Ninth wards. In April, 1887, he was ap- 
pointed on the Harrisburg police force, and 
served continuously on the force until May 

I, 1895, when he was elected alderman for 
the Seventh ward, the office he now holds. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, January 

II, 1875, to Amanda Feass, daughter of 
Henry and Dorothy Feass, natives of Ger- 
many, but for many years residents of Har- 
risburg. Of their eight children three died 
in infancy. The living children are: Harry, 
born December 19, 1876 ; Blanche E., born 
April 18, 1879; Bertha M., born July 3, 
1881 : John A. F., born July 8, 1890, and 
Samuel Z., born December 31, 1893. Those 
dead are : Lillie D., died September 26, 1875 ; 




"^A~v^V^*nrvvMA 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



325 



Lulu W., died May 5, 1887; and Beulah J., 
died September 20, 1888. 

Mr. Hall is a member of State Capitol 
Lodge No. 70, I. 0. 0. F., and Dauphin 
Castle No. 250, K. G. E. In politics he 
affiliates with the Democratic party. The 
family attend the M. E. church ; Mr. Hall 
attends the Lutheran church. 



Zarker, Andrew U., was born in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 13, 1850. He is a son of Benjamin 
and Catherine (Fohler) Zarker. His father 
was born in Derry township, Dauphin 
county, and was a son of John Zarker, a 
native of Germany, and one of the early 
settlers of Derry township. Benjamin 
Zarker was a lieutenant of cavalry in the war 
of 1812. He was a farmer of Lower Paxton 
township, and served as supervisor of his 
township. He was an active member of the 
Lutheran church. He had twelve children, 
five of whom are living : David, of Harris- 
burg; Henry, ofTopeka, Kan.; Andrew U., 
Susan (Mrs. Simon Duey), of Harrisburg; 
Lucy (Mrs. David Mumma), of Harrisburg. 

Andrew U. Zarker was reared on a farm 
and educated in the township schools. He 
learned carpentry in Harrisburg, became 
foreman for Henry Shoop, and filled the 
same position for Mr. Cowden in the planing 
mill for five years. He then engaged for 
himself in architecture, contracting and 
building, which he continued for thirteen 
years; he erected many of the best business 
blocks in the city. He was, after this, en- 
gaged for four years in the grocery business. 

In 1891 Mr. Zarker was appointed high- 
way commissioner of Harrisburg, and served 
three years. In 1887 he organized the East 
Harrisburg Building and Loan Association, 
and is now its president. He was instru- 
mental in the reorganization of the Farmers' 
Market Company, and has been its president 
since its organization. He has served two 
terms as representative of the Ninth ward in 
common council, and two terms as ward as- 
sessor. He is vice-president of the Mt. 
Pleasant Fire Companv. He is a member 
of the K. of G. E., the" Knights of Brother- 
hood, the Junior O. U. A. M., and of Lodge 
No. 708, I. O. O. F. 

Andrew U. Zarker was married, in 1871, to 
Miss Hannah, daughter of David Miller, of 
Juniata county, Pa., by whom he has one 
child, Tillie M. He is an active member of 
Christ Lutheran church ; is superintendent 
25 



of the Sunday-school, and teaches a male 
Sunday-school class of one hundred and 
twenty-five members; has served as deacon, 
and as president of the Young People's 
Society of Christian Endeavor. He is a great 
lover of music, and has an organized orches- 
tra in the church. 

Mr. Zarker is interested and prominent in 
athletic sports, and is a good "wing shot." 
He is a member of the West End Gun Club. 
Zarker street in Harrisburg received its name 
from him. He laid out the street, and has 
built many houses on it. He has also 
erected many houses in other parts of the 
city. Mr. Zarker is a staunch Democrat ; 
be organized the A. U. Zarker Democratic 
Club in 1888, and carried it on successfully 
through the campaigns of 1888 and 1892. 



Anderson, Samuel J., ex-chief of the Har- 
risburg police force, was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., April 16, 1850. He is a son of 
John E. and Sarah W. (Malone) Anderson, 
both natives of this State, the former of 
Scotch and the latter of Irish ancestry. 
His parents had born to them twelve chil- 
dren, six of whom are living: William K., 
a general agent at Mechanicsburg, Pa. ; Bella 
H, wife of Willis G. Kauffman, of Harris- 
burg; Annie E., wife of Rev. Adam A. Wolfe, 
residing at Keithburg, 111.; Samuel J.; Par- 
ker D., residing at Harrisburg; and Ida M., 
wife of Joseph Gephart, residing at Philips- 
burg, Kan. 

Samuel J. received his education in the 
schools of his native town. He learned the 
trade of millwright, and followed this occu- 
pation until 1870. In this year he came to 
Harrisburg and became chief lumber in- 
spector for the Harrisburg Car Manufactur- 
ing Company, holding the position for three 
years. For the next two years he was not 
engaged in an}' special vocation. In 1875 
he was appointed special police officer for 
the city of Harrisburg, and occupied the 
position for four years. In 1879 he was ap- 
pointed county detective, under Eli Hul- 
linger, who was at that time district 
attorney. He served in this capacit}' until 
January 1, 1881. when he resigned this 
position. For the following thirteen years 
he conducted a private detective bureau. 
On January 1,1894, he was appointed to the 
position of chief of police. 

Mr. Anderson has been twice married. His 
first wife was Miss Zell, to whom he was 
united in marriage at Holly, Pa! She died 



326 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



at Harrisburg, April 11, 1872. The only 
child of this marriage is Charles E., born 
August 13, 1871. He was married again in 
August, 1875, to Catherine Lutz. There are 
no children by this marriage. 

Mr. Anderson has also served as marshal 
of the Eastern district of Pennsylvania, with 
headquarters at Philadelphia. He is a mem- 
ber of City Lodge, No. 301, I. 0. 0. F., and 
Encampment No. 301. In political views he 
affiliates with the Democrats. The family 
attend the Presbyterian church. 

Mr. Anderson was careful, faithful and just 
in his duties as an officer and popular 
with the men on the force, as well as with 
the citizens, who regarded him as a courage- 
ous and courteous officer and a worthy man. 



Noblet, Newton E., clerk of county com- 
missioners, was born in Halifax, then town- 
ship, now borough. May 28, 1850, son of 
Samuel and Susan (Ettien) Noblet. The 
father was born in Halifax township. Four 
brothers emigrated from the north of Ire- 
land and settled in Delaware. One of them, 
Joseph, separated from the others and came 
to Dauphin county and entered a tract of 
land in Halifax township, and reared a 
family of seven sons, of whom the father of 
Newton E. was the youngest, having been 
born in 1813. He was a cabinet maker by 
trade, and also an undertaker. He was a 
member of the first council of the borough, 
voting with the Democratic party until the 
organization of the Republican party, when 
he united witli that political body. His 
wife died February 22, 1894, and both were 
members of the Methodist Episcopal church. 
Their children were: Sarah, Mrs. Thomas 
Leibrick, of Halifax; Newton E. ; John, of 
New Buffalo. Perry county, Pa.; Elizabeth, • 
Mrs. J. J. Roust, of Halifax ; Samuel R., a 
painter, of Halifax. Newton E. was edu- 
cated in the schools of Halifax and was a 
teacher in the borough and township for 
seventeen years. In 1889 he was appointed 
postmaster of Halifax, and served in the 
office four years and four months. He was 
one of the organizers of the Halifax Shoe 
and Manufacturing Company, in which he 
has been the treasurer since Mr. Lodge va- 
cated the office. He served six years as a 
member of the school board, and for four 
years as the secretary of the board. In his 
political views he is a Republican, and in 
1895 was appointed clerk of the board of 
county commissioners. Mr. Noblet is a 



stockholder in the Halifax Bank, of which 
his father was one of the organizers. He is 
a member and trustee of the Halifax Lodge, 
P. O. S. of A. Mr. Noblet was married 
to Miss Mary E. Spiese, of Halifax, by whom 
lie has one child, Harry S. The family 
attends the Methodist Episcopal church, of 
Halifax. 



Miller, Charles A., city clerk of Harris- 
burg, and clerk of the common council, was 
born at Harrisburg, June 28, 1850. He is a 
son of Francis Xavier (more generally known 
as X.) Miller and Elizabeth (McMillan) 
Miller. His grandfather Miller was a na- 
tive of Switzerland, and spent his life in his 
native land. His father, Francis X., was 
born in Tagerfelden, Canton Aargau, Switz- 
erland. He came to America in 1842, and 
located in New York City, where he worked 
at his trade of shoemakiug for three years. 
In 1845 he removed to Harrisburg, and en- 
gaged in business on his own account. He 
was well known as "X. Miller, the French 
boot and shoe maker." He was an expert 
at his business, having learned the trade in 
Paris, and did an extensive business for 
those days.. Elizabeth A. (McMillan) Miller, 
mother of Charles A., was born at Round 
Top, Dauphin county, Pa., January 22, 1825. 
His parents were married at Harrisburg, in 
1847, and had fourteen children, four only of 
whom lived to maturity : Charles A., Mar- 
cellus I., Francis X. and Clotilda Regina, 
wife of Capt. H. A. Perkins, late of the Gov- 
ernor's Troop, and now residing in New York 
City. She was born March 28, 1852, and 
died September 17, 1892. 

Charles A. Miller received his education 
in the public schools and academy of Har- 
isburg, and is a graduate of the latter. His 
whole life has been spent in this city. He 
learned printing with the late George Berg- 
ner, and continued in this business for 
twenty years. In 1881 he was appointed 
foreman of the Harrisburg Telegraph, and 
efficiently filled this position until 1885. In 
that year he was elected to the State Legisla- 
ture, and resigned his business position, that 
he might be free to devote his time and 
strength to the duties of his office. In 
March, 1887, Mr. Miller introduced the Star 
carpet cleaning business in Harrisburg, 
which was a new process for cleaning carpets. 
He continued in that business for four years. 
In 1891 he w r as appointed clerk of the com- 
mon council, and shortly afterwards was 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



327 



elected city clerk, in joint convention ; he is 
the first and only person who has ever filled 
that office. In addition to these offices Mr. 
Miller was also a member of the common 
council from 1880 to 1883, and in 1882 was 
chosen president of that body. He was a 
member of the select council from April, 
1883, to December, 1884, resigning this 
office when elected to the Legislature. He 
was the first chairman of the joint commit- 
tee of councils for arranging for the centen- 
nial celebration in 1885. He again served 
in the common council during 1888-89. 

Mr. Miller was married at Harrisburg, 
October 16, 1879, to Rebecca Mauger, daugh- 
ter of Henry and Mary (Hummel) Mauger, 
born at Harrisburg, November 28, 1856. 
They have two daughters: Anna M., born 
December 28, 1880, and Mary Regina, born 
March 7, 1885. In political views Mr. 
Miller is a good staunch Republican. The 
family attend the Messiah Lutheran church. 



German, John W., was born in Harris- 
burg, October 27, 1851. He is the son of 
Emanuel S. German, who was born in Har- 
risburg in 1821, whose father, Philip Ger- 
man, a native of Germany, came to Harris- 
burg in 1800, and established a brewery, 
celebrated for its " Cream Beer," and con- 
ducted it for many years. 

Emanuel German, father of the subject of 
this sketch, established the first exclusively 
religious bookstore in the United States, at 
Harrisburg, in 1841 or 1842, and conducted 
it till 1878, when he was succeeded by his 
sons. He carried a stock of strictly church 
and Sabbath-school literature and his store 
was the headquarters of theological students. 
He lives retired from active life. He was 
first a Democrat, but upon the organization 
of the Republican party he joined that po- 
litical organization, and has remained with it 
until the present time. He is a member of 
the Lutheran church. He married Sarah 
Jane Westfall, whose father came from Alle- 
gheny, and who was the proprietor for many 
years' of the celebrated Black Tavern of 
Harrisburg, and who died in this city. 
They had seven children: Philip, of the 
Harrisburg bookstore; Sarah E., wife of 
Rev. J. S. Detweiler; John W.; Luther ,W., 
dentist, of Louisville; James W., auditor of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, at 
Pittsburgh ; Grace H., wife of Orville Cham- 
berlin, of New Orleans, La. ; Charles H. H., 



of Louisville, Ky., book-keeper ; one daugh- 
ter, Mary E., died in 1863. 

John W. was reared in this city, and was 
educated in the public schools. He learned 
the trade of printer and subsequently en- 
tered his father's store, and became book- 
keeper. In 1878 he and his brother suc- 
ceeded to their father's business, and con- 
tinued it to 1882, when he went to Dakota. 
Returning to Philadelphia in seven months, 
lie became agent for the Travellers' Insur- 
ance Company, of Hartford, Conn. In 1884 
he was appointed special agent of the Mu- 
tual Life Insurance Company, of New York. 
January 12, 1886, he became one of the or- 
ganizers of the Harrisburg Board of Trade, 
was elected the third secretary of the same, 
and has served in that office uninterrupted^ 
since 1889. He was prominent in locating 
the Lalance & Grosjean Manufacturing Com- 
pany and other industries in this city. Mr. 
German is prominently identified with the 
P. 0. S. of A. He is active in the Republi- 
can party. He was married in 1877 to Miss 
Ida M.Wright, daughter of Theodore Wright, 
editor-in-chief of the Philadelphia Record. 
They had two children : Helen I., deceased, 
December 7, 1895, and John W., Jr. They 
are members of the Lutheran church. 



Cowden, Matthew B., city engineer, was 
born in Susquehanna township, December 
1, 1851. He is a son of John W. and Mary 
E. (Hatton 1 ) Cowden, both natives of Dauphin 
county, where they spent their lives, and 
where they died in 1872. The father was a 
civil engineer, and served as city surveyor 
of Harrisburg for a number of years. He 
and his wife had nine children, eight of 
whom are still living : Margaret, wife of 
Samuel N. Hamilton, of Beaver count} 7 , Pa. ; 
Frederick H., of Harrisburg; Sarah, wife of 
Homer H. Cummins, of Harrisburg; Eliza- 
beth B., wife of Matthew Beck, of New Jersey ; 
Matthew B.; Ellen J., wife of Stephen 
Hubertis, of Harrisburg ; Josephine W., of 
Harrisburg. and W. K. 

Matthew B. Cowden came to Harrisburg 
when he was five years old. He was edu- 
cated in the city schools, and also attended 
the Polytechnic College of Pennsylvania, 
from which he was graduated in 1872. He 
engaged in the work of civil engineering, 
serving for one year with the Texas Pacific 
railroad, in Texas, since which he has beeu 
employed in this occupation in Harrisburg. 
He was elected city engineer in 1874, and 



328 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



for twenty-one years he has performed the 
work of this office with skill and fidelity. 
Mr. Cowden was married in Harrisburg, in 
1875, to Mary H. Buehler, daughter of Charles 
and Sarah Buehler, a native of Dauphin 
county. Two children have been born to 
them: Nellie E., deceased, and Edward C, 
born in 1879. Mr. Cowden is a member of 
State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 0. 0. F. In 
political views he is a Republican. The 
family attend Zion Lutheran church. 

Buser, H. Wells, ex-sheriff, was born in 
Hummelstown, November 12, 1853. He is a 
son of Jacob and Eliza (Gish) Buser. The 
father was a native of Londonderry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., the mother of 
Hummelstown. The father was a butcher, 
and carried on his business at Hummels- 
town for forty-five years. He was a promi- 
nent man, an active politician in the Demo- 
cratic party, a member of the. Odd Fellows, 
and belonged to the Reformed church. He 
died in September, 1891. His wife survives 
him. They had twelve children : George, 
of Harrisburg. butcher; Annie, wife of Harry 
Crist, of Steelton; Ellen, wife of David Yet- 
ter, of Steelton; Martha, wife of Joseph 
Fletcher, of Steelton; John, of Steelton; 
Adeline, wife of James Geiger, of Harris- 
burg ; H. Wells; Ida, wife of H. W. Solo- 
mon, of Harrisburg ; Jennie, wife of Jacob 
Hummel; Alice, wife of Chris. Coalmer, of 
Philadelphia; Curtiss, of Hummelstown, and 
Margaret. 

H. Wells Buser received his education in 
his native town. He learned the moulder's 
trade, but did not follow this occupation. 
He was elected to the office of constable for 
a term of six years. He served as post- 
master for four years and two months dur- 
ing Cleveland's administration. He was 
clerk of the Democratic State Committee in 
the Pattison campaign. He was clerk in 
the adjutant general's office, and served 
until September 1, 1892. He was appointed 
by the governor to fill the office of sheriff, 
made vacant by the death of Sheriff Keller. 
He was one of the organizers, and is a stock- 
holder of the Water Company of Hummels- 
town ; one of the organizers and a stock- 
holder of the American Publishing Associa- 
tion, of Pittsburgh. Mr. Buser is a member 
of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 0. 0. F. ; 
past national representative in Junior Order 
American Mechanics five years, and past 
State officer for three years. In politics he 



is a Democrat, and was secretary of the 
county committee for thirteen years. 

H. Wells Buser was married, in 1876, to 
Miss Sarah E. Hummel, of Hummelstown. 
They have six children : Frank D., Harry 
W., Edith, Lulu, Grover C. and William 
McC. He is a member of the Reformed 
church of Hummelstown. 



Rudy,C. Landts, ice dealer and ex-president 
of select council, was born near Harrisburg, 
July 7, 1856. He is a son of Joseph and 
Esther (Landis) Rudy. His grandfather 
Rudy was a native of Zurich, Switzerland. 
He was driven from his native land with 
others by religious persecution. He settled 
in Lebanon county, Pa., at a very early date 
in the history of the county. The parents of 
C. Landis were both born in Dauphin county, 
Pa. The mother died September 14, 1870 ; 
the father is still living, retired and resides 
at East Mere. He was twice married. To 
the first marriage there were born nine 
children, namely : John, a prominent farmer 
of Lower Paxton township; Frances, wife of 
Reuben H. Althouse, residing in Harrisburg; 
Elizabeth, wife of Benjamin Strickler, of Pen- 
brook, Pa., deceased ; Joseph Rudy, Jr., a 
prominent farmer of Susquehanna township ; 
Sarah A., wife of Walter Trullinger, residing 
in Susquehanna township ; Nettie E., widow 
of the late Dr. D. R. Hocker, residing at East 
Mere; C. Landis; Mary A., wife of George 
Hain, residing in Harrisburg; and Abraham 
F., residing in Philadelphia. His second 
wife, who still survives, was Barbara Mumma, 
and to this second marriage there was 
born one child, Jonas M., stenographer, of 
Harrisburg. 

C. Landis Rudy was educated in the pub- 
lic schools and Professor Seiler's academy, of 
Harrisburg. He also attended the Dickinson 
Business College, of which he is a graduate. 
In 1874 he engaged in the ice business, 
which he has conducted for over twenty 
years. He is also extensively engaged in 
buying and selling land, and ranks among 
the most prosperous and progressive business 
men of the city. He was married in Harris- 
burg, October 22, 1879, to Miss Belle M. 
Brittain, daughter of Samuel and Melinda 
(Brittain) Brittain, of English and Scotch- 
Irish ancestry, the former deceased, the latter 
living and residing with Mr. Rudy. To 
them have been born five children, only one 
of whom is living, namely, Marguerite B., 
born May, 1887. In political views Mr. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



329 



Rudy is a Republican, and has been an 
active worker in the ranks of the party for 
the past eighteen years. The family attend 
the Salem Reformed church. 



Black, Alfred T., ex-treasurer of the city 
of Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Harrisburg, 
October 26, 1856. He is a son of Abraham 
K. and Rebecca (Clark) Black. He received 
his education in the public schools and the 
Harrisburg Academy. He learned brick- 
laying of his father and uncle, and followed 
this business from 1S72 to 1885, when he 
was elected to the office of city treasurer. 
He was re-elected for four successive terms, 
and performed the duties of the office with 
great credit to himself and with the utmost 
satisfaction to the public. 

In 1877 Mr. Black joined the Hope Fire 
Engine Company, and has since taken an 
active interest in the fire department of the 
city. In 1886 he was elected president of 
the company. In 1890 he was elected presi- 
dent of the State Firemen's Association of 
Pennsj'lvania, and represented the State as- 
sociation in the National convention of fire- 
men, at Louisville, Ky., in 1892. In politics 
he is* an active Republican, and takes a great 
interest in all matters pertaining to the 
party. He is a member of the Masonic fra- 
ternity, Chapter, Commandery, and Consis- 
tory, and Lulu Temple of the Mystic 
Shrine ; of the Independent Order of Odd 
Fellows, of the Junior Order of United 
American Mechanics, the Knights of Honor, 
Red Men, etc. 

Alfred T. Black was married in January, 
1877, to Miss Mary E. Fager, daughter of 
Albert J. Fager, of Harrisburg, by whom he 
has three children : Andrew K., Alexander 
Ramsey Speel, and Robert Fager. 

Mr. Black is a member and one of the or- 
ganizers of " The Club," and is on the gov- 
erning committee of the same. He and his 
wife attend the M. E. church. 



Brubaker, Charles J., chief clerk to the 
county commissioners, was born in the bor- 
ough of Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa., 
October 10, 1857. He is a son of Henry and 
Mary R. (Sharamo) Brubaker. Jacob Bru- 
baker, the grandfather of Charles J., was a 
native of Lancaster county, Pa. He settled 
in Halifax township, Dauphin county, and 
engaged in farming. He was a member of 
theM. E. church. He had nine children: 
Joseph, John, Jacob, Isaac, Henry, Hiram, 



Benjamin, and two daughters, all of whom 
are deceased, except Henry. Henry Bru- 
baker, father of Charles J., was born in Hali- 
fax township. He has been engaged 
in farming and in boating on the Wi- 
conisco canal. He and his six brothers 
owned and conducted boats on that canal 
for many years. He has served two terms 
as supervisor of Halifax township, and is 
now serving his third term in that office, in 
the borough. He belongs to Charity Lodge, 
I. 0. 0. F., and to Camp No. 576, Patriotic 
Sons of America. He is one of the original 
stockholders in the Halifax Shoe Company. 
His wife is a member of the M. E. church. 
They had five children : Samuel L., travel- 
ing for the Pennsylvania Steel Works; 
Amaza S., Ella F., Annie L. and Charles J. 
Charles J. Brubaker is the eldest of his 
father's children. He was educated in the 
public schools. He read medicine with Dr. 
H. R. Casslon, of Halifax, and was graduated 
from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, 
Baltimore, Md., in 1882, but never practiced 
medicine. He became paymaster and time- 
keeper for the Phcenix Bridge Company, 
Phoenixville, Pa., and remained with that 
company four years. January 1, 1891, he 
became assistant clerk to the county com- 
missioners, and in 1892 was appointed chief 
clerk to that body, which position he has 
since filled with credit. He is a member of 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., 
the Harrisburg Consistory, and the Rajah 
Temple of Reading, Pa. ; City Lodge, No. 
301, I. O. 0. F.; A. O. U. W., and Camp No. 
576, P. 0. S. A., of Halifax. He is an active 
Republican. In early life he served as page 
in the United States House of Representatives. 



Melick, John P., prothonotary, was born 
in Petersburg, Huntingdon county, August 
18, 1858. He is a son of Rev. J. A. and 
Emeline (Patchin) Melick, the former born 
in Light Street, Columbia county, Pa,, the 
latter in New York State. Rev. Melick had 
three children by his first wife: Mary M., 
wife of G. Benson Dunmire, of Philadelphia; 
John B., and Miss Emma, residing in Har- 
risburg. He married, secondly, Miss Emily 
Dunmire, who survives, and resides in Har- 
risburg. Rev. Melick, who was a minister 
in the Methodist Episcopal Church, died 
March 22, 1886. A sketch of him appears 
elsewhere in this volume. 

John P. received his primary education 
in public and private schools, and from 1871 



330 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



to 1874 attended Dickinson Seminary, of 
Williainsport, Pa., and during 1875 and part 
of 1876 he was a student at Dickinson Col- 
lege, Carlisle, Pa. In 1881 he entered the 
office of the prothonotary at Harrisburg, 
under Ehrman B. Mitchell, and remained in 
the office also during the term of office of 
William H. Ulrich, who succeeded Mr. Mit- 
chell. In November, 1891, he was nominated 
and elected prothonotary on the Republican 
ticket by a majority of 4,483, and in 1893 
was re-elected by a majority of 6,067. 

He was married in Harrisburg, October 
20, 1887, to Miss Elizabeth K. Black, daugh- 
ter of Joseph M. and Charlotte Black, of 
Harrisburg, and to their union has been 
born one child, Joseph B., who was born 
December 15, 1888. Mr. Melick is a director 
of the Harrisburg Preserving Company, and 
he and Mrs. Melick are consistent members 
of the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Holler, Henry F., deputy prothonotary 
of Dauphin county, was born at New Mar- 
ket, York county, Pa., September 10, 1860, 
son of Charles and Rebecca (Mathias) Holler. 
His parents settled in Hummelstown in 1876, 
and the father engaged in the coal, wood 
and feed business, which he is still conducting. 
Their children are : Sarah, Henry F., Charles 
I., William H., and LeRoy O. The father is 
a Republican in politics and has been a 
school director for three terms. The family 
attend the U. B. church. Henry F. removed 
with his parents, when he was ten years old, 
to Dauphin county, and was educated in the 
public schools of Hummelstown. He was 
engaged with his father in business until 
the spring of 1888, at which time he was ap- 
pointed deputy prothonotary of Dauphin 
county, and took up his duties at Harrisburg. 
Mr. Holler is a member of Hummelstown 
Lodge, No. 40, United American Mechanics. 
He is a Republican in politics, and attends 
the U. B. Church. 



Middleton, William H., city solicitor of 
Harrisburg, was born in Newville, Cumber- 
land count} 7 , Pa., January 25, 1861, son of 
William and Mary E. Middleton, the former 
a native of Cumberland county, Pa., the lat- 
ter of Hagerstown, Md. The father was 
born near Newville, in 1830, and removed 
to Harrisburg, where he has since been en- 
gaged in the manufacture of writing fluids. 
For the past five years he has also conducted 
the mineral springs and summer hotel at 



Newville, Pa. His children are: William 
H.; Margaret, wife of Charles P. Lusk, coal, 
wood and ice dealer, of Harrisburg ; Mollie, 
died in 1881, after reaching maturity, and 
two children who died in infancy. The 
The family attends the Lutheran church. 
William H. when two years old removed 
with his parents to Harrisburg, where he 
has since been a continuous resident. He 
was educated in the city schools, read law 
with Ex -Judge Thomas S. Hargest, was ad- 
mitted to the Dauphin county bar, and was 
later admitted to practice in the United 
States Circuit Court, United States Court of 
Appeals and United States Supreme Court, 
and since his admission has been engaged 
in a general practice at Harrisburg. In 
1889 Mr. Middleton was elected a member 
of the school board, in which he served as 
chairman of the finance committee, and was 
re-elected to the board in 1892 and resigned. 
In 1892 he was elected to the office of city 
solicitor and was re-elected in 1894. He 
also was a notary public from 1886 to 1894. 
Mr. Middleton was married, November 22, 
1888, to Laura L. Sherk, a native of Dau- 
phin county, by whom he has one son, Will- 
iam S., born February 4, 1892. Mr.' and 
Mrs. Middleton attend the Presbyterian 
church. 



Walter, Charles P., alderman Eighth 
ward, Harrisburg, was born near Milltown, 
York county, Pa., May 8, 1863. He is a son 
of Henry and Angeline (Mosher) Walter. 
His mother died in 1872; his father still 
lives, and resides in Harrisburg. Their 
family consists of five children, namely : 
Henry G., Charles P., Jacob, Edgar, and 
Elmer. 

Charles P. came to Harrisburg with his 
parents when he was three years of age, and 
received his education in the public schools 
of Harrisburg. After leaving school he en- 
gaged in the butchering business and live 
stock dealing. He is still conducting the 
most extensive business of this kind in 
Central Pennsylvania,underthefirm name of 
Walter Bros. In 1889 Mr. Walter was elected 
alderman by a majority of one hundred and 
five votes, and was the first alderman ever 
elected from the Eighth ward on the Demo- 
cratic ticket. In 1894 he was re-elected by 
a majority of four hundred and eighty-six 
votes. In 1893 he was a candidate for 
nomination for mayor of Harrisburg, but 
was defeated by M. C. Eby by one hundred 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



and seventy-eight votes. He is a careful and 
faithful officer, and has all the qualifica- 
tions for a skillful and successful politician. 
He owes much of his popularity to his genial 
manners. He was married at Harrisburg, Oc- 
tober 7. 1891, to Elizabeth Foley, the daughter 
of Edmund and Ellen Foley. To them have 
been born three children : Victor Ignatius, 
Charles Patrichia, Jr., and Elenora Esther. 
Mr. Walter is a member of Bayard Lodge, No. 
150, K. of P. ; Peace and Plenty Lodge, No. 
68, I. 0. 0. F.; St. John's Castle, No. 25, 
K. M. C; Camp No. 25, P. 0. S. A.; Fulton 
Council, 0. U. A. M. He is an active mem- 
ber of the Harrisburg Volunteer Fire Depart- 
ment, and for ten years a member of the 
State Firemen's Association and Firemen's 
Union of Harrisburg. He is a member of the 
Board of Trade. He is also one of the uni- 
formed rank, Knights of Pythias. He is 
an active and zealous worker in the Demo- 
cratic party, and was nominated for the 
office of mayor by his party in 1896, after 
one of the hardest political battles ever 
waged in the city. He was defeated for 
election, being betrayed by those who owe 
their political existence to his efforts. 



Kennedy, George G., secretary of the 
board of water commissioners, was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., November 12, 1864. He is 
a son of James L. and Martha (Barnard) 
Kennedy. The ancestors were natives of 
Juniata county, where the parents of George 
G. were born, and resided in Mifflin town 
until 1859, at which date they removed to 
Harrisburg. James L. was educated in the 
public schools of Juniata county and learned 
the trade of a tailor in Mifflintown. When 
about twenty-one years of age he entered 
the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, with which he has since been 
continuously connected, being at present a 
passenger engineer. He is a member of the 
select council from the Sixth ward. He mar- 
ried Miss Martha Barnard, of Juniata county, 
Pa., by whom he had three children. 

George G. Kennedy, the eldest son of James 
L., was born in Harrisburg, November 12, 
1864. After completing his education, which 
he acquired in the public schools, he became 
an apprentice to the jewelry business with 
George A. Hutman, and continued in this 
business until he was twenty-seven years of 
age, when he engaged in business several 
years for himself in this city. 

On May 2, 1892, he was appointed secre- 



tary of the board of commissioners, water 
and light department, which position he 
still efficiently and faithfully fills. He is a 
member of the B. P. 0. E., the I. 0. R. M., 
and the Knights of Malta. 

He was married in Harrisburg, June 6, 
1894, to Miss Flora, daughter of Joseph and 
Elizabeth Van Ormer, natives of Juniata 
county, but at present honored residents of 
Harrisburg. Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy attend 
Messiah Lutheran church. 

Mr. Kennedy is possessed of sound judg- 
ment and unimpeachable integrity, has a 
clear record and has given the taxpayers 
conscientious service. Though the rapid 
increase of the j^opulation of the city has 
imposed additional labor upon him he 
never complains. Since he was old enough 
to know the difference between the various 
political parties Mr. Kennedy has always 
been with the Republicans. Long before he 
was of age he was a worker for the older 
members of the ward and precinct commit- . 
tees, and so valuable were his services that 
he has been connected with the precinct 
committee since he cast his first vote. He 
has also served faithfully as secretary of the 
city committee, and never held an office in 
the gift of the people until elected to his 
present position. Mr. Kennedy is com- 
manding in appearance, popular in every 
walk of life and he has a prosperous future 
before him. 



Painter, Ebenezer Greenough, was born 
in Sunbury, Pa., September 26, 1826. He is 
a son of Thomas and Susan (Israel) Painter, 
and grandson of John Painter, pioneer of 
Northumberland county. His great-grand- 
father, with two brothers, immigrated to 
America from Germany before the Revolu- 
tion, and the grandfather, John Painter, 
served as a captain in that struggle for inde- 
pendence. The grandfather, John Painter, 
married Catherine Taggart, daughter of 
David Taggart, of Northumberland, Pa., and 
after living sometime in Philadelphia settled 
in Chillisquaque township, Northumberland 
county. Their children were: Thomas, 
Mary, John, Elizabeth, William, Catherine, 
Jacob, and Rebecca, all deceased. Thomas 
was born in 1785 and after reaching his ma- 
jority was for several years clerk in a store 
in the town of Northumberland. In 1812- 
15 he was sheriff of the county, and served in 
the Legislature in 1822-23. In 1S27, remov- 
ing to Bloomsburg, he purchased theColum- 



332 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



bia county Register, and conducted that 
paper until 1843. He was justice of the 
peace in Bloomsburg for about forty years. 
His death occurred in February, 1862. In 
1812 Mr. Thomas Painter married Susan, 
daughter of Gen. Joseph Israel, of Newcastle, 
Del., a veteran of the Revolution. The 
mother died in Bloomsburg, Columbia 
county, in July, 1845; her husband survived 
until February, 1862, and died in Muncy, 
Lycoming county, whither he had removed. 
They had sixteen children, eight of whom 
grew to maturity. They are Joseph Israel, 
born in September, 1813, and died February 
8, 1830 ; John, born in 1814, and died in 
1890 ; William P. I., born in 1818, and died 
in 1895; Mary Elizabeth, born in 1820; 
George Latimer Israel, born September 11, 
1822, and died in June, 1893 ; Abigail Green- 
ough, born in 1825, and died August 10, 
1869; Ebenezer Greenough, born September 
26, 1826 ; and Susan Catharine, born Octo- 
ber 26, 1831, wife of Rev. William Weaver, 
No. 1605 South Broad street, Philadelphia. 

Ebenezer G. Painter was educated in the 
private schools of Bloomsburg. After leav- 
ing school he learned chairmakingand paint- 
ing, subsequently he worked for some time 
as a carpenter. He left Bloomsburg, and 
lived eleven years at Mauch Chunk ; in No- 
vember, 1862, he removed to Harrisburg, 
where he has resided for thirty-four years. 
He was for several years a photographer. 
In 1870 he was appointed to the Harrisburg 
police force, and served two years as patrol- 
man, and two years as lieutenant. At this 
writing he is not in any active business. 
He was married in Muncy, Lycoming 
county, Pa., September 28, 1847, to Elizabeth, 
daughter of the Rev. James and Justina 
(Grove) Ewing. They had five children, 
three of whom died in infancy : a son George, 
born July, 1848, died in Boston, Mass., Sep- 
tember 30, 1889, at the age of forty-one, 
and their only living child is William 
H., a prominent dentist, a sketch of whom 
follows. 

Mr. Painter is a past noble grand of Har- 
risburg Lodge, No. 68, Harrisburg Encamp- 
ment, and of Daughters of Rebecca, I. O. O. 
F. ; P. C. of K. of P. ; Ex-C. of O. U. A. M. ; 
past officer of Good Templars, Sons of F. 
T. of II., and Druids. He has always shown 
the deepest interest in the welfare and ad- 
vancement of his adopted city. On the 
police force he was a model officer, and was 
popular, because he was faithful and impar- 



tial, performing his duties without fear or 
favor. 

Dr. William H. Painter, only surviving 
son of Ebenezer G. Painter, was born in 
Mauch Chunk, Pa., July 4, 1853. When 
seven years old, he came with his parents to 
Harrisburg, and received his primary educa- 
tion in the city schools. He took up the 
study of dentistry, and attended the Penn- 
sylvania Dental College in Philadelphia, re- 
ceiving his degree of D. D. S. in the class of 
1881. Including five years of practice pre- 
vious to his college course, he has success- 
fully practiced his profession for twenty-one 
years. He has practiced at Steelton and at 
New Cumberland, and since 1881 continu- 
ously at Harrisburg. He was married in 
Reading, December 23, 1882, to Miss Hattie 
B., daughter of Conrad and Sarah (Copp) 
Anthony, of Easton Pa. They have three 
children : Marion E., Sarah Anthony, and 
Eben G, who died December 22, 1894. 

Dr. Painter is past noble grand of Peace 
and Plenty Lodge, No. 69, I. O. O. F. ; past 
commander of CincinnatusCommandery, No. 
96, K. of M. ; past national representative 
and past national conductor of Junior O. U. 
A. M. He is an active member and a trustee 
of Lady Alpha Lodge, No. 15, Daughters of 
America ; and State representative of Junior 
0. U. A. M., Capital City Council, No. 327, 
since the council was organized, with the 
exception of two years, when he was not a 
candidate. He was elected State inside sen- 
tinel at the Wilkes-Barre session, nineteen 
candidates being in the field. He made the 
final argument in behalf of the Garb Bill be- 
fore the governor and his cabinet. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican. The family attend 
the Lutheran church. 

Mrs. E. G. Painter's father, Rev. James 
Ewing, was born in York county, Pa., De- 
cember 15, 1786. He was married three 
times and was the father of fifteen children. 
For fifty years he was in the ministry in the 
Methodist Church, and died in Juniata 
county, September 22, 1861. His father, 
Alexander Ewing, was also a Methodist min, 
ister and died in York county, December 21- 
1831. James married, first, Miss Prudence 
Manifold, March 9, 1812, and they had these 
children : Lydia, born December 11, and 
died in January, 1813 ; Jane Willson, born 
December 11, 1814, and died January, 1888, 
was married to Anthony Witman ; Alice, 
born November 26, 1816, and died January, 
1817; Esther, born January 6, 1818, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



333 



married in 1848. He married, secondly, 
Miss Jnstina Grove, daughter of Jacob Grove, 
of York county, Pa., in April, 1819, who died 
October'12, 1850. Their children were: John 
Wesley, a Methodist minister, born March 
25, 1820, and died August 26, 1886, leaving 
two children : F. Byron and Elizabeth ; 
Prudence, wife of A. C. Smith, born August 
16, 1821, and died August 26, 1886, leaving 
two children: Nerrey and Alice, both mar- 
ried; Elizabeth Redman, born November 5, 
1822, and died November 2, 1877, wife of E. 
G. Painter, whose children were : George Wil- 
ber, born in July, 1848, and died September 
30, 1889 ; Mary A., born in September, 1849, 
and died in July, 1850 ; W. N, born in July, 
1853; John B., born in September, 1854, and 
died in September, 1858 ; James Ewing, born 
in June, 1856, and died in August, 1857 ; 
Agnes A., born August 22, 1824, and died 
September 14, 1851; Alexander Tidings, 
minister in Methodist church, born April 25, 
1826, and died October 8, 1850 ; James N., 
Methodist minister, born August 19, 1828, 
and died in 1895, leaving three children : 
Charles, Edward and Emity, all married; 
Henr}' Whitfield, a Methodist minister, born 
October 26, 1831, and died June 24, 1854; 
Joseph Benson, lawyer, born August, 1834, 
and died in February, 1891, married Mary 
J. K. Speese and had three children: Helen 
M., Joseph G., and one who died in infancy ; 
Mary A. Holmes, Port Royal, Juniata county, 
Pa., born April 3, 1836, wife of George E. 
Hench, deceased ; William McKindra, born 
March 14, 1838, and died December 14, 1838 ; 
and Wilber Fisk, born October 22, 1840, and 
served in the Rebellion. Rev. Ewing mar- 
ried, thirdly, in 1851, Miss Elizabeth Jen- 
nings, who died May 20, 1873. 



Wilson, Thomas, of Scotch-Irish parent- 
age, was born in Philadelphia about 1768. 
He learned the trade of a printer, was a 
gentleman of considerable literary attain- 
ments, and wrote freel} 7 on the subjects of 
his time for the leading newspapers of his 
native city. In 1811 he removed to Balti- 
more, where he conducted a newspaper. In 
defense of that city, when attacked by the 
British in 1814, he enlisted as a private in 
Capt. James McConkey's company of the 
Twenty-seventh regiment of Maryland vol- 
unteers, commanded by Lieut. Col. Ken- 
nedy Long. In 1816 Mr. Wilson returned 
to Philadelphia, where he became foreman 
on Mr. Duane's newspaper, The Aurora, con- 



tributing also to its columns. He died at 
Philadelphia about 1828. He married 
Lydia Oakford, of English parentage, who 
survived her husband several years. Mr. 
Wilson was the author of a number of 
works, the names of only two, however, 
coming to our knowledge, " The Biography 
of the Principal Military and Naval Heroes, 
comprehending details of their achieve- 
ments during the Revolutionary and late 
wars," two volumes, published by John 
Low, 130 Cherry street, New York, 1821, 
and "The Picture of Philadelphia for 1824," 
published by Thomas Town, 38 Chestnut 
street, Philadelphia. 



Wyeth, John, son of Ebenezer Wyeth, 
was born March 31, 1770, at Cambridge, 
Mass., and died January 23, 1858, at Phila- 
delphia, Pa. He was, at an early age, ap- 
prenticed to the printing business, and, on 
reaching his majority, was induced to go to 
San Domingo, to superintend a large print- 
ing establishment. While there the insur- 
rection of the blacks occurred, and all that 
he had acquired was lost. It was with great 
difficulty that he even succeeded in escaping 
from the island, and then only by the con- 
nivance of a friend, one of the officers who 
assisted in searching the vessels about leav- 
ing the port. Dressed as a common sailor 
and working among them, he eluded their 
vigilance, and subsequently reached Phila- 
delphia. Arriving at Philadelphia, he 
worked some time in the different printing 
establishments there, and, in 1792, went to 
Harrisburg, Pa., where, in connection with 
John Allen, he purchased the paper started 
the previous year by Maj. Eli Lewis, and 
commenced the publication of the Oracle of 
Dauphin, a newspaper he successfully car- 
ried on until November, 1827. Mr. Wyeth's 
paper supported the Federal views of that 
great party during the whole course of its 
existence. Its columns were open, never- 
theless, to the communications of all. In 
those days, before the principles of Republi- 
can rule were fully digested, man} 7 a ner- 
vous essay was put forth on either side of 
the question by able men of both parties. 
He was appointed postmaster of Harrisburg 
in October, 1793, under the administration 
of President Washington, of which he was a 
strenuous advocate and admirer. He was 
removed in July, 1798, by Mr. Adams' Post- 
master General, on account of "the incom- 
patability of the office of postmaster and the 



334 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



editor of a newspaper." In connection with 
his newspaper, Mr. Wyeth established a 
bookstore and a publishing house, from 
which he issued a large number of books, 
the most notable of which were: Judge 
Henry's " Narrative of the Quebec Expedi- 
tion," Graydon's "Memoirs," and a music 
book compiled by himself. The circulation 
of the latter, for that early day, was wonder- 
ful, its several editions aggregating one hun- 
dred and twenty thousand copies. To this 
he supplemented a second part, intended 
especially for the Methodist Church, of 
which there were published about twenty- 
five thousand. He was one of H arrisburg's 
most energetic citizens, and was deeply in- 
terested in its prosperity and welfare. He 
caused the construction of several valuable 
improvements, which remain as evidence of 
his enterprising spirit and good judgment. 
He was one of the earliest friends of the 
Harrisburg Academj^, and served as a 
trustee, of which body he was also president. 
Upon his retirement from publisher, he re- 
moved to Philadelphia, where he died at the 
advanced age of eighty-eight years. His 
life, thus prolonged, was marked by affa-. 
bility and cheerfulness, and his philosophy 
was of practical character. He was exceed- 
ingly industrious, and, whilst in business, 
could always find something for his hands 
to do, and in later life, when the concerns 
of his printing office were transferred to 
younger hands, he knew how to divide his 
time between his reading and his social 
pleasures. Mr. Wyeth was twice married; 
married, first, June 6, 1793, Louisa Weiss, 
born April 29, 1775 ; died June 1, 1822, at 
Harrisburg, Pa.; daughter of Lewis and 
Mary Weiss, of Philadelphia. 

Mowry, Charles, was born in Litchfield, 
Providence county, P. I., in 1777. He re- 
ceived a classical education, and came to 
Pennsylvania about 1800, and engaged in 
teaching. In 1808 he began the publication 
of the Temperate Zone, at Downingtown, 
Chester county. This was subsequently 
changed to the American Republican, and 
Mr. Mowry continued its publication until 
1821, when he came to Harrisburg in the in- 
terest of William Findlay, who was a candi- 
date for governor of Pennsylvania for a 
second term, and became editor of the Penn- 
sylvania Intelligencer, previously the Harris- 
burg Republican. This paper he eventually 
disposed of to Gen. Simon Cameron, who 



had been associated with him as co-partner 
in its management, in order that he might 
assume the duties of canal commissioner, to 
which he had been appointed by Governor 
Shulze. During his career as editor he ac- 
quired considerable celebrity as a political 
writer, and exercised a marked influence 
upon the policy of his party. He died at 
Harrisburg, July 29, 1838. He married, 
March 31, 1812," Mary Richmond, daughter 
of George Richmond, of Sadsbury township, 
Chester county. She died March 28, 1862, 
aged seventy -six years. 



Peacock, James, the eldest son of Will- 
iam Peacock and Mary McArthur, of Scotch- 
Irish ancestry, was born in Paxtang town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., April 8, 1788. 
His education was in a great measure due to 
his mother's care and tuition, with self-ap- 
plication in after years. At the age of 
fifteen he began to learn the printing busi- 
ness with Mr. Edward Cole, of Lewistown, 
where he remained until 1807, when he 
went to Lancaster to work on the Intelli- 
gencer. In 1809 he was employed by the 
celebrated John Binns, of Philadelphia, on 
book work, and subsequently by Mr. Dinnie 
on the Port Folio. While in the latter es- 
tablishment he became intimate with quite 
a number of the literati of that period, and 
concerning whom he has left some interest- 
ing "Reminiscences." In 1811 Mr. Peacock 
returned to Lancaster, and from thence 
came to Harrisburg, where, in December of 
that year, he started the Pennsylvania Repub- 
lican, which he continued to publish for 
about eight or nine years, in the meantime 
being one of the printers to the Senate and 
House. In December, 1821, he was em- 
ployed as an assistant clerk of the Senate, 
and in March, 1822, received the appoint- 
ment of postmaster at Harrisburg in place 
of Mrs. Wright, who had recently deceased, 
an office he held under different national 
administrations until the 15th of Novem- 
ber, 1846. In December, 1847, he removed 
to Philadelphia, where he became identified 
with the publication of the Evening Bulle- 
tin, The Sun and Neat's Saturday Gazette, 
which he managed with all the tact and 
skill of his early years, relinquishing his 
labors only a brief time prior to his death. 
He died in the city of Philadelphia on the 
23d of August, 1863, and is interred in the 
Harrisburg cemetery. Mr. Peacock was 
, twice married — first to Frances C, daughter 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



335 



of Matthias Slough and Mary Gibson, of 
Lancaster, who died October 27, 1S37; and, 
secondly, to Mrs. Louisa V. Sims, of Mount 
Holly, N. J., who died in 1869. Mr. Pea- 
cock was ever held in high esteem by the 
citizens of Harrisburg, whether as journalist, 
or his occupancy of the postofnce for a 
quarter of a century. He always took an 
active part in public affairs, and was largely 
instrumental in organizing St. Stephen's 
Episcopal church, in which there has been 
erected a tablet to his memory. He was a 
gentleman of dignified manners, of refined 
culture, and a sincere Christian. 



Wilson, Thomas Low, the son of Thomas 
Wilson and Lydia Oakford, was born in 
Philadelphia, Pa., March 26, 1800. He 
learned the art of printing with his father, 
who Was a prominent craftsman in his day. 
In 1811 his parents removed to Baltimore, 
where in the defense of that city both father 
and son enlisted as privates in Capt. James 
McCbnkey's company, Twenty -seventh Mary- 
land regiment. In IS16 the family returned 
to Philadelphia, where both Wilsons worked 
on Mr. Duane's Aurora. Subsequently the 
son went to Washington City to work on the 
National Intelligencer. In 1828 he published 
the Intelligencer, Petersburg, Va., where in 
connection he printed the Lynchburg Demo- 
crat in 1837. In 1838, on the recommenda- 
tion of the veteran editor, Ritchie, he came 
to Harrisburg as editor of the Reporter, to 
combat the errors of the Anti-Masonic party. 
Upon the return of the Democracy to power 
Mr. Wilson was chosen secretary to the 
board of canal commissioners, a position he 
occupied almost uninterruptedly until the 
abolishment of the canal department in 
1859. He served during this period one year 
as collector of tolls at Middletown and one 
year as deputy secretary of the Common- 
wealth at the close of Governor Porter's ad- 
ministration. He died at Harrisburg, Feb- 
ruary 28, 1861. Mr. Wilson married, May 
6, 1824, Juliana Margaretta Bender, of 
Washington City. A gentleman prominent 
in public affairs thus summarizes the char- 
acter of Mr. Wilson : " He was an honest 
man, one of that stern, inflexible, and un- 
bending old school integrity, which made 
him die a poor man rather than become a 
party to unholy plunder from the coffers of 
the Commonwealth." 



Krause, David, son of David Ki*ause and 
Regina Orth, was born November 2, 1800, in 
Lebanon, Pa.; died June 13, 1871, in Norris- 
town, Pa. He was educated under Rev. Mr. 
Ernst, of the Lutheran church of Lebanon, 
and subsequently studied law with Hon. 
Jonathan AValker, of Pittsburgh, and there 
admitted to the bar. He returned to Leb- 
anon and began practice. He went to Har- 
risburg as the private secretary of Governor 
Shulze, and was admitted to the Dauphin 
courts, August 15, 1825. He was appointed 
deputy attorney general in August, 1826, 
and re appointed in 1829. From 1825 to 
1826, with Gen. Simon Cameron, he pub- 
lished and edited the Pennsylvania Intelli- . 
gencer. He was elected a member of the 
House of Representatives in 1835 and 1836. 
On the election of Governor Porter, in 1839, 
he took editorial charge of the State Journal, 
which he conducted with much ability. In 
January, 1845, a vacancy occurring in the 
Montgomery and Bucks county judicial dis- 
trict, Mr. Krause was appointed to the bench. 
He filled the position acceptably and honor- 
ably, but in 1851, when the judiciary became 
elective, he positively declined the office. 
He then retired to private life. In 1862, and 
again in 1863, upon the invasion of Pennsyl- 
vania by the Confederates, he volunteered as 
a private soldier in the Pennsylvania militia, 
although then in the sixty-third year of his 
age. Judge Krause married, in September, 
1826, Catharine Orr, of Philadelphia, born 
September, 1800 ; died December, 1875, at 
Norristown, Pa. 



Hamilton, Adam Boyd, was born in Har- 
risburg, September IS, 1808, son of Hugh 
Hamilton, who was a son of Capt. John 
Hamilton and of Rosanna Boyd, only child 
of Adam Boyd. Both these ancestors were 
purchasers of property in 1785. both erected 
substantial brick mansions, and both died 
and are buried at Harrisburg. The subject 
of this notice received his first school train- 
ing under Misses Graham and Smith, at 
Second and Mulberry streets, Charles Still, 
Maginnes, Birkman, Hamilton, Tod, Davies. 
Most of his time was devoted to picking up 
the trade of printer in his father's establish- 
ment, the Harrisburg Chronicle. At this 
early period two late chief justices of the 
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Messrs. 
Lewis and Thompson, were employed there, 
as well as many other gentlemen who rose 



336 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



to social and political positions. Having 
been carefully trained as a printer, after 
leaving the Harrisburg Academy he was ap- 
pointed to a position in the engineer corps 
of the Juniata division of the State works, 
under DeWitt Clinton, Jr., as chief. The 
partner of his father having died, he re- 
turned to Harrisburg and became partner in 
the Chronicle, where he continued until that 
paper was disposed of to other parties. He 
was chosen, when scarcely of voting age, 
one of the printers to the Legislature. After 
spending a couple of years in an unsuccess- 
ful business venture in the South, he re- 
turned to Harrisburg, and shortly after ap- 
pointed to a position at Washington City ; 
resigned, taking control of the Pennsylvania 
Reporter, at Harrisburg ; after a year or two 
was unanimously chosen assistant clerk of 
the Senate, resigning that, and becoming 
joint partner in the Pennsylvanian at Phila- 
delphia with Mifflin, Parry, Joseph Neal, J. 
W. Forney and S. D. Patterson. When that 
venture closed, became, under the contract 
law, printer to both houses of Congress, and 
at the repeal of that law, which carried his 
contract with it, came to Pennsylvania. 
Again became printer to the State until 
1861, when he retired from that business and 
became an agriculturist. He has held many 
municipal offices — a school director for 
twelve years ; president of the select council, 
and one of the commissioners of 1860, and 
of a subsequent one in 1870, to make a plot 
of the city of Harrisburg ; president of the 
Pennsylvania State Agricultural Society, the 
Dauphin County Society ; at present a trustee 
of the Harrisburg Academy, secretary of 
the board of managers of the Harrisburg 
Hospital from the first meeting on the sub- 
ject in 1872, president of the board of trustees 
of Derry Presbyterian church, and the only 
president the Dauphin County Historical 
Society has had since its formation. 

Weir, James Wallace, son of Samuel 
Weir, who served as an officer in the war of 
the Revolution, was born August 9, 1805, at 
Harrisburg, Pa.; died March 14, 1878. He 
received a good education, excelled as a 
scholar, and his taste for study and reading 
drew him toward the printing office. He 
learned the art with John S. Wiestling, and, 
after his apprenticeship, spent some time in 
the printing house of the Messrs. Johnson, 
of Philadelphia. On November 26, 1833, 
having been chosen teller of the Harrisburg 



Bank, he accepted the position, holding it 
until October 30, 1844, when he was chosen 
cashier of the bank. When the institution 
became a national bank in 1874, he was 
unanimously elected its cashier, which office 
he held until his death, a period of over forty- 
four years. As a bank officer and a financier 
he gained an enviable distinction for his 
uniform courtesy, for unimpeachable integ- 
rity, and for ability of the highest order. 
Few bankers in the Commonwealth can pre- 
sent a record equal to his in years of service, 
in successful administration of affairs through 
financial trouble, and for such rigid honesty. 
But not alone as a banker was he distin- 
guished. He was gifted with rare social 
qualities and a graceful wit, which made him 
one of the most companionable of men. In 
movements for the reformation of society he 
was always foremost, not only giving his 
time and labor, but contributing freely of his 
means to the accomplishment of what he 
thought a philanthropic purpose. To the 
poor and lowly he was always a kind and 
true friend, and his charities, though not os- 
tentatious, were made with a free and open 
hand. His literary taste and ability were of 
high order, and he frequently wrote for the 
press; was the author of several religious 
tracts published by the American Sunday- 
school Union. In 1838 appeared a small 
volume, " Manual of Prayer," which was pub- 
lished with an introduction by Rev. Albert 
Barnes, of Philadelphia. In 1854 "The 
Closet Companion " appeared and passed 
through several editions. After his death 
" Home Worship," a book of prayer for the 
family circle, was published. In the Presby- 
terian church, of which he was nearly forty- 
four years an elder, as superintendent of the 
Sabbath-school for a similar period, and in 
every walk and pursuit in life he was active, 
energetic, consistent, pure in character and 
lofty in purpose. Mr. Weir married Mrs. 
Hanna A. (Fahnestock) Mahany, who died 
February, 1872. 



Wyeth, Francis, was born April 5, 1806, 
at Harrisburg, Pa., and died there July 2, 
1893. He was educated at the Harrisburg 
Academy, and learned the art of printing in 
his father's office, subsequently entering 
Jefferson College, Canonsburg, from which 
institution he graduated in November, 1827. 
On his return home his father, who had con- 
ducted the Oracle of Dauphin thirty-five 
years, transferred that paper to his son, which 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



337 



he edited and published several years. He 
also entered into the business of bookseller 
and publisher. At the time Mr. Wyeth took 
charge of the Oracle the Whig party had just 
come into existence, of whose principles and 
policy he was an enthusiastic supporter. 
Becoming, however, tired of an editor's life, 
he sold out the newspaper establishment 
about 1831, continuing his other business 
until 1859, when he disposed of that. In 
April, 1861, at the outbreak of the Rebellion, 
he was placed in charge of the quarter- 
master's department at Camp Curtin, where 
he continued until the General Government 
assumed control over all the military organ- 
izations of the State. On the 20th of July, 
1862, Governor Curtin appointed him one of 
the commissioners from Pennsylvania to 
visit all the hospitals in the Army of the 
Potomac, in the interest of the volunteer 
soldiers of the State, who were sick or 
wounded, and, as the commission reads, " to 
supply the wants of the suffering and needy 
as far as lies in your power, without infring- 
ing, on any of the regulations or rights 
of the army, and assure each and all that 
their condition awakens the liveliest interest 
and sympathy of the people and Governor 
of Pennsylvania." Returning home, he re- 
ported the condition of the wounded soldiers 
with this recommendation, that where it is 
possible " those from Pennsylvania be trans- 
ferred to hospitals in their own State, that 
they might be near to their friends and ac- 
quaintances." This was, subsequently, car- 
ried out during the continuance of the war. 
On November 28, 1863, he was again directed 
to visit the various hospitals. For a long 
term of years he was one of the trustees of 
the Harrisburg Academy, and president of 
the same. Mr. Wyeth was twice married ; 
married, first, May 29, 1829, Susan Huston 
Maxwell, died December 24, 1841, daughter 
of William and Ann Maxwell, of Franklin 
county, Pa., and left three sons. Mr. Wyeth 
married, secondly, Sarah C. Carson, who sur- 
vives, daughter of Charles Carson, of Harris- 
burg, Pa.; and left one son. 

Wiestling, George P., son of Dr. Samuel 
Christopher, was born May 4, 1808, in Pax- 
tang, now Susquehanna township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., and died May 31, 18S3, at Har- 
risburg, Pa. He was educated in the schools 
of the borough and the Harrisburg Academy. 
He learned the art of printing with his 
brother, John S. Wiestling, who edited and 



published the Pennsylvania Intelligencer. He 
afterwards worked as a compositor in the 
different newspaper offices at the State capi- 
tal. About the year 1842 he established 
himself in the wood and coal trade, in which 
he continued down through life, being one 
of the first to engage in it. For a period of 
fifty years he was leader of the Reformed 
church choir. Having a love for music, 
and being endowed with fine talents in that 
direction, he took special delight in their 
cultivation. He was an active member of 
the church with which he so long identified 
himself as its musical leader, and for forty- 
four years an elder. He was faithful to 
every trust, honest and upright in all his 
dealings with the world, earnest and sincere 
in every good work, and his memory will 
remain green in the hearts of those who 
honor him. Mr. Wiestling married Mar- 
garet Berry hill, daughter of Samuel Berry- 
hill. 



Clyde, John Joseph, son of Thomas 
Clyde (1788-1821) and Mary Dentzel (1789- 
1845), was born December 14, 1813, in Me- 
chanicsburg, Cumberland county, Pa. He 
was educated in the schools of Harrisburg, 
and learned the trade of bookbinder. In 
1834 he established himself in business in 
Brownsville, Fayette county, Pa., and two 
years after started the Fayette Journal, which 
he continued for three j'ears. In 1840 re- 
turned to Harrisburg and purchased the 
bindery of Samuel H. Clark, connecting a 
bookstore therewith. In 1849 he was elected 
treasurer of the county of Dauphin, and in 
1851 started the Whig State Journal. The 
year following purchased the Pennsylvania 
Intelligencer, uniting it with the Journal. In 
1853 sold the establishment to John J. Pat- 
terson, and commenced the publication of 
the Ohrystal Fountain. The same year 
bought one-third interest in the Pennsyl- 
vania Telegraph, which in 1855 he sold to 
Mr. Bergner. During the Presidential cam- 
paign of 1856 he published the American. 
The same year started the Daily Herald, 
which was continued until 1858, when he 
sold to 0. Barrett and entered the service of 
the Lebanon Valley railroad as its agent, 
Mr. Clyde married first, in 1S34, Emeline 
Harvey, born 1811, in Perry county, Pa., 
died April, 1870, at Harrisburg, daughter of 
John and Mary Harvey, and their children 
were: Virginia D., Joanna II., Mary A., 
Thomas H., Olive L., John Joseph, Edward 



338 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



W., Harvey E., and Annie C. He married, 
secondly, Mrs. Eliza (Jacobs) Cornyn, of 
Harrisburg, now deceased. 

Bergner, George, was a native of the vil- 
lage of Neunkirchen, a few miles distant 
from the free city of Bremen, in the kingdom 
of Hanover, where he was born on June 6, 
1818. He came to America at the age of 
twelve years, and reaching Reading, Pa., he 
apprenticed himself to Engelman, a printer 
and a well-known almanac-maker, with 
whom he served his time. In 1834 he came 
to Harrisburg and worked as a compositor 
on the different German newspapers and 
journals. In 1838 he was sent by the execu- 
tive committee of the Anti-Masonic party to 
Somerset, Pa., to publish a German campaign 
paper, and during the Harrison campaign 
was sent on a similar service to New Bloom- 
field, Perry county. In 1841 he purchased 
the Vaterland Waechter of his former em- 
ployer, Mr. Ehrenfried. During the Know- 
Nothing campaign of 1854 he published the 
American, in opposition to the tenets of that 
then dominant party. The following year 
he purchased the Telegraph, which he soon' 
established on a successful and permanent 
basis. From 1857 to his death he was the 
publisher of the Legislative Record. In 1861 
Mr. Bergner was appointed by President 
Lincoln postmaster at Harrisburg. He was 
removed by President Johnson in 1866, but 
upon the election of President Grant he was 
reappointed to the position, an office he held 
at the time of his death. During the Re- 
bellion his pen and his purse were at the 
service of the Union, while he himself went 
out as a private soldier in the First regiment, 
Pennsylvania militia, during the invasion of 
the State in 1862. Mr. Bergner's life was an 
active one, and yet apart from his own busi- 
ness affairs and official position, much of his 
time was given to the public. For many 
years he was one of the inspectors of the 
Dauphin county prison, was a trustee of the 
State Lunatic Asylum, vice-president of the 
Pennsylvania Agricultural Society, bank di- 
rector, etc. His business career was a very 
successful one. He died at Harrisburg, after 
a very brief illness, August 5, 1874, aged fifty- 
six years. 

Ringland, John, was born January 9, 
1825, in Middletown, Pa., where he now re- 
sides. He was educated in the common 
schools of Middletown. At the age of fifteen 



he entered the Examiner and Herald office at 
Lancaster to learn the art of printing, with 
R. White Middleton, who afterwards sold 
the office and removed to Carlisle, where he 
purchased the Carlisle Herald, John accom- 
panying him, as also back again to Lan- 
caster, when he sold out the Herald, and 
purchased the Lancaster Union. Here he 
remained until 1845. In 1846 Mr. Ring- 
land commenced the study of medicine with 
Dr. Benjamin J. Wiestling, of Middletown, 
and graduated from the medical department 
of the University of Pennsylvania in 1850. 
He located at Portsmouth, now Middletown, 
where he entered upon the practice of medi- 
cine; but was subsequently compelled to re- 
linquish it, owing to impaired hearing. In 
the fall of 1852 he engaged in the lumber 
business at New Cumberland, in which he 
continued until the spring of 1855, when he 
returned to Middletown, and established 
himself in the drug business. In 1860 he 
was elected recorder of deeds and clerk of 
the orphans' court of Dauphin county, and 
re-elected in 1863. While in Portsmouth, 
in 1850, a postoffice was established there, 
and Dr. Ringland appointed postmaster. 
He has served as justice of the peace, was 
census enumerator in 1870, and filled vari- 
ous borough offices. Dr. Ringland married, 
in 1850, Margaret E. Smith, daughter of 
Henry Smith, of Middletown. 

Egle, William Henry, was born Sep- 
tember 17, 1830, in Harrisburg, Pa., and the 
fifth in the line of descent from the original 
emigrant, Marcus Egle. His ancestors set- 
tled in Pennsylvania prior to 1740, coining 
on the one side from the Canton of Zurich, 
Switzerland, and on the other from Palati- 
nate, Germany. A great-great-grandfather 
served as an officer in the French and Indian 
wars; his paternal grand and great-grand- 
fathers served in the war of the Revolution, 
while his materal grandfather served in the 
war of 1812-14. His parents were John 
Egle and Elizabeth von Treupel,both natives 
of Pennsylvania. The father dying when 
the sou was four years of age, the latter made 
his home with his paternal grandmother. 
He was educated in the public and private 
schools-of Harrisburg, and at the Harrisburg 
Military Institute, under the famed Capt. 
Alden Partridge. In 1848 he was tendered 
the appointment of midshipman in the 
United States navy, but declined the honor. 
At the close of his school life he spent three 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



339 



years in the office of the Pennsylvania Tele- 
graph, during most of which time he was 
foreman of the establishment, subsequently 
having charge of the State printing, which 
was done in the office. In 1853 he under- 
took the editorship of the Literary Companion 
as well as the Daily Times ; the latter after- 
wards merged into one of the newspaper 
ventures of Harrisburg. In 1854 and the 
following year he was an assistant teacher 
in the boys' school, and part of the time 
mailing clerk in the postoffice, which latter 
position he held until the fall of 1857, when 
he resigned to enter the medical department 
of the University of Pennsylvania, from 
which institution he was graduated in 
March, 1859. The same year he established 
himself at Harrisburg, and was in the prac- 
tice of his profession there, when, in 1862, 
after the battles of Chantilly and the second 
Bull Run, he went to Washington in response 
to a telegram from Adjutant General Russell, 
of Pennsylvania, to assist in the care of the 
wounded. In September of that year he 
was commissioned assistant surgeon of the 
Ninety-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, and arrived at his post on the eve of the 
battle of Antietam. During the progress of 
that battle he was ordered to the field hos- 
pital for duty, where he remained several 
days. In the summer of 1863. during the 
Gettysburg campaign, he was appointed 
surgeon of the Forty-seventh regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteer militia. At the 
close of service with the latter command, he 
resumed his profession, but, in August, 1864, 
accepted the appointment by President Lin- 
coln of surgeon of volunteers, and was 
ordered to Camp Nelson, Ky., to examine 
the colored regiments then being raised in 
that State. He was subsequently detailed 
with the battalion under Col. James S. 
Brisbin and Col. James F. 'Wade in the 
famous attempt by Gen. Burbridge to destroy 
the salt works in Southwestern Virginia. 
Upon his return from that ill-fated expedi- 
tion, he was ordered to the department of 
the James, under General Butler, as surgeon 
of the One Hundred and Sixteenth United 
States colored infantry. Subsequently as- 
signed to the Twenty-fourth army corps as 
executive medical officer, Gen. Wm. Birney's 
division ; he accompanied that division during 
the Petersburg and Appomattox campaigns. 
Upon the return from that duty he was or- 
dered to Texas, with General Jackson's divis- 
ion, as chief medical officer and stationed at 



Roma, on the Rio Grande, until December, 
1S65, when he resigned the service and re- 
turned home, partly resuming the practice 
of his profession. In 1867 Dr. Egle was 
appointed an examiner for pensions, a posi- 
tion he retained four years. For twenty 
years he was annually elected physician to 
the Dauphin county prison, which he re- 
signed in March, 1887, when Governor 
Beaver appointed him State librarian, the 
Senate promptly confirming the nomination. 
Governor Pattison re-appointed him in 1891 
and again in March, 1894, and he was con- 
firmed by the Senate and commissioned by 
Governor Hastings. The present effective- 
ness of the Pennsylvania State Library, in 
the front rank of the best libraries in Amer- 
ica, is largely due to Dr. Egle's management 
and has been greatly appreciated by students 
at large. 

Upon the organization of the National 
Guard in 1870 Dr. Egle was appointed sur- 
geon-in-chief of the Fifth division, with rank 
of lieutenant colonel, and subsequently, in 
the consolidation of the commands, was 
transferred to the Eighth regiment. As a 
medical officer he was on duty during the 
so-called " Sawdust War " of 1871 and the 
railroad riots of 1877, as well as the Home- 
stead fiasco of 1892. In 1885 Dr. Egle was 
commissioned surgeon-in-chief of the Third 
brigade, which military position he now 
holds. He is the senior medical officer of 
the National Guard of Pennsylvania, hav- 
ing passed his twenty-sixth year of service 
with the Guard. 

Acquiring an early taste for historical re- 
search, during the relaxation from profes- 
sional duties, when he retured from the army 
in December, 1865, he commenced the prep- 
aration of his History of Penns}dvania, pub- 
lished in 1876, a bi-centennial edition in 
1883, and of which fifteen thousand copies 
were sold. Principally amoug his historical 
publications are the Historical Register, two 
volumes (1883-1884); History of the County 
of Dauphin (1883); History of the County 
of Lebanon (1883); Centennial County of 
Dauphin and City of Harrisburg (1886); 
Pennsylvania Genealogies, chiefly Scotch- 
Irish and German (1886, reprint 1896); Har- 
risburg-on-the-Susquehanna (1892); Notes 
and Queries, historical, biographical and 
genealogical ; relating to the interior of Penn- 
sylvania; first and second series, two vol- 
umes (1878-1882, reprint two volumes 
1894-1895); third series, two volumes (1887- 






340 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



1891, reprint 1895-1896, three volumes); 
fourth series, two volumes (1891-1895). He 
has also written a large number of biographi- 
cal sketches of prominent Pennsylvanians, 
at least two hundred of which were furnished 
Appleton's Encyclopedia of Biography, and 
also biographical sketches of the members 
of the Constitutional Convention of 1776, 
and of the delegates to the Pennsylvania 
convention to ratify the Constitution of the 
United States, published in the Pennsyl- 
vania Magazine of History. Dr. Egle was 
co-editor of the Pennsylvania Archives, 
second series, volumes I. to XII.; editor of 
the same series, volumes XIII. to XIX., and 
also of the third series, now passing through 
the press. The most valuable of these are 
those relating to the services of the Pennsyl- 
vania Line of the Revolution. 

Lafayette College in 1878 conferred upon 
Dr. Egle the honorary degree of A. M., ap- 
preciative of his services in American his- 
tory. He has also been honored by election 
a corresponding member of a number of his- 
torical societies of the United States as well 
as of several learned societies in France and 
England. He was one of the founders and 
the first presiding officer of the Pennsyl- 
vania-German Society, and by virtue of his 
services in the Rebellion is a member of the 
military order of the Loyal Legion, the So- 
ciety of the Army of the Potomac, and of 
the Grand Army of the Republic. Through 
his eligibility from an original member of 
the Cincinnati, he is a member of the State 
Society of Pennsylvania, is a member of the 
Society of Colonial Wars, a member of the 
Pennsylvania Society Sons of the Revolu- 
tion, Society of the War of 1812-14, and of 
the Society of Foreign Wars. In addition 
Dr. Egle preserves his membership with the 
Dauphin County Medical Society, State 
Medical Society, is a member of the Academy 
of Medicine at Harrisburg, and an active 
member of the Association of Military Sur- 
geons of the United States. 



Smull, John Augustus, the second son of 
John Smull and Harriet Pauli, was born at 
Harrisburg, Pa., September 1, 1832. Mr. 
Smull's parents came to Harrisburg shortly 
after their marriage, and there all their chil- 
dren were born. The death of John's father, 
in 1841, left his widowed mother dependent 
upon her own exertions and those of the 
eldest son, Le Van, who was then in his 
fourteenth year. An acquaintance with a 



number of members of the Legislature em- 
boldened her to secure a position for him 
which would, in some measure, aid in her 
maintenance. Le Van was appointed page 
to the speaker, the first one known to the 
legislative body. In the spring of 1848 John 
was tendered the appointment of a midship- 
man in the United States navy, and would 
have accepted the position but for the op- 
position of his mother. Shortly after he 
concluded to learn the art of printing, and 
apprenticed himself at the Telegraph, then 
under the editorial supervision of Theo. 
Fenn, Esq., a noted journalist at that daj*. 
On the 14th of April, 1849, Le Van Smull 
died, and the vacant position of page was 
secured for his brother John, then in his 
seventeenth year. In 1861 the office of res- 
ident clerk was created. The duties of this 
position were multiform, not only during the 
session of the Legislature, but in the recess. 
With an energy and industry most remark- 
able, affairs in this department were so 
systematically arranged that everything went 
as clock work. He could tell everything 
relating to legislation, the progress of each 
bill, and to all inquiries would give the most 
satisfactory replies, his memory being un- 
usually retentive. During the closing days 
of the session he was ready for all queries as 
to the status of every species of legislation 
before the House, so familiar did he make 
himself with whatever appertained to the 
business of the Assembly. For a number of 
years Matthias' and Ziegler's Manuals were 
the guide books of legislative practice. In 
1867 Mr. Smull enlarged the ordinary Direc- 
tory and Rules of the General Assembly by 
the compilation of the "Legislative Hand- 
Book," which has been published annually 
since 1873 as a State document. A vade 
mecum of information relative to the official 
life of the Commonwealth, it is the book of 
reference for all knowledge thereof. The 
work has been imitated in other States, and 
even by the National Government, but none 
of them can be compared to "Smull's Hand- 
Book" in usefulness. The necessities of 
legislation required the compilation of the 
work, and it is this necessity which perpetu- 
ates the labors of the lamented editor. 

The duties of Mr. Smull's official position 
did by no means prevent him from taking 
an active interest in every public enterprise, 
and the citizens of his native town hold him 
in grateful remembrance for the energy he 
displaj'ed in contributing to the advancement 





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WIEN FORNEY. 



CLARENCE E. SPAYD 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



343 



of its industrial and business enterprises. 
He was largely instrumental in the erection 
of the city passenger railway, of which he 
was a director and secretary from the date of 
its organization. He was secretary of the 
Harrisburg Cemetery Association, and presi- 
dent of the Harrisburg Brick and Tile Com- 
pany. He was largely interested in several 
land and building associations, the Harris- 
burg car works, Farmers' Bank, and a mem- 
ber of the Fort Hunter road commission. 
He served many years as one of the inspec- 
tors of the Dauphin county prison and was 
the efficient secretary of the board ; was vice- 
president of the Pennsylvania Agricultural 
Society, in the management of which betook 
an active part, being a working member of 
committees at all annual exhibitions the past 
fifteen years. The foregoing are only a few 
of the enterprises and institutions in which 
Mr. Smull was prominent. Others equally 
as important found in him an able advocate 
and friend. 

On Wednesday, July 9, 1879, be left home 
for Asbury Park, in the hope of recuperating 
his lost energies, with the intention of stop- 
ping over at Philadelphia until Thursday 
noon. The day and night were exceedingly 
warm, and whatever may have been the 
cause, the next morning he was found dead 
in his bed. The announcement of the death 
of John A. Smull was received with sorrow 
at Harrisburg and elsewhere, for, as Colonel 
McClure fitly said in his editorial, "many a 
good and prominent citizen of Pennsylvania 
could have been better spared than John A. 
Smull, and his sudden death will carry grief 
to every part of the State." So widely known 
was he that not a newspaper in the Common- 
wealth but had some tender expression of re- 
gret over his death. At the following session 
of the Legislature memorial services were 
held, and several eulogistic addresses were 
delivered concerning the deceased parlia- 
mentarian, and the House of Representatives 
unanimously ordered a memorial volume to 
be published comprising a biography of Mr. 
Smull and the proceedings had in that body 
relating thereto. Mr. Smull never married, 
and at his death his estate went to a cousin, 
who died shortly after, and to his brother, 
William Pauli Smull. 



succeeding the late William B. Underwood 
in 1836, and continuing with it until 1845. 
In 1849 he removed to Lancaster, having 
purchased the Intelligencer, of whicb journal 
he was the owner and editor for fifteen years, 
and for over ten j'ears was mayor of Lan- 
caster. His son Alfred was educated in the 
public schools of Carlisle and Lancaster and 
then learned the trade of a printer in the 
office of his father. In the month of August, 
1864, he assisted in the establishment of the 
Daily Intelligencer, his associates being John 
M. Cooper, Henry G. Smith and William A. 
Morton. Subsequently he became associated 
with the late Hon. J. Lawrence Getz in the 
publication of the Reading Gazette and was 
for a time editor of the Pottsville Standard. 
In 1879 he assumed editorial control of the 
Shippensburg Chronicle, with which he re- 
mained for nearly three years. He was also 
connected with the Harrisburg Star and Star- 
Independent for over seven years. He has 
also written much for the Harrisburg Tele- 
graph and other papers, and his nom deplume 
of " The Old Fellow " is a familiar one to 
the people of the Capital city. For some 
time past he has been associated with the 
Rev. Dr. Swallow in the editorial conduct of 
the Pennsylvania Methodist, and his Rambler 
sketches are very popular with the readers of 
that paper. He is a strong, fluent and versa- 
tile writer, and there are few men better 
known in the editorial profession of Penn- 
sylvania than Alfred Sanderson. 



Sanderson, Alfred, is a native of the 
Cumberland Valley. His father, the late 
George Sanderson, was the second owner and 
editor of the Carlisle American Volunteer, 



Forney, Wien, was born in the city of 
Lancaster, June 30, 1826, and began to learn 
the trade of a printer in the office of the Lan- 
caster Intelligencer when his cousin, the late 
Col. John W. Forney, was its editor and pro- 
prietor, and finished his apprenticeship on 
the Lancaster Examiner, under the late Ed- 
ward C. Darlington, a noted editor of the 
past. Subsequently he worked at case in 
Philadelphia, New York and other large 
cUies. Among his fellow-comnositors were 
Bayard Taylor and the famous "Mike" 
"Walsh, who was a member of Congress from 
New York City more than forty years ago. 

In 1845 Mr. Forney was employed on the 
Washington Union, the organ of President 
Polk's administration, and of which the late 
Thomas Ritchie was the editor. "Father" 
Ritchie was the founder of the Richmond En- 
quirer and was the contemporary and per- 
sonal friend of man}' of the eminent states- 
men of a half and three-quarters of a century 



26 



344 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ago. Mr. Forney was the first to collate 
news of a local nature for the Washington 
papers. In those days the Union and the 
old National Intelligencer were filled with 
editorials frequently columns in length, and 
with congressional proceedings and foreign 
news. Mr. Forney subsequently went to 
Philadelphia and became connected with the 
PennsylvoMian when it was published by 
Forney & Hamilton. In 1850 he went to 
Towanda, Bradford county, where he estab- 
lished and edited the North Pennsylvania.n, 
which he started in opposition to the views 
of the late David Wilmot, who up to that 
time had been a pronounced and leading 
Democrat. This enterprise did not succeed 
and in about a year he returned to Phila- 
delphia. 

For a short time he was associated with 
William V. McKean in the editorship of the 
Pennsylvanian, Colonel Forney having retired 
when he was elected clerk of the House of 
Representatives at Washington. Then for 
two or three years he was a clerk in the Phil- 
adelphia postoffice under the late John Mil- 
ler, but still wrote for the press. In 1855, in 
connection with Henry Hayes, he established 
the Belief onte Democratic Watchman, of which 
P. Gray Meek, the surveyor of the port of 
Philadelphia, is the present editor and pro- 
prietor. With this paper he remained until 
1857, and the next year started the Central 
Press in the same town. In 1859 he went to 
Washington to accept a position in the 
House Library, and at the same time did 
considerable work for the New York Herald 
and other papers. In 1860 he went to Har- 
risburg at the earnest solicitation of General 
Cameron to take charge of the editorial 
columns of the Telegraph, and when Mr. 
Lincoln was elected President he went back 
to Washington and remained there during 
the exciting winter of 1860-61 as a corres- 
pondent for several papers, and was also 
connected with the House Library. He re- 
turned to Harrisburg after the inauguration 
of Mr. Lincoln, and resumed the editorship 
of the Telegraph, in which position he re- 
mained for six years. Then he became one 
of the editors and publishers of the State 
Guard, the firm being Levi Kauffman, Wien 
Forney and Isaac B. Gara, 

When this paper suspended he became 
editor of the State Guard, which was owned 
by the late Benjamin Singerly, who was the 
uncle of William M. Singerly, of the Record. 
Under both administrations of Governor 



Curtin he was State librarian, as well as dur- 
ing the first term of Governor Geary. When 
the Harrisburg Independent was founded by 
E. Z. Wallower in 1876 he was its first editor. 
On this paper he remained for a year or two 
and then again resumed the editorship of the 
Telegraph, with which he remained until it 
passed into the hands of Thomas F. Wilson. 
Then for a short time he edited a daily 
paper at Steelton, but since 1883 has been 
the editor of the Independent until its con- 
solidation in 1891 with the Star by the Hon. 
B. F. Meyers, and held the same position on 
the Star-Independent until the spring of 1896 
when he retired from newspaper work. 

Mr. Forney was an indefatigable worker 
and versatile writer. His style was bold and 
fearless, he was always abreast the times, and 
his editorials were read with avidity. Socially 
he is a most delightful conversationalist, and 
his reminiscences of the men and times of the 
past are interesting, instructive and valuable. 
At the age of three score and ten he retains 
much of the vivacity and sprightliness of 
youth, his eye is still bright, his step elastic 
and his general health continues good. 
Few of the Pennsylvania editors of the past 
or present generation have had so varied, in- 
teresting and eventful an experience as Wien 
Forney. 



Meyers, Hon. Benjamin F., lawyer and 
journalist, was born July 6, 1S33, in Somerset 
county, Pa. He was educated at the Somerset 
Academy and Jefferson College, Canonsburg, 
Pa. In 1853 he was made principal of a select 
school at Somerset. In 1854 he was married 
to MissSusanC. Koontz, of Somerset, and soon 
after removed to Bloomington, 111., where he 
engaged in journalism, one of his first ex- 
periences there being the reporting of a 
speech delivered at Bloomington by Stephen 
A. Douglas, on the Kansas-Nebraska bill. 
The climate did not agree with him, and in 
one year he returned to his native county, 
where he read law and was admitted to the 
bar. He at once began the practice of his 
profession, which he diligently pursued for a 
number of years. 

When the presidential canvass of 1856 
opened Mr. Meyers determined to oppose 
General Fremont and espoused the cause of 
James Buchanan, taking the stump for that 
candidate and casting his first vote for the 
Democratic electors. 

In 1857 he was unanimously elected chair 
man of the Anti-Know-Nothing committe- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



345 



of Somerset county and did effective work. 
In August of the same year Mr. Meyers be- 
came one of the proprietors of the Bedford, 
Ya.., Gazette and later removed with his family 
to the town of Bedford. Here he remained 
as editor of that journal for a number of 
years. In June, 1868, he purchased an in- 
terest in the Harrisburg Patriot and was 
made its editor-in-chief. 

In 1S63 Mr. Meyers was elected to the lower 
house of the Legislature as a representative 
of Bedford count}'. While a member of that 
body he made a reputation as a debater and 
speaker and his services were so satisfactory 
to his constituents that while absent from 
home he was unanimously renominated. 

In 1870 he was the Democratic candidate 
for Congress in the district composed of the 
counties of Adams, Bedford, Fulton, Frank- 
lin and Somerset, and was elected by a ma- 
jority of fifteen votes, overcoming a Republi- 
can majority of several hundred. 

Mr. Meyers has always been a consistent 
tariff reformer, and while in Congress voted 
for the repeal of duties on coal and salt. He 
was district delegate to the Democratic Na- 
tional conventions of 1864 and 1880, and 
was elected delegate-at-large to the conven- 
tion which nominated Grover Cleveland in 
1884. In 1875 he was elected president of 
the Pennsylvania Editorial Association and 
was re-elected in 1876. During the Cleve- 
land-Harrison campaign of 1888 he was 
designated by his party to represent it in 
several joint discussions, and always emerged 
from such contests with the respect of his 
adversaries and the plaudits of his auditors. 

Mr. Meyers was appointed postmaster at 
Harrisburg March 9, 1887, and served one 
term with much credit to himself and satis- 
faction to all concerned. 

In religion Mr. Meyers is an Episcopalian 
and has been for years a vestryman of St. 
Stephen's church, Harrisburg. He has five 
children living : Mrs. Ellis L. Mumma, Ed- 
win K., Harry S., Mrs. B. F. Africa, and W. 
K. Mr. Meyers is now the editor and pro- 
prietor of the Harrisburg Star-Independent. 

Heller, John E., was born in 1834, in 
Rush township, Dauphin county, Pa. His 
early education was more or less limited, for 
at the age of thirteen we find him an ap- 
prentice to the art of printing in the office of 
the American, at Sunbury, Pa., where he re- 
mained until he was twenty years of age. 
Afterwards, for several years, he was foreman 



in the office of the Miners' Journal, Potts- 
ville. He then began the study of law, and 
was admitted to the Dauphin county bar 
August 30, 1865, and began the practiced his 
profession at Harrisburg. His life of labor 
was comparatively brief, however, for he died 
rather suddenly at the residence of his father, 
in Rush township, January 30, 1866, aged 
thirty-two years. His remains were interred 
in the Rush church graveyard. "Mr. Heller," 
wrote the editor of the Sunbury American, 
who knew him well, " was a young man of 
exemplary conduct and good character, and 
with industry and good business habits he 
had a bright future before him." 



Shunk, James Findlay, the youngest son 
of Gov. Francis R. Shunk, was born April 
18, 1836. He was educated at Harrisburg 
Academy, and at the University of Virginia, 
at which latter institution he attended a 
course of lectures on the science of law. Per- 
chance the best education he received, and 
that which fitted him peculiarly for the pro- 
fession of journalism, which he adopted, was 
the literary training he received by extensive 
reading and close study of the best English 
authors, and by a careful and rigid observ- 
ance of language and style. He wrote the 
raciest English that flowed from the pen of 
any writer for the press in Pennsylvania. 
His power of sarcasm was immense, though 
he lacked that of invective. Many of his 
articles which appeared in print were at- 
tributed to some of the most eminent men 
of the country, and others often obtained the 
credit which of right belonged to him, so 
modest, unobtrusive, and even sensitive 
was he in regard to any publicity of his 
name as that of the author of the articles 
alluded to. He died quite young, being not 
yet thirtj'-eight years of age, as brilliant a 
journalist as ever held a pen, with intellect 
fully ripened and a wide field before him for 
the exercise of his peculiar talents. He died 
at Harrisburg, January 20, 1874. Mr. Shunk 
married a daughter of Judge Jeremiah S. 
Black, of York. 



Swallow, S. G, was born March 5, 1839, 
near Wilkes-Barre, Pa., in the historic and 
classic valley of Wyoming. He was of 
English-Irish ancestry. Receiving his pre- 
liminary education in the common schools 
in the vicinity of his home, he afterwards 
attended Wyoming Seminary, and com- 



346 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



pleted his education at Susquehanna Uni- 
versity. After his graduation, he at first 
entered upon the business of teaching, in 
which he continued engaged for five years, 
of which one year was passed at the seminary 
above named. 

Having decided on adopting the law as a 
profession, Mr. Swallow entered as a student 
the office of that matchless counselor, Volney 
L. Maxwell. Under such skilled direction 
he would doubtless have obtained an exact 
and extended acquaintance with legal lore 
and practice, and been fitted to shine in this 
profession, had not circumstances and native 
inclination led him to give up the law and 
adopt the ministry as his future calling. 
Having passed through the essential course 
of instruction in divinity, he entered the 
pulpit of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
and thus at length began what has since 
continued the active and useful work of his 
life. In recognition of his high standing in 
the ministry, Taylor University, of Fort 
Wayne, Ind., conferred on him in 1888 the 
degree of Doctor of Divinity. 

Dr. Swallow long continued active in the 
pulpit, filling a number of important posts 
in Central and Southern Pennsylvania. His 
high standing in the church subsequently 
brought him an elevation to the position of 
presiding elder, and for four years he acted 
in this capacity in the district of Altoona, 
Pa., a field of labor that embraces five or six 
counties. He has been twice elected a 
delegate to the General Conference of his 
church, the last time being during the meet- 
ing of this body for the year 1896. 

Within recent years Dr. Swallow has ex- 
changed the active labors of the pulpit and 
the supervising duties of presiding elder for 
literary labor in connection with the interests 
of the church. Four years ago he accepted 
the editorship of the Pennsylvania Methodist, 
an important organ of the denomination 
published at Harrisburg, which he edits with 
a judgment and literary skill that give its 
columns much weight in the counsels of the 
church. He also occupies the important 
post of superintendent of the Methodist pub- 
lishing interests for Central Pennsylvania. 

Aside from the more immediate duties of 
the ministry and the editor's sanctum, Dr. 
Swallow has taken a vital interest in the 
great reform movements of recent times. In 
his younger days, when human slavery was 
the leading evil in this country, he ardently 
entered the ranks of the Abolitionists, speak- 



ing his sentiments with no uncertain voice. 
Later, when slavery had plunged the country 
into war, he ranked as an earnest patriot, 
and a fearless supporter of the Government 
against the rebellion. He subsequently be- 
came equally active and earnest in another 
labor of abolition, that of the legalized liquor 
traffic, of which he has long been and con- 
tinues an uncompromising advocate. Re- 
cognizing that intemperance is the most 
active and dangerous vice in this land, and 
the one that leads to an endless array of 
crimes, diseases, and family and local evils, 
Dr. Swallow is an outspoken champion of 
the cause of prohibition of the sale of ardent 
spirits. His standing in this direction is so 
pronounced, and his services have been so 
useful, that a few years ago the Prohibition 
party tendered him the nomination for gov- 
ernor of the State. 

Dr. Swallow is an able and fluent orator, 
and wields the editorial pen with a trenchant 
power which has given him a widespread 
influence, not only in Harrisburg, where he 
has resided during the past ten years, but 
throughout the State. He is indeed favor- 
ably known throughout the Nation as a 
leading divine in this church, and an active 
advocate of the various reforms which now 
agitate the public mind. 



Ore, D. A., editor and the principal owner 
of the Patriot, daily and weekly, at Harris- 
burg, Pa., was born at Orrstown, Franklin 
county, a town founded by his father and 
brothers, whose name it bears, and was edu- 
cated at the schools of that borough. He 
attended a higher school at Upper Stras- 
burg, and later underwent private instruc- 
tion. Having an early taste for newspaper 
writing, before he was eighteen years old he 
became the associate editor of the Sentinel, a 
Democratic newspaper then published at 
Shippensburg, and subsequently removed to 
Carlisle. From Shippensburg he went, alter 
a somewhat protracted trip through the 
western States and Territories, to Pittsburgh, 
where he resided and was engaged in active 
business until January, 1879 ; at that time 
he purchased the Democratic Chronicle at 
Shippensburg, which paper he sold six 
months later, and, in October of the same 
year, together with his brother, John G., pur- 
chased and took charge of the daily and 
weekly Valley Spirit at Chambersburg. He 
continues as president of the Valley Spirit 
Publishing Company, in which he is the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



347 



principal shareholder. Although he has al- 
ways taken an active interest in poli- 
tics, Mr. Orr has never been a candidate 
for any public office of profit, and says he 
" never will be." He is engaged in a num- 
ber of private enterprises. In 1884 he was 
appointed by Governor Pattison one of the 
trustees of the Pennsylvania State Lunatic 
Asylum at Harrisburg, which position lie 
resigned before his term expired. He was a 
delegate from the Eighteenth Congressional 
district to the National Convention in 1884, 
which nominated Grover Cleveland for the 
presidency the first time, and was again a 
delegate to the National Democratic Conven- 
tion in 1888 which renominated Mr. Cleve- 
land. In 1891 he formed a company, of 
which he was made president, and purchased 
the Harrisburg Patriot, and has since been 
connected with that influential journal, of 
which he is editor and also the president of 
the Patriot Company. Mr. Orr was mar- 
ried in 1885 to Miss Lillian J. Black, of 
Pittsburgh. 

Orr, John G., was born at Willow Grove 
Mills, Southampton township, Franklin 
county, Pa. The year in which he was born 
his parents made their home in Orrstown, a 
town founded by his father, William Orr, and 
and by his brother, John Orr, where he re- 
sided until 1865. He received his education 
in the public schools of that place, and his 
business habits and training from his father 
on the farm where his earlier years were 
passed. He was a general clerk in one of 
the stores of the village, and in that occupa- 
tion he continued until he removed to Car- 
lisle, Cumberland county, to accept a posi- 
tion in the First National Bank of that place. 
In 1874 he returned to his early home, and 
in April of the following year he engaged in 
merchandising until 1879, when, under the 
firm name of John G. & D. A. Orr, he be- 
came one of the editors and proprietors of the 
Valley Spirit and removed to Chambersburg. 
He is one of the founders of the Children's 
Aid Society of Franklin county, and by his 
active and earnest support has added greatly 
to its success. For a number of years he was 
the secretary, and is now the president of the 
society. The founding of a hospital by the 
society in Chambersburg, which is doing 
good work for the suffering, is the result of 
his efforts to that end. For several years 
Mr. Orr was a ruling elder in the Presbyte- 
rian church at Middle Springs, and has twice 



represented the Presbytery of Carlisle in 
the General Assembly of the Presbvterian 
Church. In September, 1885, he was chosen 
a ruling elder in the Falling Spring Presby- 
terian church, of Charnbersburg. In 1891 
he became interested in The Patriot, of Har- 
risburg, and gives his personal attention to 
the business of that influential paner. Mr. 
Orr was married, in 1871, to Miss Martha M. 
Hays, of Middle Spring, Franklin county, Pa. 

McAlarney, Mathias Wilson, son of 
John (1802-1876) and Catharine Wilson 
(1812-1892) McAlarney,was born June 7, 1840, 
in Mifflinburg, Union county, Pa. He was 
educated at Bucknell University. He learned 
the art of printing in the Chronicle office at 
Lewisburg, and for a period of six years pub- 
lished the Potter Journal, a weekly news- 
paper at Coudersport. During the war he 
was provost marshal of the Eighteenth 
Pennsylvania district. He studied law with 
Hon. Isaac Benson, of Potter county, and 
was admitted to the bar February 27, 1867. 
In May of the same year he removed to Har- 
risburg and entered upon the practice of the 
law. From 1874 until the close of 1882 he 
was more or less actively engaged in edi- 
torial work on the Harrisburg Telegraph, and 
in the fall of 1883 he purchased a majority 
of the stock of the Harrisburg Publishing 
Company, publishers of the Daily and Semi- 
Weekly Telegraph, and has continued from 
that date as editor of the Telegraph and man- 
ager of the publishing company. In 1868 
he was appointed clerk to the commission 
to settle the damages done by the border 
raids during the Rebellion, and in 1871, by 
appointment of Governor Geaiy, he was the 
attorney for the Commonwealth in connec- 
tion with the same work in the county of 
Cumberland. In the fall of 1874 he was a 
candidate for the Republican nomination 
for district attorney, with every prospect of 
success, when on the 23d of September he 
was appointed postmaster at Harrisburg, and 
continued in office under subsequent reap- 
pointments until April, 1887. He purchased 
for the Government the land upon which 
the United States post-office was erected. He 
was appointed disbursing agent during the 
construction of the building, and upon its 
completion in lNS"-' was appointed custodian 
of the building. He married, in 1867, Ada, 
daughter of Jacob D. Hoffman, and they 
have two children, Martha Worden and John 
Hart. Three children died in infancy. 



54S 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Liesmann, Frederick W., editor of the 
Pennsylvanische Staats '^Zeitung und Dauphin 
County Journal, of Harrisburg, was born in 
the city of Coeln (Cologne) on the Rhine, 
Germany, October 28, 1845. He received an 
education in the State schools, and attended 
college in his native city. Having a desire 
to see America, he left his native land in 
1864, and has since made his home in this 
country. After a few years of hard labor 
he was chosen by the German people of this 
city to succeed his brother, Rev. Herman 
Liesmann, as teacher of the German school 
then held in the basement of St. Michael's 
German Lutheran church. After instruct- 
ing the German children for a number of 
years, he was elected by the board of control 
to take charge of a German and English 
branch school. He accepted that position 
and was teacher of that school for fourteen 
years. 

He was married, May 24, 1868, to Miss 
Annie Mary Ripper, eldest daughter of the 
late J. G. Ripper, a sketch of whom appears 
elsewhere in this volume. They have seven 
children : George W., Anna C, Ella M., wife 
of Edward Shissler, Jennie McVeagh, Will- 
iam F. C, Mary H, and Clara W. T. 

Besides publishing the leading German 
newspaper of Pennsylvania, Mr. Liesmann is 
president of the Washington and the Teu- 
tonia Building and Saving Associations. He 
is secretary of the Germania and the Will- 
iam Penn Building and Saving Associations. 
He is also president of the German-American 
Union. He has been a notary public for 
twenty-one years. His political views are 
Democratic. He attends St. Michael's Ger- 
man Lutheran church. 

George W. Liesmann, eldest son of Fred- 
erick W. Liesmann, fire insurance agent and 
county auditor, was born in Harrisburg De- 
cember 8, 1868. He was educated in the 
Harrisburg public schools, graduating from 
the high school in 1888. Since that time he 
has been connected with his father's busi- 
ness. He is serving his third year as county 
auditor, two years of that time as secretary 
and one year as president. He is the young- 
est auditor ever elected. 



country and abroad. He passed several years 
of his life on a farm in New York State 
and also in Lancaster county, Pa. He was 
a bookkeeper at Mount Hope furnace, 
Lancaster county, for five years, and then 
went to Philadelphia as clerk in the Phila- 
delphia Bank. Later he was employed as 
assistant to the manager of the Philadelphia 
Bank Clearing House. In 1869 he drifted 
to Kansas for his health and remained there 
seven years. He was employed in the rail- 
road business, during which time he was 
eastern passenger agent of the Missouri, 
Kansas and Texas railway in New York 
City. He was also connected with the Mis- 
souri Pacific railway and latterly with the 
Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe railway, 
with headquarters in Philadelphia. Three 
years ago he took charge of the office of the 
Harrisburg Real Estate Title Company 
while they were completing their work in 
this city. Last fall he formed a partnership 
with W. J. George in purchasing The News 
and has since been actively engaged in the 
management of that paper with his partner. 
Mr. Farnum's excellent business qualities 
have added. largely to place The News where 
it is to-day. Mr. Farnum is a cordial and 
genial gentleman and well known all over 
the United States, particularly in railroad 
circles. In Masonic circles he is a veteran. 
He is a member of Union Lodge, No. 121, 
of Philadelphia, and of Weidle Chapter, of 
Lebanon, Pa. 



Farnum, Henry, was born in the city of 
Philadelphia in theyear 1845. He is the son 
of Henry and Caroline Farnum, formerly of 
Providence, R. I. His father was a prominent 
wholesale dry goods merchant in that city. 
Mr. Farnum received his education in this 



George, William J., of the firm of George 
& Farnum, sole proprietors and publishers 
of The Neivs, was born in Albany, N. Y., 
August 6, 1847. He was educated in the 
public schools and private academies of that 
city. At the age of sixteen years he entered 
the Union army and served until the close 
of the Civil war, being finally mustered out 
in July, 1865. 

During the war Captain George was cor- 
respondent in the field for several news- 
papers, among them being the well-known 
Albany Journal. He took an active part in 
the campaign of the Army of the Potomac, 
although not a voter, in the memorable Lin- 
coln-McC'lelland presidential contest in 1864. 
He distributed thousands of pamphlets and 
circulars on which were printed the plat- 
forms of the parties. These circulars had as 
much as any one other agency to do with 
the large Lincoln vote, owing to the stand 
taken bj' the Republicans on the war, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



349 



the neglect of the Democrats to uphold the 
Union, and their declaration that "the war 
was a failure." 

At the close of hostilities the Captain set- 
tled in the South and for many years was 
located in Virginia, where he took an active 
part in politics, being chairman of the Re- 
publican city committee of Richmond when 
he left there in 1S77 for Harrisburg. In 
Richmond he was connected with various 
newspapers, and also acted as special corres- 
pondent for a number of northern papers 
during the reconstruction days. His letters 
at that period were very interesting, owing to 
the great efforts made to make the South 
solid for Democracy — no matter what the 
means used. 

Since Captain George resided in this city — 
up to July 1 of this year — he was connected 
with the Brainerd & Armstrong Company, 
the celebrated silk manufacturers of New 
London, Conn. His son, Thomas G. George, 
took his place with the above company on 
that date in order to allow Captain George 
to give his undivided time and attention to 
The News. 

The Captain served the city as council- 
man in both branches and is one of its most 
active and progressive citizens. He has been 
and is connected with a number of leading 
enterprises and is an up-to-date business man. 
He is a member of a number of organizations 
and a leader in the Republican politics of the 
State capital. 

He was married at Albany, N. Y., Janu- 
ary 20, 1867, to Miss Annie Henley, daugh- 
ter of Robert and Jennie Henley, of Albany, 
where Mrs. George was born. To their union 
have been born two children, Thomas G. and 
Jennie B., both residing in Harrisburg. He 
also has two grandchildren residing with him, 
Annie M. and Gertrude Goodwin. The 
father of Mr. George is deceased ; his mother 
still survives and resides in Binghampton. 



Spa yd, J. W., born December 10, 1847, be- 
longs to one of the oldest and best known 

I'll 

families in Dauphin county, and is the only 
son of Jonathan Spayd, a well-known busi- 
ness man and retired farmer. He attended 
an academy at Berrysburg and a college at 
Selins Grove, Pa. After devoting more than 
twenty years of his life to the teacher's pro- 
fession, he entered the publishing business 
with E. L. Kellogg & Co., New York and 
Chicago, as manager of the firm's extensive 
business in Pennsylvania. This firm pub- 



lishes the Teacher's Institute, New York 
School Journal, and Primary Education, as 
well as a large list of teacher's educational 
works. He is also connected with the S. M. 
Hess & Bro. Fertilizer Company of Reading 
and Philadelphia. He has two sons, Clarence 
E., editor of the Harrisburg Star-Independent, 
and Charles H., a student at Pennsylvania 
College at Gettysburg, Pa. He lives at No. 
45 North Thirteenth street, Harrisburg. 
Before removing to the Capital city he was 
for many years postmaster at Carsonville, 
Dauphin county. His father succeeded him 
as postmaster when he left that locality. Mr. 
Spayd has always been a Republican, as has 
also been his father, who for forty years or 
more figured prominently in the county 
politics. Father and son are Lutherans, the 
latter being a member of Memorial Lutheran 
church, Fifteenth and Shoop streets, Harris- 
burg. Jonathan Spayd was born July 25, 
1825, and spent fifty-seven years of his life 
in this county, all but a few years having 
been a resident on his fine farm in Powell's 
Valley, near Carsonville. Recently he and 
wife removed to Harrisburg, making their 
home with their son John W., his health 
having begun to fail. For more than forty 
years he was an officer of the Lutheran 
church near his home, and both gentlemen 
are highly respected citizens. 

Jones, Thomas MacDowell, associate edi- 
tor of the Harrisburg Daily Telegraph, was 
born in Hollidaysburg, Blair county, August 
31, 1850. His father was Uriah James Jones, 
the historian, author and journalist, who 
in 1860 removed to Harrisburg. Mr. Jones 
was educated in the public schools of Har- 
risburg, and in 1867 started to learn the 
trade of printer. After finishing his trade 
he secured a situation in the composing room 
of the Telegraph under the late George Berg- 
ner in 1872, and at various times from 1875 
to 1877 acted as city editor. In July, 1877, 
he succeeded John G. Ingram as the city 
editor, and has been on the staff of the paper 
ever since. Mr. Jones is a correspondent 
for Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Chicago and 
New York newspapers, and during the ses- 
sion of the Legislature he is engaged as re- 
porter in that body. His acquaintance with 
public men is very large. When twelve 
years old Mr. Jones enlisted in the army, 
joining the unattached company of Capt. 
DeWitt C. James, of Warren, which was 
camped in Harrisburg at the time, serving 



350 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



eighteen months. Unfortunately, while he 
was enlisted he was not mustered, and as a 
consequence his name does not appear on 
the rolls. He married, in June, 1890, Miss 
Mabel Cronise, of Toledo, Ohio, and has one 
daughter, Dorothea. 



Mumma, Ellis Lewis, is the youngest 
child of the late Hon. David Mumma and 
was born in Harrisburg in 1854. During 
his early boyhood he attended the Harris- 
burg Academy, then, as now, conducted by 
Prof. Jacob Seilev. At sixteen he was sent 
to Bryant and Stratton's Business College, in 
Philadelphia ; completing the course he re- 
turned to Harrisburg, where, at the age of 
seventeen, he was given a clerkship in the 
State Bank. One year later he entered the 
Peal Estate Savings Bank. So thoroughly 
conversant did the young man become with 
the business that at the death of the cashier, 
Mr. Landis, he was, at the early age of 
twenty-two years, made cashier of the bank. 
There was thrilling experience ahead for the 
young man on account of the financial panic 
of 1877, which was then impending. As it 
was impossible, with banks failing all around, 
to make money, the directors concluded to 
close out the concern, the young cashier 
running affairs so smoothly that each de- 
positor was paid to the last cent, in spite of 
the stringency of the times. Until May, 
1883, Mr. Mumma was manager of the Har- 
hurg Daily Patriot, when he was appointed 
draughtsman in the department of Internal 
Affairs, by Secretary J. Simpson Africa. 
At the expiration of Mr. Africa's term Mr. 
Mumma was again connected with the Pa- 
triot, at the same time dealing in the real 
estate business. During October, 1893, he 
became publisher of the Morning Call, which 
built up a wide circulation through the pub- 
lisher's philanthropic spirit. During the 
business depression of 1893 and 1894 Mr. 
Mumma appealed through the columns of 
his journal to the public-spirited and chari- 
tably inclined, and through these means fed 
hundreds of starving people through that 
disastrous time. Mr. Mumma is married to 
a daughter of Hon. B. F. Me.yers and has 
two interesting children, Winifred and Ben- 
jamin Meyers Mumma. 



Witman. The grandfather, Christopher, was 
a tanner by trade and had a family of .three 
sons. The parents were both natives of New 
York, the father being born there in 1823. 
He was engaged in farming and in the lum- 
ber business during his entire life. He was 
married to Miss Margaret Putman, by whom 
he had six children, of whom but two sur- 
vive: Smith, in the lumber business, Gundan, 
Pa., and R. E. He died April 13, 1895. R. 
E. attended the public schools until seven- 
teen years of age, when he went to New 
York and taught school at Caneville for two 
years. In 1881 he began selling books, and 
soon received a good position with the Penn 
Publishing Company. He was afterwards 
taken in as a partner and continued in the 
firm four j'ears, when he withdrew and es- 
tablished the firm of R. E. Witman and 
Company in 1891, at Harrisburg, in which 
he is interested at the present time. He was 
married, February 14, 1884, to Miss Mutam 
Beecher, daughter of Lyman and Susan 
(Kimble) Beecher, and a distant relative of 
Henry Ward Beecher, of New York. Their 
children are: Grace M., Fanny M., and 
Harry E. Mrs. Witman's parents were 
both natives of New York and had a family 
of three children : Bertha, Mutam, and 
Mabel. The mother still survives and re- 
sides in New York. In politics Mr. Witman 
is a Republican and he is a member of the 
Grace Methodist church. The parents of 
both Mr. and Mrs. Witman were members 
of the Baptist church. 



Witman, R. E., publisher, No. 103 North 
Second street, Harrisburg, Pa., was born in 
the State of New York, February 3, 1858, 
and is the son of D. S. and Margaret (Brewer) 



Stackpole, E. J., city editor of the Daily 
Telegraph, was born in McVeytown, Mifflin 
county, Pa., January 18, 1861, son of the late 
E. H. H. and Margaret (Glasgow) Stackpole. 
His father successfully conducted a wagon 
manufacturing establishment and black- 
smith shop for several years. He served one 
term in the Pennsylvania Legislature, and 
died in 1890, in office, holding at that time 
the position of superintendent of the public 
buildings and grounds. E. J. Stackpole is 
one of eight living children of a family of 
eleven. He received a common school edu- 
cation, and learned the trade of a printer in 
the office of the McVeytown Journal. He 
subsequent^ 7 spent three years as editor and 
publisher of the Orbisonia Dispatch, being 
associated with B. F. Ripple. In 1S83 Mr. 
Stackpole became assistant foreman of the 
Harrisburg Telegraph. Later he was em- 
ployed as a reporter for this journal and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



351 



eventually was promoted to the important 
position of city editor. He has been for 
several years, and is now a correspondent 
for a number of newspapers in New York, 
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. He isan active 
Republican and has been commander of 
several leading clubs, among which were the 
Harrisburg Invincibles. He is also a veteran 
of the famous " City Grays," National Guards 
of Pennsylvania. He belongs to Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M. Mr. Stack pole was 
married to Miss Kate Hummel, a daughter 
of the late Albert Hummel, for many years 
a prominent shoe merchant of Harrisburg. 
They have three children : Catherine H., 
Margaret and Edward J., Jr. Mr. and Mrs. 
Stackpole are members of the Covenant 
Presbyterian church, in which he is a 
deacon. 



Spayd, Clarence E., editor of the Harris- 
burg Star- Independent, was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 9, 1869, and is a son 
of John W. Spayd and a grandson of Jona- 
than Spayd. Like so many young men of 
ambition lie has had a remarkably success- 
ful experience in all his undertakings. At 
five years of age he was sent to the district 
school at Carsonville, in the upper end of 
this county. In 1880 he entered the Millers- 
ville (Pennsylvania) State Normal School, 
and it was while at that institution that he 
became interested in penmanship, which re- 
sulted in his being the recognized expert in 
writing in the school. After spending several 
years at that institution, during which time 
he pursued a number of scientific studies, 
and a special course marked out by his own 
inclinations, he followed a line of reading 
embracing all branches of science and litera- 
ture. It was during his school days that he 
made the acquaintance of Miss Edith A. 
Mooney, a talented and ambitious young 
lady, who eventually became his wife. 

Mr. Spayd spent three years in teaching, 
devoting the last year to the schools of Man- 
heim, Lancaster county, Pa., as assistant 
principal. Having gained considerable 
prominence as a penman, he was tendered 
several positions by leading schools of the 
country to teach the art, but preferring 
another field of work he accepted the posi- 
tion as city editor of the Harrisbwrg Inde- 
pendent. When the Star was consolidated 
with that paper he continued to fill that 
position. It was during the first years of 
his newspaper career that the series of arti- 



cles on penmanship which he had been con- 
tributing for several years to the Popular 
Educator, an educational magazine published 
in Boston and Chicago, gained so much 
popularity with teachers of the United States 
that the publishers prevailed upon him to 
write a book on the subject. Shortly after- 
wards, by working during his leisure hours, 
a book of several hundred pages, entitled 
" Complete Manual of Commercial Penman- 
ship," made its appearance. It sprung into 
popularity at once, and Mr. Spayd became 
well known as an author of pronounced 
ability among the leading educators of the 
country. 

He has been a life-long Lutheran and is a 
prominent member of Memorial Lutheran 
church at Fifteenth and Shoop streets, Har- 
risburg, where he is closely identified with 
Sunday-school work, having a class of young 
women. He is also business manager of the 
Memorial Lutheran, a monthly journal pub- 
lished in the interests of the above church. 
Mr. Wien Forney, the venerable editor and 
famous war correspondent, retiring from the 
editorial chair of the daily and weekly Star- 
Independent, which he filled for so many 
years, Mr. Spayd succeeded him and now 
holds that responsible position. This paper 
has a very large circulation in Central Penn- 
sylvania and is in a very prosperous condi- 
tion. As the editor of this well-known news- 
paper he has shown his capabilities as a 
writer and made friends for the paper by his 
fair manner in treating all classes, and hon- 
estly advocating the best interests of the 
people. Although but twenty-six years of 
age he was elected to common council from 
the Second ward in the spring of 1896. Pie 
has always been a staunch Republican and 
is identified with several local interests, one 
of which is the Commonwealth Building and 
Loan Association, of which he is a director. 
He is known for his kind, generous disposi- 
tion, and his lively nature, pleasing conver- 
sation, and courteous and affable manner 
make him a favorite with all who are brought 
in contact with him. His residence at 1611 
Swatara street is one of the cosiest in East 
Harrisburg, being surrounded by a beautiful 
lawn and attractively built. In his library, 
surrounded by his books and with his wife 
and daughter, he spends most of his time 
after leaving the Star-Independent office. He 
is a liberal contributor to many magazines as 
well as some of the leading metropolitan 
newspapers of the country. The Chicago 



352 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Times-Herald is one of his leading western 
papers. His acquaintance with well-known 
educational as well as business and profes- 
sional men has been of inestimable value to 
him in his successful career. 



McCready, Duncan, editor of the Tele- 
gram, was born at Rajahmundry, India, De- 
cember 24, 1870. His father was inspector 
of ordnance in the British army, having 
gone to India at the outbreak of the Sepoy 
Mutiny of 1857. Mr. McCready came to 
this country in 1883, and received his edu- 
cation at Thiel College, Greenville, Pa. He 
commenced newspaper work on the Warren 
Mirror, then he served for a year as night 
editor of the Johnstown Democrat. In 1894 
he became a member of the local staff of the 
Pittsburgh Leader. He assumed editorial 
charge of the Sunday Telegram under the 
new management. 



Plunket, William, M. D., frequently 
called Lord Plunket, was a native of Ireland, 
born about 1720. Little is accurately known 
of his early life, save that he studied medi- 
cine, graduating from the university at Dub- 
lin, and emigrated to America. He first 
settled at Carlisle, where he practiced his 
profession until probably the breaking out 
of the French and Indian war, into which 
service he entered. He was commissioned 
lieutenant in Capt. John Hambright's com- 
pany in Col. William Clapham's battalion, 
June 12, 1756. In the Bouquet campaign 
of 1764 he was surgeon of the Second bat- 
talion, commanded by Col. Arthur Clayton, 
his commission bearing date September 7, 
1763. For this service he participated in the 
Provincial land grants on the West Branch, 
receiving from the Proprietaries six hundred 
acres of land in Buffalo Valley. About 1770 
he removed to what was subsequently North- 
umberland county, locating a little above 
Chillisquaque creek, which he termed "The 
Soldier's Retreat," and became possessed of 
a large estate. He was one of the leaders in 
the so-called Pennamite war at the outset of 
the Revolution. A brief account of his ex- 
pedition to Wyoming is found in " Annals 
of Buffalo Valley," by Hon. John Blair Linn, 
pp. 87-8. At the beginning of the war for 
independence he entered heartily into the 
contest, and was commissioned colonel of 
the Second battalion of Northumberland 
county associators in March, 1776, but for 
some cause or another, possibly at the insti- 



gation of his Wyoming enemies, he was ar- 
rested as being inimical to the principles of 
the Revolution. He was afterwards released 
as nothing treasonable could be proved 
against him. Sabine, in his " American 
Loyalists," imputes crimes to Colonel Plun- 
ket which he had neither fact or foundation 
for. At the close of the war he removed to 
Sunbury, where he died in the earlv part of 
May, 1791. 

Dr. Plunket married Esther Harris, daugh- 
ter of John Harris, of Harris' Ferry, and sis- 
ter of the founder of Harrisburg. . Of a large 
family of children only four daughters 
reached maturity. Of these, Elizabeth mar- 
ried Samuel Maclay, afterwards a senator in 
Congress and a brother of William Maclay, 
who married his cousin, Mary Harris. Isa- 
bella Plunket married William Bell, of 
Elizabeth, N. J. Margaret Plunket married 
Isaac Richardson, of New York State, and 
Esther Plunket married her cousin, Col. 
Robert Baxter, of the British army. De- 
scendants of the first named have been very 
prominent in public affairs in Pennsylvania 
for at least a century. 



Bricb, Innis, M. D., the son of Brice and 
Elizabeth Innis, was a native of Hanover, 
born in 1751. He received a good education, 
studied medicine at Philadelphia, and was 
in the beginning of a successful practice 
when the war of the Revolution broke out. 
He was commissioned a hospital surgeon 
in the Continental service, took ill dur- 
ing the cantonment at Valley Forge in De- 
cember, 1777, returned home and died on 
the 2d of January, 1778, aged twenty-six 
years. He is buried in Hanover graveyard. 
His father, Brice Innis, Sr., born in 1711, 
an early settler in Hanover, was so shocked 
by the sudden death of his son that he died 
a few weeks afterwards, on February 18, 1778. 
Mrs. Elizabeth Innis, born 1715, died Janu- 
ary 3, 1788. Besides Dr. Brice Innis they 
had: Ann, married Irwin; Rachel, mar- 
ried David Sterrat ; Dr. James, who was a 
surgeon of the Pennsylvania Line ; Elizabeth, 
married John Gilchrist; and Mary, married 
Col. Timothy Green. 



Simonton, William, M. D., was born 1755, 
in county Antrim, Ireland ; died April 24, 
1800, in Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. He was brought to this country at the 
age of ten by his uncle, the Rev. John Simon- 
ton, pastor of the Great Valley Presbyterian 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



353 



church, in Chester county, Pa. Under the 
direction of this uncle he received his aca- 
demic and professional education. Soon 
after completing his medical course he en- 
tered upon the practice of his profession, but 
at what place is unknown. In 1784 he pur- 
chased a tract of land called : ' Antigua," con- 
taining one hundred and eighty-two acres, 
situated in West Hanover township), from 
Joseph Hutchison. Upon this farm he re- 
sided all his life. All the traditions which 
have reached us concerning his standard as 
a physician, a man. and a Christian, are 
highly favorable. A fitting testimonial to 
his life, labors and character was prepared 
by the Rev. James Snodgrass, pastor of Han- 
over church, and delivered on the occasion 
of his funeral. His remains are interred in 
old Hanover graveyard. Mr. Simonton 
married, November 17, 1777, Jean Wiggins, 
daughter of Dr. John Wiggins, an officer of 
the Revolution. She was born in 1756 in 
Paxtang, Lancaster count}', Pa., and died 
October, 1824, and buried by the side of her 
husband. 



Luther, John, was a native of Freuhlin- 
gen, German}', born on the 1st of April, 
1756. In his youth he came to America, 
and with either his parents or friends located 
in Virginia, me studied medicine, and 
married in that State, coming to Harrisburg 
in 1785, the year it was laid out, purchasing 
the lot now occupied by the Harrisburg Na- 
tional Bank and the house adjoining, the 
latter of which he erected. Here he at once 
began his profession, which proved a suc- 
cessful one. He was chosen at the first elec- 
tion held under the charter given the bor- 
ough, one of the burgesses, and subsequently 
served as a member of the town council, of 
which body he was at one time president. 

From the " Reminiscences of an Octoge- 
narian," we have this description of Dr. 
Luther: "He was a man somewhat resem- 
bling the great reformer, Martin Luther, if I 
dare judge from the printed representation 
I have seen of the latter. He was of medium 
height and proportionately stout. He was a 
very pleasant man and agreeably received 
whenever he entered company. He carried 
a snuff box and made frequent use of its 
contents. He wore black cloth coal, vest 
and breeches, with buckles on his shoes. 
He was popular as a physician and esteemed 
highly for his skill. He wore his hair in a 
cue, a's was common in the early times of 



Harrisburg, but wherever he went there was 
healing in the creak of his shoes. When he 
felt your pulse, told you to put out your tongue, 
and smelled the ivory on the top of his cane, 
you might be sure he was hunting for a fever, 
or something direful, that might require a 
dose of calomel and jalap . . . Dr. Luther 
was of a jovial disposition, and it was 
said, as was the custom of those days 
when anti-fogmatics was necessary to keep 
off fever and ague, that he ' didn't object to 
his patients taking a little tansy bitters in 
the morning.' His practice was extensive." 

Dr. Luther died at Harrisburg on Monday, 
January 28, 1811, in his fifty-fourth year. 

Dr. Luther married, May 21, 1779, Bar- 
bara Weaver, of Philadelphia. She was 
probably the mother of all his children. 
The doctor subsequently married Eva His- 
ser, born in 1766, died at Harrisburg, Wed- 
nesday, August 15, 1804. Dr. Luther had four 
children : Catharine, Cornelius, Martin, and 
John. All of his sons became physicians. 
Drs. Cornelius and Martin remained at Har- 
risburg, and succeeded, in a great measure, 
to their father's practice. Cornelius died 
quite young and Martin April 29, 1829, 
aged forty-five years. Dr. John Luther set- 
tled in New Holland, Lancaster county; mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of Peter Diller, and 
raised a large family. Catharine Luther 
married Dr. King, of Hummelstown, and on 
becoming a widow married Judge William 
Lyon, of Cumberland county. The remains 
of Dr. Luther, his wife and two sons are in- 
terred in the Harrisburg cemetery. 



McCammon, James, of Scotch ancestry, 
was a native of the county Down, Ireland, 
born about 1778. He was educated at Edin- 
burgh, and received his degree of doctor of 
medicine at the university of that city. He 
subsequentl}' served two years in the London 
Hospital, under that celebrated physician. 
Dr. Fordyce. He came to the United States 
about 1804, and located at Newville, in 
Cumberland county, where he had a very 
general and extensive practice. In Septem- 
ber, 1811, he removed to Middletown, where 
his brother John resided and was postmaster 
— at that period a preferable field to the 
Cumberland Valley — and was very success- 
ful. He died at Middletown on the 7th of 
November, 1815, and was buried in the old 
Presbyterian graveyard on High street, in 
that borough. He left a wife and three chil- 
dren, who afterwards removed to Zanesville, 



354 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Ohio. Dr. McCammon was a skillful sur- 
geon, and ranked high in his profession. 
Socially he was agreeable in conversation 
and of refined manners. 



Verbkke, James C, M. D., was born in 
Holland, in the year 1785. His father was 
a native of that country, and his mother 
was born in Yorkshire, England. The son 
was educated for the ministry, but afterwards 
studied medicine at the university at Leyden, 
where the two degrees of doctor of medicine 
and of pharmacy were conferred upon him. 
After finishing his course he entered the 
French army as physician, and through the 
efforts of his father was assigned to the 
regiment commanded by Colonel Leh- 
manowsky, a friend and acquaintance, with 
the request that he should have a watchful 
care over him. The doctor remained with 
the regiment in all its memorable campaigns, 
being always employed in the provisional 
military hospitals, performing the duties of 
the two branches of the profession only, as 
persons were not allowed to practice more 
than such as were inseparable from the 
other, so that each might thoroughly under- 
stand his calling, and be enabled to gain a 
livelihood. In consequence of this condi- 
tion of things he never was on the field of 
battle, but was always engaged in administer- 
ing to the sick. Even at the battle of 
Waterloo, when the hospital was taken and 
retaken six times in one day by the English 
and French, he saw nothing of the fight. 
After that sanguinary and decisive conflict, 
when the star of Napoleon had set, he en- 
tered the Dutch navy as a physician, on 
board a man-of-war, where he remained two 
j'ears and then resigned. Afterwards, being 
detected in a plot, in which Colonel Leh- 
manowsky was also engaged, to carry off 
Napoleon to St. Helena, they had to flee the 
country, when he was helped by friends to 
reach England, and was engaged by the 
celebrated Scotch navigator, John Arrow- 
smith, as physician on board of his vessel, 
then about making a trip to America, which 
landed at Philadelphia in 1817. The port 
physician, Dr. Perkins, after examining his 
letters of reference and his diploma, immedi- 
ately gave him a situation as clerk in his 
drugstore. Miss Gertrude Kemmelar, hav- 
ing come to America to visit a brother, and 
landing at Philadelphia, chanced to call at 
the drugstore on Second street, near Callow- 
hill, with a prescription, when both coming 



from the same country, and the docter being 
addressed in his own language, an acquaint- 
ance was formed, and in 1818 they were 
married at the house of John Dillinger, a 
friend, with whose family Miss Kemmelar 
stopped. In the year 1819 they removed to 
Harrisburg, where the doctor opened a drug- 
store on Market square in the house of John 
Norton, and practiced medicine in the coun- 
try and all the surrounding towns, traveling 
as far as Halifax, Middletown, and other 
places, on horseback, through which he be- 
came universally known, some of the oldest 
inhabitants still remembering him. After 
a few years of practice he relinquished it, to 
enter into other business, and was successful 
in gaining a considerable estate. Mrs. Ver- 
beke died in 1855, and Dr. Verbeke in 1856, 
leaving two children, William K. and 
Margaretta Dillinger, who married The- 
ophilus Fen it. 



Auchmuty, Robert, M. D., the son of Sam- 
uel Auchmuty, was born near Sunbury, North- 
umberland county, Pa., in the year 1785. 
He was descended from an old Celtic family 
of Scotland. Robert Auchmuty, the first of 
the American family of that name, an emi- 
nent lawyer, was in practice at Boston, Mass., 
as early as 1719. He died in ]'/50, leaving 
several children. Among these, Robert, who 
in 1767 became judge of the Court of Admi- 
ralty at Boston; Samuel, who was rector of 
Trinity church, New York City; and Arthur 
Gates. The latter came to Pennsylvania as 
early as 1765, and located in then Lancaster 
county. In that year we find him commis- 
sioned as an Indian trader, " with permission 
to trade with the natives at Penn's creek, 
Shamokin, and such other forts as may by 
his Majesty or the Provincial authorities be 
established." He first settled at the mouth 
of Penn's creek, on the Isle of Que, and from 
thence removed to the opposite side of the 
Susquehanna, a few miles below Fort Augusta, 
in what is now Lower Augusta township, 
Northumberland country. During the war of 
the Revolution, Samuel Auchmut}', one of 
his sons and father of the doctor, entered the 
patriot army and was in service from the 
winter at Valley Forge until the close of the 
war. The veteran's remains rest in the old 
burial ground at Millersburg unmarked, and 
the spot unknown. Dr. Robert Auchmuty re- 
ceived a good education, studied medicine, 
and began the practice of his profession at 
Millersburg about 1830-31. Apart from the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



355 



duties of his profession he served many years 
as a justice of the peace, being first commis- 
sioned by Governor Ritner. He was an en- 
terprising, active citizen, and a warm advo- 
cate of the common school system, when that 
noble measure was adopted, and was a gen- 
tleman beloved and respected by his fellow- 
citizens. He died at Millersburg in 1849, at 
the age of sixt}'-four, and is buried in the 
new cemetery at that place. He was the 
father of the late S. P. Auchmuty, of Millers- 
burg. 



Reily, Luther, M. D., the seventh son of 
Capt. John Reily, of the Revolution, and 
Elizabeth Myers, was born October 7, 1794, 
at Meyerstown, Dauphin, now Lebanon 
county, Pa. On the death of his father he 
came to Harrisburg, and shortly after began 
the study of medicine with Dr. Martin Lu- 
ther. In the war of 1812-14 he marched as 
a private in Capt. Richard M. Grain's com- 
pany of volunteers to Baltimore, subse- 
quently being detailed as assistant surgeon. 
At the close of the war he resumed the prac- 
tice" of medicine at Harrisburg, and subse- 
quent.ly was at the head of the profession 
there. Although not taking an active part 
in politics, he was more or less prominent 
in public affairs. He was elected to and 
served as member of the Twenty-fifth Con- 
gress. Dr. Reily died at Harrisburg on 
February 20, 1854, deeply lamented by the 
community ^ who appreciated him as "the 
good doctor." His wife Rebecca, daughter 
of Henry Orth, survived her husband only 
a few months. Their children were Eliza- 
beth, died unmarried, Emily, married Dr. 
George W. Porter, John W., Dr. George W., 
and Caroline. 



Keagy, John M., M. D., was born in Mar- 
tic township, Lancaster county, Pa., about 
the year 1795. He was of German descent 
on the maternal side, the name of his 
mother's family being Litzenberg. He re- 
ceived a classical education, studied medi- 
cine and graduated in 1817. In 1819 he 
published a series of educational articles in 
the Baltimore Chronicle, which were reprinted 
at Harrisburg in 1824, in an octavo pamph- 
let of thirty-eight pages. In 1827 Dr. Keagy 
became principal of the Harrisburg Academy, 
and during the same year published his 
"Pestallozian Primer," a work made up 
largely of the more modern object-lessons, 
but under the name of "Thinking Lessons, 



and Lessons in Generalization." By this 
method, as soon as the child knows a vowel 
and a consonant, he is taught to spell and 
read the syllables which they form. In the 
introduction the author advocated the teach- 
ing of a child to read words, "as if they 
were Chinese syllables," and without a pre- 
vious knowledge of the letters, a practicable 
mode which avoids the absurdity of telling 
a child that see a tea (which should spell 
seat) spells cat. He remained at Harrisburg 
about two years, when he went to Philadel- 
phia to take charge of the Friends' High 
School. Shortly before his death, which oc- 
curred at Philadelphia in the winter of 1836- 
37, and is buried in Laurel Hill cemetery. 
Dr. Keagy was elected professor of the lan- 
guages in Dickinson College, but did not 
live to act. Besides being a classical scholar, 
the Doctor knew Hebrew, German ami 
French ; he knew the principles of me- 
chanics, and insisted that steam boilers 
should have more fire surface. Had he been 
brought up as a machinist, he would have 
invented tubular boilers, having constructed 
a copper model composed partly of tubes. 



Wiestling, Joshua Martin, M. D., son of 
Dr. Samuel Christopher Wiestling, was born 
February 28, 1797, in now Susquehanna 
township, Dauphin county, Pa.; baptized at 
Shoop's church by Rev. Christian H. Kurtz, 
and died Januaiy 15, 1854, at Harrisburg, 
Pa. In the year 1811, being then of the age 
of fourteen years, he moved with his parents 
into the town of Harrisburg, where he con- 
tinued to reside until his death. Although 
afforded but limited facilities of acquiring an 
education by attending the schools of that 
period, yet, having the advantage of the in- 
structions of his father, who was a man of 
thorough education and culture, i.nd being 
himself an indefatigable student, reading 
and studying whenever and however the op- 
portunity presented, he grew to man hood with 
his naturally fine mental endowments ad- 
mirably cultivated and liberally developed. 
Of studious habits and love of knowledge, 
these characteristics adhered to him through- 
out his life. A man of original thinking 
powers, and possessed of mental capacity of 
a high order, he gave, notwithstanding an 
extensive and laborious medical practice, 
diligent investigation to all the leading ques- 
tions of the day, and careful study in the 
wide and diversified field of general knowl- 
edge. He was, consequently, upon all the 



356 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



leading subjects of information, a natural 
scholar, and, throughout his whole life, was 
recognized by his fellow-townsmen as in the 
front rank of generous knowledge, and a man 
of very general powers. His special field of 
usefulness, however, was that of medicine. 
In his preparation for his profession his pre- 
ceptors were his father, Dr. Samuel C. Wiest- 
ling, Sr., and an elder brother, Dr. Samuel C. 
Wiestling, Jr., both thoroughly educated 
physicians of skill and wide experience. He 
attended the course of medical lectures of 
the University of Pennsylvania. His father 
becoming disabled to continue in active 
practice by reason of a paralytic stroke in 
the year 1817, he succeeded him in his pro- 
fession, first in partnership with his brother, 
Dr. Samuel C. Wiestling, Jr., which con- 
tinued for a few years, and subsequently 
alone. This was about the year 1821 or 
1822. Acquiring a large and extensive 
practice, both in town and country, he prose- 
cuted the duties of his profession with a de- 
gree of faithful devotion and judicious skill, 
which won for him the admiration and high 
regard of the medical fraternity and the un- 
limited confidence of the whole community 
until his death. In stature he was about six 
feet in height, broad shouldered, of large 
head, erect in carriage, full chested, rather 
stout in figure and person, and dignified in 
appearance. He was of a cheerful disposi- 
tion, affable in his manners, generous in his 
impulses, of sympathetic and benevolent 
habits, unselfish and forbearing, and, as a 
consequence, he was popular throughout his 
life. Dr. Wiestling married, January 22, 
1824, Catharine Youse, born March 24, 1800 ; 
d. March 4, 1854, at Harrisburg, Pa. ; daugh- 
ter of George and Mary Youse. 



Witman, John Otto, was born January 
11, 1802, in Reading, Pa.; died April 12, 
1884, in Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa.; son 
of Benjamin Witman and Margaret Otto. 
He was educated at private schools and the 
Reading Academy. He was a clerk in the 
surveyor general's office under Gabriel Hies- 
ter, during Governor Shulze's administra- 
tion ; studied medicine under Dr. Luther 
Reily, attended lectures at University of 
Pennsylvania in 1826-27; was physician to 
the Dauphin county almshouse in 1827-28; 
received the honorary degree of M. D. from 
the University of Maryland in 1843 ; com- 
menced the practice of medicine in Harris- 
burg in 1827. and continued till 1832, when 



he removed to Gratz, Dauphin county, Pa., 
where he practiced till 1837, when he re- 
turned to Harrisburg and associated himself 
with Doctors Luther Reily and E. L. Orth, 
which continued until 1840; then removed 
to Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa., where he 
continued in an active and extensive prac- 
tice till the fall of 1870, when bodily in- 
firmity compelled him to relinquish all ex- 
cept office work. Dr. Witman married, April 
17, 1828, Caroline Orth, daughter of Henry 
Orth, born 1810, in Harrisburg, and died 
there January 10, 1848. They left several 
children. 



Fager, John Henry, M. D., was born 
March 31, 1806, at Harrisburg, Pa.; died Au- 
gust 18, 1872, at Harrisburg, Pa., and there 
buried. He received careful training and a 
good education ; read medicine with Dr. 
Martin Luther, one of the more prominent 
of the early physicians at Harrisburg, and 
attended medical lectures at the University 
of Pennsylvania. In 1829 he began the prac- 
tice of his profession at Harrisburg, which 
he continued until his death, a period of 
forty-three years. In 1840 his attention being 
called to homoeopathy, the Doctor commenced 
the study of that theory and afterwards 
adopted it in his practice.. He was quite a 
successful physician, and enjoyed the confis 
dence of the community. Apart from hi- 
professional life Dr. Fager was a valued citi- 
zen. For thirty-three years he was a member 
of the school board, during most of which 
period he was secretary or treasurer ; for 
several terms a member of the borough coun- 
cil and for fifty years an active worker in the 
Sunday-school of the First Lutheran church. 
Dr. Fager was twice married. He married 
Eliza Jones, born 1810 ; died October 17, 
1834; daughter of James and Mary Jones, 
and had Albert J., who served as first lieu- 
tenant of company B, One Hundred and 
Twenty-seventh regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, and now an alderman of the city of 
Harrisburg. He married, secondly, March 
29, 1836, Mary Hayes Buffington, born No- 
vember 3,1816, in Harrisburg, Pa., and died 
there December 4, 1893. They had a large 
family. 



Roberts, Edmund Wilson, M. D., young- 
est son of John Roberts, was born about 1806, 
at Washington, Pa. He was a graduate of 
Yale College. His brother, Dr. James 
Roberts, born in 1780, at Washington, first 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



357 



located at Harrisburg, subsequently remov- 
ing to Peoria, 111., where he died about 1834. 
While at Harrisburg, his younger brother, 
Edmund W., came there and studied medi- 
cine under his care, subsequently graduating 
from the medical department of the Univer- 
sity of Pennsylvania. He afterwards located 
at Harrisburg, and entered upon a succesful 
career in the practice of his profession. He 
died at Harrisburg, November 10, 1865, at 
the age of fifty-eight years. Dr. Roberts mar- 
ried Caroline Ross, daughter of Andrew Ross 
and Hannah Templin, of Washington City, 
and a sister of Robert J. Ross, of Harrisburg; 
she died January 23, 1877, at Newburg, N. 
Y.; buried at Harrisburg. They had two 
children : Mary, died in 1867, at Harrisburg, 
married Rev. B. B. Leacock, D. D., of the 
Episcopal Church; Dr. Robert Ross, died 
April 4, 1875, at Harrisburg, at the age of 
thirty-seven, who rose to eminence in his pro- 
fession, married Miss Foote, daughter of Judge 
Foote, of the State of New York, and they 
left two children. 



Shope, David, M. D., son of Jacob Shope 

and Hart, was born July 25, 1808, in 

Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. His grandfather, Andrew Schopp (or 
Shope), emigrated from the Palatinate, Ger- 
many, to America, arriving at Philadelphia 
October 22, 1754, on the ship "Halifax" 
from Rotterdam. He settled in then Lan- 
caster county, married, and was in service 
during the French and Indian war, after- 
wards permanently locating in what is now 
Lower Paxton township, Dauphin count}', 
Pa., on a tract of" land in possession of his 
great-grandson. He had sons Bernhard, 
Jacob, and Adam. The first married, re- 
moved to Centre county, Pa., where his de- 
scendants now reside. Jacob and Adam 
divided the farm, the former of whom sub- 
sequently disposed of his, the latter dying on 
the old homestead at the age of ninety-one 
years. Jacob Shope, who lived to the age of 
eighty-seven, married a Miss Hart, and they 
had issue: Abraham, Jacob, Bernhard, David, 
Barbara, Mary, Elizabeth, and Catharine. 
David, the subject of our sketch, worked on 
his father's farm until the age of sixteen, re- 
ceiving such educational advantages as the 
the country schools then afforded. He was 
afterwards sent to a select school in Cumber- 
land county, and also that taught by Mr. 
Cummings at Brown's school house on the 
Jonestown road. He taught school several 



times, and at the age of nineteen began the 
study of medicine with Dr. Markley, of Man- 
heim, Lancaster county, Pa., and after the 
latter's death with his successor, Dr. Veasy. 
In October, 1832, he located in Hummel's- 
town, where he continued in the successful 
practice of his profession until his decease, 
which occurred December 2, 1842, at the age 
of thirty-four years, and is buried in the 
Hummelstown cemetery. Few practitioners 
stood higher in the confidence and esteem of 
the community in which he lived than Dr. 
David Shope. He never married. 

Kemble, Dr. George S., died at Mifflin- 
burg, Union county, Pa., March 9, 1884. He 
was the eldest son of George S. and Catha- 
rine Kemble, born in this city about the 
year 1825. His father was quite prominent 
in public affairs during the period of the in- 
troduction of the water supply, and was a 
successful merchant tailor. He died during 
the Rebellion, his widow surviving him un- 
til a few years since. Their children were 
Dr. George S., Capt. James R., of the United 
States army, who died while in the service, 
Henry B., also deceased, and Charles C, who 
resides near Wheeling, W. Va. Dr. Kemble 
was educated in the public schools and at 
the old Harrisburg Academy. He studied 
medicine and graduated at Jefferson College. 
He practiced medicine at Philadelphia and 
Harrisburg, and at one time had charge of 
the Jewish Hospital in the former city. Dur- 
ing the war for the Union Dr. Kemble served 
in the medical department of the United 
States arm}' with distinguished credit. He 
served as brigade surgeon on the staff of 
Gen. Isaac I. Stevens and at the battle of 
Chantilly the General fell mortally wounded 
and died in the Doctor's arms. After the 
battle of Antietam he was in charge of Pleas- 
ant Valley Hospital, near Frederick, Md., 
and subsequently was on duty in the south- 
ern department. At the close of the Rebel- 
lion he returned to the active duties of his 
profession, chiefly at Mifflinburg, where he 
was highly esteemed and appreciated. Ho 
was a genial, generous and noble-hearted 
man, and few there be in the home of his 
adoption who had more friends and who will 
be so severely missed. In his boyhood, early 
manhood and mature years he was the same 
delightful companion, and those of his con- 
freres in early years will deeply regret his 
passing away. Dr. Kemble left a wife and 
several children. 



358 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



DeWitt, Dr. William Radcliffe, son of 
the Rev. William R. DeWitt, D. D., and his 
wife Mary Elizabeth Wallace, was born De- 
cember 5, 1827. at Harrisburg, Pa., and died 
May 31, 1891,' at St. Augustine, Fla. He 
was educated at the Harrisburg Academy, 
and graduated in medicine from the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania. After graduating 
he was immediately appointed assistant phy- 
sician of the Pennsylvania State Lunatic 
Asylum, which position he held for about 
seven years. He then traveled in Europe 
studying his profession. He returned to 
Harrisburg with the intention of practicing 
medicine, when he was appointed by Presi- 
dent Buchanan to the charge of the marine 
hospital in the Sandwich Islands at Hono- 
lulu, the capital, and here he remained a 
number of years, when, upon the breaking 
out of the Civil war, he tendered his services. 
He held the rank of major, and was surgeon- 
in-chief of the First division, Fifth army 
corps, of the Army of the Potomac. Here 
he became the intimate friend of many of 
the most noted officers in the Northern 
army. General AVarren was one of his best 
and most intimate friends. He was breveted 
lieutenant colonel for meritorious services 
and bravery on the field of battle. After the 
war he was chief medical officer of Georgia, 
Florida, and South Carolina, stationed at 
Charleston. He afterwards held a similar 
position at Louisville, ~Ky. In 1869 he re- 
signed his commission and took up his resi- 
dence in Harrisburg, and was engaged in 
the successful practice of medicine, when in 
1874 he was compelled to abandon his pro- 
fession and go to Florida on account of his 
ill health, caused b} ? exposure in the army. 
That year he traveled through the State and 
returned in 1875, taking up his residence at 
San Mateo. In his new home he became 
quite prominent, was at one time chairman 
of the board of public instruction for Put- 
nam county, and a Florida newspaper stated 
at the time of his death thatit was largely due 
to his exertions that the school system was 
what it then was. Dr. DeWitt was in poli- 
tics a Democrat and always a strong sup- 
porter of his party. In religious faith he 
was an Episcopalian, and in later j^ears was 
a hard student of theology, in which he took 
great pleasure. In 1889 he was a delegate 
to the General Episcopal Convention. An 
active member of his church, his views and 
opinions in religious matters were always 
held in great esteem and of weight by all. 



He was a man of high intellectuality, of 
strong but just opinions, a strong and 
faithful friend, a pure and devoted Chris- 
tian, and having all those attributes to 
make him honored, loved and respected. 
Dr. DeWitt married, in 1865, Susan E. 
Spangler, of York, who with one son sur- 
vived him. 



Witman, Henry Orth, M. D., was born 
January 22, 1830, in Harrisburg, Pa. He 
was the oldest son of John Otto Witman and 
his wife Caroline Orth. His father was a 
native of Reading, and came to Harrisburg 
as a clerk, under Surveyor General Hiester, 
subsequently studying medicine under Dr. 
Luther Reily, whose wife's sister he married. 
And he was for upwards of forty years a 
successful practitioner, thirty years of which 
were in Halifax, Dauphin county. The son 
Henry Orth was educated in Harrisburg at 
Partridge's military academy, studying med- 
icine with his father and attending medical 
lectures at Castleton, Vt., graduating after- 
wards from the Jefferson Medical College, 
of Philadelphia. Until the war for the 
Union he practiced his profession at Halifax, 
in connection with his father. During the 
Rebellion he served as lieutenant of com- 
pany E, Sixth regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteer militia, and captain of company E, 
Thirty-sixth volunteer militia. In 1866 he 
removed to Harrisburg, where he continued 
in the active practice of his profession, until 
his appointment in 1890 as medical examiner 
in the pension office at Washington. He 
died in that city on the 13th of February, 
1892. Dr. Witman was a learned and con- 
scientious physician, was perfectly reliable — 
could always be depended upon in any 
emergency. His natural modest}' and re- 
serve operated somewhat against him as a 
physician, but it can be said of him that he 
was perfectly free from charlatanism in what- 
ever form it may appear. He married, Oc- 
tober 11, 1866, Frederica Krause, daughter 
of Judge David Krause, of Norristown, Pa. 
They had four children. 



Pitcairn, Hugh, M. D., son of John and 
Agnes (McEwing) Pitcairn, was born in John- 
ston, Scotland, in August, 1845. While in 
his infancy his parents came to the United 
States and settled in Allegheny City, Pa. 
His early education was acquired in the 
common and high schools of that cit}-. In 
1859 he entered the office of the Pennsylva- 











-^^€ 1 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY. 



361 



nia railroad in Pittsburgh to learn telegraphy. 
In less than six months he was directed to 
take charge of the telegraph office situated at 
the end of the double track, Mill Creek, 
Huntingdon county, where he continued one 
year, when he was appointed operator in the 
general office at Altoona. In this place he 
fulfilled the duties of clerk and operator until 
1865, when he was called to Harrisburg as 
assistant trainmaster, and two months later 
received the appointment of acting assistant 
superintendent and superintendent of the 
Susquehanna division, while the directors at 
their ensuing meeting confirmed him as as- 
sistant general superintendent, and in this 
capacity he served two years. He was offered 
the position of superintendent of the Lehigh 
Coal and Navigation Company, with the 
office at Mauch Chunk, Carbon count} 7 , Pa., 
but later was sent by the president of the 
Pennsylvania railroad to Kentucky for the 
purpose of completing and taking charge of 
the Evansville, Henderson and Nashville 
road. After the completion of this road he 
was appointed general superintendent and 
assisted in the purchase of the Edgefield and 
Kentucky railroad, thus making a through 
line from Nashville, Tenn., to Evansville, 
Ind. He continued in charge of this road 
until its sale to the St. Louis and Southeast- 
ern railroad, when he accepted the position as 
superintendent of the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati 
and St. Louis railroad (Pan-Handle route) 
at Pittsburgh, where he continued until the 
early part of 1'875, when failing health com- 
pelled him to resign. He then went to Eu- 
rope, attending clinical lectures in the hos- 
pitals of London, subsequently graduating 
from Hahnemann Medical College, Philadel- 
phia. In 1880 he located at Harrisburg in 
the practice of his profession. Prior to leav- 
ing for Europe he associated with H. C. Dean, 
of Altoona, as proprietor and editor of the 
Daily and Weekly Tribune, one of the largest 
and best inland papers in the State, and has 
continued to hold the same until the present 
time, though taking very little part in its ac- 
tive management since he entered the prac- 
tice of medicine. 



Agnew, Samuel, M. D., the son of James 
Agnew and Mary Ramsey, was born in 1777, 
near Millerstown, Adams county, Pa. His 
parents were Scotch-Irish Presbyterians. He 
received a classical education and was des- 
stined for the ministry, but on his gradua- 
tion at Dickinson College in 1798, he chose 
27 



medicine for his life mission. He studied 
with Dr. McClellan, of Greencastle, and 
graduated at the University of Pennsylvania 
in 1801. He first commenced the practice at 
Gettysburg, but in 1804 came to Harrisburg, 
where he remained until 1835. While at 
Harrisburg he became quite distinguished 
in his profession by his " Treatise on the Effi- 
cacy of Kine Pock Innoculation as a Preventa- 
tive of the Contagion of the 'Small-Pox." He 
originated a plan for the general distribution 
of Kine Pox by the establishment of a lottery, 
and which proved successful. In the war of 
1812 he was one of the first, perhaps the first 
officer who offered his services and that of a 
company comprising the very best men of 
Harrisburg, one hundred and twelve strong, to 
Governor Snyder. As there was no call for men 
this company dissolved in 1813. In 1835 Dr. 
Agnew went to Missouri, where he remained 
a year. From thence to Pittsburgh, Phila- 
delphia, and finally Butler, where he resided 
with a daughter. In 1849, while on his way 
to Temperanceville, near Pittsburgh, he was 
violently thrown from a packet-boat into the 
canal, from which injury or shock he did not 
recover, dying November 25, 1849. Dr. Ag- 
new was a ruling elder of the Presbyterian 
church, Harrisburg, fifteen years, and Rev. 
Dr. Robinson, thus summarizes his charac- 
ter: "He was a man of notable qualities . . 
both in social and professional life, as well as 
in the church, he was promptly accorded a 
place as a leader. Possessed of a sound, clear 
and vigorous mind, well disciplined and pol- 
ished by a thorough course of collegiate and 
professional studies, a man of great activity, 
of fine bearing and a cultivated gentleman, 
who by his courtesy made his presence always 
welcome, it was but natural that he should 
stand at the head of his profession and exert 
in every sphere where he moved a controll- 
ing influence." 



Brown, Mercer, M. D., was born near West- 
chester, Chester county, Pa., April 22, 1795. 
After receiving a thorough academic educa- 
tion, he began the study of medicine under 
Dr. King, of Columbia. He graduated in 
1816, and located at McCall's Ferry, at which 
point many persons at that time were being 
employed in the erection of the bridge over 
the Susquehanna, numbers of whom had 
been attacked b} r severe sickness. He sub- 
sequently removed to Wrigbtsville, where 
he remained several years, when he located 
in Middletown. and until his death, which 



362 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



took place February 19, 1871, he was re- 
garded as the head of the medical profession 
there. Dr. Brown was long a prominent 
actor in local and State politics. He was a 
candidate for Congress at one time, but his 
party being in the minority in the district, 
he was defeated. As a citizen he was highly 
respected and beloved. Dr. Brown married 
Rebecca Wolf!}', daughter of Jacob Wolfly, 
an earlv settler at Middletown. She died 
April 2," 1861. 

Hammond, John Wesley, M. D., son of 
Rezin Hammond and Nancy Lee, was born 
in Anne Arundel county, Md., in 1804. His 
grandfather. Maj. Gen. John Hammond, of 
the British army, came to Maryland in 1764 
and purchased a large tract of land in Anne 
Arundel, and there the father, Col. .Rezin 
Hammond, was born. Young Hammond 
received his education mainly from private 
tutors up to the time of studying medicine. 
He graduated in medicine at the University 
of Maryland in 1825. In 1832 Dr. Ham- 
mond located in Somerset county, Pa., but in 
1834 removed to Williamsport(now Mononga- 
hela City) Washington county, Pa., where he 
continued the practice of his profession. On 
the election of Governor Ritner he was ap- 
pointed, in 1836, chief clerk in the auditor 
general's office, and removed to Harrisburg. 
He held the position thn ugh several admin- 
istrations, and was afterwards for a number 
of j'ears cashier of the State treasury. In 
1853 he removed to Philadelphia, where he 
died in 1879, at the age of seventy-five. Dr. 
Hammond married, in 1826, Sarah, daugh- 
ter of Jonathan Pinkney, Esq., of Annapolis, 
Md., and a niece of William Pinkney, the 
distinguished lawyer, senator and diplo- 
matist. They had children : Rev. J. Pink- 
ney, Dr. William A., formerly surgeon gen- 
eral, United States army, now of New York 
City; Elizabeth Pinkney, Charles Elliot, and 
Nathaniel Hobart ; of these, the first two and 
last named are living. Dr. Hammond is held 
in the highest esteem by his fellow-citizens 
for his urbanity, integrity and intellectual 
ability. 

Wiestling, Benjamin Joseph, M. D., son 
of Samuel Christopher and Anna Maria 
(Bucher) Wiestling, was born September 16, 
1805, in Middle Paxtang, Dauphin county, 
Pa. He was educated in the public schools 
of Harrisburg, whither his father removed 
in 1811, and also the old Harrisburg Aca- 



denry. He began the study of medicine 
with his father, and subsequently continued 
under the instruction of his elder brothers, 
Drs. Samuel C. and Joshua M. He attended 
lectures at the University of Pennsylvania, 
graduating from the medical department of 
that institution in March, 1827. He located 
at Middletown, Pa., where for a period of 
over fifty years he practiced his profession. 
Dr. Wiestling married, June 23, 1831 , Matilda 
Eveline, daughter of Andrew and Hannah 
(Templin) Ross, of Georgetown, D. C. 



Seiler, Christian, M. D., the second 
son of Christian Seiler and Elizabeth Wol- 
farth, was born November 24, 1804, in South 
Hanover township, within a few miles of 
Hummelstown, Dauphin county, Pa. He 
received the rudiments of education, princi- 
pally German, at the village school in Hum- 
melstown. the English language at that date 
being spoken by few families of the neigh- 
borhood. His father removing to Harris- 
burg in 1821, the son was sent to the Harris- 
burg Academy, while that institution was 
under the care of Mr. Hamilton and Mr. 
Todd. He was of aninquiringturn of mind, 
an attentive student, and received not only 
a good English education, but acquired a 
knowledge of Latin and Greek. At an early 
day he had a predilection for military life, 
and in the year 1823 was elected captain of 
of a juvenile infantry company in Harris- 
burg. He commenced the study of medi- 
cine with Dr. Cornelius Luther, a young 
physician of great prominence, who died at 
Harrisburg in 1827, afterwards completing 
his studies with Dr. Samuel Agnew. He 
then attended the lectures at Jefferson Medi- 
cal College, Philadelphia, where he gradu- 
ated in March, 1828. Shortly after he com- 
menced the practice of his profession at Hali- 
fax and vicinity, where his knowledge of the 
German language gave him great advantage. 
His practice extended through Upper Pax- 
tang and Mifflin townships, in fact through 
all that section of country lying west of 
Peter's mountain. He was succeeding well, 
but having married about this time, he con- 
cluded to remove to Williamsport, and for a 
while abandoned his profession for the mer- 
cantile business. The former had more 
charms for him, and after practicing a year 
or two at Williamsport he returned to Har- 
risburg, where he soon secured an extensive 
practice, which he retained until his death. 
In 1844 he was elected brigadier general of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



363 



the militia, after which he was more famil- 
iarly addressed. At the outset of the war 
with Mexico he offered his services, and was 
within afew votes of obtaining the command 
of a regiment of volunteers. 

In politics Dr. Seiler was a Democrat, and 
was several times nominated for the Legisla- 
ture, and thrice for Congress, but although 
his party was in a hopeless minority, it was 
onl} r through strenuous exertions that he was 
defeated. For nearly a quarter of a century 
he served as a director of the public schools 
of the borough of Harrisburg, and took a 
warm interest in educational matters. Up 
to about 1859 Dr. Seiler enjoyed excellent 
health, but at that time symptoms of disease 
of the heart manifested themselves, and he 
was obliged to forego much of the fatigue in- 
cident to his large country practice, in which 
he was greatly relieved by his son, Robert 
H., who had studied medicine under his 
father, and graduated at Jefferson College in 
1860. He was a man of uncommon endur- 
ance, and too frequently he yielded to the 
requests of his patients. In February, 1873, 
after a long ride in the country, where he 
was detained longer than perhaps prudent, 
he was seized with a chill, and pneumonia 
developed itself. From this attack he never 
recovered, dying on the 11th of February, 
1873, at the age of sixty-nine. Dr. Seiler 
married, on the 26th of March, 1833, Mary 
Hayes, daughter of William Hayes, Esq., of 
Lewisburg, Fa. She survived her husband 
only five years, dying at Harrisburg in 1878. 
They had two children who reached ma- 
turity — Dr. Robert H., who died in 1876, 
and Frank S., died December 20, 1879. 



Rutherford, William Wilson, M. D., 
son of William Rutherford and his wife 
Sarah Swan, was born November 23, 1805, 
in Paxtang, now Swatara township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa.; died March 13, 1873, at 
Harrisburg, Pa. He commenced the study 
of medicine with Dr. Whiteside, of Harris- 
burg, then a prominent physician, in 1830; 
and after the removal of Dr. Whiteside, con- 
tinued under the instruction of Dr. Dean. 
He attended the lectures of Jefferson Medical 
College, 1830-32, graduating from that insti- 
tution on March 7 the latter year. He located 
first at Mechanicsburg where he remained 
nearly a year, when, entering into partner- 
ship with his preceptor, Dr. Dean, he removed 
to Harrisburg, where for forty years he prac- 
ticed his profession, winning for himself an 



honorable name not only at home but abroad. 
Dr. Rutherford had what few physicians pos- 
sessed — a most perfect knowledge of diseases 
in general ; and it mattered little what case, 
his diagnosis, when called in consultation, 
was final as it was accurate. An extensive 
practice of over forty years in every depart- 
ment of medicine and surgery gave him such 
a perfect knowledge of his profession that the 
loss of his advice and assistance in difficult 
cases was severely felt by his surviving 
brethren. For eight years prior to his death 
he had been the regular appointed surgeon 
to the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, al- 
though he served it some ten years previous 
when called upon. From the organization 
of the old Harrisburg Gas Company he was 
one of its directors, and, at his death, presi- 
dent of the company. In numerous other 
enterprises he took an active part, and was 
always one of Harrisburg's public-spirited 
citizens. His life was an eventful one, and 
one fraught with many incidents of interest. 
In season and out of season, in life and in 
death, his good-natured face appeared upon 
the stage, gladly, even tearfully, welcome. 
Dr. Rutherford married Eleanor Crain, 
daughter of Col. Richard M. Crain. 



Orth, Edward Lawrence, M. D., son of 
Henry Orth and his wife Rebecca Rohm, 
was born January 4, 1814, in the city of 
Baltimore, Md., and died April 15, 1861, in 
Harrisburg, Pa. His father dying while the 
son was in early life, the mother removed to 
her former home, Harrisburg, where the boy 
was carefully brought up. He received the 
education of the borough schools and entered 
the Harrisburg Academy where he pursued 
the higher branches. He subsequently be- 
gan the study of medicine with his brother- 
in-law, Dr. Luther Reilj', afterwards attend- 
ing the lectures of Jefferson Medical College, 
of Philadelphia, from which institution he 
graduated March 12, 1834. Locating at 
Harrisburg, he began the practice of his 
profession, in partnership with Dr. Reil} r , 
which continued until the death of the 
latter. Few practitioners became as suc- 
cessful as these noted physicians were, and 
none at the capital were ever so deservedly 
popular. For seven years after the death of 
his life-long friend, Dr. Orth continued his 
professional life, enjoying not only a large 
practice, but the confidence and love of his 
numerous patients. As a physician he was 
learned, skillful, self-sacrificing, sympathetic 



364 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and faithful. In the community he was 
greatly beloved for his unassuming, gentle, 
and gentlemanly demeanor. In the lan- 
guage of a contemporary, " he was a man of 
fine culture, an attentive and conscientious 
physician, quiet and unobtrusive in man- 
ner." For many years he was one of the 
trustees of the Presbyterian church, was a 
director of the Harrisburg Bank, and served 
in the borough council. Dr. Orth married 
Martha Cummins Kerr, daughter of Rev. 
William Kerr, of Donegal, and Mary Wilson, 
his wife. 



age of sixty years. Dr. Seiler married, 
March 19, 1842,' Anna Elizabeth Stigleman, 
daughter of John and Rachel Stigleman, of 
Cumberland county, and their children were 
Rev. Galen W., at one time missionary in 
India ; Dr. John P., a bright young physi- 
cian, now deceased, and Clara A. 



Seiler, Jeremiah, M. D., son of Jacob 
Seiler and Christiana Fireabend, was born 
June 27, 1818, in Middlesex township, Cum- 
berland county, Pa. His early education 
was that received in the public schools of the 
country, but he applied himself closely to 
study and soon fitted himself for entering 
upon his life work. He entered the office of 
Dr. Van Huff, of Mechanicsburg, and sub- 
sequently that of Dr. W. W. Dale, under 
whose instructions he pursued the course of 
study outlined as preparatory to his attend- 
ing medical lectures, which he did at the 
University of Maryland, from which institu- 
tion he graduated in March, 1843. He im- 
mediately began the practice of his profes- 
sion, locating in West Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, where he continued until 
the year 1866, when he removed to Harris- 
burg. He was the first in his profession to 
administer chloroform in the practice of sur- 
gery west of Philadelphia. He was also one 
of the first of the interior physicians who in 
1850, when typhoid fever made its appear- 
ance in the rural sections, to comprehend its 
nature and successfully control its fatal ef- 
fects. He was elected to the Legislature as a 
member of the House from Dauphin county 
in 1866, serving for two years. The charac- 
teristics which were peculiar to the man as a 
physician marked his action as a legislator. 
He was studious and deliberate in all that 
he did and said, with a natural .frankness 
and unaffected modesty which never fail as 
manifestations in the character of a truly 
honest man. While a member he served on 
the committees of divorce, accounts, pas- 
senger railways and chairman of that of the 
State Library. With the close of the last 
session of his official position he resumed his 
professional duties, and was actively engaged 
therein at Harrisburg, where he died after a 
brief illness on November 16, 1878, at the 



Dock, George, second child of William 
Dock and Margaret Gilliard, was born 23d 
of May, 1823, at Harrisburg, Pa. Though 
of very delicate constitution, he was sent to 
school at an early age, and received a liberal 
education. In September, 1840. he entered 
the office of Prof. William E. Horner, of 
the University of Pennsylvania, as a private 
student. He matriculated at the medical 
department of the university in the summer 
of 1841, attended the course of lectures at the 
medical institute, and having pursued the 
full course at the university, session of 1842, 
he was elected resident student in Blockley 
Hospital, entering upon his duties the 1st of 
May, where he faithfully served one year, 
gaining no little reputation as a thorough 
anatomist. In the spring of 1844 he gradu- 
ated from the University of Pennsylvania. 
Returning to his home at Harrisburg, he 
assumed the duties of his profession. In the 
autumn of 1845, at the solicitation of Prof. 
Horner, he removed to Philadelphia, and 
the winter following was engaged by the 
former as his private dissector at the uni- 
versity. During the war with Mexico he 
was tendered the position of assistant surgeon, 
Second regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
but his health prevented its acceptance. In 
January, 1847, he was elected physician to 
the Dauphin county almshouse, where he 
served one year. Advised to take a sea 
voyage for the benefit of his health, in Octo- 
ber, 1849, he sailed for Europe, and while 
there visited the different hospitals of Paris 
and London. On his return he resumed the 
practice of his profession. For a period of 
thirteen years he was a member of the board 
of trustees of the State Lunatic Hospital at 
Harrisburg, in 1854 elected a member of the 
Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, 
while in July following Pennsylvania Col- 
lege conferred on him the honorary degree 
of Master of Arts. On the 17th of March, 
1856, he was appointed professor of surgery 
in Philadelphia College of Medicine, which 
he at first declined, but subsequently, by 
great persuasion, he accepted the position. 
During the winter following, his health be- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



365 



coming seriously impaired, he was compelled 
to withdraw from all professional duties. 
In 1860 he made a second visit to Europe, 
and upon his return quietly settled down in 
his office, regaining a handsome practice in 
his specialty — diseases of the eye. In 1861 
he was commissioned surgeon of the Six- 
teenth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
subsequently placed on the board of medical 
examiners to pass on the qualifications of 
candidates for appointment on the medical 
staff of the Pennsylvania forces in the army. 
From this time forward until 1868 his 
health was fair, but subsequently became 
seriously impaired, until at last he was 
obliged to relinquish entirely the duties of 
his profession. On the 10th of August, 1874, 
he was suddenly taken with a hemorrhage 
of the lungs, but not until the 17th of Au- 
gust, 1875, did the Messenger come, and the 
spirit of George Dock pass from his frail 
tenement. Had he possessed the physical 
strength, most of the brilliant suggestions of 
his gifted and active mind would have been 
carried out to a successful result. He had 
by nature a strongly marked, bold, original, 
positive and incisive mind. As it was, he 
was never idle. He made his mark in the 
profession he so dearly loved and highly 
honored. Few men were more greatly 
esteemed, for he was to all genial and kind 
and courteous. Dr. Dock married, Julv 30, 
1844, Clara S. Rehrer, daughter of" Col. 
Thomas J. Rehrer, of Harrisburg, who, with 
one daughter, survived him. 



Rutherford, Levi, M. D., eldest son of 
John and Jane (Meader) Rutherford, was 
born in Paxtang in the year 1826. After 
the death of his father, in 1832, he was 
taken by his uncle, William Rutherford, in 
whose family he remained until he attained 
his majority. He received his education and 
read medicine under Dr. W. W. Rutherford, 
of Harrisburg, graduating at the University 
of Pennsylvania in March, 1849. He at 
once began the practice of medicine at New 
Cumberland, which promised bright, but his 
health failing he was compelled to relinquish 
the duties of bis profession. He returned 
home and undertook the superintendence of 
the farm, hoping thereby to re-establish his 
health. This proved futile, for he gradually 
failed and died at Harrisburg on the 8th of 
February, 1851. Intelligent, amiable and 
upright, Dr. Levi Rutherford's young life left 
a rose-tinted memory in many households. 



Coover, Eli H., M. D., was born in Lower 
Allen township, Cumberland count}', Pa., 
October 21, 1827. He is a son of Jacob and 
Anna (Houser) Coover, natives of Cumber- 
land county. The father was a farmer by 
occupation, and prominent in his region. 
He was an active member of the United 
Brethren church, and prominently identified 
with every branch of church work. The 
parents reared a family of twelve children. 
Eli H. was the seventh son and the ninth 
child of the family. He was reared in Cum • 
berland county, and received his education 
in Mechanicsburg high school. He took up 
the study of medicine under Dr. Augustus 
Vanhoff and later under Dr. Andrew Miller, 
of Harrisburg. He attended the Jefferson 
Medical College, of Philadelphia, and was 
graduated therefrom in 1850. He first be- 
gan practice in New Cumberland, Cumber- 
land county, and continued it there from 
1850 to 1869. He then removed to Harris- 
burg and continued the practice. In earlier 
days he combined the practice of dentistry 
with that of his profession, and is now one 
of the oldest phj'sicians in practice in the 
city. He was one of the founders of the 
Cumberland County Medical Society. He 
is a member of the Dauphin County 
Medical Society, the State Medical Society 
and the National Medical Association. 
He was one of the organizers of the Har- 
risburg Academy of Medicine, being one 
of a committee of five chosen from the 
county medical society to select a suitable 
place to hold its meetings. He was instru- 
mental in securing the present building and 
was chosen the first president of the academy, 
which position lie still retains. He was rail- 
road surgeon of the Northern Central rail- 
way for seventeen yeai'S, from Bridgeport to 
Goldsboro. He served as United States pen- 
sion examiner for twelve years, from 1872 to 
1883, inclusive. He is a stockholder in the 
Harrisburg Bank, Harrisburg Trust Com- 
pany, Central Guarantee Trust and Safe De- 
posit Company, Chestnut street and Broad 
street market houses. He has large real 
estate interests in Harrisburg. In politics 
he is a Republican and was formerly an 
active partisan. He was married, first, in 
1851, to Miss Annie Hummell, daughter of 
David Hummell, Esq., of Harrisburg, who 
died in 1S89. She had two children, namely : 
David H.,of Denver, Col., occulist, and Harry 
R., M. D.j of this city. He was again mar- 
ried, October 1, 1890, to Miss Elsie Coover, 



366 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of Johnstown, Pa. He is not a member of 
any fraternal society or club. He is a mem- 
ber of the First Lutheran church of Harris- 
burg. He is a liberal contributor to chari- 
table institutions. 



Hammond, of Harrisburg ; Emma, wife of 
Lieut. John M. Payer, of Navy Yard, Wash- 
ington, D. O, and Elizabeth Reily, unmar- 
ried. Dr. Porter attends the Presbyterian 
church and was formerly a trustee, and has 
has retired from active church work. 



Porter, George W., M. D., was born in 
Huntingdon, Pa., March 9, 1825, son of 
David R. and Josephine (McUermott) Por- 
ter. He was reared and educated in his na- 
tive place up to his fourteenth year, and 
subsequently took a regular college course, 
graduating from Lafayette' College in the 
class of 1846. His preceptor in the study of 
medicine was Dr. Robb, then resident phy- 
sician of the Eastern Penitentiary, and sub- 
sequently he attended lectures of the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania, from which insti- 
tution he was graduated in 1850. He at 
once began the practice of medicine at Har- 
risburg, in which he continued over twenty 
years and then retired. James Buchanan 
appointed him postmaster in 1857, and 
Governor Pollock made him trustee of the 
Hospital for the Insane, in which office he 
served thirteen years. He was designated as 
prison inspector in 1883, and in January, 
1893, was made secretary of the board. Dr. 
Porter is a Republican in politics, but up to 
the time of the war had been a Democrat. 
He was a warm personal friend of General 
Grant, and was active in promoting his elec- 
tion to the Presidency. Dr. Porter was 
drafted for service in the army, but was re- 
jected on account of impaired health. He 
took an active part in the freeing of the 
slaves. Since 1877 he has been identified 
with the Society for the Prevention of 
Cruelty to Animals, being a prominent and 
active representative of the Pennsylvania 
branch of that society. The Doctor is largley 
interested in farming. Before the incorpora- 
tion of this city he served as school director. 
He has been in the city since 1839 but has 
held no city office. The Grant and Har- 
tranft Club made him president of the organ- 
ization and in this and other ways he was 
active in the work of the Republican party. 

Dr. Porter was married in 1854 to Miss 
Emily Reily, daughter of Dr. Luther Reily, 
of Harrisburg. Sue died September 1, 1889. 
They reared six children : George W., pay- 
master of New York Central railroad, re- 
sides at New York ; Rebecca R., wife of Dr. 
W. Trout, of Spring Lake Beach, N. J.; Car- 
oline Reily, wife of Melancthon S. Holwell, 
Harrisburg ; Josephine, wife of William B. 



O'Conner, Mortimer, M. D., is a native of 
county Kerry, Ireland. He received a classi- 
cal education. He commenced the study of 
medicine at Dublin, in October, 1846, and 
graduated there May 6, 1851. For a period 
of ten years he was connected with the Eng- 
lish service as medical officer. He came to 
America permanently in 1863, and on Feb- 
ruary 13, 1864, married Susan Frances, daugh- 
ter of Jacob M. and Elizabeth E. (Jacobs) 
Haldeman, of Harrisburg. He resides in 
this city partially in the practice of his pro- 
fession. 



Hayes, Joshua Roberts, M. D., son of 
Nathaniel and Matilda (Barwick) Hayes, 
was born in 1832, in New Castle county, 
Del. He received his primary and aca- 
demic education at New Castle Academy, 
and entered the full course at the University 
of Pennsylvania in October, 1852, graduat- 
ing from the medical department of that in- 
stitution in 1855, having pursued previously 
the study of medicine under the late Dr. 
John B. Brinton, of West Chester, and the 
late Dr. George W. Norris, of Philadelphia. 
After graduating, in 1855, he settled in the 
practice of his profession at Rock Island, 111., 
and while there for a period of five years, at- 
tended professionally Abraham Lincoln, Ste- 
phen A. Douglas, and other celebrities in the 
State when they attended the courts of that 
county and district. When the war of the 
Rebellion broke out Dr. Hayes returned to 
Pennsylvania, and in 1861 was commissioned 
surgeon of theSeventy-second regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, and in this and other 
commands served during four years. For a 
period of nine months he was in medical 
charge of Camp Curtin, at Harrisburg, and 
while there examined over ten thousand re- 
cruits. He was in seventeen battles of the 
late war, and performed or assisted in nearly 
eight thousand capital operations. In 1879 
he established at Harrisburg a weekly news- 
paper, The Saturday Night, of which he was 
editor and proprietor. He was the patentee 
for several inventions for paving and devoted 
much time to the production of artificial 
stone, etc., and also for the utilizing of coal, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



367 



and machinery to compress the dust of coal. 
In addition to all these enterprises the Doctor 
found time to practice his profession. He 
married, in 1858, Elizabeth, daughter of John 
and Maria Rutter, of West Chester, and their 
children are: Areta V. and John Lawrence. 

Henderson, James, M. D., son of Dr. Will- 
iam Henderson, was born in the year 1827, 
in Dauphin county, Pa. He received a good 
academical education, studied medicine with 
his father at Hummelstown and graduated 
at the University of Pennsylvania in 1856. 
He began the practice of medicine at Phila- 
delphia, subsequently went to Plymouth, 
Ohio, but his father dying in 1859 he re- 
turned to Hummelstown. During the war 
for the Union he was captain of company 
0, One Hundred and Twenty-seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and was at 
the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancel- 
lorsville, being wounded at the latter. He 
was a brave officer and held in high esteem 
by his fellow-officers and the men of his 
company. He afterwards went into service 
as assistant surgeon of the Two Hundred 
and First regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, and after the war resumed his profes- 
sion at Hummelstown. His practice became 
quite extensive, but his health subsequently 
failed him and he died of consumption on 
Thursday, April 12, 1880, at Hummelstown. 

Peily, George Wolf, M. D., the second 
son of Dr. Luther Reily, and his wife Re- 
becca Orth, was born in 1834, in Harrisburg. 
His grandfather, John Reily, was a captain 
in the Pennsylvania Line of the Revolution, 
in which service he was severely wounded, 
and afterwards a lawyer of considerable 
prominence at the Dauphin county bar. His 
father, Dr. Luther Reily, was one of the most 
prominent physicians in Central Pennsyl- 
vania and was a member of the Twenty-fifth 
Congress. The son, George Wolf, was edu- 
cated at the Harrisburg Academy and at 
Yale . College, from which latter place lie 
graduated in 1854. He studied medicine 
under his maternal uncle, Dr. Edward L. 
Orth, and in 1857 graduated from the medi- 
cal department of the University of Penn- 
sylvania. He was in the active practice of 
medicine for a number of years, but in 1S70 
upon being elected president of the Harris- 
burg National Bank he relinquished his pro- 
fession, holding this position until his death. 
which occurred on the Sth of February, 1892. 



He was a director in many of the leading 
corporations of Harrisburg and of the Union 
Trust Company of Philadelphia. He was 
decidedly philanthropic in charitable work. 
In politics Dr. Reily was a Democrat, and 
in religious belief a Presbyterian, being for 
many years a member of the Market Square 
Presbyterian church. Dr. Reilv married, in 
February, 1861, Miss Elizabeth H. Kerr, 
daughter of William M. Kerr, who with 
three daughters and one son survived the 
honored husband and father. 



Hursh, George R., M. D., third son of 
Christian and Eliza Hursh, was born Febru- 
ary 6, 1835, in Fairview township, York 
county, Pa. He was brought up on his 
father's farm. At the age of sixteen he was 
sent to the Cumberland Valley Institute, 
where he remained about eighteen months. 
He then entered the office of Dr. A. J. Her- 
man, of Carlisle, and began the study of 
medicine and in due time attended lectures 
in Jefferson Medical College, where he grad- 
uated in March, 1857. He first located in 
New Cumberland, where he practiced two 
years, then removed to New Market, York 
county. In September, 1864, he was ap- 
pointed assistant surgeon in the army, and 
was stationed in the United States hospital, 
at York, Pa. Toward the close of the Re- 
bellion he resigned his position, and resumed 
the practice of medicine at New Market. In 
1868 he was elected a member of the Penn- 
sylvania House of Representatives, and the 
following year re-elected. In 1871 he re- 
moved to Harrisburg, and in 1876 he was 
appointed on the medical staff of the City 
Hospital, Harrisburg. Dr. Hursh married, 
iu 1859, Sarah A. Reiff. 



Markley, George H, M. D., pharmacist 

Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Lancaster, Pa., 
March 28, 1833. He is a sou of George B. 
and Elizabeth (Hufnagle) Markley. George 
B. Markley was born in Strasburg, Lancas- 
ter county, and was of Hollandish extrac- 
tion. He spent his life in that county. For 
many years he carried on an extensive busi- 
ness in merchandise. He was a prominent 
man in his community. He died August 
10, 1859. His wife, Elizabeth Hufnagle, was 
a native of Lancaster, whose ancestors also 
came from Holland. She was the last sur- 
viving member of her family, and died Jan- 
uary 27, 1864. They had six children : 
Amos H, died in childhood, Elizabeth M., 



368 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



wife of J. M. W. Geist. died November 8, 
1893, Henry H., died September 21, 1868, 
John B., living in Lancaster, Dr. George H. 
and Samuel B., died September 17, 1868. 

George H. Markley passed his youth in 
his native city and received his elementary 
education in her public schools. He took a 
classical course at Franklin College, Lancas- 
ter. In 1851, at the close of his collegiate 
course, he went Philadelphia and became a 
student in pharmacy. He was graduated 
from the College of Pharmacy with the class 
of 1854. While acquiring a theoretical 
knowledge of his profession, from 1851 to 
1855, he was applying his knowledge and 
attaining to skill through practice by en- 
gagement in the drug store of Peter Will- 
iamson & Son. In 1855 he began the study 
of medicine and graduated from the Penn- 
sylvania Medical College in 1858. He prac 
ticed medicine in Lancaster for a few years. 
He was engaged in the drug business for 
himself in that city until 1866, when he re- 
moved to Harrisburg and has since been in 
business here. 

In 1864 Dr. Markley enlisted as a private 
in the Tenth Pennsylvania volunteers. 
After a short term of service he was honor- 
ably discharged. Since the erection of the 
opera house in 1873 he has been connected 
in various ways with that enterprise. He is 
now senior partner in the firm of Markley 
& Co., managers of the opera house. 
George H. Markley was married in Harris- 
burg, December 2, 1862, to Emma, daughter 
of Charles A. and Barbara (Keller) Snyder, 
early settlers of Harrisburg. They have 
three daughters living : Helen L., wife of 
Simon B. Cameron, residing in Lancaster 
county; Elva G., wife of Ralph Shaw, Esq., 
residing at Little Falls, N. J.; Katherine E., 
residing with her parents. 

Dr. Markley is a staunch Republican, of 
the old Whig stock. He has represented 
the Third ward of Harrisburg as school di- 
rector for one term, and the Fourth ward as 
councilman one term. He is a member of 
Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M., and 
of Post No. 58, G. A. R. 



torney-at-law, located in Illinois, and was 
judge of the Livingston county court for 
eight years; died in 1881, a prominent man. 
Edmund, another brother, graduated from 
the Jefferson Medical College in 1861, lo- 
cated in Huntingdon county, and died in 
the fall of the same year. There were three 
sisters : Mary A., who married Armstrong 
Campbell, both died in Illinois, where they 
resided for more than thirty years ; Mrs. Dr. 
Stewart, of Iowa, and Mrs. Black, of Hunting- 
don county ; and Mordecai, farmer, of Stone 
Valley, Huntingdon county, Pa. The father 
died in 1894, at the age of eighty-six years, 
and the mother died in 1884, aged seventy- 
eight years. William L. was reared in his 
native county. He received his education 
in the Pine Grove Seminary, Centre county, 
Pa., and the Stone Valley Academy. He 
clerked in a store for one year. He read 
medicine under Dr. Matthew Miller, and was 
graduated from the University of Pennsyl- 
vania in 1868. He began the practice of 
medicine at Stone Valley. In 1874 he 
graduated from the Ohio Medical College at 
Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1880 he came to 
Harrisburg, where he has since practiced. 
He conducts a general practice, and is a 
member of the Dauphin County Medical 
Society. He has served as examining 
physician for insurance companies. He is 
Democratic in his political views and is a' 
member of the Masonic order. The doctoi 
was married in February, 1868, to Miss 
Tillie Miller, daughter of Dr. Matthew Miller, 
of his native county. They have three chil- 
dren, namely: Mabel E., wife of John P. 
McPherran, son of Dr. McPherran, of Spruce 
Creek, Huntingdon county, Pa.; Edmund 
L., graduate from the College of Physicians 
and Surgeons of Baltimore; and Grace B., 
who lives with her father. Dr. Duff is a 
member of the M. E. church. He is district 
steward in this church, and also financial 
steward. 



Duff, William L., M. D., was born in 
Huntingdon county, Pa., October 10, 1844. 
He'is a son of John and Barbara (Randolph; 
Duff, of that county. They were farmers by 
occupation, and of Scotch-Irish descent. 
William L. was the youngest of their seven 
children. Jonathan, the eldest, was an at- 



Coovee, Joseph Henry, M. D., son of 
Samuel and Sarah (Stayman) Coover, was 
born June 15, 1838, in Mechanicsburg, 
Cumberland county, Pa. He was educated 
at the Cumberland Valley Institute, Mechan- 
icsburg, where he was prepared for entering 
the junior class of a college course, but de- 
termining to lead a professional life, com- 
menced the study of medicine with Dr. Eli 
H. Coover, in the fall of 1860, and later with 
Prof. D. Hayes Agnew, of Philadelphia, at 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



369 



tending Jefferson College lecture course, 
1861-62. In the spring of the latter year he 
was appointed by Governor Curtin one of 
the commissioners to investigate the sanitary 
condition of the Pennsylvania soldiers in the 
Arm}' of the Potomac. Upon his return he 
went before the United States Medical Board, 
at Philadelphia, for examination, and was 
placed in charge of the reserve of the Fifth 
United States artillery, Army of the Potomac. 
In the fall of 1862 he returned to college 
where he graduated in March, 1863. He was 
afterwards sent as assistant surgeon to the 
general hospital, Nashville, Tenn.; from 
thence to the officers' hospital, at Annapolis, 
Md., where he remained until the winter of 
1864, performing, as Surgeon Baers, U. S. A., 
says, " some of the most difficult operations 
in surgery, and discharging his professional 
duties at all times in a highly scientific man- 
ner, reflecting both credit to himself and honor 
to the medical fraternity." The winter of 
1864-65 was spent in college and in the 
wards of the different hospitals of the city of 
Philadelphia. The following spring Dr. 
Coover located at Harrisburg, in the prac- 
tice of his profession. Desiring to lessen the 
burden of his practice, he was led to devote 
special attention to diseases of the eye, ear 
and throat, and with this object in view he 
went to Europe, where, during the years of 
1878-79, he pursued his studies in these 
specialties referred to in the hospitals of 
Vienna and London, under the most emi- 
nent and skillful surgeons and physicians in 
the world. 

Dr. Coover married, in 1865, Flora L., 
daughter of Col. John Wolford, of York 
Springs, Adams county, Pa. 



Rahter, Charles A., M. D., Harrisburg, 
Pa., born August 8, 1839, near Minden, on 
the Weser, Westphalia, Prussia, is the son 
of Christian and Charlotte (Wehmeir) Rah- 
ter. His father, Christian Rahter, the son 
of a farmer, was born in Prussia, in the year 
1S05, and having an elder brother who in- 
herited the paternal esta e, he, Christian, 
learned the trade of coacli-inaking, immi- 
grated to Pennsylvania in 1842, and settled 
at Conestoga Centre, and emoved to Littles- 
town, Adams county, in the spring of 1847. 
Here Charles A. attended the public schools ; 
in 1858 he entered the classical institute at 
Hanover, Pa., and afterwards took a partial 
course at the Pennsylvania College at Gettys- 
burg. In 1859 he taughtschool at Littles- 



town, Pa., during one session, and then at- 
tended the Littlestown Classical Institute 
for one year. During the winter of 1860-61 
he was engaged as principal of Carroll Acad- 
emy, Union Mills, Md. 

In the meantime his father had removed 
to Woodsborough, Md., and Dr. Rahter com- 
menced the study of medicine therein 1862, 
under the direction of Dr. C. W. Benson ; 
matriculated at the medical department of 
the University of Maryland, IStio, and the 
following year attended lectures at the Long 
Island College Hospital, Brooklyn, N. Y., 
where he was graduated in 1864. Soon after 
graduating, Dr. Rahter entered the Union 
service as acting assistant surgeon, and for a 
time was stationed at Fairfax Seminary, 
United States General Hospital, near Alex- 
andria, Ya. Early in 1865 he was transferred 
to Campbell United States Army General 
Hospital, Washington, D. G, where he re- 
mained until June 1 of the same year, when 
he resigned and went to Harrisburg, Pa., 
and opened an office July 1, 1865. In Au- 
gust, 1865, Dr. Rahter was appointed exam- 
ining surgeon for pensions at Harrisburg, 
and continued to discharge the duties of this 
office until August 20, 1870, when he re- 
signed to accept an appointment as acting 
surgeon in the German army. Dr. Rahter 
sailed for Liverpool on the steamship City 
of Washington, Inman line, from New York, 
in the latter part of August, 1870, with orders 
to report to the German consul at Antwerp. 
Upon arriving at that place he was ordered 
to report to Surgeon General Scholler, Eighth 
army corps, at Coblentz on the Rhine, and 
was there assigned to Huty as assistant sur- 
geon in the Garrison Hospital of that city. 
After serving for a period of four weeks, Dr. 
Rahter was promoted to be staff surgeon, and 
was ordered to St. Johann, Saarbincken, and 
placed in charge of the Barracken Lazarett 
of that city. In January, 1871, he was pro- 
moted to be surgeon-in-chief to the Garrison 
Lazaretto in addition to the Barracken Laza- 
rett, continuing to serve in this capacity 
until July 15, 1871. when he resigned from 
the service. After leaving the German army 
Dr. Rahter made a tour of Germany, France, 
Switzerland, Italy. Austria, England and 
Belgium, returning to Harrisburg, Pa., in 
1872, and resumed the practice of medicine. 
He was one of the founders, in January, 
1866, of the Dauphin County (Pa.) Medical 
Society, president in 1876; is a member of 
the American Medical Association; of the 



370 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Medical Society of the State of Pennsylvania 
since 1868 ; of the Philadelphia Pathological 
Society; of the Harrisburg Pathological So- 
ciety; charter member of the Harrisburg 
Academy of Medicine; was president of the 
Harrisburg Board of Pension Examiners 
1885-89 ; a member of the Harrisburg school 
board for three years, and a member of Per- 
severance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M. The 
Doctor married, November 11, 1875, Miss 
Mary R. Keffer, of Harrisburg, an accom- 
plished vocalist. They have one child liv- 
ing, John Howard Rahter. 



Fager, Charles Buffington, M. D., son 
of Dr. John Henry and Mary (Buffington) 
Fager, was born in the year 1841, at Harris- 
burg, Pa. He was educated at the public 
schools of Harrisburg, read medicine with 
his father, and graduated from the University 
of Pennsylvania, medical department, in 
1864, and commenced the practice of his pro- 
fession at Harrisburg. He was a medical 
cadet in the United States army in 1862, and 
contract assistant surgeon in 1864, vaccine 
physician of Harrisburg, 1866-67, and one of 
the founders of the Homeopathic Medical 
Society, Dauphin county, in 1866. Dr. Fager 
married Susan, daughter of Valentine Hum- 
mel, of Harrisburg. He was a member of 
the board of control of the city schools in 
1884, and was president of same in 1887, 
1888 and 1889. 



Orth, Henry L., M. D., superintendent of 
the Pennsylvania State Lunatic Hospital at 
Harrisburg, was born in Harrisburg, Pa., 
August 17, 1842, son of Edward Lawrence 
and Martha Cummings (Kerr) Orth. His 
grandfather, Henry Orth, settled in Balti- 
more, where he died in 1816. Here Ed- 
ward Lawrence Orth, father of Henry L., 
was born January 4, 1814. After the death 
of his father Edward Lawrence removed with 
his mother's family to Harrisburg, where the 
son was educated in the borough schools and 
the Harrisburg Academy. He began the 
study of medicine with his brother-in-law, 
Dr. Luther Reily, and subsequently pursued 
his studies under the tuition of Dr. George 
McClelland. He was graduated from Jeffer- 
son Medical College March 12, 1834, and 
began practice in Harrisburg, where he had 
eminent success. He died April 15, 1861. 
He married Martha Cummings Kerr, daugh- 
ter of Rev. James Kerr, a Presbyterian min- 
ister, who married Mary, only daughter of 



James Wilson and his wife Mary Elder, 
daughter of Rev. John Elder. They had 
four children : Mary, who married Jacob F. 
Seiler, superintendent of the Harrisburg 
Academy, Henry L., James Wilson, who 
married Miss Bertha E. Ross, and Rebecca 
Reily. 

Henry L. Orth entered Harrisburg Acad- 
emy and from there went to Yale College 
in 1859, remaining until 1861, when at the 
outbreak of the Civil war he was appointed 
acting medical cadet in the service, and in 
1863 commissioned medical cadet in the regu- 
lar army, in which he remained until 1865. 
In May, 1866, he was graduated from the 
medical department of the University of 
Pennsylvania, and soon after located in his 
native city. He was appointed in 1866 sur- 
geon of the Northern Central Railway Com- 
pany and in 1873 surgeon of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company. In August of the 
latter year he was elected visiting surgeon of 
the Harrisburg Hospital, and from 1873 to 
1884 was president of the board of United 
States pension surgeons at Harrisburg. In 
1884, at the organization of the Harrisburg 
Club, Dr. Orth was elected one of the gov- 
erning committee. In 1889 he was ap- 
pointed a trustee of the Pennsylvania State 
Lunatic Hospital at Harrisburg, and on 
August 28, 1891, was elected superintendent 
and physician of the same. 

Dr. Orth was married, June 30, 1868, to 
Miss Elizabeth Bridgeman Dixon, daughter 
of Joseph Shipley and Sarah Edwards 
(Bridgeman) Dixon, of Wilmington, Del., 
and of English-Quaker origin. Dr. Orth 
and his wife are members of the Market 
Square Presbyterian church, of Harrisburg. 
Dr. Orth was a member of the International 
congresses held in 1876 and 1886 and a dele- 
gate from the State of Pennsylvania, and 
was president of the Medical Society of the 
State of Pennsylvania in 1893. 

Points in the genealogy of the Orth family 
are interesting as part of the local history of 
the Commonwealth. Balzer, or Balthaser, 
Orth was born May 5, 1703, and emigrated 
from his home in the Palatinate, Germany, 
to Lebanon county, Pa., about 1730. He 
came from a very old family, from whom was 
derived the name of the village of Orth, sit- 
uated on the right bank of the Danube, about 
fifteen miles east of. Vienna, and which was 
settled about 1170 by Hartneid von Orthe, 
who purchased the village and estates sur- 
rounding it, founded a church and erected a 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



371 



castle. The whole property remained in 
possession of the family for several genera- 
tions, when the proprietor, about the end of 
the seventeenth century, sold out and re- 
moved to Moravia and later to the Rhine. 
Balzer Orth had warranted to him on No- 
vember 25, 1735, three hundred acres of land 
in Lebanon township. He died October 20, 
1788 ; his wife died March 29, 1773. Their 
children were: Adam, John, and Balzer. 
Adam, the eldest, was born March 10, 1733, 
in Pennsylvania, and was brought up amid 
the dangers and struggles of pioneer ; life. 
During the French and Indian war he com- 
manded a company, and in 1769 was one of 
the commissioners of the county of Lancas- 
ter. During the Revolution, although ad- 
vanced in years, he was identified with the 
struggle and appointed sub-lieutenant of 
Lancaster county March 12, 1777. Upon the 
formation of Dauphin county he served as a 
representative in the General Assembly in 
1779 and in 1780. He was opposed to the 
adoption of the Federal Constitution and 
was active in the Harrisburg conference in 
1788. For a long time he owned and operated 
New Market forge, which at his death he be- 
queathed to his sou Henry. He was one of 
the pioneers in the manufacture of iron in 
Lebanon count}'. Colonel Orth married, 
May 24, 1757, Catharine Kucher, daughter 
of Peter and Barbara Kucher, of Lebanon. 
Their children were : Elizabeth, John, Ro- 
sini, Joseph, Maria Elizabeth, Catharine, Re- 
gina, Christian Henry, and Joanna. Of 
these Christian Henry Orth died in Baltimore 
in 1S16. He received a good English educa- 
tion aud was brought up in the iron business. 
At the death of his father he became the 
owner of the New Market forge. In 1801 he 
was elected State senator aud served three 
years. He was afterwards appointed flour 
inspector of the port of Philadelphia, settled 
in that city and engaged in business, remain- 
ing there until the war of 1812, when he 
removed to Baltimore. He was married in 
1794 to Rebecca Rahm, daughter of Conrad 
and Catharine (Weiser) Rahm. She died in 
Harrisburg, December 31, 1843. Adam 
Henry, a son born to them in 1798, was edu- 
cated as a lawyer, and was district attorney 
for Dauphin county in 1827-28, and was 
clerk of the House of Representatives. He 
married Elizabeth Cox. 



Hutton, a native of Cumberland county, Pa. 
Joseph Hutton came to Dauphin county 
when a young man, was a contractor, and 
was afterwards appointed State commissioner 
of canals. He died while holding that office, 
in December, 1847. He was a public spirited 

citizen, and belonged to the Guards, 

of Harrisburg. 

Dr. John C. Hutton was educated at Penn- 
sylvania College, Gettysburg. His preceptor 
in medicine was Dr. R. A. Martin, of Har- 
risburg. He was graduated from the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania, medical depart- 
ment, in 1867, and began practice at Port 
Royal, Juniata count}', Pa., where he con- 
tinued for four years. He returned to Har- 
risburg, and is now one of the oldest and 
best known practitioners in the city. He is 
a member of the Dauphin County Medical 
Society ; is one of its board of managers, 
and has served as president. Dr. Hutton is 
also a member of the State Medical Society, 
and was elected delegate to the American 
Medical Association, but did not attend the 
meeting. For a few years lie was presi- 
dent of the Harrisburg board of health, 
and has done a grand work for the city. 
He was on the first staff of physicians and 
surgeons of the City Hospital, and has for 
years been physician to the hospital. 

Dr. Hutton has served on the Harrisburg 
school board — for the unexpired term of 
Mayor John Detweiler, and during one full 
term. In 1882-83-84 he was president of 
common council. He is a Republican, and 
active in politics. He belongs to several 
secret fraternal orders. The Doctor was 
married, in 1868, to Miss Carrie Mooney, of 
Port Royal, Juniata county, Pa. She died 
in 1SS2, leaving three children: James, of 
Harrisburg, Carrie, and Grace. Dr. Hutton 
was married again, in 1886, to Miss Jennie 
C. Officer, of New Mexico. They have two 
children : Margaret and Dorothy. The 
Doctor isa member of Ziou Lutheran church. 



Hutton, John O, M. D., was born in Har- 
risburg, Fa., December 5, 1845, son of Joseph 



Cook, I. Elmer, M. D., was born at Fiori- 
dale, Adams county, Pa., January 27, 1843. 
He is a son of Thomas E. and Mary (Elden) 
Cook, the former a native of York county. 
the latter born in county Armagh, Ireland. 
His father was an honored resident of Flori- 
dale all his life, and died there in 1879. at 
the advanced age of seventy-nine years. 
His mother died at, Floridale at the age of 
eighty-nine years. They had live children, 
four of whom are living, namely : Frank, of 



372 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Cambridgeport, Mass., Charles, residing in 
the homestead, Benjamin, residing in Cum- 
berland county, Pa., and I. Elmer. A sister 
Martha died at the age of fourteen years. 
The father was engaged principally in agri- 
cultural pursuits. I. Elmer received a pri- 
mary education in the public schools of his 
native town. In 1862 he enlisted in com- 
pany G, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth re- 
giment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and served 
until the close of the war. He was mustered 
out at Harrisburg in June, 1865. He par- 
ticipated in all the principal battles fought 
by the Army of the Potomac. He was 
severely wounded in the right leg in the 
battle of Fisher's Hill, Va., October 19, 1864, 
and was taken to the hospital till convales- 
cent. After his discharge from the army he 
returned home and resumed his studies 
under private tutorship in Philadelphia, 
and completed a collegiate course. He be- 
gan the reading of medicine with Dr. J. H. 
Marsden, of York Sulphur Springs, Adams 
county, and at the same time attended lec- 
tures at the Hahnemann Medical College of 
Philadelphia. He matriculated with the 
class of 1866, and was graduated from the 
same institution with the class of 1868. 
He practiced medicine for three years in 
Hanover, York county. At the expiration of 
this time he removed to Harrisburg, and has 
been continuously in the practice of his pro- 
fession there for twenty-three years. He was 
married at Harrisburg, September, 24, 1885, 
to Sarah T. Mathews, widow of the late Gen. 
A. Mathews, of Lewistown, Pa., and daugh- 
ter of William and Margaretta Shimp. They 
have no children. 



ganization of the Harrisburg Academy of 
Medicine, he took an active part, being 
chairman of the committee to formulate 
plans, and one of the instigators of the same. 
He is the first vice-president of that institu- 
tion. During the Rebellion he served in the 
Second Pennsylvania militia under Colonel 
Wright, and in Captain Lambert's Indepen- 
dent Cavalry company, of Harrisburg. He 
is a staunch member of the Republican 
party, and takes an active interest in the 
welfare of the same. 



McGowan, Hiram, M. D., was born on the 
"Octorora," in Lancaster county, Pa., No- 
vember 6, 1846, and is a son of John and , 
Catherine (Knott) McGowan. He received 
his education at Unionville, Chester county, 
and at Lewisburg, Union county, Pa. He 
then went to Philadelphia and began the 
study of medicine under Dr. C. P. Tutt, at- 
tended the University of Pennsylvania, and 
graduated from the medical department of 
that institution in 1868. On May 21 of that 
year he located in Harrisburg and began 
the practice of his profession, and for many 
years has been recognized as one of the most 
learned, skillful and successful practitioners 
of the city. He is a member of the county 
and State medical societies, and of the 
American Medical Association. In the or- 



Gerhard, Jerome Z., son of William T. 
and Elizabeth (Seibert) Gerhard, was born 
November 6, 1842, in Cherryville, North- 
ampton county, Pa. He was prepared for 
college in the high school at Lancaster, Pa , 
and the preparatory department of Franklin 
and Marshall College, and graduated from 
that institution in 1864. He entered the 
office of Dr. John L. Atlee, of Lancaster, in 
September of that year, and graduated from 
the University of Pennsylvania in 1868, and 
at once opened an office in Lancaster, where 
he remained nearly two years in active prac- 
tice. During this time he was visiting phy- 
sician to the Children's Home, and one of 
the physicians to the Lancaster County Hos- 
pital. February 1, 1870, he entered upon 
the duties of first assistant physician of the 
Harrisburg Hospital, and February 12, 1881 
succeeded Dr. Curwen as superintendent, 
which position he held until November 1, 
1891. During the year 1877 he spent five 
months on the continent, and thoroughly 
inspected the methods of treatment practiced 
in hospitals there. 

Dr. Gerhard is a member of the Dauphin 
County Medical Society, the State Medical 
Society and the American Medical Associa- 
tion ; also the Neurological Society of Phila- 
delphia, and the American Academy of 
Medicine. He was married in 1881 to Miss 
Mary Hill, daughter of George Hill, a promi- 
nent attorney of Sunbury, Pa., and they 
have two children, Elizabeth Hill and Alice 
Hill. The Doctor is an active member and 
an elder in the German Reformed church. 
He is independent in his political views. 



Sensenig, Isaac B., M. D., was born in 
Earl township, Lancaster county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 9, 1847. He is a son of Isaac and 
Eliza (Bowman) Sensenig. 

The Sensenig family is of German an- 
cestry, two brothers having come to America 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



373 



late in the eighteenth century, and landed 
at the port of Philadelphia. Here they 
separated, one locating in the upper end of 
Cumberland Valley, near Hagerstown, Md., 
the other, who was the ancestor of the 
Lancaster county, Pa., bianch of the family, 
settled in the Conestoga Valley, in Earl 
township. Prior to the last three genera- 
tions the members of this latter branch of 
the family have all engaged exclusively in 
quiet agricultural pursuits. They were mem- 
bers of the Mennonite Church, where adher- 
ents must agree not to participate in politics, 
trade or commerce; not to vote at any po- 
litical election ; not to fill an office of trust or 
public honor; not to go to law on the 
offensive; not to take up arms to defend 
life or property; a' peaceable, law-abiding- 
people., promptly paying tax assessments, a 
people peculiar to themselves, by themselves, 
and for themselves; sober, industrious and 
progressive, none ever being found in jail, 
in the almshouse or on public charity. But 
in the last three generations the children 
are breaking away from those peculiar 
domestic, economic and church tenets, and 
are taking an active part in the affairs of the 
world ; joining different church denomina- 
tions, and engaging in politics, commerce, 
trade, science and art. The father was a 
prominent farmer of Earl township. He is 
now retired. The mother was a daughter of 
Samuel and Elizabeth Bowman, pioneer 
settlers of Breakneck township, Lancaster 
county, from whom the town of Bowmans- 
ville in that county derives its name. The 
mother is not living. They had four sons, 
namely : Isaac B., Israel, residing on the 
homestead, Peter, who died in infancy, and 
Samuel, who died in 1892. 

Isaac B. was reared to manhood in his 
native township, receiving his primary edu- 
cation in the public schools. When a little 
over fifteen years old, in 1862, he enlisted in 
the three months' militia. In the spring of 
1864 he re-enlisted in the service of the Gov- 
ernment, joining the One Hundred and 
Ninety-fifth regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers. He served until the close of the 
war, and was mustered out at Washington, D. 
C. He returned home, and began the study 
of medicine with Dr. Isaac Winters, of 
Hingletown, Earl township. He attended 
Belleview Hospital Medical College, of New 
York, graduating with the classof 1869. He 
began the practice of his profession in Denver, 
Lancaster county, at once, and continued 



there for six years. In 1875 he removed to 
Columbus, Ohio, and practiced there six 
years. In 1881 he returned to Lancaster 
count}', and took up the practice of medicine 
at Whitmore, and continued there till 1886. 
During the two subsequent j-ears, from April, 
1886, to September, 1888, he was resident 
physician and superintendent of Lancaster 
County Insane Asylum. In September, 1888, 
he located in Harrisburg. He was married 
in Earl township, Lancaster count}', Pa., in 
July, 1868, to Mary Eby, daughter of Henry 
and Mary (Resh) Eby, Mr. Eby being a 
prominent farmer and stock dealer of Upper 
Leacock township, Lancaster county. To 
them have been born four children, one of 
whom died in infancy. Their living chil- 
dren are: Naomi, Elizabeth and Oliver W. 
Dr. Sensenig is a member of the Lancaster 
County Medical Society. In politics he is a 
staunch Republican. Pie attends the Re- 
formed church. The Doctor was the first of 
the family to enter the medical profession, 
and well remembers the admonition of his 
older relatives: "Do not engage in that 
profession, it is not the proper calling for our 
people;" and telling of the danger of being 
enticed away from the good, pious church 
and social relations. 



Brown, James Morrison, M. D., medical 
examiner of Pennsylvania Railroad Relief 
Department, was born in Chattanooga, Tenn., 
January 16, 1849. He is a son of Rev. Will- 
iam Beard and Mary Elizabeth (Bicknell) 
Brown. Rev. William B. Brown was born 
in Rockbridge county, Va. He was a gradu; 
ate of Maryville College, Maryville, Tenn.- 
was ordained to the ministry of the Presby- 
terian Church in Tennessee, and spent his 
life in the work of the ministry. He was 
stated clerk of Kingston (Tenn.) Presbytery 
for forty consecutive years. He died at Mary- 
ville, Tenn., in March, 1879. He married 
Mary Elizabeth Bicknell, who is still living 
and resides at Maryville. They had nine 
children, of whom eight are living : Dr. 
James M.; Rev. W. B. Brown, a Presbyterian 
minister at Hays City, Kaus.; Mary Ella, de- 
ceased, wife of Rev. R. H. Coulter; Emma 
Edwina, wife of Rev. T. T. Alexander, mis- 
sionary of the Presbyterian Church in Tokio, 
Japan ; Hon. Thomas N., of Maryville, Tenn., 
a lawyer, and for many years member of the 
Legislature; John Fielding, a prominent 
farmer, Maryville, Tenn.; Elizabeth, wife of 
H. H. Hewitt, Williamsburg, Pa.; Erie, wife 



374 



BIOGRA PHI C A L ENCYCL OPED I A 



of Rev. M. N. Rankin, pastor of the Presby- 
terian church, Mason, Warren county, Ohio; 
Ethel, residing with her mother in Maryville. 

James M. Brown, when he was a child, was 
taken by his parents to Spring Place, Mur- 
ray county, Ga., where he spent his early 
life, and where, under the tutelage and in- 
struction of his father, he' received his pri- 
mary education. He was prepared for col- 
lege at Cleveland Academy, Cleveland, Tenn.; 
was graduated from Maryville College in 
1869, and then began reading medicine with 
Dr. J. N. Lyle, of Danbridge, Tenn. In 1872 
he was graduated from the medical depart- 
ment of the University of Louisville, Ivy., 
and returned at once to Maryville, where he 
practiced medicine from that time until the 
fall of 1876. In 18/7 he removed to Mines, 
Blair count}', Pa., where he practiced nine 
years. Since February 8, 1886, he has been 
in the service of the Pennsylvania railroad. 
He was first employed by this company at 
Deny, Westmoreland county, Pa., and in 
March, 1890, was transferred to Harrisburg. 

Dr. Brown was married at Maryville, Tenn., 
June 22, 1875, to Margaret, daughter of 
George and Margaret Bell, of Rock Springs, 
Centre county, Pa. They have no children. 
During his residence in Blair county from 
1877 to 1886, the Doctor was surgeon of the 
Cambria Iron Company. He is an active 
member of La Monte Lodge, No. 568, F. & 
A. M., of Derry ; of Portage Chapter, No. 238, 
of Johnstown, Pa.; of Pilgrim Commandery, 
No. 11, Harrisburg; Harrisburg Consistory, 
32° ; and of Orphans' Home Lodge, No. 315, 
of Williamsport, Pa. He is an ex-president 
of Blair County Medical Society, and ex- 
member of the State Medical Society and the 
American Medical Association. His political 
views are Republican. Dr. and Mrs. Brown 
attend Pine Street Presbyterian church. 



Hartman, Paul Augustus, M. D., was 
born at Lebanon, Pa., December 24, 1850. 
He is a son of John Joseph and Wilhelmina 
(Stoever) Hartman, who removed from Ly- 
coming county, Pa., to Harrisburg, in 1864. 
He obtained his literary education in the 
public schools, at the State Normal School, 
Kutztown, Berks county, and at Dickinson 
College, Carlisle, Pa. Having decided to study 
medicine he entered the office of Dr. Robert H. 
Seiler, of Harrisburg, and pursued the study 
of this science under his instruction. He 
attended Jefferson Medical College and re- 
ceived his diploma from that institution in 



1874. The same year he began the practice 
of medicine in Harrisburg, where he still 
continues and enjoys an extensive and 
lucrative business. The Doctor is a mem- 
ber of the Dauphin County Medical Society, 
the State Medical Society, the American Med- 
ical Association, and was one of the organ- 
izers and charter members of the Harris- 
burg Academy of Medicine. He served as 
secretary of the County Society for several 
years, and in 18S5 he was its president. He 
was once a delegate to the American Medical 
Association. He succeeded Dr. Egle in the 
office of prison physician, and still holds 
that position. He is medical inspector for 
the State Board of Health and also one of 
the physicians to the City Hospital. Dr. 
Hartman is a Republican in politics and is 
active in local matters. He served two 
terms in the common council of the city, 
representing the Fourth ward, being elected 
in 1876. He was a member of the police 
and ordinance committee in this body. He 
was elected a member of the school board 
from the Fourth ward in 1888 and is now 
serving a third term in that board, being 
president of the same. He is a stockholder 
in the Trust Company. He is not a mem- 
ber of any club and is unmarried. 

Meals, Ezra S., M. D., was born at Ben- 
dersville, Adams county, Pa., July 28, 1851. 
He is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth ^Rice) 
Meals. Samuel Meals was born in Menallen 
township, Adams county, and was of Scotch 
and Welsh ancestry. He spent his entire 
life in his native township, where he worked 
at his trade of blacksmithing. From the 
date of his marriage he resided at Benders- 
ville, where he still lives, at the advanced 
age of eighty-one years. He was for twenty- 
five years a justice of the peace and also filled 
acceptably many other offices in his native 
count}'. He raised company G, One Hun- 
dred and Thirty-eighth Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, but did not go out with the men on 
account of his age. He is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal church. In politics he 
is a staunch Republican. 

His wife, the mother of Dr. E. S. Meals, 
was also born in Menallen township. She 
was of German descent. They were married 
in 1839. Mrs. Meals died in i877, at the age 
of fifty-five years. They had seven children, 
one of whom died in infancy; Isaiah died at 
the age of twenty-eight, and Mary Catherine, 
wife of Elias Peters, died February, 1895. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



375 



The children living at the date of this writ- 
ing are: Lucy A., wife of Hiram Yates, re- 
siding at Bendersville; Dr. Ezra S., William 
W., a prominent merchant of Menallen, and 
Ira J., a merchant of Roanoke, Ya. 

Dr. Ezra S. Meals received his primary 
education in the public schools of his native 
town. Later he attended the Normal School 
at Gettysburg, and the Tyson Academy, 
Flora Dale, Pa. He began the study of medi- 
cine with Dr. E. W. Mauma, of Bendersville, 
reading with him for a year ; he subsequently 
studied for a year with his brother, I. J. Meals, 
at Mill Creek, Huntingdon county, Pa. He 
next spent one term in the stud}' of medicine 
and pharmacy in the University of Michigan. 
Another year was passed under the instruc- 
tion of Dr. R. B. Elderdice, of McKnights- 
town, Adams county. He was graduated 
from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, 
Cincinnati, Ohio, with the class of 1874, and 
immediately afterwards began the practice of 
his chosen profession at McKnightstown, pur- 
chasing the practice of his preceptor. After 
practicing successfully in this town for a year 
and a half he removed to Biglersville, Adams 
county, where he continued practice for the 
same length of time. August 16, 1877, he 
located in Harrisburg, since which date he 
has been in continuous practice in this city. 
He ranks among the most skillful and suc- 
cessful of his profession. 

He was married in Biglersville, September 
14, 1875, to Mary L., daughter of Henry G. 
and Margaret Kosser. They have two chil- 
dren, Ira Dale and Harry S. 

Dr. Meals is now serving on the board of 
school directors. He was a member of the 
Adams County Medical Society, and now be- 
longs to the Dauphin County Medical Insti- 
tute. He is a warm supporter of the Repub- 
lican party. He belongs to the Knights of 
Malta, and was formerly connected with other 
societies. 



Gorgas, Solomon R., M. D., was born in 
Cumberland county, Pa., September 11,1853. 
He was the son of Hon. William R. Gorgas 
a sketch of whom appears in another place 
in this volume, and Elizabeth (Hummel) 
Gorgas. He resided in his native county 
until fifteen years of age. He received his 
education at Columbia Yalley Institute, at 
Mechanicsburg, and Muhlenburg College, of 
Meyerstown. He took up the study of medi- 
cine with Dr. E. H. Coover, and attended the 
Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, 



from which institution he was graduated in 
1874. He began the practice of medicine in 
the Philadelphia almshouse, and continued, 
it until January, 1870. He practiced in 
Philadelphia for one year. In 1877 he came 
to Harrisburg, where he conducted a gen- 
eral practice, and also gave special attention 
to surgery until his death, June 30, 1894. 
He was a member of the Dauphin County 
Medical Society, and served as its president, 
vice-president, secretary, treasurer, etc. He 
was a member of the State Medical Society 
and served on some of its most important 
committees. In 1887 he was appointed by 
the board of governors to the position of 
physician to the City Hospital, and for three 
years served as assistantsurgeon of the same. 
He was a stockholder in the Harrisburg 
Burial Case Company, in the Harrisburg 
Furniture Factory and in the City Passenger 
Railway Company, and director of the same. 
As one of the administrators of his father's 
estate he was interested in various business 
enterprises of the city. He was a member of 
the Democratic party, but held no political 
office. He was one of the physicians to the 
Children's Industrial Home, and was resi- 
dent surgeon to the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company from January 1, 1894, until the 
time of his death. He was not married. 



Gorgas, Hon. William R., was born at 
the Gorgas homestead in Lower Allen town- 
ship, Cumberland count}', Pa., May 8, 1S0G. 
He was a son of Solomon Gorgas, who came 
to Cumberland county from Ephrata, Lan- 
caster county, Pa., in 1804. He grew to 
manhood on the farm on which he was born, 
and succeeded to his father's business, the 
management of the farm and a general 
country store. He did not have a regular 
school education, but attended Mt. St. Mary's 
College, Emmitsburg, Md., and then suc- 
ceeded by experience in obtaining a prac- 
tical and thorough business training. Early 
in life he turned his attention to politics. 
He was a Democrat, and in 1830 was elected 
to the lower house of the State Legislature, 
and was twice re-elected, serving through 
the critical period known as the " Buck-shot 
War." In 1841 he was nominated for State 
senator on the Democratic ticket, in the 
district comprising the counties of Cumber- 
land, Franklin and Adams, and was elected' 
Mr. Gorgas was not a debater, but a man of 
good judgment and of strong common sense, 
which, with his tireless industry, made him 



376 



BIO GRA PHIGA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



an influential and valuable legislator. After 
serving one term in the State Senate, he laid 
aside politics and devoted himself to busi- 
ness pursuits, in which he continued active 
until very late in life. He was one of the 
founders and first directors of the banking 
firm of Merkle, Mum-ma & Co., of Mechan- 
icsburg. This firm subsequently became a 
State bank, which was afterwards made the 
First National Bank of Mechanicsburg, of 
which Mr. Gorgas was a director at the time 
of his death. He was also a director of the 
Harrisburg National Bank from 1845 till his 
death. He was a director of the Harrisburg 
Bridge Company, of the Harrisburg Market 
Company, and of the Harrisburg City Pas- 
senger Railway Company. He was presi- 
dent of the Harrisburg Burial Case Com- 
pany, and of the Allen and East Pennsboro' 
Fire Insurance Company. He wasa member 
of the Reservoir Park Commission, and of 
the advisory board of the Children's Indus- 
trial Home. In 1877 he removed from the 
Gorgas homstead to Harrisburg, where in 
1882 he was the Democratic nominee for the 
Legislature. The city was then Republican 
by a majority of five hundred, but he came 
within eighty-eight votes of being elected. 
On March 5, 1840, he married Miss Elizabeth 
Hummel, of Harrisburg, by whom he had 
eight children. His widow and four children 
survive him. His children are: William L., 
cashier of the Harrisburg National Bank; 
George A., druggist; Kate F. and Mary E. 
He was a member of the Seventh Day Bap- 
tist church, and was in every respect a most 
conscientious and exemplary citizen. He 
died December 7, 1892, and his remains were 
interred in the family lot in the cemetery of 
Camp Hill, Cumberland county, Pa. 



Baker, W. C, M. D., was born in Chester 
county, Pa., January 10, 1850; son of Samuel 
and Mary (Rakestraw) Baker. He was reared 
in his native county and received his literary 
education in the public schools and in Mil- 
lersville Normal School. Dr. Henry Car- 
penter was his private preceptor in the study 
of medicine. He took a course of lectures 
in the University of Maryland and later 
attended the University of Pennsylvania, 
from which he was graduated in 1874. He 
began the practice of medicine at Marietta, 
Lancaster count}', and in the fall of 1874 
came to Hummelstown, where he has since 
been in practice and enjoys the leading pa- 
tronage of the place. Dr. Baker was formerly 



a member of the Lancaster County Medical 
Society. In fraternity relations he is asso- 
ciated with Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. 
& A. M., at Harrisburg, and the Knights 
of the Golden Eagle at Hummelstown. He 
is a director of the Farmers' Bank and a 
charter member and director of the Hum- 
melstown Electric Light Company. The 
Doctor is the physician and surgeon of the 
Hummelstown Brown Stone Company and 
of the railroad attached to the same. In 
politics he is Republican and has served as 
school director and also as member of the 
council. Dr. Baker was married, in 1875, to 
Miss A. E. Bare, daughter of Diller Bare, of 
Lancaster count}', and granddaughter of 
Adam Bare, one of the early sheriffs of that 
count}'. They have three children : Mary 
Maud, Gertrude Clair, and Zelma May. In 
church matters the Doctorwas reared in the 
Society of the Friends and his wife in the 
Lutheran Church. 



Ritchie, Melancthon M., M. D., was 
born in Bedford county, Pa., June 5, 1849; 
son of Josiah and Jennie Ritchie, the former 
a native of Bedford, the latter of Cumber- 
land county, Pa. The father was one of the 
prominent and successful business men of 
that county for many years, and later in life 
engaged in farming and is still residing 
there. Melancthon M. was the oldest of ten 
children, was reared in Bedford county, re- 
ceived his education in the public school 
and in the normal school, completing it by 
a special course in Dickinson SeTninary at 
Williamsport, Pa. He read medicine under 
Dr. Joseph D. Streble, of Bedford, and con- 
tinued his reading and practice under Dr. 
G. W. Smith, of Hollidaysburg. In 1874 he 
was graduated from the Jefferson Medical 
College at Philadelphia, after which he prac- 
ticed two years at Saxton, Bedford county, 
and then took a special course at Jefferson 
College. After practicing at Carlisle. Pa., 
six years, in 1883 he came to Harrisburg, 
locating on Market street, where he has since 
been engaged in a general practice. Dr. 
Ritchie is a member of the Dauphin County 
Medical Society. While at Saxton he was 
physician of the Huntingdon Railroad 
Company. In 1865 he enlisted as a private 
in company A, Fiftieth regiment, Ninth 
army corps, and served until close of the 
war, August, 1865. He was present at the 
evacuation of Petersburg. In politics, Dr. 
Ritchie is with the Democratic party and is 




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nt& 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



379 



active in party measures. He was elected 
member of the select council from the Ninth 
ward and served two years, during which 
he was chairman of the sanitary committee 
and of the highway committee and a mem- 
ber of the finance committee. He was also 
elected assessor of the Ninth ward and served 
one year. Grand Army Post No. 58 carries 
his name on its roll of members, and he has 
served as surgeon of the Post. Dr. Ritchie 
was married, in 1871, to Miss Maggie Gil- 
brough, daughter of Jacob Gilbrough, of 
Huntingdon, Pa. Their children are Mar- 
ion Del mar and Elsie N. The family are 
members of the Reformed church, corner 
Third and Chestnut streets. 



Coover, Frederick Welty., son of Jacob 
and Lydia (Welty) Coover, was born Feb- 
ruary 1, 1852, at Coover's Mill, on the banks 
of the Yellow Breeches creek, in Upper Al- 
len township, Cumberland count}', Pa. He 
received his education in the public schools 
of the township in winter and in select pay 
schools in summer. He began the study of 
medicine in 1870 with Dr. W. W. Ruther- 
ford, of Harrisburg, with whom he continued 
six months, when being taken seriously ill 
he removed to his home in Dillsburg. Upon 
his recovery he continued his studies with 
Drs. G. L. and J. M. Shearer of that place. 
In October, 1872, he matriculated at the 
University of Pennsylvania, medical depart- 
ment, where he attended three full courses 
of lectures and in addition the special spring 
course of 1873. He graduated in March, 
1875, and on the 12th of April entered 
upon the duties of resident physician of the 
City Hospital, Harrisburg, being the first 
to fill that position. The year succeeding 
he began the general practice of medicine 
in Harrisburg, was elected one of the visit- 
ing physicians to the hospital, in which posi- 
tion he continues connected with that insti- 
tution. In 1878 he was elected physician 
to the county almshouse and filled that posi- 
tion until 1886. In 1889 he succeeded Dr. 
Seiler as visiting surgeon to the City Hos- 
pital. He is one of the organizers of the 
" Maternity ;" is a member of the Dauphin 
County and State Medical Societies, and 
American Medical Association. _ He has 
been for several years senior surgeon of the 
Harrisburg Hospital, was one of the organ- 
izers of the Academy of Medicine and treas- 
urer of the same. He is a Republican in 
politics and past master of Perseverance 

28 



Lodge, F. & A. M. Dr. Coover married 
April 19, 1881, Elizabeth Faerster, only 
daughter of George and Catherine Faerster, 
of Harrisburg. They have two children : 
Corson and Catherine Lydia. He and his 
family are members of Pine Street Presby- 
terian church. 



Fager, John H., M. D., was born in Har- 
risburg, Pa., September 7, 1854, son of John 
H. and Mary (Buffington) Fager. He at- 
tended the public schools and took the 
regular course of the Harrisburg high school. 
He had Dr. C. B. Fager for his private pre- 
ceptor in the study of medicine, and was 
graduated from the University of Pennsyl- 
vania in 1876. He immediately entered 
upon a general practice in Harrisburg, in 
which he has continued with marked suc- 
cess until the present time. He is a member 
of the Dauphin County Homeopathic Society. 
In his political views Dr. Fager is an Inde- 
pendent, with Democratic proclivities. He 
was married, in 1879, to Miss Olive West- 
brook, of Harrisburg, by whom he has two 
children, Lucy and Paul. Dr. Fager is an 
active and prominent member of the Mes- 
siah Lutheran church, being a member of 
the church council and superintendent of 
the second department of the Sunday-school. 
He is also identified with other relegious 
activities, being the district secretary of the 
Christian Endeavor Society, and formerly 
prominent in the work of the Young Men's 
Christian Association. 



Funk, David Sieber, M. D., was born and 
reared on his father's farm in Juniata county, 
Pa., two miles east of Mexico. He is the 
second son of Samuel and Elizabeth Sieber 
Funk, who had three children ; the eldest, 
John Hudson, died of typhoid fever in the 
autumn of 1872, and the youngest, Mar}' 
Emma, is the wife of McCluney Radcliffe, 
M. D., of Philadelphia. 

The Funks were in Lancaster county, Pa., 
as early as 1718. Michael Funk, the great- 
grandfather of David S., kept a noted hos- 
telry on the old Paxtang road, in East Earl 
township, and removed to Walker township, 
Juniata county, Pa., in 1S05, where he en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits. One of his 
sons, John Funk, grandfather of Dr. Funk, 
chose the avocation of his father. He took 
an active interest in the affairs of his adopted 
county, and was elected to the Legislature of 
1841-42. 



380 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



David S. was born July 17, 1852, and after 
attending the common schools was prepared 
for Princeton College at Airyview Academy, 
Port Royal, Pa., under the professorship of 
David Wilson, Ph. D. He was admitted to 
the sophomore class of Princeton in the au- 
tumn of 1874, graduating in June, 1877. He 
immediately began the study of medicine, 
and entered the medical department of the 
University of Pennsylvania in the autumn 
of 1878, and took the degree of M. D. in the 
spring of 1881. He located in Harrisburg 
in June of the same year, where he has been 
engaged in the general practice of his pro- 
fession ever since. 

Dr. Funk has been a member of the Har- 
risburg Hospital staff for twelve years; was 
a member of the United States Board of 
Pension Examining Surgeons under Har- 
rison's administration. He is vice-president 
of the Dauphin County Medical Society, sec- 
retary of the Harrisburg Academy of Medi- 
cine; is a permanent member of the Medical 
Society of the State of Pennsylvania, and of 
the American Medical Association; was a 
member of the Harrisburg Board of Control 
in 1886-87. He is serving his second term 
as president of the Harrisburg Y. M. C. A., 
and is an ex-officio member of the board of 
directors. 

In December, 1881, he married Matilda, 
youngest daughter of John and Margaret 
Tyson Motzer, Mr. Motzer at the time being 
a retired farmer of Juniata county. The 
Motzers were among the early settlers of 
Perry county. The father of Mrs. Funk had 
two brothers ; the elder, Martin, was for a 
number of years associate judge of the courts 
of Perry county; the younger, Daniel, was 
a Presbyterian minister in Georgetown, D. 
C, at the breaking out of the Rebellion. His 
widow, who was a grand-niece of Gen. 
George Washington, survives him, and is a 
resident of Washington, D. C. Dr. and Mrs. 
Funk have one child, John Clarence, now 
twelve years of age. 

Best, Austin, physician and pharmacist, 
was born in Lower Allen township, Cumber- 
land county, Pa., December 6, 1850. He is 
a son of Martin and Catherine (Eberly) Best, 
natives of Cumberland county. Both parents 
still survive, and reside in Shiremanstown, 
Cumberland county. The father has spent 
his whole life in Cumberland county, and is 
one of the most prominent agriculturalists of 
the region, and a promoter of the growth and 



welfare of the county. He has lived to be 
seventy-five years of age, and is still actively 
engaged in the superintendence of his farm. 
His wife has also been spared to an ad- 
vanced age. They had twelve children, of 
whom nine are living: Sarah Jane, wife of 
William H. Snavely, residing near Mechan- 
icsburg, Cumberland county, a farmer ; Jo- 
seph H., residing at Eberly's Mills, Cumber- 
land county ; Elizabeth C„ wife of Joseph 
Stoner, a prominent farmer of York county ; 
Dr. Austin ; Alice, wife of John Bowman, 
residing near Lisbon, York county, Pa. ; 
Newton, a prominent farmer of York county ; 
Martin, residing at home ; Catherine, resid- 
ing with the parents, and Emma, wife of 
Maurice Miller, grain merchant, residing at 
Shiremanstown. 

Austin was reared to manhood in his na- 
tive township. He received his primary 
education in the public schools. He took a 
collegiate course at Lebanon Valley College, 
Annville, Lebanon county, Pa. He subse- 
quently taught school for three terms, one 
term each in Cumberland, Dauphin and 
York counties. At the expiration of this 
time he began reading medicine with Dr. 
Eli H. Coover, of Harrisburg. In 1876 he 
entered Jefferson Medical College, and 
graduated from that institution March 8, 
1878. He began the practice of his profes- 
sion in New Cumberland, Cumberland 
county, and was engaged there about one 
year. He practiced two years in Dover, 
York county, and one year in Shiremans- 
town, Cumberland county. In 1883 he en- 
gaged in the drug business in Steelton, in 
connection with an office practice, and con- 
tinued to be thus employed until 1889. He 
then removed to Harrisburg, and has since 
been continuously in business in this city 
at his present location. During the last five 
years he has resumed the practice of his pro- 
fession. 

He was married in New Cumberland, De- 
cember 25, 1880, to Miss Emma Thompson, 
daughter of James and Malinda Thompson. 
They have one daughter, Edna May, born 
August 27, 1887. In political views Dr. 
Best is a Democrat. He attends the M. E. 
church. 



Park. J. Walter, M. D., specialist in 
diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, was 
born in what is now Carsonville, Dauphin 
county, Pa., October 22, 1855. He is a son 
of George and Lucetta Park. His father 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



381 



was born in Jefferson township, and is a son 
of Robert Park, a native of England, who 
was one of the first settlers of that township, 
took up a tract of land, cleared a farm, and 
lived and died there. He was a member of 
the M. E. church. He reared a family of 
five children, of whom George was the next 
to the oldest, and was reared on the home- 
stead, with the ordinary educational ad- 
vantages of the situation. He started in on 
farm work, and afterwards engaged in bu}'- 
ing and shipping stock from the west to the 
eastern markets. He afterwards had a store 
at Carsonville for a few years. He subse- 
quently engaged in the lumber business in 
Clark's Valley, shipping lumber to the Har- 
risburg Car Works and the Lykens Valley 
Coal Company, and was a member of the 
firm of the Fifth Wheel Works of Millers- 
burg, Pa. He was also in the lumber busi- 
ness in Centre county, furnishing props and 
mining timber for the coal companies at 
Shamokin and. Lykens, Pa. Mr. Park be- 
longed to the Democratic party, but for the 
last few years of his life was identified with 
the "Prohibitionist party. He was an ac- 
tive member of the M. E. church, and promi- 
nent in Trinity church, Powell's Valley, Pa., 
filling all of the important church offices; 
he was a licensed exhorter. He was once 
nominated for poor director, and served in 
numerous township offices. He died August 
17, 1892, and his wife died January 12, 1895. 
They had a family of six children, namely: 
Sarah J., wife of John Sheetz, of Carson- 
ville ; Arthur, of Harrisburg, with the 
Reading Railroad Company ; Dr. J. W.; 
Thomas R., of Millersburg; Alice and Har- 
riet, who both died in infancy. 

J. Walter was reared in his native town- 
ship to the age of seventeen years, and was 
educated in the public schools. He went to 
Chester, Pa., to study the drug business, but 
finding it too confining, he did Dot long re- 
main there. He returned home and read 
medicine with Dr. H. R. Caslow, of Halifax. 
He attended the Jefferson Medical College 
of Philadelphia, and was graduated in 1878. 
In Ma^', 1879, he was married to Miss Ida L. 
Haverstick, daughter of Mrs. Susan Haver- 
stick, of Millersburg, Pa. He practiced medi- 
cine in Williamstown, Dauphin county, up to 
1889. In this year he went to Europe. He 
was clinical assistant at the Royal London 
Ophthalmic Hospital for six months. He 
studied three months in Berlin, Germany, 
and three months in Paris, in the various 



eye, ear, nose and throat hospitals. He 
returned the last of the year to New York 
City, and was with Dr. Herman Knapp 
in his institute up to March 1, 1890. Dur- 
ing this course he perfected his studies of 
the eye, ear, nose and throat. On March 1, 
1890, he came to Harrisburg, where he has 
since practiced, and is the leading specialist 
in the city. In the fall of 1890 he was 
elected a surgeon of the eye, ear, nose and 
throat department of the City Hospital, and 
to the same place in the Children's Indus- 
trial Home. He is also special examiner for 
the Pension Department of the Government. 
He is a member and ex-president of the 
Dauphin Count}' Medical Society, a member 
of the State Medical Society of Pennsylva- 
nia, fellow of Harrisburg Academy of Medi- 
cine, Pan-American Medical Congress, and 
the American Medical Association. He is a 
charter member and one of the directors of 
the Harrisburg Real Estate and Improvement 
Company, a stockholder in the Harrisburg 
Trust Company, Harrisburg Electric Com- 
pany and the Pennsylvania Steel Company, 
Steelton, Pa. He is also a member of the 
Masonic fraternity. In politics he is a 
Democrat, and was formerly active in party 
matters. 



Ellenbergee, J. Wesley, M. D., was born 
in Harrisburg, February 3, 1858. He is a 
son of Samuel B. and Margaret (Sheridan) 
Ellenberger. He received his literary edu- 
cation in the public schools of Harrisburg, 
graduating from the high school in 1875. 
While a student in the high school he was 
a carrier of the Daily Telegraph. He read 
medicine under Dr. George R. Hursh, of 
Harrisburg, and entered Jefferson Medical 
College of Philadelphia, from which he was 
graduated in 1879. He at once began the 
practice of medicine in Harrisburg, and has 
been eminently successful. From the time 
of his graduation until the present, he has 
been connected with the Harrisburg Hos- 
pital, first as resident physician and subse- 
quently as visiting physician; he is now the 
senior visiting physician of the medical staff. 
He served as county physician in 1886. The 
Doctor has been honored by his professional 
brethren, who have elected him president of 
the Dauphin County Medical Society and of 
the Harrisburg Pathological Society. He is 
now a trustee of the Harrisburg Academy of 
Medicine. He is a member of the State 



382 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Medical Society and of the American Medi- 
cal Association. 

Dr. Ellenberger served on the city school 
board for two terms, during a portion of 
which time he was chairman of the commit- 
tee on teachers, and did much to secure the 
observance of civil service rules in the selec- 
tion and promotion of teachers, the opera- 
tion of which has abated the evils of influ- 
ence and favoritism on the part of the board. 
The Doctor is not politically ambitious, and 
has not sought official preferment and promi- 
nence. His preferences are decidedly with 
the Republican party, but he has strong 
Prohibition proclivities. In the independ- 
ent citizens' movement for the reform of 
municipal government, he was universally 
recognized as the best exponent of the prin- 
ciples upheld by those who sustained that 
movement. Without his knowledge or con- 
sent, and contrary to his desire, he was 
nominated for maj'or of Harrisburg. Con- 
strained and animated solely by convictions 
of duty, he accepted the nomination. His 
letter of acceptance is the best possible reve- 
lation of his character and conduct as a man 
and a citizen, and is here partially quoted 
for this purpose. 

" When informed that I had been nom- 
inated for the important office of mayor of 
this city, I experienced a sensation such as 
is occasioned by the traditional clap of 
thunder from a clear sky. My first impulse 
was to decline the honor, gratefully acknowl- 
edging the distinction which had been con- 
ferred upon me. However, since hundreds 
of voters of ail parties have urged me to ac- 
cept in the interest of good government, I 
have concluded that it is my duty to ac- 
quiesce in their desires. 

" I, therefore, accept the nomination which 
has been tendered to me, and make the fol- 
lowing pledges : 

"Should the people elect me mayor of this 
city, I agree that I will faithfully perform 
my duties, realizing my responsibility to 
God, as well as to my fellow-citizens for the 
manner in which I shall acquit myself. 

" I will enforce the ordinances without 
fear or favor. 

" I will nominate as my subordinates the 
cleanest and most efficient men that I can 
secure, without regard to party affiliation. 

" I will conduct the office as a non- 
partisan, acknowledging that my election 
must be by the people. 



" I will permit no black-mailing or bribery 
on the part of those under my authority." 

The Doctor is also identified with a num- 
ber of the business interests of the city, and 
has always been ready to promote move- 
ments for the material welfare of the city. 
He is a stockholder, and has been one of the 
managers of the Harrisburg Boot and Shoe 
Manufacturing Company since its organiza- 
tion. He was one of the organizers of the 
Harris Building and Loan Association, in 
which he is deeply interested, and is one of 
the managers. 

From boyhood the Doctor has been a mem- 
ber of Grace Methodist Episcopal church, 
and is actively identified with all its in- 
terests. He holds the office of steward in 
the church, and is the general superin- 
tendent of the large Sabbath -school con- 
nected with the church. He served for a 
number of years as one of the managers and 
for two years as the president of the Young 
Men's Christian Association. In all these 
positions of responsibility and trust the 
Doctor has proved himself faithful and 
efficient. 

He was married, in 1891, to Miss Annie 
E. Baskin, daughter of Robert Baskin, of 
Harrisburg, by whom he has one child, 
Robert Baskin. 



Fritchey, John A., M. D., was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., September 28, 1857. He is 
a son of John F. Fritchey, a native of Cham- 
bersburg, Franklin county, Pa., who came to 
Dauphin county when a young man. He 
married Miss Annie M. Hoon, of Coxestown, 
Dauphin county, Pa. He engaged in con- 
tracting, and afterwards was employed by the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company. He was 
the engineer of the first locomotive on the 
Northern Central railroad, and was then 
transferred to the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, where he was employed for some 
years. He is now retired from business, and 
resides in Harrisburg. 

John A. Fritchey is the eldest of six 
children. He was educated in the Harris- 
burg high school and Harrisburg Academy. 
He read medicine under Dr. C. B. Fager, 
graduated from the medical department of 
the University of Pennsylvania in 1879, and 
has since practiced in Harrisburg. He is a 
member of the Dauphin County Medical So- 
ciety, and has served as president of the 
same. He is also a member of the State 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



383 



Medical Society and of the National Medical 
Association. 

Dr. Fritchey belongs to the Senior and 
Junior Orders of American Mechanics, K. of 
G. E., the Royal Arcanum, B. P. 0. E, etc. 
Politically he is a Democrat, and one of the 
active leaders in the party. He has repre- 
sented the Second ward of Harrisburg in the 
common council for one term, and for two 
terms in the select council. In 1887 he was 
elected to the office of mayor, and re-elected 
:n 1890. During his term of office as mayor, 
Dr. Fritchey established the police patrol 
system and the ambulance service, which 
had been attempted by his predecessor. He 
also kept alive the " Mayor's quick charity 
fund," which was established by Mayor Wil- 
son. He is assistant surgeon of the Gover- 
nor's Troop, and was formerlj' assistant sur- 
geon of the Pennsylvania and Northern Cen- 
tral Railroad companies, before his election 
to the office of mayor. He has real estate 
interests in Harrisburg. 

Dr. Fritchey is a stockholder in the Har- 
risburg Electric Light Company, the Harris- 
burg Casket Works, and theMonaghan &Bay 
Shoe Factory, a stockholder and director in 
the Harrisburg Implement Company, and a 
stockholder in the Walnut Street Bridge 
Company. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church, and is unmarried. 



Swartz, J. Ross, M. D. — The best repre- 
sentatives of all the learned professions are 
naturally and strongly drawn toward the 
centers of dense population. This is not only 
because life in large cities is more attractive, 
but more for the reason that the intimate and 
intricate relationships and associations created 
by the close assemblage of large numbers of 
human beings are the source and origin of 
those human wants and needs which the 
learned professions are designed to supply. 
Hence there is a continuous contribution of 
bright and aspiring young men from the 
country and smaller towns to the city, by 
which the professional ranks of the city are 
kept full. In this way Harrisburg received 
a valuable addition to its corps of physicians 
and surgeons in the person of Dr. Swartz. 

He was born in McVeytown, Mifflin county, 
Pa., January 26, 1857. His father is Dr. 
J. S. Swartz, a native of Pennsylvania, and 
his mother is Matilda (Lewis) Swartz, a niece 
of the distinguished statesman and diplomat, 



Hon. John M. Clayton, of Maryland. He 
pursued the usual course of studies in the 
public schools, and afterwards was for some 
time a pupil at the Airyville Academy in 
Central Pennsylvania. By an extended course 
of reading and study under his father he pre- 
pared himself for the course of lectures at the 
medical college. He entered the Hahnemann 
College of Medicine at Philadelphia, and was 
graduated from that institution in 1879. He 
began the practice of medicine in Washing- 
ton, D. C, as the assistant to Dr. T. D. Verdie. 
Here were many advantages for beginning 
his professional work in connection with 
an eminent and successful physician who had 
a large city practice. Dr. Swartz fully appre- 
ciated the opportunities thus offered him for 
perfecting his knowledge of medicine, and 
gaining an acquaintance with the chemical 
and ethical demands of his profession by 
actual experience and his close observation 
of a successful physician. But these oppor- 
tunities in their fullest privilege were speedily 
reaped by Dr. Swartz. The desire for a foot- 
ing of his own and a practice in which he 
would be sole and supreme was formed and 
strengthened and was finally gratified by his 
removal to Harrisburg in 1880. Here he has 
found an inviting field for the exercise of his 
professional skill and is in the enjoyment of 
a large and agreeable practice. Under the 
administration of President Cleveland he was 
appointed and commissioned a member of the 
county board of Pension Examiners, and in 
the organization of the board he was elected 
the secretary and held the position for three 
years. His appointment to this responsible 
office was due not only to the fact that he is 
identified with the political party in power 
at the time of his appointment, but was more 
owing to the recognition of his personal and 
professional fitness for the place. Dr. Swartz 
recognizes the benefit of close association with 
the members of his profession and the ad- 
herents of his school of medicine, and has 
enrolled himself in the membership of the 
county, State and National Medical Associa- 
tions, and takes an interest in all the pro- 
ceedings of these societies. He is also a par- 
ticipant in social activities outside of his pro- 
fession, being a member of the Harrisburg 
Club and of the Masonic fraternity. Dr. 
Swartz was married, in 1883, toMissMargarie 
Zinn, daughter of George and Annie Zinn, 
of Harrisburg. To this marriage there is no 
issue. 



384 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Walter, Harry B., M. D., was born 
about four miles southeast of Greencastle, 
Franklin county, July 5, 1854, and is a sou 
of William and Susan (Bushey) Walter. 

The paternal ancestors were of Welsh and 
the maternal of German origin. William, 
the father of Harry B., was a son of Bernard 
and Catherine Walter, both natives of 
Franklin county. He was married to Miss 
Susan, daughter of Henry and Margaret 
Bushey, by whom he had these children : 
Catherine Virginia, died in December, 1893, 
aged forty-two years, Edgar C, residing near 
Greencastle, where he is engaged in agricul- 
tural pursuits, Harry J., Ida B., who resides 
with her father, and William A., a drug 
manufacturer residing in Baltimore. Mrs. 
Walter is deceased and her husband sur- 
vives at an advanced age. In his earlier 
years he was a prominent farmer and an ac- 
tive worker in the ranks of the Republican 
party, an ardent and enthusiastic admirer of 
the Camerons. 

Harry B. spent his boyhood days on the 
farm, where he was early taught the duties 
pertaining to this mode of livelihood. His 
primary education was acquired in the pub- 
lic schools, supplemented later in life by his 
own efforts on wet days spent in the hay loft 
of his father's barn, with an old arithmetic 
and grammar for companions. In 1874 he 
began teaching school at Pine Field, Antrim 
township, Franklin county, and continued 
there two years. During this period, by 
frugality he saved enough money from his 
salary to enter the Millersville State Normal 
School, and one term during 1876 was spent 
in that institution. This was followed by 
two successive winter terms of teaching in 
Lancaster county. In the spring of 1878 he 
entered Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg, 
where he spent one year. In 1879 he com- 
menced the study of medicine, and in the fall 
of the same year entered Jefferson Medical 
College, of Philadelphia, from which institu- 
tion he graduated in March, 1881. He at 
once took up his residence in Harrisburg 
and began the practice of his profession, 
which he has continued here ever since. 

Dr. Walter is an ardent Republican and 
has always taken an active part in political 
matters and the legislation of municipal 
affairs. For three years he has served as a 
member of the school board, in which posi- 
tion he has given satisfaction to his con- 
stituents. In 1893 he was a candidate for 



the office of mayor but was defeated by M. 
C. Eby. 

He is prominent in fraternal circles, being 
a past master of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 
464, F. & A. M., a member of Perseverance 
Chapter, No. 21, R. A. M., member of Pil- 
grim Commandery, No. 11, K. T, and Har- 
risburg Consistory, 32°. He is also a past 
noble grand of Peace and Plenty Lodge, No. 
69, I. 0. 0. P., and a past noble grand of 
Susannah Lodge, Daughters of Rebecca, a 
member and past councillor of American 
Council, No. 3, 0. U. A. M., and has repre- 
sented this body in the State Council. 

The Doctor is at present the president of 
the Dauphin County Medical Societjr, a 
member of the Pennsylvania State Medical 
Society, a member of the American Medical 
Association, ex-president of Harrisburg 
Pathological Society, a member of the Acad- 
emy of Medicine, of Harrisburg, and a mem- 
ber of the surgical staff of the Harrisburg 
City Hospital. He is also vice-president of 
the Harris Building and Loan Association. 

He was married, in Philadelphia, on the 
eve of December 24, 1884, to Miss Sarah 
Chamberlin, a daughter of William and 
Buelah Chamberlin, of Atlantic City, N. J., 
and to their union have been born three 
sons' : Harry Morris, Alfred Roscoe, and 
Ralph Somers. The parents of Mrs. Walter 
are both deceased, and she is their only sur- 
viving child. He and his family attend the 
Lutheran church, of which body both Dr. 
and Mrs. Walter are consistent members. 



Bowers, Moses K., M. D., of Harrisburg, 
was born at Oakland Mills, Juniata county, 
Pa., December 8, 1856. He is a son of Martin 
H. and Christina (Kieffer) Bowers. Martin 
H. Bowers was born at or near Martinsburgh, 
Blair county, Pa., April 4, 1820. His life 
was spent partly in Blair and partly in Ju- 
niata county, but he passed his declining 
years in Mecbanicsburg, Cumberland county. 
His occupation was farming. He was a 
prominent citizen and a conscientious Chris- 
tian, a member of the German Baptist 
church. He died June 15, 1893, aged sev- 
enty-three. His memory will long be cher- 
ished by those who knew him best. He was 
married near Millersburg, Pa., to Christina 
Kieffer, of Millersburg, Dauphin county. 
They had four children : Joseph, deceased; 
Susan, wife of Jacob Pyle, of Abilene, Kan.; 
Mary, of Mechanicsburg, Pa., and Moses K. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



385 



Moses K. Bowers was a resident of Oakland 
Mills until he was fifteen. He enjoyed such 
educational advantages as were afforded by 
the public schools of his native town, and 
also attended the Normal School of Patterson, 
Juniata county. About 1S70 he removed to 
Cumberland county with his parents and 
located near New Kingston, where he worked 
upon his father's farm until 1877. At this 
date he went to Mechanicsburg and began 
the study of medicine with Dr. George Ful- 
mer. In the fall of 1878 he entered Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, and attended 
a course of lectures for one year. Going 
back to Mechanicsburg he continued his 
medical studies there for two years. He re- 
turned to Jefferson College in 1881 aud re- 
ceived his diploma from that institution in 
March. 1882. He immediately began the 
practice of medicine at Boiling Springs, Cum- 
berland county, Pa., and continued there for 
three years. In 1884 he removed to Harris- 
burg and has since that time practiced with 
success in that city. 

He was married in Mechanicsburg, Pa., 
November 27,1879, to Miss Emma M.,daugh- 
ter of George and Susan (Long) Fulmer, a 
native of Mechanicsburg, of German-Amer- 
ican ancestry. They have had five children, 
two of whom died in infancy. The surviv- 
ing children are: Robert Ellerslie, born Au- 
gust 24, 1880; George Fulmer, born Decem- 
ber 25, 1881, and Susan C, born March 15, 
1884. Dr. Bowers is a Democrat. He has 
filled the office of school director and been a 
member of the board of control for the city 
of Harrisburg. He has been an active mem- 
ber of the Cumberland County Hedical So- 
ciety. He belongs to Pilgrim Encampment, 
No. 13, Knights of St. John and Malta, and 
of Harrisburg Union, No. 683, E. A. U. of 
America. Dr. Bowers and his family attend 
the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Graber, Leon K.. M. D., was born in 
Northumberland county, Pa., November 17, 
1857, son of William K. and Pauline 
(Martz) Graber, both natives of that county. 
His father was a professor of music in Mora- 
via Seminary, Northumberland county, Pa. 
Leon K. received his academic education at 
Bethlehem Academy, and read medicine 
under Dr. D. D. Richardson, of Philadelphia, 
after which he took the regular course of 
study and lectures at the University of Penn- 
sylvania, and was graduated from the medi- 
cal department of that institution in 1882. 



After serving as resident physician of the 
hospital for one year and a half, he spent 
the same length of time in the dispensary 
department of the Belleview Hospital at New 
York. He then went into a general practice 
at Bethlehem, Pa., in which he was very suc- 
cessful, continuing until 1888, when he came 
to Harrisburg, where he has since enjoyed 
a large practice. The Doctor is a member of 
both county and State medical societies. In 
politics he is a Democrat. He was married, 
in 1891, to Miss Frances C. Jauss, daughter 
of D. L. Jauss, of Harrisburg, to whom has 
been born one child, Mary. Dr. Graber is a 
member of the Catholic church and his wife 
of the Lutheran church. 



Seitz, J. Landis, M. D., was born in Safe 
Harbor, Lancaster county, Pa., August 11, 
1856. He is a son of Noah H. and Elizabeth 
(daughter of John Landis) Seitz, natives of 
that county. His father was a practical 
iron man ; he learned the business when 
young, and was associated with C. L. Bailey 
& Co. in the iron business for many years, 
and came here with those men. He was 
also largely interested in farming, and died 
October 14, 1889. He was a Republican in 
politics, but held no office. He was a mem- 
ber of no church. His wife survives him. 
They reared three children, namely : J. 
Landis, David H, machinist, of Philadelphia, 
and Daniel S., attorney, of this city. J. 
Landis was reared in Cumberland county, 
and was educated at Millersburg Normal 
School, special course. He taught school in 
Lancaster and Cumberland counties, and in 
the city schools. In 1877 he began the 
study of medicine, and^ in 1882 was asso- 
ciated with Dr. George R. Hursh. He at- 
tended the Jefferson Medical College, and 
graduated in 1882, and has since, been 
practicing in this city. He conducts a gen- 
eral practice, and is a specialist in the treat- 
ment of catarrhal diseases of the throat, ear 
and chest. He is a member of the County 
Medical Society, and was vice-president of it. 
He is a member of the State Medical Associa- 
tion, and was a delegate to that body. He 
is a member of the Harrisburg Academy of 
Medicine. He was elected count} 7 physician 
in 1893, and was formerly resident physician 
of the City Hospital. He is a Republican in 
politics. He is a member, and one of the 
organizers, and present president of the Penn- 
sylvania Building and Loan Association. 
He was married, in 1885, to Miss Nettie L. 



386 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Barnitz, daughter of George C. Barnitz, of 
Harrisburg. They have one child, George 
Howard. He is a member of the Messiah 
Lutheran church, and was formerly a Sab- 
bath-school teacher. 



Rambler, Robert A., M. D., was born in 
East Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., April 15, 1858. He is a son of the late 
Henry B. and Mary A. (Wallower) Rambler. 
Leonard Rambler, Dr. Rambler's grand- 
father, was a native of Dauphin county, and 
a farmer. He married Miss Priscilla Bacas- 
toe, of Dauphin county. They had these 
children, three of whom are living: Mary, 
wife of Moses Early ; Elias ; Priscilla, wife of 
Benjamin Gingerede. Their deceased chil- 
dren were: John, Leonard, Michael B., and 
their sister Jane, first wife of Benjamin Gin- 
grich. The grandfather died August 17, 
1870, aged seventy-six; the grandmother 
died March 4, 1885, aged eighty, just fifteen 
years later than her husband. 

Henry B. Rambler was born in Dauphin 
county, and was for many years a farmer. 
His wife, Mary A. Wallower, daughter of 
John and Catherine Wallower, was born 
October 7, 1835, and was married in the 
year 1855 to Mr. Rambler. They had two 
sons, Dr. Robert A., of Harrisbm-g, Pa., and 
Galen M., of Middletown, Pa, Late in life 
Mr. Rambler engaged in the hotel business 
at Palmyra, Pa. ; he died one year after, aged 
fifty-two. His wife still lives, and resides 
with her son, Dr. Rambler. He was a 
member of the Lutheran church, at Shells- 
ville, Dauphin county ; in his political views 
was a Democrat. 

Robert A. Rambler attended the public 
schools of his native county. At the age of 
eighteen he went to Philadelphia, in 1880 
he entered Jefferson Medical College, from 
which he received his degree of M. D. three 
years later. He at once opened an office in 
Harrisburg, on the same street where he now 
resides, and where he has ever since been 
engaged in the duties of his profession. By 
his genial and affable manner, his superior 
skill and devotion to his patients, he has 
built up a large practice. His professional 
services are much sought after. On May 4, 
1889, he was appointed medical examiner 
for the Baltimore Mutual Aid Society ; in 
1895 he received a similar appointment from 
the Bay State Beneficiary Society, Boston, 
Mass. In the same year he was appointed 



medical examiner for the Mutual Life Insur- 
ance Company of Philadelphia. 

Dr. Rambler was married, in December, 
1882, to Miss Lizzie, daughter of Herman 
and Mary (Reiger) Turby. They have no 
children. He is a member of K. of P., No. 
59. The Doctor and Mrs. Rambler are 
members of Messiah Lutheran church, Har- 
risburg. His politics are Democratic. 

The grandparents of Mrs. Rambler were 
farmers of Dauphin county. Six of their 
family of seven children are living: William ; 
Mary, Mrs. Herman Turby; Rebecca, wife of 
Aaron Shertzer; Eliza, wife of Jacob Rank; 
Philip, and Louisa, wife of John Miller, of 
Kansas. Samuel died, 1894, aged sixty-five 
years. Both grandparents were members of 
the Reformed church, at Palmyra. The 
grandfather was a Republican. He died, 
December 22, 1879, aged seventy-eight, and 
his widow died September 27, 1887, aged 
eighty-four years. 

Herman Turby, Mrs. Rambler's father, was 
a native of German}'. He came* to this 
country, May 29, 1868, at the age of twenty- 
eight years, and after working for some years 
among the farmers became a foreman in the 
lime business. His wife, Miss Mary Reiger, 
was the daughter of William and Elizabeth 
Reiger. They had seven children, four of 
whom are living: Lizzie A., Mrs. Dr. Ram- 
bler; Emma, wife of Abraham Demuth ; 
William, and Charles. Their deceased chil- 
dren are Harry and Edy. The mother of 
Mrs. Rambler was born in Dauphin county, 
and now resides in Lebanon county. 



Coover, Dr. H. Ross, was born in New 
Cumberland, Cumberland countv, Pa., No- 
vember 30, 1860, son of Dr. E. H. and 
Anne (Hummel) Coover. He was reared in 
Harrisburg and received his education at 
Seiler's Academy and the Pennsylvania 
State College of Centre county, Pa. He read 
medicine with his father and took a two 
years course in the Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege at Philadelphia. In September, 1881, 
he became a member of the firm of C. K. 
Essington, Jr., & Co., and engaged in the 
manufacture of axes and edge tools at Miles- 
burg, Centre county, Pa., at which he con- 
tinued about two years, when he abandoned 
the enterprise and resumed his studies at 
Jefferson Medical College, and after a two 
years additional course was graduated from 
that institution in 1885. He at once began 
the practice of medicine at Harrisburg, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



387 



where he has been professionally engaged 
since that time. He is a member ot the 
Dauphin County Medical Society, and has 
served as the vice-president of the same. 
He is a member and past commander of the 
Knights of Malta. In his politics Dr. Coover 
is a Republican, and is active in party in- 
terests. He served as physician to the city 
poor from 1890 to 1893. Dr. Coover was 
married in 1881 to Miss Sarah R. Weeklej', 
daughter of Thompson Weekley, of Carlisle, 
to whom has been born two children, E. 
H, Jr., and Sarah. Mrs. Coover is a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian church; the Doctor 
was reared in the Lutheran church. 



McAlister, John B., M. D., was born in 
Carroll county, Md., January 31, 3864. He 
is a son of James and Jane (Barr) McAlister, 
natives of Carroll and Adams counties re- 
spectively. The father was a farmer and 
business man ; he died in Carroll county, 
Md. He was an active member of the Piney 
Creek Presbyterian church, and an elder in 
the same. The mother is a resident of Get- 
tysburg, Pa. 

John B. McAlister is the only child of his 
parents. He removed to Gettysburg, Pa., in 
1868 and received his education in Pennsyl- 
vania College, Gettysburg, from which lie 
was graduated in 1884. He took up the 
study of medicine with Dr. J. Bion Scott, of 
Gettysburg. He attended the University of 
Pennsylvania,' in Philadelphia, and gradu- 
ated in 1887. Dr. McAlister came directly 
to Harrisburg and from May, 1887, to May, 
1888, served as resident physician in the City 
Hospital, after which he engaged in general 
practice. He has since been visiting phy- 
sician of the medical department of the hos- 
pital. He is a member of the Dauphin 
County Medical Society, and has been its 
vice-president. He is a member of the State 
Medical Society and was delegate to the same 
in 1893; he was elected to represent the 
Dauphin County Medical Society in the 
National Medical Association in 1893. 

Dr. McAlister is a member of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M.; Chapter No. 21 ; 
Pilgrim Commandery ; and of Harrisburg 
Consistory, 32°. He belongs also to the 
Knights of Malta, and the Junior Order of 
American Mechanics. He is a member of 
the Republican party. In 1889 and 1890 
he was city physician. He is a stockholder 
in the Harrisburg Trust Company and in 
Harrisburg Electric Light Company. Dr. 



McAlister is not married. He is a member 
of Market Square Presbyterian church and 
of the Young Men's Christian Association. 

Jones, William H., M. D., physician and 
surgeon, was born in Snow Hill, Worcester 
county, Md., August 10, 1S60. He is a son 
of William H. and Esther A. (Smith) Jones, 
both of Worcester county, where the father 
still resides and is engaged in contracting. 
The mother died September, 1892. They 
had five children: Mary Virginia, wife of 
Henry Bailey, died in 1890; Georgiana.wife 
of Charles H.Wilson, William H, Milcah 
S., wife of John H. Bailey, John David. Of 
a subsequent marriage of the father there 
has been born one son, an infant. 

William H. Jones passed his boyhood in 
his native township. He received his pri- 
mary education in the public schools and was 
prepared for college under a private tutor. 
He took the regular collegiate course at 
Howard University, AVashington, D. C. He 
afterwards took a three years course in the 
medical department of that institution, from 
which he was graduated in 1887. He then 
took a post-graduate course at the New York 
Polyclinic Institute. He began the practice 
of medicine in Knoxville, Tenn., but soon 
returned to the North, and since September, 
18S7, has been a continuous resident of Har- 
risburg, engaged in the practice of his pro- 
fession. 

The Doctor is unmarried. He is a mem- 
ber of Brotherly Love Lodge, No. 896, Grand 
United Order of Odd Fellows, of Harrisburg. 
He belongs to the American Medical So- 
ciety, the Pennsylvania State Medical So- 
ciety, the Dauphin County Medical Society 
and the Harrisburg Academy of Medicine. 
He is president of the Baker Building ami 
Loan Association. The Doctor is a Repub- 
lican. He attends the Protestant Episcopal 
church. 



De Venney, J. C, M. D., a prominent 
physician of Harrisburg, was born near Car- 
lisle, Cumberland county, February 5, 1857. 
His parents, William and Harriet (Wolfe) 
De Venney, are both natives of Cumberland 
county, and are now residing in Monroe 
township. The Doctor, when quite young, 
removed with his parents to Monroe town- 
ship where he spent his boyhood, receiving 
his primary education in the public schools 
of that township. In 1874-75 he entered 
the State Normal School at Shippensburg. 



388 



BIO GRA PHIUA L ENCYCLOPEDIA 



He was graduated from that institution in 
1882. During the next two years he taught 
school, and read medicine in his spare time. 
In 1885 and part of 1886 he was a student 
of medicine in the office of Dr. Kieffer, of 
Carlisle. In the latter part of 1886 he en- 
tered Jefferson Medical College in Philadel- 
phia, and took his diploma from that insti- 
tution with the class of 1888. He at once 
began the practice of medicine at Mt. Holly 
Springs, Cumberland county, and continued 
there until June 1, 1893. At this date he 
removed to Harrisburg, where he has been 
engaged in his profession for over two years. 
Dr. De Venney is a member of the Dauphin 
County Medical Society. He is rapidly 
building up a large and lucrative practice. • 
In both professional and social circles he 
stands high in the estimation of the com- 
munity, being esteemed as a gentleman of 
the highest ability, culture and probity. 

Dr. De Venney was married, at Mechanics- 
burg, Pa., September 23, 1883, to Lydia A. 
Baker, daughter of George W. and Mary 
Baker. They have no children living. In 
political views the Doctor is a Democrat. 
His wife is a member of the United Brethren 
church. 



of the Dauphin County Medical Society and 
of the State Medical Society. His fraternal 
membership is with the Nazareth Com- 
mandery, K. of M. In political views he is a 
Republican. He is not married, and is a 
member of the M. E. church, and was a di- 
rector of the Y. M. C. A. in 1892 and 1893. 



Stevens, John C, M. D., was born in 
White Haven, Schuylkill county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 17, 1864, son of Rev. B. F. and Han- 
nah G. (Rhoads) Stevens. The father is a 
native of Franklin county, Pa. The mother 
was a daughter of Rev. John Rhoads, a de- 
voted minister of the M. E. church, and a 
native of Virginia. The father had charges 
at White Haven, Ashland, Jersey Shore, 
Northumberland, Williamsport, Clearfield, 
Danville, Miffiinburg, Stevenstown,Mechan- 
icsburg, Duncannon and Harrisburg, and is 
now retired from the active work of the min- 
istry. John C. was reared in the different 
places of his father's pastorates, and was 
educated at the Dickinson Seminary at Will- 
iamsport, from which he was graduated in 
1885. He read medicine under Dr. T. L. 
Johnson, of Duncannon, and attended the 
University of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, 
from which he graduated in 1888, after which 
he was appointed assistant surgeon at the 
State Lunatic Asylum, and remained there 
from May, 1888, to March, 1891, when he 
went to the Philadelphia Polyclinical Hos- 
pital, and took a full course. In 1892 lie 
located in Harrisburg, and entered upon a 
general practice. Dr. Stevens is a member 



Manning, Charles J., M. D., was born in 
Little Washington, Lancaster county, Pa., 
January 9, 1860, son of Jacob and Elizabeth 
(Kendig) Manning, both natives of Lancas- 
ter county. The father is still living and 
resides at Newport, Peny county, and the 
mother died at that place August 22, 1866. 
Charles J. when a youth removed with his 
parents to Newport, where he received his 
education in the public schools, after which 
he taught public school in Perry county five 
years, reading medicine also during this 
time. In 1884 he devoted himself solely to 
preparation for the medical profession, hav- 
ing for his preceptor Dr. J. D. Shaw, of Mar- 
klesville, Perry county, Pa. He attended 
the College of Physicians and Surgeons at 
Baltimore one year, and in 1887 entered the 
Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, 
from which he was graduated in the class of 
1889. He returned to Marklesville and was 
engaged in the practice of medicine there 
until 1893, after which he removed to Har- 
risburg. 



Blair, William, M. D., was born in Car- 
lisle, Cumberland county, Pa., November 
13, 1869, son of Andrew and Mary (Stewart) 
Blair, the former a native of Perry county, 
the latter of Sewickley, Pa., both living and 
residing in Chambersburg, Pa. William re- 
ceived his literary education in the public 
schools of Chambersburg, and in the high 
school of that city. He then took a practi- 
cal course in the Ann Arbor high school, 
one year in the academic department of the 
University of Michigan, and three years in 
the medical department of the same univer- 
sity, graduating therefrom in the class of 

1893. During his last year at college, and 
a year following his graduation, he was a 
teacher in the medical department of the 
university. In June, 1893, he began the 
practice of medicine at Ann Arbor, which 
he pursued for one year and then removed 
to Harrisburg, where he has been engaged 
in the practice of his profession since June, 

1894. Dr. Blair was married at Ann Arbor, 
June 30, 1892, to Viola M.Williams, a grad- 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



389 



uate of the literary department of the Uni- 
versity of Michigan, daughter pf Jeremiah 
D. and Jane L. AVilliams, the former a very 
prominent citizen and one of the oldest liv- 
ing settlers of Washtenaw county, Mich., and 
an ex-member of the State Legislature. To 
Doctor and Mrs. Blair has been born one 
daughter, Viola Helen, born September 19, 
1894. Dr. Blair is a member of the Dauphin 
County Medical Society. In political views 
he is a Republican. He and his wife attend 
the Presbyterian church. 



Cocklin, Dr. C. C, oculist, was born in 
York county, Pa., June 29, 1862. He is a 
son of E. H. and Sarah Elizabeth (Caley) 
Cocklin. Jacob Cocklin, grandfather of Dr. 
C. C. Cocklin, was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., January 30, 1797, and was for 
many years a nurseryman. He was married 
January 29, 1828, to Miss Catharine Hoover, 
born in Lancaster county, Pa. They had 
six children, two of whom are living, Sarah, 
wife of Joseph Miller, of Frederick, Md., and 
E. H., father of Dr. C. C. Their deceased 
children were: Elizabeth, died November 
14, 1835; Michael, March 12, 1851; Benja- 
min, died April 16, 1859, and Jacob, died 
January 24, 1871. Jacob Cocklin died De- 
cember 18, 1890, aged ninety -three years; 
his wife died at the age of seventy-one years. 
The grandparents of Dr. Cocklin on his 
mother's side were natives of England ; their 
occupation was farming. They came to 
this country about the year 1840. They had 
nine children, five of whom are living : 
Docey, wife of James Herd, residing in Union 
county, Ohio ; George, Robert, Elizabeth 
Sarah, wife of E. H. Cocklin, and Clark. 
Their deceased children are: Ellen, wife of 
John David, also deceased, and Peter, Anne 
and John. 

E. H. Cocklin, father of Dr. C. C. Cocklin, 
was born in York county March 8, 3835. 
He was a nurseryman, having learned the 
business in boyhood from his father; be 
still carries it on in York county, where the 
family reside. Miss Sarah Elizabeth Caley, 
to whom he was married August 9, 1859, 
was a native of Knox county, Ohio, and a 
daughter of Chambers and Docey (Dunn) 
Caley. Thev have seven children, all living: 
Ida M., Dr. C. O, R. T., B. F., justice of the 
peace at Monaghan, York county, Pa., Alice 
D., John A., Arthur B. Mr. E. H. Cocklin 
is a Republican. The family are members 
of the Reformed church. 



Dr. C. C. Cocklin received a part of his 
education in the public schools. He was 
brought up in his native place. At the age 
of twenty he engaged in the jewelry busi- 
ness at Philipsburg, N. J., where he re- 
mained four years. In 1888 he entered the 
optical school, and pursued his studies in the 
science of optics for four months. He then 
opened an office at Harrisburg in connec- 
tion with the firm then known as Cocklin 
Bros., oculists. Desirous of making more 
thorough preparation for his specialty he 
went to Philadelphia in 1891, and after a 
three years course of study was graduated 
from the University of Pennsylvania, and 
afterwards took a special course of three 
months in the Philadelphia Polyclinic, at 
the Wills Eye and Ear Hospital. " In 1894 
he returned to Harrisburg and opened an 
office at No. 28 North Third street. He is 
known as one of the most eminent, skillful 
and successful opticians in this region. Dr. 
Cocklin is an active member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. &. A. M. He is 
a Republican. He belongs to the Reformed 
church. 



Hassler, Samuel F., M. D., was born in 
Harrisburg, September 28, 1868. He is a 
son of Edward 0. and Mary (Felty) Hassler. 
When a child he removed with his parents 
to Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
where he received his primary education in 
the public schools. To fit himself for teach- 
ing he took a course in Lebanon Valley Col- 
lege and the State Normal School at Blooms- 
burg, Pa. He taught school for five years 
in Dauphin county, and during the latter 
years of this period he read medicine witli 
Dr. Eli Coover, of Harrisburg. In 1891 he 
entered the Jefferson Medical College of 
Philadelphia, and was graduated therefrom 
in 1S94. He spent fourteen months in the 
Harrisburg City Hospital as resident physi- 
cian. In July, 1895, he began the practice 
of his profession in Harrisburg. In May, 
1896, was elected member of the staff at 
Harrisburg Hospital, medical department. 
He is a member of the Junior Order of 
American Mechanics. In political views he 
is Republican. He is well equipped in 
native talent and attainment for his work, 
is popular, and his prospects for a brilliant 
career are very flattering. His parents were 
both natives of Dauphin county. His mother 
died in 1873. His father still lives and re- 
sides in Susquehanna township engaged in 



390 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



dairy farming. His parents had born to 
them three sons: Samuel F., J. Elmer, and 
Edwin, who died in infancy. By a subse- 
quent marriage of his father to Rebecca 
Stober there has been born a family of seven 
children : Gertrude M., Collin, Lottie, Emery, 
Blaine, Elizabeth, and Stanley. 

Wilson, Henry, M. D., resident physician 
of Harrisburg Hospital, was born in Warrens- 
ville, Lycoming county, Pa., December 23, 
1869, son of Andrew F. and Ann (Casner) 
Wilson. He received his primary education 
in the public schools of Elder township, and 
was graduated from the Lycoming County 
Normal School at Muncy,in the class of 1888, 
after which he studied one year at the State 
Normal School at Millersville. For the next 
four years he taught in the public schools of 
Lycoming county, and then took a course in 
the Business College at Williamsport, and 
for one year served as accountant and clerk 
in a' general store at Ambler, Pa. October 
1, 1892, he entered the medical department 
of the University of Pennsylvania, at Phila- 
delphia, from which he was graduated in 
June, 1895. During his first vacation he was 
a teacher in the Spencerian Business College 
of Philadelphia. On June 10, 1895, he was 
appointed resident physician of the hospital 
and took charge on June 24. In his political 
views Dr. Wilson is a Republican. He is a 
member of Lodge No. 1045, I. 0. 0. F., at 
Ambler, and was a member of the Good 
Templars at Muncy up to the date of their 
disbanding. He is a member of the Baptist 
church at Ambler. 



Zellers, Isaac W., D. V. S., was born in 
Swatara township, Lebanon county, Pa., 
August 23, 1839. He is a son of Adam and 
Hatty (Woods) Zellers, both natives of Leb- 
anon county, and who both died when Isaac 
was but a youth. His boyhood days were 
spent in his native township, the advantages 
of but a limited education being afforded 
him in the schools of Lebanon and adjoining 
counties. Whatever of success has attended 
him through life must be accredited to his 
personal exertions. When about eighteen 
years of age he learned the trade of cigar 
maker. While learning his trade he at the 
same time read medicine with Dr. Cooper of 
Jonestown, Swatara township, Lebanon 
county. In 1860 he abandoned the study of 
medicine for the human S3'stem, and also 
cigar making, and engaged in the study and 



practice of veterinary science. Since 1879 
he has been exclusively and continuously 
engaged in the practice of his profession in 
Harrisburg. By his ability and skill, and 
his faithful devotion to the duties of his 
calling, he has placed himself at the head of 
his profession. During the late Rebellion . 
he served three years as veterinary surgeon 
in Maryland, but was never enlisted in the 
United States army. 

He was married in Lebanon City, October 
9, 1878, to Elizabeth Berkheiser, daughter of 
Jacob and Nancy Berkheiser, of Lebanon, 
and widow of the late L. C. Fernsler, of Leb- 
anon. One daughter has been born to them, 
Susan. By Mrs. Zellers' first marriage there 
were born two children : George and Sallie, 
who still survive. Dr. Zellers is a past noble 
grand of Peace and Plenty Lodge, No. 69, I. 
O. 0. F. He is past chief patriarch of Har- 
risburg Encampment, No. 301. 

Oyler, J. H, doctor of veterinary science, 
was born near Chambersburg, Franklin 
county, Pa., December 16, 1852. He is a 
son of Elias and Susanna (Harmony) Oyler. 
He received his primary education in the 
public schools of Chambersburg. He was 
engaged as a traveling salesman for the 
East Liverpool Granite Company, East 
Liverpool, Ohio. In 1885 he attended the 
Ontario Veterinary College of Toronto, Can- 
ada, and was graduated from that institution 
in the class of 1887. Since that date he has 
been continuously engaged in the practice 
of his profession in Harrisburg. where by 
the skillful treatment of all cases entrusted 
to his care he has built up a large and 
rapidly increasing practice. His personal 
integrity and his professional ability are 
universally recognized. He was married at 
Chambersburg, September 29, 1887, to Miss 
Mary Jane Forbes, daughter of George and 
Mary Ann Forbes, of Chambersburg. They 
have no children. In political views the 
Doctor is a staunch Republican. He and 
his wife attend the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Haas, James A., veterinary surgeon, was 
born in Lowhill township, Lehigh county, 
Pa., October 5, 1869; son of Solomon and 
Sarah (Moore) Haas. His parents were 
both born in Lehigh county. The mother 
died September 10, 1884, the father is still 
living and resides near Allentown, Pa., where 
he superintends the management of his farm 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



391 



in connection with his practice as a veterin- 
ary surgeon. They had a family of six boys 
and six girls, all of whom are living: Chester, 
Orville, Sarah, Amanda, George, M. D., of 
Allentown, Mary, wife of George Worley, 
Dr. James A., Rosa, wife of Owen Weiss, 
Ida, wife of Chester Wallert, Ewin, Wilson, 
Elsie. James A. spent his early life on the 
home farm and received his primary educa- 
tion in the district schools of his native town- 
ship, and in the public schools of Allentown, 
Pa. In preparation for his profession he 
began the stud}'' of veterinary science with 
his father, and in 1889 entered the American 
Veterinary College of New York City, from 
which he was graduated with honors in 1891. 
He at once began the practice of his profes- 
sion near Allentown, in which he was very 
successful, and which he continued until 
November 27, 1895, when he removed to Har- 
risburg, where his professional ability and 
skill have been readily recognized and his 
practice is extensive and profitable. Dr. 
Haas was married, in Foglesville, Lehigh 
county, Pa., April 16, 1892, to Miss Emma 
Hollenbach, daughter of Moses and Ellen 
(Seirer) Hollenbach. Their children are: 
Paul S., Frederick M., and Howard P. Dr. 
Haas is a member of Macungie Lodge, No. 
231, I. 0. 0. F., of Lehigh county, and of the 
Trexlertown Mutual Aid Association of the 
same county. In his political views he is a 
Democrat, and is an attendant of the Re- 
formed church. 



Newhard, Irvix C, doctor of veterinary 
science, was born at Allentown, Lehigh 
county, Pa., March 14, 1872. He is a son of 
James D. and Eliza (Bachman) Newhard, both 
natives of Allentown, where they still reside. 
His father, James D., was a carriage maker 
by trade, but is at present in the livery busi- 
ness. In his father's family there were four 
children, of whom three survive: Irvin G, 
Annie and Lillian. His grandparents were 
also natives of Lehigh county, and were of 
German ancestry. 

Irvin C. Newhard grew to manhood in 
his native town, where he received his edu- 
cation in the public schools, in Muhlenberg 
College and in a business college of Allen- 
town. He then took a thorough course of 
studies in preparation for his profession in 
the New York Veterinary College, from 
which institution he was graduated in 1893. 
He entered at once upon the practice of his 
profession in Harrisburg. His knowledge 



and skill in his profession and his faithful 
devotion to his practice are clearly demon- 
strated, and his success is securing him a 
rapidly growing business. His many good 
qualities are recognized, and he is popular 
in social circles. He is a loyal and active 
member of the Alumni Association of the 
New York Veterinary College. In his po- 
litical views he is a Republican. He attends 
Salem Reformed church. 



Stine, George W., dentist, was born in 
Harrisburg, Dauphin county, Pa., October 
30, 1829, son of Frederick A. and Susan 
(Montgomery) Stine. George Stine, the 
grandfather, was a native of Lebanon 
county and his wife was also born in the 
same county. Frederick A. Stine, the 
father, was born in Dauphin county in 
1807. He married Susan Montgomery, 
born in 1805, also a native of Dauphin 
county. He was a shoemaker, and was 
also engaged in boating on the canal. The 
parents had nine children, three of whom 
are living: Anna Caroline, Mrs. Mont- 
gomery ; George W. and Frederick Adol- 
phus. Their deceased children are: Oscar, 
William, Joseph, James and David. The 
father died September 20, 1842, in Harris- 
burg, and was the first member of the Odd 
Fellows buried in Harrisburg. In his po- 
litical views Mr. Stine was a Democrat, and 
in his religious faith and worship he was a 
Methodist, in which denomination he 
served as a class leader for many years, and 
was the superintendent of the Sunday- 
school up to the time of his death. His 
wife was a member of the same church, and 
her death occurred in 1852, at the age of 
forty-two j'ears. 

George W. attended the schools of Harris- 
burg until he was thirteen years old, at 
which time his father died, and he lived 
with his uncle, John Stine, at Lebanon, Pa.. 
for two years, after which he returned to 
Harrisburg and attended the high school 
for six months. He then was employed for 
a year in a general supply store with his 
cousin, at Havre de Grace, at the end of 
which time he returned to Harrisburg and 
learned the trade of carpentry, which he 
followed about seven years. At the age of 
twenty-eight years he entered the Dental 
College at Baltimore, from which he was 
graduated in 1861. He began the practice 
of dentistry in Harrisburg, in which he has 
continued up to the present time. Dr. Stine 



392 



Bl GRA PHI GAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



was married first in December, 1850, to Miss 
Anna Stauffer, daughter of John Stauffer, 
to whom have been born two daughters, 
Ellen, wife of Gilbert Waigle, and Matilda, 
deceased. Mrs. Stine died in November, 
1854. Dr. Stine was married, secondly, 
July 11,1861, to Miss Annie Neff, daughter 
of Dr. John C. and Margaret (Stahl) Neff, 
to whom were born three children, one of 
whom is living: Henry M., who is also a 
dentist; George W., died April 30, 1875, 
aged eleven years ; and Margaret, died in 
1871, aged two years. Dr. Stine is a mem- 
ber of Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. 0. F., 
with which he united in 1855, and of Dau- 
phin Encampment, No. 11, and is also a 
member of the United Workmen. In 
his political views Dr. Stine is a Republican. 
He and his wife are members of the Pres- 
byterian church. 



Schlayer, Andrew, Harrisburg,|was born 
at Baden, Germany, February 2-1, 1830. His 
parents were both natives of Germany and 
came early to this country. They had eight 
children, five of whom are living: Barbara, 
wife of Leonard Orth, deceased ; William, 
Caroline, wife of Henry Longenecker, Beverly, 

O.; Margaret, wife of Vasler, and Jacob L. 

Their deceased children are Andrew, Mary, 
Mrs. Meyer, and Bernard. The parents were 
members of the German Lutheran church, 
and both died at Harrisburg, the mother 
passing away May 3, 1876, aged eighty-one 
years. Andrew came to America with his 
parents when he was two years old. He at- 
tended the public schools until he was twelve 
years of age, and then learned the trade of 
baker, which he followed some years. He 
was employed in the planing mill for about 
thirty-five years, and was for a number of 
years in the place of foreman in the mill. In 
March, 1881, he opened a grocery at No. 
1002 North Third street, which he conducted 
until his death, February 29, 1892. In his 
political views Mr. Schlayer was a Democrat. 
He served as member of the common coun- 
cil, and at the time of his death was a mem- 
ber of select council. He was a member of 
the Bethlehem Lutheran church, and was 
formerly a member of the Zion church. He 
was prominent in fraternity circles, being a 
member of Robert Burns Lodge, Persever- 
ance Chapter, and Knights Templars, F.& A. 
M., of Dauphin Lodge and Encampment. I. 
O. O. F., and Knights of Pythias. He was 
also a member of Friendship Fire Company 



No. 1. After his death his business was con- 
ducted by Miss Mary Elizabeth Schlayer. Mrs. 
Schlayer was born September 19, 1836. Her 
father was born in 1800, and was a printer. 
He married Miss Julia Ring, born in 1814, 
by whom he had five children, two of whom 
are living. He died January 9, 1876, aged 
seventy-four years, and his wife died Septem- 
ber 2, 1877, aged sixty-three years. He was 
an old line Whig. His wife was a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal church. The 
grandfather of Mrs. Schlayer was a native of 
Germany, and was a shoemaker by trade. 
He came in his youth to this country, and 
died at Harrisburg. His wife died at Phila- 
delphia, aged ninety-three years. 

Keller, John P. — Among the profes- 
sional men in Harrisburg who have passed 
the period of activity and success in the 
business life, and are cpuietly enjoying the 
fruits of their labors in earlier years, Dr. 
John P. Keller holds a prominent place. He 
was born in Harrisburg, February 20, 1831, 
and is a son of John Peter and Lydia 
(Kunkle) Keller, natives of Harrisburg, born 
February 25, 1808, and November 9, 1811, 
respectively. The father was educated and 
reared to manhood in his native city, and 
here also were spent the brief and busy years 
of his business career. He was a hardware 
merchant, and his place of business was at 
the corner of Second' and Walnut streets, 
where he carefully laid the foundations of 
a large and secure business, and where the 
prospects of an increasing and profitable 
trade appeared most flattering, but were all 
blasted by his earty death, which occurred 
December 13, 1837, in the twenty-ninth year 
of his age. His wife survived him many 
years, not having been called away from life 
until February 10, 1860. There were born 
to these worthy parents four children, of 
whom John P. and Christian Kunkle are 
the only survivors, two having died in child- 
hood. 

John Peter was a bright and diligent 
pupil in the public schools and academy of 
the city, and reached the end of their course 
of studies with a very fair degree of intel- 
lectual training, which abundantly qualified 
him to take up professional preparation. 
He made choice of dentistry as the profes- 
sion most in accord with his tastes and 
talents, and most promising as a field for 
employment. He took up the study with 
Dr. J. C. Stock, where he received the fullest 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



393 



and most accurate instruction and training 
in the science and art he had decided to 
master. Dr. Stock was, at this time, in the 
enjoyment of a large and lucrative practice, 
from which he was called away by early 
death, and to which his promising pupil 
succeeded. Dr. Keller was devoted to his 
chosen occupation, and was eminently suc- 
cessful in professional work. He continued 
in practice until 1875, at which time he re- 
tired to the enjoyment of relief and rest from 
the exacting engagements of professional 
life. The marriage of Dr. Keller to Miss 
Emeline H. Croll, daughter of John and 
Eliza (Lanman) Croll, of Middletown, Pa., 
occurred at that place, June 20,1861. There 
have been born to them six children, of 
whom one died in infancj', and the surviv- 
ing are : John Peter, Croll, Helen Lydia, 
Christian Kunkel and William Lanman. 
Dr. Keller is a director of the Verbeke Street 
market house. In political principles he is 
in agreement with the Republican party. 
The preferences of his family in matters of 
religious doctrine and worship are expressed 
in connection with their membership in the 
Lutheran church. 



Smith, Edwin B., D. D. S., was born at 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, Pa., March 
28, 1855, son of Peterand Elizabeth (Thomp- 
son) Smith. His father was born in Lan- 
caster county, June 2, 1819, and was a 
farmer by occupation. He married Miss 
Elizabeth Thompson, born in Berks county. 
Pa., April 23, 1832, daughter of Dr. Thomp- 
son. They had seven children, of whom 
five are living : John H., Dr. E. B., Amanda, 
Charles, and Preston. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : Fannie, died in February, 1873, 
aged eighteen years, and Louisa, wife of J. F. 
Brightbill. The father filled various town- 
ship offices. He died in August, 1893, aged 
seventy-three years. The mother is still 
living at the age of sixty-four years and re- 
sides in Canton, 0. Edwin B. received his 
early education in the public schools at Lin- 
glestown, which he attended until he was 
fifteen years old, after which he attended the 
St. Thomas Academy, at Linglestown, for 
two terms. He began teaching when he 
was seventeen years of age, and was em- 
ployed in this occupation for seven succes- 
sive terms. During the intervals and vaca- 
tion between terms he attended a private 



school at Allen town, Pa. He was graduated 
from the College of Dental Surgery, at Bal- 
timore, in 1881, and came to Linglestown 
and opened an office for the practice of 
dentistry. During the last seven years the 
Doctor has had an office at Harrisburg, and 
in 1895 removed his residence to this city, 
locating at No. 931 North Third street. The 
family are members of the Reformed church. 
Dr. Smith was married at Linglestown, Feb- 
ruary 12, 1878, to Miss Christina Hicks, 
daughter of Jacob Hicks. They have no 
children. The Doctor is a member of Lin- 
glestown Lodge, No. 629, I. 0. 0. F. In his 
political views he is a Democrat. The father 
of Mrs. Smith is a nativeof Dauphin county, 
and a farmer by occupation. He married 
Miss Christina Marberger, a native of 
Schuylkill county, to whom were born seven 
children. He filled the office of justice of 
the peace in West Hanover township and 
also that of school director. He died in 1875 
aged sixty-three years. His wife died in 
April, 1890, at the same age. They were 
members of the Reformed church. 



Baker, George W., D. D. S., was born in 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, Pa., Februar}' 
27, 1859, son of George W. and Rebecca 
(Hicks) Baker. The parents were both natives 
of Lower Paxton township, where the father 
carried on the business of coach making for 
thirty-five years, and died in 1892. His wife 
survives and resides in Linglestown. They 
had eight children, of whom five are living: 
George W., Minnie C, John M., dentist of 
Lykens, Pa., William, a student of dentistry, 
Ella C, teacher in the public schools. George 
W. received his primary education in the 
public schools of his native township, and 
after completing his course was engaged for 
five terms in teaching school in Dauphin 
county. In 1883 he began the study of den- 
tistry with Dr. E. B. Smith in Linglestown. 
and prosecuted it during 18S3 and 1884 and 
also a part of 1S84 and 1S85. He took the 
course of study and lectures in the College of 
Dental Surgeons at Baltimore,and was gradu- 
ated from that institution in 18S6, after which 
he at once entered upon the practice of den- 
tistry in Harrisburg. Dr. Baker was married 
in Linglestown, October 9, 1881, to Emma E. 
Harper, daughter of George W. and Sallie 
Harper, of Linglestown, to whom has been 
born one child, Harry H. The Doctor is a 



394 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. 
& A. M.; Linglestown Lodge, No. 621, I. 0. 
0. F., and of Phoenix Lodge, K. of P., of 
Harrisburg. He attends the Reformed 
church. 



POFFENBERGER, THOMAS M. L., D. D. S., 

was born in Linglestown, Dauphin count}', 
Pa., September 2, 1864, son of William and 
Henrietta (McConnell) Poffenberger, both 
deceased. The parents were born in Dau- 
phin county, the father in Middle Paxton 
and the mother in Halifax township. They 
spent their entire life in the county, and 
both died in Middle Paxton township. They 
had seven children, of whom five are living: 
Emma, widow of Mr. Sheaffer, who was 
killed by the falling of the Harrisburg 
bridge; Ella, widow of the late Joseph 
Lingle, residing in Linglestown, Pa.; An- 
drew, a prominent farmer in Lancaster 
county; William, residing in Columbus, 
Ohio/and Dr. Thomas M. L. Thomas M. 
L. was reared in his native township and 
attended the public schools and later was 
a pupil at the State Normal School at Mil- 
lersville for two years. He then studied 
dentistry four years with Dr. Christ, of Hum- 
melstown, Pa. In 1876 he studied one term 
in the Pennsylvania Dental College, of Phila- 
delphia, after which he returned to Dauphin 
county, and practiced his profession in Mid- 
dle Paxton township for eleven years, one 
year of which he spent in Syracuse attend- 
ing to the practice of Dr. George Curtiss of 
that city, who was for the time disabled by 
ill health. In 1886 he resumed his studies 
in the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, 
from which he was graduated in the class of 
1887, after which he re-opened his office in 
Dauphin county. He also established a 
branch office at Steelton, Pa., which he sub- 
sequently abandoned and opened a branch 
office in Harrisburg, to which, for the past 
four years, he has devoted his whole time 
and attention. Dr. Poffenberger was mar- 
ried at Dauphin, Dauphin county, to Miss 
Julia Steese, daughter of Alfred F. and 
Mary Steese, of Dauphin county. They 
have one daughter, Mary S., born in 1885. 
The Doctor has efficiently filled the office of 
burgess of Dauphin one year. He is a mem- 
ber of Star of America Commandery, No. 
113, Knights of Malta. In his political 
views he is a Republican. Mrs. Poffenber- 
ger attends the Presbyterian church. 



Storey, J. Wilbert, dentist, was born in 
Butler county, Pa., September 24, 1872. He 
is a son of the late James B. and Ada E. 
(Adams) Storey. James B. Storey was born 
in Petrolia, Butler county, Pa,, March 4, 
1842. He was an active politician ; was 
elected sheriff of Butler county and filled 
various other offices. He enlisted, in 1861, 
in company H, One Hundred and Second 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
served three months. He re-enlisted Decem- 
ber 19, 1862, and was wounded in the head 
at Cold Harbor January 3, 1863 ; at Peters- 
burg he was wounded in the left side and the 
left hand at the same time. He was dis- 
charged December 16, 1864, on account of 
disability. He was afterwards captain of 
company A, Thirteenth regiment, National 
Guards, and was commissioned major of the 
Sixteenth regiment, National Guards, De- 
cember 3, 1878, and promoted to lieutenant 
colonel of the same regiment July 11, 1882. 
Colonel Store}' participated in the battles of 
Williamsburg, siege of Yorktown, Fair Oaks, 
siege of Richmond, battle of White Oak 
Swamp, Malvern Hill, Bull Run, Antietam, 
and many other important engagements. 

When Colonel Storey came to Harrisburg 
he entered the auditor general's office as 
bank clerk, which position he held with 
credit until his death. He was also proprie- 
tor of the Harrisburg Slate Mantle Works. 
He belonged to the order of A. 0. U. W. and 
attended the Westminster Presbyterian 
church. 

Colonel Store}' was married, November 29, 
1866, to Miss Ada V., daughter of W. C. and 
Annie L. (David) Adams. Five children 
were born to them, of whom three are liv- 
ing : Charles A., Ada M., and J. Wilbert. 
Colonel Storey died October 28, 1889, aged 
forty-seven. His wife still survives and re- 
sides with her son, Dr. Storey. 

J. Wilbert Storey attended the public 
schools of Butler county until he was nine 
years old, when his parents removed to Har- 
risburg, Pa. He attended the public schools 
of that city for four years, and then was for 
one year clerk in the drug store of Dr. B. B. 
Hamlin, Jr. In 1890 he began a three years 
course of study in the Pennsylvania Dental 
College of Philadelphia, graduating in 1894. 
Soon after he began the practice of his pro- 
fession in Harrisburg, his present location 
being No. 118 South Thirteenth street. Dr. 
Storey is a member of Lodge No. 301, I.O. 0. 



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DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



39 7 



F. He belongs to the Psi-Onega Dental fra- 
ternity of Philadelphia and is a Republican 
in political views. 

Keller, Christian Kunkle, pharmacist, 
was born in Harrisburg, October 1, 1833, son 
of John Peter and Lydia (Kunkle) Keller. 
He was reared in this city and received his 
education in the public schools. Later he 
entered upon a course of study in the Penn- 
sylvania College at Gettysburg, which he 
was compelled by failing health to relinquish. 
He was employed as clerk in a store, while 
he was still a boy, and was engaged in va- 
rious occupations, finally learning the drug 
business, and since 1846 he has been contin- 
ually engaged in this branch of trade for 
himself, being now one of the oldest business 
men of the city. He is associated with the 
Knights of Honor, and holds membership 
in the Zion Lutheran church, of which or- 
ganization he is also a trustee. 

Winger, Henry C, M. D., pharmacist, 
was born at Hammer's Creek, Lancaster 
county, Pa., March 8, 1837. His parents, 
Moses and Henrietta (Yundt) Winger, were 
both natives of Lancaster county, and were 
of Swiss ancestry. In his early life the 
father was engaged in agricultural pursuits, 
but in later life was in the hotel business, 
mercantile pursuits and distilling. For 
twenty years previous to his death he lived 
a retired life. He died in Philadelphia, 
April 13, 1892, aged eighty-two years, his 
wife having preceded him in death in 1869. 
They had two children : Catherine A. and 
Henry C. 

When Henry C. Winger was seven years 
old he removed with his parents to Lancas- 
ter City, which was his home until he 
reached the age of thirt}' years. His pri- 
mary education was received in the public 
schools of Lancaster, and was completed at 
White Hall Academy, Cumberland county, 
from which institution he was graduated in 
1853. After completing his literary course 
he began the study of medicine with Dr. 
John L. Atlee, Sr., of Lancaster, and re- 
mained under his instruction for five years. 
In 1858 he enlisted as private in the regular 
United States army, and was assigned to 
company B, First regiment. He was sent to 
the frontier of Texas, and was stationed at 
the different forts there, until all the In- 
dians were removed from Texas to Fort 
Cobb in the Indian Territory, his company, 

29 



together with a company of United States 
cavalry, acting as escorts in this removal. 
He, with his company, also assisted in the 
erection of this fort. While working on 
the fort he had his foot so badly injured 
that he was discharged from further duty 
in 1860, on account of disability, with a 
pension of $2 per month. In 1862 he 
enlisted in the United States navy, and 
served in this branch of the service until 
1866, when he was discharged at Gosport 
Navy Yard, Norfolk, Va., and returned to 
Lancaster. In 1868 he removed to Dela- 
ware, and there engaged in the practice of 
medicine for three years. In 1871 he re- 
moved to Harrisburg, where, for the past 
twenty-five years, he has been continuously 
engaged in the practice of his profession ; 
and for the past fourteen years he has, in 
connection with his practice, been engaged 
in the drug business. 

Dr. Henry C. Winger was married in 
Harrisburg, June 16, 1872, to Matilda Har- 
per, a daughter of William and Elizabeth 
(Clark) Harper, of Adams county, Pa. Mrs. 
Harper, when a little girl, lived near Gettys- 
burg, and well remembers the battle fought 
there. During the three days' fighting, she 
carried water to the famished soldiers of the 
Union army, and had many nai'row escapes 
from death by the explosion of shells. 
Her father was taken prisoner by the rebels 
during this battle, and although an old 
man and a cripple, they marched him to 
Salisbury prison, where he died from the 
effects of ill treatment, in the following 
February. The brother of Mrs. Winger 
was also taken prisoner by the rebels, and 
was confined in Salisbury prison for two 
years. 

Nine children have been born to Dr. and 
Mrs. Winger, namely: Harry G, Harriet 
A., Russell C, George H., Ruth, Edgar, 
Naomi, Charles W. and Bessie, who died in 
infancy. In political views the Doctor is a 
Democrat. The family attend the Pine 
Street Presbyterian church. 

Clark, Joseph Nelson, M. D., physician 
and pharmacist was born in Monaghan 
township, near Dillsburg, York county, Pa., 
November 12, 1839. He is a son of James 
and Margaret (Nelson) Clark, the former of 
Cumberland, the latter of York county : both 
deceased. The grandfather Clark was one 
of the original settlers of Cumberland county, 
and the grandfather Nelson one of the orig- 



398 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



inal settlers of York county, having come 
with their parents to these counties when the 
country was a wilderness inhabited by In- 
dians. They received their lands from Will- 
iam Penn. The Clark family were of Scotch, 
and the Nelsons of English ancestry. The 
father of Dr. Clark was a miller by trade, 
and lived in Cumberland county all his life. 
His later years were spent in agricultural 
pursuits. He had a family of fourteen chil- 
dren ; ten lived to maturity, four died in 
infancy. Seven survive, namely : Francis 
Elizabeth, wife of George C. Chamberlin, of 
Manly, Worth county, Iowa ; Marj^ A., 
widow of the late Col. Henry I. Zinn, of 
Mechanicsburg, Pa. ; Joseph Nelson, subject 
of this sketch; Hannah H. (Mrs. Wilson), of 
New Orleans, La.; Elizabeth E., wife of John 
J. Palmer, of Medical Lake, Wash.; Calvin 
M., Woonsocket, S. D. ; and Emma, wife of 
John Moul, of Carlisle, Pa. 

When but one year old, Joseph Nelson 
Clark removed with his parents to Cumber- 
land county, and was educated in the public 
schools of Churchtown and the Normal 
School of Newville, Pa., now the State Nor- 
mal School of Shippensburg, receiving a 
diploma from this institution with the class 
of 1860. He studied in the medical depart- 
ment of the University of Georgetown, at 
Washington, D. C, and was graduated from 
the institution with the class of 1867 ; he took 
a post-graduate course in 1868. He practiced 
medicine for one year at St. Louis, Mo., then 
returned to Mechanicsburg and practiced 
there. During 1870 and 1871 he was presi- 
dent of the Female Collegiate Institute, at 
York, Pa. In 1872 he removed to Harris- 
burg, where he has resided continuously for 
twenty-three years. Until 1887 he devoted 
his attention solely to the practice of his pro- 
fession. For the past eight years he has 
given the greater part of his time to the drug 
business He is proprietor of McNeil's Pain 
Exterminator, a popular remedy of wide 
sale. In 1861 Dr. Clark volunteered for 
service in the army, under the call for three 
months' men, and was assigned to the 
Seventh Pennsylvania Reserves. He en- 
listed for three years but served four years, 
on account of one year's imprisonment, par- 
ticipating in the most important battles of 
the war. He was taken prisoner at the bat- 
tle of Gaines' Mill, and spent eight weeks in 
Libby prison. Two years later he was again 
captured with his entire regiment at the 
battle of the Wilderness,, and was confined 



in Andersonville prison from May until Sep- 
tember, 1864, and in Florence prison from Sep- 
tember until December, 1864. On February 
22, 1865, he was mustered out of service at 
Philadelphia as sergeant major. After receiv- 
ing his discharge, he returned to his home in 
Cumberland county, and from there went to 
Washington, D. C, and was connected with 
the war department until 1868. 

Dr. Clark was married at Mechanicsburg, 
Fa., February 28, 1871, to Miss Kate E. Gor- 
gas, daughter of Soloman P. and Elizabeth 
Gorgas, of Mechanicsburg. They have five 
children : William Gorgas, residing in Phila- 
delphia, Mary E., Joseph Nelson, Jr., Ray- 
mond Perry, and Edgar George. Dr. Clark 
is a member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 
464, F. & A. M., and of Post No. 58, G. A. R. 
In political views he is a Republican. He 
was a member of the school board for ten 
years and secretary of this body for one year. 
Dr. Clark and his wife are members of the 
Westminster Presbyterian church. He enjoys 
the respect and esteem of the community. 
On account of his recognized business ability 
and personal worth, he is regarded as justly 
entitled to his phenomenal success. 



Nunemacher, Ambrose W., pharmacist, 
was born in Germantown, Pa., son of John 
and Sarah Nunemacher, both natives of 
Philadelphia county, and both of German 
ancestry. The father was a prominent busi- 
ness man of Harrisburg, engaged in the re- 
tail shoe trade for many years. His wife 
died in December, 1893, aged eighty-four 
years. They reared seven children. One 
son, William, was accidentally killed by a 
horse falling on him; a daughter, Mary, 
died at the age of twenty-five years. Their 
living children are: Caroline, wife of Rev. 
G. J. Martz; Amanda, Samuel, and Ambrose, 
all living in Harrisburg; Harry, residing at 
Columbus, Ohio. Ambrose W. received a part 
of his education in the public schools of 
Germantown, removing with his parents to 
Morris, Montgomery county, Pa., and in 
1859 to Harrisburg, where he completed 
his education. In 1860 he began in the 
drug business with Charles A. Vanworls, a 
prominent druggist and chemist of Harris- 
burg, with whom he continued for over five 
years. In the early part of 1865 he enlisted 
in company I, Seventy-seventh regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and served until 
1866, being a part of this time with General 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



399 



Stanley's Fourth corps, in Texas, and a part 
of the time brigade hospital steward. He 
was mustered out at Philadelphia, January 
24, 1866, and returned to Hamsburg, and 
was engaged in the drug business with Dr. 
Markley for two years, after which he formed 
a partnership in the same line of trade with 
Rev. Charles A. Wyeth, with whom he con- 
tinued in business at the corner of Second 
and State streets until 1871, when he pur- 
chased Mr. Wyeth's interest, and has con- 
ducted the business on his own account 
since that date. Mr. Nunemacher was mar- 
ried, at Harrisburg in 1873, to America 
Kamerer, daughter of Henry Kamerer, to 
whom has been born one daughter, Viola 
A. Mr. Nunemacher represented the Fourth 
ward in common council one term. He is 
a member of the State and Dauphin County 
Pharmaceutical Societies, of which he is one 
of the organizers. The family attend the 
Lutheran church. 



Arnold, Calvin M., M. D., pharmacist, 
was born in Dillsburg, York count}', Pa., 
October 11, 1843, son of Micah and Mary 
(Miller) Arnold, both natives of Pennsylva- 
nia. He was reared in his native town and 
educated in the public schools and Millers- 
ville Normal School. He was then for four 
years a teacher in the public schools of York 
and Lancaster counties, and in 1864 began 
reading medicine with his brother, Dr. 
George B. Arnold. After attending the 
Hahnemann Medical Collegeat Philadelphia 
one term he entered the Homeopathic Medi- 
cal College of New York in the fall of 1866, 
from which he was graduated the ensuing 
spring, and at once began the practice of 
medicine at Gettysburg, in which he was en- 
gaged one year, and then removed to Leb- 
anon, where he practiced eighteen months. 
In 1879 he came to Harrisburg and entered 
upon a general practice, in connection with 
which, since 1882, he has conduc'ed a drug 
business. Dr. Arnold was married at Lan- 
caster city, Pa., December 25, 1874, to Miss 
Annie B. Nophsker, daughter of Henry and 
Ellen Nophsker, of Bainbridge, Lancaster 
county, to whom has been born one daugh- 
ter, Gertrude G. The Doctor is a member 
of Pilgrim Commandery, No. S3, Knights of 
St. John and Malta ; is a Prohibitionist in 
politics and attends the Fffth Street M. E. 
church. 



Deiss, William, pharmacist, was born in 
the province of Waldeck, Germany, Feb- 
ruary 16, 1844. He is a son of Andrew and 
Elizabeth (Knipple) Deiss, both natives of 
Germany and both now deceased. He was 
reared to manhood in his native land. He 
received the advantages of both a pub- 
lic school and a collegiate education. 
After leaving the schools he traveled ex- 
tensively throughout Germany, Switzerland 
and France. In 1870, at the beginning of 
the Franco-Prussian war, he became attached 
to the German army in the capacity of a 
member of the Red Cross corps, and served 
therein until the close of the war in March, 
1871. He then returned to his home, where 
he remained for two years. In 1872 he left 
Germany and came to America, taking up 
his residence with his brother, Daniel Deiss, 
at Columbus, Ohio, and with him learned 
the drug business. After the death of his 
brother in 1876 he became manager of this 
business until the business was sold out. In 
February, 1877, he removed to Harrisburg 
and engaged in the drug business with Will- 
iam Keller, under the firm name of Keller 
& Deiss. This partnership was dissolved in 
October of the same year. In the following 
December Mr. Deiss took charge of the hos- 
pital dispensary, in the performance of the 
duties of which position he rendered supreme 
satisfaction until the close of his term of 
office in 1890. On June 1, 1891, he pur- 
chased his present business from Ira Lott. 
He was married at Harrisburg, October 2, 
1881, to Mary Bonacker, a native of Harris- 
burg and of German ancestry. Two chil- 
dren have been born to them : Anna E. and 
Mina J. In political views Mr. Deiss is an 
independent Democrat. The farnih' attend 
the Lutheran church. 



Hay, John W., physician and pharmacist, 
Harrisburg, was born at Gettysburg, Pa., 
April 15, 1847. He is a son of the late Rev. 
Charles A. Hay, D. D., and Sarah R, (Bar- 
nitz) Hay. He removed with his parents to 
Harrisburg in 1849, and received his primary 
education in the schools of this city. He 
attended Pennsylvania College at Gettys- 
burg, and was graduated from that institu- 
tion with the class of 1868. He then en- 
tered the medical department of the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia, 
graduating therefrom in 1871. He at once 
entered upon the practice of medicine in 



400 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Harrisburg, and continued it for five years. 
In 1876 he engaged in the drug business, 
and has since given it his entire attention. 
He was married at Gettysburg, August 7, 
1871, to Sarah Jane Welty, daughter of Solo- 
mon and Jane (Livingston) Welty. To 
them have been born nine children, five of 
whom are living. Their names are: Bessie 
Barnitz, Charles Livingston, Martin Luther, 
Nellie McKnight, and Mary. Those dead 
were named: Rebecca Jane, William Welty, 
Ruth Stevenson, and John Deyoe. Dr. Hay 
is a member of Council No. 3, United Ameri- 
can Mechanics. He served as United States 
pension examiner for eighteen years. In 
politics the Doctor is a staunch Republican. 
The familv attend the Lutheran church. 



Nicholas, John B., druggist, and alder- 
man of the First ward, Harrisburg, was 
born at Annville, Lebanon county, Pa., De- 
cember 25, 1849. He is a son of Jacob M. 
and Harriet (Berry) Nicholas. His parents 
were very early settlers of Lebanon county, 
but removed to Harrisburg in 1851, where 
the father still resides, at the advanced age 
ot seventy-three years. The mother died in 
1858. They had a family of four children, 
of whom John B. and Benjamin are the 
only surviving members. When two years 
of age, John B. was brought by his parents 
to Harrisburg, where he has resided continu- 
ously for forty-five years, taking an active 
part in all measures tending to promote the 
welfare of the city. He was educated in the 
public and parochial schools of the city. 
He learned the drug business and has been 
engaged in this business during his whole 
career as a business man ; for the past 
twenty-five years he has done business for 
himself and now commands a large trade. 
Mr. Nicholas has been twice married. His 
first wife was Miss Mary R. Dennison, 
daughter of Horatio and Jane C. Dennison, 
of Harrisburg. To this marriage no chil- 
dren were born. Mrs. Nicholas died in 
1884. His present wife was Miss Mary R. 
Ross, daughter of Adam and Sarah (West) 
Ross, early settlers of Franklin county, Pa. 
To them have been born three children: 
one died in infancy ; Ruth died July 16, 
1896, and John B., Jr., alone survives. Mr. 
Nicholas has taken a very active part in 
political matters. He has represented the 
First ward as alderman for twenty-two years. 
He and his family attend the Presbyterian 
church. 



Pfouts, William C, pharmacist, was born 
at Black Creek, Clinton county, Pa., March 
29, 1850, son of the late Dr. George I. and 
Mary V. (Gouter) Pfouts, the former born at 
Jersey Shore, Lycoming county, in 1822, and 
the latter in Columbia, Lancaster county, 
Pa. The father was a well-known physi- 
cian, and was active in the practice of his 
profession for thirty-eight years. He began 
practice in the Nittany Valley, Lycoming 
county, afterwards was for many years at 
Jersey Shore, then a short time at McClures- 
ville, in Lj'coming county, and later returned 
to Jersey Shore, where he died November 2, 

1883. His wife died April ] , 1864. Will- 
iam C. was the only child. He was but an 
infant when taken by his parents to Jersey 
Shore, where he was reared to manhood, re- 
ceiving his education in the public schools 
of that place and the West Branch high 
school. After leaving school he read medi- 
cine with his father for two years, and after- 
wards learned the drug business. After 
serving as manager for a few years he formed 
a partnership with M. P. Hepburn, with 
whom he continued in business until July, 

1884, when he withdrew from the firm. On 
January 25, 1885, he removed to Harris- 
burg, where he has been in the drug busi- 
ness since that date, having been in the trade 
for twenty-three years. Mr. Pfouts was mar- 
ried in Harrisburg, October 3, 1883, to Miss 
Amy Sheafer, daughter of Maj. H. I. and 
America Sheafer, to whom two children have 
been born : Katrina Westbrook and Ruth 
Wood. He is a member of La Belle Valer, 
No. 232, of Jersey Shore ; Perseverance Chap- 
ter, No. 21, of Harrisburg ; Hospitaller Com- 
mandery, No. 146, of Lock Haven, Pa., and 
F. & A. M. In his political views Mr. 
Pfouts is a Democrat. The family attend 
the Market Square Presbyterian church. 

Thorley, Thomas A., pharmacist, was 
born in Fairview township, York county, 
Pa., August 16, 1850, son of Samuel and 
Susan (Hurst) Thorley. The parents were 
both natives of York county and residents 
of the county until the death of the father, 
who was a farmer. His children by his first 
marriage are: John D., Thomas A., Joseph 
E., and Susan, wife of Jacob Neidig, all liv- 
ing. By his second wife he had four chil- 
dren, two of whom are living: Adam M. and 
Rebecca, wife of Frank E. Taylor, of New 
Cumberland, Pa. Thomas A. was reared in 
his native township and received his primary 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



401 



education in the public schools, and after- 
wards attended the State Normal School at 
Millersville. He came to Harrisburg and 
studied pharmacy with J. A. Miller until 
1877, since which date he has been in busi- 
ness for himself. He was married in Pitts- 
burgh, Pa., March 4,1880,toMiss E.E.Early, 
daughter of Samuel Early, of Jackson count}', 
Kan., to whom have been born two chil- 
dren, one of whom died in infancy, and 
Samuel J. He and his family attend the 
Pine Street Presbyterian church. In poli- 
tics Mr. Thorley is a Democrat. 



Steevek, Aaron M., pharmacist, was born 
at Millersburg, Dauphin county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 17, 1850. lie is a son of James and 
Catherine (Swineford) Steever. His father 
was born at the old Murray farm, about two 
and one-half miles northeast of Millersburg, 
July 28, 1806, and died January 11, 1868. 
His mother died February 27, 1832. They 
had a family of nine children, namely: 
Wesley, born August 4, 1834, residing in 
Ohio; John Jefferson, born June 30, 1837, 
who was killed at the second battle of Bull 
Run, while nobly serving in defeuse of 
his country, August 30, 1862 ; William 
Leonard, born August 22, 1839, died January 
4, 1885 ; Henry Mitchell, born December 21, 
1841, residing in Avoca, Luzerne county, Pa.; 
Mary Jane, born February 25, 1844, wife of 
Henry Morne, residing at Etter's Postoffice, 
York county, Pa.; Edward Washington, born 
March 10, 1846, residing in Millersburg, Pa.; 
Charles C, born June 27, 1848, also residing 
at Millersburg, Pa.; Aaron M., subject of this 
sketch, and Emma Catherine, wife of Henry 
Wagner, residing in Snyder county, Pa. 

Aaron M. Steever spent his boyhood in his 
native town and received the advantages of 
a common school education. He began 
business as a stationary engineer, and fol- 
lowed this occupation for about four years. 
On March 3, 1868, he entered the store of 
his uncle, Benjamin G. Steever, and was em- 
ployed there six years. September 1, 1874, 
he removed to Harrisburg, where he has been 
continuously employed in the drug business 
for twenty-one years. 

He was married, at Millersburg, January 
1, 1874, to Miss Annie M. Shriber, daughter 
of Seth and Mary A. Shriber. One daughter 
has been born to them, named Jessie Lee. 
Mr. Steever is a member of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M. ; Dauphin Lodge, 
No. 160, and Dauphin Encampment No. 10, 



I. O. O. F.; Nazareth Commandery, No.125, 
Knights of Malta, and Royal Arcanum, 
Council No. 110. In political views he is a 
Republican. The family attend the Ridge 
Avenue M. E. church. Mr. Steever has suc- 
ceeded in business, and is a reliable man and 
an honored citizen. 



Gross, Edward Z., pharmacist, was born 
in Harrisburg, November 6, 1851. He is a 
son of Daniel W. and Elizabeth Kunkel 
Gross. He received his primary education 
in the private schools of Harrisburg, and 
later attended the academies taught by 
Gause and Seller. At the age of sixteen 
years, his academic course being completed, 
he entered the drug store of his father. In 
the winter of 1871 he matriculated at the 
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, and 
graduated from that institution in the 
spring of 1873. He at once returned to 
Harrisburg and continued in the employ of 
his father and his brother, George A., until 
1883. On January 1, of that year, he be- 
came a partner in the business. His brother 
retiring from the firm, the business was con- 
ducted by the father and Edward Z. until 
January 1, 1894. Since that date the store 
has been under the management of Edward 
Z. alone. 

Edward Z. Gross was married in Harris 
burg. May 18, 1876, to Nancy J., daughter 
of J. Vance and Hannah (Dull) Criswell. 
They have two children : Hannah C. and 
Henry McC. 

Mr. Gross has served as school director 
for one term. He is one of the managers 
of the City Hospital, and a member of the 
advisory board of the Children's Industrial 
Home. He is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M. ; Dauphin 
Lodge, No. 160, I. O. O. F., and Star of 
America Commander}', No. 113, K. of M. 
In political views Mr. Gross is a Republican. 
He and his wife and daughter are members 
of the Pine Street Presbyterian church, in 
which he is an elder, the leader of the choir, 
and the superintendent of the infant de- 
partment of the Sabbath-school. 



Gross, Daniel Wjestling, son of Abra- 
ham and Maria (Wiestling) Gross, was born 
in Middle Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., on March 11, 1810. He was 
educated in the borough schools of Harris- 
burg and the Harrisburg Academy. He 
also prepared himself thoroughly as a phar- 



402 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



roacist, and commenced business in this city 
in 1830, and continued therein until a short 
time before his death. 

Mr. Gross was active and prominent in 
public affairs. He was the first president of 
the borough council in 1860-62, and was a 
member of the school board for many years. 
He was a trustee of the State Lunatic 
Asylum at Harrisburg for a long period, 
and was afterwards the treasurer of that in- 
stitution. He was president of the board of 
trustees of the Theological Seminary of the 
Reformed Church ; vice-president of the 
board of trustees of Franklin and Marshall 
College, and was for many years president of 
the board of publication of the Reformed 
Church of the United States. 

Mr. Gross was an elder of Salem Reformed 
church and was prominent in all the affairs 
of the denomination. He served on the 
famous " Peace Commission," appointed to 
allay the excitement over the liturgy. He 
was the oldest member of the Salem church, 
and was for a long time superintendent of 
the Sunday-school and also of the infant de- 
partment of the school. Daniel W. Gross 
was married, in 1841, to Elizabeth, eldest 
daughter of George Kunkel, of Harrisburg, 
who died in 1882. Their children were : 
George A., John K., Joshua W., Daniel 
W., deceased, Edward Z. , Henry S., Robert, 
deceased, and Mary Elizabeth, deceased. 
At the home of his son, Joshua W., sur- 
rounded by his friends, having just reached 
his eight} r -sixth year, he quietly passed 
away, after a lingering illness, March 11, 
1896. His retrospect was an active and use- 
ful life crowned with humble and honored 
age, while before him lay the joy and glory 
of eternal life. 



Foltz, John B., pharmacist, was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., August 26, 1853. He is a 
son of William and Frances (Sproat) Foltz, 
the former a native of Lancaster, Pa., the 
latter of Elizabethtown, Lancaster county. 
Both are living and reside in Harrisburg. 
They had twelve children, five of whom are 
living: William, residing at Lancaster, Pa., 
Joseph, residing at Manorville, Pa., Charles, 
residing at Harrisburg, John B. and Frank, 
residing at Seattle, Wash. 

John B. Foltz was educated in the public 
schools of Harrisburg. His first year after 
leaving school was spent in the employ of 
the Grover & Baker Sewing Machine Com- 
pany. On April 15, 1871, he became clerk 



in the drug store of D. W. Gross & Son, and 
continued for fifteen years in their employ- 
ment. Since 1886 he has been engaged suc- 
cessfully in the drug business on his own 
account. He was married in Harrisburg 
November 1, 1883, to Sarah, daughter of 
John and Louisa Emerich, of Harrisburg. 
They have one child, named Mary Frances. 
Mr. Foltz is an active member of Central 
Lodge, No. 19, A. 0. U. W., and of the Royal 
Arcanum. In his political views he is a 
Liberal, casting his vote for the men of his 
choice rather than of his party. He attends 
the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Hamlin, Benjamin B., Jr., pharmacist, 
was born in Baltimore, Md., March 25, 1858. 
He is a son of the Rev. Benjamin Hamlin, 
D. D., and Rebecca B. (Manley) Hamlin. 
His father was chaplain of the Senate of 
Pennsylvania during the session of 1894. 
Benjamin H, Jr., is a graduate of the Cham- 
bersburg high school, and also attended the 
Chambersburg Academy for two years. Dur- 
ing 1876-77 he was engaged in the drug- 
business at Canal Fulton, Stark county, Ohio. 
In 1878 he engaged in the same business 
in Harrisburg, and has since been con- 
tinuously in the business here. During 1880 
and 1881 he attended the Philadelphia Col- 
lege of Pharmacy, and was graduated from 
that institution in 1881. He was married 
in Philadelphia, May 11, 1881, to Miss Celia 
D. Whiteman, daughter of William K. and 
Victoria Whiteman, of Philadelphia. Mr. 
and Mrs. Hamlin attend the Methodist Epis- 
copal church. In his business Mr. Hamlin 
is abreast of the times. His pharmacy is a 
credit to the city. The prescription depart- 
ment receives the personal and special at- 
tention of Mr. Hamlin, and the results are 
as accurate and reliable as skill and care can 
produce. 



Kramer, Charles F., druggist, was born 
in Carlisle, Pa., May 14, 1859, son of John 
and Mary (ScMegel milch) Kramer, both na- 
tives of Hesse Darmstadt, Germany. The 
parents came to America on the same vessel 
in 1827, located in Carlisle, Pa., where two 
years later they were married. The father 
is a stone mason by trade, and is still en- 
gaged in that occupation. He has lived in 
the same house for thirty years. The mother 
died in 1865. They had eight children, six 
of whom are living : Mary A., George, Mar 
garet, Adam, Annie and Charles F., twins 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



403 



Charles F. spent bis boyhood in Carlisle, 
and received his education in the public 
schools of that place. He began his business 
career by a clerkship of three years with W. 
F. Home. In 1880 he entered the Phila- 
delphia College of Pharmacy, from which he 
was graduated in 1882, after which he en- 
tered the large drug store of H. C. Blair's 
Sons, serving three years as prescription 
clerk and seven years as manager. In 1891 
he came to Harrisburg and embarked in the 
drug business for himself, in which he has 
continued successfully since that date. Mr. 
Kramer was married in Harrisburg, Decem- 
ber 29, 1884, to Henrietta Klucker, daugh- 
ter of Bartholomew and Mary (Shaumbuch) 
Klucker, the former a native of Germany, 
the latter of Cumberland county, at that 
time residents of Carlisle, and later of Har- 
risburg. To Mr. and Mrs. Kramer have 
been born three children: Hugh Reynolds, 
died at the age of five years, Charles F., Jr., 
and Mildred. Mr. Kramer is a member of 
America Lodge, No. 25, I. 0. 0. F., of Phila- 
delphia, and of Egyptian Commandery, No. 
114, K. of M., of Harrisburg. In his poli- 
tics he is a Republican. He attends Bethle- 
hem Lutheran church. 



the fraternities, being a member of Cincin- 
natus Commandery, No. 96, K. of M. ; Har- 
risburg Council, No. 328, Jr. 0. U. A. M.; 
Harrisburg Conclave, No. 92, I. 0. H., and 
Warrior Eagle Tribe, No. 340, I. 0. R. M. 
In politics he is a Democrat. The family 
attend the Lutheran church. 



Fager, Christian M., M. D., pharmacist, 
was born in Harrisburg, May 6, 1860, son of 
George C. and Frederica (Maeyer) Fager. 
He received his primary education in the 
public schools, and also attended the Har- 
risburg Academy. He began the study of 
medicine with Dr. C. B. Fager, and in the 
fall of 1877 entered the medical department 
of the University of Pennsylvania, at Phila- 
delphia, from which he was graduated in 
the class of 1881, after which he served for 
one year in the Harrisburg Hospital. He 
engaged in a general practice in Harrisburg 
for a short time, and in 1882 removed to 
West Fairview, Cumberland county, and 
practiced there until July, 1887. He then 
returned to Harrisburg and again entered 
upon the practice of medicine, in which he 
has continued to the present time. In July 
of the same j'ear he opened a drug store, and 
has conducted a general business in that 
line since that date. Dr. Fager was married, 
in Harrisburg, to Miss Sabina B. Marshall, 
daughter of Dr. Robert E. Marshall, of West 
Fairview, Cumberland county, and to them 
have been born five children : Frederica, 
Helen, Bessie, Margaret and Mary. 

Dr. Fager is prominently connected with 



Knouse, Jacob H., of the firm of Forney & 
Knouse, druggists, Harrisburg, is a son of John 
and Rebecca (Krone) Knouse. He was born at 
Goldsboro, York county, Pa., February 26, 
1861. His grandfather, Jacob Knouse, was 
born near Jonestown, Lebanon county, Pa., 
July 19, 1795, and was a resident of Lebanon 
county all his life. He died at the advanced 
age of eighty-four years, November 14, 1879. 
The maiden name of Mrs. Jacob Knouse was 
Catherine Boyle. She was born in Ireland 
in 1793, and came to America in 1800. She 
was a resident of both Franklin and Lebanon 
counties. She died in 1875, aged eighty-two 
years. John Knouse, father of Jacob H., 
was born near Lebanon, Pa., August 15, 
1816, and came to Harrisburg in 1870. He 
was a shoemaker, but during his declining 
years has lived a retired life. He was twice 
married. Of the first union there is one sur- 
viving child, Catherine, wife of D.M. Shelley, 
of Harrisburg. In the second marriage, he 
was united, in Cumberland county, Pa., in 
1858, to Rebecca Krone, who was born in 
York county, Pa., near Lewisberry, in 1828. 
To this marriage there were born four chil- 
dren, three of whom are living: Ira P., 
Jacob H., and Edward S. A daughter, Mary, 
wife of Lewis Klucker, died in 1888, leaving 
her husband and one son, Albert. 

Jacob H. Knouse came with his parents to 
Harrisburg when he was nine j'ears old, and 
has resided here ever since. His education 
was received in the public schools of York 
county and in the public schools of Harris- 
burg. He was graduated from the Harris- 
burg high school in 1877. He entered the 
drug store of A. W. Nunemacher as an ap- 
prentice to the drug business, and remained 
in this employment three years. At the ex- 
piration of this time he entered the College 
of Pharmacy at Philadelphia, from which he 
was graduated in 1882. During his course 
at the college he spent the intervals between 
terms as a clerk in a drug store in Atlantic 
City, N. J. After graduating- he spent one 
year as a clerk in the drug business at Wil- 
mington, N. C. In 1883 he returned to Har- 
risburg and was employed in the drug store 



404 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of Dr. Raysor for nearly five years. In 1889 
he engaged in business in connection with 
Mr. C. M. Forney. 

Mr. Knouse was married in Harrisburg, 
April 24, 1883, to Miss Ella B. Mosey, 
daughter of Daniel M. and Sarah Mosey, of 
Harrisburg. They have two daughters, 
Violet Claire and Evelyn May. Mr. Knouse 
is a member of America Council, No. 3, 
0. U. A. M., and of Capital City Council, No. 
327, Jr. 0. U. A. M. He is a member of 
Nazareth. Commandery, No. 125, K. of M.; 
of Fraternal Mystic Circle, and of Dauphin 
County Pharmaceutical Association, and of 
the Pennsylvania State Pharmaceutical As- 
sociation. Politically he is a Republican. 
He and his family attend the Fourth Street 
Church of God. Mr. Knouse is a man of 
high standing in business and in society. 



Roe, Edwakd J., proprietor of the Brook- 
wood pharmacy, was born at Rohrsburg, 
Columbia county, Pa., June 28, 1861. He 
is a son of Dr. Francis M. and Sarah A. Roe. 
His parents settled in Harrisburg in April, 
1880. His father and grandfather were 
medical practitioners. Dr. Francis M. Roe 
practiced his profession at Rohrsburg, Pa., 
and also in Michigan and Indiana, during 
his residence in those States. Upon taking 
up his residence in Harrisburg he aban- 
doned the practice of his profession, and on 
June 10, 1880, embarked in the drug busi- 
ness, to which he devoted his entire atten- 
tion until his death, which occurred July 6, 
1892. His wife and four of their children 
are living: Edward J., Ada S., a teacher in 
the public schools of Harrisburg, William, 
a pharmacist of Washington, D. C, and Car- 
rie A. 

Edward J. Roe, when very young, was 
taken by his parents to Michigan ; a year 
later they removed to Indiana, locating in 
Elkhart county. He was educated in the 
public schools of Bristol, and also took a 
course in the Business College of Harrisburg. 
In the fall of 1880 the family removed to 
Harrisburg. Edward J. then became phar- 
maceutical clerk in his father's store. For 
the past twelve years he has been a member 
of the firm, and since the death of his father 
has conducted the business in his own and 
his mother's interest. Mr. Roe was married 
at Pottsville, Pa., November 26, 1891, to 
Carrie De Frehn, daughter of Joseph and 
Abigail De Frehn, both old and honored 
residents of Schuylkill county. To them 



were born, August, 1894, twin boys, who 
died when but a few weeks old. Mr. Roe is 
a charter member of Steelton Lodge, No. 184, 
I. O. O. F., and of the Fraternal Mystic Cir- 
cle, Ruling No. 440, of Harrisburg. In 
political views he is a Republican. He at- 
tends the Episcopal church, of which Mrs. 
Roe is a member. 



Forney, Charles M., of the firm of For- 
ney & Knouse, wholesale and retail drug- 
gists, was born in Harrisburg, December 12, 
1861. He is a son of Henry Jacob and 
Lydia (Walmer) Forney. He was educated 
in the public schools of Harrisburg, in- 
cluding the high school. He next became 
a student in the pharmaceutical department 
of the drug store of Dr. M. F. Raysor, and 
studied with him for three years. The next 
two years were spent in the Philadelphia 
College of Pharmacy, from which he gradu- 
ated in March, 1882. He went to Trenton, 
N. J., where for the following four years he 
was manager of the drug stores of W. S. 
Taylor and C. H. Young. In June, 1886, 
he returned to Harrisburg and purchased 
the drug business of John B. Foltz, which 
he conducted until July, 1887, at which date 
he sold the business to Dr. C. M. Fager. In 
October of the same year, he formed his 
present co-partnership with Mr. J. H. 
Knouse, under the firm name of Forney & 
Knouse. 

Charles M. Forney was married in Har- 
risburg, September 22, 1885, to Miss Anna 
L. Millard, daughter of Andrew B. and 
Mary Millard, natives of York county, Pa., 
who were at that date residents of Steelton, 
and who now reside in Lisburn, Cumber- 
land county, Pa. One son, Henry A., was 
born to them January 31, 1887. Mr. For- 
ney is a member of Star of America Com- 
mandery, No. 113, K. of M., and Capital 
City Council, No. 327, Jr. O. U. A. M. In 
political views he is a Republican. He at- 
tends the Presbyterian church at Paxtang, 
where he resides. He is well and favorably 
known as a reliable business man, and a citi- 
zen of personal worth. 

Hess, Edwin H., pharmacist, was born in 
Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa., March 
19, 1862, son of Hiram W. and Ella T. 
(Famstermacher) Hess, both natives of Leb- 
anon count}' and of German ancestry, the 
former still living and residing in Harris- 
burg, the latter died at Harrisburg, April 10, 



DA UPHJN CO UNTY. 



405 



1890. The father is a locomotive engineer, 
and has been in the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company since 1868, 
and has been a resident of Harrisburg for 
twenty-eight years. Edwin H. is the only 
child of his parents and came with them to 
Harrisburg when he was six years old. He 
received his primary education in the public 
schools of Harrisburg and subsequently at- 
tended the College of Pharmacy, at Phila- 
delphia, from which he was graduated in 
1885. He was then engaged as pharmaceuti- 
cal clerk at Trenton and Burlington, N. J., 
for one year, and for the same length of 
time at McVeytown, Mifflin county, in the 
latter part of 1887 he embarked in the drug 
business in Harrisburg. Mr. Hess was mar- 
ried, at Harrisburg, November 22, 1885, to 
Rebecca F. DePuy, daughter of Thomas 
and Julia A. (Baker) DePuy, to whom there 
has been born one son, Jay Baker. Mr. Hess 
holds membership in Robert Burns Lodge, 
No. 464, F. & A. M., and in the Society of 
Alumni of Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. 
Mr. and Mrs. Hess are consistent members 
of Messiah Lutheran church. 



Cotterel, John W., pharmacist, was born 
in Harrisburg, Pa., August 26, 1S62. He is 
a son of John and Emma (Wise) Cotterel. 
John Cotterel was a native of England, and 
came to America at the age of eleven. For 
several years he was with his father at Read- 
ing, Pa., in the green grocery business ; lie 
was afterwards in the same business in 
Philadelphia, Pa. In 1860 he removed to 
Harrisburg, where he was in the grocery 
business until his death. He died, Septem- 
ber 27, 1865, from injuries and exposure in- 
curred while serving in the army in defense 
of his country during the war of the Rebel- 
lion. His wife, Emma Wise, was born in 
Reading; she survives him and resides in 
Harrisburg. Their children are : James K., 
David W., John W. and Margaret M. 

John VV. Cotterel accpuired his education 
in the Soldiers' Orphans' Home at Mount 
Joy, Pa. After leaving this institution he 
was employed as salesman in various 
branches of business, and was also for some 
time apprentice to the printing business. In 
1885 he entered the Philadelphia College of 
Pharmacy, and graduated from it in 1887. 
He then returned to Harrisburg, and since 
April, 1887, has been successfully engaged 
in the drug business in this city. 

Mr. Cotterel was married at Newport, Perry 



county, Pa., July 18, 1888, to Margaret A., 
daughter of Daniel and Amelia Iungerich, 
of Newport. They have no children. Both 
are consistent members of the Fifth Street 
Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Cotterel 
. is an active member of Harrisburg Council, 
No. 328, Jr. 0. U. A. M.,of Peace and Plenty 
Lodge, No. 59, I. 0. 0. F., and of Egyptian 
Commandery, No. 114, A. and I.O. K. of M. 
His political creed is Republican. 

Deshong, James B., pharmacist, was born 
in Elizabethtown, Lancaster county, Pa., 
May 3, 1867. He is the son of Rev. John 
W. and Rebecca M. (Anderson) Deshong. 
His father has been connected with the min- 
istry for thirty-two years, and for six years 
has been the pastor of the Bethel church in 
Harrisburg. The parents had a famiby of 
nine children, one of whom died in infancy. 
Their living children are: ArvillaS., wife 
of McClellan Ebright, Philadelphia; Mar- 
garet A., wife of John B. Fisher, Harrisburg; 
Hany E., Altoona; James B. ; William, 
Philadelphia; Carrie B., John C. and Ed- 
ward A., Harrisburg. Rev. Mr. Deshong 
was of French and his wife of Scotch an- 
cestry. 

James B. Deshong received his education 
in the schools of Lancaster and Blair coun- 
ties, and in the Mountain City Business 
College, of Altoona. He engaged as phar- 
maceutical clerk witli Mr. George Schim- 
minger, of Altoona, and continued with him 
for five years; then with Hamlin & Hunter, 
of Erie, and subsequently with D. G. Hur- 
ley & Co., of Altoona, with a Mr. Hern, of 
Du Bois, Clearfield county, Pa., and with 
Dr. John W. Hay. On December 23, 1S94, 
he commenced business for himself. He 
attends the Church of God. 



Gorgas, George A., pharmacist, was born 
in Lower Allen township, Cumberland 
county, Pa. He is a son of William R. and 
Elizabeth (Hummel) Gorgas. William R. 
Gorgas was born in Lower Allen township, 
May 8, 1806, and was an honored resident 
of that township for seventy-one years. He 
held many important public positions. He 
served in both branches of the Legislature, 
and was for many years on the school board. 
He removed to Harrisburg in the fall of 
1877, where lie lived a retired life until his 
death, which occurred December 7, 1892. 
The ancestors were natives of Holland. The}- 
settled in Germantown, Pa., prior to 1730. 



406 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



From that place they went to Ephrata, Lan- 
caster county, Pa. About 1800 the grand- 
father settled in Cumberland county. The 
mother of George A. Gorgas was a daughter 
of David Hummel, an early settler in Dau- 
phin county. Eight children were born to 
them; two died in infancy and David died 
at the age of sixteen. Dr. S. R., a prominent 
physician, died June 30, 1893. Their living 
children are: William L., cashier of the 
Harrisburg Bank, Catherine F., Mary E., 
and George A. 

George A. Gorgas passed his boyhood on 
his father's farm, and received his education 
in the public schools of his native township. 
He afterwards attended Cumberland Valley 
State Normal School at Shippensburg, also 
Cumberland Valley Institute at Mechanics- 
burg. After completing his education he 
became a student of pharmacy with Daniel 
H. Hamaker, of Harrisburg, for three years. 
He then attended tbe College of Pharmacy 
of Philadelphia for two years, graduating 
from that institution in 1881. He afterwards 
resided in Washington for two years. In 
1883 he returned to Harrisburg and pur- 
chased the drug business of I. D. Lutz. He 
conducted this business until 1894, at which 
date he removed to his present commodious 
premises. 

George A. Gorgas was married at Leb- 
anon, Pa., April 23, 1891, to Miss Rachel 
Grittinger, daughter of Henry C. and Agnes 
C. Grittinger. Their children are: Elizabeth 
Hummel, who died in infancy, and Cathe- 
rine, who still survives. Mr. Gorgas is a 
member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464; 
Perseverance Chapter, No. 21; Harrisburg 
Council, No. 7, and Pilgrim Commandery, 
No. 11, F. & A. M.; also of Lulu Temple, A. 
A. 0. N. M. S. He is a member of the 
American Pharmaceutical Society and of the 
Dauphin County Pharmaceutical Society. 
In political views he is Democratic. He at- 
tends the German Reformed church. 



Kitzmiller, Frank K., pharmacist, is the 
youngest son of Daniel and Sarah A. (Gor- 
gas) Kitzmiller, and was born at Pine Grove, 
Schuylkill county, Pa. He came to Harris- 
burg with his parents when he was three 
years old. He was educated in the public 
schools and the high school of this city. Mr. 
Kitzmiller studied pharmacy for seven years 
in the store of E. Z. Gross, of Harrisburg; 
he subsequently attended the College of 
Pharmacy at Philadelphia, and was gradu- 



ated from that institution in 1890. He then 
returned to the employment of Mr. Gross, 
and has spent twelve years in his service. 
He is a member o( Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, 
and of Dauphin Encampment, No. 10, I. O. 
O. F. He is also a member of the Pennsyl- 
vania Pharmacists' Society, and of the Alumni 
of the College of Pharmacy. 



Snyder, William H., pharmacist, was 
born in East Hanover township, September 
24, 1871. He is the son of the late Peter 
C. and Mary A. (Kaufman) Snyder. His 
parents were both natives of Berks county, 
Pa. The father was a prominent physician 
and practiced his profession for many years 
near Reading, Pa. He was also assistant 
surgeon of the Two Hundredth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, during the late 
war. In 1870 he removed to Dauphin 
county, and for several years was foreman 
of the Manada Furnaces, in East Hanover 
township. About 1873 he removed to Rock- 
ville, Susquehanna township, and there 
practiced his profession until 1877, when he 
removed to Ellendale Forge, Middle Paxton 
township, where he took charge of the char- 
coal forges until 1884, at which date he re- 
moved to Harrisburg. From that time to 
the date of his death, he was engaged in the 
drug business. He died October 4, 1893. 
His wife died March 6, 1893. To them 
were born three children : Walter, residing 
at Reading, Pa. ; William H. and Mary K. 
By a previous marriage of the father there 
was one daughter, Carrie M., wife of Charles 
Bartz, residing at Reading, Pa. By a former 
marriage of the mother there was one son, 
John K. Genger, who resides at Sheridan 
Furnace, Lebanon county, Pa. William H., 
when but an infant, removed with his 
parents to Rockville, and in 1877 again re- 
moved to Ellendale Forge, where he re- 
mained till 1884, receiving his education in 
the district schools. In 1884 he came with 
the family to Harrisburg. In 1886 he en- 
tered his father's drug store as a clerk. 
Since the death of his father, in 1893, he 
has conducted the business in the interest of 
the estate. 



Bernheisel, Peter, son of John and 
Catherine (Loy) Bernheisel, was born August 
18, 1806, in Cumberland (now Perry) county, 
Pa. His father was a native of Berks county, 
Pa., where he was born May 12, 1765, settled 
in Perry county about the year 1800, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



407 



where lie died on the 21st of September, 
1825. His mother was also a native of 
Berks county, born May 1, 1768, and died in 
Perry county on the 31st of August, 1833. 
Peter's early education was limited to the 
schools of the county until 1822. when he 
went to Carlisle, where he learned the trade 
of a carpenter and builder. He came to Har- 
.tisburg from Carlisle in 1827, was married to 
Margaret Uhler in 1828, went to Perry county 
and returned and settled in Harrisburg in 
1830, where he became a contract builder 
until 1859. He was the builder of the county 
jail and the Presbyterian church on Second 
street. He served as a member of the old 
borough council during the shin-plaster era, 
and filled other municipal offices. In 1859 
he relinquished the housebuilding and went 
into the lime business. Mr. Bernheisel mar- 
ried, first, on the 28th of August, 1828, Mar- 
garet, daughter of John and Catherine Uhler, 
and their children were : John Frederick, 
Jeremiah, Peter, Augustus, George, William 
Henry, and Jacob Houser, all deceased ex- 
cept. Peter and William H. His second 
wife was Elizabeth, daughter of John and 
Barbara Shott, and their children were : 
Barbara Catherine, deceased, Valentine Hum- 
mel, of Harrisburg, and Rebecca Shott, wife 
of William Painter, of Harrisburg. His 
third wife was Frances, daughter of Bernard 
and Elizabeth Sigman. 



DeHaven Jehu, retired builder of Harris- 
burg, Pa., was born in Montgomeiy county, 
Pa., April 15, 1814. He is a son of Nathan 
and Diana (Waltz) DeHaven, both of French 
descent. Mr. Nathan DeHaven was for many 
years a stone mason. He had six children, 
of whom John is the only survivor; the de- 
ceased children are : William, Henry, Ulrich, 
Henrietta, and Eliza. Mr. and Mrs. DeHaven 
both died in Montgomery county. 

Jehu DeHaven enjoyed only the educa- 
tional advantages of the private schools of 
his native county. At the age of seventeen 
he began to learn the stone mason's trade, 
serving an apprenticeship of two years. He 
worked for some time as a journeyman, and 
was in this business altogether about thirty 
years. After this, he came to Harrisburg, 
and began taking large contracts. His work 
in this line was done for the most part in 
Pennsylvania. He built four miles of the 
Union canal, and two miles of the Reading 
railroad. He was also a contractor for bridge 
work. He built the large Soldier's monu- 



ment which stands at the foot of State street, 
Harrisburg, and the postoffice in that city, 
which he finished in 1S73. In 1870 he 
built the Presbyterian church on Third 
street. About the same year, Mr. DeHaven 
built his large and fine residence, which he 
has occupied twenty-two years. After com- 
pleting the postoffice building, he retired 
from active business. 

Jehu DeHaven was married, in Dauphin 
county, October 3, 1837, to Esther, daughter 
of John and Catherine (Conrad) Kline. Of 
their ten children, seven are living : William, 
Eliza, wife of Jacob Fackler, of New York 
City, Jehu, Jr., Emily, widow of Edward 
Jones, Esther, widow of Albert Bricker, Isa- 
bella, Frederick, a prominent hardware mer- 
chant, Harrisburg, Pa.; and the deceased 
children are: Matilda, died at the age of 
nine months, [and George. Mrs. DeHaven 
died in 1885, at the age of seventy years. 
Mr. DeHaven has been an active member of 
Lodge No. 70, I. 0. O. F., for forty years. 
He is a Republican. He is a congregational 
member of the Presbyterian church, of which 
his wife was a consistent member. 

Mrs. DeHaven was born in 1815. Her 
parents were both natives of Montgomery 
county. Mr. Kline was engaged in the shoe 
business. They had six children: Esther, 
Leah, Catherine, Frederick, and William. 
The family belonged to the Presbyterian 
church. Both parents died at their home in 
Montgomery county. 



Ball, Joseph, contractor, 127 Pine street, 
Harrisburg, was born in Delaware, January 
28, 1829, and is a son of Joseph and Lydia 
(McCoombs) Ball. He has an honorable an- 
cestiy from whom he has doubtless inherited 
the spirit which has animated him in his 
business career in this city as well as the 
qualities which have enabled him to achieve 
his honorable success. His paternal grand- 
father, William Ball, married Miss Springer, 
and together they came from England in 
1803, and were a part of that large number 
of intelligent and virtuous people who felt 
the limitations of old customs and dense 
populations, and appreciated the fuller free- 
dom and ampler opportunities which this 
country, at the establishment of its inde- 
pendence, offered to all who desired to enjoy 
its rich resources. They landed at New Cas- 
tle, and settled on the Christina river. His 
maternal ancestors, the McCoombs, possessed 
similar characteristics, only they 'were of 



408 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



that still more sturdy and stirring stock of 
the north of Ireland, from which so many 
men of worth and eminence have sprung. 
They also came hither at an early date in 
the century and settled in the State of Dela- 
ware, on the Christina river. Mrs. Mc- 
Coombs' maiden name was Walker. In 
early boyhood Mr. Ball appears to have de- 
veloped somewhat of a restless and adven- 
turous spirit, and proposed to himself to look 
about in the world and see something of its 
countries and customs before settling down 
to the regular routine of life's duties. In 
gratification of this spirit he shipped before 
the mast as common sailor in the whaling 
and naval service, and results and subse- 
quent events show that the lessons and ex- 
periences of this voyage were not lost, for on 
his return he settled at once into the com- 
monplace and unromantic position of an ap- 
prenticeship to the carpenter trade. That 
he was apt and in earnest in his trade learn- 
ing is proved by the proficiency and skill he 
acquired in his chosen occupation. He came 
to Harrisburg in 1860 and found here, in 
this prosperous and growing city, an ample 
field for the business he desired to establish. 
He diligently followed his occupation, and 
finally became well established and promi- 
nent as a builder and contractor. The 
marks and monuments of his successful 
works are to be seen in the prominent struc- 
tures which have been erected under his 
able aud faithful superintendence. Among 
those may be named the first Paxton mills 
and the additions thereto, the Paxton flour- 
ing mills, the Reily street, Maclay street and 
high school buildings, and the Trust Com- 
pany building. He also remodeled the 
Commonwealth Hotel, and has constructed 
many of the fine residences of the city. He 
is acceptable to both owners and architects, 
because he is equally faithful to both, and 
has the skill to construct the material reali- 
zation of the wants of the one and the plans 
of the other. Mr. Ball is further interested 
in other substantial business enterprises of 
the city, being a stockholder in the Chestnut 
Street market house and in the Harrisburg 
Trust Company. In political views he is in 
harmony with the Republican party. His 
only military service is his former connec- 
tion with the State militia. He was married, 
in 1861, to Miss Lucretia J. Lutz. Their 
children are: William G., contractor of Har- 
risburg, Pa., and Sarah J., the wife of Joseph 
Weaver, of Harrisburg. Mrs. Ball has from 



early youth been a member of the First Bap- 
tist church. The wife of George Washing- /L 
ton was a member of the BalL/ainily. | 

Bernheisel, Peter, architect, was born 
at Harrisburg, Pa., April 25,1833. He is a 
son of Peter and Margaret (Uhler) Bern- 
heisel. His father was a native of Perry 
county, Pa., and was born near what is now 
called Green Park, in 1806, and died in this 
city, September 22, 1887, aged eighty-one 
years. His mother was born in Harrisburg, 
and died in 1848. Their family consisted 
of seven children, of whom two survive: 
Peter and William H., of Harrisburg, who 
was injured by a fall while engaged at the 
erection of the Friendship engine house, 
and for thirty-seven years has not left his 
bed. The father was married three times. 
By the second marriage three children were 
born; and by the third marriage none were 
born. 

Peter received his education in the public 
schools of the city. He learned the carpen- 
ter trade, and at the' same time studied 
architecture. In 1856 he became manager 
of Trullinger & Co.'s planing mill, and 
filled the position for seven years. In 1863 
he engaged in business for himself as a con- 
tractor and builder, and continued in this 
business for twenty-two years. In 1885 he 
abandoned this occupation, and since that 
date he has devoted his time to the business 
of architect. He built the residences of Dr. 
Reily and Dr. Porter, the addition to In- 
ternal Affairs and House of Representatives, 
Telegraph building, and others. 

He was married in Harrisburg, Pa., No- 
vember 9, 1856, to Hannah R. Webner, 
daughter of Charles and Harriett (Salada) 
Webner, a native of Lebanon. Six children 
have been born to them, five of whom are 
living, namely : Margaret, wife of H. H. 
Lingle, Harrisburg ; Amanda, deceased ; 
George, Harrisburg ; William, Harrisburg; 
Charles H, a partner with his father; and 
M. Frances. In politics Mr. Bernheisel is a 
Republican. The family attend the Lu- 
theran church. 



Schlayer (Schlehr), Jacob F., contractor, 
was born in Harrisburg, Pa., January 17, 
1837. He is a son of the late Jacob Freder- 
ick and Elizabeth Maria (Beckley) Schlehr. 
Jacob Frederick Schlehr was born in the 
town of Ringlinge, Baden, Germany. For 
many years he was engaged in farming. In 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



409 



1832 he emigrated with his family to Amer- 
ica. The passage across the ocean in a sail- 
ing vessel occupied sixty-eight days. They 
reached Baltimore, Md., September 4, 1832. 
A few days later he procured a team and 
wagon to transport his family and household 
goods to Harrisburg. In two days they 
reached York, Pa., where they rested one 
day and procured another team. Harrisburg 
was reached a day or two later, with no mis- 
hap save the occasional upsetting of the 
wagon. The remainder of their lives was 
passed in Harrisburg. They were well- 
known and honored residents. The father 
died April 27, 1837. He was married in 
Baden, Germany, to Elizabeth Maria Bick- 
ley ; she died May 2, 1876. They had nine 
children • Barbara, born in Ringlinge, Baden, 
widow of the late Leonard Orth, residing in 
Harrisburg ; William, born in Ringlinge 
October 12, 1823, a continuous resident of 
Harrisburg for sixty-two years, still actively 
engaged, in his sevent} 7 -second year, at his 
trade of shoemaking ; he was married at 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, February 5, 
1855, to Catherine, daughter of the late 
Frederick Lenhart, has five living children, 
Mary, wife of John Murphy, Louisa, wife of 
Robert Wallace, William H., Edward, and 
Emma ; Caroline, deceased, born in Ring- 
linge, Germany ; Bernhardt, whose present 
residence is unknown ; Caroline, born in 
Ringlinge, wife of Henry Langenberg, of 
Beverley, Washington county, Ohio ; An- 
drew, born in Ringlinge, died in 1893 ; Mary, 
born at sea, deceased ; Margaret, born in 
Harrisburg, wife of Rev.' Henry Fossler, of 
Brooklyn, N. Y.; and Jacob Frederick. 

Jacob Frederick Schlehr received only a 
limited education in the schools of Harris- 
burg. At the age of twelve hebegan the battle 
of life for himself. For two years he was a 
driver on the canal. The next year he was 
clerk in the grocery store of Christ. Henry, 
on Market street. At the age of fifteen he 
was apprenticed to the house carpenter trade 
with Colestock & Garverich. This firm 
failed in business after two years and a half, 
and he was compelled to seek other employ- 
ers. He then served an apprenticeship of 
two and a half years with Holman & Sim- 
onds, making a completed apprenticeship of 
four years. His pay during the entire period 
was fifty cents a day, out of which he had to 
pay all his living expenses, including board 
and clothing. He now removed to Beverly, 
Ohio, and worked at caipentry for four 



months, returning after that to Harrisburg. 
Here he followed his trade and also con- 
ducted a dairy business. In the spring of 
1863 he abandoned the trade to devote his 
entire attention to the dairy. In the spring 
of 1865 he engaged in the sand business and 
in 1866 sold the dairy and has since been 
interested in sand. Since 1886 he has also 
been engaged in contracting. He was mar- 
ried in Harrisburg, by Rev. Dr. Hay, Janu- 
ary 16, 1859, to Anna Mary, daughter of 
William and Hannah (Worrall) Willis, both 
deceased. Their children are : William 
Henry, in the plumbing business, Harris- 
burg, and Hannah Elizabeth, wife of Henry 
Boyer. Mr. Schlayer has been for twenty- 
five years an active member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, and of Perseverance Chapter, 
No. 21, F. & A. M. He also belongs to 
Phoenix Lodge, K. of P., and of the United 
Workmen. Since the war of the Rebellion 
he has been a Republican ; he was previously 
a Democrat. He and his family attend Zion 
Evangelical Lutheran church, of which Mrs. 
Schlayer is a consistent member. 

Bender, Jacob M., retired carpenter and 
contractor, was born near Mt. Joy, Lancas- 
ter county, Pa., January 20, 1838, son of 
Jacob and Maria (Moyer) Bender, natives of 
Lancaster county. The father came to 
Dauphin county and settled in Swatara 
township, where he farmed for sixteen years 
and then moved to Highland, between Ober- 
lin and Steelton, where he was engaged in 
raising fine horses. He was a Republican 
in politics, having formerly been a Whig, 
and served in township offices. He was a 
member of the United Brethren church. 
His death occurred in 1880, at the age of 
eighty years, and his wife's death occurred 
in 1863. They had eleven children, all of 
whom reached maturity, and six of whom 
are still living : Tobias, farmer, of Kansas ; 
Elizabeth, Mrs. Samuel Rigbet, of Middle 
Paxton; Jacob M.; Susan, Mrs. Adam Swartz, 
of Texas; Mary, Mrs. Benjamin Wright; 
Daniel, of Parsons, Kan., deputy sheriff 
and member of State Legislature and farmer 
by occupation ; Henry, of Cherokee county, 
Kan., postmaster of Galena, under Harri- 
son. Jacob M. was reared in Dauphin 
county and educated in the public schools. 
He learned the trade of carpenter and fol- 
lowed the occupation for nineteen years. On 
August 8, 1862, he enlisted in company B, 
One Hundred and Twenty-ninth regiment, 



410 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Pennsylvania volunteers, as private and 
served ten months, participating in the bat- 
tles of Fredericksburg, Ghancellorsville and 
other noted engagements. He settled at 
Harrisburg permanently in 1866. He is 
prominently connected with the fraternities, 
being a member of the Odd Fellows, Knights 
of Pythias, of the Mystic Chain and of Post 
No. 58, G. A. R. His first vote was cast for 
the People's party and he has since been a 
Republican. From 1877 to 1879 he served 
as a member of the common council and 
was on the committee of ordinance and leg- 
islation. Mr. Bender was married in 1866 
to Susan Felty, daughter of John B. Felty, 
of Susquehanna township. His children 
are: Irving F., at the poor farm, Jacob Os- 
car, bookkeeper, Elizabeth, Josiah, at home, 
Daniel, drowned while skating, January 11, 
1896. Mr. Bender is a member of the 
Fourth Street Church of God. 



Miller, David R., architect, was born in 
Dauphin county, in an old log house in 
Swatara township, situated where the steel 
works now stand, September 21, 1838. He 
is a son of Jacob and Rebecca (Page) Miller. 
His parents were also both natives of Dau- 
phin county. The grandfather Miller fought 
in the war of 1812, and in that year the 
father of David R. Miller was born. He 
was engaged in agricultural pursuits, and 
died when his son David was thirteen years 
of age. His wife lived to a good old age, 
and died in 1878. Their family consisted of 
six children, of whom four are still living : 
Henry, residing in Keisley, Edwards count}', 
Kan., David R., John, a retired blacksmith, 
residing at Rockville, Dauphin county, Pa., 
and Mary, wife of William Rivers, residing at 
Goshen, Tulare county, Cal. Those dead 
are Jacob, who was killed by an accident at 
Joliet, 111., in 1872, and George, who served 
with distinction through the late war and 
was a prisoner for eleven months. He died 
at Goshen, Cal., in 1891. 

The whole life of David R. Miller has 
been spent in Dauphin county. He received 
buta limited education in the public schools, 
but compensated for this by industrious, en- 
ergetic and persevering efforts at self-im- 
provement. He was a clerk in a grocery 
store on Market street for two years, during 
which time he eagerly improved every op- 
portunity to gain knowledge and to prepare 
himself for business. He undertook to learn 
car building, but subsequently concluded to 



learn carpentry, and with this end in view 
became an apprentice to Henry Shoop. 
After his trade was learned he worked in 
"different cities in mills and factories, endeav- 
oring to make himself familiar with the 
use of newly introduced machinery. In 
1860 he returned to Harrisburg and worked 
at his trade for four years. During 1864 
and 1865 he was foreman for George Trul- 
linger & Co., who speak of his services in 
the highest terms. In 1865 he engaged 
with Daniel D. Boas, of the Harrisburg 
planing mill, and had the management of- 
that mill for ten years. During this time 
he did much work as an architect. From 
1875 to 1880 he was engaged in contracting 
and building on his own account. He 
erected the Ridge Avenue Methodist Episco- 
pal church, remodeled the Forster Street 
Lutheran church, remodeled the A 7 ine Street 
Methodist Episcopal church, and erected 
many other prominent buildings in the city. 
In 1888 he abandoned other business, and 
has since devoted his entire time to the pro- 
fessional occupation of architect. He has 
been employed in this capacity upon many 
of the most prominent private and public 
buildings which adorn the city. He has 
also done much in the line of his profession 
outside of Harrisburg. He was the architect 
of a number of cold storage houses through- 
out the South, the most noticeable among 
these being the large building at Waldo, 
Fla. He is also the architect of a number 
of public school buildings in this city and 
State, among which may be mentioned the 
public school buildings at Lykens, Dauphin 
county, and at Curwensville, Clearfield 
county, Pa. Mr. Miller's work has also ex- 
tended beyond the United States, even as 
far as Japan. He prepared the plans for a 
boys' and girls' school and chapel atSendai, 
Miyagi Ken. 

He was married in Dauphin September 
26, 1861, to Christiana L. Garvich, daughter 
of Henry and Catherine (Baker) Garvich, 
who was born in Susquehanna township, 
January 20, 1842. They have had four 
daughters, two of whom died in infancy. 
Those living are Catherine, wife of H. C. 
McMichael, residing in Harrisburg, and 
Alice, wdm resides with her parents. 

Mr. Miller is a member of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M. Pie is a trustee 
and was the first president of the Harris- 
burg Beneficial Society. He represented the 
First ward for seven and a half years in the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



411 



school board. He is a Democrat. The 
family attend the Vine Street Methodist 
Episcopal church. 

Smith, Daniel M., lumber dealer, con- 
tractor and builder, was born in Fairview , 
York count}', Pa., June 24, 1843, son of 
Michael and Catherine (Miller) Smith. The 
father was a native of Perry and the mother of 
Cumberland county. They became residents 
of York county, where they died, the former 
in August, 1863, the latter in March, 1865. 
The father was twice married, and by his 
first wife had four children, the only survivor 
of whom is Michael, residing in Perry county. 
Eight children were born to his second mar- 
riage, of whom the youngest is Daniel M., 
and the others living are Nancy, wife of 
Henry Mosey, of New Cumberland, Pa.; 
George, of Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Mary Ann, 
wife of William Sheely, of Plymouth, Ohio, 
and David, residing in Fairview township, 
York county. Daniel M. was reared on the 
farm and received his education in the dis- 
trict schools. He learned the carpenter trade 
and in 1864 came to Harrisburg, where he 
worked at his trade for two years, and 
in 1866 engaged in business for himself. 
For thirty years he has conducted a suc- 
cessful trade in lumber and in contract- 
ing and building, which has placed him 
among the prominent and substantial busi- 
ness men of the city. He was married in 
Harrisburg, October, 1865, to Catherine S. 
Kane, of Hummelstown, Pa., to whom have 
been born two children : Bertha F., died Au- 
gust 31, 1882, and Henry M. Mr. Smith is 
a member of Fulton Council, No. 35, 0. U. 
A. M., and Harmony Castle, No. 53, K. G. E. 
In his politics he is with the Democrats. He 
attends the Lutheran church. Mrs. Smith 
died October 23, 1893. 



Coder, John G., builder, was born in 
Huntingdon county, Pa., July 6, 1843, son 
of Simon and Nancy (Couch) Coder, the 
former a native of Mifflin county, and the 
latter of Huntingdon county. The father 
was a carpenter by trade and one of the 
workmen employed on the construction of 
the State capital, in the carpenter work. 
John G. was reared in Huntingdon county 
and received his education in the public 
schools, and afterwards learned the carpenter 
trade with Henry Snare. In July, 1862, he 
enlisted in company I, One Hundred and 
Twenty-fifth regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 



unteers, was made corporal and served 
nine months. He re-enlisted in May, 
1864, as a sharpshooter, and served until 
March 25, 1865, when he joined the Twenty- 
first cavalry. During a part of the time of 
service he was acting orderly, was wounded 
March 25, and discharged July 1, 1865. 
After his discharge lie completed his appren- 
ticeship at the carpenter trade. He was mar- 
ried, February 22, 1866, to Mary J. Smith, 
daughter of Elijah Smith of Huntingdon, for- 
merly of Lancaster count}'. In 1870 he 
moved to Watsonville, Northumberland 
county, and from there to Milton, where 
he engaged in contracting. In 1880 his 
accumulations of previous years of hard 
work were destroyed by fire, and he was left 
$500 in debt. He aided in rebuilding Mil- 
ton after the fire, and in 18S3 came to Har- 
risburg and took large contracts. Among 
the many important pieces of work done by 
him may be named the Steelton Flouring 
Mill, two new wings of the State Lunatic 
Asylum, the entire plant of the Sparrow's 
Point Steel Works, in Maryland, the State 
building of Pennsylvania at the Columbian 
Exposition, Chicago, in which he also put up 
their exhibit ; the Iowa and Idaho State 
buildings at the same exhibition ; the fitting 
up of the New York State building, the Ex- 
ecutive building at State Lunatic Asylum, the 
Pennsylvania State building at the Atlanta 
Exposition, and the residence of Mr. McCor- 
mick, at Harrisburg. He was also the designer 
and builder of the Workingmen's Model 
House^which wasexhibited at the Columbian 
Exposition, and 4,000 copies of the plans of 
which were sold in Europe. Mr. Coder is a 
stockholder in the Sparrows Point, Md., Steel 
Company, and a member of Henry Wilson 
Post, G. A. R., Milton, Pa. He is a Repub- 
lican in politics. His wife is a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Grove, George H., architect and builder, 
was born in Hummelstown, Dauphin county, 
Pa., May 24, 1848. He is a son of John Z. 
and Rebecca (Bowman) Grove, the former a 
native of Dauphin and the latter of Lan- 
caster county. John Z. Grove died April 10, 
1891. He was a carpenter and builder, and 
spent his life in Hummelstown. The par- 
ents had twelve children, five of whom are 
living : George H; John O., a carpenter of 
Hummelstown ; Wells C, residing in Har- 
risburg in the employ of the Pennsylvania 



412 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Railroad Company ; James H., of Harris- 
burg, also an employe on the Pennsylvania 
railroad, and Rebecca, wife of Alfred Sut- 
cliffe, of Hummelstown. 

George H. Grove was educated in the 
schools of his native town. He learned car- 
pentery and was a builder and contractor 
in his native town for twenty-five years. In 
1887 he was elected county treasurer, and 
filled this responsible office for three years. 
In 1890 he organized the Harrisburg Casket 
and Manufacturing Company, of which he 
was superintendent for two years. In Feb- 
ruary, 1892, he formed a co-partnership with 
Mr. G. W. Strite, in the architectural busi- 
ness. He is now in business for himself, 
having dissolved partnership August 3, 
1895. Mr. Grove was married in Hummels- 
town, September 14, 1871, to Caroline L. 
Balsbaugh, daughter of John and Katherine 
Balsbaugh, natives of Dauphin county and 
of German ancestry ; the former died May 
10, 1882 ; the latter June 9, 1895, at the ad- 
vanced age of eighty-five years. Mrs. Grove 
was born in Derry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa.. August 11, 1854. They have 
no children. In political views Mr. Grove 
is a Republican. He and his wife are 
members of the United Brethren church. 



McKelvy, Jacob J., contractor and builder 
No. 1311 North Front street, Harrisburg, was 
born in New Buffalo, Perry county, Pa., Oc- 
tober 26, 1849. He is a son of Jacob and 
Rebecca (McElwee) McKelvy. When he was 
about three years of age his father died and 
his mother removed to Harrisburg. He was 
educated in the public schools of that city. 
He learned carpentry, which he has since 
followed, of J. A. Slentz. He afterwards be- 
came foreman for Mr. Slentz and about 1885 
engaged in business for himself. He makes 
a specialty of stair work. He built the ad- 
dition to St. Genevieve's Academy, on Maclay 
street, the Mercy Home and many residences 
in the city. In 1864 he enlisted in company 
I, Seventy-seventh regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, and served until the close of the 
war. He is a Republican and a member of 
S. G. Simmons'!. Post, No. 116, G. A. R. He 
was married, in 1867, to Miss Mary E. Mc- 
Elwee, daughter of David McElwee, of Perry 
county, Pa. They have two children : Jen- 
nie S. and James Alfred. He attends Mes- 
siah Lutheran church. 



Smith, John C, architect, was born in the 
the city of Manchester, England, December 
11, 1855. Here he was educated and reared 
to man's estate. Here he also studied archi- 
tecture. He resided here till 1885, when he 
left his native land and came to America. 
After several years' residence in New York 
City, Chicago, and other large cities of the 
United States, he located at Harrisburg in 
1885, where for the past ten years he has 
successfully followed his profession. He was 
married at Pottsville, Pa., in 1885, to H. 
Laura Jenkins. To them has been born one 
son, named Edward. Mr. Smith stands at 
the head of his profession in Harrisburg. 
This position he has won by the exertion of 
his native ability, and by the exercise of his 
skill attained by years of close study and 
practical application of the principles of his 
art. He has displayed marked originality 
in dealing with the ever-varying problems 
and requirements of architecture. He has 
not only kept up with the advancement of 
his art in this country, but has also contrib- 
uted his full share to its development and 
progress, as he has labored to emphasize and 
harmonize its three cardinal elements of 
beauty, utility and stability. He is not only 
an artist, he is also a business man, and is a 
good exponent of his art, which is the most 
important of all the arts, since it seeks to 
combine the beautiful and the useful in the 
most practical way for the highest ends. His 
style is pure, chaste and symmetrical, and 
his methods of materializing his plans are 
direct, accurate and practical. His aim is 
always to secure the best results within the 
limits of estimates; to this end his compu- 
tations are accurate, his specifications are spe- 
cific and complete, and his supervision of 
contractors and builders is businessdike and 
close in all details. He is devoted to his pro- 
fession and has been successful. He has de- 
signed the plans and superintended the erec- 
tion of some of the handsomest and most 
substantial public and private edifices of the 
city. His work as to both exterior appear- 
ance and interior finish is found to meet the 
demands of popular taste, and compel the 
favorable judgment of experts and critics. 
Hence as man and as architect he enjoys the 
highest confidence of his fellow-citizens. 



Macqueen, James M., architect, Harris- 
burg, Pa., was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, 
September 5, 1859. He is a son of James 





£V 




DA UPHIN C UNTY. 



415 



and Eustacia Agnes (Ballantine) Macqueen, 
the former born at East Linton, Hadding- 
tonshire, and the latter at East Calder, Scot- 
land. Mr. James Macqueen still survives 
and resides in Edinburgh. Mrs. Macqueen 
died at Edinburgh in 1883. 

He received his primary education in the 
. Stockbridge free church school. He attended 
the Edinburgh School of Designs and the 
James Watt Institute (now the Watt Heriot 
College of Edinburgh). He then became a 
pupil of Alexander Rhind, a renowned sculp- 
tor, and with him learned that art, in which 
be was engaged for six years. He then be- 
gan a course of study in architecture with 
James G. Fairweather, architect, which he 
prosecuted diligently and successfully. Later 
he was engaged in the engineering depart- 
ment of the city of Edinburgh. In 1883 
he left his native land, went to the city of St. 
John's, Newfoundland, and was employed at 
the English Cathedral during the erection of 
that edifice. In the latter part of 1884 he 
returned to Edinburgh, spendings six months 
in study and travel. In 1885 he went to the 
Bermudas to assist in the building of a large 
church edifice. In April, 1886, he came to 
New York and after a short stay there to 
Hummelstown, Pa., where he was employed 
by the Hummelstown Brown Stone Company 
as draughtsman and superintendent of their 
stone-cutting department for two and a half 
years. He was afterwards manager for the 
Aldersoi: Brown Stone Company, Alderson, 
W. Va., and for a time held a similar posi- 
tion at Rondout, N. Y. In May, 1892, he 
removed to Harrisburg, Pa., and since that 
date has been one of the most prominent 
architects in the city. Among some of the 
important buildings of which he is the archi- 
tect ma}' be mentioned the Hummelstown 
Reformed church ; St. Andrew's church, St. 
John's, Newfoundland ; the Berean Baptist 
church,. Reading, Pa.; the Fourth Reformed 
church, corner Sixteenth and Market streets, 
Harrisburg ; a large factory at Bedford, Pa., 
and others. 

James M. Macqueen was married in New 
York City, December 6, 1886, to Emma Ra- 
chel Martin, of St. John's, Newfoundland, 
daughter of the late J. P. and Elizabeth 
Holmes (Hudson) Martin. They have had 
four children : Emma Elizabeth Eustatia, 
born August 7, 1889 ; James Ronald, born 
April 9, 1892 ; Mary Virginia, born August 
2, 1893 ; Margaret Elmira. born September 
1, 1S95. 
30 



Mr. Macqueen is a member of the Lodge 
of Journeymen Masons, No. 8, Edinburgh, 
Scotland, of which he is a mark master, also 
of Brownstone Castle, No. 456, K. G. E., of 
Hummelstown. He is secretary of Chapter 
57, of the Brotherhood of Andrew and 
Philip. He is a total abstainer. He was, 
while in Scotland, a member of the Queen's 
Edinburgh rifle volunteer brigade and took 
a keen interest in rifle shooting, winning 
many valuable prizes. He was selected for 
the team representing his native city, for the 
last three years he was in Scotland, against 
teams representing the cities of Perth, Dun- 
dee and Glasgow, assisting to capture the 
valuable challenge trophy permanently for 
Edinburgh by winning it three times in suc- 
cession. Mr. and Mrs. Macqueen are mem- 
bers of the Reformed church. 



Hamilton, Thomas H., architect, was born 
in Fairview township, York county, Pa., 
January 8, I860, son of John S. and Eliza- 
beth (Feisinger) Hamilton, both natives of 
York county,' still living and residents of 
Lower Allen township, Cumberland county, 
Pa. The father is a carpenter, but of late 
years has retired from active business. He 
has eight children, four of whom are living: 
Thomas H., Nulissa, wife of John Noel, re- 
siding in New Cumberland, Pa.; Cordelia, 
wife of Eli Thorley, of Steelton, Pa.; Daniel 
C, residing at Riverton, Pa., proprietor of 
lumber yard and planing mill. Mr. Ham- 
ilton has been justice of the peace for a 
number of years, and has served as store- 
keeper and gauger in the Internal Revenue 
Department. Thomas H. received his pri- 
mary education in the public schools of Fair- 
view township, and subsequently pursued 
the study of architect at Philadelphia. After 
full}' preparing himself for the profession he 
returned to Harrisburg and began business 
for himself. Mr. Hamilton was married, at 
Steelton, May 5, 1884, to Mary A. Fiese, 
daughter of Josiah K. and Sarah Fiese, to 
whom have been born five children : Luther 
J., Frances C, John F., and two who died in 
infancy. Mr. Hamilton is a member of the 
Jr. 0. U. A. M., of Harrisburg. In his po- 
litical views he is a Democrat. The family 
attend the Lutheran church. 



Strite, George AY\. architect, Harris- 
burg, Pa., was born in Lower Swatara town- 
ship, Dauphin county,' Pa., December 8, 
1862. He is a son of Abraham and Eliza- 



416 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



beth (Seibert) Strite, both born in Dauphin 
county, Pa. Abraham Strite is a cooper, 
and he and his wife are old and respected 
residents of Dauphin county ; they now re- 
side in Lower Swatara township. Four of 
their seven children are living: Jacob, re- 
siding in Lower Swatara township ; George 
W., of Harrisburg; Mary, wife of George 
Schriner, residing near Linglestown, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., and Elizabeth, at home. 
Mr. Abraham Strite's father is a prominent 
Odd Fellow, and has been a member of 
State Capital Lodge for thirty years. He is 
a Democrat. He and his wife attend the 
Lutheran church. 

George W. Strite was reared to manhood 
and attended the public schools of his na- 
tive township. He was engaged in agricul- 
tural pursuits for about ten years. In 1880 
he abandoned farming, learned carpentry, 
and made this his occupation for seven 
years. In 1887 he began the study of archi- 
tecture in Harrisburg, and has worked in 
this profession ever since. In February, 
1892, he formed a partnership with George 
H. Grove, under the firm name of Grove & 
Strite. On the third day of August, 1895, 
he dissolved partnership and went into 
business for himself; he is still occupied 
with architecture. George W. Strite was 
married in Harrisburg, December 27, 1888, 
to Catherine D. Springer, daughter of Jacob 
and Delilah Springer, born in York county. 
They have one son, named Eugene P., born 
January 19, 1891. Mr. Strite is a member 
of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 0. 0. F. 
In politics he is a Democrat. He attends 
the First Baptist church. 



Stucker, George B., of the firm of Ward 
& Stucker, general contractors in street pav- 
ing, sewers, grading, etc., was born in Har- 
risburg, December 5, 1864, son of Peter and 
Elizabeth (Koppenhoffer) Stucker, the former 
born in Swatara, the latter in Washington 
township, Dauphin county. The father was 
born in 1821, son of Joseph Stucker, a native 
of Germany, who came to America and set- 
tled on the present site of Steel ton, where he 
engaged in farming. The father was reared 
on the farm and educated in the schools of 
that time. In 1863 he came to Harrisburg 
and was elected alderman of the Second 
ward, in which office he served for twenty 
years. He was one of the donators of the 
ground on which Steelton was located and 
laid out. In his political views he was a 



Democrat. He died in 1884. His wife sur- 
vives him. Their children are: George B., 
Charles D., supply agent Harrisburg Chair 
Works; John A., city inspector; Robert, 
stenographer. George B. was reared in the 
city, and received his education in the pub- 
lic schools. In 1889 he formed a partner- 
ship with James F. Ward, under the firm 
name of Ward & Stucker, and engaged in 
contracting on city work, on pavements, 
sewers, and street grading, in which they 
have continued since that time. This firm 
were the leading contractors in the Muench 
street sewer in Harrisburg, and in the pav- 
ing and building the street. At the present 
time they are contractors for a large amount 
of similar work at Williamsport, Pa. In 
his political views Mr. Stucker is a Demo- 
crat. 



Lloyd, Charles Howard, of the firm of 
Foose & Lloyd, architects, was born at Har- 
risburg, Pa., October 12, 1873. He is a son 
of Isaac and Anna (Mosser) Lloyd. Isaac 
Lloyd, his father, has been a teacher in the 
public schools of the city for forty years, 
and to-day ranks among the oldest and 
most efficient teachers in the city. To him 
and his wife have been born four children, 
three of whom are living : Ella, wife of 
George A. Hutman, Fannie E. and Charles 
Howard. The parents attend the Fourth 
Street Church of God. 

Charles Howard Lloyd has been a resi- 
dent of the city since his birth. He received 
his education in the Harrisburg schools, and 
was graduated from the high school with the 
class of 1891. He then went to Boston and 
entered Cowles' Art School for the purpose of 
prosecuting his studies in architecture. He 
received also a great part of his instruction 
from private teachers. He studied with 
Ball & Dabney, well-known architects of 
Boston. In 1894 he formed a partnership 
at Harrisburg with Mr. Foose, under the 
firm name of Foose & Lloyd. By skill, in- 
dustry and honorable dealing in their busi- 
ness they have met with substantial suc- 
cess. Foose & Lloyd have been the archi- 
tects of some very prominent public and pri- 
vate buildings, among which are the Web- 
ster school building, Thirteenth and Kitta- 
tinny streets, public library, annex to Tres- 
ler Orphans' Home, Loysville, Pa., a large 
laundry, bath house and store house, Loys- 
ville, Pa., the large "Simon Cameron" 
school building, Harrisburg, the Wicker- 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



417 



sham school building, Harrisburg, now in 
course of erection, and many others. Mr. 
Lloyd is unmarried. He attends the Epis- 
copal church. 

Cameron, James Donald, eldest son of 
Simon Cameron and his wife Margaret Brua, 
was born May 14, 1833, in Middletown, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. He received the best edu- 
cational advantages in early life, was pre- 
pared for college, entering Princeton, from 
which institution he graduated in 1852. 
Soon after this he engaged as clerk in the 
Middletown Bank, now the National Bank 
of Middletown, of which he subsequently be- 
came cashier and afterwards president, which 
latter position he still retains. Mr. Cameron 
was president of the Northern Central Rail- 
way Company from 1863 to 1864, when the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company obtained 
the controlling interest in it, when he was 
succeeded by Col. Thomas A. Scott. As 
president of the Northern Central during cer- 
tain periods of the Civil war Mr. Cameron 
rendered great service to the national cause. 
The road, although several times cut by the 
Confederates, was a valuable means of com- 
munication between Pennsylvania and Wash- 
ington. Under Mr. Cameron's administra- 
tion after the war the Northern Central was 
extended to Elmira, N. Y., so as to reach from 
the great lakes to tide-water. Although tak- 
ing a prominent part in Pennsylvania poli- 
tics Mr. Cameron held no public office until 
1876. He was a delegate to the National 
Republican Convention at Chicago in 1868, 
and was also a prominent member of the 
Republican State Convention which met in 
Harrisburg in 1876, and by it was chosen 
chairman of the Pennsylvania delegation to 
the National Republican Convention at Cin- 
cinnati in June of that year. On the 22d of 
May, 1876, President Grant nominated him 
as Secretary of War, the Senate promptly 
confirming him. He remained in the Cabi- 
net during the balance of President Grant's 
term. The Legislature of 1877 elected him 
United States senator to fill the vacancy 
caused by his father's resignation. He was 
re-elected in 1879 for the term ending in 
1885, he was again re-elected in 1885, and 
also in 1891; his term ends March 3, 1S97. 
Mr. Cameron was a delegate to the National 
Republican Convention in 1880, and was 
that year chairman of the National Republi- 
can Committee, succeeding the late Senator 
Chandler. In the Fifty-second Congress Mr. 



Cameron was chairman of the Senate com- 
mittee on naval affairs, serving also on the 
committee on military affairs, committee on 
revolutionary claims and the select com- 
mittee of quadro-centennial and five civil- 
ized tribes of Indians. Mr. Cameron has 
been actively identified with various coal, 
iron, and manufacturing industries of Penn- 
sylvania and is widely known and esteemed 
as a public spirited citizen, of large and com- 
manding influence as well as conspicuous 
executive ability and usefulness. 



Davies, Newton H, was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., January 22, 1835, son of John 
and Mary B. (Hetzel) Davies, natives of 
Harrisburg. His paternal grandparents 
were natives of Wales. Newton H. Davies 
first attended the public schools of Harris- 
burg and his education was completed at 
Annapolis, Md., at the age of sixteen. He at 
once sought employment and was first en- 
gaged as a clerk in the stationery store of a 
Mr. Pollock, with whom he remained for 
three years. He then entered the Dauphin 
Deposit Bank, of Harrisburg, as first clerk, 
afterwards he was promoted to the position 
of chief teller, which he held during 
the remainder of his life. He died May 
5, 1895, aged sixty years. Mr. Davies was 
a Democrat. 

On October 27, 1862, Newton H. Davies 
was married in Harrisburg, Pa., to Annie 
E., daughter of William and Jane Van 
Horn. Their children were : Mary, Emma, 
wife of Harry C. Elston, of Norristown, Pa., 
Frank H, who married Miss Martha Mil- 
lard, resides at Steelton, Pa., Annie V., Rahn 
V., Lorena S. and William V. H. 

William Van Horn, the father of Mrs. 
Davies, came from New Jersey. He was a 
blacksmith and was afterwards for a num- 
ber of years in the hardware business, with 
a Mr. Fisher. At the time of his death he 
had been for fifteen years in the employ of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. He 
was married to Miss Jane, daughter of James 
Hutton ; they had four children : Annie V., 
Mrs. Davies, Emma, wife of Colonel Jen- 
nings, deceased, William, married Miss Rosa 
Reightmyer, John S., died aged six years. 
Mrs. Van Horn died April 15, 1849, aged 
thirty-five years. 

Mr. Van Horn was married a second time, 
in 1852, to Mrs. Caroline Gibbs, of Lancas- 
ter county. They had three children: Sally, 
Henry and Alfred, who died in infancy. 



418 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Mr. Van Horn died October 1, 1859, aged 
forty-nine, and the second Mrs. Van Horn 
died on February 21, 1891, at the age of 
sixty-nine. He was a member of the Meth- 
odist church, and Mrs. Caroline Van Horn 
of the Lutheran church. 



Hemler, Hamilton D., president of the 
Merchant's National Bank and of the Cen- 
tral Guarantee Trust and Safe Deposit Com- 
pany, was born in Adams county, Pa., in 1837, 
and was reared there, receiving his educa- 
tion in the public schools. He was reared 
on the farm and engaged in the butchering 
business. After retiring from the farm he 
removed to Oxford, Adams count} 7 , where he 
engaged in the same business. He removed 
to Harrisburg in 1866, where he conducted 
the butchery business for four years, and 
then formed a partnership in 1871 with 
Louis Dellone, and embarked in the cattle 
trade, shipping cattle from the West to the 
Harrisburg market, and in the spring of the 
year shipping to Philadelphia. In 1887 he 
became one of the organizers of the bank, 
and has since served as the president of 
the same. In January, 1894, he organized 
the Trust and Safe Deposit Company, of 
which he has served as president from its 
inception. In his political views he is a 
Democrat. Mr. Hemler was married in 1862 
to Miss Mary J. Dellone, daughter of John 
Dellone, of East Berlin, Adams county, Pa. 
She died July 24, 1892. Their children are : 
Catherine, Alice, Jennie, in Ogden, Utah, in 
convent ; Gertrude, married David E. Tracy, 
of Harrisburg, native of Philadelphia; Lo- 
retta, and Edith. The family are members 
of St. Patrick's Catholic church, of Harris- 
burg, and take an active interest in church 
work. 



Jennings, William Wesley, late presi- 
dent of the First National Bank of Harris- 
burg, was born July 22, 1838, at Harrisburg, 
Pa. He was a son of William and Elmina 
Elizabeth (Boas) Jennings. His grand- 
father, Capt. William Jennings, commanded 
a company raised by himself for the war of 
1812, in the Juniata Valley; but his sudden 
death prevented any extended service with 
the company. His father came to Harris- 
burg about 1824, established a foundry, and 
was successful in business. Previous to his 
marriage to Miss Elmina E. Boas he had 
learned the carriage-maker's trade. 

William Wesley was educated in the 



public schools of Harrisburg. At the age 
of fifteen years he went to work in his 
father's foundry and learned the trade of 
moulder, and was engaged in this occupa- 
tion for a number of years. In 1860 he en- 
gaged in the iron business, and conducted 
it successfully for fifteen years. During the 
war of the Rebellion he responded to the 
call of the country for defenders. He raised 
and commanded the One Hundred and 
Twenty-seventh regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, a nine months' regiment, and was 
in several important battles, among which 
were Fredericksburg and Ohancellorsville. 
In the Gettysburg campaign Colonel Jen- 
nings commanded the Twenty-sixth regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania militia. After he was 
mustered out of service he was made lieuten- 
ant of the Lochiel Grays. He served two 
terms as sheriffof Dauphin countv.from 1864 
to 1866 and from 1876 to 1879. "He was ac- 
tive in the organization of the first Board of 
Trade, and was its first president. He was 
the president of the Commonwealth Guar- 
antee Trust and Safe Deposit Company. In 
1880 he was elected president of the First 
National Bank of Harrisburg, and filled the 
position with credit until his death, which 
occurred suddenly February 28, 1894. He 
was also president of the Harrisburg Steam 
Heating Company, a director of the Cum- 
berland Valley railroad and several other 
corporations. He was a member of Robert 
Burns Lodge of Masons, of Pilgrim Com- 
mandery, Knights Templars, and of the 
Citizen Fire Compan} 7 . 

A man like William W. Jennings, from 
his strong capabilities and force of character, 
naturally occupies a foremost place among 
men. Scarcely of age when he wore the 
colonel's eagles as commander of the famous 
One Hundred and Twenty-seventh regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and withstood the 
shock of the rebel forces at the disastrous 
battle of Fredericksburg, an occasion on 
which his bravery was marked and his valor 
the subject of special commendation on the 
part of the general in command, he early 
showed the characteristics of a leader, and 
such he was to the day of his death. He 
was a man among men — and men loved 
him because he was broad-minded, liberal in 
his views, a careful methodical man, a deep 
thinker, and a friend at all times when a 
friend was needed. Summed up in the 
words of those who knew him, "We found 
him a large-hearted, generous man, and a 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



419 



staunch friend of his friends." He had no 
petty traits of character that come from a 
narrow mind — he was open-hearted and 
open-handed, and many mourn the sudden 
taking off of one whose entire life had been 
parallel with that of the city's progress and 
the prosperity of her citizens. In all that 
went to make up the useful- citizen he was 
largely endowed. lie assisted in the city's 
development and worked to foster new en- 
terprises and to push to completion his ideal 
of the prosperous community. He never 
lagged behind in the furtherance of that 
which would benefit his fellow-man and his 
city. His hand was ever open, and the 
genial, cheery, loving and lovable man is 
sadly missed in the various interests bene- 
ficial to all in which he was concerned. A 
hater of wrong and oppression, he was quick 
to voice his sentiments, and he was brave to 
back them up. On the memorable night of 
July 23, 1877, when an armed mob had 
taken possession of Harrisburg and the city 
was demoralized, Colonel Jennings sum- 
moned a posse and by his own personal dar- 
ing and fearlessness set an example that 
simply inspired men and led to a repression 
of the riotous element and the restoration of 
order. So was he brave in all things. He 
was quick to resent a wrong on the weak, 
and courageous in battling for the oppressed. 
Colonel Jennings was foremost in giving 
when a cry went up from the needy, and 
while his public acts of charity were equal 
to those of any of his fellow-citizens, no 
man knows, nor will ever know, how fre- 
quently his broad private charity was exer- 
cised, nor how often he aided the distressed 
— not only those who were poor, but those 
who were threatened with ruin at critical 
periods of business depression. As a finan- 
cier he stood without a superior in the State; 
as a soldier, he was brave and gallant; as a 
public official, he did his duty with credit 
and honor; as a citizen, he was for his city 
in ail that was good; as a man, he was one 
to love and one whose acquaintance was a 
pleasure and a joy; as a husband and father, 
he was kind, loving and gentle; as a Chris- 
tian and a believer in the faith, he went to 
that reward oft promised to him who doeth 
his Master's work. 

His kindly, generous nature had a great 
attraction for young men, and scarcely a 
youth of the city but enjoyed his acquaint- 
ance. He took an interest in them, furthered 
their plans, gave them wise advice, and as- 



sisted them when business opportunity pre- 
sented. Naturally the young men of the 
city were his friends, and they looked upon 
him as a benefactor. Many a man now 
prosperous owes his start in life and his suc- 
cess to Colonel Jennings. In his youth he 
was a member of the Grace Methodist choir 
and took a great interest in musical affairs, 
assisting in organizing the Harmonic So- 
ciety, of which he was a member until its 
dissolution. A widow (who was Miss Emma 
VanHorn) and four children, Mary,William, 
Fanny, and Harry, mourn the death of one 
who was a fond husband and a loving, in- 
dulgent father. 

Gorgas, William L., cashier of the Har- 
risburg National Bank and secretary and 
treasurer of the Harrisburg Trust Company, 
is worth}' of mention and an extended notice 
along with the solid and able business men 
of the city. The position he holds and the 
aptitude he has displayed for its require- 
ments no less than his personal worth en- 
titles him to be classified with the leaders in 
business. He was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., June 23, 1848. That there were 
men of character preceding him in his an- 
cestral line appears from a record made by 
his father, William R. Gorgas, who was born 
in Lower Allen township, Cumberland 
county, Pa. He was a farmer by occupa- 
tion, and was both prominent and popular, 
taking an active part in public matters and 
especially those of a political character. 
That he was a man of more than ordinary 
intelligence and ability is shown by the fact 
of his repeated elevations to important 
offices. As the candidate of the Democratic- 
party of Cumberland county he was elected 
to both branches of the State Legislature, in 
which he served several terms with honor 
and distinction. He removed to Harrisburg 
in 1877 and there made his residence until 
his death, which occurred December 3, 1892. 
Mr. Gorgas was a member of the Seventh 
Day Baptist church, of Ephrata, Lancaster 
county, Pa. 

William L. Gorgas was educated in the 
common schools and in the Cumberland 
Valley Institute, Mechanicsburg, Pa., and as 
the result of his educational course, was 
qualified for teaching, which occupation he 
followed for several years. Having some 
decided tastes for mechanical pursuits he 
became an apprentice to the machinist's 
trade in the works at Mullen, Cumberland 



420 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



county. But after a time he decided upon 
another and different career, in 1869 accept- 
ing the position of teller in the Second Na- 
tional Bank, of Mechanicsburg, which place 
he filled until 1873, when he was appointed 
clerk in the Harrisburg National Bank. In 
1892 he was elected cashier of the bank in 
which he had so efficiently served as clerk 
and he is still performing the duties of this 
responsible position. When the Harrisburg 
Trust Company was organized in 1893 he 
participated in its organization and was 
elected secretary and treasurer of the com- 
pany. He is also director of the Harrisburg 
Bridge Company and of the Harrisburg 
and Mechanicsburg Electric Railway Com- 
pany, as well as one of the organizers and 
the president of the Capital City Shoe Man- 
ufacturing Company, and is treasurer of the 
Harrisburg City Railway Company, treas- 
urer of the City Hospital and president of 
the Camp Hill Cemetery Company. Mr. 
Gorgas has been somewhat active and prom- 
inent in political matters in connection with 
the Democratic party. In 1890 he was the 
candidate of his party for Congress and al- 
though his opponent, John W. Rife, was a 
popular man, he ran ahead of his ticket 
over two thousand votes, though not quite ' 
enough to secure his election. Mr. Gorgas 
served five years as a member of select coun- 
cil and for three years was the president of 
that body. He is a member of the Blue 
Lodge, Chapter and Commandery of the 
Masonic fraternity and for the past eight 
years has been district deputy grand master 
for Dauphin and a part of Northumberland 
counties, comprising eight lodges. He is 
also a charter member of the Knights of 
Honor. Mr. Gorgas is interested in histor- 
ical matters and holds membership in the 
Dauphin Count}' Historical Society and the 
Pennsylvania German Society. 



Sohn, Daniel W., cashier of Merchants' 
National Bank and treasurer of the Central 
Guarantee Trust and Safe Deposit Com- 
pany, was born in Lancaster county, Pa., 
September 7, 1852; son of Francis S. and 
Mary (Snyder) Sohn. He was reared in 
Lancaster county, and received his educa- 
tion in the public schools. After an appren- 
ticeship of three years and eight months at 
the printer's trade in the office of the Mt. 
Joy Herald, he came to Harrisburg in 1871, 
and was employed in the State printing 
office for about twelve years. On August 



12, 1883, he entered the Farmers' Bank as 
messenger, where he remained until the or- 
ganization of the Merchants' National Bank, 
of which he became the teller, and served 
until July, 1892, when he was elected 
cashier of the bank, and has held the po- 
sition since that date. When the Trust 
Company was organized he became one of 
the stockholders, and has been the treasurer 
of the company since its inception. In his 
political views Mr. Sohn is a Republican. 
He is a member of Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, 
I. 0. 0. F., and of Dauphin Encampment, 
No. 10. Mr. Sohn was married, January 
18, 1890, to Miss Kate J. Robison, daughter 
of John J. Robison, of Lewistown, Pa,, to 
whom has been born one son, Walter R. 
Mr. Sohn is a member of the Westminster 
Presbvterian church. 



Bailey, Edwaud, the son of Charles L. 
and Emma H. Bailey, was born in Harris- 
burg, October 19, 1861. He was educated at 
the Hill school, Pottstown, Pa., Phillips 
Academy, Andover, Mass., and the Sheffield 
Scientific School of Yale College. He grad- 
uated in 1881, returning to take a post-grad- 
uate course in chemistry. In January, 1882, 
he entered business as a clerk in the firm of 
Charles L. Bailey & Co., owners of the Chesa- 
peake Nail Works. In 1886 he was admitted 
as a partner, and in 1889, when the business 
was incorporated under the name of Charles 
L. Bailey & Son, he became the vice-presi- 
dent. In the same year he was elected vice- 
president of the Central Iron Works. He 
continued actively engaged in .the business 
of both companies until 1892, when he was 
elected president of the Harrisburg National 
Bank. Mr. Bailey, as president of this in- 
stitution, was largely instrumental in organ- 
izing the Harrisburg Trust Company and 
became its president. Mr. Bailey has been 
energetic in building up the industries of 
Harrisburg and has taken an active part in 
everything which would tend to improve his 
native place. 

Besides the positions of president of the 
Harrisburg National Bank and Harrisburg 
Trust Company he still retains his old con- 
nection with Charles L. Bailey & Son and 
the Central Iron Works, acting as vice-presi- 
dent of both. He is president of the Har- 
risburg Preserving Company, a partner in the 
insurance firm of Hammond & Bailey, a 
director in the Harrisburg Traction Com- 
pany, East Harrisburg Passenger Railway 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



■121 



Company, Harrisburg City Passenger Rail- 
way Company, Harrisburg Boot and Shoe 
Company, limited, Harrisburg Grocery & Pro- 
duce Company, Union Trust Company of 
Philadelphia and the Cumberland Steel 
Plate Company of Cumberland, Md. Mr. 
Bailey was instrumental in organizing the 
Harrisburg Club, became its second treasurer 
and for a number of years served on its board 
of governors. He is an original member of 
the Inglenook Club of Harrisburg, the Man- 
ufacturers' Club of Philadelphia and the 
American Institute of Mining Engineers. 
In politics Mr. Bailey, while not taking any 
active part, is an enthusiastic Republican. 

In 1889 he married Elizabeth, eldest 
daughter of Dr. George W. Reily. They have 
one daughter. Mr. Bailey and his wife are 
both Presbyterians and members of the Mar- 
ket Square Presbyterian church. 

McCLURE,JoNATHAN,was one of the fi injus- 
tices of the county of Dauphin. He was the 
son of Richard McClure, born about 1745 in 
Paxtang township, Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county. He was one of Joseph Hutchinson's 
pupils, received a good English education, 
and was brought up to mercantile pursuits. 
When the war of the Revolution needed his 
support he became a lieutenant in Capt. John 
Rutherford's company and did valiant ser- 
vice during the New Jersey campaign of 
1776, and that around Philadelphia the year 
following. Toward the close of the war he 
commanded a company of militia raised in 
Paxtang for the defense of the frontiers. He 
was commissioned by the Supreme Execu- 
tive Council a justice of the peace Septem- 
ber 8, 1784, and on the 17th of November 
following one of the judges of the Court of 
Common Pleas. When the county of Dau- 
phin was organized the spring following he 
came to be one of the first judges of the 
courts. He died at Middletown on Wednes- 
day, December 11, 1799, aged about fifty- 
four years. Of the three persons who illu- 
mined the judicial bench one hundred years 
ago, Judge McClure was the most intelli- 
gent. He was one of the men of mark 
of this locality, and it is proper that 
his memory, with those of the other two 
worthies, his colleagues, be preserved. 



Murray, Lindley, son of Robert Murray 
and his wife Mary Lindley, was born in 1745 
on the banks of the Swatara, in Lancaster, 
now Dauphin county, Pa.; died February 



16, 1826, at his residence near York, Eng- 
land. He received a good education, but 
having a dislike to mercantile pursuits, 
studied law, and was admitted to the bar at 
the age of twenty-one. The year after he 
married. His limited practice was tempo- 
rarily interrupted by a visit to England, 
whither his father had preceded him in hope 
of benefitting his health. He returned to 
New York in 1771, and renewed the practice 
of law with marked success ; tiring of it, how- 
ever, when the Revolution broke out and New 
York was occupied by the British army,or hav- 
ing no sympathy with the cause of independ- 
ence, he removed to Islip.on Long Island, and 
entered a mercantile life. We have always 
given Lindley Murray credit for his religious 
principles as having precluded him from 
taking part in the struggle between the Col- 
onies and the mother country, but in a letter 
in our possession, written by William Darby 
to his friend, Mrs. Anna Dixon, the true in- 
centive is, perhaps, given. Mr. Darby was 
well acquainted with the men of his time — 
he was intimate with the patriots of the Rev 
olution, and learned much of the inward his- 
tory of the people, concerning whom, it is to 
be regretted, he did not give his reminis- 
cences. William Darby was born in the same 
neighborhood and was intimate with the 
Dixons and Roans, to the former of whom 
Murray was related, and through them 
learned more of him than biographers choose 
to tell. In the success and greatness of a 
man, we too often lose sight of the grave 
errors into which he may have fallen. But 
we are loath to dispel the bright halo which 
glimmers around the life of the celebrated 
grammarian. Sabine classes him among the 
Loyalists of the Revolution, and Darby, in 
contrasting him with his cousin, Robert 
Dixon, whose blood was the first Pennsylva- 
nia offering to the cause of independence, 
speaks of Murray's taking sides with the 
enemies of his country. This we can easily 
understand. Surrounded by his religious 
friends whose peace principles would not 
allow them to take up arms — although many 
hundreds did, who were subsequently dis- 
owned for it — and in a city occupied by the 
king's troops, he himself says he had little 
faith in the successful resistance of the Colo- 
nies. It was thusihe beceam a Loyalist. His 
father's business and his own thrived, and 
the rule of England was sufficient for him. 
We ventiye the opinion that there were really 
few instances where religious principles made 



422 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



men Tories. Mercenary motives were gen- 
erally at the bottom of it. It is to be regretted 
that Lindley Murray's silent influence should 
have been on the side of British oppression 
and tyranny. At the close of the war he 
had amassed a fortune, and, when peace had 
dawned, he sailed away from the land of his 
nativity and the home of liberty. His at- 
tachment to the home of his fathers, he said, 
''was founded on many pleasing associations. 
In particular, I had strong prepossessions in 
favor of a residence in England, because I 
was ever partial to its political constitution 
and the mildness and wisdom of its general 
laws. . . . On leaving my native country, 
there was not, therefore, any land in which 
I could cast my eyes with so much pleasure, 
nor is there any which could have afforded 
me so much real satisfaction as I have found 
in Great Britain. May its political fabric, 
which has stood the test of ages and long 
attracted the admiration of tbe world, be sup- 
ported and perpetuated by Divine Provi- 
dence." In 1784 he went to England, and, 
after visiting several localities, purchased a 
small estate at Holdgate, about a mile from 
York, upon which be resided until his death. 
Living in ease and retirement, he entered 
upon a literary life whicli proved a success- 
ful one, and has inscribed his name high 
upon fame's portals. In 1787 he published 
a small work entitled " The Power of Relig- 
ion on the Mind," which passed through 
seventeen editions. His next work, and that 
by which he is principally known, was his 
"English Grammar," first published in 1795, 
and such was the unexpected demand for it 
that several editions were published during 
the same year. Following this appeared 
" English Exercises," and a " Key," an 
abridgement of which treatises were published 
in one volume in 1797. His other writings 
are " The English Reader," with an " Intro- 
duction and Sequel," "The English Spelling 
Book," a new edition of his Grammar, " Ex- 
ercises and Key," in two octavo volumes, a 
selection from Home's " Commentary on the 
Psalms," and "The Duty and Benefit of 
Reading the Scriptures." Lindley Murray's 
educational publications were not alone con- 
fined to his mother tongue. He prepared 
two French works, "Introduction au Lecteur 
Francois" and "Lecteur Francois," which 
soon came into general use, were highly com- 
mended, and passed through a large number 
cf editions. His life in England was a busy 
one, as it was an eventful one. No Ameri- 



can who made an European tour failed to visit 
Holdgate. His personal appearance, his un- 
assuming demeanor and his conversational 
powers excited in the minds of all visitors 
great admiration. Lindley Murray married, 
June 22, 1767, Hannah Dobson, died in Eng- 
land and buried by the side of her husband 
at Holdgate. 



Jones, Samuel, one of the first associate 
justices of Dauphin county, was from Bethel 
township, now in Lebanon county, where 
he was born about the year L750. His 
father, William Jones, laid out Jonestown, 
dying in November, 1771, the son coming into 
possession of the greater portion of the estate. 
He was in active service during the struggle 
for independence, and November 8, 1777, was 
appointed by the Supreme Executive Council 
one of the commissioners to collect clothing, 
blankets, etc., for the half-clad army at 
Valley Forge. This service was well per- 
formed. On August 15, 1784, he was ap- 
pointed one of the justices of the peace for 
Lancaster county, and judge of the Court of 
Common Pleas January 3, 1785. He was 
the next oldest in commission when the 
new county of Dauphin was formed. Of 
Judge Jones' subsequent life we have little 
knowledge. It has been stated that he re- 
moved to Pittsburgh toward the close of 
the century, but even that is not certain. 

Dock, William, son of Philip and Eliza- 
beth (Killain) Dock, was born in East Earl 
township, Lancaster county, Pa., February 
3, 1793. In 1800 his parents removed to 
Newville, Cumberland count}', where they 
resided until their death. His early educa- 
tion was limited. At the age of seventeen 
he went to Carlisle, where he was brought 
up to merchandising. In 1813 he removed 
to the Susquehanna opposite Harrisburg, 
where he kept the public ferry one year. 
The next spring he came to Harrisburg. 
In 1814 he took charge of the Harrisburg 
ferry, then controlled by the county of 
Dauphin. In 1816 he was appointed collector 
of tolls, eastern end of Harrisburg bridge, 
which position he filled five years. He en- 
tered the mercantile chandlery trade in 1822, 
which he successfully continued until 1845 
when he entirely relinquished the business. 
In March, 1842, lie was appointed one of the 
associate judges of Dauphin county. In 1849 
he received the nomination by the Democ- 
racy for Congress in the Fourteenth district, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



423 



then composed of Dauphin, Lebanon and 
Schuylkill counties. The Judge made a good 
canvass, but his party was in the minority. 
In 1851 he was chairman of the State con- 
vention which nominated William Bigler 
for governor. He bad repeatedly been a 
delegate to the Lutheran Synod, and in 1856 
appointed a trustee of the Pennsylvania 
College. He served as trustee of the Harris- 
burg Academy twenty years, and was actively 
connected with several business enterprises. 
Judge Dock died at Harrisburg, August 4, 
1868. He married, in 1818, Margaret Gil- 
liard, of Middletown, who died May 30, 
1862, in her sixty-eighth year. They had 
children: William Gilliard, Dr. George, 
Gilliard, and William, of whom Gilliard 
alone survives. 



McKinney, Mordecai, son of Mordecai 
McKinney and Mary Chambers, daughter of 
Col. William Chambers, was born near Car- 
lisle, Cumberland count}'', Pa., in 1796. He 
was educated at Dickinson College, where he 
graduated quite young. He studied law 
under Judge Duncan, of Carlisle, complet- 
ing his instruction at Harrisburg, being ad- 
mitted to the Dauphin county bar at the 
May term, 1817. In 1821 he was appointed 
district attorney of Union county, serving 
three years. In 1824 he was chosen clerk 
to the county commissioners of Dauphin 
county, and October 23, 1827, Governor 
Shulze appointed him one of the associate 
judges of the same county. Subsequently 
Judge McKinney turned his attention to 
the compilation of law books, and published 
" McKinney's Digest," " Our Government," 
"Pennsylvania Tax Laws," and other works 
of professional value. He died at Harris- 
burg on the 17th day of December, 1867, 
the result of injuries received from a street 
car three days previous. Mr. McKinney 
married Rachel Graydon, daughter of Will- 
iam Gravdon, who died at Harrisburg, 
April 12, 1856. The Rev. Dr. Robinson so 
accurately summarizes the characteristics of 
Judge McKinney's noble life that we cannot 
refrain from quoting him largely : " His life 
as a man and a citizen was complete]}' 
transfused by his religion, sanctified and 
elevated by it. He was modest and unob- 
trusive in manners, free from all guile, a 
man of sterling honesty and conscientious- 
ness. He was remarkably free from all taint 
of selfishness and all pride. Spending all 
his years in comparative poverty, no more 



contented, happy, and trusting man walked 
the streets of this city. As a citizen he was 
faithful to all obligations, a friend of all tbat 
was venerable and good, a defender of law, 
and a supporter of all that tended to the 
welfare of society. He was distinguished 
as a philanthropist. There was a nobleness 
about his loyalty to principle, to the cause 
of the poor, the oppressed, and the despised 
that might well command universal admira- 
tion." 



Maginnis, James, was a native of Ireland, 
born about 1780. He was educated at 
Dublin, and at the age of twenty came to 
America, locating in Philadelphia, where he 
began the profession of teaching. In 1807 
or 1808 he was invited to take charge of the 
Harrisburg Academy, but in 1810 relin- 
quished his position there and entered into 
mercantile business with his brother-in-law, 
Fred. W. Leopold. Subsequently, about 
1814, he resumed school teaching, and all 
his energies for a number of years were de- 
voted to that calling. It was during this 
period that he compiled his '' System of 
Bookkeeping" and the " New Arithmetic," 
both published at Harrisburg, which for 
many years was extensively used as text 
books in Central Pennsylvania. In 1821 
Mr. Maginnis was appointed deputy sur- 
veyor for Dauphin county. He had pre- 
viously been surveyor for several State com- 
missions authorized to lay out certain roads, 
as also county boundaries. He studied law 
at Harrisburg and was admitted at the 
March term, 1820. His wife, Ann Brandon, 
a woman of rare accomplishments and 
lovely disposition, to whom he was fondly de- 
voted, dying March 18, 1828, so preyed upon 
his mind that he sank under the affliction, 
and died May 21, 1829. Mr. Maginnis was 
a gentleman of undoubted integrity, an able 
teacher and a good citizen. 



Shoch, Michael, the grandfather of Col. 
Samuel, was a native of Germany, and on 
his emigration to America settled near Phila- 
delphia. He had several children, among 
whom was John, whose birth occurred at the 
paternal home near Philadelphia. He re- 
moved to Harrisburg in 1792 and remained 
there until his death in 1842. He married 
Miss Salome Gilbert, of Philadelphia, and 
their children were: Mary, Sarah, Rebecca, 
Eliza, Cassandra, Samuel, John, Jacob, ami 
one died in child hood. Samuel was born in 



424 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Harrisburg May 28, 1797. His career covers 
some of the most eventful periods in our 
national history, and has been so closely 
identified with local events that it forms an 
inseparable part of them. His early educa- 
tion was commenced at preparatory schools 
before the establishment of the present school 
system, and continued at the Nottingham 
Academy, Cecil county, Md. His further 
education and preparation for professional 
life were the result of personal application 
directed only by himself. As early as 1812 
he was recorder of patents under John Coch- 
ran, secretary of the land office and recorder 
of surveys in the office of Andrew Porter, 
then surveyor general. In September, 1814, 
he joined the Harrisburg artillerists, a com- 
pany formed within twenty-four hours after 
the British had burned the capitol at Wash- 
ington, and was the youngest man in the 
four companies that volunteered from Har- 
risburg on that occasion. The company 
marched to York and thence to Baltimore, 
and remained on duty there until the British 
withdrew and abandoned their contemplated 
attack on that city. 

In May, 1817, he began the study of law 
under Hon. Amos Ellmaker, attorney gen- 
eral, and was admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar in 1820. He was always aggres- 
sive, and as a young lawyer displayed great 
energy and fearlessness in prosecuting what 
he believed to be wrong. He took an active 
part in an unsuccessful attempt to impeach 
Judge Frank, of the Lebanon and Dauphin 
district, for alleged offenses. In 1835 he was 
elected clerk of the House of Representatives 
by a union of the Whig and Anti-Masonic 
members, defeating Francis R. Shunk, the 
Democratic candidate. In 1837 he was sec- 
retary to the convention which gave us the 
Constitution under which Pennsylvania 
lived from 1838 to 1873, and at the adjourn- 
ment of that body was unanimously thanked. 
The Colonel finds special pleasure in recount- 
ing his services with that bod} 7 . 

In 1839 he cast his fortunes with Colum- 
bia and went there to live, having been 
elected cashier of the Columbia Bank and 
Bridge Company. The company had a 
nominal capital of $150,000, but actually 
not more than $80,000 to $100,000, as a 
bridge costing more than $175,000 had been 
swept away by an ice freshet in 1832 and 
the loss had not been wholly made up. The 
capital was afterwards increased first to 
$250,000 and in 1837 to $322,500 with a 



change of title to Columbia Bank. In 1865 
the bank accepted the national bank law 
and became the Columbia National Bank, 
with a capital of $500,000, at which it still 
remains, with a surplus fund of $150,000. He 
has thus maintained official relations with 
the corporation as its cashier and president 
for forty-four years, during a period the 
events of which are matters of local history. 
Colonel Shoch was married, in 1832, to Mrs. 
Hannah Evans, daughter of Amos Slay- 
maker, of Lancaster county, who was the 
leading manager of the line of stages between 
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Her death 
having occurred in March, 1860, he was mar- 
ried a second time, August, 1865, to Miss 
Anna E., daughter of Robert Barber, of Co- 
lumbia, Pa. 

In 1848 Colonel Shoch was appointed aide 
to Gov. William Johnson, which by courtesy 
conferred upon him the title of a colonel, a 
title by which he is better known than by 
his Christian name. In 1860 he was made 
a. member of the State committee of the Re- 
publican party and a delegate to the Na- 
tional Convention at Chicago which nomi- 
nated Abraham Lincoln, the martyr Presi- 
dent. During the war he was foremost in 
deeds of charity and patriotism, and pre- 
sented to the first company formed in Colum- 
bia a beautiful and costly silk flag. He al- 
ways took a warm interest in our public 
schools, and through his active exertions 
and liberal donations the Shoch library, in 
honor of its patron, was established. 

Colonel Shoch also took an active interest 
in local enterprises, and was at one and the 
same time president of the Columbia Gas 
and Water companies, the Old Public 
Ground Company, and the Marietta, Chest- 
nut Hill and Washington Turnpike Road 
companies. He was also treasurer of the 
Reading and Columbia Railroad Company, 
but resigned in 1862, before going abroad on 
a continental tour. He was for ten years 
president of the school board of the borough 
of Columbia, during which period a spacious 
edifice devoted to the use of the public 
schools was erected. He served a term as 
director of the poor of Lancaster county, 
two terms as county auditor, was a trustee of 
the Millersville Normal School, and a direc- 
tor of the Wrightsville, York and Gettys- 
burg railroad. If responsible official posi- 
tions are a measure of public confidence, 
then Colonel Shoch was surely favored by 
his fellow-citizens. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



425 



Pie was always an active worker in the 
Sunday-school cause. In the early part of 
his professional career he was both a teacher 
and superintendent of the Sunday-school of 
the Lutheran church in Harrisburg. His 
zeal for the cause has been re-awakened, and 
his active services as a teacher of a Bible 
class in the Columbia Fifth Street Presby- 
terian Sunday-school, together with the erec- 
tion, furnishing and endowment of their 
beautiful chapel, named " Salome," in honor 
of his mother, attests the sincerity of his mo- 
tives. In 1854, and for several years there- 
after, he maintained at his own expense a 
public night school, employed teachers and 
furnished books, etc., for the benefit of ap- 
prentices and other young persons who 
could not attend school during the day, and 
was happily rewai'ded by finding the school 
well attended. Many of the pupils, since 
grown up, have become prominent and well- 
to-do citizens, who gratefully acknowledge 
the advantages they derived from the enter- 
prise. In politics he has been uniformly and 
radically anti-Democratic, a great admirer of 
Thaddeus Stevens, and is in full accord with 
the Republican administration. His life 
has been an eventful and busy one, and he 
has the consciousness of knowing that he 
has neglected no duty or shirked no respon- 
sibility. Having faithfully performed the 
duties of cashier of the Columbia National 
Bank for a period of thirty-nine years he 
was, in December, 1878, elected its president. 



Pearson, Judge John James, was born 
in Delaware county, Pa., October 25, 1800. 
He was the son of Bevan Pearson and his 
wife Anne Warner, the former of English and 
Welsh decent, the latter of English descent 
exclusively, their ancestors having come 
from the counties of Derbyshire and York- 
shire and from Glamorganshire in Wales. 
They belonged to the Society of Friends and 
were prominent in earty colonial history. 
The first members of the family who came 
to this country were John Blunston, chosen 
by William Penn as one of his council of 
State, and William Warner, who was ap- 
pointed judge by King Charles II. and pre- 
sided over the first court ever held in Penn- 
sylvania, at Upland (Chester), September 13, 
1681. 

In his fifth year John J. Pearson was 
taken with his father's family to Mercer 
county, this State, where he enjoyed the edu- 
cational advantages of the best schools of the 



county, and prosecuted his studies in the 
classics and certain branches of science, but 
not getting a regular college course and 
graduation. His native tastes and talents 
led him to choose the legal profession for his 
occupation, and he was probably influenced 
also by the example of his grandfather, John 
Pearson, a prominent judge. He began his 
preparation for his life work by a course of 
reading and study under Hon. John Banks, 
a lawyer of high standing in Mercer county 
at that time, and subsequently a member of 
Congress and a judge. 

Mr. Pearson was admitted to the Mercer 
county bar in August, 1822, and immediately 
took up his residence at Franklin, Venango 
county, where he began his practice. It was 
the practice of attorneys of that day to travel 
long circuits, and following this custom, Mr. 
Pearson sought and obtained much business 
in the counties of Venango, Mercer, Crawford, 
Warren, Erie, Beaver and Butler. Although 
fully qualified and equipped for a generai 
practice and equally able in all departments 
of professional service, he became most emi- 
nent in the trial of land titles, in which he 
was recognized as the highest authority. 

In the spring of 1830 he removed his 
residence to his former home in Mercer 
county, and continued to travel his large 
curcuit until 1849. During this period 
his time was given almost entirely to his 
profession, the only interruption he permitted 
being his acceptance of the office of congress- 
man from the Beaver-Mercer district, in 
1S35-36, and that of State senator for four 
years, beginning in 1837. While in the 
State Senate he served three years as chair- 
man of the judiciary committee, one of the 
most important and laborious positions in 
that bod} 7 . 

On the 7th of April, 1849, Governor Will- 
iam F. Johnson appointed Mr. Pearson to the 
office of president judge of Twelfth judicial 
district, comprising the counties of Dauphin 
and Lebanon. His appointment was im- 
mediately confirmed by the Senate, and in 
the following summer he changed his resi- 
dence to Harrisburg, where he spent the re- 
mainder of his life. Owing to growing popu- 
lation and consequent increase of State busi- 
ness, the docket of this court had become 
crowded, and business was much in arrears, 
but Judge Pearson's industrious and method- 
ical methods and tireless and patient dili- 
gence soon brought all cases to proper trial. 
The office filled by Judge Pearson became 



426 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



elective under the changed Constitution of 
the State, and its term was made of ten 
years duration. In the autumn of 1851 
Judge Pearson was elected and commissioned 
judge of the same district, and was re-elected 
for a second term in 1861, and for a third 
term in 187 L, and completed these three 
terms of service with his characteristic fidelity 
and ability. His election in every instance 
was by a unanimous vote of the district. 

He decided many questions of great mag- 
nitude and tried man}' noted criminal cases. 
He evolved the principles upon which the 
taxation of corporations by this State are 
now decided, both by the courts of this State 
and of the United States. As a lawyer and 
judge he attained prominence. Two volumes 
of his decisions are published and are univer- 
sally accepted as standard authority on the 
points involved. 

Judge Pearson having reached the age of 
four score, declined to stand for re-election 
in 1881. His letter of declination is a classic 
in its language and sentiment, and showed 
that he was a man as great in his views and 
feelings in the ripeness of age as he had been 
in the prime of his powers. Judge Pearson 
was married, first, on the 12th of October, 
1828, to Ellen, only daughter of Gen. Samuel 
Hayes, of Venango county. She died in Feb- 
ruary, 1840. On July 12, 1842, he married, 
secondly, Mary Harris Briggs, only daughter 
of Joseph and Caroline Briggs, grand-daugh- 
ter of Gen. John Andre Hanna, and great- 
granddaughter of John Harris, the founder 
of Harrisburg. In his personality Judge 
Pearson was attractive and inspiring. Dig- 
nity was never wanting, nor was it ever 
prominent and oppressive. He was genial 
and cordial in social life, always careful and 
considerate to others, and genuine in his 
sympathy with all classes. He could safely 
be named as worthy of the closest imitation 
in character and conduct. His death oc- 
curred May 30, 1888, and was mourned as a 
public bereavement. The memory of his 
greatness and goodness remains and is im- 
perishable. 



Alricks, Hermanus. son of James and 
Martha (Hamilton) Alricks, was born at 
Lost Creek Mill, in Juniata county, in 1804. 
His descent in the paternal line was from 
Jacob Alricks, of Amsterdam, who was a di- 
rector for the Dutch West India Company 
on tho Delaware in 1657, and in the mater- 
nal line granddaughter of John Hamilton 



and Jane Allen, who came to Pennsylvania 
in 1745. In 1814 the family of Mr. Alricks 
removed to Harrisburg and there the son 
grew to man's estate, thereafter one of the 
most respected citizens, receiving his educa- 
tion in the Harrisburg Academy, reading 
law in the office of Thomas Elder, Esq., mar- 
rying a daughter of Rev. William Kerr, who 
was a great-granddaughter of Rev. John 
Elder, of Paxtang. He quickly obtained 
a lucrative business before the courts, be- 
came one of the prominent men at the bar, 
and at his death the senior practitioner in 
Dauphin county. He was averse to hold- 
ing office. The only one of prominence 
held by him was that of deputy attor- 
ney general in 1829, by appointment of 
Hon. Amos Ellmaker, an appointment 
which made a great political uproar at the 
moment and it is said caused the resignation 
of Mr. Ellmaker and of his deputy. He 
frequently served his fellow-citizens in mu- 
nicipal office, was a popular man with them 
and his counsel sought upon all questions of 
importance. In addressing a jury his man- 
ner was quiet, his statement clearly pre- 
sented and his argument logical. His rule 
was to undertake no cause unless his client 
was able to demonstrate the justice of his 
case. His earl}' training in the practice of 
the orphans' and registers' courts soon gave 
him a lucrative business in that branch of 
his profession, where clear, concise exposi- 
tions are of far more weight than the stirring 
elements of the quarter sessions. His per- 
sonal acquaintance was extensive, and his 
taste ran in acquiring the family traditions 
of our earliest settlers. He died at Harris- 
burg, February, 1874. His surviving family 
are: Mary Wilson, who married James Mc- 
Cormick, William Kerr, Hamilton, Clara B. 
and Martha 0. 



Alricks, Hamilton, was born on the 
1st of June, 1806, at Oakland Mills, in 
Lost Creek Vallev, now Juniata county, Pa., 
and died July 16, 1893, at Harrisburg, Pa. 
He was educated at the Harrisburg Academy 
at such a period as those who passed 
through it, from 1816 until 1826, know that 
the whole land was stricken with poverty, 
and collegiate education out of the question. 
Indeed, out of the thirty students of the 
classics at the academy, and among them 
the son of Governor Findlay. but one is re- 
membered who went, or could afford to go, 
to college. With such an education as the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



427 



school could afford, and the stud}' of history 
on top of it, Hamilton Alricks commenced 
reading law with Samuel Douglas, Esq., 
afterwards attorney general, and was ad- 
mitted to practice in 1828. During his pro- 
fessional career of half a century Mr. Alricks 
has been engaged at every term of the court 
in the trial of many of the most important 
civil and criminal cases, and in numerous 
casesin the Supreme Court, as the reports will 
show from 2d Watts to the last volume of 
Outerbridge. In the outset of his practice 
he was engaged as counsel by Mr. Gest, in 
the case of Gest vs. Espy, 2d Watts, 266, 
after Thomas Elder, Esq., a senior member 
of the bar, had abandoned the case, upon a 
verdict being found for defendant. Mr. 
Alricks removed the case to the Supreme 
Court, where he succeeded in reversing the 
judgment. On one occasion, in arguing a 
case in the Supreme Court, and while read- 
ing an authority, he was abruptly inter- 
rupted by Judge Huston, saying, " That is 
not the law." "But," said Mr. Alricks, " I 
am citing from the opinion of the court." 
Judge Huston sharply responded : " I don't 
care ; no Judge ever declared such. to be the 
law." To which Mr. Alricks further re- 
plied: "I have been reading the opinion of 
the court delivered by your Honor." 
" Then," said the Judge, " the reporter took 
me down wrong; let me see the book." 
After examining it for some time, the Judge 
closed it with the remark, " After all, I don't 
think this authority has any application to 
the case in hearing." Proceedings were 
commenced before the Legislature of Penn- 
sylvania, about the year 1845, and testimony 
taken for the purpose of framing articles of 
impeachment against the Hon. William N. 
Irvine, judge of the York and Adams ju- 
dicial district, and the only counsel of the 
respondent was Mr. Alricks, who conducted 
the defense with such skill and ability that 
the committee refused to report articles. 
The then State treasurer and auditor general 
on several occasions selected Mr. Alricks to 
argue cases on the part of the Common- 
wealth involving questions of constitutional 
law. His argument before the Supreme 
Court of the United States in Butler et al., 
late canal commissioners of Pennsylvania, 
vs. the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 
10th Howard, United States Supreme Court 
Reports, 402, was not only well received by 
the profession as a sound exposition of the 



law as to what constitutes a contract within 
the meaning of the Tenth section of the 
First article of the Constitution of the 
United States, prohibiting a State from pass- 
ing any law impairing the obligation of con- 
tracts, but also an able definition of the 
power of the Legislature to create and 
abolish offices, to impose taxes, &c. ; and 
will remain a lasting memorial of his re- 
search, industry, and ability as a lawyer. 
He was one year a member of the Legisla- 
ture ; was a member of the Chicago Con- 
vention in 1864, which nominated General 
McClelland for President, and the series of 
resolutions drawn up and offered in the 
convention by him abounded in patriotic 
sentiments, evincing marked ability. He 
was a member of the Constitutional Conven- 
tion for the revision of the Constitution of 
the State, in 1872-73, that held its sessions 
first in Harrisburg and subsequently in 
Philadelphia, and acted on the committees 
on cities and charters, and on religious 
and charitable corporations and societies. 
Mr. Alricks married. December 28, 1837, 
Caroline Bull, daughter of Rev. Levi Bull, 
D. D., of Chester county, Pa., a son of Col. 
Thomas Bull, of Revolutionary fame. She 
was born August 3, 1811, and died February 
28, 1885, at Harrisburg, Pa. 



Rawn, Charles Coatesworth, the son of 
David Rawn and Elizabeth Cheney, was 
born in the city of Washington in 1801. His 
grandparents, Caspar and Barbara Rahn (as 
the name was originally spelled), were na- 
tives of Germany, one of whose daughters, 
Elizabeth, was mother of Gov. Francis R. 
Shunk. Mr. Rawn's father dying when 
Charles was seven years of age, at Stanton, 
Va., his mother removed her family to her 
farm in Thornbury, Delaware county, Pa. 
He was educated at the West Chester Acad- 
emy, then in charge of that distinguished 
principal, Mr. Gause. In 1826 he came to 
Harrisburg and began the stud}' of law with 
Francis R. Shunk, and was admitted to the 
Dauphin county bar January 18, 1S31. He 
at once commenced his career as a success- 
ful pleader, and up to the time of his death 
was considered one of the leading criminal 
lawyers at the Dauphin county bar. He 
was an earnest antagonist of human slavery, 
and during the days of the Fugitive Slave 
Law was the eloquent pleader in behalf of 
the poor black. He died at Harrisburg on 



428 



BIOGRA PHICA L ENCYVL OPEDIA 



December 18, 1865. Mr. Rawn married 
Frances, daughter of Joseph Clendennin 
and Elizabeth Slough, of Harrisburg. 



Fleming, David, deceased, lawyer, of Har- 
risburg, Pa., was born in Washington county, 
Pa., July 17, 1812; was one of a family of 
eleven children and son of Samuel and Sarah 
(Beckett) Fleming. His paternal grand- 
father was of Scotch ancestry and a native 
of Ireland. He settled in Cecil county, Md., 
from Ireland, afterwards in Chester county, 
Pa., and subsequently at Bald Eagle, from 
which place, with his family, he was driven 
away by the Indians. In the attack one son, 
Samuel, father of our subject, was shot 
through the arm. He afterwards settled in 
Washington county and in 1812 removed to 
Dauphin county, where he spent the re- 
mainder of his active life, a farmer, in West 
Hanover township. The family attended 
and were members of the Presbyterian 
church there under the well-known "clergy- 
man, Rev. James Snodgrass. 

David Fleming spent his boyhood on the 
farm, obtained his early education at the 
common schools and Harrisburg Academy, 
and for several years, alternating with at- 
tending school, he was a successful teacher 
here and in Baltimore county, Md., in the 
latter place teaching classics and the higher 
mathematics. On account of ill health he 
turned his attention to business pursuits and 
became a clerk for Dr. D. N. L. Reutter, a 
contractor on the Baltimore and Port Deposit 
railroad, and after a time took charge for 
him of the shipment of pine timber for the 
Navy yard at Washington, D. C, from North 
Carolina, making several trips by sea and 
greatly improving his health. In 1838 he 
returned to Harrisburg and for several years 
edited a local paper and reported the pro- 
ceedings of the Legislature for four Philadel- 
phia journals, including the United States Ga- 
zette. In 1839 he entered the law office of 
William McClure as a student, was admitted 
to the bar at Harrisburg in November, 1841, 
and was uninterruptedly engaged in the 
practice of his profession until his death, 
January 12, 1890. Mr. Fleming practiced 
in the Supreme Court of the Commonwealth 
since 1843, and the reported decisions of that 
tribunal will show that he was concerned in 
a large proportion of the cases removed from 
Dauphin and other counties, manj' of them 
involving principles of great importance. 



During his late years he attended to bank- 
ruptcy practice in the two Federal courts. 

He closed his labors as newspaper corre- 
spondent in 1847 and was elected chief clerk 
of the Hr use of Representatives and served 
during that session. He was renominated 
by the Whigs in 1848, but a tie in that body 
and the absence of one of his friends gave 
the place to the Democratic candidate by 
one vote. In 1854 he was elected district 
attorney, served three years and declined a 
re-election. In 1863 he was elected to the 
State Senate and served for three years in 
that body, being chairman of the committee 
on the judiciary during his second year and 
speaker in the closing session of his term. 
Outside his profession Mr. Fleming was 
identified in various ways with most of the 
leading interests of Harrisburg. He was 
one of the founders of the Harrisburg Car 
Works in 1853, subsequently obtained its 
charter and succeeded William Calder upon 
his death, in 1880, as president and also a 
member of the board and stockholder of the 
Foundry and Machine Company, which 
originated from the same enterprise ; mem- 
ber of the board and counsel for the Lochiel 
Iron Company and assisted in the organiza- 
tion of its successor, the Lochiel Rolling Mill 
Company. He was counsel and one of the 
directors of the Harrisburg National Bank 
for many years and was one of the incorpor- 
ators in organizing the First National Bank, 
of Harrisburg, for which he was a director 
and counsel. He was a director of the In- 
land Telegraph Company and afterwards of 
the United States Telegraph Company until 
its consolidation with the Western Union 
lines and has been counsel for the latter, as 
well as for the Atlantic and Ohio and the 
Pacific and Atlantic Telegraph Companies, 
the Columbian Oil Company and mairy 
other large corporations in several important 
suits, involving the taxation of these cor- 
porations by the State. He was one of the 
originators of the first Harrisburg Gas Com- 
pany and was president of the People's Gas 
and Gaseous Fuel Company, of Harrisburg. 
Mr. Fleming was one of the founders and 
secretary and treasurer of the Harrisburg 
Cit}' Street railway and was a director. He 
was a trustee for the Home of the Friendless, 
of Harrisburg, and a member of the board of 
trustees of the Market Square Presbyterian 
church, of which he was president for many 
years. He was one of the oldest Sunday- 
school teachers in the city at the time of his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



429 



death and always aided in any enterprise 
tending to better educate the rising genera- 
tion. He was patriotic and rendered sup- 
port to the Union cause by his influence and 
means in the Civil war. Mr. Fleming's law 
partner with whom he was associated since 
1870 is Mr.S. J. M. McCarrell, who read law 
witli him and was admitted to practice in 
1867. 

He married, in 1852, Susan, daughter of 
Charles and Mary (Richmond) Mowry, of 
Harrisburg, who died October 19, 1895. 
Her father published the first newspaper at 
Downingtown, Pa., and after his removal to 
Harrisburg he was appointed one of the 
first canal commissioners in the State, and 
conducted a newspaper in company with 
Gen. Simon Cameron. Their children were 
Charles M., a graduate of Princeton College 
and a member of the Dauphin county bar, 
recently deceased ; Sarah, graduate of Vassal' 
College, married Joshua W. Sharpe, of Cham- 
bersburg, Pa., June 3, 1889 ; David, a grad- 
uate of Princeton College, treasurer of the 
Foundiy and Machine Works ; George R.. 
attornev-at-law, and Mary, born 1869, died 
in 1871. 



Jordan, Francis, son of John and Jane 
Jordan, was born in Bedford county, Pa., 
February 5, 1820. His father was of Eng- 
lish and his mother of Irish parentage, both 
highly esteemed for their intelligence and 
Christian virtues. He was educated by the 
maternal uncle, a Mississippi planter, at 
Augusta College, Kentucky, and at Franklin 
and Marshall College, Pennsylvania. He 
studied law, was admitted to practice, and 
soon after was appointed district attorney of 
Bedford county, and subsequently elected to 
the same position. At the outset his official 
conduct was able, his indictments being so 
accurately drawn that not one of them was 
quashed for informality. In 1850 he became 
the law partner of Alexander King, of Bed- 
ford, subsequently president judge, which re- 
lations continued until 1861. In 1855 Mr. 
Jordan commenced his public career, and 
was elected to the State Senate for a term of 
three years. There he was made chairman 
of the committee charged with drawing a 
bill for the re-adjustment of legislative dis- 
tricts under new apportionment, chairman 
of the judiciary committee, composed of some 
of the best legal talent of the State, and a 
prominent advocate of the bill authorizing the 
sale of the public works. He declined re- 



election, and was soon after appointed one 
of a commission of three to revise the civil 
code, which duty was postponed on account 
of hostilities and finally passed into other 
hands. He was also tendered the appoint- 
ment of attorney general of the State, by the 
governor, which he reluctantly declined by 
reason of the complications attending it. A 
pressing exigency called for a sudden con- 
centration of troops upon the central border 
and at Cumberland, Md., in the fall of 1861. 
Upon the request of Governor Curtin, Mr. 
Jordan accompanied the noted Reserve corps 
as assistant quartermaster, and while thus 
employed, without solicitation or even knowl- 
edge, he was appointed by President Lincoln 
paymaster in the army, and promptly con- 
firmed, and served for two and a-half years 
in Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, Tennessee, 
Mississippi and Louisiana, during the last 
four months of which time being chief pay- 
master of the avvay of the Mississippi, and 
disbursing during his entire term four mil- 
lion dollars under a bond of only twenty 
thousand dollars, rendering a satisfactory ac- 
count. Urged by Governor Curtin he re- 
signed his position, and wasappointed by him 
military agent of the State at Washington, 
where the manifold interests of the State of 
Pennsylvania were ably represented, and 
under his management the claims of our 
soldiers were promptly examined and paid. 
The Legislature, recognizing his efficient 
services, passed an act conferring upon him 
the rank of colonel of infantry. In 18S6 
Colonel Jordan was chosen chairman of the 
Republican State Central Committee, and 
conducted the canvass with great ability and 
discretion, resulting in the election of General 
Geary, who appointed Colonel Jordan secre- 
tary of the Commonwealth, in which capacity 
he served with ability for six years. In 1871, 
pending the agitation for the revision of the 
State Constitution, he wrote and published a 
paper advocating a revision and detailing his 
reasons, which was well received, and on the 
19th of February, 1872, upon invitation, lie 
delivered an address before the Social Science 
Association, of Philadelphia, and afterwards 
in Pittsburgh, advocating thirteen amend- 
ments, covering the most vital defects of the 
old instrument, twelve of which were adopted 
by the State Convention. These papers 
served to establish the reputation of Colonel 
Jordan as a sound lawyer, and elicited strong 
commendation from intelligent men both 
within and without the Commonwealth. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



433 



in Canada, took ill, and died there in 1870. 
They had issue: Marian Bastedo, married 
David Watts, Simon Brua, and Janet, mar- 
ried Tryon Hughes Edwards, a lawyer. 

Simonton, Hon. John Wiggins, was born 
in West Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
in 1830 (the exact register of his birth is 
missing from the record), son of Hon. Will- 
iam Simonton, son of William and Eliza- 
beth W., daughter of Rev. James Snodgrass. 
His preparatory education was received at 
the country school near Hanover Church, 
continued at the Strasburg Academy, Lan- 
caster county, and then at Lafayette Col- 
lege, Easton, graduating at the College of 
New Jersey in 1850. His choice of profes- 
sion was the law, and he was entered as a stu- 
dent with Hon. Hamilton Al ricks, at Har- 
risburg, admitted to practice at the April 
term, 1853. With a very brief interval his 
residence has since been at Harrisburg. 
When the war broke out he was one of the 
first to respond and served as a private in 
company K, First regiment, Pennsylvania 
mihtia, until discharged after the battle of 
Antietam. He married, Jul}' 8, 1856, Sarah 
H., daughter of George Kunkel, merchant, 
and Catharine Ziegler. It may be safely 
said of Judge Simonton that he never 
sought an office, his ambition was to be a 
thorough lawyer, and as such win success, 
and before office sought him he was con- 
sidered a safe counselor as well as a capable 
one. He was chosen district attorney in 
1866. As soon as another opportunity pre- 
sented itself to honor him with a higher sta- 
tion, his fellow-citizens chose him without 
serious opposition, in 1881, president judge 
of the Twelfth Judicial District of Pennsyl- 
vania, to succeed Judge Pearson, and again 
re-elected in 1891 for the term of ten years. 
Every opinion handed down since he has 
held this important position has shown an 
intimate knowledge of the laws of his native 
State, of his literary ability, acute percep- 
tion of such facts as are necessary in consid- 
ering cases, and in nearly every instance 
have been sustained by the higher court. 



Mumma, Hon. David, son of David and 
Esther Mumma, was born on the old Mumma 
homestead in Susquehanna township, Dau- 
phin county, July 28, 1816. \ He was 
brought up as other farmers' sons, knowing 
hard work, long hours and the drudgery 
that every farmer boy experiences. Adjoin- 
31 



ing the Mumma farm was the home of the 
famous Revolutionary soldier, Col. Edward 
Crouch, now owned by Col. John Motter, 
and known as "Walnut Hill." Across the 
hills toward Middletown, one mile south, was 
another historic land mark, "Tinian," the 
home of Col. James Burd, one of the most dis- 
tinguished soldiers and pioneers of Central 
Pennsylvania. Young Mumma early em- 
bibed the love for the memory for those 
brave men, and being surrounded by evi- 
dences of what they had accomplished un- 
der most trying difficulties, he resolved to 
make his mark in the future. He attended 
the private schools until the adoption of the 
free school system, when he studied under 
such teachers as the conditions of the neigh- 
borhood could afford. Compared with the 
advantages now enjoyed, the boy or girl of 
that day desirous of getting an education 
encountered difficulties that few of the pres- 
ent age would dare contend with. His 
father opposed his desire for learning, deny- 
ing him means of study, but young Mumma 
was not to be denied his thirst for knowl- 
edge. He hoarded every penny with which 
he purchased his much cherished treasures, 
the contents of which he devoured most 
eagerly, and the influence of which largely 
determined his after life. He engaged in 
business pursuits which he followed for a 
livelihood, ever keeping in view the star of 
his young heart's ambition. Having re- 
solved to study law, he entered himself as a 
student with the elder James McCormick, at 
that time one of the leaders of the bar of 
Dauphin county. He was admitted to prac- 
tice April 26, 1853. He soon acquired a 
standing among the many able attorneys, 
whose ability, eloquence and personal mag- 
netism have made the bar of Dauphin world 
famous. Mr. Mumma at once took more 
than ordinary interest in the building up of 
Harrisburg. He had confidence in its future 
and willingly and readily embarked in 
every enterprise that was legitimate or 
worth} 7 the interest required to make it a 
success. In 1870 when Dauphin and Leba- 
non counties composed one Senatorial dis- 
trict, Mr. Mumma was elected senator on the 
Republican ticket by an overwhelming ma- 
jority, serving his full time with distin- 
guished honor and for the welfare of his 
constituents. He was a delegate to the 
National Convention that nominated Abra- 
ham Lincoln, and was national delegate on 
several other occasions. Major Mumma's 



434 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



influence with a jury was something re- 
markable, being plain in speech and man- 
ner, and possessing a fund of humor that 
was always applied at the right time and 
place, he was enabled to sway, move and 
mold a verdict almost ad libitum. His 
knowledge of both client and opponents, 
their standing socially, morally and finan- 
cially, made him a power when arrayed for 
or against. No man knew his fellow-citizens 
better nor understood their weakness for 
flattery. He could judge in a moment the 
tenderest spot in the heart of each man ; 
could place his finger on the juror who may 
have suffered the same imposition which his 
client was then undergoing, and gathering 
and concentrating these mighty influences 
together would make one grand charge, 
down upon the consciences of the men in the 
box, and carry off the wreath of victory. 
The effect of Major Mumma's speeches upon 
the minds and feelings was always com- 
mensurate with the object to be obtained ; 
when desiring to convince, he talked plain 
words that any ordinary man could easily 
understand, was calm and logical, no man 
more so ; but when he set his head to enlist 
the sympathy of the jury he gave vent to 
his imagination and was wonderfully elo- 
quent. He seemed to comprehend the 
character of ever}' man and was an adept at 
selecting a jury. 

The mind is said to be composed of three 
great attributes : imagination, memory and 
judgment. This combination is rarely 
found in any man, but when it is that man 
is great intellectually. In his long legal 
career Major Mumma was full of courtesy 
toward his opponent or rival at the bar. He 
was also brave, kind and generous, affable 
and affectionate, devoted to his family and 
his friends. Easy of approach, every boy 
and girl of Dauphin county knew him and 
honored him. He had a smile and cheery 
greeting that was never mistaken for other 
than what it was meant, viz: a plain, manly 
and honorable cordiality that indicated the 
man. In his later life he relapsed his grip 
on the plodding labor of a lawyer's life, 
dropped many or all of the cares that 
weighed upon him in his younger days, and 
in the companionship of his beloved wife, 
determined to go quietly down the twilight 
pathway to the gates of the unknown be- 
yond. When speaking of his physical de- 
cline, and the discouraging prospects for the 
future, he said to his family : " I am satisfied 



with what is being done. I am not afraid 
to face death, but hope I shall retain my 
faculties and know you all until it is over." 
Few men looked upon the transition from 
this life into that unknown borne with the 
same logical reasoning and fixed assurance 
and belief. Brought up under the influence 
of Christian parents, his early life was im- 
pressed with the beauties, the goodness and 
moral advantages of Protestant teachings. 
He died June 20, 1893, and his widow sur- 
vives. He married Lydia Detwiler, daugh- 
ter of David and Susan Detwiler, of Mid- 
dletown, Pa., February 22, 1843. His family 
consists of three children: Susan, wife of 
J. M. Major, of Harrisburg ; Ellis L., pro- 
prietor of the Morning Call, Harrisburg, and 
David D. 



Lawrence, William Caldwell Ander- 
son, lawyer,, son of Joseph and Maria 
(Bucher) Lawrence, was born May 18, 1832, 
in Washington count} 7 , Pa. His grand- 
father, John Lawrence, of English birth, 
emigrated to America at an early day, and 
settled near Huuterstown, Adams county, 
Pa. There he married Sarah Moffet. by 
whom he had ten children. John Lawrence 
died about 1786, and three years afterwards 
his widow removed with her family to 
Washington county, and settled on a farm 
lying on the headwaters of Pigeon creek. 
One of the sons of John Lawrence, John, 
settled at Beaver, Pa.; twice represented the 
county in the Legislature, subsequently re- 
moving to Delaware county, where he died. 
Samuel followed his brother to Beaver 
county, and located upon a farm. He was 
nine years prothonotary of the county, and 
twice elected to the State Assembly. He 
died about 1828. Joseph Lawrence, the 
youngest of the family, remained in Wash- 
ington county. In 1818 he was chosen to 
the Legislature, and served continuously 
until 1826, being speaker of the House dur- 
ing the sessions of 1820 and 1822. In 1826 
he was elected to Congress; in 1834 and 

1835 returned to the Legislature, and in 

1836 elected State treasurer. In 1838 he 
was a candidate for Congress, defeated by 
seventeen votes, but elected in 1840. He 
died in Washington, D. C, April 7, 1842. 
He was twice married. By his first wife, 
Rebecca Van Eman, he had four children : 
Joseph, George V., Sarah and Samuel. By 
his second wife, Sarah Bucher, who died in 
1861, he had five children : John J., James 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



435 



K., William C. A., Samuel and Susan. 
William Caldwell Anderson Lawrence was 
educated at Washington College, where he 
graduated in 1850. He came to Harrisburg 
and began the study of law with John C. 
Kunkel. He was admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar August 31, 1853, and entered 
upon the practice of his profession at Har- 
risburg as law partner with Mr. Kunkel. 
He was elected to the Legislature in 1857, 
1858 and 1859, and was speaker of the 
House of Representatives, sessions of 1859 
and 1860. He died at Harrisburg, April 21, 
1860. 



Hall, Louis Williams, son of William 
Maclay Hall, whose mother was a daughter 
of Hon. William Maclay, first United States 
senator from Pennsylvania, was born July 
4, 1833, at Allegheny, Pa. He received a 
good education ; studied law, and was ad- 
mitted to the bar in 1854. He was soon 
after appointed solicitor for the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company at Altoona. That road 
was just opened over the Allegheny moun- 
tains, and Altoona was the location of the 
chief offices of the transportation of the com- 
pany. Herman J. Lombaert was general 
superintendent with all the powers of the 
now general manager. The office of the 
chief engineer was also at that point, and 
the location was being made there for the 
principal shops of the company. It being 
the headquarters of these offices, the position 
of solicitor there was an important and deli- 
cate one, and the attorney had many ques- 
tions before him of immense importance to 
the company and its interests. Mr. Hall's 
practice soon became large and lucrative, 
not only in Blair, but the contiguous coun- 
ties. In 1859, when little more than 
eligible, he was elected to the State Senate 
as the Republican candidate from the strong 
Democratic district of Cambria, Blair and 
Clearfield counties. He was appointed 
chairman of the judiciary committee on his 
first advent in the Senate, of a body com- 
posed of such legal minds as Penny, of Alle- 
gheny ; Clymer, of Berks ; Ketchum, of Lu- 
zerne ; Welsh, of York ; Palmer, of Schuyl- 
kill ; Finney, of Crawford ; McClure, of 
Franklin, and others prominent in the pro- 
fession of the State. The war of the Rebel- 
lion breaking out, Governor Curtin called an 
extra session of the Assembly, in April, 
1861, when Mr. Hall was chosen speaker of 
the Senate. It was at that extra session that 



the famous three-million-dollar-loan bill to 
arm the State, and other important war 
measures were passed. Mr. Hall was again 
chosen speaker at the beginning of the regu- 
lar session in January, 1862. He was elected 
for a new term, and for another district, in 
which Blair county was placed in October, 
1864, running largely ahead of his ticket. 
He was again chosen speaker of the Senate 
at the end of the session of 1866, and also at 
the commencement of the regular session of 
1867, having been chosen three times pre- 
siding officer of that body, an honor never 
before accorded to any one. At the close of 
•his term he declined a re-nomination, and 
since then has devoted himself exclusively 
to the practice of his profession. Having 
been appointed solicitor and counsel of the 
Pennsylvania railroad, at Harrisburg, on 
the 1st of October, 1868, he took up his resi- 
dence in that city. To-day he occupies the 
same position, being connected with them 
for over thirty years. He is yet in the 
mental vigor and prime of life, although 
sixty years of age, and has probably been 
connected with as many matters of impor- 
tance in his profession as any man of his 
age. Among the numerous leading cases in 
the courts he has argued within the last few 
years may be mentioned those of the "Com- 
monwealth vs. Credit Mobilier of America," 
twice tried before Judge Pearson, and twice 
in the Supreme Court; " Commonwealth vs. 
George 0. Evans," the claim of the State for 
a very large amount ; Mr. Evans being de- 
fended by Mr. Hall and the late Judge 
Black ; "' The Commonwealth vs. Pennsyl- 
vania Canal Company," being an attempt of 
the State by statute to compel the canal 
company to alter their dams, feeders and 
works, without compensation, so as to allow 
the passage of fish, the case involved prob- 
ably half a million of dollars, and was de- 
cided by the Supreme Court in favor of the 
canal company ; " James Freeland vs. Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company," an attempt to 
hold the company responsible for consequen- 
tial damages caused by raising the great 
Clark's Ferry dam ; decided by the Supreme 
Court in favor of the raih-oad company. Mr. 
Hall married, November 26, 1867, Eliza War- 
ford. They have two sons and two daughters. 

Muench, Robert L., was a son of the late 
Charles F. Muench. He was born in Har- 
risburg, February 9, 1831. His education 
was begun in the schools of Harrisburg, 



436 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



which he left to enter the printing office and 
bindery of his father, where he remained for 
a short time and then went to Tennant 
School, Hartsville, Bucks county, to prepare 
for Yale College, which he entered in 1852 in 
the class of 1856. He was a thorough Ger- 
man, Latin and French scholar, having a 
taste for the latter language, in which he be- 
came proficient in reading and graceful in 
speech. 

He began the study of law with R. A. 
Lamberton and was on his motion admitted 
to the bar of Dauphin county January 22, 
1856. His progress at the bar illustrated the 
energy of the man. Ardent and zealous in- 
his profession and honestly devoted to his 
clients he rose gradually but surely until he 
secured a large practice and attained position 
ranking him among the ablest of the at- 
torneys with whom he practiced. 

He was a prominent Mason of high stand- 
ing, past master of Perseverance Lodge, No. 
21, and many years district deputy grand 
master for this district. 

He was the first president of select council 
when the old council was divided into two 
branches — select and common. His ability 
as a presiding officer was displayed to great 
advantage, and to his sagacity may be attri- 
buted legislation which proved highly bene- 
ficial to the city, with the defeat, too, of 
measures full of mischief. But he was not 
an office seeker, though an ardent politician 
of the Jacksonian school of Democrats. 
Forced into the field as a Democratic candi- 
date for district attorney against J. M. Wiest- 
ling, one of the strongest men in the Repub- 
lican jjarty, Mr. Muench ran ahead of his 
ticket and reduced the Republican majority 
lower than it had been since the organization 
of the part}' up to that time. 

Robert Leyburn Muench Avas from early 
boyhood, in his youth, his young manhood 
and the prime of life one of the best known 
citizens of Harrisburg and Dauphin county. 
By organization fitted for active pursuits, 
whatever he did in the printing office, the 
bookbindery, at school, as a teacher, a colle- 
giate, a student of law and a practitioner, 
was with a spirit of resistless force. His men- 
tal endowments were of a high order, and 
personally he had qualities which com- 
manded both admiration and respect. Where 
he placed his friendship, it was held with 
hooks of steel, and where his enmity was 
provoked it remained until satisfied. Open- 
hearted and frank of speech, courageous, 



generous and faithful, the man had no con- 
cealments to make in any direction and was 
of the nature that delights in the daylight of 
life, wherein what he said and did he could 
be seen and heard of all men. Such a man 
never lost a friend once made, and had the 
faculty of unmaking enemies who were cap- 
able of listening to reason. He was of use 
in his daj' and generation, a good citizen, a 
faithful husband, affectionate father, gener- 
ous brother and a dutiful son. He leaves a 
widow and three daughters, the eldest of 
whom is the wife of Martin E. Hershey. He 
was the last male descendant of Capt. Charles 
F. Muench, a sister, Mrs. W. H. Snyder, be- 
ing the only survivor. 

The Dauphin County Bar Association met 
in the court room at four o'clock on Satur- 
day afternoon, April 4, 1885. H. Murray 
Gray don, Esq., was called to the chair and 
J. M. Lamberton chosen secretary. A com- 
mittee of five, consisting of Messrs. J. M. 
Wiestling, Francis Jordan, W. B. Lamber- 
ton, F. M. Ott and George Kunkel, was ap- 
pointed to draft resolutions expressive of the 
sentiments of the meeting relative to the 
death of Robert L. Muench, late a member 
of the association. The following is their 
report, which was unanimously adopted : 

The members of the Dauphin County Bar, 
convened to testify to the affectionate regard 
which the}' ever cherished for their departed 
friend and brother, Robert L. Muench, Esq.. 
to give fitting expression to their sincere 
sorrow for his death, and to pay a just and 
friendby tribute to his memory, do resolve: 

First. That by his death the Bar has lost 
a member whose devotion to his profession 
and long experience in its active practice 
had won for him a prominence and reputa- 
tion as a lawyer, distinguished for his in- 
dustrious and painstaking preparation of 
his cases, fidelity to his clients in counsel 
and in trial, and conscientious r'egard for 
the responsibilities involved. 

Second. That in all our intercourse with 
him, both in the practice of our pi'ofession 
and in social life, we always found him to 
be true to his honor, faithful to his friend- 
ships, and mindful of all the obligations and 
courtesies of both relations. His genial na- 
ture and cheerful disposition, exhibited in 
genuine humor and witty repartee, made 
his companionship and conversation ever 
agreeable and attractive. 

Third. That in the world of literature Mr. 
Muench was proficient, and for his general 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY. 



437 



knowledge of choice standard authors we 
justly render our tribute to his memory. 

Fourth. As a native and life-long citizen 
of this community he was esteemed for his 
integrity, generosity, honesty of purpose and 
general good qualities. 

Fifth. While lamenting his death we yet 
recognize it as the dispensation of an All- 
wise Providence, who cannot err, and is too 
beneficent to inflict but for good ; and to his 
wise decree we submissively and reveren- 
tially bow, accepting the death of our late 
associate as another evidence of man's mor- 
tality and life's uncertainty. It is to all of 
us a solemn admonition to be always ready 
for that supreme summons, which, with 
awful certainty, will call us all from time 
into eternity. 

Sixth. That to the sorrowing household 
of our deceased brother — bereft by this their 
great affliction of a loving husband and 
father — to his distressed widow and chil- 
dren, we extend our most profound and sin- 
cere sympathy and regard. With unques- 
tioning confidence we commend them to 
him who is the husband to the widow, the 
father to the fatherless. 

Seventh. That this Bar will attend the 
funeral in a body, and that a copy of these 
resolutions be presented to his family, and 
that the court be requested to order that 
these proceedings be entered at length upon 
the proceedings of the court. 

Hon. A. J. Herr addressed the meeting as 
follows: 

Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Bar: 
Robert L. Muench was my friend and as 
such I mourn his death. I come to bury 
him, not to praise him. For the garland 
of friendship which we lay on his grave 
should have no artificial flower in it. Time 
shall not wither its freshness nor steal away 
its perfume so long as memory shall hold 
within its golden cells the impress of his de- 
votion and attachment to his friends. As a 
friend rather than as a lawyer let him be 
remembered ; for the friend whose adoption 
has been tried should be grappled to your 
soul with hooks of steel. And if there was 
one trait in his character more pronounced 
than another, it was his steady, sturdy, ro- 
bust friendship. When he professed it you 
might be sure that its roots entwined them- 
selves about the very fibres of his heart and, 
like the oak fixed in its native soil, no storm 
of detraction could overthrow it. Let that 
be his epitaph, for it outsounds the clarion 



voice of fame! With him the laws of friend- 
ship were great, austere, eternal, of one web 
with the laws of nature and of morals. His 
friendship was a solemn league and cove- 
nant against time and want and slander and 
persecution. It was a bond which death 
could not destroy, only sanctify, while his 
instincts taught him that the man who was 
worthy of that title was crowned above his 
fellows and bore the signet seal of uncom- 
mon royalty. This nature was intense, 
not being but strong, liking and dis- 
liking with no negative force, but with 
the energy of his own positive char- 
acter. Bold, blunt and brave when he 
thought he was right, he was so open 
and straightforward that from the neces- 
sity of his moral constitution he hated 
hypocrisy and scorned sham, never fawning 
upon power or cringing before wealth, be- 
cause the hinges of his knees were not oily 
enough to bend in sycophancy. There was 
no difficulty in discovering on which side 
of the question he was, for he would pro- 
claim himself without stopping to count the 
cost or waiting to see whether his views were 
popular. What he felt was the right of the 
matter that he would maintain and contend 
for, and his word, when given, was as sacred 
as his oath. He wore his heart upon his 
sleeve and with the simplicity of a child he 
would let you read his inmost thoughts with 
no wish even to disguise them. These rare 
and sterling traits of character won for him 
and retained for him through life many 
true friends, and now, as we pay the last 
tribute of respect and esteem to him, is there 
one here who cannot bear testimony, tender 
and affectionate testimony, that he was 
greatly loved as a staunch friend, a good 
citizen and an honest man? In his pro- 
fessional career he never aspired to be a 
leader. He was modest in the judgment he 
passed upon himself and never overrated 
his own" acquirements. No unseemly vanity 
prevented him from seeking advice or so- 
liciting counsel, and when doubt and per- 
plexity encumbered his way he would not 
hesitate to dismiss the natural pride of in- 
tellect and lay under contribution the 
larger knowledge of some of his fellow-mem- 
bers, for he was always sensitively anxious 
to leave nothing undone to protect, defend 
and secure the rights of his clients. He was 
a laborious worker in gathering his facts 
and always came to the trial of the cause 
with a thorough mastery of its history. In 



438 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the presentation of his views he was plain, 
logical, exact, with no rhetorical embellish- 
ment or ornamentation of language, aiming 
to convince the reason of the jury rather 
than to excite their imagination. If he was 
not a brilliant orator, he was an earnest ad- 
vocate at least, and kept faithful watch and 
word of his client's interests. He possessed 
a fine literary taste and a discriminating 
appreciation of art. While he was more or 
less familiar with the ancient classics, Eng- 
lish literature had special charms for him 
and he took peculiar delight in wandering 
through its rich and varied domain, gather- 
ing here and there apt quotations and beau- 
tiful thoughts from Shakespeare, Dryden, 
Milton and other worthies with which he 
would adorn his conversation in the inti- 
mate intercourse of his friends and com- 
panions. But the finger of God touched 
him and he sleeps in that quiet haven to 
which we are all drifting — drifting like 
autumn leaves on the bosom of a flood. 
Before man his days are as grass. As a 
flower of the field, as he flourisheth ; the 
wind passeth over it and it is gone, and the 
place thereof shall know it no more! Never 
again will his voice resound within these 
walls. Never again will his well-known 
form pass in and out among us, tall, stately 
and dignified. He is gone! and silence 
comes to give us praise! What does it all 
mean ? What do our eager struggles, our 
petty rivalries, our little jealousies, our hon- 
orable ambition or our lawful contests for 
fame or wealth or distinction — what do all 
these end in? Silence — darkness — six feet 
of mother earth and that is all. Yes! that 
is all, unless one be wise and learn the 
lesson, each for himself, that this earth is 
but a nursery from which we may be trans- 
planted to a garden where immorality shall 
fill up and round out every faculty of the 
soul so as to be in perfect and everlasting 
harmony with the Divine will. 

At the same meeting Mr. F. K. Boas 
spoke as follows: "I have known our 
friend and brother, Robert L. Muench, from 
his childhood until his death yesterday. I was 
his near neighbor for upwards of twenty 
years. We were close friends. I rejoice in 
the permission given me in saying that he 
was an affectionate son, husband and father, ' 
and in all the elements that make a gentle- 
man the peer of either of us. In the pro- 
fession I found him courteous and kind. 
While true as steel to the interests of his 



client, he ever regarded the rights of others. 
He has gone with the great majority to the 
untried realities of another and I trust a 
better world, leaving the priceless legacy of 
a blameless life and untarnished reputation 
to those who were near and dear to him." 

H. Murray Gra3 T don, Esq., followed Mr. 
Boas with an impressive and touching ad- 
dress, after which the meeting adjourned. 

Snodgrass, Robert, attorney-at-law, Har- 
risburg, was born in East Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., October 12, 1836. He 
is a son of Benjamin and Ann Snodgrass. 
His grandfather was Rev. James Snodgrass, 
who was pastor of the old Hanover church 
for many years. In 1843 Mr. and Mrs. 
Benjamin Snodgrass removed to Shippens- 
burg, Cumberland county, Pa. Robert re- 
ceived his primary education there, and was 
prepared for college at Milnwood Academy, 
Shade Gap, Huntingdon county, Pa. He 
entered Lafayette College, Easton, Pa., in 
September, 1854, was admitted to the sopho- 
more class, and was graduated with honor 
in the class of 1857. 

Mr. Snodgrass taught in private families 
in Maryland and Virginia for two years. In 
the spring of 1859 he removed to Moorefield, 
Va., now West Virginia. In the fall of 1860 
he was appointed deputy clerk of the county 
court of Hardy county, which position he 
filled until the spring of 1862. In the mean- 
time he read law under the direction of J. 
W. F. Allen, then judge of the Circuit Court 
of Hardy county. In consequence of the 
war of the Rebellion he found it impossible 
for him to remain in the South. He came 
to Harrisburg in April, 1862, and immedi- 
ately entered as student at law with J. W. 
Simonton, now judge. He was admitted to 
the bar of Dauphin county, May 5, 1863, 
and has since been continuously in active 
practice. 

Robert Snodgrass was United States com- 
missioner from January, 1867, to November, 
1870; prothonotary of the Supreme Court of 
Pennsylvania, for the Middle district, from 
November, 1870, to January, 1882; and 
deputy attorney general a from that date to 
May, 1887. Since that time he has been en- 
gaged exclusively in the practice of law. 

Mr. Snodgrass was made president of the 
Board of Trade of Harrisburg in February, 
1893. He is one of the organizers, and the 
president of the Hickok Manufacturing Com- 
pany, and has served as attorney of the cor- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



439 



poration. He is a member of the Masonic 
order. In politics he is a Republican. He 
is president of the board of trustees of the 
Pine Street Presbyterian church. 



Stranahan, James A., attorney-at-law, 
was born in Philadelphia, March 7, 1839. 
He is a son of Andrew and Eliza (Holliday) 
Stranahan, both natives of county Down, 
Ireland, of Scotch-Irish ancestry. They 
came to America about 1820 and remained 
in Philadelphia until 1851, when they re- 
moved to Mercer county, where they made 
their home. They were engaged in agricul- 
tural pursuits, and were honored residents 
of the county. The father died in 1869, 
aged eighty years ; the mother still lives, at 
the advanced age of ninety-six years, resid- 
ing in Mercer county. They were married 
iu Philadelphia, and to them were born 
four children, three sons and a daughter. 
The daughter died in infancy. The sons 
are: Andrew, James A. and Robert. An- 
drew and Robert still live on the old home- 
stead in Mercer county. James A. received 
his primary education in the public schools 
of Philadelphia. When twelve years old he 
removed with his parents to Mercer county, 
where he completed his education in the 
township common schools, Mercer Union 
School and Westminster College, at New 
Wilmington, Pa., and was graduated at the ' 
latter institution. He began the study of 
law with Hon. John Trunkey, late justice 
of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, and 
was admitted to the Mercer county bar in 
1864, where he practiced until 1891, when 
he was appointed deputy attorney general 
by Governor Pattison, and filled this office 
for four years with much credit to himself 
and the entire State. While acting as dep- 
uty attorney general that department, from 
1891 to 1895, was engaged in the settlement 
of complicated legal questions arising under 
the revenue laws of the Commonwealth, and 
he had to contend with the leading lawyers 
of the State, who were counsel for the cor- 
porations. Since his retirement from active 
practice at the Dauphin county bar- he has 
been consulted in many prominent cases. 
The most noted was the mandamus proceed- 
ings against the secretary of the Common- 
wealth to test the constitutionality of the act 
of Assembly of 1895, as applied to the ques- 
tion of limited voting — whether a voter 
could be restricted to voting for six judges 
when seven were to be elected to the Supe- 



rior Court. Although the decision was ad- 
verse to him in the court below he carried 
the case to the Supreme Court and had the 
decision of the lower court reversed, and 
thus established the principal of limited 
voting under the Constitution in Pennsyl- 
vania. From 1851 to 1864 he was engaged 
in work on his father's farm, attending 
school in the winter months. In 1864 he 
enlisted as a private in company H, Second 
battalion, six months' Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, and was mustered in as second lieu- 
tenant, and occupied the position of post ad- 
jutant at Cumberland, Md., during his term 
of service under Maj. Herman Kretz, now 
superintendent of the mint at Philadelphia, 
who was provost marshal at Cumberland at 
that time. He was mustered out at the ex- 
piration of his term of service, and finally 
discharged at Pittsburgh, Pa. He returned 
to Mercer and resumed the study of law. 
He was elected to the Legislature in 1873, 
and represented Mercer county one term. 
He was chairman of the Democratic State 
Central Committee in 1894. In political 
views he is a Democrat, and an active and 
influential worker in the party. Mr. Strana- 
han has been twice married. His first wife 
was Miss Mary E. Robinson, to whom he 
was married in Mercer county May 14, 1865. 
She was a daughter of Rev. William M. 
Robinson, pastor of the Second Presbyterian 
church of Mercer, and Eliza (Robinson") Rob- 
inson. To them was born one child, Charles, 
who died in infancy. Mrs. Stranahan died 
March 31, 1868. In his second marriage, 
which took place at Hartstown, Crawford 
county, Pa., February 25, 1874, he was united 
to Miss Elizabeth Ewing, daughter of Benoni 
and Mary Ewing, a native of Crawford 
county, Pa. They have one child, Mary E., 
born May 6, 1876. Mr. Stranahan, wife and 
daughter are members of the Second Pres- 
byterian church of Mercer. Mr. Stranahan 
conducts a general law practice in Harris- 
burg and enjoys a large, growing and lucra- 
tive business. 



McCarrell, Samuel J. M., attorney-at- 
law, was born in Buffalo township, Wash- 
ington county, Pa. When a lad he attended 
the common schools during the winter 
months, and worked on a farm in summer 
time. When old enough he went to the 
neighboring town of Claysville, to clerk in 
his uncle's store. While thus engaged, he 
prepared himself for a course in college, and 



440 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



in 1860 entered Washington College, from 
which institution he was graduated in 1864 
as first honor man of his class. The follow- 
ing nine months he taught school as as- 
sistant principal of Linsley Institute, at 
Wheeling, W. Va. Being an ambitious 
young man, he spent his spare hours read- 
ing law with a Mr. McKennan, of Wheeling. 
In August, of 1865, Mr. McCarrell moved to 
Harrisburg, where he completed his study 
of law with Hon. David Fleming. He was 
admitted to practice at the Dauphin county 
bar in November, 1866, and shortly there- 
after entered into partnership with his pre- 
ceptor under the firm name of Fleming & 
McCarrell. At the death of Mr. Fleming, 
the vast practice was continued by Mr. Mc^ 
Carrell, who to-day enjoys the lucrative re- 
sults of his earnest labors. As a politician 
he ranks high, having served the Republi- 
can party in various ways. For two terms, 
between the years 1881-1887, he ably dis- 
charged the onerous duties of district attor- 
ney for Dauphin county. In 1888 he was 
elected and served as a delegate to the .Re- 
publican National Convention which nomi- 
nated Benjamin Harrison for President of 
the United States. Mr. McCarrell was nomi- 
nated by acclamation for State senator in 
1892, and was elected by an unusually large 
majority. During his entire term he has 
figured on most of the important com- 
mittees, and all of his speeches have been 
accorded the deference due to the utterances 
of a gentleman of highest attainments and 
renown. 



burg. Their children were: Clara P. and B- 
Frank. In politics Mr. Young was a Repub- 
lican, and attended the Zion Lutheran 
church, in which he was formerly a deacon. 



Young, John Wesley, lawyer, son of 
Josiah Carothers and Mary (Kintef) Young, 
was born October 11, 1846, at Rockville, 
Dauphin count}', Pa. He was educated in 
the public schools of Harrisburg, read law 
in the office of David Fleming, and was ad- 
mitted to the Dauphin county bar January 
21, 1868. From 1871 to 1874 he was clerk 
to the county commissioners, and from 1877 
to 1883 solicitor of the county of Dauphin. 
He was chosen as a member of the board of 
school control in 1876; was president of that 
body from 1877 to 1882 continuously, and 
in 1886 was elected secretary of the same. 
He was a member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 
64, F. & A. M., of Harrisburg, in which he 
was past master, and also a member of Lodge 
No. 68, I. 0. 0. F. He was married, No- 
vember 1, 1871, to Miss Carrie M. Peters, 
daughter of Benjamin S. Peters, of Harris- 



Hargest, Thomas S., attorney-at-law, was 
born in Baltimore county, Md., November 
24, 1846, son of William E. and Rachel 
(Taylor) Hargest, both natives of Maryland, 
and of English ancestry. His boyhood 
days were spent in Baltimore city and Bal- 
timore county, where he received but an 
ordinary common school education. His 
attendance at school stopped at the age of 
fourteen years, when he was removed with 
his parents to Wilmington, Del. From 
thence forward he was put to work in the 
market gardens of his father, raising and 
preparing vegetables for the market. In the 
winter of 1861-62 he was brought with his 
parents to Harrisburg, and continued at 
work in the truck patches on one of the 
farms now embraced in the eastern portion 
of the city, and on part of which his resi- 
dence now stands. In the autumn of 1863, 
after the retreat of General Milroy from 
Winchester, Va., and the raid of the rebel 
army into Pennsylvania, when but seven- 
teen • years old, having obtained military 
transportation for thirty-two men, which he 
mustered for the purpose, he took them to 
Washington, and entered . the army as a 
wagon master. At Charleston, W. Va., he 
was transportation clerk in the depot quar- 
termaster's office. The fall and winter of 
1864 found him at Martinsburg, W. Va., as 
an assistant brigade wagon master, furnish- 
ing supplies to Sheridan's army, then occu- 
pying the Shenandoah Valley, as far up as 
Strasburg, from the military depot at Mar- 
tinsburg. After the end of open hostilities, 
he was discharged from the service at Ste- 
phenson's Station, Frederick county ,Va. He 
then went to Winchester, Va., and there be- 
gan the stud}' of the law, the rudiments of 
classics and general literature, investing all 
his savings and earnings in books. He had 
no preceptor. On August 6, 1867, after 
a personal examination before two of the 
circuit court judges, the venerable Richard 
Parker, who presided at the trial of John 
Brown and his compatriots and sentenced 
them to be hung for their misguided treason 
against the State in attempting the forcible 
emancipation of the slaves, and Judge John 
T. Harris, who afterwards, for several terms, 
represented the Virginia Valley of the Shen- 




«^~2_ 



^ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



441 



andoah in Congress, he began the practice 
of his profession at Winchester, Va. 

In 1868 he was appointed Common- 
wealth's attorney for the county of Shen- 
andoah, in place of Hon. Mark Bird, who, 
though elected by the people of his county, 
was incapacitated by the fourteenth amend- 
ment to the Constitution of the United 
States. Mr. Hargest made him his deputy, 
and gave him the fees and emoluments of 
the office. After the retirement of Judge 
John T. Harris, under the provisions of the 
fourteenth amendment, he was appointed, 
early in 1869, his successor as judge of the 
Twelfth judicial circuit of Virginia, by the 
then military governor of the State, the la- 
mented Gen. E. R. S. Canby, who was lured 
to a peace conference with the Indians, and 
treacherously murdered by the notorious 
Indian chief, Captain Jack. He served as 
judge of the Twelfth judicial circuit of 
Virginia, and on the District Court of Ap- 
peals, until the admission of the State to 
representation in Congress, when he, with 
all the other judges of the State, was legis- 
lated off the bench by the adoption of the 
new Constitution. He resumed practice at 
Winchester, remaining there until the death 
of his father, which occurred in the fall of 
1872, when he removed to Harrisburg. In 
1876 he was elected city solicitor of the city 
of Harrisburg, and continued in office by 
re-election until 1890, when he retired from 
office and returned to general practice. 
After leaving office he was engaged as 
special counsel for the city in the important 
litigation with the passenger railway com- 
panies, which embraced a number of suits in 
equity, involving the rights of the city over 
its streets as against the companies. These 
he mainly conducted to a successful termina- 
tion, when the city's sovereignty over the 
streets was yielded. Judge Hargest was 
married, at Winchester, Va., April 3, 1867, 
to Virginia Dieffenderfer, a native of Vir- 
ginia, daughter of William and Harriet 
Dieffenderfer, both natives of that State, 
and of German ancestry. To this union 
were born two children : William M. and 
lone Leila, wife of E. L. King, attorney-at- 
law, of Harrisburg. Mrs. Hargest died at 
Harrisburg, August 13, 1886. In politics 
Judge Hargest has always been a consistent 
Republican. The parents of Judge Hargest 
had born to them seven children, but three 
of whom are now living: Thomas S., John 
J., residing in the northern part of the city, 



and Jefferson S., of Susquehanna township, 
a short distance above the city, both of whom 
are agriculturalists. 



McPherson, John Bayard, was born No- 
vember 5, 1846, at Harrisburg, Pa. He re- 
ceived his early education at the Harrisburg 
Academy and in the schools of Sidney, Ohio, 
where he resided from 1858 to 1862; he en- 
tered Princeton College in August, 1862, 
from which institution he graduated in 1866. 
He studied law with John Hanna Briggs, 
in Harrisburg, and with Scammon, McCagg 
& Fuller, in Chicago, and was admitted to 
the Dauphin county bar in January, 1870; 
he was elected district attorney in 1874 and 
served during the years 1875, 1876, 1877. 
A portion of the time he was in law partner- 
ship with Hon. Wayne MacVeagh, and af- 
terwards with Lyman D. Gilbert. In Feb- 
ruary, 1882, he was appointed by Governor 
Hoyt to fill a vacancy in the office of addi- 
tional law judge of the Twelfth judicial dis- 
trict, caused by the resignation of Judge 
Henderson, and the consequent promotion 
of Judge Simonton to the president judge- 
ship, and, in November, 1882, he was elected 
without opposition to the same place. Judge 
McPherson married, December 30, 1879, 
Annie Cochran Patterson, daughter of Judge 
David W. Patterson and Mary Slaymaker, 
of Lancaster, Pa. 



Nead, Benjamin Matthias, comes of 
good old Pennsylvania German stock. He 
is the eldest son of Benjamin Franklin Nead 
and Ellen Wunderlich Nead, and the grand- 
son of Matthias Nead, who over half a cen- 
tury ago was prominently identified with 
the political and business history of Frank- 
lin county. The father, Benjamin Franklin 
Nead, was for upwards of forty years actively 
engaged in business in the borough of Charn- 
bersburg, for the major portion of the time 
being one of the firm of Wunderlich & Nead, 
which was among the pioneers in the old 
time forwarding and commission business. 
Franklin Nead, as he was commonly called, 
and Daniel K. Wunderlich, the other mem- 
ber of the firm and an uncle of Benjamin 
M., were prominent among that little coterie 
of enterprising and active business men, to 
whom belong the credit of having built p 
the little village of Chambersburg from an 
ordinary country town into the enterprising 
and thriving borough which it was when 
the blight of the Civil war fell upon it. 



442 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Benjamin Matthias Nead was born in An- 
trim township, Franklin county, not far from 
the town of Greencastle, on the 14th of July, 
1847, and the following year was removed 
to Chambersburg, where his father and 
mother then took up their abode. His pre- 
liminary education began in the Chambers- 
burg Academy, continued during the last 
year of the war under the private tutelage 
of the Rev. James F. Kennedy, of Chambers- 
burg. He then took a year at the New 
Haven Hopkins' grammar school, followed 
by a four years' course in Yale University, 
from which institution he graduated in 1870. 

After his graduation Mr. Nead returned 
to Chambersburg and studied law in the 
office of the Hon. Francis M. Kimmel, ex- 
judge of that judicial district, and was ad- 
mitted to practice in the several courts of 
Franklin county on June 4, 1872. He con- 
tinued the practice of his profession at the 
bar of his native county until the year 1875, 
when he was appointed to take charge of the 
State tax desk in the office of the auditor 
general of the Commonwealth of Pennsyl- 
vania at Harrisburg. This position held 
until 1881, when in May of that year he re- 
tired to resume the practice of his profession 
in the city of Harrisburg, where he has con- 
tinued in active practice ever since. 

The practical knowledge of State tax law 
acquired by Mr. Nead, through his service 
in the auditor general's department, led him, 
upon his retirement from that service, to 
make a specialty of practice in State tax and 
corporation cases, before the departments of 
government and in the State courts at Har- 
risburg. In this practice he has been largely 
successful and has made for himself a repu- 
tation throughout the State in this line of 
business. He is a local counsel at Harris- 
burg for a number of corporations, and has 
been employed in a number of important 
cases, notably the cases in which the Com- 
monwealth of Pennsylvania enjoined the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company from the 
purchase of the South Pennsylvania and 
Beech Creek railroads, and the suits insti- 
tuted by the Commonwealth against the 
counties of Philadelphia and Allegheny to re- 
cover large amounts of fees claimed by the 
State. In the former cases he was associated 
with Attorney General Cassidy, and in the 
other suits with Attorney Generals Hensel 
and McCormick, on behalf of the Common- 
wealth. 

In addition to his services in the account- 



ing departments, Mr. Nead has represented 
the State in a number of other capacities. 
Onthecommission of which the Hon.Tliomas 
V.Cooper was chairman, appointed to revise 
the revenue laws of the Commonwealth, and 
report a new system of taxation to the Leg- 
islature of 1883, Mr. Nead served by special 
appointment and gave the commission the 
benefit of his knowledge of the tax laws of 
the State, and the experience acquired by 
him in the practical work of their execution. 
He was also a member and secretary of the 
commission of six expert accountants ap- 
pointed by Governor Pattison, under the act 
of 1883, to devise a new system of keeping 
the accounts of the State. 

During the two terms of Governor Patti- 
son's incumbency in office, Mr. Nead also 
filled by his appointment the position of 
State financial agent for Pennsylvania at 
Washington. 

In September, 1894, Mr. Nead was ap- 
pointed by the comptroller of currency, at 
Washington, to take charge as receiver of the 
defunct National Bank of Middletown, Pa., 
and to settle up its affairs. In the adminis- 
tration of this trust and the allied trusts 
which accompanied it, and in the practice 
of his increasing legal profession he is now 
actively engaged. 

Mr. Nead was twice married, 1875, to Lib- 
bie J. Hayes, youngest daughter of David 
Hayes, of Shippensburg, who died in 1883, 
leaving to survive her, two sons : Benjamin 
Frank Nead, born 1877, and Robert Hayes 
Nead. born 1880. In 1892 Mr. Nead mar- 
ried Annie E. Zollinger, the youngest daugh- 
ter of the late Nicholas Zollinger, of Harris- 
burg. 

In the field of literature Mr. Nead has at- 
tained no inconsiderable reputation. In 
the earlier years of his residence in Harris- 
burg he was the trusted political correspond- 
ent of a number of leading Democratic 
newspapers in the country. During the year 
1887 he was the editor-in-chief of the Har- 
risburg Daily Patriot, and subsequently, 
1S88-89, in connection with his brother, Dr. 
Daniel W. Nead, owned and edited the Har- 
risburg Morning Call. Endowed with a love 
of historical research, his leisure time has 
been much devoted to the preparation and 
publication of a numberof historical sketches, 
monographs and compilations, the principal 
of which are: " Historical Sketches of Frank- 
lin County, Pennsylvania;" "Historical 
Notes on the Early Government and Legisla- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



443 



tive Councils of Pennsylvania (1628-1722)," 
and "A Brief Review of the Financial History 
of Pennsylvania, and of the Methods of Au- 
diting Public Accounts (1682-1881 )." In ad- 
dition to these he has written quite a number 
of newspaper and magazine sketches of an 
historical character, and has delivered inter- 
esting addresses before the " Pennsylvania 
German Society" and the "Scotch-Irish 
Congress of America." He is a member of 
the Pennsylvania State Historical Society, 
and of the Dauphin County Historical So- 
ciety. Also, of the Pennsylvania German 
Society and of the Penns}'lvania Sons of the 
Revolution. 

To the literature of his profession Mr. 
Nead has also been a painstaking contribu- 
tor. One of a commission of three, he as- 
sisted in the compilation of the " Colonial 
and Provincial Laws of Pennsylvania," prior 
to that time unpublished, covering the yeais 
1676 to 1700. This work was published by 
the State. He is also the author and pub- 
lisher of " Nead's Guide to County Officers," 
a compendium of general and special laws, 
governing the assessment and collection of 
State taxes. 

In politics Mr. Nead has always been an 
ardent Democrat, being descended from old 
Democratic stock, and has taken an active 
part in political work during the past twenty- 
five years, either through his connection 
with the organization of the part}' or upon 
the stump. He was chairman of the Demo- 
cratic committee of Franklin county during 
the exciting Greely and Buckalew campaigns 
in 1872. He was secretary, by appointment, 
of the Democratic State Committee, under 
chairman John Miller, in 1874, and when 
the new rules for the party were adopted in 
18S7, and the office of permanent secretary 
was created, Mr. Nead was elected to fill the 
office which he did so acceptably, that he 
held the office by re-election for seven suc- 
cessive years, when under the rules of the 
party lately adopted the office was made an 
appointive one under the State chairman. 
In 1894 Mr. Nead was tendered the unani- 
mous nomination for Congress by the con- 
ference representing the Democracy of the 
Fourteenth Congressional district of Penn- 
sylvania, consisting of the counties Of Dau- 
phin, Lebanon and Perry. Having just been 
appointed a bank receiver, with exacting 
duties, he was compelled to decline the 
honor conferred upon him. 



. Chamberlin, James I., attorney-at-law, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Milton, North- 
umberland county, Pa., November 13, 1847. 
He is a son of Moses and Jane H. (Watson) 
Chamberlin. He was reared in Milton and 
educated in the Milton Academy and at Dick- 
inson Seminary, Williamsport, Pa. He took 
a preparatory course at Tuscarora Academy, 
Juniata county, Pa., and was graduated from 
the academical department of Yale College 
in the class of 1873. He read law with Hon. 
Wayne MacVeagh, of Harrisburg, and was 
admitted to the Dauphin county bar April 
29, 1875. He at once entered upon the 
practice of law in Harrisburg, and has se- 
cured an extensive business. 

Mr. Chamberlin's political views are Re- 
publican. He served for five years in the 
board of city schools and as president one 
year. He is a stockholder in the Steelton 
Flouring Mill Company, the First National 
Bank of Harrisburg and the Common- 
wealth Guarantee Trust and Safe Deposit 
Company. He is prominently identified 
with the Jackson Manufacturing Company, 
of which he was the president for twelve 
years. He is also interested in many other 
industries of the city. 

Mr. Chamberlin was first married to Miss 
Eliza J., daughter of John and Maria Halde- 
man, of Harrisburg. She died June 22, 
1881, leaving one child, Maria Haldeman 
Chamberlin. His second marriage, Decem- 
ber 25, 1895, was to Miss Jean Bosler, daugh- 
ter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Herman Bosler, of 
Carlisle, Pa. 



Mitchell, William, lawyer, son of Joseph 
and Elizabeth (Zearing) Mitchell, was born 
September 17, 1814, in Harrisburg, Pa. He 
was educated in Dickinson College prepara- 
tory school and took a partial course in 
Dickinson College, where he studied civil 
engineering. He was prothonotary of the 
Courtof Common Pleasand clerk of the Quar- 
ter Sessions of Dauphin county two terms, 
1855-61. He married, March 15, 1849, An- 
gelica, daughter of Christian and Mary F. 
Ehrman, and their children are: Mary 
Augusta, who married Rev. S. Hubbard 
Hoover, William Sullivan, Ehrman Burk- 
man and Samuel Morton. Ehrman B. 
Mitchell, son of the foregoing, was born 
April 11, 1854, in Harrisburg, Pa. He was 
graduated from Dickinson College in 1874, 
and admitted to the Dauphin county bar in 



444 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



1875. He was elected prothonotary and 
clerk of the Quarter Sessions of Dauphin 
county in 1879, and re-elected in 1882. 



Mitchell, Ehrman B., attorney-at-lavv, 
was horn April 11, 1854, in Harrisburg, Pa., 
son of William and Angelica (Ehrman) 
Mitchell. He received his literary education 
in the public schools of his native city and 
at Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa., having 
been graduated from the latter institution in 

1874. After completing his law studies he 
was admitted to the Dauphin county bar in 

1875, and has since practiced his profession 
in this city. Mr. Mitchell very successfully 
and efficiently performed the duties of pro- 
thonotary of the Court of Common Pleas 
from 1879 to 1886, and also served as clerk 
of the Quarter Sessions Court. Mr. Mitchell 
was attorney for and one of the directors in 
the organization of the Harrisburg Electric 
Light Company, and is at present a director 
in the Guarantee Safe Deposit Company, of 
Harrisburg, and the Harrisburg Steam Heat 
and Power Company. In politics he is a 
Republican, and takes an active interest in 
party matters. He is identified with the 
Masonic order. His marriage occurred in 
1892 with Regina Calder, daughter of Will- 
iam Calder. He and his family belong to 
Grace Methodist Episcopal church. 



Pearson, William, attorn ey-at-law and 
prothonotary of Middle district of Supreme 
Court of Pennsylvania, and prothonotary of 
the Harrisburg district of the Superior Court 
of Pennsylvania, was born in Harrisburg, 
August 9, 1854, son of John J. Pearson, late 
judge of 4his judicial district, and of Mary 
H. (Briggs) Pearson, the latter still living 
and residing in Harrisburg. He received 
his primary education and was prepared for 
college in the city schools and the Harris- 
burg Academy, and was afterwards grad- 
uated from the college at Princeton, N. J., in 
the class of 187(5. His professional studies 
were pursued under the direction of his dis- 
tinguished father, and he was admitted to 
the bar of Dauphin county in 1876, and to 
practice in the Superior Court of Pennsyl- 
vania, May 17, 1SS0. His appointment to 
the office of prothonotary was made January 
1, 1882. Mr. Pearson is unmarried. In his 
political views he is a Republican. 



Herman, John Armstrong, attorney-at- 
law, was born in Cumberland county, Pa., 
November 28, 1853. He is a son of Chris- 
tian B. and Mary (Armstrong) Herman, both 
natives of Cumberland county, the former of 
whom died in April, 1863 ; the latter still 
survives and makes her home with her son 
in Harrisburg. His great-grandfather on 
his mother's side, Gen. John Armstrong, was 
a major general in the Revolutionary war, 
and the great-grandfather, Martin Herman, 
was also a Revolutionary soldier. The par- 
ents were early settlers in Cumberland county. 
The father in early life was engaged in 
agricultural pursuits, but during his latter 
days led a retired life on the old Herman 
homestead near New Kingston, Cumberland 
county. The parents had born to them 
three children, of whom John A. is the only 
one living, a brother and sister having died 
in infancy. The father was a very popular 
man in his region. John A. received his 
primary education in the public schools of 
his native county. He also attended the 
Edgehill School at Princeton, N. J., and was 
graduated from Princeton University with 
the class of 1874. He entered the office of 
Hon. Wayne MacA^eagh, Hon. John D. Mc- 
Pherson and Hon. Lyman D. Gilbert, of 
Harrisburg, and read law for over two years. 
In the spring of 1877 he was admitted to the. 
bar of Dauphin county and has practiced 
here since that time. Mr. Herman is un- 
married. In politics he is Republican. He 
is a member of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, 
I. 0. 0. F., the Society of Colonial Wars of 
New York and Pennsylvania, Sons of the 
Revolution of Pennsylvania, and of Dau- 
phin County Historical Society. He attends 
the Market Square Presbyterian church. He 
is a popular and successful attorney and 
is secretary and treasurer of the McKee 
Water Company, secretary of the Cumber- 
land Water Company, and also secretary of 
the Hagerstown Railway Company. 



Kunkel, George, attorney-at-law, was 
born at Harrisburg, Pa., March 11, 1855. 
He was educated at the academies conducted 
respectively by Professors Gauze and Seiler, 
of Harrisburg, and at Franklin and Mar- 
shall College, Lancaster, from which latter 
institution lie was graduated in 1876 as sec- 
ond honor man of his class, having been 
designated to deliver the Franklin oration. 
Choosing the law for his profession lie pur- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



445 



sued his studies in that science under the 
tutorship of Hon. J. W. Simonton. In 1878, 
two years after his graduation from college, 
he was admitted to the bar of Dauphin 
county, and forthwith entered upon the ac- 
tive practice of his profession, and with suc- 
cessful results that at once demonstrated his 
fitness for his chosen calling. Engaging in 
important cases his practice soon led him 
from the lower courts into the Supreme 
Court, where his comprehensive knowledge 
of the law and his extraordinary faculty for 
concise and forcible reasoning brought him 
exceptional success. 

Some years after his admission to the bar 
Mr. Kunkel paid a visit to England and 
availed himself of the opportunity to study 
the conduct and methods of the English 
courts. He attended the session of every 
court from the Nisi Prius to the court of the 
House of Lords. He familiarized himself 
with the practice in all of them and gath- 
ered knowledged that has stood him in good 
stead in his home practice. In 1885, after 
one of the most exciting contests ever 
had in the count} 7 , he was made the can- 
didate for district attorney by the Re- 
publican party, and was elected by a 
handsome majority. His administration of 
the office exceeded the expectation of his 
friends and won for him high commenda- 
tions from his fellow-members of the bar. In 
1888 he was unanimously renominated and 
was re-elected by the unprecedented majority 
of 3,700, receiving 1,600 majority in Harris- 
burg, his home. He brought to the admin- 
tration of his second term the experience 
gathered in the first, conducting the business 
with marked ability and retiring from the 
office with the confidence and respect of his 
fellow-citizens, which was shortly afterwards, 
in 1892, manifested by his choice as the can- 
didate of the Republican party to represent 
the city of Harrisburg in the State Legisla- 
ture. Although opposed by a most popular 
Democrat for this office, and in the face of 
the fact that he had been placed upon the 
ticket to fill a vacancy caused by death only 
a few days prior to the election, Mr. Kunkel 
was elected by a majority of over seven hun- 
dred. 

In the House he at once attracted atten- 
tion by his courtesy, ability and attention to 
business, and soon won the esteem and con- 
fidence of his associates. His committee 
work has been of great service and his judg- 
ment upon legislation generally accepted by 



members with entire satisfaction. In 1894 
he eclipsed all previous records by securing 
a plurality of over 2,400 for re-election. This 
more than anything else attested his high 
standing both as a legislator and a man. 
Mr. Kunkel was a formidable candidate for 
speaker of the House of Representatives at 
the last session. He gave way, however, to 
his opponent for the sake of harmony. His 
popularity was evidenced by his appointment 
as chairman of the committee on insurance 
and a member of the judiciary general, city 
passenger railways, ways and means, and 
railroad committees. At present writing 
(1896) Mr. Kunkei's friends are rejoicing 
over another political victory won by him 
which gives him the Republican nomination 
for a third term as representative for the city 
of Harrisburg in the lower house of the Leg- 
islature. 

If Mr. Kunkei's success has been phe- 
nomenal it is none the less permanent and 
deserved. His sense of honor, his perse- 
verance, his honesty, his tenacity, all that 
render him effective and reliable, he has 
made the principal points of his life's work. 
He is a steady and uniform friend of hu- 
manity. Much of his success in public is 
due to his quick and ready perception of 
facts and a memory unusually tenacious 
and retentive, and his remarkable power to 
rapidly draw logical conclusions, which is 
one of the strongest points of the lawyer. 
With his strong voice and splendid phy- 
sique, Mr. Kunkel is deservedly popular as 
a public speaker. Naturally intelligent and 
widely read, he is rich in illustration and 
both professionall}' and politically he is 
classed among the first orators in the State. 
In his conduct of criminal cases, and he has 
been connected with those of the greatest 
importance at this and neighboring bars, 
his arguments show him to be a master in 
marshalling facts, while powerful and con- 
vincing in the presentation of the salient 
points to a jury. 

The law firm of Kunkel & Millar, of 
which Mr. Kunkel is the senior and leading 
member, is recognized as one of the foremost 
at the Dauphin county bar. Politically, 
Mr. Kunkel is a Republican and has always 
advocated the principles of that party. He 
has considered it a duty to study the leading 
questions of the day, so as to be able to dis- 
cuss them intelligently; thus, and through 
his active participation in the contests of 
his party, he has come to be recognized as 



446 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



a leader both in local and State politics at 
the present time. 

In his home life Mr. Kunkel is most 
happy. In the fall of 1891 he was married 
to Miss Mae Minster, of West Philadelphia, 
and their union has been blessed with thi'ee 
children, three bright little boys : George, Jr., 
William Minster, and Daniel Herr. 



Alleman, John Sylvanus, attorney-at- 
law, son of Samuel and Ann Elizabeth 
(Holman) Alleman, was born at Harrisburg, 
Pa., May 22, 1855. He is a descendant of 
distinguished paternal, as well as maternal, 
German ancestry. 

His great-great-grandfather, John Chris- 
tian Alleman, came to America with two 
brothers, Hiram (or Hermon) and John 
Friederich Christian, from Hamburg, on the 
ship Leathley, Captain John Lickley, and 
took the oath of allegiance to the then gov- 
ernment, on September 19, 1753. He settled 
in what was then Swatara township, Lan- 
caster county, Pa., and died, July 4, 1790. 
Plis tombstone is still to be seen in the Lu- 
theran churchyard at Middletown, Pa. 

His son, John Alleman, great-grandfather 
of John S., was a distinguished Revolution- 
ary soldier, in the company of Capt. Joseph 
Sherer, Fourth battalion, of Lancaster 
county, commanded by Col. James Burd, 
and in the New Jersey campaign of the 
spring and summer of 1776 frequently met 
the British, particularly in a severe caval^ 
charge at Amboy. After the independence 
of the United States had been secured, he 
settled down to the peace and quiet of agri- 
cultural pursuits, on a farm located about 
three miles east of Middletown, having for 
his neighbors the Crouches, Eshenours and 
Jordans. He acquired prominence and in- 
fluence among those sturdy early settlers, 
and at his decease left an estate valued at 
nearly $20,000, which, in those times, was 
no insignificant sum. He was also pos- 
sessed of lands in Ohio, receiving a patent 
for the same from President James Madison. 
He was married to Barbara Eshenour, and 
died, October 16, 1811, leaving a numerous 
family, among whom was his son, John Al- 
leman, a farmer, born October 22, 1793, and 
who died in 1865. The latter was married, 
July 16, 1816, to Elizabeth Mockert. 

From this marriage sprang Samuel Alle- 
man, father of John S., who was born Feb- 
ruary 2, 1818, and who, by close application 
and assiduous industry, earned for himself a 



liberal education at Pennsylvania College, 
Gettysburg. He was admitted to the prac- 
tice of law at the bar of Dauphin county, 
August 19, 1845 ; to the Supreme Court, of 
Pennsylvania, June 22, 1848 ; was deputy 
secretary of the Commonwealth under Gov. 
Francis Shunk ; moved in 1856 with his 
family to Snyder county, then newly organ- 
ized; was superintendent of public schools 
there in 1862; elected member of the Legis- 
lature in 1864-65 ; was collector of internal 
revenue of the Fourteenth district; and, 
after enjoying the confidence and esteem of 
his fellow-citizens for many long years, his 
life-work ended by his death, February 28, 
1881. 

On May, 18, 1846, he married Ann Eliza- 
beth Holman, whose ancestry in America 
dates back to the very dawn of the eigh- 
teenth century, when we fiud them embark- 
ing for the New World from Amsterdam. 
She was the oldest child of Samuel Holman, 
architect and builder, of Harrisburg, Pa., 
and who was a soldier of the war of 1812, in 
Capt. Thomas Walker's company, First regi- 
ment, First brigade, Pennsylvania militia, 
under command of Col. Maxwell Kennedy, 
and who, when Harrisburg was threatened 
in the perilous times of 1863, marched out 
with the " Old Defenders " for the protection 
of his home and family. His son, William 
S. Holman, was in the service of the Federal 
Government on board the " Monitor," when 
she foundered off Cape Hatteras, but es- 
caped with the rest of the crew to the " Iron- 
sides." 

John S. Alleman, when but an infant, 
was taken to Middleburg, the county seat of 
Snyder county, spending his boyhood da} r s 
there, until February, 1865, when his father 
removed to Selin's Grove, and purchased 
the old Governor Snyder stone mansion, 
built about 1817. There he received his 
primary education at the Missionary Insti- 
tute, preparing himself for Pennsylvania 
College, at Gettysburg, which he entered in 
the fall of 1S72, and from which he gradu- 
ated with honor in the class of '76, of which 
he was the class historian, and received the 
degree of B. A. Three years later the same 
institution conferred upon him the degree 
of M. A. 

In the autumn of 1S76 he began reading- 
law in the offices of his father, and in the 
fall of 1877 entered the law department of 
the University of Pennsylvania, at Phila- 
delphia, having as his preceptor the late 



DAUPHIN COUNTY: 



447 



E. Spencer Miller. He was graduated from 
the University with the class of 1879, re- 
ceiving the degree of LL. B. ; was admitted 
to the bar of Philadelphia, June 14, 1879 ; 
to the bar of Dauphin county, August 27, 
1879 ; and to practice before the Supreme 
Court of Pennsylvania, June 2, 1890. 

By strict integrity, and manly indepen- 
dence, he has built up an extensive practice, 
frequently filling positions of great trust. 
He began practice without financial assist- 
ance, but by frugality and industry has 
risen to a prominent position in his chosen 
profession and in the community. He has 
avoided politics. 

October 11, 1882, he was married to Cor- 
delia I. Domer, daughter of Rev. Samuel 
Domer, D. D., of Washington, D. C. Mrs. 
Alleman was born at Selin's Grove, and to 
them have been born two sons : Coleridge 
Domer, born October 9, 1883, died February 
5, 1894 ; and Rosooe Harold, born May 3, 
1888. 

Mr. Alleman is a staunch Republican in 
politics, casting his first vote for President 
Rutherford B. Hayes. The family are mem- 
bers of the Fourth Street Lutheran church, 
to which his paternal ancestors belonged at 
its foundation, in 1785 ; and has represented 
his church at various synodical conventions, 
and being sent as a lay delegate from the 
East Pennsylvania Synod to the General 
Synod of the Lutheran Church, held at Ha- 
gerstown, Md., June 5, 1895. 



Nissley, Harmon L., attorney -at-law, was 
born at Landisville, Lancaster county, Pa., 
August 1, 1851. He is a son of Samuel E. 
and Annie (Long) Nissley, the former of 
Swiss origin, the latter of German. The 
former died June 25, 1887, the latter No- 
vember 15, 1863. The father was a promi- 
nent farmer of Lancaster county, where he 
spent his life. The parents had ten chil- 
dren. Those living are : Jonas L., Abra- 
ham, Samuel, Harmon, Benjamin Franklin 
and Lincoln, all of whom reside in Lancas- 
ter excepting Harmon, who lives in Harris- 
burg, and Lincoln, who lives in Los Angeles, 
Cal. Harmon received his primary educa- 
tion in the common schools of Lancaster 
county, and also attended select schools at 
Manheim and Lancaster and the Normal 
School at Millersburg. He is a graduate of 
the latter. He received his. professional 
training at the Columbia Law School, New 
York City, graduating with the class of 



1882. He read law with George H. Ervin. 
He was admitted to the Dauphin county- 
bar December 26, 1882, and to Supreme 
Court of Pennsylvania in 1885. He was 
married at Hagerstown, Md., February 10, 
1892, to Clara J. Schindei, daughter of Louis 
and Susan Schindei. Two children have 
been born to them, namely, Dorothy S., 
born September 14, 1893, and Edwin S., 
born May 16, 1895. In political views Mr. 
Nissley is a Republican. The family attend 
the Lutheran church. 



Wolfe, Leroy J., attorney-at-law, was 
born in Newberry township, York county, 
Pa., September 18, 1858, and is a son of 
Jacob B. and Anna E. (Landis) Wolfe, both 
natives of Pennsylvania; the former de- 
ceased, and the latter still surviving and re- 
siding in Middletown, Pa. This family 
consisted of four children, who lived to ma- 
turity. Silas, who graduated from West 
Point Military Academy in 1878, and is 
now a captain in the regular army of the 
United States, and Leroy J., are the qnly 
surviving members. Those deceased are : 
Addison L. and Catherine. Leroy J. was 
educated in the public schools of York 
county, the Academy, and graduated from 
the University of Pennsylvania in 1881. 
He read law with John A. Burtin, Esq., of 
Philadelphia, and was admitted to practice 
at Dauphin county bar in 1882, to practice 
in Supreme Court of Pennsylvania in 1885, 
and to Supreme Court of United States in 
1891. 

He was married in New Cumberland, Pa., 
December 27, 1881, to Miss Tyrza B. Shoop, 
daughter of Samuel J. and Sarah Shoop, 
and to their union have been born two chil- 
dren, Isabella S. and LeRoy S. In politi- 
cal views Mr. Wolfe is a Republican, and 
both he and Mrs. Wolfe are members of the 
Presbyterian church. 



Bergner, Charles Henry, attorney-at- 
law, was born in Harrisburg, October 20, 
1853, son of George and Catherine (Uhler) 
Bergiier. The father was born in Prussia 
and came to Reading, Pa., where he learned 
the trade of printing. He published a Ger- 
man paper in Harrisburg, and was later con- 
nected with the Telegraph, and was post- 
master of Harrisburg for fifteen j'ears. He 
died August 5, 1874, and his wife died Jan- 
uary 29, 1865. They had four children, two 
of whom are living: Charles H. and Fred- 



448 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



erick, both residing in Harrisburg. Charles 
Henry received his education in public and 
private schools, Harrisburg Academy, Edge- 
hill Collegiate School and in Princeton Col- 
lege. Having read law with Col. A. J. Herr, 
at Harrisburg, he was admitted to the Dau- 
phin county bar March 3, 1883, and to 
practice in the Supreme Court the following 
June, since which date he has conducted a 
general practice in Harrisburg. He suc- 
ceeded his father in the management of the 
Harrisburg Telegraph in August, 1874, in 
which he continued until 1881. Mr. Berg- 
ner was married in New Bloomfield, Pa., 
April 26, 1877, to Annie V. Sponsler, daugh- 
ter of William A. and Elizabeth Sponsler, 
by whom he had four children: William S., 
Katherine, Elvina, and George. He is a 
Republican in politics. The family attend 
the" Market Square Presbyterian church. 



Fleming, George R., attorney-at-law, was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa., September 13, 1860. 
He»is a son of David and Susan (Mowry) 
Fleming. His early education was afforded 
by the local schools, and he was prepared for 
college at the Phillips Academy, Andover, 
Mass. He was graduated from Princeton 
College in the class of 1883. He read law 
with his father and with Hon. S. J. M. McCar- 
rell, and was admitted to the bar of Dau- 
phin county in 1885. At the death of his 
father he was made executor of the estate. 
Mr. Fleming is connected with important 
business interests of the city. He has served 
as a director of the Harrisburg Foundry and 
Machine Company, the Commonwealth Trust 
and Safe Deposit Company, the Brelsford 
Packing Company, the Steelton Electric 
Light Company, and the Susquehanna Mu- 
tual Fire Insurance Company ; vice-presi- 
dent of the Harrisburg City Passenger Rail- 
way Company, and treasurer of the Harris- 
burg Grocer} 7 and Produce Company. Mr. 
Fleming and his family are members of the 
Market Square Presbyterian church ; he was 
leader of the choir in that church for thir- 
teen years. He is a Republican. Mr. Flem- 
ing was married, October 10, 1890, to Miss 
Eliza McCormick, daughter of Rev. T. H. 
Robinson, D. D. They have two children : 
Anna Margaretta and Susan Mowry. Dr. 
Robinson, father of Mrs. Fleming, was the 
former able and honored pastor of the Mar- 
ket Square Presbyterian church, Harrisburg. 



For many years he filled the chair of sacred 
rhetoric, church government and pastoral 
theology in the Western Theological Semi- 
nary at Pittsburgh, Pa. 

Nissley, John C, lawyer, was born near 
Hummelstown, Pa., February 8, 1856. His 
lineage is traced in the following history of 
one branch of the Nissley family now re- 
siding in Dauphin county : 

Jacob Nissley was the pioneer of the Niss- 
ley family who came to Lancaster county in 
1719, when Lancaster county was composed 
of Dauphin and Lebanon counties as one, 
and was naturalized in 1729. His offspring 
are as follows : Jacob, John (known as Hans) 
and Henry. John, or Hans, had the follow- 
ing children : Michael, Abraham, Rev. John, 
who was married to Miss Herzler, and was 
born in 1746 and died in 1825 ; Jacob, Rev. 
Samuel, Martin, Fannie. The Rev. John 
Nissley. who resided in Paxtang, Dauphin 
county, had the following children : Jacob, 
whose wife was a Miss Nissley ; John, whose 
wife was a MissOber; Martin, whose wife 
was a Miss Landis, and who was born in 
1786 and died in 186S ; Maria, her husbands 
being Frantz and Rudy. John, whose wife, 
as noted above, was a Miss Ober, had two 
children: Christian, who was married to 
Nancy Funk, of Lebanon, and who lived 
and died in Derry township on the home- 
stead now occupied by Edward Stover, which 
is known as Stoverdale; Frances Nissley, who 
was married to Samuel Neidig, whom she 
survived with one child, Mary, who is now 
the widow of Samuel Bowman, of Lebanon 
county, and resides with her daughter, Mrs. 
William H. Ulrich, of Hnmmelstown, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., her second husband being 
Abraham Landis, of Derry township, with 
whom she had four children : Mrs. John 
Carman}', Mrs. W. Etter and Mrs. Joseph 
Rudy, of Harrisburg, Dauphin county, and 
one son, Christian Landis, who was drowned 
in the Swatara creek, near Middletown, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. Christian Nissley, who 
married Nancy Funk, had the following 
children : Mary, widow of Isaac Mauma, of 
Highspire, Joseph, residing near Hummels- 
town, Dauphin county, John J., Christian, 
now deceased, Martin, Samuel, a doctor, re- 
siding in Elizabethtown, Lancaster county, 
Levi and Annie, both residing in the bor- 
ough of Middletown, and not married. 

Joseph Nissley was married to Annie 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



451 



Ober, of near Elizabethtown, Lancaster 
county. They have the following children : 
Agnes, wife of Joseph L. Brandt, Esq., cash- 
ier of the Exchange Bank of Marietta, Pa.; 
Isaac 0. Nissley, editor of the Middletown 
Weekly Press, married to Emma Brunner, 
daughter of William E. Brunner, of Carnp- 
bellstown, Lebanon county, Pa.; John C. 
Nissley, an attorney-at-law of the bar of 
Dauphin county; Annie 0., wife of Abraham 
L. Etter, editor and publisher of the daily 
Journal, of Middletown, Dauphin county, 
Pa.; Christian G. Nissley, ex-editor of the 
Tyrone Weekly Times in Blair county, Pa., 
now of Harrisburg, Pa., who is married to 
Caroline Kunkel, daughter of George Z. and 
Isabella Kunkel, of Harrisburg, Pa. 

John C. Nissley was engaged in such oc- 
cupations as usually fall to a boy's lot on 
the farm until he had attained the age of 
sixteen years. His primary education was 
such as he could get in the public schools, 
and prepared him to teach school. He 
taught in the schools of Dauphin county for 
four years. He then entered the State 
Normal School at Shippensburg, where he 
spent several terms, then entered Indiana 
State Normal School, Indiana county, Pa., 
where he prepared himself for college. In 
1879 he entered Bucknell University, and 
was graduated in 1883. He also received 
from this institution the honorary degree of 
Bachelor of Philosophy in 1891. In the law 
office of Mumma & Shoop, Harrisburg, Pa., 
where he was a student, he laid the founda- 
tion for the success which has marked his 
career at the bar. He was admitted to the 
bar in 1886, and began his practice of law 
with the late Elias Hollinger. During the 
first years of his practice Mr. Nissley found 
time to prepare a series of popular lectures. 
Of his lecture on ;I Great Men " Dr. Edward 
Brooks, of Philadelphia, has said : " It is a 
worthy effort, spicy, practical, interesting, 
and executed in a pleasing manner, with un- 
usual vigor and earnestness." Thoroughly 
familiar with the intricacies of his profession 
Mr. Nissley is well qualified to give advice 
on matters of law. He is a clear thinker 
and a forcible and graceful speaker. As a 
criminal lawyer he has won many laurels. 
He was associated with Mr. Backenstoe as 
counsel for Undergus, the Powell's Valley 
criminal, who was tried for murder, but 
escaped the penalty of that crime, and was 
found guilty, instead, of assault and battery. 
He is widely known and deservedly popular. 
32 



With his father's political faith he has in- 
herited also his father's independence. 



Detweiler. Meade D., was born in Mid- 
dletown, Dauphin county, Pa., October 15, 
1863, and is descended from a Pennsylva- 
nia German family. His paternal ancestors 
are among the pioneers of Dauphin county, 
his grandfather having settled here some 
time in 1700. His father, Samuel Det- 
weiler, is a native of Dauphin county. He 
was a popular hotelkeeper at Middletown, 
and subsequently came to Harrisburg, where 
he was for many years in the same business, 
from which he retired in 1880, and since 
that date has had his residence in this city. 
He married Elizabeth Matter, a native of 
Lebanon county, by whom he had five chil- 
dren, Meade D. being the fourth in the order 
of their birth. Meade D. was scarcely ten 
years of age when he was brought by his 
parents to Harrisburg, where he has been 
living for the past twenty-two years. He 
attended the public schools of the city and 
advanced to the junior year of the high 
school, after which he entered Pennsylvania 
College at Gettysburg and was graduated 
with the first honors of his class in 1884. 
Having received his diploma, conferring 
upon him the degree of B. A., he returned 
to Harrisburg and began the study of law 
with Hall & Jordan, and within two years 
was admitted to practice. Immediately upon 
his admission to the bar in 1886, he began 
his professional work with ardor and in- 
dustry, and was soon busily occupied with 
the duties of an active and successful prac- 
tice in both the criminal and civil courts. 
He is a member of the bar of the Supreme 
Court and of the United States Court. 

The phenomenal success of Mr. Detweiler 
as an attorney is due to the high order of in- 
tellectual powers with which he is endowed, 
the thorough and generous culture he has 
given to his native gifts, by liberal educa- 
tion and deep research, the candor and im- 
partiality of his disposition, his studious 
and business-like habits, his pleasing per- 
sonality, and his force and fluency and grace 
of speech. While busily engaged in per- 
sonal and professional work, he has found 
time to enter the broader fields of social and 
public activities, where his ability and devo- 
tion have been widely bestowed and warmly 
appreciated. In political views he found 
himself in sympathy with the Republican 
party, and has loyally given to this great 



454 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



he was brought into personal contact with 
the officers of nearly all the corporations 
doing business in the State and was recog- 
nized by them as being more familiar with 
the various tax laws than any other man in 
or out of the legal profession. According^, 
as soon as he was released from the office, he 
was regularly retained by them to adjust 
their tax accounts with the Commonwealth 
and at once upon his admission to the bar 
found himself in the enjoyment of a large 
and lucrative practice. He became and has 
since remained the resident attorney at the 
State Capital for many of the leading cor- 
porations of the country. He was admitted 
to practice in the Supreme Court of Penn- 
sylvania in May, 1881, and in the Supreme 
Court of the United States November 12, 
1884. 

The first case which he argued in the 
Court of Common Pleas of Dauphin county 
was that of the Corning, Cowanesque and 
Antrim Railway Company, a case of very 
considerable difficulty, in which he won a 
complete victory. The result was so grati- 
fying to Gen. George J. Magee, president of 
the company, that he caused Mr. Olmsted 
to be regularly retained, and he has ever 
since been the legal representative at Har- 
risburg of all the numerous corporations 
with which General Magee is connected. 

His first case in the State Supreme Court 
was that of the Commonwealth vs. National 
Mutual Aid Association, reported in 94 Pa., 
481, in which the claim of the State was en- 
tirely defeated. His participation in the 
argument of this case before the Supreme 
Court was only through the courtesy of the 
court, as he had not at that time been a 
membei of the bar for two years as was re- 
quired by the rules of admission to the bar 
of the Supreme Court. 

One of the most important among his 
.earlier cases was that of the Commonwealth 
vs. Texas and Pacific Railroad Company, 
reported in 98 Pa., 90. In this case the 
State endeavored to collect from the com- 
pany a license tax of twelve thousand five 
hundred dollars a year for having an office 
in Pennsylvania, upon the ground that it 
was a foreign and not a domestic corpora- 
tion. Mr. Olmsted raised the novel defense 
that a corporation created by Congress could 
not be regarded as a foreign corporation but 
must be treated as a domestic corporation in 
each State. This position was sustained by 
the Dauphin county court and affirmed by 



the Supreme Court. The case was widely 
reported and is cited in all text books as a 
leading one on the subject. 

Another of his early and important cases 
was that of the Commonwealth vs. Standard 
Oil Company, reported in 101 Pa., 119, in 
which the Commonwealth sought to collect 
from the company over three million dol- 
lars. The case was bitterly contested on 
both sides, and the Dauphin county court, 
sustaining nearly all of Mr. Olmsted's posi- 
tions, gave a judgment against the company 
for only thirty-three thousand dollars, from 
which both sides appealed to the Supreme 
Court. The company succeeded in defeating 
the Commonwealth's appeal, and on the 
company's appeal, which was taken by Mr. 
Olmsted on his own motion and argued 
by him alone, the Supreme Court struck off 
the penalty and the interest on the ground 
that the several laws under which the tax 
was claimed having been repealed, with the 
reservation onty of the right to collect ac- 
crued taxes, the penalties fell with the re- 
peal of the laws, so that the Commonwealth 
finally recovered only twenty-two thousand 
dollars. This was considered the most im- 
portant tax case ever tried in the State, in- 
volving a larger amount than any other, and 
is a leading case upon a number of points. 

A still more important case, however, was 
that of Commonwealth vs. Lehigh Valley 
Railroad Company, reported in 104 Pa., 89, 
which involved the right of the State to hold 
corporations liable for a tax imposed upon 
their bondholders by the revenue acts of 
1879 and 1881. The litigation began in 
1879 and lasted until 1883, resulting in a 
complete victory for the company, the Su- 
preme Court declaring both acts inoperative 
and void, so far as they attempted to hold 
corporations responsible for the collection of 
the tax ; it being the first time in the history 
of the Commonwealth in which the Supreme 
Court had rendered a decision nullifying a 
general tax law. The amount involved to 
the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company in 
that case was ninety-eight thousand dollars 
per annum, and the amount involved for 
the various clients for which Mr. Olmsted 
was concerned and which the. decision af- 
fected was about one million dollars per year. 

This case furnishes a striking illustration 
of Mr. Olmsted's keen legal acumen. At 
the beginning of the litigation there was 
not a lawyer in the State who agreed as to 
the wisdom of testing the law. The Penn- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



455 



sylvania Railroad Company had paid into 
the treasury over two hundred thousand dol- 
lars without question, and numerous other 
corporations had submitted to the law with- 
out an effort to contest its validity. Two 
successive attorneys general and their depu- 
ties, all men of profound learning, had con- 
tended with great skill against Mr. Olmsted's 
position, which was, however, finally sus- 
tained by the Supreme Court. 

Among the many important cases in 
which Mr. Olmsted was concerned was the 
suit brought by the Commonwealth of Penn- 
sylvania against the city of Philadelphia 
to recover a tax of eight hundred thousand 
dollars on account of two hundred million 
dollars of mortgages alleged to be held in 
that city which had not been returned for 
taxation. Mr. Olmsted took a prominent 
part in the argument of this case, and the 
claim of the State was entirely defeated. 

In the case of the Commonwealth vs. West- 
inghouse Electric and Manufacturing Com- 
pany, reported in 151 Pa., 265, Mr. Olmsted 
established a principle of constitutional law 
of the widest reach and utmost importance, 
namely, immunity from State taxation or 
control of patents or patent rights granted 
by the United States to inventors. This 
question had never before been raised and 
its determination has resulted in the saving 
of hundreds of thousands of dollars to Mr. 
Olmsted's clients. 

The first opinion delivered by the present 
chief justice of the United States Supreme 
Court, reported in 128 U. S., 39, was in the 
case of the Commonwealth against the West- 
ern Union Telegraph Company for taxes 
upon receipts for messages crossing the State 
lines. In this case the Supreme Court of 
Pennsylvania decided against the company, 
but Mr. Olmsted succeeded in reversing that 
decision on appeal to the Supreme Court of 
the United States, and established the prin- 
ciple that such business was inter-State com- 
merce, the right to regulate which was ex- 
clusively vested in Congress. 

Mr. Olmsted's earlier practice was confined 
almost exclusively to corporation tax busi- 
ness, but his reputation as a profound law- 
yer of infinite resources became so general 
throughout the State that it was impossible 
for him to resist the importunities of clients 
in other branches of the law, and he was 
compelled to widen its scope until it em- 
braced corporation business of all kinds. 

Among the first of his successes in this 



broader field was in the case of the Com- 
monwealth vs. The Beech Creek Railroad 
Company, where the State interfered by in- 
junction to prevent the sale of the defendant 
company's stock to the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company. The injunction was dis- 
solved as to Mr. Olmsted's clients, but con- 
tinued as to the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, thus preventing the deal. 

In the several suits brought b} r the attor- 
ney general in 1886 to dissolve the Anthra- 
cite Coal Combination and Trunk Line 
Pool, in relation to which it was said at the 
time that the attorney general was attempt- 
ing to regulate two thousand million dollars 
of capital, Mr. Olmsted appeared alone as 
counsel for the New York Central Railroad 
Company, the Delaware, Lackawanna and 
Western Railroad Company, Lake Shore 
and Michigan Southern Railway Company, 
Buffalo, New York and Philadelphia Rail- 
road Company, New York, Lake Erie an d 
Western Railroad Compan} 7 , the Pennsylva- 
nia Coal Company, Delaware and Hudson 
Canal Company, the Lehigh Valley Railroad 
Company, and as associate counsel for most 
of the other companies concerned in the 
suit. These suits were without a doubt the. 
most important ever brought in the State. 
The suit against the Trunk Line Pool was 
abandoned because of the passage by Con- 
gress of the inter-State commerce law. The 
case against the Anthracite Coal Combina- 
tion was decided in favor of Mr. Olmsted's 
clients, the court refusing to grant the in- 
junction asked for by the attorney general. 

Mr. Olmsted was attorney for the several 
defendants in the equity suit brought by the 
attorney general in 1891 to compel the disso- 
lution of what was known as the " Reading 
Combine." He conducted the examination 
of the witnesses with consummate skill, but 
the case never reached the point of argument, 
owing to the voluntary abrogation of the 
leases by the parties themselves. 

The length of this sketch forbids mention 
of but a very few of the many highly im- 
portant cases in which Mr. Olmsted has been 
concerned since his admission to the bar. 
Among his more recent victories was that 
achieved in establishing the constitutionality 
of the act of 1893, providing for controllers 
in place of auditors in counties having 
150,000 population. 

The county of Schuylkill had met with 
great losses through the dishonesty of her 
commissioners in the construction of a court 



456 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



house, owing to the fact that the auditors did 
not audit their accounts until the end of the 
year, when it was too late to make adequate 
recovery from the commissioners. 

Luzerne county was about building a court 
house. These were the only two counties 
having 150,000 population which did not 
already have controllers. The constitution- 
ality of the act of 1893 was contested by the 
auditors and commissioners of the two 
counties and was declared unconstitutional 
by the Supreme Court. In 1895 the Legis- 
lature passed another act in almost the same 
language. The county commissioners and 
the county auditors refused to obey its pro- 
visions. An action was again brought to 
test its constitutionality, and Judge Lynch, 
of Luzerne county, again declared it to be 
unconstitutional. An appeal was taken to 
the Supreme Court, and the two counties se- 
cured the services of Mr. Olmsted, who had 
not been concerned in either of the other 
cases. On argument the Supreme Court 
sustained the constitutionalit} 7 of the act and 
ousted the county auditors from office. 
While not involving as large an amount of 
money as many of his other cases, this vic- 
tory was regarded as one of the most notable 
in Mr. Olmsted's remarkable career. 

Among his services to the State may be 
mentioned the fact that Mr. Olmsted framed 
the revenue act of 1874 and also the revenue 
act of 1877. Both of these acts passed in the 
exact form in which they were prepared and 
both withstood all attacks that were made 
upon them, being sustained by the courts in 
every particular. He devised the tax on the 
franchises of coal mining companies in sec- 
tion 7 of the act of 1874. Previous to that 
time the State had taxed the anthracite coal 
mined by the carrying companies, which tax 
was believed to be rendered invalid by the 
new Constitution. To avoid that the tax 
upon the franchises of coal companies was 
devised and its constitutionality was sus- 
tained by the Supreme Court in the case of 
the Commonwealth vs. Kittanning Coal 
Company. The State derived an immense 
revenue from this tax until so much being 
found unnecessary it was repealed in 1879. 
He also devised the tax on gross premiums 
of insurance companies, found in the act of 
1877, and which was sustained by the courts 
after combined assaults by the insurance 
companies, and under which the Common- 
wealth has collected hundreds of thousands 
of dollars. 



Mr. Olmsted is president and general 
counsel of the Beech Creek Railroad Com- 
pany, of the Buffalo and Susquehanna 
Railroad Company, and of the Coudersport 
and Wellsboro' Railroad Company. He is a 
director in the Pine Creek Railroad Com- 
pany, the Coudersport and Pine Creek Rail- 
road Company, the Clearfield Bituminous 
Coal Corporation, and the Commonwealth 
Guarantee Trust and Safe Deposit Company, 
of Harrisburg, as well as being largely in- 
terested in the various industrial enterprises 
of the city of Harrisburg. 

As a lawyer his fame extends beyond the 
limits of the Commonwealth of Pennsyl- 
vania, and as an expert on all questions of 
constitutional corporate taxation he has, 
perhaps, no equal in the United States. 
His practice is as extensive as that of any 
lawyer in the Commonwealth, and none are 
consulted by as large a clientage among the 
corporations of the Nation. His legal argu- 
ments are marvels of clearness and erudi- 
tion. It is not too much to say that he 
never goes into court without being fully 
prepared to meet every possible point that 
may be raised by his adversary. He is, 
therefore, never surprised by any of the de- 
velopments of a case, and it is to this fact, 
as much as to any other, that he owes his 
remarkable success. While a master of lan- 
guage, he uses none of the arts of rhetoric 
in his arguments. He relies upon none of 
the tricks of the elocutionist, but depends 
for his victories upon a plain, energetic ex- 
position of the law and a skillful marshalling 
of the facts. 

Mr. Olmsted is unmarried, is fond of so- 
ciety, and is a devotee of field and aquatic 
sports. He is both a judge and lover of 
good horses, rides and drives well, and his 
stable contains some of the finest animals in 
the country. He is a frequent visitor to 
Europe, and has travelled extensively 
throughout the United States. 

He has never filled any political position 
since his admission to the bar, except in 
1879, when his party nominated him with- 
out his consent to fill the vacancy in select 
council caused by the election of C. L. 
Bailey as a member of the Legislature, and 
three successive Democratic nominees have 
declined to run against him ; he was elected 
without opposition. 

Mr. Olmsted has always been a Republi 
can in politics, an earnest worker and a 
liberal contributor in the campaigns of his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



457 



party. On September 4, 1896, the Republi- 
can County Convention, of Dauphin county, 
nominated him by acclamation as its candi- 
date for Congress in the district composed 
of the counties of Dauphin, Lebanon and 
Perry and upon August 11, 1896, he was 
nominated by the district conference. He 
will undoubtedly be elected, and probably 
by the largest majority ever given to a can- 
didate in the district. His qualifications for 
the position are ideal, and he will at once 
take rank among the foremost men in pub- 
lic life. 

Such in brief is the career of one of the 
most remarkable members of the Pennsyl- 
vania bar. If his success has been extra- 
ordinary, it is because he brought to his 
profession the ambition, energy, stability, 
integrity and perseverance which character- 
ize the highest type of the American citi- 
zen.— W. C. F. 



Fox, John E., attorney, Harrisburg, Pa., 
was born at Hummelstown, Dauphin county, 
Pa.-, November 27, 1861. His paternal an- 
cestors were English Quakers, born in Devon- 
shire, near Plymouth, who came to America 
in 1760 and settled near Germantown, Pa., 
until 1800. His maternal ancestors were 
German, and were from near Zurich, Switzer- 
land. John Fox, great-grandfather of John 
E. Fox, came to Dauphin county and settled 
near Hummelstown. His children were: 
John, afterwards sheriff of the county, 
George, grandfather of John E. Fox, James, 
Richard, Thomas, and one daughter, who 
married John Phillips, who about 1829 
represented his district in Congress. George 
Fox had five sons : Richard, who lived and 
died at Hummelstown, John E., who lived 
and died at Philadelphia, James, who was a 
member of the pauphin county bar and 
died in 1858, Abner, of Missouri, and 
Thomas G., of Hummelstown, who married 
Diana Hershey. Dr. and Mrs. Thomas G. 
Fox are the parents of John E. 

John E. Fox was reared at Hummelstown 
and received his primary education there. 
He studied at Lafayette College, Easton, Pa., 
and was graduated with the class of 1885. 
He also received from this institution the 
degree of A. M. After graduation he taught 
the grammar school at Hummelstown for 
two years. He read law under Weiss & Gil- 
bert. He completed his education by a tour 
of foreign travel, and returned to Harrisburg. 
July 23, 1888, he was admitted to the Dau- 



phin county bar, and he has since that time 
practiced law in the city, mainly in the 
Court of Common Pleas and in the Orphans' 
Court. He enjoys a large and lucrative prac- 
tice. In the spring of 1889 he traveled over 
the United States and made a personal obser- 
vation of his own country, in order that he 
might be able to intelligently compare and 
contrast it with foreign countries. In 1891 
he made a complete circuit of the globe, solely 
for personal pleasure and improvement. He 
visited Italy, Egypt, Arabia, India, Siam, 
China and Japan, not overlooking other im- 
portant regions. Mr. Fox has gratified his 
literary and professional tastes by the collec- 
tion of a library hardly excelled in its tech- 
nical and literary treasures bj T any library in 
the city. 

He is active in politics in connection with 
the Republican part}'. He served as delegate 
from his congressional district to the Repub- 
lican National Convention at Minneapolis 
in 1892. He is president of his college class 
organization and prominent in the alumni 
society of his college. He is interested as a 
stockholder in the Harrisburg Trust Com- 
pany, the Wilkes-Barre and Wyoming Val- 
ley Traction Company, Southwestern Mis- 
souri Electric Company, Citizens Passenger 
Railway Company of Harrisburg, People's 
Bridge Company, Harrisburg and Cornwall 
Turnpike Company, Mechanicsburg Electric 
Railway Company, Brook wood Traction Com- 
pany, Farmers Bank of Hummelstown, and 
the Chestnut Street Market Company. He 
has also large real estate interests in the city. 
Mr. Fox is a member of the Harrisburg Club 
and of the Benevolence Club. He is a sup- 
porter of the city library and of the Y. M. C. 
A. He is not married. 



Brightbill, Oscar K., attorney-at-law, was 
born at Harrisburg, December 9, 1865. He 
is a son of Jacob A. and Catherine (Bender) 
Brightbill. His father was born in Susque- 
hanna township, and spent the greater part 
of his life in Harrisburg, where for fifteen 
years he held the position of register clerk 
in the postoffice. During the latter years 
of his life he was engaged as tester of steel 
in the Bailey iron and steel works. He died 
December 31, 1892, highly honored by those 
who knew him best, and universally re- 
garded as a man faithful and kind in all the 
relations of life. His widow still resides in 
Harrisburg. 

Oscar K. Brightbill took the regular course 



458 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of studies pursued in the city schools of Har- 
risburg, and was graduated from the high 
school in 1885. He was engaged for one 
year in the capacity of accountant in the 
office of H. B. Mitchell. In 1886 he began 
the study of law in the office of C. H. Berg- 
ner, Esq. He was admitted to the bar of 
Dauphin county, October 9, 1888, and to 
practice in the Supreme Court in May, 1892. 
He was a candidate for the office of county 
solicitor in 1894, but was defeated by Albert 
Millar, Esq. He is a member of the Junior 
Order of United American Mechanics. In 
politics he is a Republican. He attends the 
Lutheran church. 



Kister, William H., attorney-at-law, was 
born at Loganton, Clinton county, Pa., July 
15, 1855, son of Jacob and Mary 0. (Zellers) 
Kister, both born in Pennsylvania and of 
German ancestry. The father was born in 
Lehigh county, July 4, 1830 ; removed with 
his parents, when about five years old, to 
Clinton county, and resided near Jersey 
Shore about one year. He was a shoemaker 
and had contracts for supplying the army 
with shoes. Later he was engaged in the 
lumber business, but has lived a retired life 
for some years. The mother was born Sep- 
tember, 1834. Of their five children, four 
are living: William H. ; Sarah, wife of 
Charles A. Weaver, residing at Osceola Mills, 
Clearfield county, Pa. ; Emma F., wife of 
Jacob 0. Berm, Osceola Mills ; James T., 
Pittsburgh, Pa. The father is a prominent 
man in Clinton county, and has filled im- 
portant offices and places of trust with effi- 
ciency and credit. 

William H. was reared to manhood in 
Clinton county, and received his education 
in the public schools of that county, complet- 
ing it by a collegiate course in Franklin and 
Marshall College, at Lancaster, from which 
he was graduated in the class of 1875. He 
opened a private school at Milton, Northum- 
berland county, and was later professor of 
Latin and rhetoric in the Collegiate Insti- 
tute at Henry, 111., and while holding this 
position was appointed to the superinten- 
dency of the city and county schools, occupy- 
ing both positions at the same time. In 1887 
he was elected to represent a district com- 
posed of Marshall and three other adjoining 
counties in the Illinois Legislature for two 
years. In 1889 he returned to Pennsylvania 
and located at Harrisburg, where he was 
shortly after admitted to the bar, and has 



since that time been engaged in a general 
practice. Mr. Kister was married, January 
25, 1876, to Miriam Kling, daughter of Adam 
S. and Lucinda Kling. They have no chil- 
dren. Mr. Kister is a member of the Grand 
Lodge of F. & A. M. of Illinois, of Marshall 
Lodge, No. 63, of Henry, 111., and of a com- 
mandery. In his political views Mr. Kister 
is a Democrat. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the German Reformed church. 



Backenstoe, Clayton H, attorney-at-law, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in West Hanover 
township, Dauphin county, Pa. He is the 
eldest son of ex-county commissioner John H. 
Backenstoe and Mary E. Backenstoe. He 
attended the district schools of West Han- 
over township until he was nine years of 
age, when his parents removed to Derry 
township, near the village of Union Deposit, 
where they now reside. He was a pupil in 
the district school of this township until he 
was fifteen, when he entered Lebanon Val- 
ley College, where he studied for one year. 
For the three years ensuing he taught in the 
common schools, after which he re-entered 
Lebanon Valley College, from which he was 
graduated in the class of 1887. He was the 
orator of his class and the chief editor of the 
class journal. 

After his graduation he at once registered 
as a student of law with the distinguished 
firm of Fleming & McCarrell, Harrisburg, 
Pa. The senior member of the firm, Hon. 
David Fleming, dying soon after this regis- 
tration, Mr. Backenstoe continued his 
studies under the direction of the junior 
partner, Hon. Samuel J. M. McCarrell, whose 
great ability and commanding position at 
the bar assured him of thorough instruction 
and skillful guidance. In October, 1889, Mr. 
Backenstoe was admitted to practice in the 
several courts of Dauphin county, and was 
soon in the enjoyment of an extensive and 
increasing legal business, an important part 
of which is in the Court of Common Pleas 
and Orphans' Court, in the settlement of 
decendents' estates. He has also been con- 
nected, as counsel for the accused, with a 
number of important criminal cases ; a noted 
instance is the case of Andrew Undergast, 
charged with the murder of his wife; in 
this case Mr. Backenstoe was associated with 
J. C. Nissley, Esq., as counsel for the accused, 
for whom they obtained a verdict of acquit- 
tal on the capital charge, the Commonwealth 
being forced to accept a plea of felonious 






tA.B»+oi.c. £„ e 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



459 



assault and battery. Mr. Backenstoe was 
admitted in 1891 to practice before the 
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. 

Mr. Backenstoe is among the most active 
young members of the Republican party, his 
voice being heard from the stump in every 
. campaign, not only in the county, but also 
throughout the State. He has frequently 
served his party ably as a delegate to county 
and State conventions, and has been chosen 
as a confrere in the various congressional 
conferences of his district. He is financially 
identified with various interests of the 
county and State, being a stockholder in a 
number of financial institutions of Harris- 
burg. His growing practice is indubitably 
the achievement of his exceptional energy 
and untiring application to his work, dis- 
played in the painstaking and skillful 
preparation of his cases, and his watchful 
fidelity to the interests confided to his hands. 



Calder, Col. Howard L., attorn ey-at-law, 
was born June 16, 1864, in the old Calder 
homestead, 413 Market street, Harrisburg, 
Pa. He is a descendant of William Calder, 
who settled in this city in the early days of 
the century and was' extensively engaged as 
a stage line proprietor and contractor. His 
father, the Rev. James Calder, D. D., was well 
known in the affairs of our city and was 
prominent in educational circles, having 
served as president of Hillsdale College, 
Michigan, and the Pennsylvania State Col- 
lege, respectively. Howard L. received his 
early education in the preparatory depart- 
ment of the State College and the Harrisburg 
high school, graduating from the latter as 
valedictorian in the class of 1883. He at 
once entered Bucknell College and graduated 
as third honor man of a large class in 1887, 
being awarded the prize for the senior ora- 
tion. The Master's oration was assigned to 
him by his alma mater as a recognition of 
his ability and standing and was acceptably 
delivered in 1890, the subject being "Ele- 
mentary Law in the College Curriculum." 
After completing his college course in 1887, 
Mr. Calder registered as a student at law with 
Hon. Robert Snodgrass and was admitted to 
the Dauphin county bar in the fall of 1889. 
Since his admission he has made rapid strides 
in his profession. His ability as a public 
speaker has given him great popularity 
among all classes and his careful application 
to matters entrusted to his care has estab- 
lished for him a substantial and growing- 



clientage. At the present time, in connection 
with A. Wilson Norris, Esq., his law partner, 
he represents some of the largest estates 
in the city, having made a marked success 
in the Orphans' Court. He has served in the 
Pennsylvania National Guard for twelve 
years. Enlisting as a private he is now aide- 
de-camp with the rank of captain on the staff 
of Brig. Gen. J. P. S. Gobin. He is the pres- 
ent (1896) Worshipful Master of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M., and is connected 
with other prominent civic and social organi 
zations. 



Hain, William M., attorney-at-law, was 
born in Lower Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., September 9, 1863. He is a son 
of George and Sarah (Uhrich) Hain, the 
former a native of Dauphin county and still 
residing in Lower Paxton township, the latter 
a native of Lebanon county, died in Lower 
Paxton township, February 20, 1895. The 
Hain family were among the very earlies; 
settlers of Dauphin county and Lower Pax- 
ton township, where the great-grandparents 
located in the early history of the county. 
The parents of William M. had born to them 
twelve children, eight of whom are living, 
namely: George, of Harrisburg; Jacob, John 
and David, prominent farmers of Lower Pax- 
ton township; William M., Edwin S., and 
Henry F., of Harrisburg, and Galen, for- 
merly attendingand teaching school in Lower 
Paxton township, and now studying den- 
tistry. The grandfather. George Hain, was 
count}' commissioner of Dauphin county for 
many years. William M. was reared to man- 
hood" in his native township, and received 
his primary education in the public schools 
there. He attended Muhlenberg College of 
Allentowh, Pa., and also Lebanon Valley 
College at Annville, Pa. He was graduated 
from the latter institution with the class of 
1888. He removed to Harrisburg and read 
law with Weiss & Gilbert and John A. Her- 
man. He was admitted to the bar of Dau- 
phin county in 1890, and entered at once 
upon the practice of his profession at this 
bar. He has been a notary public since 
1890. He is a member of the Junior Order 
of American Mechanics. In politics he is a 
Democrat. He is a member of the Reformed 
church. He is a popular young man with 
a large clientage in both civil and criminal 
causes, and his prospects for a prosperous 
career are flattering. 



460 



BIO GRA PEICA L ENUTCL OPEDIA 



Meyers, William K., attorney -at-law, was 
born in Bedford, Bedford county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 27, 1867, and is the youngest son of 
Benjamin F. and Susan C. (Koontz) Meyers. 
In the spring of 1873 he removed to Harris- 
burg with his parents. His primary educa- 
tion was received in the public schools of 
Harrisburg, supplemented by a thorough 
course in the high school, from which he was 
graduated with the class of 1886, with the 
honor of valedictorian of the class. Imme- 
diately after completing his education in the 
high school he became connected with the 
editorial department of the Harrisburg Pa- 
triot. He subsequently studied law with the 
firm of Mum ma & Shoop and was admitted 
to the Dauphin county bar in the spring of 

1890. During the term of 1890 and 1891 he 
attended the law department of Yale Col- 
lege, New Haven, Conn., and was graduated 
from that institution with the class of June, 

1891, receiving the degree of LL. B., and in 
July, 1891, began the practice of his chosen 
profession in Harrisburg. 

Mr. Meyers was married in Harrisburg, 
November 14, 1893, to Miss Mary Hunter, 
daughter of George W. and Mary Hunter, 
both deceased, and to their union has been 
born one child, Mary Elizabeth, born April 
23, 1895. 

Mr. Meyers has held the office of chairman 
of the Democratic committee for five years, 
and was a delegate to the Democratic Con- 
vention in Chicago in 1896. He is a mem- 
ber of the Episcopalian church and Mrs. 
Meyers belongs to the Presbyterian church. 



McConkey, Charles B., attorney-at-law, 
was born at Harrisburg, Pa., December 29, 
1869. He is a son of the late Eldridge and 
Fannie M. McConkey. His father, a native 
of Chester county, Pa., studied at Yale Col- 
lege for three years and was a graduate of 
the Havard law school. He was the secre- 
tary of the Harrisburg Gas Company for four- 
teen years. In politics he was a Democrat, 
and served in the city council. He was twice 
married, being in the first united with Cath- 
arine Jones, who was the mother of Charles 
B. He died in 1887, and his second wife 
survives him. 

Charles B. received his primary education 
in the Harrisburg schools, and was gradu- 
ated from Yale College with the class of 1888. 
He also studied one year in the Yale law 
school. He . read law in the office of Weiss 
& Gilbert, at Harrisburg, and was admitted 



to the Dauphin county bar in 1891, since 
which time he has conducted a successful 
practice. He is a member of the Harrisburg 
Club. In politics he is a Democrat. John 
McConkey, highway commissioner of Har- 
risburg, is his brother, and his sisters are 
Mary, wife of R. C. Mercer, residing in Hun- 
tingdon, Pa., and Sarah B., who resides at 
Harrisbura:. 



Lemer, Milton M., attorney-at-law, was 
born at Harrisburg, January 21, 1865. He 
is a son of La Rue and Rebecca (Marshall) 
Lemer. His father is a native of Lisburn, 
Cumberland county, Pa., and has been en- 
gaged in the photographing business since 
1860. His mother is a native of Philadel- 
phia. Four children have been born to 
them, of whom Milton M. is the eldest. The 
other children are Mary A., May and La Rue, 
Jr. Milton M. received his primary educa- 
tion in the schools of Harrisburg. He was 
graduated from the high school in 1882, and 
from the Harrisburg Academy in 1884. 
Later he attended Yale University and was 
graduated from that institution in 1889. He 
read law with James I. Chamberlin, of Har- 
risburg, and was admitted to the Dauphin 
count}' bar in March, 1892, and to practice 
in the Supreme Court in 1894. He was mar- 
ried in Harrisburg, October 18, 1894, to Lu- 
cinda B. Black, daughter of the late Thomas 
J. and Mary F. Black, of Harrisburg. His 
son, Milton M. Lemer, Jr., was born August 
22, 1895. 



Bailey, Charles L., Jr., Harrisburg, a<- 
torney-at-law, a successful practitioner at the 
Dauphin county bar, was born in Harris- 
burg, June 26, 1864, and is a son of Charles 
L. and Emma Harriet (Doll) Bailey. 

His primary education was acquired under 
private tutors, his preparator}' course for 
college at St. Paul's School, Concord, N. H., 
and the Phillips Academy, Andover, Mass., 
and his collegiate course in Yale College, 
New Haven, Conn., from which institution 
he graduated in 1886. 

During this year he commenced reading 
law with Messrs. Hall & Jordan, of Harris- 
burg. In October, 1888, he was admitted to 
the Dauphin county bar, and in 1892 to the 
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. 

He was married in Harrisburg, March 10, 
1892, to Miss Mary Frances Seiler, daughter 
of Daniel W. and Eliza (Clark) Seiler, and 
their union has been blessed with two chil- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



461 



dren : Mary Emily and Frances. In politi- 
cal views Mr. Bailey is a Republican and in 
religious views an Episcopalian and attends 
St. Stephen's church. 



Shoemaker, Homer, attorney-at-law, 9 
North Third street, Harrisburg, Pa. ; born 
in Tioga county, Pa. ; son of Rev. Elisha 
Shoemaker; educated at Dickinson Semi- 
nary, Williamsport, Pa., and Dickinson Col- 
lege, Carlisle, Pa. ; read law with the late A. 
B. Sharpe, Esq., Carlisle, Pa. ; graduated 
from the Dickinson School of Law, Carlisle, 
Pa., and was admitted to the bar of Cumber- 
land county in 1892 ; admitted to the bar of 
Dauphin county in 1893. 



Carter, William Justin, attorney-at-law, 
Harrisburg, was born at Richmond, Va., 
May 28, 1866. He is a son of Edmund and 
Elizabeth Carter, both natives of Virginia, 
and both residing in Caroline county, Va. 
He received his primary education in Rich- 
mond, and in 1878, with his parents, re- 
moved to Caroline county, and there at- 
tended the district public school. In 1883 
he entered the Virginia Normal and Colle- 
giate Institute, at Petersburg, attending the 
session of 1883-84. He then returned to 
Caroline count}', and was a teacher in the 
public schools for two sessions. While en- 
gaged in teaching he studied privately, and 
in 1886 he entered Howard University, at 
Washington, D. C, and remained there four 
sessions, graduating with the class of 1890. 
In October, 1890, he entered the law de- 
partment of this university, and graduated 
with the degree of Bachelor of Laws on the 
30th of May, 1892, standing third in a class 
of thirty. He was licensed as an attorney 
and counselor-atdaw by Chief Justice Lewis 
and Justice Fauntelroy, of the Supreme 
Court of Virginia, in the fall of 1892. 
Afterwards he removed to Anne Arundel 
county, Md., and was admitted to practice 
before the Circuit Court of that county, and 
the Supreme Court of Baltimore city, in 
1892. For the two following years he 
practiced his profession at Annapolis, Md. 
On March 21, 1894, he was admitted to the 
Dauphin county bar, and began a general 
practice in the city of Harrisburg, in June 
of that year. 

Mr. Carter was married at Annapolis, 
Md., February 17, 1894, to Elizabeth M. 



Allen, daughter of Rev. J. C. Allen, pastor 
of the First Baptist church, of Baltimore, 
Md., and Mary P. Allen. One child has 
been born to them, Harlan A., born Novem- 
ber 25, 1894. 

In political views Mr. Carter is a Republi- 
can. He is a member of Lincoln Memorial 
Congregational church, of Washington, D. 
O, and Mrs. Carter is a member of the Capi- 
tol Street Presbyterian church. Mr. Carter 
is a member of the Golden Rule Lodge, No. 
1415, G. U. 0. 0. F., of Annapolis, Md. He 
is the first and only colored lawyer admitted 
to the Dauphin county bar. 



Swartz, Joshua W., attorney and coun- 
selor-at-law, was born in Lower Swatara 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., June 9, 1867. 
He is a son of Martin N. and Harriet (Wal- 
lower) Swartz, the former a native of Lower 
Swatara, the latter of Susquehanna town- 
ship. Martin M. Swartz died September 5, 
1878; his wife is still living and residing in 
Lower Swatara township aforesaid. The 
father was a farmer and a respected citizen 
of Lower Swatara, where he spent his life. 
They had nine children, five of whom are 
still living : Christian L., residing on the home 
farm; Oliver W., a merchant of Middletown, 
Pa.; Joshua W.; LB., and E. G., lawyers, 
and partners in the business of their brother, 
Joshua W. 

The primary education of Joshua W. 
Swartz was received in the schools at home. 
He learned the trade of carpenter and stair- 
builder, at which he worked in Middletown 
four years. In 1887 he entered the Lebanon 
Valley College, and in the meantime took a 
commercial course in the Williamsport Busi- 
ness College. In 1888 he again entered 
Lebanon Valle} 7 College. He read law with 
John A. Herman, of Harrisburg. He en- 
tered the Dickinson law school, and gradu- 
ated June 6, 1892. On the 7th of June, 
1892, he was admitted to the Cumberland 
county bar, and July 12, 1892, to Dauphin 
county bar. He was admitted to practice in 
the Supreme Court June 1, 1896. In Octo- 
ber, 1892, he began practice in Harrisburg. 

He was married in Indiana county, Pa., 
April 13, 1893, to Idella M. Goheen, daugh- 
ter of John and Margaret (Gahagan) Goheen, 
of Indiana county, Pa. They have one son, 
Joshua G., born April 24, 1894. Mr. Swartz 
is a staunch Republican. He attends the 
Lutheran church. 



462 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Zimmerman, Samuel H., attorney-at-law, 
notary public, was born in Lower Swatara 
township, near Higbspire, November 23, 
18G9. He is a son of Valentine and Sabina 
B. (Felty) Zimmerman, both natives of Dau- 
phin county, and both residing in Lower 
Swatara township: His father is a promi- 
nent farmer in this township, and has spent 
his life there. He and his wife had born to 
them a family of twelve children, nine of 
whom are living: Philip A.; Mary A.; El- 
len C, wife of John Bausman, of Middletown, 
Pa.; Clara I., wife of Joseph M. Sauder, Mid- 
dletown, Pa.; Martha M., wife of George A. 
Wolffe, Highspire, Pa.; Samuel H.; John D.; 
Lydia D., and Solomon A. 

Samuel H. was reared to manhood and 
received his primary education in the public 
schools of his township. He completed his 
education in the Steelton high school, grad- 
uating from this institution in 1887. He 
also spent two years at Bucknell University, 
Lewisburg, Pa. He was graduated from the 
classical course of Ohio Normal University, 
Ada, Ohio, with the class of 1891. He at- 
tended the law department of this same uni- 
versity, and by taking the studies of two 
years in one year, he received his diploma 
in 1892, instead of 1893. He registered with 
John C. Nissley, Januaiy 23, 1893, as a 
student of law, and read with him for two 
years. During this time he was elected and 
served as principal of the Highspire public 
schools, filling this position for the full term 
of 1893. In the fall of 1894 he was elected 
and served as principal of the Ebenezer high 
school of Lower Swatara township. On March 
4, 1895, he was admitted to practice law in the 
Dauphin county courts, and has practiced in 
these courts since that date. Mr. Zimmer- 
man is a member of Star of America Com- 
mandery.No. 113, Knights of Malta, of Har- 
risburg. He is a member of the Church of 
God. He seems to inherit his father's inde- 
pendent spirit in politics, and in the cam- 
paign of 1895 he stood as the candidate of 
the People's party for the office of district 
attorney of his county. 



Norms, Alexander Wilson, son 
0. Norris, M. D., and Susan Matilda 
Norris, was born June 6, 1872, at 
Clinton county, Pa. On his father's 
is descended from an old Virginia 
His great-grandfather, John Norris, 
native State shortly after the war 
Revolution, and settled in Mifflin 



of John 
(Stine) 
Salona, 
side he 
family, 
left his 
of the 
county, 



Pa. On the maternal side his ancestors 
were of German descent. His great-great- 
grandfather, Abraham Stein, emigrated to 
this country from Germany in 1748, and 
settled in what is now Jonestown, Lebanon 
county. Mr. Norris' father, Dr. John C. 
Norris, a prominent physician of Clinton 
county and an officer in the Union army 
during the late war, died when his son was 
less than a year old. Being thus deprived 
of his father's care the boy was adopted and 
raised by his uncle, the late Col. A. Wilson 
Norris, for years a prominent figure in 
Pennsylvania politics and auditor general 
of the State at the time of his death in 1888. 
Mr. Norris was educated in the private 
schools of Philadelphia and at the Univer- 
sity of Pennsylvania. He came to Harris- 
burg in 1890 and began the study of law 
with Weiss & Gilbert. He was admitted 
to the bar in June, 1893, immediately upon 
his coming of age. He is associated in the 
practice of law with Col. Howard L. Calder 
under the firm name of Calder & Norris. 
He has been an active figure in politics ever 
since settling in Dauphin county and is 
looked upon as one of the younger leaders 
in the Republican party. Mr. Norris has 
an enviable reputation as a speaker, both on 
the hustings and in court. He has been 
twice elected vice-president of the Republi- 
can League of Clubs in Pennsylvania. He 
has been a member of the National Guard 
of Pennsylvania for six or seven years and 
at present an aide-de-camp on the staff of 
Gen. J. P. S. Gobin, with the rank of cap- 
tain. He has served as president of the 
Friendship Fire Company, No. 1, the oldest 
fire company in Harrisburg; is a member 
of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. 
M., and of a number of other organizations. 
Captain Norris is a member of the Penn- 
sylvania Historical Society, the Dauphin 
County Historical Society, and of several 
other historical and genealogical societies. 
He also holds membership in a number of 
clubs in this city and in Philadelphia. 



Haldeman, Donald C, attorney-at-law, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., July 29, 1871, son of Richard J. 
and Margaretta (Cameron) Haldeman. Rich- 
ard J. Haldeman was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., May 19, 1831 ; Mrs. Haldeman 
also was a native of Dauphin county and a 
daughter of Simon and Margaretta (Brua) 
Cameron. Their children are : Donald C, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



463 



Eliza E., and Richard C. Mr. Haldeman 
was a member of a Harrisburg lodge, F. & 
A. M. He was a Democrat. He died Octo- 
ber 1, 1886, aged fifty-five years. Mrs. Hal- 
deman survives him, is in good health and 
resides in Harrisburg. She is a consistent 
member of the Presbyteriun church. 

Donald C. Haldeman received his ele- 
mentary education in private schools at Har- 
risburg, which he attended until he was six- 
teen years old. He then went to Andover, 
Mass., for a two years' course in Phillips 
Academy, which prepared him for college. 
In 1889 he was admitted to Yale University, 
pursued the regular classical course and was 
graduated with the class of 1893. In the 
same year he entered the office of John H. 
Weiss, Esq., where he read law for two years, 
and was admitted to the Dauphin county 
bar in June, 1895. He at once opened an 
office for the practice of his profession in 
Harrisburg. Mr. Haldeman is a Republi- 
can. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
church. 



Kunkel, Paul A., attorney-at-law and 
notary public, son of George Z. and Isabella 
(Herr) Kunkel, of Harrisburg. In March, 
1895, he was elected borough solicitor of 
Middletown, Pa. He was married in Mid- 
dletown, November, 1893, to Mary Isabella 
King, daughter of Arthur and Annie King, 
of York, now residing in Middletown. To 
them has been born one child, Arthur. 



Wolf, William, real estate and insurance 
agent and notary public, was born in Hech- 
ingen, Province of Hohenzollern, Prussia, 
August 13, 1833. He is a son of Elias and 
Clara (Einstein) Wolf, both natives of Prus- 
sia. Elias Wolf was a merchant. He spent 
his life in his native country, and died No- 
vember 4, 1865. His widow came to Amer- 
ica in 1866, and made her home with her 
son, William Wolf. She died December 19, 
1873. Their family consisted of six children, 
three of whom are living: William, Caroline, 
wife of Isaac Meyer, residing in Brooklyn, 
N. Y.; Eliza, wife of Abraham Allgaier, re- 
siding at Mount Carmel, Northumberland 
county, Pa. 

William Wolf spent his youth in his native 
land. He received his primary education 
in the public schools, and subsequently en- 
joyed the advantages of a collegiate course. 
He then became clerk in a mercantile and 
banking house, and was so engaged until 



1854, when he came to America. Two weeks 
after reaching Philadelphia he proceeded to 
Harrisburg, where he has resided for the 
past forty-two years. Here he was first en- 
gaged as salesman in a mercantile house 
until 1864. In this year he opened a retail 
dry goods store, which he continued to con- 
duct for twelve years. In 1876 he was 
obliged to abandon this business on account 
of failing health. He took up first the real 
estate, afterwards the insurance business. 
He was appointed notary public in 1881. 

He was married in Harrisburg, July 15, 
1S59, to Miss Matilda, daughter of Solomon 
and Amelia Wolf, born in the same province 
as himself, and then residents of Gratz, Dau- 
phin county. They have had five children, 
two of whom are living: Emma, widow of 
Theodore H. Speier, of Harrisburg, and 
Helen, wife of Leon Simon, a prominent 
cloak manufacturer of Baltimore, Md. The 
deceased children are: Simon, died May 26, 
1882, aged twenty, a bright, promising young 
man, who had graduated at the Philadelphia 
College of Pharmacy on March 10, 1882 ; 
Elias, died December 30, 1879, at the age of 
thirteen years, and Frederick, who died in 
infancy. Mr. Wolf is a member of Perse- 
verance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M.; Dauphin 
Lodge, No. 160, and Dauphin Encampment, 
No. 10, I. 0. O. F.; Council No. 499, Royal 
Arcanum; State Capital Lodge, No. 2,030, 
Knights of Honor; Harris Lodge, No. 983, 
Knights of Ladies of Honor ; Salem Lodge, 
No. 26, Independent Order of Sons of Cove- 
nant; Harrisburg Lodge, No. 103, Kesher 
Shel Barsel. Mr. Wolf is independent in 
his political views. He attends the Jewish 
Tabernacle Ohev Sholem. Mr. Wolf was 
president of the congregation for about 
twenty-three years. He served with distin- 
guished ability and success. Through his 
zeal, energy, tact and devotion the congrega- 
tion was enabled to purchase a building for 
a house of worship, school and meeting 
rooms. He was tendered a resolution of 
thanks on his declining further election. 



Uhlek, Henry, real estate and insurance, 
was born at Harrisburg, Pa., August 3, 1838. 
He is a son of Frederick and Elizabeth 
(Yeager) Uhler. His father was also a native 
of Harrisburg and was born November 18, 
1801. He was a merchant tailor. He spent 
his life in Harrisburg, where he died No- 
vember 14, 1869. His wife, Elizabeth Yeager, 
was born in this city January 21, 1806. She 



464 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



died here March 19, 1885, at the age of eighty 
years. They had a family of eight children, 
of whom four are living : Elizabeth, widow 
of the late George Bergner, of Harrisburg, 
Jeremiah, of Harrisburg, Margaret, and 
Henry, all residing in Harrisburg. 

Henry Uhler was reared in this city and 
has spent his life here, being educated in the 
public schools. He became a clerk in the 
book and stationery store of George Bergner 
and remained in this position until 1861. 
On April 8, 1861, he was appointed assistant 
postmaster and held this office for twenty- 
two years. He was also treasurer of the 
Harrisburg Gas Company from 1868 to 1874. 
He was subsequently engaged in the broker- 
age business for several years. Since 1889 
he has been continuously engaged in his 
present business. 

Mr. Uhler was married in Harrisburg, 
April 11, 1895, to Mary Elizabeth Sherk, 
daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Sherk, 
who was born at Grantville, Dauphin county, 
Pa., July 4, 1849. In political views Mr. 
Uhler is a staunch Republican. 



Brackenridge, Alfred, real estate and 
insurance and notary public, was born in 
Lisburn township, Cumberland county, Pa., 
March 19, 1845. He is a son of Dr. John 
and Rebecca (Pague) Brackenridge. His 
father was an eminent phj'sician and prac- 
ticed in Cumberland count}' the greater part 
of his life. He died at Danville, Lycoming 
county, Pa., in 1851, while comparatively a 
young man. The mother of Alfred still sur- 
vives, and lives at Joliet, 111., at the advanced 
age of seventy-four years. His parents had 
a family of four children : Theodore, resid- 
ing at Salem, Ky. ; Alfred; John E., who 
died at Harrisburg, February, 1895, at the 
age of forty-seven years ; Mary E., wife of 
Thomas Newbold, residing at Joliet, 111. 
When Alfred was about four years old he re- 
moved with his parents to Shippensburg,and 
a short time afterwards to Lycoming county, 
then back to Shippensburg, and after that to 
Newville. While the family were in Lycom- 
ing county the father died. At Shippensburg 
Alfred was reared to manhood and educated 
by Mr. John Givler. He received a common 
school education, and learned the saddler's 
trade. In 1863 he enlisted in company F, 
First battalion, Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
served six months. When discharged, he re- 
turned to Newville and worked at his trade 
until another call was made for volunteers, 



when he re-enlisted in company K, Twentieth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and ser- 
ved until the close of the war. After being dis- 
charged at Harrisburg, he took a position as 
grocery clerk in this city, in which he con- 
tinued three years, during which time he 
took a course in the Business College. In 
1868 he engaged in the grocery business for 
himself, and conducted this business until 
1890. In 1885 he was elected alderman for 
the Second ward. Finding that the duties 
of this office demanded his whole time and 
attention, he closed out his grocer}' business 
and devoted his entire time to his alder- 
manic duties. In 1890 he was re-elected al- 
derman. At the expiration of his second 
term, in May, 1895, he engaged in his present 
business, fie was married at Harrisburg, 
April 17, 1870, to Carrie A. Hummel, who 
was born at Wormleysburg, Cumberland 
county, Pa., December 10, 1843, daughter of 
John P. Hummel, of Clark county, Ohio, 
and Ann Hummel, of Hummelstown, Pa., and 
a granddaughter of the founder of Hummels- 
town. To them have been born four children, 
namely : John Frederick, born February 8, 
1871, died July 11, 1871; Alfred, born June 
3, 1872, died July 3, 1872 ; Valentine Hum- 
mel, born March 7, 1876, now a compositor 
in Harrisburg Telegraph office, and John 
Givler, born December 24, 1880. Mr. Brack- 
enridge is a member of Nazareth Com- 
mandery, No. 125, K. of M., of A. O. U. W., 
of Dauphin Conclave, No. 96, I. O. of H, of 
Robert Tippett Lodge, No. 736, Jr. O. U. A. M., 
and of Post No. 58, G. A. R. Politically 
he is a Republican. He and Mrs. Bracken- 
ridge are members and active workers of 
Fourth Street Zion Lutheran church. 
Mr. Brackenridge has been connected with 
the Sunday-school for thirty years, and sup- 
erintendent of the school for eight years. 
Mr. and Mrs. Brackenridge were also founders 
of a branch church at Springdale. 

The family from which Mrs. Brackenridge 
comes is one of note. Her great-grandfather 
was one of thefounders of Hummelstown. Her 
father was a bridge builder and a prominent 
man in the county. He had a family of 
eight children : Frederick, who died in in- 
fancy ; Calvin, who was drowned in the 
Susquehanna river in 1846; Valentine B., 
residing in Wisconsin ; George Washington, 
died in 1880 at the age of forty years ; Will- 
iam Henry Harrison, residing at Auburn, 
111.; Mrs. Brackenridge; John, who died in 
infancy; Sa villa Elizabeth, wife of Fred- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



465 



erick Garmhausen, residing at Harrisburg. 
The two living brothers of Mrs. Bracken ridge, 
and George W, deceased, enlisted in the 
army as privates at the beginning, and 
served with distinction to the close of the 
war. When they were discharged, the three 
brothers had the rank of captain in three 
different branches of the service, infantry, 
cavalry and artillery. The brothers of Mr. 
Brackenridge also served in the war. John 
E. served six months in company F, First 
regimentjPennsylvania volunteers, and after- 
wards in company G, Fifty-fifth regiment, 
Pennsylvanina volunteers ; Theodore en- 
listed in the One Hundred and Seventh reg- 
iment and served with distinction during the 
whole war, having enlisted twice in the same 
regiment. He was in many engagements, 
was twice taken prisoner, and suffered severe 
hardships. 



Kelker, Luther Reily, second son of 
Rudolph Frederick Kelker and Mary Anne 
Reily, his wife, was born February 29, 1848, 
in Harrisburg, Pa. He was educated in the 
public schools and at Prof. J. F. Seller's 
academy, graduating from the latter insti- 
tution in 1866. The following year he en- 
tered the hardware store of Kelker & Bro., 
remaining with them until April 1, 1878; 
one month later, in connection with his 
brother, William A. Kelker, he opened a 
hardware store under the firm name of Kel- 
ker Bros. In 1883 his brother retired from 
active business, and Mr. Kelker continued 
in his own name until March, 1892, when 
owing to long continued ill-health he was 
compelled to reth'e. A year after he en- 
gaged in the insurance business, and is now 
prosecuting the same successfully. He mar- 
ried, October 7, 1874, Miss Agnes Keys 
Pearsol, second daughter of John H. Pear- 
sol and Cecelia Ober, his wife, of Lancaster, 
Pa. They have three children : Rudolph 
Frederick, Jr., John Pearsol and Mary Reily. 
Mr. Kelker is a member and officer of Mar- 
ket Square Presbyterian church ; a member 
of the Society of the Sons of the Revolu- 
tion ; in politics a Republican ; takes an 
active interest in the institution of Free 
Masonry, and is a past officer in all the 
bodies from the Blue Lodge to the Consis- 
tory, inclusive. 



Parthemore, E. Winfield Scott, was 
born in Highspire July 25, 1852. He was 
the fifth in descent from John Frederick 



Parthemore, who came to Pennsylvania 
from Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany, landing 
in Philadelphia October 20, 1744. He set- 
tled in Derry township, then Lancaster, now 
Dauphin county, where he died in 1752. 
His wife was Anna Maria Weinmann, 
daughter of Philip Weinmann, also from 
Sprendlingen, Germany. They had a large 
family of children, the descendants of whom 
are scattered in many States of the Union. 
The parents of Mr." E. W. S. Parthemore 
were Daniel Parthemore and his wife, 
Nancy Ebersole. The latter was the grand- 
daughter of Ludwig Bretz, who was a soldier 
of the Revolution. His father's grandfather 
also served in the struggle for independence. 
Through the Ebersoles and Bretzes Mr. Par- 
themore is connected with many of the rep- 
resentative families of Dauphin county. He 
was educated in the public schools of his 
native town and at the age of sixteen years 
entered upon mercantile pursuits at High- 
spire and subsequently in Harrisburg. In 
the spring of 1873 he attended one session 
of the Millersville State Normal School, and 
in 1874 a select school at Middletown. Dur- 
ing this period he also taught school, in the 
winter in Powell's Valley and Lower Swatara 
township, and afterwards the secondary 
school in Highspire. In the winter of 1875 
he was employed in the frog and switch de- 
partment of the Pennsylvania Steel Works 
as a machinist, which he followed until 
January of the year following. In July, 
1878, Mr. Parthemore took up his residence 
in Harrisburg, where he now resides. Be- 
ing a prominent Republican he has always 
taken an active part in the various local 
campaigns. He bas represented his ward 
in select council for several j^ears and is 
now a member of the board of school con- 
trol. He is an active member in the 
United Brethren church and has represented 
that denomination as a lay delegate in their 
annual conference. He is one of the most 
active business men in Harrisburg, and is 
conspicuous in insurance and real estate 
circles. Mr. Parthemore is one of the direc- 
tors of the Harrisburg Traction Company, 
the Manufacturing and Boiler Company and 
on the board of managers of the Harrisburg 
Boot and Shoe Manufacturing Company, 
and secretary of the Kelker Street Market 
Companjr. For a number of years he has 
been prominently identified with several 
building and loan associations. For a period 
of twelve years he has been an officer of the 



4(56 



BIO GRA PHIGAL ENGYGL OPEDIA 



Dauphin County Historical Society and has 
taken much interest in historic research. 
He has prepared and published a genealogy 
of the Parthernore family (1885), the Bretz 
family (1890), the records of the Rev. Mr. 
Illing (1891)," Records of Bindnagle Church " 
and "Hill Church in Derry Township," be- 
sides various valuable contributions to the 
history, biography and genealogy of Dauphin 
county. He was one of the founders of the 
Pennsylvania-German Society and is on the 
board of management of that organization. 
Through his great-grandparents he is a 
member of the Pennsylvania Society Sons 
of the Revolution. Mr. Parthernore was 
married June 20, 1878, by Bishop J. J. Gloss- 
brenner to Clara Sarah Early, daughter of 
Daniel Seth Early and his wife Amanda 
A. Mark. They have seven children living. 



Kohler retired from the firm and embarke^ 
in his present business. He is a member 
of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, Olive En- 
campment, No. 56, Susquehanna Lodge, No. 
69, Daughters of Rebecca, I. 0. 0. F. In 
politics he is a Democrat. He attends the 
German Reformed church. 



Kohler, William H., real estate and in- 
surance agent, was born at Harrisburg, 
April 20, 1856. He is a son of Stephen S. 
and Mary E. Kohler, both natives of Con 
solodome, Switzerland. They came to Amer- 
ica in 1833 and located in Harrisburg, where 
they spent the rest of their lives. Thefather 
died January 30, 1891 ; the mother March 
10, 1886. The father was a wheelwright, 
and followed that business for some years 
after his settlement in this city, but during 
the greater part of his residence here he was 
a contractor and builder. He served in the 
United States army during the late rebellion 
for one year as private in company C, Two 
Hundred and Eighth Pennsylvania volun- 
teers. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Ste- 
phen S. Kohler are: Jacob C, ex-chief of 
Harrisburg fire department, Annie, wife of 
John W. Smith, a passenger engineer of the 
Middle division, Pennsylvania railroad, 
William H., Charles A., a track foreman of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, Ed- 
ward S., Laura A., wife of Edward J. 
O'Leary, Emma, wife of John G. Marks, and 
Rosa, wife of Frank S. Nutt. 

William H. Kohler was educated in the 
public schools of Harrisburg, and after leav- 
ing school learned the trade of house car- 
penter, and followed this occupation until 
1887. From 1887 until 1891 he was con- 
nected with the Harrisburg postoffice as 
letter carrier. In 1891 he engaged in the 
planing mill business in connection with 
Henry Geizell, under the firm name of Gei- 
zell & Kohler. This partnership continued 
until December, 1894, at which date Mr. 



Hammond, William B., was born in Phila- 
delphia, Pa., November 25, 1857. He is a 
son of Charles E., paymaster of the United 
States navy, and Elizabeth F. (Buehler) 
Hammond, of Philadelphia. He was reared 
in Bethlehem and Harrisburg, and received 
his education at St. Paul's School at Concord, 
N. H., and Lehigh Universitj', class of 1879. 
After leaving college he engaged with the 
general car record department of the Lehigh 
Valley railroad, and afterwards with the firm 
of Albert, Lewis & Co., near White Haven, 
Pa., in the lumber business. He was a clerk 
for William Buehler & S> n in the insurance 
business. In September, 1884, he became 
partner with Dr. H. B. Buehler, under the 
firm name of Buehler & Hammond, and con- 
tinued until February 1, 1886, when he 
Withdrew from the firm and formed a part- 
nership with Edward Bailey, under the firm 
name of Hammond & Bailey. This firm has 
been successful, and now has the best class 
of business in the city. They represent the 
Pennsylvania Fire, Reliance, Delaware and 
Spring Garden of Philadelphia, Connecti- 
cut of Hartford, Merchants' of Newark, 
American Central of St. Louis, British 
America and Western of Toronto, Imperial, 
Norwich, Union, Northern, Royal, Manches- 
ter and Phoenix of England, Queen and 
Pacific of New York, Mutual Benefit Life 
of Newark, Hartford Steam Boilerlnsurance 
of Hartford, Conn., Employers' Liability of 
England, Lloyd's Plate Glass Insurance 
Company of New York. 

Mr. Hammond is a stockholder in the 
Foundry and Machine Works and the Har- 
risburg Bridge Company. He is a member 
of the Harrisburg Club and a member and 
one of the incorporators of the Inglenook 
Club. _ 

He is a member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M. He is a member of the 
Art Club of Philadelphia. In politics he is 
a Republican. He is a subscriber to the 
Young Men's Christian Association. 

He was married, June 7, 1883, to Miss Jo- 
sephine Forter, daughter of Dr. George W. 
Porter, of Harrisburg, and granddaughter of 









~ A £c-i^^f. £•/.-. i-i, rf, '--•.■: ^s--.. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



469 



Gov. David R. Porter. They have three chil- 
dren : George Porter, Emily Elizabeth and 
Helen Goodwin. He attends St. Stephen's 
Protestant Episcopal church and is a mem- 
ber of the vestry of the church. 



Peters, Thomas Sawyer, real estate and 
insurance agent, Harrisburg, Pa., was born 
in Harrisburg, November 26, 1857. He is a 
son of Benjamin George and Ann Berst 
Peters. Benjamin G. Peters was born in 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., in 
December, 1819. He was for thirty years in 
the hotel business in Harrisburg, and was 
also proprietor of the Highspire distillery. 
He served the city as a member of council, 
and the county as its treasurer. His wife, a 
daughter of John and Barbara Hoerner 
Berst, was born October 6, 1819. Their 
children are : William Henry, Benjamin 
Franklin, Anna Mary, widow of John W. 
Young, Esq., of the Dauphin county bar, 
and for twenty years member and secretary 
of the Harrisburg School Board ; Thomas 
Sawyer, Charles Hay, and John David, who 
died in his infancy. Mr. Peters' death, 
which occurred November 10, 1876, was 
caused by an accident at the Pennsylvania 
railroad crossing, at Highspire, Pa. Mrs. 
Peters is still living. 

Thomas Sawyer Peters received his educa- 
tion in the public schools of Harrisburg, 
and then engaged on his own account in the 
real estate and insurance business. He is 
connected with the following societies: 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M.; 
State Capital Lodge, No. 70, 1. 0. 0. F. ; Cin- 
cinnati Commandery, No. 96, K. of M. ; 
the Royal Arcanum, and B. P. 0. Elks. He 
is one of the organizers of the Harrisburg 
lodges of Elks and Ancient Order United 
Workmen. He is a Republican, and has 
served as county assessor and in the .com- 
mon council of Harrisburg. On November 
23, 1893, in Zion Lutheran church, Harris- 
burg, Pa., Thomas Sawyer Peters was mar- 
ried to Mary Agnes, daughter of George and 
Katherine (Koenig) Doehne, born May 28, 
1870. Mr. Doehne was born in Germany 
in 1830, and has been in the brewing busi- 
ness in Harrisburg for forty years. Mrs. 
Doehne was born in Harrisburg in 1848. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Peters are: 
George Doehne, born September 12, 1894, 
and Anna Katherine. born May 3, 1896. 
Mr. Peters and wife are members of the Lu- 
theran church. 
33 



Sheafer, Wood K., fire insurance agent, 
was born in Mendota, Minn., November 7, 
1858. He is a son of Maj. H. J. and America 
(Wood) Sheafer, natives of Dauphin county, 
Pa. He removed with his parents to Har- 
risburg when two years of age. He resided 
in this city and received his education in the 
public schools and high school and Seller's 
Academy, of Harrisburg. 

When fifteen years of age he engaged in 
the grocery business for one year. After 
that he was in the State Capital Flouring 
Mill as bookkeeper. He took up the study 
of dentistry with Dr. Westbrook,and attended 
the Pennsylvania Dental College, from which 
he was graduated in 1879-80. He practiced 
his profession for three years in St. Louis, 
Mo., successfully ; but on account of poor 
health was obliged to retire from the profes- 
sion. He returned to Harrisburg in 1883, 
and engaged in the fire insurance business. 

He is a Republican, and active in the work 
of his party. In April, 1890, he was elected 
to the select council for a term of four years; 
was made president in 1892, and has since 
that time held the office. 

He is a member of Perseverance Lodge, 
Chapter and Pilgrim Commandery, Harris- 
burg Consistory, and past master of Blue 
Lodge. He is unmarried. 



Howard, James H. W., real estate agent, 
notary public and secretary of the Inter-State 
Fair, Harrisburg, Pa., is a native of Hamil- 
ton, Canada, and was born March 9, 1859. 
He is a son of Hamilton and Virginia (Mun- 
roe) Howard, the former a native of Virginia, 
now residing in Harrisburg, the latter a 
native of Hamilton. Canada, who died in Buf- 
falo, N. Y., in 1876. 

He received his primary education in the 
public schools of his native city, and when 
fourteen years of age he removed to Buffalo, 
N.Y.,and completed his education in the high 
school. He was employed with Dr. Thomas 
F. Rochester of that city for about five years. 
For the two following years he was engaged 
in the produce business in Chicago, and in 
1878 he removed to Harrisburg. Here he 
also engaged in the produce business until 
1884, when he embarked in the newspaper 
business as publisher of the State Journal. 
In 1886 he published a work entitled "Bond 
and Free," the story being based on an in- 
cident in his father's life. In 1889 he began 
the publication of Hoivard's Negro American 
Monthly. In 1890 he published a book en- 



470 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



titled " Color Struggles." In 1892 he entered 
the State department as messenger for an 
unexpired term, and in 1894 engaged in the 
real estate business. In 1882 he was elected 
a member of the Harrisburg city council, 
representing the Eighth ward, and filled 
this office for three years. He has been sec- 
retary of the Inter-State Fair since its organ- 
ization, in 1892. 

Mr. Howard was married in Washington, 
D.C., March 29, 1883, to Ella Dorem, daugh- 
ter of Philip and Mary Dorem, of Westmin- 
ster, Md. They have one child, Layton Le- 
roy, born January 20, 1886. In political 
views Mr. Howard is a Democrat. He and 
his wife are members of the Capitol Street 
Presbyterian church. 

Mr. Howard is a publisher of some note. 
He contemplates the publication of a bistory 
of colored soldiers during the late Rebellion, 
in the preparation of which he was ably 
assisted by Gen. Simon Cameron during his 
life. Mr. Howard is a director of the only 
colored building and loan association in 
Harrisburg. He is a member of the Chosen 
Friends Lodge, No. 43, A. Y. M., and of 
Susquehanna Lodge, No. 27, G. U. 0. 0. f ., 
both meeting in Harrisburg. 



Rockafellar, Thomas B., real estate and 
collection agent, was born at Harrisburg, 
Pa., October 2, 1862. He is a son of John 
M. and Sarah (Hoffman) Rockafellar. the 
former a native of Cumberland county, 
the latter of Lancaster county, Pa. The 
father settled in Harrisburg about 1860, 
where he had before resided for a time pre- 
vious to his marriage. He had taught school 
for some time in Hummelstown. After 
coming to Harrisburg he worked for a few 
years at his trade of printing, but in his later 
years he was engaged in the real estate busi- 
ness. His wife survives him and resides 
in Harrisburg. They had eleven children, 
five of whom are living : Edward, residing 
in Erie, Pa.; Thomas B.; Nellie, wife of John 
M. Holmes, residing in Philadelphia; Sarah, 
residing in Philadelphia, and Daisy. The 
father was a worthy citizen and an active 
and prominent church member. 

Thomas B. was educated in the public 
schools of Harrisburg. After leaving school 
he entered at once upon the real estate busi- 
ness, and for a period of seventeen years has 
been continuously occupied in this business. 
For two years he was connected in business 
with his father, and for fifteen years has 



conducted the business solely in his own in- 
terest. He was married in Harrisburg to 
Miss Catherine Bowers, daughter of George 
and Mary Bowers, residents of Harrisburg. 
No children have been born to them. In 
political views Mr. Rockafellar is a Republi- 
can. He attends the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Taylor, William H., was born in Shrews- 
bury, York county, Pa., April 25, 1864. He 
is a son of Henry F. and Annie (Keevy) 
Taylor, natives of York county. His father 
was for many years in the United States de- 
tective service. He served as justice of the 
peace in York county for several terms. 

William H. Taylor was educated in York 
county. At fourteen years of age he left 
home and learned the trade of miller, at 
which he worked four years. He afterwards 
worked as a moulder in York, Pa., for three 
years. He then opened a bakery in York, 
and for three years did an extensive busi- 
ness. In 1889 he came to Harrisburg, and 
engaged in the insurance business. In 1894 
he became one of the organizers of the Capi- 
tal City Flint Company. He was elected 
the first secretary, treasurer and general 
manager of the company, and was continued 
in these offices until November 30, 1895, 
since which time he has been secretary of 
the company. He is also district agent for 
"The Manufacturers' Industrial League," of 
Carlisle, Pa. Mr. Taylor is a Republican. 
He is a member of the Junior Order United 
American Mechanics. He was married, in 
1887, to Miss Laura E., daughter of Henry 
Slusser. They have two children : Paul S. 
and Eve Adna. 



Baker, George W., real estate and in- 
surance agent, was born in Washington, 
D. C, September 22, 1868. He is a son of 
the late Frederick and Sarah E. (Goodman) 
Baker. Frederick Baker was born in Dan- 
ville, Pa., in November, 1837. He was a 
carpenter and pursued this calling through- 
out his life. Sarah Goodman was born in 
Williamsport, Pa., in 1845. She was mar- 
ried to Mr. Baker in 1866 ; the}' had five 
children, of whom the only surviving one is 
George W. The father is deceased and the 
mother is still living, aged fifty-one; she re- 
sides in Harrisburg and is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal church. George W. 
Baker came to Harrisburg when a boy. He 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



471 



attended the high school for about four 
years. At twenty years of age he went to 
Chicago, 111., and was for three years a stu- 
dent at the Armour Institute. At the age 
of twenty-three he went to California and 
was employed for one year by Mr. J. C. 
Blout as private messenger. He was next 
engaged for a year in St. Paul, Minn., in 
the collecting, real estate and insurance 
business. He then came to Harrisburg and 
was for six months traveling salesman for 
barber's supplies. In 1895 % he opened' a 
coal, real estate and insurance office at 1742 
North Fourth street. His residence is on 
Cowden street. He was appointed secretary 
of the Quay Union Central Club, which 
office he still holds. Mr. Baker is a Re- 
publican. He is a member of the Presby- 
terian church. 



Davidson, John H, real estate and insur- 
ance agent, Harrisburg, is a native of Dau- 
phin county, Pa. He was born in the city 
of Harrisburg July 5, 1870. He is a son of 
William W. and Susan E. (Zimmerman) 
Davidson, the former a native of Schuylkill 
county, the latter of Halifax township, Dau- 
phin county. His father was a tanner by 
trade, and during his residence in Schuyl- 
kill county followed this occupation, together 
with farming. The parents removed to 
Hai'risburg about 1860. The father was en- 
gaged in various occupations for a few years. 
For the past thirty years he has been in the 
employment of the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company. The parents had born to them 
three children, all of whom are living, 
namely : Frank E., residing at White 
Bear Lake, Minn., Clara May, wife of 
Charles E. Shaffer, residing one mile north- 
east of Dauphin, Dauphin count}', along 
Stony creek, and John H. 

John H. Davidson was educated in the 
public schools of his native city. For a 
period of about seven years after leaving 
school he was employed by the Pennsylva- 
nia Railroad Company as messenger and 
clerk. On April 1, 1895, he engaged in his 
present business, and has met with an en- 
couraging degree of success. He is a mem- 
ber of Cincinnatus Commanderv, No. 96, 
K. of M.; Paxtang Conclave, No. 131, I. 0. 
of H. In political views he is a Republican. 
He is a consistent member of Augsburg Lu- 
theran church. 



Foose, Lemuel Oliver, superintendent 
of city schools, Harrisburg, Pa., was born in 
Juniata county, Pa., January 16, 1838. He 
is a son of James and Catherine (Boyer) 
Foose. His primary education was re* 
ceived in the Markleville Academy, Perry 
county, Pa. He also took the greater part 
of the course at the Pennsylvania College, 
Gettysburg. Pa. He left college at the close 
of the junior year. He was subsequently 
honored by this institution with the degree 
of M. A. While obtaining his education he 
was more or less engaged in teaching school. 

He had charge of the academy at Aarons- 
burg, Centre county, Pa., from 1864 to 1866, 
and in 1866-67 he was superintendent of 
schools at Lima, Ohio ; in 1868-69, superin- 
tendent of schools at Miamisburg, Ohio, 
and from 1869 to 1879, principal of the boys' 
high school, Harrisburg, Pa. In 1879 he 
was elected superintendent of the schools of 
the city of Harrisburg. In this position 
his services have accomplished much for the 
improvement of the schools. The course of 
study has been extended and reconstructed, 
with closely graded scholarships for admis- 
sion to successive grades; changes have been 
made in the method of promotion, so that 
classes complete the year's work earlier than 
before, and new classes take up their work 
at the time of year when there is less dispo- 
sition to drop out. A change has been 
effected by which pupils are promoted with- 
out examination when their work is satis- 
factory to the teachers. Competitive exam- 
inations are now held for the appointment 
of teachers. As applicants come to take the 
examination, the one highest in grade is 
appointed to the first vacancy, and the next 
vacancy is filled by the next highest in 
grade. Tins does away with favoritism or 
influence on the part of the school board in 
appointing teachers. As a result of Professor 
Foose's able administration the standard of 
scholarship and discipline has been raised, 
and the general scope and mission of the 
schools so extended and enlarged that they 
hold a high grade among the schools of the 
State. 

Professor Foose was one of the founders of 
the public library, and has since been secre- 
tary and trustee of the same. He has been 
at the head of the University Extension 
work since its inception. He is chairman of 
the city Bible Society, and is closely identi- 
fied with the Dauphin County Sunday- 



472 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



School Association, being its president and 
secretary. He is a member of the Messiah 
Lutheran church. He has been one of the 
official board and the superintendent of the 
Sunday-school for twenty years. 

Lemuel 0. Foose was married, in 1868, to 
Miss Elizabeth Eleanor Kuhn, daughter of 
Rev. Samuel and Eleanor M. Kuhn. Their 
children are : Albert Elliott, Charles James, 
the architect of the public library building, 
of Harrisburg, Ella Irene, Frank Charles 
and Jessie Florence. 



Garner, John E., principal of the Harris- 
burg Business College, was born in Carroll 
county, Md., May 28, 1846. He is a son of 
Abraham and Mary A. (Appier) Garner. 
His father was a prosperous farmer, and died 
in his native State, August 2, 1879. His 
mother is still living and resides in Mary- 
land. Their family consists of three children, 
namely: Elias Oliver, Rebecca C, wife of 
Samuel Gait, who resides in Carroll county, 
Md., and John E. John E. was reared to 
manhood in his native county, receiving his 
primary education in the public schools. 
Until the fall of 1868 he was engaged in 
teaching school and working on the farm. 
In the fall of 1868 he entered the Normal 
School of Millersville, Pa. Here he spent 
five years and was graduated in 1873. He 
then again engaged in teaching school in 
Lancaster county, Pa., for about three years, 
attending college also during the summer 
for the purpose of perfecting himself in the 
higher branches of education. In 1876 he 
removed to Harrisburg and was engaged in 
the city schools for eight years. In 1885 he 
opened the Business College, now so well 
known to the people of this and adjoining 
counties. He was married in Harrisburg, 
July 5, 1881, to Ettie S. White, daughter of 
Rudolph and Elizabeth A. White. To them 
have been born three children, namely: 
John E., born October 28,1886; Elizabeth 
May, born March 24, 1890; and Gilbert D., 
born June 17, 1893. Mr. Garner is an active 
member of the Order of American Mechanics. 
In political views he is a Republican, and 
he attends the Church of God. Mrs. Garner 
is a member of Pine Street Presbyterian 
church. Mr. Garner has acquired distinction 
in his profession. His college enjoys a large 
and growing popularity, and has sent many 
bright and promising young men to recruit 
the ranks of business men. The institution 
was organized in 1873, by Prof. John N. 



Currey, as a night school and in 1880 day 
sessions were added. In 1885 Prof. Garner, 
then one of the popular teachers of the 
school, assumed entire control. He reorgan- 
ized and systematized the course of instruc- 
tion. This same is eminently practical and 
is under the direct personal charge of the 
principal, who is assisted by a large corps of 
able instructors. The course embraces prac- 
tical arithmetic, bookkeeping, grammar, 
spelling, commercial correspondence, rapid 
calculations, shorthand, typewriting, com- 
mercial law and business ethics. To all per- 
sons who have been denied a thorough course 
of common school education, and to those 
who are deficient in any particular branch, a 
great opportunity is here afforded. Special de- 
partments are open to young men and ladies 
who wish to better fit themselves for a thor- 
ough course of collegiate or commercial 
studies. The college is handsomely ap- 
pointed and is centrally located at No. 330 
Market street. 



Hammelbaugh, D. Daniel, secretary of 
the Harrisburg School District, was born at 
Harrisburg October 18, 1861. He is a son 
of Philip and Elizabeth (Stahler) Hammel- 
baugh, and has been a continuous resident 
of this city since his birth. His father is a 
native of Maryland, and settled in Harris- 
burg about 1844 and since that time has 
been a resident of the city. He is seventy- 
two years of age and is highly esteemed. 
His wife, the mother of the subject of this 
sketch, is a native of Marysville, Pa. She 
died when D. Daniel was in infancy. Both 
she and her husband are of German ances- 
try. They had sis children, five of whom 
are living: Elizabeth, widow of the late 
William Miller; Julia, wife of George E. 
Arnold; Margaret, wife of John W. White; 
Josephine, wife of William B. Grissinger, 
and D. Daniel. By a second union Philip 
had a family of five children, four of whom 
are living and are as follows : George B., 
Mary F., wife of James H. Collins, Cath- 
erine G. and Charles F. All members of 
both families reside in Harrisburg. 

D. Daniel received his education in the 
public and high schools of this city, having 
been graduated from the high school in 
1882. For a short time he was assistant 
ticket agent in the office of the Northern 
Central railroad. In September, 1883, he 
engaged as messenger to the Board of Edu- 
cation, and in June, 1895, after the death of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



473 



the late John W. Young, was appointed to 
the office he now so acceptably fills. He is 
a member of Council No. 3, Order United 
American Mechanics, and of Gen. John F. 
Hartranft Camp, No. 15, Sons of Veterans. 
In political views he is liberal. He attends 
the Westminster Presbyterian church. He 
is widely known and highly esteemed. 

Shumberger, J. C. — A community gains 
character and distinction from the leaders in 
various branches of business who make it 
the seat of their labors. Every original and 
successful business venture is an advertise- 
ment and an additional attraction to the 
place. Certainly to Mr. Shumberger must 
be accorded the praise of success in the 
founding and conduct of his School of Com- 
merce. 

Mr. Shumberger was born in Good Hope, 
Cumberland county, Pa. His father, Simon 
Shumberger, was a native of the same 
county, and was a prominent man there. 
He was a contractor and builder, and also 
conducted an undertaking establishment. 
He served for nine months during the late 
Rebellion in company F, One Hundred and 
Thirtieth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. 
He resided in Cumberland county until 
1890, when he came to Harrisburg. Since 
that time he has been engaged in contract- 
ing. He married Sarah Eckert, and they 
have two children : M. Ella, wife of Jacob 
Souder, residing in Harrisburg, and J. C. 
Mr. and Mrs. Simon Shumberger are worthy 
peeple, modest and unassuming, and quietly 
taking part in all movements promising 
social good. Mr. Shumberger is one of the 
incorporators of the Messiah Rescue and Be- 
nevolent Home of Harrisburg, which was 
chartered April 15, 1896. 

J. C. Shumberger received his primary 
education in the public schools of his native 
county and of Harrisburg. This course was 
supplemented by subsequent attendance at 
the Keystone Business College of Harrisburg 
and the head school of Acme Phonography 
at Washington, D. C. 

In the organization of the Lebanon Busi- 
ness College in 1890 Mr. Shumberger dis- 
played marked ability. When the failure of 
others had left the ground cumbered with 
difficulties he achieved success, placed the 
institution on a good foundation and started 
it upon a career of prosperity. He after- 
wards disposed of the Lebanon Business 
College to a company composed of the prin- 



cipals of the different departments of the 
school, and the institution is still success- 
fully conducted by them. A remarkable 
record of usefulness and success is that 
which has been made by the institution 
known as the School of Commerce, which is 
located at 16 North Market Square. 

Mr. J. C. Shumberger, who founded the 
school in Harrisburg in April, 1894, is one 
of the ablest, most courteous and most dis- 
tinguished representatives of the scholastic 
profession, and by his indefatigable efforts, 
seconded by a staff of competent assistants, 
he has made it one of the most prosperous 
schools of the kind in the State. 

The following is a list of studies pursued 
at this school : Double entry bookkeeping, 
single entry bookkeeping, commercial law, 
commercial arithmetic, rapid calculations, 
civil government, correspondence, grammar 
(Maxwell's Intro, and Swinton's advanced), 
negotiable papers, penmanship, office prac- 
tice, spelling, banking, practice of keeping 
books for the different trades, shorthand, 
letter copying, manifolding and typewriting. 
In no school in the United States is better 
work done than in this one. The proof is 
found in the ease with which pupils secure 
good paying positions in great business 
houses. 

There ai'e accommodations for about 150 
scholars at this school, and about 146 are at 
present enrolled. 

Mr. Shumberger gives to every depart- 
ment his close personal supervision — and we 
all know what a powerful thing the eye of 
the master is. The school has the finest 
business college rooms in the State, fitted 
with all the modern conveniences. The 
rooms are elegantly lighted with nat- 
ural and electric light and heated with 
steam. The latest improved typewriters are 
in use. Those desiring to prepare them- 
selves for teaching penmanship in any or 
all of the departments of the beautiful art 
find superior facilities in this institution. 
Students holding scholarships have the 
privilege of attending both day and even- 
ing sessions until they have the course com- 
pleted, regardless of time. They also have 
the privilege of reviewing their course in 
the college years after, if they wish, without 
extra charge. 

In short, this is a thoroughly up-to-date 
institution, having at its head one of the ac- 
knowledged master minds of the profession. 

On May 1,1S96, Mr. Shumberger organized 



474 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



a Commercial College at Carlisle, Cumber- 
land county, Pa., which he is conducting 
successfully at this date. In connection 
with the School of Commerce Mr. Shum- 
berger edits and publishes a newspaper 
called the School of Commerce News, which is 
issued monthly. 

. During the years 1892, '93 and '94 Prof. 
Shumberger was principal of the commer- 
cial department of the Pennsylvania Chau- 
tauqua, and performed the duties incum- 
bent upon him with zeal and efficiency. In 
1S93 he was elected a director of the Phila- 
delphia Mutual Loan Association. In his 
earlier life Mr. Shumberger was engaged in 
mechanical pursuits. He learned both car- 
pentry and undertaking, and when only 
sixteen years of age was the overseer of 
twelve men engaged in erecting important 
structures, such as barns, dwelling houses 
and churches. 

Mr. Shumberger was married in Lebanon, 
Pa., June 1, 1893, to Alberta K., daughter of 
Jacob and Elizabeth (Borden) Hepkins. 
They have one child, named Sarah Eliza- 
beth. Mr. and Mrs. Shumberger are con- 
sistent and active members of Messiah Lu- 
theran church, and are teachers in the Sun- 
day-school connected with that church. 
During the last eight months of Mr. Shum- 
berger's residence in Lebanon he was the 
faithful superintendent of the Sunday- 
school of the Seventh Street Lutheran 
church. He is a member of the Young 
Men's Christian Association and takes a 
lively interest in all activities tending to 
benefit and improve his fellow-men. Mr. 
Shumberger is an active member of the Pa- 
triotic Order Sons of America, also of the 
commandeiy of the same organization, and 
a member and trustee of Dauphin Conclave, 
No. 96, I. 0. of H. 



Landon, Samuel G., principal of the Har- 
risburg high school, was born in Herrick, 
Bradford county, Pa., February 12, 1865, 
son of George and Catherine (Smith) Lan- 
don, both natives of Wyoming county, where 
they now have their residence. The father, 
a prominent and well-known citizen of Brad- 
ford county, was a college graduate and in 
earlier life was active in the ministry, which 
he was compelled by failing health to relin- 
quish ; subsequently he engaged in farming 
and later became prominent in politics, serv- 
ing two terms as the representative of his 
district in the United States Congress. He 



is now living retired from business in his 
native town, at the advanced age of seventy- 
nine years. He has been twice married, 
having six children by his first marriage, 
three of whom are living: Elizabeth, wife of 
E. Fuller, residing at Camptown, Pa.; George 
K., residing at Avoca, N. Y.; and Annie, 
wife of R. J. Fuller, residing at Camptown, 
Pa.; and by his second marriage, eight chil- 
dren, seven living: Benson, at Chicago; Mrs. 
Rev. W. P. Buck, Provincetown, Mass.; Sam- 
uel G. ; Herbert, residing on the homestead ; 
Carrie, wife of T. J. Reinhart, residing at 
Black Walnut, Wj'oming county, Pa. ; Jen- 
nie, at home; and Robert, Avoca, Pa. Sam- 
uel G. attended the public schools of his 
native township, and was graduated from 
Wyoming Seminary, at Kingston, Pa., in 
June, 1885. He completed his college course 
at Wesle} r an University, Middletown, Conn., 
in the class of 1889. For two years he was 
superintendent of schools at California, Mo., 
and for one year professor of Latin and 
Greek in Puget Sound University, Tacoma, 
Wash., after which he was for two years sup- 
erintendent of schools at Puyallup, Wash., 
and then came East to accept the position of 
principal of the Harrisburg high school, 
taking charge of the work in September, 
1894. Professor Landon was married in 
California, Mo., June 3, 1891, to Miss Minnie 
E. Biggs, daughter of Thomas M. and Jose- 
phine Y. (McGowan) Biggs, and to their 
marriage there is no issue. Professor and 
Mrs. Landon attend the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Gregory, Frank H., general secretar}' 
Y. M. C. A., Pennsylvania Railroad Branch, 
was born in Philadelphia October 9, 1861. 
His grandfather, Gen. Edgar M. Gregory, 
served with distinction during the war of 
the Rebellion. He was wounded at the 
battle of Chancellorsville May 3, 1863. He 
was promoted to brevet brigadier general 
September 1, 1864, and to brevet major 
general August 9, 1865. He was honorably 
discharged by general orders November 3, 
1867. He served as United States marshal 
at Philadelphia from the date of his dis- 
charge from the army until his death. Capt. 
Frank H. Gregory, son of the above-men- 
tioned General Gregory and father of the 
subject of this sketch, was a prominent con- 
tractor and bridge builder in Philadelphia, 
but during the latter years of his life he 
was with the Globe Gas Light Company, of 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



475 



Philadelphia. In the late war between the 
States he commanded company A, Ninety- 
first regiment, Pennsylvania volunteer 
infantry, and with his company took part 
in many prominent engagements. He died 
at Philadelphia March, 1877, after an active 
and successful career, leaving a good name 
as an inheritance to his descendants. His 
faithful and devoted wife, Mary A. (Fletcher) 
Gregory, still survives and resides at Derry, 
Pa. They had four children, three of whom 
are living: C. Augusta, Frank H. and W. 
Elbert, the eldest and youngest both resid- 
ing at Derry, Pa. 

Frank H. was educated in the public 
schools of Philadelphia and of Danville, Pa. 
For a short time he was salesman in a gen- 
eral store in Philadelphia. Afterwards he 
learned the wire-manufacturing business 
and for about four months he was engaged 
in this business in his own interest in Phila- 
delphia. In 1886 he was appointed assist- 
ant secretary of the P. R. R. department of 
the Y. M. C. A. at Philadelphia, He effi- 
ciently filled this position for nine months, 
when he was appointed secretary of the 
same institution at Derry, Pa.; there he re- 
mained until 1893, when he was transferred 
to his present position at Harrisburg. His 
judicious, faithful and courteous manage- 
ment of the affairs of the society have given 
him a large place in the esteem and affec- 
tion of the members. 

Mr. Gregory was married at West Chester 
September 17", 1895, to Miss Lula May Free- 
man, daughter of W. H. M. and Mary Free- 
man, of that city. Mr. Gregory is an active 
member of Derry Lodge, No. 942, I. 0. 0. F., 
of Derry, Pa.; also of Nazareth Commandery, 
No. 125, K. of M., of Harrisburg. In po- 
litical views he is a Prohibitionist. He and 
his wife attend the Presbyterian church. 



Black, Homer, general secretary Y. M. 
C. A., Harrisburg, Pa., was born at Ports- 
mouth, N. H., September 22, 1866. He is a 
son of William and Mary E. (Shepard) 
Black, natives of Portsmouth, who both 
died at Boston, Mass., the former June 8, 
1879, the latter July 25, 1891. These 
parents had born to them three sons, namely: 
William, born August 10, 1850, and died 
June 10, 1894 ; James A., at present resid- 
ing in New York City, and Homer. 

When one year old, Homer Black was 
taken by his parents to Boston, Mass., where 
they made their home. He received his 



education in the public schools of that city. 
He became accountant in a large furniture 
store, which position he occupied for a long 
period. During the years 1888-89, and part 
of 1890, he was engaged as associate secre- 
tary of the Y. M. C. A., at Rochester, N. Y. 
In April, 1890, he removed to Bay City, 
Mich., where he filled the position of general 
secretary of the Y. M. C. A., until 1891, when 
he removed to Harrisburg. Since that date, 
he has, with ability and acceptance, dis- 
charged the duties of his present engage- 
ment. 

He was married in Boston, Mass., Decem- 
ber 25, 1889, to Eugenie Dagmar Peterson, 
daughter of Theodore and Anne Peterson, 
of Boston, Mass., but at present residing at 
Akron, Ohio. They have two children, 
namely : Theodore Wesley, born June 7, 
1891, and Dorothy Stearns, born April 19, 
1894. Mr. Black is a member of the Royal 
Arcanum, No. 499, of Harrisburg. In po- 
litical views he is liberal. Both Mr. and 
Mrs. Black are members of Grace Methodist 
Episcopal church. Mr. Black has spent 
most of his life in active and practical evan- 
gelistic work ; a wise head, warm heart and 
genial manner are an attractive and force- 
ful commendation of his religion. 



Kurzenknabe, J. H., music teacher and 
author, was born in Moenchehof, near Cassel, 
Kurhessen, Germany, June 18, 1840. He is 
a son of John George and Anna Kurzen- 
knabe. He was left an orphan in childhood. 
He attended the Industrial School at Cassel. 
When he was fourteen years old he bade 
farewell to friends and home, September 15, 
1854, and set out to seek his fortune in the 
New World, sailing from Bremerhaven for 
America on the following day. By mistake 
he was transferred to a ship on which all 
were strangers to him, but he was buoyant 
with hope and free as a bird. During the 
voyage of forty-nine days, being a very clever 
violinist, he made friends among the officers 
and crew and became also a general favorite 
with the passengers, so that he was the pet 
of the ship. His especial attention was at- 
tracted to an old lady who was sick during 
the whole voyage. Her children in America 
had sent money to bring over their old 
mother. To this helpless woman he minis- 
tered in his boyish way as best he could. 
The forty-nine days' voyage was tempestu- 
ous, and minus mast, and storm-beaten, the 
ship hove in sight of the eagerly looked-for 



476 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



land. On her arrival at New York, the 
children of the old lady were there to meet 
her, to whom she told the story of the boy's 
kindness. In this family he found a tem- 
porary home, and in years to come he was 
not forgotten by them. Arrangements were 
made for him to go to a seminary in Penn- 
sylvania, where under Christian training he 
found a safe shelter and valuable instruction. 
Having a talent for music he followed this 
bent, and in that institution of learning he 
prosecuted his musical studies and made for 
himself a name as a teacher of the violin 
and vocal music. He was afterwards placed 
under the care and instruction of William 
B. Bradbury, then the most prominent 
teacher of music in the country. After a 
thorough course under this master, Mr. Kur- 
zenknabe started on his own responsibility. 
His first and only attempt to teach singing 
and a day-school together in a Maryland 
town was a total failure, but the very next 
engagement, which was at Sag Harbor, L.I., 
proved a complete success. After teaching 
successfully in Baltimore and other Mary- 
land towns, he visited the New England 
States and taught conventions in a number 
of important cities. He then returned to 
Hagerstown, Md., where his lot fell in pleas- 
ant places, and here, too, he found the wife 
to cheer him through his busy life. He 
taught successfully in Baltimore, York, Pa., 
Harrisburg, Philadelphia and New York, 
and last in Camden, N. J., where the first 
child, a boy, greeted the parents and cheered 
their hearts. His next place of residence 
and teaching was Moorestown, N. J., and the 
next Philadelphia, where a daughter was 
born. The war coming on, the New Eng- 
land States seemed safer than Pennsylvania, 
hence Dedham, Mass., became the next home. 
Fine classes in Yankee land, war songs and 
teaching in most of the prominent towns 
brought money to the purse, but sickness 
claimed the boy for a victim. Repeated and 
urgent invitations from Maryland friends to 
make a change, for the boy's sake, induced 
the Kurzenknabes to disregard the threaten- 
ing perils of war and journeysouthward. An- 
tietam and Gettysburg brought the armies of 
both sides, and the great invasion left the 
family destitute and helpless, with but five 
dollars in money and a railroad ticket toSun- 
bury, Pa., whence the floods drove them back. 
Mercersburg and study for the ministry were 
quickly- decided upon. But exciting debates 
of the church involved theological gladia- 



tors and their followers, and too free a tongue 
was not the wisest thing to have in those 
days of trial. Fairy visions vanished. The 
advent of twin boys made an increase of in- 
come imperative and teaching was the only 
resource. A house was purchased at Mc- 
Connellsburg, but sold after an occupancy of 
two years. Mechanicsburg was home for a 
short time,and finally Harrisburg became the 
permanent residence, and a house was pur- 
chased which is still home. Teaching for 
twenty -seven years in many different States, 
sometimes hundreds of miles from home, 
always joyous, looking at the bright side of 
life, active, with plenty of grit, yet with his 
heart centered where the loved ones stay, 
earnest, enthusiastic, this is J. H. Ivurzen- 
knabe as his friends and scholars know him. 
Professor Kurzenknabe is the author and 
compiler of the following books: "Sweet 
Silver Echoes," "Music at Sight," "Gospel 
Trio," " Songs and Glees," " Wreath of Gems," 
"Song Treasury," "Peerless Praise," " Gates 
Ajar," "Sowing and Reaping," " Theory of 
Music," " Fair as the Morning," and "Kindly 
Light." The sale of " Sowing and Reaping " 
has reached over 280,000 copies, and over 
190,000 copies of "Fair as the Morning" 
have been sold. " Kindly Light " starts in 
with 20,000 copies engaged in advance of 
publication. All of these books are pub- 
lished by his well-known house of J. H. 
Kurzenknabe & Sons, Harrisburg, Pa. Mr. 
Kurzenknabe was married in Greencastle, 
Pa., November 13, 1859, to Susan Shafer, 
daughter of George and Frederica Shafer, 
residents of Hagerstown, Md. Their chil- 
dren are : Harry J., born in Camden, N. J., 
printer and stationer of Harrisburg; Anna 
Rosina.born in Philadelphia and died June 
24, 1877, in Harrisburg; Flora Fernandina, 
born in Hagerstown, Md., a student at Mc- 
Dowell's school, New York; John Erasmus 
and George Jacob, twins, born in Mercers- 
burg, Pa.; John E., manager of his father's 
music house ; George J., in the music busi- 
ness in Chicago; James William, born in 
McConnellsburg, Pa., died October 29, 1869, 
in Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Richard Louis, born 
in Harrisburg, and connected with his 
father's business ; Gertrude Viola, born in 
Harrisburg, wife of George Elias Shaffer, re- 
siding in Harrisburg; Lily Esther, born in 
Harrisburg, bookkeeper in her father's music 
store; Norman Bruce, born in Harrisburg, 
now in the music business in New York; 
Ellen Miriam, a student of elocution at Em- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



477 



erson's College, Boston, Mass. ; Susan May, 
born in Harrisburg; Paul Edgar, born in 
Harrisburg; Francis Earl Harter, born in 
Harrisburg ; Myra Simmons, born in Har- 
risburg, died in Harrisburg, August 17, 1886. 
Professor Kurzenknabe is at present a mem- 
ber of Salem Reformed church of Harrisburg. 
He was formerly a member of the Second 
church, which, as elder, he represented for 
manj' years at Classis and in the Synod. 
He belongs to Peace and Plenty Lodge, No. 
69, 1. 0. 0. F., Harrisburg Encampment, No. 
301, the I. 0. of H., and several other or- 
ganizations. He is often for weeks from 
home, attending conventions, gospel services 
and children's gatherings. He eats and 
sleeps well, is in perfect health, is five feet 
nine inches in height, turning the scale at 
two hundred pounds, and knowing nothing 
by experience of sickness. You will find 
him a hale-fellow-well-met. May his days of 
usefulness be many and his talent ever be 
active in the Master's cause, till the welcome 
summons, "Well done, thou good and faith- 
ful servant," calls him to the rest that 
awaits the people of God. This sketch is 
prepared by one of his loyal friends and 
ardent admirers. 



Orth, Henry C, music dealer and insur- 
ance agent, was born in Harrisburg, April 
8, 1843. 

On the right bank of the river Danube, 
about fifteen miles east of Vienna, is the 
village of Orth. In the year 1170, Hartneid 
Von Orth purchased the village and estate 
surrounding it, founded a church and 
erected a castle. The estate remained in 
the family until the close of the seventeenth 
century, when the proprietor sold the estate 
and moved to Moravia, one of the northern 
provinces of Austria. A portion of the Orth 
family removed to the Palatinate, along the 
river Phine. In 1709 Karl Orth was born 
in the town of Ramholtz, in the Palatinate, 
died in 1789, was married, and had issue. 
Karl Orth, 2d, was born in 1770, in Ram- 
holtz, married in 1795, to Margaret Roth, 
and died in Ramholtz in 1854. He held 
the position of superintendent of forestry. 
George Orth, second son of Karl Orth and 
Margaret (Roth) Orth, was born December 
5, 1808, in Ramholtz, Germany. He was a 
shoemaker by trade, and a musician of no 
mean ability. He is living a retired life in 
Harrisburg, where he settled on coming to 
America in 1842. His wife, Elizabeth M. 



(Rufer) Orth, was born near Frankfort, 
Germany, and is still living, at the age of 
seventy-five years. They have had three 
children, of whom Henry C. and Louisa, 
wife of Charles A. Aughinbaugh, still sur- 
vive. Henry C. has spent his life in Har- 
risburg. He passed through the public 
schools, and subsequently obtained a 
thorough musical education and became a 
teacher of the pianoforte. He embarked in 
his present business in 1865, and has con- 
ducted it with great success. He was mar- 
ried at Grantville, Dauphin county, in April, 
1875, to Miss Katherine G. Sherk, daughter 
of Michael and Elizabeth Sherk, who were 
among the early settlers of Lebanon count}'. 
One child was born to them, namely, 
Florence. Mr. Orth is a school director, 
and chairman of the board of teachers. He 
is an active member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M., and has been treasurer 
of the lodge for the past fourteen years. In 
his political affiliation he is a staunch Repub- 
lican. He attends the Market Square Pres- 
byterian church. 



Boas, Daniel D., deceased, was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., February 19, 1819, a few 
weeks after the death of his father, Jacob Boas, 
who had four sons older than Daniel D.: John 
P., William D., Jacob B. and Augustus F. 
Jacob Boas, the father of Daniel D., was the 
son of Rev. William Boas and was born at 
Reading, Pa., in 1786. He was brought up 
to mercantile pursuits and came to Harris- 
burg in 1805, where he established him- 
self in business. He was a member of the 
borough council and was commissioned by 
Governor Sn}'der February 6, 1809, pro- 
thonotary and clerk of the Court of Quarter 
Sessions and died while in office, October 
8, 1815. He married Sarah, daughter of 
Jacob Dick, of Reading, Pa. The widowed 
mother of Daniel D. removed with her sons 
to Reading, Pa., the residence of her rela- 
tives and friends, where the sons were all 
put to trades, it being the custom of that 
day to teach every boy a trade whether his 
family was wealthy or poor. Daniel D. 
patiently passed his apprenticeship but was 
ver}' anxious to begin business for himself. 
He accepted a position for a short time in 
the Harrisburg postoffice, but soon relin- 
quished it to accept an interest offered him 
by O. P. Bellman in his extensive shoe trade. 
Finding the shoe business too slow for him 
he persuaded Mr. Bellman to abandon it and 



478 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



they formed a partnership in the lumber 
business. Mr. Boas found in this business 
ample scope for his ability and congenial 
occupation for life. He was a man of 
marked characteristics and would have been 
prominent in any branch of business. His 
career was successful and carried him from 
insignificant beginnings to the plane of 
prosperity and competency. His business 
methods were comprehensive and complete, 
beginning with a carefully laid plan and 
progressing by the most studious attention 
to all details in operation and conducting 
with the utmost attainment of the end 
sought. He was a popular man in his busi- 
ness associations because of his considera- 
tion of the rights and comfort and conveni- 
ence of others. So well was he versed in 
human nature that he was able to transact 
business without friction and seldom had 
to resort to legal process to get his due. His 
sympathy with all classes was genuine and 
broad, while his aid to the needy was un- 
stinted. 

Mr. Boas was prominent in the Demo- 
cratic, party and was sometimes honored 
with office, but his strong and universal 
preference was to be a worker in the ranks 
of his party, and never lead. He served in 
the school board of Harrisburg for many 
years and was the president of that body. 
He was much interested in the organization 
and adoption of the free school system and 
was very active in securing that end. He 
counseled a liberal policy in providing 
school accommodations and many of the 
best improvements are due to his wisdom 
and sagacity. Mr. Boas was the candidate 
of his party in 1865 for senator from his 
district and polled many votes above the 
strength of the party. In 1876 he was the 
Democratic presidential elector. He made 
no enemies either in politics or religion, but 
was broad and charitable, and honored the 
motives of all who differed from him in 
views. He died May 9, 1878, his life being 
suddenly terminated by an accident by 
which he was thrown from his carriage. 
The announcement of his death was mourn- 
ful news in the city, where all recognized 
the value of his public service and the 
worthiness of his character. Few men were 
so prominent in promoting the welfare of 
the community and few events have sad- 
dened the hearts as his untimely taking off. 
Mr. Boas left a wife, two sons and three 



daughters, the eldest daughter being Mrs. 
John Wister, of Duncannon. 

His son, Henry D. Boas, was born in Har- 
risburg October 11, 1857. He received his 
primary education in the public schools and 
the Harrisburg Academy and subsequently 
attended St. Paul's School at Concord, N. H. 
In 1871 he entered the office of his father 
and remained there until the death of the 
latter in 1878, when in connection with his 
brother, William S., they took charge of the 
business of which, since the death of his 
brother, he has had entire control. Mr. 
Boas was married October 26, 1876, to Miss 
Susan Espey, daughter of Joseph and Mary 
Espey. Two children have been born to 
them : Mary Espey and Sarah Wister. Mr. 
Boas is a worthy successor of his distin- 
guished father. The immense business in- 
terests which came early into his hands 
have been ably managed and the son has 
displayed much of the business ability 
shown in the successful career of his hon- 
ored parent. In social life also Mr. Boas is 
an important factor. He is a member of 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., 
and is a member of the Harrisburg Club. 
He and his family attend St. Stephen's 
Episcopal church. 

Sheesley, William, was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., October 25, 1838. His father, 
the late Daniel Sheesley, was born in Dau- 
phin county, in the Lykens Valley ; he died 
in 1869. His mother, Sarah (Ressinger) 
Sheesley, was born in Harrisburg, and is 
still living at the advanced age of eighty 
years. They had eleven children, eight of 
whom survive : William, Mar)', wife of Peter 
Reel, Sarah, Daniel, Louisa, wife of Joseph 
E. Rhodes, Elizabeth, wife of George Zat- 
nall, Samuel and George. 

William Sheesley received only a limited 
education ; he may with truth be called a 
self-made man. With industry, energy and 
perseverance, he made up for his lack of 
early advantages, and won deserved pros- 
perity and success. His youth and earl}' 
manhood were spent in agricultural pur- 
suits. When twenty-seven years of age he 
went to work upon the river, and continued 
at this occupation two years. In 1866, after 
the destruction of the bridge by fire, he 
operated a ferry between Harrisburg and 
Bridge Island. When the new bridge was 
completed, he returned to his former occupa- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



479 



tion on the river. From 1869 to 1875 he 
was engaged in the milling business, and in 
1876 he erected the premises he now occu- 
pies, and engaged in the flour and feed busi- 
ness; later he added the coal business, in 
which he has since continued. 

In 1874 Mr. Sheesley was elected a mem- 
ber of the select council of Harrisburg, and 
served in that body two years. In 1876 he 
was elected city treasurer, and so well did he 
execute this important trust that he was re- 
elected for a second term. In 1881 he was 
elected sheriff of Dauphin county, and was 
also awarded a second term, for which he 
was elected in 1887, in recognition of his 
capacity and fidelity. 

William Sheesley was married at Harris- 
burg, January 21, 1861, to Miss Anna E. 
Young, daughter of John and Elizabeth 
Young. They had eight children, six of 
whom are living: Catherine, wife of James 
Lehr; Mary, wife of Edwin Miller; Mar- 
garet, wife of Thomas Carpenter; Amelia, 
John H. and Lillie. Mr. Sheesley is an ac- 
tive member of Lamberton Lodge, No. 708, 
I. 0. 0. F., and of the Ancient Order of 
United Workmen. In his political views he 
is a staunch Republican. 



Sheesley, John H., son of William, was 
born at Harrisburg, December 8, 1869. He 
was educated in the public schools, and 
learned the trade of machinist. He followed 
this trade until 1894, working two years of 
the time in the United States navy yard at 
Washington, D. C. In February, 1895, he 
purchased the flour and feed branch of his 
father's business. 

He was married in Harrisburg, February 
28, 1893, to Miss Mary Peebles, daughter of 
William F.and Retta Peebles, of Harrisburg. 
They have had one son, William LeRoy, 
who died November 30, 1895. Mr. Sheesley 
is on the threshold of his business career, 
which promises the largest success. He is 
universally esteemed in all the walks of life. 



Bell, John, lumber merchant, was born 
on the shore of the Susquehanna river about 
two miles from Harrisburg, December 8, 
1838. He is a son of John and Margaret 
(Fullerton) Bell, the former a native of Stony 
Creek Valley, Pa., the latter born at Colum- 
bia, Lancaster county, Pa. He received his 
education in the public schools. He learned 
the trade of carpenter and builder, and fol- 
lowed this occupation in Harrisburg for 



twenty-three years. In 1879 he engaged in 
the lumber business, and has continued in 
it to the present time. 

John Bell has been twice married. He 
was married in Baltimore, Md., December 
22, 1864, to Jennie Albert. Of five children 
born to this marriage only one is living, 
Lilly M., wife of Frederic Smith, of Harris- 
burg. Mrs. Bell died in Harrisburg May 
26, 1874. Mr. Bell was married the second 
time at Harrisburg, December 14, 1879, to 
Mary A. Riegle, daughter of Simon and Bar- 
bara (Stoner) Riegle. To them have been 
born a family of five boys : Warren R., 
Wayne S., Roger F., Arthur and John E. 

In 1861 Mr. Bell enlisted in company G, 
Twentieth Pennsylvania infantry, and served 
three months. In 1862 he re-enlisted in 
company A, One Hundred and Twenty-sev- 
enth Pennsylvania volunteers, and served 
nine mouths. He also served six months in 
company I, Twentieth Pennsylvania cav- 
alry, one hundred da}'S in company G, One 
Hundred and Ninety-fourth Pennsylvania 
volunteers, and ten months in company I, 
Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania volunteers. 
He was finally mustered out of service at 
Victoria, Tex., and returned to Harrisburg. 
He is a member of Post No. 58, G. A. R. 
Mr. Bell acts with the Republican party. 
The family attend Grace Methodist Epis- 
copal church. Mr. Bell is a thorough busi- 
ness man, and gives hearty support to all 
measures calculated to build up the city and 
to better society. 



Kelley, Henry M., wholesale coal dealer, 
and manager of the Bay Shoe Manufactur- 
ing Company, Harrisburg, Pa., was born in 
Philadelphia, June 22, 1840. He is the 
youngest son and only survivor of three 
children of Andrew and Ruth (Grayson) 
Kelley, both natives of England, but resi- 
dents of the United States from their in- 
fancy. He received the advantages of the 
public schools in his native city, and after 
leaving school learned the trade of ma- 
chinist, which vocation he pursued till 1876. 
His last work in this line of business was 
the setting up of the engines in the pump- 
ing station of the city water works, at the 
foot of North street, which he afterwards 
operated for two years. In 1876 Mr. Kelley 
engaged in the wholesale and 'retail coal 
trade. On his premises, situated near the 
canal, on State street, he operates the largest 
business of this kind in the city. Mr. Kelley 



480 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPED1A 



has been a continuous resident of Harris- 
burg for thirty years, and besides his con- 
nection with the branches of business al- 
ready named, he is a director in the boards 
of the Brelsford Packing Company, the 
Pennsylvania Ammonia and Fertilizing 
Company and the Harrisburg Traction Com- 
pany. Mr. Kelley has shown himself to be 
thoroughly alive to the business activities of 
the times, is universally respected for his 
honorable business methods and intelligent 
enterprise, and highly esteemed in financial 
"circles for his integrity. He has won suc- 
cess by honorably deserving it. He is a 
member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. 
& A. M.; Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, 
P. A. M.; Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11, and 
Lulu Temple of the Mystic Shrine. In 
politics he is a staunch Republican. 

Mr. Kelley was married in Philadelphia, 
October 31, 1870, to Miss Caroline Elder. 
They have had but one child and it died in 
infancy. 



wife of James McCann, and William S. 
Mr. Hautzman is a member of Cincinnatus 
Commandery, No. 96, K. of M., and also an 
active member of Millersburg Conclave, No. 
208, I. 0. H. He is a Republican. He and 
his family are members of the Reformed 
church. 



Hautzman, Frederick H., dealer in lum- 
ber and mill work, Harrisburg, was born in 
Germany. He is a son of Henry and Kath- 
erine (Flager) Hautzman, both native Ger- 
mans. The family came to America when 
Frederick was six years old, and located in 
Harrisburg. Here he received his educa- 
tion in the public schools. He learned the 
trade 'of car-building, and followed this 
occupation until 1866, when he began the 
operation of a planing mill. In 1870 he 
removed to Millersburg, Pa., and operated a 
planing mill there for seventeen years. In 
1887 he removed to Harrisburg and became 
foreman of the John Langletz Co., and 
held this position until 1893, when he be- 
came connected with the Millersburg Plan- 
ing Mill Company, and opened up the 
present branch of that business in this city. 

He has been twice married. His first wife 
was Adeline B. Wietzel, to whom he was 
married in Harrisburg in 1865. To this 
marriage there were born eleven children, 
six of whom are living, namely : Sarah 
Alice, Ella May, Charles F., Arthur S., 
Grace C. and Maud R. Mrs. Hautzman died 
in Harrisburg. Mr. Hautzman was united 
in matrimony the second time, December 
31, 1890, to Mary Alice Siebert, widow of 
the late Aram flammaker. There are no 
children born to this marriage. By her 
union with her first husband, Mrs. Hautz- 
man has two living children : Nellie May, 



Cox, D. W., wholesale coal dealer, was born 
in Baltimore county, Md., March 22, 1841. 
He is a son of the late Selmon and Mary 
(Cooper) Cox, the former of whom died in 
1860, and the latter in 1849. When about 
eleven years of age he removed to York 
county, Pa., and received his education in 
the public schools of Baltimore county, Md., 
and of York county, Pa., up to the age of fif- 
teen. He began business for himself as a 
boy of sixteen in a general country store, and 
after being occupied with this vocation for 
about two years he became a track laborer 
on the Northern Central railroad, after which 
he studied telegraphy and was later given a 
place as operator on this road. In 1862 he 
came to Harrisburg as secretary to Gen. A. 
B. Warford, at that date president of the 
Northern Central railroad. Upon the retire- 
ment of General Warford, Mr. Cox was given 
a position as clerk in the general superin- 
tendent's office. In February, 1865, he en- 
listed in company I, Seventy-seventh Penn- 
sylvania volunteers as a private. Within 
a short time he was appointed regimental 
clerk, and a little later on clerk in the in- 
spector general's department at General 
Thomas' headquarters, Nashville, Teun. He 
was mustered out of the service on special 
orders in October, 1865, returned to Harris- 
burg and again entered the service of the 
Northern Central railroad, this time as pay- 
master. In 1871 he resigned his position 
with the Northern Central railroad and was 
employed by the Harrisburg Furnace Com- 
pany. In 1872 he embarked in the retail 
coal business, in which he continued for 
about ten years, after which he engaged in 
iron ore mining, and in 1887 in his present 
business of wholesale coal dealer. 

Mr. Cox served as a comptroller of the city 
of Harrisburg from 1876 to 1880. He is a 
charter member and past master of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A M.; a member 
of Perseverance Chapter, No. 21; past com- 
mander of Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11 ; 
and past commander of Post No. 58, G. A. 
R. In politics Mr. Cox is active in the ranks 
of the Republican party. Mr. Cox and his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



481 



estimable wife are members of the Pine Street 
Presbyterian church, Mr. Cox being a mem- 
ber of the session of this church. 

He was married in Saltsburg, Pa., June 
20, 1871, to M. Eleanor Galbraith, who was 
born at Saltsburg, Pa. They have three chil- 
dren: Earl W.. born July 4, 1872; Roy Gal- 
braith, born June 5, 1875, and Martha Sterl- 
ing, born September 25, 1877. 

Mr. Cox is the author and publisher of 
Cox's Calculated Tonnage Rate Book, a work 
of the greatest practical value in the count- 
ing house and in railroad and mining of- 
fices. It exhibits computations by hundred 
weights from one hundred-weight to one hun- 
dred tons, and by hundred tons to one thou- 
sand tons at from one cent to six dollars per 
ton. Mr. Cox is a thorough practical busi- 
ness man of broad views and genial tem- 
perament. 



Sible, John S., coal, wood and ice dealer, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born near Orcut Creek, 
nowcalled Willawana P.O., Bradford county, 
Pa., September 11, 1843. He is a son of the* 
late Peter and Abbie (Mercy) Sible. Peter 
Sible was a farmer and spent most of his 
life in Bradford county. His family con- 
sisted of eleven children, of whom four are 
living : William, residing in Harrisburg ; 
Nancy, widow of the late Nathaniel Seeley, 
of Bradford county ; Andrew J., of Hawk- 
eye, Iowa; and John S. The father died at 
the residence of his son John S., in 1879; 
the mother died in 1889, in Bradford county. 

John S. Sible resided in his native town- 
ship up to the age of nineteen and attended 
the public schools. In the fall of 1861 he 
removed to Harrisburg, where he has ever 
since resided. He was in mercantile busi- 
ness here until 1866, when he opened a coal 
and wood yard. In 1876 he added the ice 
business to his undertakings, purchasing the 
old Crook ice house on the Susquehanna 
river, and making to it large and substan- 
tial additions. In 1881 Mr. Sible erected 
his large and commodious ice houses at 
Dauphin, Middle Paxton township. About 
1890 he demolished the buildings on the 
Susquehanna river and built large and con- 
venient structures at Cove Station, Perry 
county. The capacities of his ice houses at 
Cove Station are as follows: they consist of 
nine rooms, each forty by eighty feet, with 
thirty-eight feet between floors, and storage 
capacity of twenty-eight thousand tons of 



ice. These houses are built according to the 
best known methods of construction in the 
United States. They are equipped with three 
double elevators, with a planing machine on 
each elevator for planing the ice-blocks as 
they go to the place of storage. There is 
also a cross elevator running three hundred 
and seventy-five feet in length and fifty-five 
feet in height, for the purpose of carrying off 
the refuse ice. 

Mr. Sible has also erected at these points 
six tenement houses for the use of the men 
and their families employed by him in cut- 
ting, storing and shipping the ice. This 
plant was erected at a cost of $50,000, and is 
the most extensive and the best arranged 
and equipped establishment of the kind in 
the country. It gives employment in the 
season to from one hundred to three hundred 
men, and is capable of housing 5,000 tons of 
ice per day. The Dauphin houses have a 
capacity of 7,500, with appliances for hand- 
ling and storing 1,000 tons per day, both 
houses having a storage capacity of 35,000 
tons of ice. The lakes which furnish 
the ice at Cove Station cover an area of 
thirty-two acres, and are fed by five 
mountain streams, ranging from two hun- 
dred to fifteen thousand feet in length, com- 
ing direct from the mountain woods, and 
perfectly free from impurities. Mr. Sible 
has erected a handsome and commodious 
three-story residence, overlooking the lakes, 
which he has stocked with fine fish ; and 
here he and his family pass the summer 
months. In 1895 Mr. Sible purchased an 
extensive coal yard on the Reading railroad, 
which gives him the privilege of purchasing 
and handling all or any of the best kinds of 
coal. 

He was one of the committee appointed to 
solicit stock subscriptions to build the Peo- 
ple's Bridge, and is now a director of the 
enterprise. He has efficiently and faithfully 
served as president of the City Rescue Mis- 
sion since its organization. He has been ex- 
tensively engaged in contracting for exca- 
vating work ; prominent among these con- 
tracts is the grading of the old reservoir 
grounds. 

Mr. Sible was married in Bradford county 
May 1, 1869, to Emma, daughter of Mills and 
Sarah Carr, old and honored residents of that 
county. They have had four children : 
Edith C, Helen, who died when eight years 
old, Alma, and John Sidney. Mr. Sible and 
his family are all members of Grace Meth- 



482 



Bl GRA PHICAL EN~CYCL OPEDIA 



oolist Episcopal church. His political views 
are Republican. 

If success is a just measure of ability,. Mr. 
Sible must be adjudged to be a man of great 
business talent and skill. By wisely directed 
efforts he has risen to prominence, occupying 
an enviable position as a citizen and man of 
affairs. 



Phillips, Louis 0., coal and wood dealer, 
was born at Fall River, Mass., January 6, 
1847. He is a son of La Roche and Sarah 
B. (Wood) Phillips, both natives of Massa- 
chusetts. His early life was spent in Mas- 
sachussetts and Maine, his education being 
received in the public schools of these States. 
He learned the trade of nailmaker with the 
Pembroke Iron Company, of Pembroke, 
Me., and followed this occupation till March, 
1894. Since that date he has been engaged 
in his present business. He came to Har- 
risburg in the fall of 1870, and from that 
date to March, 1894, was engaged with 
Charles L. Bailey & Co., and for twenty-six 
years has been an honored and respected 
citizen of this city. He was married in 
Pembroke, Me., in 1865,' to Miss Caroline M. 
Reynolds, a daughter of Lemuel T. and Abi- 
gail Reynolds, prominent residents of Pem- 
broke, to whom have been born four chil- 
dren, two of whom are living: Clarence R. 
and Louis 0. Mr. Phillips has represented 
the First ward in the common council for 
three years. He is a member of the Knights 
of Honor and the Heptasophs. In political 
views he is a Republican. He attends the 
Lutheran church. He is classed with the 
steady, conservative and thorough business 
men of the city. 



Boas, Henry D., Harrisburg, Pa., is a son 
of the late Daniel D. and Margaret Boas, 
and was born in Harrisburg, October 11, 
1851. He acquired his primary education 
in the public schools and at Harrisburg 
Academy; he subsequently attended St. 
Paul's School, Concord, N. H. In 1870 he 
entered the office of his father, and at the 
latter's death, in 1878, in connection with 
his brother, William S. Boas, he took charge 
of the business. Since the death of his 
brother Mr. H. D. Boas has assumed entire 
control of the business. He is a member of 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., and 
of the Harrisburg Club. His political opin- 
ions are those of the Democratic party. 

Henry D. Boas was married, October 26, 



1876, to Miss Susan, daughter of Josiah and 
Mary Espey; they have two children: Mary 
Espej' and Sarah Wister. Mr. Boas attends 
St. Stephen's Episcopal church. 

Oves, Henry F., wholesale and retail 
coal dealer, was born in Snyder county, Pa., 
November 22, 1858. His parents were 
among the early settlers of Dauphin county, 
coming here near the beginning of the 
century. His father was Abraham Oves, 
his mother Sarah (Fortney) Oves. His 
father died September 26, 1889 ; his mother 
August 26, 1890. They were most worthy 
people. Their family consisted of four chil- 
dren, three of whom are still living : Henr} r 
F., Mary, wife of John Jacob Franck, resid- 
ing in Harrisburg, and George W., residing 
at McKeesport, Pa. 

Henry F. came in infancy to Harrisburg, 
where he was reared, receiving instruction 
in the public schools. He first entered the 
office of H. B. Mitchell as clerk, and subse- 
quently engaged with Hamilton Bailey in 
the same capacity. He spent eighteen years 
in the employ of Charles L. Bailey & Co., 
proprietors of the Central Iron Works, as 
clerk and foreman. He embarked for him- 
self in the coal business in 1894. 

He was married at Harrisburg, January 
30, 1881, to Miss Minnie F. Reisinger, daugh- 
ter of George and Margaret (Ward) Reis- 
inger, of Harrisburg. Of five children born 
to them, four are living : Gilbert McCauley, 
Horace George, John Ward and Darrah 
Costley. Mr. Oves filled the office of tax 
collector for two years, and ward assessor for 
five years. He is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., Capital City 
Castle, K. of G. E. He is a member of the 
Board of Trade and of the German American 
Society. In political views he is a staunch 
Republican. The family attend the Presby- 
terian church. Mr. Oves is a man of large 
views and of laudable public spirit. He is 
possessed of unusual business ability, and 
his character is stainless. 



Milleisen, G. Frank, dealer in coal and 
wood, was born in Lower Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., February 2, 1861. He 
is a son of George A. and Julia A. (Bitzer) 
Milleisen. George A. Milleisen was a native 
of Dauphin county, born in Lower Paxton 
township. His wife, a native of Lancaster 
county, is still living, and resides in Harris- 
burg. They had five children, two of whom 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



483 



are living, Jacob M., of Harrisburg, and G. 
Frank. 

G. Frank Milleisen lived in his native 
township until he was seven years of age. 
At this time, 1868, the death of his father oc- 
curred. He came with his mother to Har- 
risburg in that year, and has resided here 
continuously ever since. Mr. Milleisen re- 
ceived his education in the public schools of 
Harrisburg, and after its completion en- 
gaged as a salesman in the clothing busi- 
ness. In 1880 he entered the service of J. 
S. Sible, in which he remained fourteen 
years, in the capacity of manager. On April 
1, 1895, he engaged in his present business. 

He was married in Harrisburg February 
25, 1883, to Clara L., daughter of the late 
Benjamin and Susan Musser, of Harrisburg. 
They have no children. Mr. Milleisen is a 
member of Warrior Eagle Lodge, No. 340, 
I. 0. R. M.; of Herculean Castle, K. of G. E., 
and of Royal Arcanum, No. 1101. His po- 
litical views are Republican. He attends 
Zion Lutheran church. 



Stroh, Winfield Scott, coal and wood 
dealer, was born in Harrisburg, December 
1, 1861, son of Isaac F. and Sarah A. (Care), 
both natives of Dauphin county, and both 
deceased. The father was born in Fishing 
Creek A r alley, West Hanover township, was 
connected with the Manada Furnaces for 
many years, and was subsequently engaged 
in the coal and wood business at Harrisburg. 
The parents had five children, four of whom 
are living: Lillie A., wife of Asher Crutch- 
ley, of Harrisburg ; John C, residing in 
Driften, Luzerne county ; Winfield S. and 
Alice C., wife of Henry Christ, of Harris- 
burg. Winfield S. was educated in the 
public schools, and found employment in 
the puddling furnaces, where he worked for 
some years. Subsequently he became man- 
ager of the coal and wood business for his 
father, in which position he continued until 
his father's death in 1883, when he engaged 
in the business for himself. He was married 
in Harrisburg, August 14, 1881, to Catherine 
Warewich, daughter of Michael and Eliza- 
beth Warewich. Their children are: Harry, 
James, Roy and Frank, who died in child- 
hood. The family attend the Methodist 
Episcopal church. 



died January 11, 1896, aged fifty years, nine 
months and seventeen days. A sketch of his 
life appears in another place in this volume. 
Charles E. Hanshaw attended the Harris- 
burg schools, securing a good common school 
education. At the age of fifteen he was em,- 
ployed in the iron works in South Harris- 
burg and continued there four years. At 
the age of nineteen he decided to learn the 
trade of plasterer, in which he was engaged 
for about eight years. After this he went in 
with his father and has been in the coal busi- 
ness ever since that time, with the exception 
of one year, during which he dealt in ice on 
his own account. On October 3, 1895, he 
began a course of study in the Harrisburg 
Business College, which he is still pursuing. 
Upon the death of his father the business 
came into his hands and he is now conduct- 
ing it on his own account. He is abundantly 
qualified to do so and is making it success- 
ful. He enjoys the esteem of those who 
know him. He is unmarried. In political 
views he is Republican. He is a member of 
the Second Reformed church. 



Hanshaw, Charles E., coal dealer, Har- 
risburg, was born April 21, 1867. He is the 
only son of Daniel M. Hanshaw. His father 



Kelley, Harry S., was born at Mt. Joy, 
Pa., September 27, 1867. His parents, Rich- 
ard P. and Catherine (Stayer) Kelley, are 
natives of Lancaster county, and his mother 
is still living, having her home in New Jer- 
sey. Harry S. spent his boyhood at Mt. Joy, 
and secured his education in the schools of 
that place. When sixteen years of age he 
removed to Harrisburg, and since that time 
he has been continuously engaged in the 
coal business with his uncle, H. M. Kelley. 
He has had entire charge of the extensive 
business since 1887, and in 1890 he was ad- 
mitted to the firm of H. M. Kelley & Co., as 
a full partner in the business. This large 
success and rapid advancement are due to 
his characteristic energy, his demonstrated 
and recognized executive ability, and his 
agreeable social qualities. The development 
of the great business of his firm to its present 
dimensions and standing is" largely due to 
his unflagging devotion and marked ability 
and capacity. Mr. Kelley holds a promi- 
nent place in fraternity circles, holding mem- 
bership in the following orders, namelv: 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M.; 
Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, R. A. M.; Pil- 
grim Commandery, No. 11; Harrisburg 
Council. No. 7, and Harrisburg Consistory, 
S. P. R. S., 32°; Pisgah Temple of Read- 
ing. He is a Republican in politics, and 



484 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



has so far escaped matrimonial bonds. His 
career is an honorable one, and is an object 
lesson to young men as to what a firm pur- 
pose, high aims and business capacity will 
enable a man to accomplish. 



Wallis, Frank J., Harrisburg, was born 
at Liverpool, Perrv county, Pa., November 
23, 1868, son of" Robert and Margaret 
(McLinn) Wallis. He attended the public 
schools in Perry county until he was seven- 
teen years of age. He then was for one 
year a clerk at Port Royal, Juniata county, 
in the store of R. Raumels & Son. In 1887 
he came to Harrisburg, where he clerked 
for a year and a half in the grocery store of 
E. A. Hoffer, and in 1889 was employed as 
bookkeeper by H. M. Kelley, in the coal 
trade, with whom he remained one year, 
after which he was with another coal com- 
pany in the same capacity for six months. 
Since 1890 Mr. Wallis has been bookkeeper 
for J. B. Montgomery. For three years he 
was associated with his father in the livery 
business. He was married at Harrisburg, 
October 5, 1893, to Miss Annie F. McKee, 
daughter of G. and Mary McKee. Mr. Wallis 
is a member of Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, I. 
0. 0. F. In church fellowship he is con- 
nected with Christ's Lutheran church. Mrs. 
Wallis was born October 10, 1871, and her 
parents were both natives of Perry county. 

Shaffer, William S., dealer in wall 
paper, was born in Philadelphia, March 11, 
1825, son of George W. and Mary (Stowe) 
Hoffer, and is one of fourteen children born 
to his parents. He was reared and educated 
in his native city and became an apprentice 
to the paper hanging business before he was 
thirteen years of age. He followed this oc- 
cupation in Philadelphia until 1855, when 
he removed to Harrisburg and established 
himself in the paper hanging business, in 
which he has been engaged for the past forty 
years. Mr. Shaffer was married in Philadel- 
phia, June 18, 1846, to Miss Elizabeth Jane 
Reeside, daughter of David and Ann (Ehr- 
man) Reeside, of Scotch and German ances- 
try. She was born in Harford county, Md., 
October 3, 1824. Her father was a stone 
mason by trade and a resident of Philadelphia 
many years. Her uncle was an extensive 
mail contractor under Jackson's administra- 
tion. They had two children : William H. 
and Elizabeth Jane, who died in childhood. 
Mr. Shaffer came into the Republican party 



from the old Whig party, having cast his 
first vote for Henry Clay, and while not an 
office seeker has been prominent in politics, 
having been the first president of the school 
board, after the consolidation of the city, and 
having served as an efficient member of the 
select council one term. For twenty-five 
years he has been an active member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., and for 
forty years has been a member of the Market 
Square Presbyterian church, having been a 
member of the same denomination in Phila- 
delphia. Physical disability prevented his 
enlistment in the late war, but he served 
twice as an emergency man, first at Antietam 
and next at Gettysburg, and was of valuable 
assistance to the military authorities at Camp 
Curtin and to the provost marshal. William 
H.Shaffer, his only surviving child, was born 
in Philadelphia, November 25, 1847, and 
came with his parents to Harrisburg in 1855, 
where he was educated in C. V. May's acad- 
emy, and at the end of his school days en- 
gaged in his father's business, in which he 
has been active since 1876. He first married 
at Tamaqua, Schuylkill county, in 1869, Hen- 
rietta Bond,who died in 1878, leaving two chil- 
dren : William S. and Edith B. He married, 
secondly, at Chambersburg, in 1880, Emma 
R. Witherspoon, daughter of David and 
Nancy Ann Witherspoon, to whom no chil- 
dren have been born. Mr. Shaffer is a mem- 
ber of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & 
A. M., and of Harrisburg Council, No. 499, 
Royal Arcanum, of which he has been the 
collector for the past sixteen years. Mr. and 
Mrs. Shaffer are members of Market Square 
Presbyterian church. Mr. Shaffer is a mem- 
ber of the Brotherhood of Andrew and 
Philip and secretary of the chapter. 

Bergstresser, Alexander W., dealer in 
wall paper and window shades, was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., December 1, 1833. He is a 
son of William and Mary (Watson) Berg- 
stresser, both natives of Dauphin county. 
His grandparents on the father's side were 
natives of Northumberland county, but early 
became residents of Dauphin county. His 
grandfather was John Bergstresser; his 
grandmother had been a Miss Wilkinson. 
The maternal grandfather, Jackson Watson, 
came to America from Ireland when but 
nine years old. and from that date spent his 
entire life in Harrisburg. where he passed 
away. He was a son of Alexander Watson, 
a native of Ireland, and for many years a 




code; <?£/. JSkXco^c&^r 



KA.&KAoter, fvWdWB,A« ; 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



487 



resident of Cumberland county. He mar- 
ried Miss Sophia Hoover, and spent his de- 
clining years in Harrisburg with his son, 
Jackson Watson. The wife of Jackson Wat- 
son, maternal grandmother of A. W. Berg- 
stresser, was a Miss Wentz, bora in Hum- 
melstown, Pa., in 1789. William Berg- 
stresser, father of Alexander W., was a mill- 
wright, and prominent as a business man in 
Harrisburg. He died in May, 1844; his 
wife had died in 1842. The)' were the pa- 
rents of three children : Alexander W., Will- 
iam J. and Isabella C, wife of Martin 
Keeney, all residing in Harrisburg. 

Alexander W. Bergstresser was educated 
in the public schools of Harrisburg. He 
has spent his entire life in this city, with 
the exception of two years' service in the 
United States army during the war of the 
Rebellion. After completing his education 
he learned house painting and paper hang- 
ing, and for about six years was connected 
with his uncle and brother in that business. 
Subsequently he was in the same business 
with his brother for about five years. From 
1866 to 1877 he was senior member of the 
firm of Bergstresser & Boyd. Since the latter 
date he has been conducting business solely 
in his own interest. During this time he 
has devoted all his attention to wall paper 
and window shades. In July, 1863, Mr. 
Bergstresser enlisted in company C, Seventy- 
ninth Pennsylvania volunteers, as a private, 
was detailed as a musician, and served until 
September, 1864, when he was discharged 
from the army, as a private, at Jonesboro', 
Ga. He re-enlisted as a musician in the 
band of the Third brigade, First divsion, 
Fourteenth army corps, and served until the 
close of the war. He was mustered out at 
Harrisburg in June, 1865, having served his 
country faithfully for two years. During 
that term he had served in the double capa- 
city of musician and chief clerk of the quar- 
termaster's department of the Third brigade. 

Alexander W. Bergstresser was married in 
Harrisburg, September 12, 1857, to Anna 
E., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Sach, 
who was born in Carrolton, New Orleans, 
and later a resident of Lancaster county, 
Pa. Their children are six in number : 
Edwin R.; Alice W., who died at the age of 
seventeen years ; Alexander W., of Philadel- 
phia; Anna E., wife of Eustace B. Grimes, 
Philadelphia ; Grace E., living at home. 
Mr. Bergstresser is a member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A.M.; Persever- 
34 



ance Chapter, No. 21, R. A. M., and Pil- 
grim Commandery, No. 11, K. T. He has 
for forty-three years belonged to Dauphin 
Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. 0. F. He is a member 
of Central Lodge, No. 19, A. 0. U. W. In 
political views he is a Democrat. He at- 
tends the Presbyterian church. 

Adams, William J., furniture dealer, Nos. 
106-12 South Second street, Harrisburg, Pa., 
was born in county Down, Ireland, Decem- 
ber 25, 1837. He is a son of James and 
Margerie (Adams) Adams. He was reared 
in his native county and educated in night 
schools. He learned the trade of linen 
manufacturer, and came to America in 1857, 
locating in Philadelphia for a short time; 
then found employment on a farm, and 
worked there for three years. He next went to 
Chester. Pa., and became a blacksmith helper 
in the Pennsylvania Railroad shops. The 
shops were abandoned and the men were dis- 
tributed to other works of the company. Mr. 
Adams came to Harrisburg in 1861, and re- 
mained in the employment of the railroad 
company until 1862. In July of that year 
he enlisted in company A, One Hundred and 
Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania volunteers, 
as quartermaster's sergeant, and served nine 
months. In 1863 he formed a partnership 
with John T. Ensminger in the furniture 
business. In 1864 he enlisted in company 
G, Two Hundred and First Pennsylvania 
volunteers, and after two months' service 
was put on detailed duty as acting assistant 
adjutant general of the Juniata, with head- 
quarters at Chambersburg, Pa.; he served for 
five months in this capacity, and was then 
detailed to the provost marshal's office at 
Pittsburgh, Pa., where he remained until 
the close of the war. 

He continued his partnership with Mr. 
Ensminger until 1868, when they dissolved 
their business relations, he continuing in 
the business as W. J. Adams at his present 
location, and as senior member of the firm 
of W. J. Adams & Bro., on Market street, 
for a number of years. In 1891 he ad- 
mitted his son to partnership, and the 
firm has since been W. J. Adams & Son. 
Mr. Adams is a stockholder in the East Har- 
risburg Traction Company, the Harrisburg 
National Bank and Trust Company, and 
Kelker Street Market House. 

He is a Republican. In 1879-80 he 
served as a member of the select council, 
and was president of that body in 1881. 



488 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



He resigned this office after serving one 
year, in order to pay a visit to his native 
country, from which he had been absent 
twenty-five years. In 1887 he was a member 
of common council. During his member- 
ship in both branches of the council he 
served on many important committees. In 
February, 1895, he was elected to the school 
board from the Second ward. He is a mem- 
ber of Post 58, G. A. R. 

He was married, in 1866, to Miss Emma 
J., daughter of George Welker, of Harris- 
burg. She died March 31, 1885. They had 
six children : George Welker Adams, born 
August 31, 1869, and was educated in the 
high school of Harrisburg and the com- 
mercial college ; became a partner with his 
father in 1891, and is an active young busi- 
ness man ; is a stockholder in the East Har- 
risburg Traction Company, the Lebanon 
Valley Railroad Company and the Cambria 
and Juniata railroad ; William J., Jr., born 
November 3, 1871, graduated from Lehigh 
University as an electrical engineer; Rich- 
ard L., Emma K., Robert G. and Helen A. 

Mr. Adams was again married, in 1887, to 
Miss Hattie B., daughter of Samuel Mann, 
of Harrisburg; they have two children, 
Esther Jane and Irene. Mr. Adams is a 
member of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal 
church, and is a local preacher, having 
been ordained by Bishop Andrews, of York, 
Pa. He is also a trustee of the church. 



Ogelsby, Joseph J., furniture dealer and 
undertaker, was born in Harrisburg March 
23, 1838. He is a son of the late Jonah and 
Phoebe (Miller) Ogelsby. His parents were 
both natives of Chester county, were of 
Scotch-Irish ancestry, and were Quakers. 
They settled in Harrisburg in 1837. The 
father was a manufacturer of sickles and 
worked at this industry for many years in 
Chester county. In 1838 he removed to 
Susquehanna township, where he was a 
prominent agriculturalist till 1856. He died 
at- the residence of his son, Washington P., 
in Philadelphia, in 1885, at the advanced age 
of ninety-five years. He had a family of nine 
children, of whom but two are now living, 
Joseph J. and Washington P., of Philadel- 
phia. 

Joseph J. Ogelsby, when but an infant, 
came with his parents to Susquehanna town- 
ship, where he remained till he was seven- 
teen years of age. He worked upon his 
father's farm, receiving such educational 



advantages as could be obtained in the 
district schools during the winter months. 
In January, 1856, Mr. Ogelsby was ap- 
prenticed to the firm of J. R. Boyd & Son, 
Harrisburg, to learn the cabinet-making 
business. He was a faithful emplo3 T ee in the 
service of this firm for twenty-three years. 
Since 1879 he has been continuously engaged 
in business for himself in this city. He was 
married in Harrisburg, June 25, 1863, to 
Miss Fannie Mauma, a daughter of Jacob 
and Nancy Mauma, of Harrisburg. They 
have had seven children, of whom five are 
living: Warwick M., Joseph N., Boyd M., 
Fannie M., and Martha, all residing in Har- 
risburg. 

In August, 1862, Mr. Ogelsby enlisted in 
the One Hundred and Twenty-seventh Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers, and served for nine 
months. Iu August, 1864, he re-enlisted in 
the Two Hundred and First Pennsylvania 
volunteers and served for a further time 
of one year in this regiment. He is a 
member of Post No. 58, G. A. R., and also of 
the Royal Arcanum. In politics he is a 
staunch Republican. The family attend the 
Lutheran church. 



Stoey, John R., dealer in wall paper and 
window shades, was born in Mechanicsburg, 
Cumberland county, Pa., February IS, 1839. 
He is a son of George W. B. and Rachel 
(Ritner) Stoey; his mother is a niece of ex- 
Governor Ritner, and daughter of John D. 
Ritner. George W. B. Stoey was born in 
Lebanon, January 3, 1813. He is a son of 

Henry and Stoey, and a grandson 

of the late Dr. Stoey, of Lebanon. He spent 
the greater part of his life in Cumberland 
county, but his later years have been passed 
in Harrisburg. His wife is a native of Cum- 
berland county, and is still living. They 
were the parents of fifteen children. John 
R. is the eldest survivor of their family, the 
others being: Catherine, wife of Isaac R. 
Smith, of Harrisburg; Washington L., grocer, 
Harrisburg ; William Wesley, taxidermist 
and naturalist, of Harrisburg; Clara E., wife 
of Finley Rogers, of Mechanicsburg; Oliver 
P., practicing physician at Roxbury, Frank- 
lin county, Pa.; and Elmer E., resident at 
Williamsport, Pa. 

John R. Stoey spent his boyhood in his 
native county. He received only a limited 
school education ; the greater part of his 
training and development has been afforded 
by experience of men and business in the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



489 



struggles of life. When but ten years of age 
he started in life for himself, working for his 
board and clothing only for three years, after 
which he received three dollars per month. 
He continued to work at farming until he 
was seventeen years old, at which time he 
was earning the munificent pay of seven dol- 
lars per month. Tired of this kind of work, 
he walked to Mechanicsburg and engaged 
with Simon Arnold as store boy. After re- 
maining for six months with him he con- 
cluded it would be better for him to learn a 
trade. He served an apprenticeship at paint- 
ing and paper hanging, at which he worked 
asapprentice and journeyman for seven years. 
In 1874 he engaged in his present business 
in Harrisburg. 

In August, 1862, Mr. Stoey enlisted in com- 
pany A, One Hundred and Thirtieth Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, and served for four 
months. He was wounded at the battle of 
Antietam, but fought through the battle, not- 
withstanding the injury. On account of dis- 
ability resulting from his wound he received 
an honorable discharge at the Cotton Factory 
Hospital, Harrisburg, on surgeon's certificate 
of disability. On December 24, 1862, he re- 
enlisted for one year in the Two Hundred 
and First Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
served umil June 21, 1865, when he was 
again mustered out of the service at Harris- 
burg, having served as first sergeant of his 
company. 

John R. Stoey was married at Carlisle, Pa., 
December 31, 1863, to Adeline A. Bobb, 
daughter of George G. and Mary Bobb, of 
Cumberland county. They have no children 
of their own, but have adopted a daughter, 
Carrie E. 

Mr. Stoey has represented the Fifth ward in 
common council for three years. He is a 
member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, 
Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, Pilgrim Com- 
mander}' and Harrisburg Consistory, F. & A. 
M. He is an honorary member of Harris- 
burg Council, No. 106, 0. U. A. M. He is a 
comrade in Seneca G. Simmons Post, No. 116, 
G. A. R. 

Mr. Stoey is a Republican. He and his 
wife have been, since 1868, members of Grace 
Methodist Episcopal church. 



Ensminger, John T., auctioneer, commis- 
sion merchant and furniture dealer, was 
born at Harrisburg, March 9, 1842, and is a 
son of Philip and Elizabeth (Shrenk) Ens- 
minger. His grandfather Ensminger was 



born in Lancaster county, but settled in 
Harrisburg at a very early date in the his- 
tory of the city. His father, Philip Ens- 
minger, was born in Harrisburg, October 
24, 1802. He was engaged in the butcher- 
ing business, but subsequently was for many 
years engaged in the furniture business, and 
continued in it until succeeded, in 1860, by 
his son, John T. The mother was born in 
Dauphin county, December 18, 1809. The 
parents were married October 25, 1838. 
They had six children: Charles M., born 
September 2, 1840, died December 10, 1840; 
John T.; Frances Marion, born August 18, 
1844, wife of Charles Brown, now residing 
in New York Citv ; Ellen Virginia, born 
February 13, 1847, wife of W. O. Bishop, 
residing in Harrisburg; Catherine Jane, 
born July 10, 1849, wife of W. E. Smith, 
residing at Plainfield, N. J., and Louis Kos- 
suth, born February 9, 1852, and died April 
12, 1852. By a previous marriage there 
was a family of four children, none of whom 
are now living. Joseph Ensminger, brother 
of Philip, was born in Dauphin county, De- 
cember 17, 1798, and was the organizer and 
captain of the first company of Minors, 
(their ages ranging fron sixteen to eighteen 
years), which he took to Baltimore against 
the English. He still survives, and resides 
at Crawfordsville, Ind., hale and hearty at the 
advanced age of ninety -seven years. Samuel, 
another brother of Philip, was born in Har- 
risburg, May 21, 1811, and was a prominent 
business man in Carlisle, Pa., for many years, 
where he is well and favorably known, and 
is now a resident of Topeka, Kan. 

John T. attended the public schools of 
this city and completed his education at the 
Academy of Newville, after which he en- 
gaged in the furniture business with his 
father, and succeeded him, as stated above, 
in 1860. On the breaking out of the Re- 
bellion in 1861, he gave a striking illustra- 
tion of his patriotism by closing up his 
place of business and offering his ser- 
vices in the defense of his county. He 
enlisted in the Twenty-fifth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, was attached 
to company F, and served three months. 
He then re-enlisted as a private in the 
One Hundred and Twenty-seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, in company 
A, and served nine months, and during this 
time was promoted to second lieutenant. 
At the expiration of this time he again en- 
listed, this time in the Two Hundred and 



490 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



First regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and was appointed captain of company G. 
He served with this regiment until the close 
of the war. He was mustered out of ser- 
vice at Harrisburg, June 25, 1865, having 
served continuously during the war in de- 
fense of his country, during which time he 
participated in some of the most important 
battles fought in subduing the Rebellion. 
At the time of his discharge he was acting 
in the capacity of provost marshal of the 
Monongahela district, with headquarters at 
Pittsburgh. At the close of the war he re- 
turned to his business, which he has since 
conducted with credit and success. He has 
been twice married. His first wife, to whom 
he was joined December 26, 1866, at Car- 
lisle, Pa., was Miss Sallie C. Fought, daugh- 
ter of Jonas Fought. The children of this 
marriage are: Edgar Irwin, born October 3, 
1868, and Amy Florence, born May 11, 
1870, and died March 18, 1871. Mrs. 
Ensminger died at Harrisburg, August 7, 
1870. His second marriage occurred at 
Harrisburg, December 30, 1873, in which he 
was united to Mary J. Charles, daughter of 
Henry R. Charles, of Union county, Pa. 
The children of this marriage are : Eugene 
Charles, born February 21, 1875, Grace Ste- 
phenson, born December 29, 1876, John 
Tyler and George Hursh, twins, born April 
26, 1878. Mr. Ensminger has represented 
the Third ward of Harrisburg in the com- 
mon council. He is a member of Col. 
Seneca G. Simmons Post, No. 116, G. A. R. 
In political views he is a staunch Republi- 
can. He attends Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



YitresT, Frederick W., furniture and car- 
pet dealer, was born in Harrisburg Decem- 
ber 21, 1843, son of Carl and Anna (Snavely) 
Yingst. He was reared and educated in his 
native city. At the age of sixteen years he 
became an apprentice to the house and sign 
painting trade with the late John Cruik- 
shank, a well-known mechanic. In 1862, 
when he was eighteen years old, Mr. Yingst 
enlisted in company A, One Hundred and 
Twenty-seventh regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, for nine months, served his 
time and was discharged and mustered 
out at Harrisburg, when he re-enlisted in 
eompany G, One Hundred and Ninety-fourth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, for three 
months, and was commissioned as second 
lieutenant of his company. Having served 



his term he was again discharged, and the 
third time enlisted in company D, Seventy- 
eighth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and was orderly sergeant of his company. 
He served in this regiment until June, 1865, 
when he was finally mustered out at Nash- 
ville, Tenn., having served in the army, in 
all, two years. He then returned to Harris- 
burg and embarked in the furniture and 
carpet trade, and since that time has been 
continuously in the business in this city. He 
was married in Harrisburg, July 4, 1871, to 
Theresa Youder, daughter of Daniel and 
Mary (Frank) Youder, and to them has been 
born four children : Walter H., Robert M., 
Anna M., and Gertrude A., all living and 
residing in Harrisburg. Mr. Yingst is a 
member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, 
Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, Harrisburg 
Council, No. 7, and Pilgrim Commandery, 
No. 11, F. & A. M. Since he was twenty-one 
years of age he has been a member of State 
Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. O. O. F., and was 
for man}' years also a member of Olive En- 
campment, No. 56, I. O. O. F. In political 
views he is liberal and independent, voting 
for men rather than party. Mr. Yingst has 
been a member of the First Reformed church 
for twenty-seven years, of which his wife and 
family are ail members, excepting Walter 
H., who belongs to the Market Square Pres- 
b}'terian church. 

Hoover, Joseph W., furniture dealer, Har- 
risburg, Pa., was born in Mechanicsburg, 
Cumberland county, Pa., June 15, 1850. Pie 
is a son of Samuel and Nancy Ann (Kun- 
kle) Hoover, the former born in Cumberland 
county, January 2, 1812, the latter in York 
county, Pa., December 2, 1815. They had 
nine children : (1) Mary, born December 10, 
1834, died September 24, 1871; married 
Joseph Carl, and had two children, who mar- 
ried and removed West; (2) John H., born 
March 17, 1836 ; tinner, of Indianapolis, Ind.; 
has been twice married ; his second wife is 
living; (3) Samuel, born March 11, 1838, 
and is deceased ; he married Miss Laura 
Collins, who with two daughters survives 
him ; at the time of his death he was fore- 
man of the tinning department of the Phila- 
delphia and Reading Railroad Company; 
his daughters are Emma, wife of Harry 
Yoder, of Harrisburg, and Ida, with an aunt 
in Philadelphia; (4) William Henry, born 
February 10, 1841, died March 11, 1841 ; (5) 
Elizabeth, born February 15, 1842 ; resides 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



491 



in Philadelphia, widow of the late Robert 
G. Hilsee; (6) Sarah, born September 11, 

1844, died September 8, 1865; married Henry 
Bittle, of Mechanicsburg; her husband and 
her son, Elmer, survive her; (7) Catherine, 
born March 21, 1847 ; married Louis Troup, 
of Cumberland county ; died in Harrisburg, 
leaving four children; (8) Joseph W. 

Joseph W. Hoover lost his father by death 
when he was eight years old, and was com- 
pelled to begin the struggle of life early. For 
ten years, faithfully and without complaint, 
he bore the burden of hard labor on the 
farm. At the age of eighteen he began, in 
Philadelphia, to learn bricklaying, and fin- 
ished his apprenticeship four years later. 
For some time he worked at his trade as 
journeyman. For the following twelve 
years he was in the transfer business; in 
1885 he entered the service of Adams Ex- 
press Company, in which he remained until 
the spring of 1894. In June of that year he 
established himself in the furniture business 
at Nos. 334-336 Broad street, Harrisburg, 
where he has built up a large and rapidly 
increasing trade. 

He was married, November 10, 1872, to 
Emma Frances, daughter of Benjamin and 
Rachel (Shin) Fish, born in Philadelphia, 
January 20, 1853. They have one daughter 
living, Alice Josephine, born May 17, 1880. 

Mr. Hoover is a member of Dauphin 
Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. O. F. He attends 
Ridge Avenue Methodist Episcopal church. 

Benjamin Fish, father of Mrs. Hoover, was 
born in Pittsgrove, Salem county, N. J., Au- 
gust 30, 1823. He was married, March 13, 

1845, to Rachel Shin, a native of the same 
place. She died May 13, 1858, leaving four 
small children. In 1862 Mr. Fish married 
again, and in 1865 removed to Mechanics- 
burg, Cumberland county, Pa., his daughter, 
Emma Frances, afterwards Mrs. Hoover, be- 
ing at that time eleven years old. He re- 
sided at Mechanicsburg until his death, 
which occurred January 13, 1882. He was 
a man of prominence and of great personal 
worth and highly esteemed in the com- 
munity ; his death caused universal sorrow. 
Mr. Fish's attainments, as well as his natural 
endowments, were more than ordinary. In 
his chosen occupation, that of a coachsmith, 
his mechanical genius was displayed in the 
skill and ingenuity of his workmanship, and 
in the completeness, finish and durability of 
his productions. His fellow-citizens, among 
whom he had lived for seventeen years, bore 



testimony to the virtues of his life and char- 
acter as they were exhibited in the various 
relations sustained by him, of son, husband, 
father, brother, neighbor and friend. A 
workingman himself, he was the working- 
man's friend, and in his own person and 
conduct embodied the excellencies of the 
ideal American mechanic. His manhood 
was of a true type, rounded out in the four 
cardinal elements of industry, intelligence, 
honesty and piety. While he toiled daily 
at his forge, hammering into shapeliness and 
welding together the parts of an intricate 
mechanism, he at the same time endeavored 
to lead his thoughts to a comprehension 
of the State and, tendencies of the elements 
and forces actively at work in this progres- 
sive age, resulting in new social forms and 
improved institutions. 

He was as earnest and tireless in his 
efforts to provide material for the strength- 
ening and enlargement of his mind as to 
procure food for his body. In order to live 
and to enjoy, he felt he must be intelligent ; 
he was convinced that ignorance and indif- 
ference to truth are as inimical to happiness 
and true peace of soul as sloth and shiftless- 
ness are to material interests. History, the 
story of men, was his favorite study, and his 
especial delight was the history of his own 
country. On all subjects he sought to store 
his mind with information which could be 
his own solace in hours of leisure, and enable 
him to entertain and edify others in social 
intercourse. This knowledge, though gained 
at some disadvantage, as it must of necessity 
be accumulated after the close of his day's 
toil, was nevertheless of a degree and com- 
prehensiveness surpassed by the acquire- 
ments of very few men. The contemplation 
of his country's history inspired him with 
patriotism, and led him to recognize the 
great truth that genuine love of country can 
be instilled into the rising generation only 
so far as they are made intelligent concern- 
ing the history of their nation. This led 
Mr. Fish to make a valuable and striking 
suggestion to his fellow-citizens of Mechanics- 
burg, in the centennial year, which was to 
enclose the records of the history of the town 
and of their times in an iron chest, to be 
sealed and remain unopened till the end of 
the century. The iron chest for that pur- 
pose he constructed with his own hands, and 
the suggestion was carried out. It immedi- 
ately called forth favorable comment 
throughout the country. 



492 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



And last, but far more important than all 
else, Mr. Fish was of a deeply religious nature, 
and found his highest satisfaction in its cul- 
ture and gratification. His happiest mo- 
ments were spent in prayer and praise, by 
which his soul was lifted up to the dwelling 
place and throne of God. He was conscious 
of his own imperfections, of his frailties and 
failures, of his unworthiness and sin; but he 
had a sublime faith in the blood of the Lord 
Jesus Christ and in the power of divine 
grace, by which his soul was fortified in the 
time of affliction and in the hour of dissolu- 
tion. In the presence of the king of terrors 
no cloud of doubt or fear obscured his vision 
of the Saviour. In the triumphs of the 
cross he passed away, murmuring with al- 
most his last breath, "Jesus, lover of my 
soul." 



Adams, Richard.- — The career of this 
well-known and recognized man of Harris- 
burg was not long in years, but in spirit and 
character it was such as to leave an abiding 
impress in the community. He was born in 
county Down, Ireland, August 15, 1850. 
His parents, James and Margerie Adams, 
were people of intelligenceand of good social 
standing, and realized the importance of 
careful training and competent instruction 
in preparing their son for the duties of life. 
Both at home and in the best schools his 
intellectual faculties were developed and 
trained, and his mind was stored with infor- 
mation which .gave him a clear view of life, 
its opportunities and its responsibilities. He 
was active and mature, and was ready and 
anxious to enter the paths of business early 
in life. He first engaged in business at 
Bainbridge, Ireland, with Mr. James Dodds, 
and before he reached his majority continued 
with him for six years. He longed for the 
broader fields and larger opportunities 
which a newer country with its vast re- 
sources undeveloped affords the ambitious 
young man, and hence in 1869 he came to 
the United States and located at Harrisburg. 
His choice of locality was perhaps deter- 
mined by the fact that his elder brother, 
William J., was already established in busi- 
ness in this city. He very soon became as- 
sociated with his brother in business, and 
his entire business career was occupied with 
the firm thus formed. The brothers were 
partners for over twenty jears, and were 
always in accord in their views and plans, 
and were eminently successful. Richard re- 



tired from the firm only a few months pre- 
vious to his death with a comfortable com- 
petence for his family, or with ample capital 
for other business or investments, as inclina- 
tion and opportunity might invite. 

Mr. Adams was interested and active in 
developing the general resources and enter- 
prises of the city. He was one of the orginal 
stockholders of the East Harrisburg Traction 
Company, and was identified with many 
other important industries of a public nature, 
among which were the People's Bridge Com- 
pany and Kelker Street Market Company, 
of which he was one of the promoters as well 
as stockholder. His life was suddenly ter- 
minated by the collision of trains on the 
Pennsylvania railroad. He had been to 
Philadelphia with his wife to place her under 
the care of an eminent physician, and had 
nearly reached the termination of his return 
journey when by an unexplained confusion 
of signals one section of an express train 
dashed into another, and Mr. Adams was 
instantly killed, June 24, 1892. Although 
his life was cut off when he was just enter- 
ing his prime, in his forty-second year, he 
had in this brief time accomplished the 
great ends of living. His family were left 
with property sufficient to meet all their 
needs, and he had attained that completeness 
and maturity of character and preparation of 
heart which made him read}- for the future 
and spiritual existence into which death in- 
troduced him. Mr. Adams was a sincere and 
devout Christian, with unassuming piety 
and unostentatious charity adorning his re- 
ligious profession. 

His church membership was first with the 
Vine Street Methodist Episcopal church, but 
afterwards he became one of the leading 
spirits- in the Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church and the material and spiritual pros- 
perity of this important religious enterprise 
were always near his heart. 

Mr. Adams was married, September 23, 
1875, to Miss Susan A., daughter of George 
and Susan (Ford) Welker, of Harrisburg, 
who survives him. The}- had five children : 
Susan Welker, born August 15, 1876, died 
December 27, 1881; James Laird, born April 
21, 1878; Margerie Jane, born April 15, 
1880 ; John Ford, born December 19, 1881 ; 
and Charlotte, born July 30, 1891. 



Goldsmith, Joseph, manufacturer of fur- 
niture and general upholsterer, was born in 
the province of Hesse Darmstadt, February 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



493 



3, 1835. He is a son of Meyer and Bella 
Goldsmith, who were natives of the same 
province, now both deceased. They had 
born to them a family of nine children, eight 
of whom came to America. Six still reside 
in this country, namely : Abraham, a prom- 
inent clothing merchant of Harrisburg; 
Sarah, wife of Ferdinand Jesselson, of New 
York City; Arsar, residing in Brooklyn, N.Y.; 
Caroline, wife of August Levisou, residing in 
Nyack, N. Y.; Joseph, and Mina, widow of 
the late Judah Knep, who now resides in her 
native home. 

Joseph was educated in the public schools 
of his, native town. At the age of thirteen 
he was apprenticed to the upholsterer's trade, 
serving for four years. In August, 1871, he 
left his native home to try his fortune in 
America. After working four years at his 
trade in New York City he removed to Har- 
risburg, where he has made his home for the 
past twenty-five years, having been for fifteen 
years past engaged in business for himself. 
He was married in Harrisburg, June 15, 
1881, to Miss Frieda Kuhn, daughter of 
Abraham Kuhn, of Bavaria. They have 
three children : Isabella, Carrie, and Meyer 
Lee. Mr. Goldsmith is a member of .Peace 
and Plenty Lodge, No. 69, I. 0. 0. F. In 
politics he is a Republican. He attends the 
Second Street Jewish synagogue. The busi- 
ness tact and enterprise of Mr. Goldsmith, 
coupled with his genial manners and per- 
sonal worth, have resulted in securing him a 
large patronage and wide popularity. 

Hoover, Charles F., furniture and car- 
pet dealer, was born in Harrisburg, February 
25, 1861. He is a son of William and Mary 
B. (Yingst) Hoover. William H. Hoover 
was born in York county. For many years 
he was an honored resident of Harrisburg. 
He served three years in the army, in the 
defense of his country, and was during that 
time in three branches of the service, infantry, 
artillery and cavalry. He took part in many 
of the famous battles. He received injuries 
in the service which eventuated in his death 
in 1865. He married Mary B. Yingst, born 
in Harrisburg, who is still living in this 
city. Their family consisted of two children: 
Charles F. and a daughter, Anna Laura, who 
died in infancy. 

Charles F. Hoover began his education in 
the city public schools. At the age of eleven 
he entered Whitehall Soldiers' Orphans' 
School, where his education was completed. 



He worked for two years at house painting. 
He then removed to Adebolt, Iowa, where 
he resided two years, engaged in painting 
under contracts. He next removed to Phil- 
adelphia, and was in the service of John 
Wanamaker & Co., in their carpet depart- 
ment, -for about two years. Returning to 
Harrisburg, he was for the next ten years in 
the carpet business with F. W. Yingst. In 
1891 he went into business for himself. He 
was married in Harrisburg, May 1, 1883, to 
Elizabeth B., daughter of George and Anna 
Dinger, of Harrisburg. They have had 
three children : William H, Charles R., died 
at the age of three years and ten months, 
and Robert Patterson. Mr. Hoover is a 
member of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, Olive 
Encampment, No. 56, and Susanna Rebecca 
Lodge, No. 244, 1. 0. 0. F.; Cincinnatus Com- 
mandery, No. 96, K. of M.; Herculean Castle, 
No. 480, K. of G. E., and K. of H. In poli- 
tics he is independent. He and his family 
attend the Lutheran church. 



Hughes, Washington R., dealer in wall 
paper and window shades, was born in Har- 
risburg, July 12, 1861. He is a son of Al- 
bert and Rebecca (Reeder) Hughes. Albert 
Hughes was born in Philadelphia. He 
came to Harrisburg about 1858, and with 
the exception of two years spent in St. 
Louis, Mo., has been a resident here since 
that date. He was a builder, and erected 
some of the most prominent dwelling houses 
in the city. His wife died January 25, 
1896. Washington R. Hughes received a 
part of his education in the Harrisburg 
schools. During the two years' residence of 
the family in St. Louis he attended the 
public schools of that city. On his re- 
turn to Harrisburg he completed his edu- 
cation at Gause's Academy. He then 
learned printing, and subsequent^ paper 
hanging." He has been engaged in his 
present business since January, 1887. He 
is an active member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M. ; Perseverance Chapter, 
No. 21, R. A. M. ; Pilgrim Commandery, No. 
11, K. T. ; Harrisburg Sovereign Consistory, 
Harrisburg. and Lulu Temple, A. A. 0. N. 
M. S., of Philadelphia. Mr. Hughes is a 
Democrat, and attends the Presbyterian 
church. 



Gotjgh, Henry W., managing partner of 
the firm of H. W. Gough & Co., dealers in 
furniture, was born in Monmouthshire, 



49-1 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Wales, December 6, 1861, and is the only 
surviving issue of William and Elizabeth 
(Thomas) Gough. In the early part of 1862 
his father left his native land in a sailing 
vessel to seek a home for his family in the 
New World. After a tedious passage, he 
reached New York on the fourth day of July, 
1862, and at once proceeded to Danville, 
Pa., where he concluded to take up his resi- 
dence. In the following year his wife and 
family, including Henry W., also left the 
shores of old England and set out to join 
the husband and father, who eagerly wel- 
comed them on their arrival in New York 
in August, 1863. He conducted them to 
the new home which he had prepared for 
them in Danville, Pa. They continued to 
reside in Danville until March, 1867, when 
they removed to Harrisburg, the father hav- 
ing preceded them there in 1866. He was 
spared to them but a short time after their 
arrival in Harrisburg ; he died in 1867. 
The mother still survives at the advanced 
age of seventy-eight years, hale and hearty, 
and is an honored and revered resident of 
Kittanning, Armstrong county, Pa. 

From 1867 until the present date, with 
the exception of two years spent in the 
western part of this State, Henry W. Gough 
has been a continuous resident of Harris- 
burg. He received the advantages of a pub- 
lic school education. After leaving school 
he entered the company store of the Lochiel 
iron mill, and from October, 1878, until Au- 
gust, 1882, he was continuously in this em- 
ployment; first, in the capacity of clerk, 
and for the last three years as bookkeeper. 

On September 11, 1882, he entered the 
employ of D. W. Gross & Son, druggists, as 
bookkeeper in their establishment, and con- 
tinued in this position until August 16, 1893. 
For the following year he was not engaged 
in any special branch of business, but was 
employed as an expert accountant in audit- 
ing the accounts of insolvent estates. On 
August 6, 1894, he entered the employ of the 
Yingst Carpet Comjjany, and took charge of 
the financial part of this business until March 
1, 1895. On this date Mr. Gough, in con- 
nection with some other members of the 
company, purchased the business and was 
appointed managing partner. 

Henry W. Gough was married in Phila- 
delphia, August 25, 1885, to Miss Jennie L. 
Cope, daughter of John and Mary Cope, res- 
idents of Harrisburg. They had three 
children, Mary Lewis, William Bailey, and 



John Edwin. Mr. Gough is a member of 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., 
Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, and Dauphin En- 
campment, No. 10, I. 0. 0. F. He is an ac- 
tive politician in the ranks of the Republi- 
can party. He has creditably represented 
the First ward in common council for two 
terms, and is now a member of select coun- 
cil from that ward. He was twice nomi- 
nated for the office of city comptroller, but 
was defeated by W. K. Verbeke, the present 
incumbent. Mr. and Mrs. Gough are con- 
sistent members of the Market Square Pres- 
byterian church. 



Potter, Ira C, senior member of the 
firm of Potter & Co., dealers in wall paper, 
was born in Liverpool township, Perry 
county, Pa., January 1, 1866, son of Levi 
and Sarah (Bear) Potter. The father was 
born in Buffalo township, Perry county, 
September 12, 1832, son of the late Jonas 
and Barbara (Stevens) Potter. He received 
onty a limited education in the district 
schools. For fifteen years he was a driver 
on the canal, after which he engaged in 
farming. He was married, in Buffalo town- 
ship, Perry county, June 18, 1854, to Sarah 
Ann Bear, and there have been born to 
them twelve children, of whom ten are liv- 
ing: William Harrison, Alfred A., Charles 
C, Cordelia, wife of Peter Walk, Edwin S., 
Oscar R., Ira O, Alice, wife of Hellorious 
Bodner, Catherine R. and Irvin L. In his 
politics he is a Democrat, and attends the 
Lutheran church. Ira C. spent his early 
life in his native township, and attended 
the public schools. He learned the trade of 
painter and paper hanger, which he fol- 
lowed for five years. After this he engaged 
in contracting, and since 1891 has been in 
the wall paper business. He was married, 
in Harrisburg, August 13, 1892, to Elea- 
nora Roberts, daughter of George Roberts, 
and to them has been born one child, Wal- 
ter Monroe. Mr. Potter is an active member 
of Coinplanter Tribe, No. 61, I. 0. R. M., 
and of Harrisburg Council, No. 328, Jr. 0. 
U. A. M. In politics Mr. Potter is with the 
Republican party. He attends the United 
Brethren church. 



Williams, Frank E., upholsterer, was born 
at Harrisburg, March 2, 1867. He is a son 
of the late Evan and Amanda (Walborn) 
Williams. His father was a well-known and 
honored resident of Harrisburg for many 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



495 



years. He died February 28, 1884. They 
had two sons : Frank E. and Charles, both 
living in Harrisburg. The Walborn family, 
to which the mother belonged, were among 
the very early settlers of Dauphin county. 
The grandfather Walborn died at Berrys- 
burg at the advanced age of eighty-two years. 
In his youth Frank E. received the advan- 
tages of a good education in the public 
schools of the city. After leaving school he 
went to New York City, where he spent three 
years in learning the upholstering business. 
In 1892 he returned to Harrisburg, since 
which date he has been engaged in business 
in this city and has succeeded in building 
up a profitable and growing patronage. He 
was married in Harrisburg, November 3, 
1889, to Emma Shearer, daughter of William 
and Mary Shearer, of Perry county, Pa. He 
is a member of Cincinnatus Commandery, No. 
96, K. of M. He attends the Presbyterian 
church. Mr. Williams is a thorough expert 
at his business, which he conducts with 
credit to his energy and skill and with the 
utmost satisfaction to his patrons. 



Vollmer, Harry A., senior partner in the 
firm of Vollmer & Simms, upholsterers, dec- 
orators and awning manufacturers, was born 
in Harrisburg December 10, 1870. He is a 
son of Charles Y. and Catherine (Haehnlen) 
Vollmer. Charles T. Vollmer was born 
in Wurtemberg, Germany, October 12, 1825. 
He came to this country with his parents 
when but a child, and has been a resi- 
dent of Harrisburg for over forty years, 
working here at his trade of upholstering. 
During the late Rebellion he was retained as 
administration upholsterer under Governor 
Curtin. He still resides in Harrisburg. 
Catherine, his wife, is a native of Harrisburg, 
of German parentage. They had nine chil- 
dren, two of whom died in infancy ; a son, 
Christian, died aged twenty-four. The sur- 
viving children are : Edward, Mary, Frank, 
Henry A., Emma, and Theodore. 

Harry A. Vollmer was educated in the 
public schools of his native city, and after- 
wards learned upholstering, in which busi- 
ness he has been engaged up to the present 
time. In 1890 he formed with his brother, 
Frank H, a partnership under the firm name 
of F. H. Vollmer & Bro., which lasted four 
years. During 1894 Mr. Vollmer was en- 
gaged in the decorating business throughout 
this and adjoining States. January 1, 1896, 
he re-commenced business in Harrisburg, and 



on February 1, 1895, Mr. Simms became his 
partner. Both father and sons are staunch 
Democrats. They all attend Zion Lutheran 
church. Among the young business men of 
the city Mr. Vollmer holds a prominent 
place and enjoys an enviable reputation for 
enterprise and integrity. His business is 
large and extends to adjoining States. 



Simms, Edward, of the firm of Vollmer & 
Simms, upholsterers, decorators and manu- 
facturers, was born in the city of London, 
England, May 16, 1869. He is a son of 
Samuel and Rebecca Simms, both natives of 
Germany, still living, and residing in Lon- 
don, where Mr. Simms carries on the mer- 
chant tailoring business. They had a 
family of ten children, of whom eight are 
living: Joseph, the eldest, died in the dia- 
mond fields of South Africa, after a resi- 
dence there of fourteen years ; Isidore, died 
in London, at the age of sixteen. The sur- 
viving children are : Edward, Ralph, Rose, 
Estella, Alfred, engaged in the merchant 
tailoring business, in Harrisburg, Catherine, 
Leah and Harry, all residing in London, 
except Edward and Alfred. 

Edward Simms was educated in the Lon- 
don schools. There also he learned his 
trade of upholstering and decorating, and 
after learning it, carried on in the same 
city the business of upholstering and cabi- 
net making. In September, 1887, he came 
to America, locating for five months in 
New York. Since February, 1888, he has 
been a resident of Harrisburg, and in busi- 
ness on his own account. He was the first 
man to establish the decorating business in 
Harrisburg. He controls the patent right 
of the Eldrich Steam Feather Renovator, 
the only dry air process machiue made. In 
1S94 he made a visit to his parents in his 
native land. 

He is a member of Star of America Com- 
mandery, No. 113, K. of M. ; Warrior Eagle 
Tribe, No. 340, I. 0. R. M. ; Herculean 
Castle, No. 480, K. G. E. ; Harmony Com- 
mandery, No. 39, Uniformed Rank, K. P. 
Mr. Simms is well known to the citizens of 
Harrisburg as an upright business man. 
By his skill and his careful attention to 
business he has justly earned the confidence 
of the public, which he enjoys. 

Brandt, Levi, member of the Paxton 
Flour and Feed Company and superintend- 
ent of the business, was born near Church- 



496 



Bl GRA PHI GAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



town, Monroe township, Cumberland county, 
Pa., May 20, 1829. He was the son of John 
and Elizabeth (Coover) Brandt, both natives 
of Cumberland county. His paternal grand- 
father was Adam Brandt, born 1751, died 
1838, who married Eve Metzger, born 1752, 
died 1830. His mother, Elizabeth Coover, 
was granddaughter of George Coover (1740- 
1820), who descended from a German family 
named Kobar (afterwards changed to Coover), 
of Coburg, Germany. 

Levi Brandt attended country school until 
he was fifteen years of age. From 1844 to 
1849 he worked on his father's farm. From 
1849 to 1861 he was in the live stock busi- 
ness in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. From 
1862 to 1865 he was in the grain business in 
Mechanicsburg, Pa., in the firm of Brandt & 
Co., the members of the firm being David 
Brandt, James Brandt and Levi Brandt. In 
1866 he was in the grain business in Me- 
chanicsburg at the Hummel warehouse. 
From 1867 to 1872 he sold flour and grain 
for Thomas B. Bryson in the coal regions and 
in New York City. On April 1, 1872, he 
came to Harrisburg and assumed the man- 
agement of the warehouse at State and Canal 
streets for John Hoffer & Co. On April!, 
1874, he became a member of this firm. On 
January 1, 1890, this firm was succeeded by 
the Paxton Flour and Feed Company, Levi 
Brandt being the superintendent. The firm 
consists of the McCormick Estate and Levi 
Brandt. It operates the warehouse at Har- 
risburg, the grain elevator at Bridgeport, 
Cumberland county, Pa., and the Lochiel 
flour mill, Harrisburg. 

Mr. Brandt was married, November 8, 
1866, to Elmira A., daughter of Daniel and 
Christina (Memper) Bailey. Her grandfather 
was John Bailey (1769-1832) and her great- 
grandfather was Daniel Bailey, a native of 
county Monaghan, province of Ulster, Ire- 
land, who came to America and settled in 
York county, Pa. To Levi and Elmira 
Brandt were born five children : Daniel 
Bailey, John Austin, Christine B., Elizabeth 
G. and Nellie R. Mr. Brandt has never been 
a politician, in the sense of office-seeking. 
In political views he is a Republican. The 
family attend the Pine Street Presbyterian 
church, of which Mrs. Brandt is a consistent 
member. 

Mr. Brandt belonged to a family of eight 
children, of whom, besides himself, only one 
remains, namely, Susan, widow of the late 
George W. Brandt, of Cumberland county, 



Pa., who now resides at Boiling Springs. 
Successful is the word which describes Mr. 
Brandt's business career. 



Spahr, John H, senior member of the 
firm of J. H. Spahr & Bro., Harrisburg, Pa., 
was born in the southern part of York 
county, Pa., January 25, 1852. He is a son 
of John and Mary (Hoff) Spahr, both na- 
tives of York county, the former still sur- 
viving and residing at Mount Wolf, York 
county ; the latter died at Mount Wolf. 
The father has spent his whole life in his 
native county, engaged all the time in agri- 
cultural pursuits. He served his country 
nobly during the late Rebellion, being for 
nine months a private in company A, One 
Hundred and Sixty-sixth Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers. He was three times married. To 
the first marriage twelve children were born, 
of whom nine are living, namely : Henry, 
Lucy, wife of Peter Stair, Reuben, John H, 
Samuel, Mary, wife of John Herman, Will- 
iam A., a partner in the firm of J. H. Spahr 
& Bro., Louis H, Alice, wife of Charles 
Simons. To the second marriage there were 
born two children, George and Charles, both 
living. Of the third marriage there was no 
issue. 

John H. Spahr, when but six months old, 
was taken by his parents to Manchester 
township, York county ; when he was about 
eleven years old they again removed to West 
Manchester township. Two years later he 
returned by himself to Manchester township 
and resided there for about six years. His 
primary education was received in the above 
named townships. During the last six years 
of his residence in Manchester township he 
completed his education in the Millersville 
Normal School. After leaving this school 
he spent a short time in Dauphin county 
near Harrisburg, after which he went to 
Milton, Northumberland county, and re- 
sided there two years. At the expiration of 
this time he returned to the home of his 
parents at Mount Wolf, York county, and 
attended the business college of Prof. 
Leeds for six months. In 1877 he removed 
to Harrisburg, and since that date has been 
a continuous resident of this city. During 
eight years of this time he has been engaged 
in his present business. 

John H. Spahr was married at York, in 
December, 1878, to Emma J. Gross, daugh- 
ter of Samuel and Susan (Wolfe) Gross. To 
them have been born five children, one of 






DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



497 



whom died in infancy; their living children 
are Walter S., Harry M., Susie, and Grace. 

He is a member of Dauphin Lodge, No. 
160, I. 0. 0. F.; Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. 
of P.; also of Goldsmith's Division, Uniformed 
Rank, K. of P. In political views Mr. Spahr 
is Democratic. He is a consistent member 
of the Fifth Street Methodist Episcopal 
church. Mrs. Spahr belongs to the Lutheran 
church, but with her family attends the 
adopted church of her husband. 

Spahr, William A., of the firm of J. H. 
Spahr & Bro., flour and feed merchants, is a 
son of John and Mary (Hoff) Spahr. He 
was born near Mount Wolf, York county, 
January 2, 1862. His boyhood days were 
spent at Mount Wolf, and his education was 
received in the public schools of his native 
county. Later he attended the Business Col- 
lege of Toledo, Ohio. When eighteen years 
of age he became apprenticed to the flour 
milling business with his brother Henry, at 
Glen Rock, York county. He spent ten years 
at this business, and has for several j'ears 
past been engaged in the flour and feed busi- 
ness in connection with his brother, John 
H, in Harrisburg. 

He was married at Trenton, N. J., to Mar- 
garet E. Clinton, daughter of Emanuel^ and 
Susan Clinton, of Harrisburg. One son was 
born to them, who died in infancy. He is 
not connected with any secret societies at the 
date of this writing. He is Democratic in 
his political views. He and his wife attend 
the Lutheran church. 

The members of the firm of J. H. Spahr & 
Bro. are both honorable business men, and 
are highly respected in business and social 
circles for their personal worth. 



Beck, David M., proprietor of flour and 
feed warehouse and elevator, Harrisburg, 
Pa., was born in Progress, Dauphin county, 
October 26, I860. He is a sou of David and 
Susan (Whitmoyer) Beck, both natives of 
Dauphin county. His father was born in 
Lower Paxton township, January 28, 1828, 
and is a son of John Beck; he was reared a 
farmer boy, with only the limited advantages 
of education afforded by the country school. 
A large portion of his life has been spent in 
agricultural pursuits. During the past fif- 
teen years he has not been in active business. 
He was married, in Lower Paxton township, 
to Susan Whitmoyer, a daughter of Thomas 
and Catherine (Laniken) Whitmoyer, also 



natives of Dauphin county. To fhem were 
born four children, two of whom died in in- 
fancy. The living children are : Samuel E., 
residing in Reading, Pa., and David M. Mrs. 
Beck died May 6, 1882. Both the parents of 
the elder David Beck were of German an- 
cestry and farmers. They came to Dauphin 
county at a very early date and spent the 
remainder of their lives here. 

David M. Beck spent his boyhood in Pro- 
gress, and his education was received prin- 
cipally in the public schools of this village. 
He had the advantage of one term in the 
State Normal School at Millersville, Pa., and 
n Berrj'sburg Seminary. He taught school 
for six years, during which time he taught 
one term in Halifax township, one in Wayne 
township, and four terms in Susquehanna 
township. He taught three terms in the 
graded schools of Progress. He engaged 
with the firm of Forney Bros. & Co., which 
he represented as traveling salesman for 
nine years. For the last four years of this 
period he was interested also in the flour and 
feed business. In June, 1895, he built the 
large and commodious premises he now oc- 
cupies. He now gives his entire time and 
attention to the flour and feed business. 

David M. Beck was married, at Penbrook, 
November 15, 1884, to Sarah B., daughter of 
Henr} 7 J. and Lydia(Walmer) Forne}'. Four 
children have been born to them, one of 
whom died in infancy. The surviving chil- 
dren are: Lydia A., Harry F., and Charles E. 
Mr. Beck is a member of Dauphin Lodge, 
No. 250, K. of G. E. In political views he is 
a Republican. He attends the Church of 
God. Mr. Beck is well launched upon the 
tide of business and it flows rapidly toward 
success. The breath of popular favor is also 
in his sails. 



Buser, Otis S., miller, was born in Mid- 
dletown, Dauphin county, Pa., October 22, 
1S61. He is a son of John K. and Eliza- 
beth (Stoner) Buser, both natives of Dau- 
phin count}'. When but an infant, his par- 
ents removed to Highspire, where he spent 
his youth, receiving the advantages of a 
good public school education in that town. 
He learned the milling business with his 
father. After the death of his father, in 
1888, in connection with his brother, Ira, he 
carried on the business for four years. At 
the expiration of this period he withdrew 
his interest and engaged in the grocery 
business, in Harrisburg. In 1892 he also 



498 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



conducted a grocery and produce exchange 
business in the Cumberland Valley. From 
1892 to 1894 he was engaged in various 
pursuits. In 1894 he again engaged in the 
milling business, and in November, 1895, 
in the flour and feed business, in Harris- 
burg. He was married, in Upper Allen 
township, Cumberland county, October 24, 
1893, to Amy Benola Souder, daughter of 
George and Emma Souder. They have one 
son, named Guy Erastus S. Mr. Buser 
served one year as tax collector of High- 
spire. In political views he is a Prohibi- 
tionist. He attends the Church of God. 
He is a reliable and enterprising business 
man, and is highly esteemed. 



Zollinger, John Harris, deceased, was 
born on the Hannah farm, near Harrisburg, 
Pa., August 22, 1812. He was a son of the 
late George and Elizabeth (Everhart) Zoll- 
inger. His father, George Zollinger, was 
born in Harrisburg. His ancestors were 
Swiss, who came to America and settled in 
Dauphin count}'; they were among the very 
earliest settlers of Harrisburg. He was at 
one time a very large land owner. His wife, 
Elizabeth Everhart, was born in Harris- 
burg. They had seven children, three sons 
and four daughters, all deceased. 

John H. Zollinger spent his entire life in 
Harrisburg. Pie was for many years a 
hatter. He was prominently identified with 
the interests and welfare of the city. He 
died February 11, 1871. 

Mr. Zollinger was married, in Harrisburg, 
January 23, 1848, to Julia B. Fitzgerald, born 
in Lancaster, Pa., June 9, 1824, daughter of 
the late David and Catherine (Kendig) Fitz- 
gerald, by whom he had two children : 
George C, passenger conductor on the Penn- 
sylvania railroad, and Mary Frances, wife of 
William B. Moore, train master, Pennsyl- 
vania railroad. Mrs. Zollinger is still living 
and resides in Harrisburg. She and her 
family are members of Grace Methodist Epis 
copal church. 

The parents of Mrs. Zollinger were both 
born in Lancaster, Pa. Her grandfather 
Fitzgerald was born in Ireland, and came to 
America during the Revolution in Ireland. 
He settled in Lancaster, Pa., where he spent 
the greater part of his life. The Kendig 
family were of Swiss ancestry. They settled 
in Lancaster at a very early date. Some 
members of the family served in the Revo- 
lutionary army. The parents of Mrs. Zoll- 



inger had three children : Mary L., wife of 
John Kepple, cigar manufacturer of Harris- 
burg; Mrs. Zollinger; James Kildare, de- 
ceased. Mrs. Zollinger's father died from 
the effects of a fall when but twenty-six 
years of age. By a second marriage of Mrs. 
Fitzgerald, to James Williams, there was one 
child who died in infancy. By her third 
marriage, to Samuel McDonald, she had six 
children, three of whom are living: William 
K., Theodore and David B. 

George C. Zollinger, only son of John H. 
and Julia B. Zollinger, was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., June 4, 1849. He was educated 
in the Harrisburg joublic schools, and took a 
commercial course in the Business College of 
that city. After finishing his education, he 
learned plumbing but never worked at his 
trade beyond the time of his apprenticeship. 
For twenty-six years he has been in railroad 
employ, twenty-four years of that time have 
been passed in the service of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company. Mr. Zollinger 
was married in Harrisburg, December 24, 
1873, to Carrie, daughter of Andrew and 
Elizabeth Hake, of York county, Pa. Of 
their two children, one died young, the sur- 
viving one is Elizabeth Beatrice. Mr. Zoll- 
inger is an active member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M. His wife and 
daughter are members of the Forster Street 
Lutheran church. 



Derr, Anthony, deceased, was born in the 
city of Lundow, Bavaria, Germany, Novem- 
ber 9, 1814. He was reared and educated in 
his native land, and learned the trade of cabi- 
net maker. He came to America when nine 
years of age and settled at Harrisburg, where 
his life has been spent, with the exception 
of three years, during which he was a resi- 
dent of Berks county. He followed his 
trade in this city and died January 1, 1876. 
Mr. Derr was married in Harrisburg in 
September, 1844, to Catherine Berrier, daugh- 
ter of Henry J. and Margaret (Eckly) Ber- 
rier. They had eight children, of whom 
three died in childhood. Their living chil- 
dren are: Man' H, widow of the late John 
Taylor, Josephine M., Catherine W., widow 
of Martin Schriver, Laura J., wife of Hugh 
J. McClosky, and Anthony Lewis. Henry J. 
Berrier, father of Mrs. Derr, was a native of 
France. He married Margaret Eckly, a na- 
tive of Germany. They came in youth to 
this country and spent their lives in Harris- 
burg. Mrs. Berrier died September 1, 1878, 






DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



499 



aged eighty-two years. They had eight 
children, three of whom are living: Bar- 
bara, wife of George Krickbaum, of Harris- 
burg; Catherine, Mrs. Derr; aud Joseph, Har- 
risburg. Mr. Berrier was a house and bridge 
builder, and helped to build the bridge 
across the Susquehanna river. 



Hellerman, Hiram, foreman of the black- 
smith department, Middle division, Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, was born in 
Oxford township, Philadelphia county, Pa., 
March 15, 1824, son of the late Isaac and 
Sarah (Conrow) Hellerman, the former a 
native of Philadelphia county, of Moravian 
ancestry, the latter a native of New Jersey. 
The Hellerman family were of German de- 
scent, and came to America in the latter 
part of the last century, locating at Bethle- 
hem. The father was a farmer and engaged 
in other pursuits. He spent his whole life 
in Oxford township, where he died at the 
advanced age of eighty-four years, his wife 
having preceded him in death. They had 
six children, only three of whom are living : 
Hiram, Elizabeth, wife of William Nise, of 
Frankford, Pa., and John, a farmer, residing 
near Millerstown, Pa. Hiram spent his 
boyhood days in his native township, where 
he attended subscription schools. He 
learned the trade of blacksmith, at Frank- 
ford, and worked as a journeyman in Phila- 
delphia until 1853, in which year he en- 
tered the employment of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company, at Altoona, and four 
years later was transferred to Clarksburg, 
Chester county, where he remained until 
April 1, 1861, when he was removed to the 
shops at Harrisburg. He has been in the 
service of the company forty-two years, for 
thirty-eight of which he has been foreman 
of the blacksmith department. Mr. Heller- 
man was married at Philadelphia, to Mary 
M. Bosert, Their children are : Joseph I., 
a clerk for the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany ; Sallie, a teacher in the public schools 
of Harrisburg; a son who was killed by the 
bursting of a boiler on the locomotive he 
was fireman, in January, 1893, and Emery 
G., residing in Harrisburg. In politics Mr. 
Hellerman is a Republican. The family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Crane, Irvin J., was born at Liverpool, 
Perry county, Pa., February 4, 1829. His 
father, George W. Crane, was of English an- 
cestry and was born in Lycoming county, 



Pa. He removed to Perry county when 
quite a young man, and spent the greater 
portion of his life there. He was a farmer for 
some years, and subsequently was a pilot on 
the Susquehanna river. He was a justice of 
the psace of Perry county for thirty-nine 
years. In 1845 he was elected recorder, 
register and clerk of Orphans' Court of Perry 
count} 7 , and served two terms. He died at 
Jersey Shore, Lycoming county, at the resi- 
dence of his daughter, September 7, 1852, 
after a useful life, at the age of sixty-eight 
years. The mother, Jane M. Watt, was of 
Scotch-Irish ancestry; she was born in Mif- 
flin (now Juniata) count}', and died in 1854. 
They had a family of six children, of whom 
Irvin J. is the only survivor. 

He spent a part of his boyhood in his 
native place, where he received the advan- 
tages of a good common school education. 
When about seventeen years of age he re- 
moved to Bloomfield, Pa., and began his busi- 
ness career as a clerk in the county court. 
He served in this place for six years. For 
one year Mr. Crane was a teacher in the 
public schools. On January 10, 1853, he en- 
tered the service of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company. He was first a brakeman for 
thirteen months, then passenger conductor 
for seven years, then ticket agent for one 
year. In 1864 he enlisted in the Fifth Penn- 
sylvania cavalry, U. S. A., and served therein 
till the close of the war. He was honorably 
discharged and mustered out of service in 
June, 1S65, at Philadelphia, Pa. He returned 
to Harrisburg and re-entered the service of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. He 
was transferred to the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne 
& Chicago railroad, and appointed yard- 
master at Alliance, Ohio; in this position he 
remained until 1873, when he returned to 
Harrisburg and was made assistant yard- 
master of the Middle division, Pennsylvania 
railroad, and afterwards became yardmaster. 
In 1SS8 he was appointed weighmaster of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, which 
position he now holds. 

Irvin J. Crane was married in Philadel- 
phia, August 24, 1848, to Margaret R. Smith, 
daughter of Nathaniel and Rebecca Smith, 
of Phoenix ville,Chester county, Pa. They have 
ha'd four children, the sole survivor of whom is 
Mary O, wife of I. J. Davis, residing in Pitts- 
burgh, Pa. Mrs. Crane died at Harrisburg. 
Mr. Crane was married the second time at 
Harrisburg, June 14, 1857, to Laura C. Burr, 
of Perry county. To them have been born 



500 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



seven children, five of whom are living, 
namely: Scott 8., superintendent Altoona & 
Logan Valley Electric railway, at Altoona, 
Pa.; Harry G., assistant yard master, Pennsyl- 
vania railroad, at Harrisburg; Louise C, 
wife of Frank Caum, residing at Hartford, 
Conn.; Currance C, wife of John W. Caum, 
residing in Harrisburg, Pa., and Richard L., 
also a resident of Harrisburg. 

Mr. Crane is a member of Conrad Lodge, 
No. 270, F. & A. M., of Alliance, Ohio; Mt. 
Moriah Chapter, No. 166, Hollidaysburg, Pa.; 
Mountain Commandery, No. 10, K. T., 
of Altoona; Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, I. O. 
O. F.; Miriam Rebecca Lodge, No. 12, D. of 
R. In politics he ,is a staunch Democrat. 
Mr. and Mrs. Crane are members of the Cove- 
nant Presbyterian church, which the family 
attend. Mr. Crane is a man of solid char- 
acter and great personal worth, as his forty- 
three years of service in the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company attests. 

Clark, James, general agent of the Cum- 
berland Valley Railroad Company, was born 
in Middlesex township, four and a half miles 
north of Carlisle, December 25, 1829, son of 
Robert and Margaret (Smiley) Clark, the 
former a native of Cumberland county, of 
Scotch-Irish ancestry, the latter a native of 
Perry county, of English ancestry. James 
was reared to manhood in his native county 
and received his education in the public 
schools of the township. He was engaged 
in farming until 1864, when he entered the 
employment of the Cumberland Valley 
Railroad Company as collector at Bridge- 
port. Pa., from which he was transferred in 
1872 to his present position, where he has 
since been a faithful official of the company. 
Mr. Clark was married in Carlisle, Pa., De- 
cember 20, 1859, to Elizabeth Culbertson, 
daughter of Stephen Culbertson, to whom 
have been born five children, two of whom 
died in infancy. The survivors are : George 
Edward, residing at Butte, Montana ; Helen 
C. and James A., both residing with their 
parents at Harrisburg. Mrs. Clark died at 
her residence in Harrisburg, February 21, 
1893. In his political views Mr. Clark is a 
Republican. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the Pine Street Presbyterian church. 

McFadden, William C, baggage agent of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, was 
born at Lebanon, Pa., March 31, 1830. He 
is a son of Marcus and Eleanor (Gallagher) 



McFadden, both natives of county of Done- 
gal, Ireland. He removed from his native 
place with his parents to Elizabethtown 
and lived there one year. Thence he re- 
moved to Bridgeport, Cumberland county, 
and lived there two years, and from there 
to Harrisburg, where he has since lived. 
He was educated in the public schools of 
Harrisburg. He was employed at the prin- 
ter's trade for several years, and afterwards 
learned the baking business, at which he 
worked about four years, and then resumed 
the printing business. In the early part of 
1851 he entered the service of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company as brakeman, and 
at the end of four years was appointed bag- 
gage master, which position he has held for 
forty years with the utmost satisfaction to 
the company and the traveling public. He 
was first lieutenant of battery A, First Penn- 
sylvania artillery (emergency men). He 
was married in Philadelphia to Catherine 
McGrath, daughter of Francis and Catherine 
(O'Treil) McGrath. Of the nine children 
born to them four are living: Mary B., 
madame of Convent of Sacred Heart, at 
Manhattan, N. Y.; Frances Julia, wife of 
George T. Kelley, of Albany, N. Y.; Jose- 
phine, Rose and Monia. Mr. McFadden rep- 
resented the Sixth ward in common coun- 
cil for six years, and was also alderman for 
same ward for six years. He represented 
the Fourth ward in council for one year. 
In political principles he is a Democrat. 
Thefamily attend the Roman Catholic cathe- 
dral. 



Miller, John Edmund, foreman of No. 2 
round house, Philadelphia division, Penn- 
sylvania railroad, was born at Waynesburg, 
now called Honey Brook Station, of Delaware, 
Lackawanna and Western railroad, in Chester 
county, April 9, 1831. He is a son of Peter 
and Elizabeth (Evans) Miller, the former a 
native of Scotland, the latter of England, 
both of whom came to America when quite 
young. His parents died when John E. was 
but eighteen months old. He was reared by 
his uncle, Adam Miller, of New Holland, 
Lancaster county, Pa., where he spent his 
boyhood, receiving a common school educa- 
tion. When fifteen years of age he was ap- 
prenticed to the millwright trade and worked 
at this trade for seven years. Beginning 
with the year 1852 he was employed for five 
years on the State road between Columbia 
and Philadelphia, four years as fireman and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



501 



one year as engineer. In 1856 he was pro- 
moted to engineer of passenger train, hold- 
ing this position until 1881. On June 1, 
1881, he was appointed to his present posi- 
tion. His good character and excellent qual- 
ities are abundantly attested by the fact that 
he has been for thirty-nine years continu- 
ously employed by the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Companjr. He is still in the same em- 
ploy. 

John E. Miller was married at Lancaster, 
Pa., October 10, 1861, to Sarah M., daughter 
of Samuel and Sarah Mathiot. They have 
two children: Alfred O, born August 12, 

1862, and George W., born December 17, 
1867. In political views Mr. Miller is a 
Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Miller and their 
sons are members of Ridge Avenue Methodist 
church. Mr. Miller is a member of Colum- 
bia Lodge, No. 286, F. & A. M. Mr. Miller 
was the engineer of the train which carried 
the bodv of Abraham Lincoln from Harris- 
burg, April 22, 1865. 

Kinter, George, trainmaster of the Penn- 
sylvania railroad, was born in Susquehanna 
township, near Harrisburg, May 1, 1831. 
He is the only surviving child of the four 
born to his parents, George and Elizabeth 
(Miller) Kinter, both natives and honored 
residents of Dauphin county. His father 
was engaged in agricultural pursuits in Sus- 
quehanna township up to 1846, and from 
that date until his death, which occurred in . 

1863, he was engaged in merchandising. 
George Kinter received his education in 

the public schools of his native township, 
and was engaged in farming and in boating 
on the canal. On October 2, 1855, he en- 
tered the service of the Pennsylvania rail- 
road as a freight brakeman on the division 
running from Mifflin to Columbia, and con- 
tinued in the service as brakeman, flagman 
and conductor until October 2, 1862, when 
he was transferred to the superintendent's 
office as night yardmaster and assistant 
trainmaster and train dispatcher. He served 
as such till January 1, 1874, when he was 
appointed trainmaster of the division run- 
ning from Harrisburg to Altoona, in which 
position he has rendered satisfactory service 
to the company for over twenty years, and 
which he still holds. He has completed 
forty years of continuous service in the em- 
ploy of this company, which is a demonstra- 
tion of his ability, trustworthiness and good 
character. 



He was married in Union county, Pa., 
April 3, 1856, to Caroline, daughter of Henry 
and Catharine Charles, of Union county, Pa. 
Of their five children four are living: Charles 
Henry, S. Wilt, George Hutchison, and John 
Carroll. Mary W. died in infancy. Mr. 
Kinter is a member of Phoenix Lodge, No. 
59, K. of P. He, his wife and children are 
members of Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Fosnaught, John R., assistant yardmaster 
of the Middle division, Pennsylvania rail- 
road, was born in Southampton township, 
Franklin county, Pa., February 13, 1833. 
He is a son of Conrad and Catherine (Jacoby) 
Fosnaught, both natives of Southampton 
township. His education was begun in the 
public schools of his native township, but 
when ten years old he removed with his 
father to Shippensburg, Pa., where his edu- 
cation was finished. He was engaged in 
farming for five years, at the expiration of 
which time he began his career in railroad- 
ing. He was agent on individual cars for 
seven years. From 1858 to 1861 he was 
again engaged in agricultural pursuits in 
Southampton township, Cumberland county. 
In August, 1861, he enlisted in company H, 
Third Pennsylvania cavalry, and served 
three years in the army. During this time 
he participated in the battles of Malvern 
Hill, Gettysburg, and many other important 
engagements. Having served the term of 
his enlistment, he was honorably discharged 
and mustered out of service August 28, 1864, 
at Philadelphia, when he returned to Ship- 
pensburg. On October 4, 1864, he removed 
to Harrisburg and engaged with the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company as brakeman. 
He followed this occupation for six months, 
when he was promoted to the position of 
conductor and acceptably performed his 
duties in this capacity for twenty years. In 
October, 1884, he was appointed to his pres- 
ent position. 

Mr. Fosnaught was married at Moline, Rock 
Island county. 111., December 6, 1855, to 
Charlotte S. Rhode, daughter of Benjamin 
and Lydia (Hoffman) Rhode. Of their six 
children three died in childhood. The liv- 
ing children are : Ida, widow of the late 
Harvey Stevick, Louisa, wife of Daniel Stone- 
seifer, and Gertrude. Mr. Fosnaught is a 
member of the Order of Railway Conductors. 
In political views he is a Democrat. The 



502 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



family attend the Church of God. He is a 
public-spirited citizen, of long residence and 
long service to the community. His char- 
acter is without blemish, and he is highly 
esteemed for his personal worth. 



Williams, Robert E., assistant trainmas- 
ter, Philadelphia division, Pennsylvania 
railroad, was born at Utica, N. Y., March 
29, 1833. He is a son of William and Elea- 
nor (Pool) Williams, both natives of Bala, 
Wales. He was reared at Utica and edu- 
cated in the public schools of that city. He 
learned telegraphy, and followed this occu- 
pation in Utica until he was eighteen years 
of age. ' He removed to New York City and 
was engaged in the business of manufactur- 
ing gold pen and pencil cases until 1856, 
when he entered the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company as tele- 
graph operator at Lewistown, Pa. He re- 
mained in that position for sixteen months, 
and was then transferred to the same posi- 
tion at Mifflin, Pa., which he held for two 
years. Leaving the telegraph service for 
one year he took the place of locomotive 
fireman between Mifflin and Columbia. Re- 
turning to his original occupation he was 
transferred to Harrisburg and took charge 
of the line between Lancaster and Mifflin 
until 1861. On the breaking out of the war 
he answered the call of the Government for 
telegraph builders, and went to Washington 
and followed the army for eight months, 
building telegraph lines for the Government 
wherever they were heeded. At the expira- 
tion of this time he removed to Philadel- 
phia and resumed the position of telegraph 
operator with the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, which he held till 1864, when he 
was appointed train dispatcher at the same 
point. In 1865 he was appointed assistant 
trainmaster at Harrisburg. He has filled 
this position for thirty years at Harrisburg, 
Philadelphia and Columbia. He has served 
thirty-nine years in the employ of the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company. 
" He was married at Philadelphia, Septem- 
ber 30, 1885, to Minnie Bowers, daughter of 
Amos and Sarah Bowers, of Columbia. 
They have two children : George E., born 
April 25, 1887, and Ruth E., born Novem- 
ber 30, 1892. He is a member of Phoenix 
Lodge, No. 130, F. & A. M., of Philadelphia. 
The family attend the Reformed church. 



Caum, Edward L., master mechanic of 
Harrisburg machine shop, Middle division, 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, was born 
at Camden, N. J., December 3, 1833. He is 
a son of James and Lydia (Lacy) Caum, 
natives of the State of New Jersey. He grew 
to manhood in his native town, passed 
through the public schools and served an 
apprenticeship with what is now the Dia- 
logue Steam Engine and Shipbuilding Com- 
pany. He also spent one year in the employ- 
ment of the Harlan and Hollingsworth En- 
gine Company, of Wilmington, Del. Mr. 
Caum entered the service of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company at Mifflin, Pa., as jour- 
neyman machinist, June 23, 1856, and was 
appointed master mechanic of the Mifflin 
shops in April, 1864. He was transferred to 
Harrisburg in November, 1869, and has been 
permanently located here since that date. 

Mr. Caum was married at Mifflin, Pa., 
February 14, 1861, to Ellen S. Wright, daugh- 
ter of John and Elizabeth Wright, of Mifflin. 
They had ten children, of whom three are 
living: Frank, chief engineer of the Electric 
railroad, of Hartford, Conn. ; John W., and 
Edward L., Jr., both of whom reside in Har- 
risburg. Mrs. Caum died April 21, 1885. 



Wells. James B., road foreman of engines, 
Pennsylvania railroad, was born in Chester 
county, Pa., June 11, 1834. His father, 
Lewis Wells, was a native of Chester county, 
and his mother, Sarah (Elmer) Wells, was a 
native of Boston, Mass. Both died in Ches- 
ter county at advanced ages, after active and 
well-spent lives. The education of James 
B. Wells was received in the common 
schools of his native county, and, to use his 
own language, it was not of an extensive 
character. There were no standard text- 
books at that time; each scholar used such 
books as the home library afforded. The 
Bible, the History of the United States, by 
different authors, the Book of Martyrs, 
Cortez' Invasion of Mexico, the Pirates' 
Own Book, the History of Captain Kidd — in 
fact, anything and everything available in 
the form of literature furnished the reading 
matter. The first work at which he sought 
employment and pay was as water boy to 
the harvest hands on neighboring farms. 
He afterwards worked at home with his 
father at the carpenter trade, and also some- 
times in Philadelphia. When a boy, in 
Chester county, he spent his leisure among 




5 







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^f' /3 < &rvirG&*~- 




<£t^a^o/c£* 



6U± 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



505 



the old State Road locomotives, for which 
he had a great liking. All he needed in the 
way of passes on the road was " to help 
wood up." The knowledge he was enabled 
to pick up in this way was valuable to him 
when he came to make railroading his busi- 
ness. In 1853 he entered the service of the 
Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore 
railroad as a fireman, and in October, 1854, 
was promoted to engineer. January 1, 1857, 
he resigned this place, and went to the 
Delaware, Lackawanna and Western rail- 
road, in the latter part of March, 1857. On 
the 14th of April, 1857, Mr. Enoch Lewis, 
second assistant superintendent, in charge of 
the Middle and Mountain division, gave him 
a position as engineer in the shop, and on 
July 7, following, he was given a freight en- 
gine to run between Altoona and Mifflin. 
On March 4, 1861, he commenced running 
a freight train between Altoona and Harris- 
burg. On April 5, 1861, he was appointed 
extra passenger engineer for both Middle 
and Philadelphia divisions, with headquar- 
ters at Harrisburg. At that time the Cum- 
berland Valley railroad had not engines 
heavy enough to haul a regiment of soldiers, 
so he and his engine were engaged to con- 
vey the three months' volunteers to Camp 
Siifer, at Chambersburg, and later, from 
that place to Hagerstown. In September, 
1861, he was given a passenger train, the 
Philadelphia Express, and continued in 
charge of it until February 2, 1862, when 
he was appointed road foreman of engines. 
In June, 1863, after all the shop machinery 
and engines under repairs were hauled to a 
place of safety, Mr. Wells enlisted in the 
Twentieth Pennsylvania cavalry, and in 
August of that year he was detailed for 
railroad service, and ordered to report to 
Enoch Lewis, as road foreman. In August, 
1864, he re-enlisted in the Two Hundred and 
First Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
mustered out of service June 1, 1865. He at 
once resumed his place of road foreman, 
and has well performed its duties to this 
time. 

He was married at Wilmington, Del., April 
2, 1856, to Lucinda Vandever, daughter of 
John and Sarah (Chambers) Vandever. 
The Chambers family were among the very 
earliest settlers of this country, their ances- 
tors having come over with William Penn. 
Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Wells, of whom five sons still survive, 
namely : William S., a machinist, residing 
35 



at Ft. Wayne, Ind. ; John V., a machinist, 
residing at Wilmerding, Pa.; James A., a 
locomotive engineer, on the Schuylkill Val- 
ley division, Pennsylvania railroad ; Henry 
O, foreman in the machine shops, at Mifflin, 
Pa., and Edward O, a civil engineer. Mrs. 
Wells died October 14, 1893. Mr. Wells is a 
member of Mountain Lodge, No. 281, F. & 
A. M., of Altoona. He attends the Lutheran 
church. 



Rumpf, Charles O, foreman of machine 
shops, Middle division, Pennsylvania rail- 
road, was born in Prussia, January 11, 1836, 
his parents both being natives of Prussia. 
Charles C. and a sister named Minnie, wife 
of Henry Aman, residing near Chillicothe, 
Ohio, were their only children. The father 
died at Chillicothe, the mother died in her 
native land when Charles was an infant. 
The father married again in Prussia. When 
six years old Charles C. Rumpf came to 
America with his father and step-mother 
and located in Chillicothe, Ohio. Here he 
spent his youth, receiving an education in 
the public schools of the city. After com- 
pleting his education he acted for two years 
as interpreter to the civil engineer who sur- 
veyed the Cincinnati and Marietta railroad, 
who was a German. For three years 
longer he was in the same service as assist- 
ant to the engineer corps. When this road 
was completed he was appointed baggage- 
master, and served in this position for six 
months. He also served one year as fireman, 
was then appointed engineer, and ran a yard 
engine for six months. At the end of this 
time he entered the machine shops of the 
Cincinnati and Marietta railroad at Chilli- 
cothe, where he learned the machinist busi- 
ness. In 1861 he removed to Litchfield, 111., 
and became foreman of the roundhouse of 
the Terre Haute and St. Louis railroad at 
that place. In the latter part of the same 
year Mr. Rumpf removed to Altoona, Pa., 
where he took charge of the erecting shops 
of the Pennsylvania railroad for five 
months. In the spring of 1862 he was trans- 
ferred to Harrisburg as foreman of round- 
house No. 1, and filled this position until 
1868, when he was appointed foreman of the 
machine and erecting shops, the position he 
now so acceptably fills. 

Charles C. Rumpf has been twice married; 
first, at Chillicothe, Ohio, to Teressa Studer, 
who died in Harrisburg in 1865, and by 
whom he had four children, three of whom 



506 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



are living, namely : Annie, wife of Andrew 
Schutzenbach ; Charles, and Lena, wife of 
Abraham Taylor, residing in Hummelstown, 
Pa. He was married the second time in 
Harrisburg to Louisa Studer, a sister of his 
first wife. They had three children, one of 
whom died in infancy: Joseph and Mary, 
twins, are living. In 1863 he enlisted in 
company E, Two Hundred and First Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, and served for three 
months, at the end of which time he was 
discharged by substitution at Scranton, Pa., 
and returned to the employment of the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, at Harrisburg. 
For a third of a century he has been con- 
tinuously in the service of this company, 
which demonstrates the fact that he has the 
"staying" qualities of industry, skill and 
fidelity. The family attend St. Lawrence 
Roman Catholic church. 



Reed, Reuben S., foreman of car inspec- 
tors and wreckmaster of Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, was born in Lower Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., January 12, 
1836. His father, Robert Reed, was of English 
ancestry, and was born in Lebanon county. 
His grandfather, John Reed, was a Revolu- 
tionary soldier. The greater part of his 
father's life was spent in Dauphin county, 
and in working at his trade, which was that 
of blacksmith. He died April 30, 1876, at 
the age of seventy-seven years. His mother, 
Harriet Reisenpott, was of German extrac- 
tion, was born in Lebanon county, and died 
in 1872. Their family consisted of twelve 
children, nine of whom are living: Louisa, 
wife of Abraham Attics, residing at Steelton ; 
Samuel, a German Baptist minister, residing 
in Lower Paxton township; Reuben S.; John, 
a blacksmith, residing near Rutherford Sta- 
tion, in Swatara township ; Rebecca, wife of 
John Hoke, residing in Lower Paxton ; 
Thomas W., residing in Susquehanna town- 
ship ; Matilda, wife of Jacob Zearfoss, resid- 
ing in Union Deposit, Dauphin county ; 
Robert G., residing in Lower Paxton, and 
Martin L., residing in Hornerstown, Dau- 
phin county. 

Reuben S. Reed was educated in the dis- 
trict school, and first learned the blacksmith 
trade in his father's shop. Not liking the 
trade, he abandoned it and tried milling 
for a time, but finally learned carpentry. 
He worked at his trade for six years, work- 
ing in the summer and teaching school in 
the winter. He taught four years in East 



Hanover township, and two winters in Mid- 
dle Paxton township. In 1863 he entered 
the service of the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company as a car builder, and pursued this 
occupation for one year. In July, 1864, he 
enlisted in company D, One Hundred and 
First Pennsylvania volunteers, and was ap- 
pointed first lieutenant. He served one 
year, and mustered out of the service at 
Newburn, N. C, and honorably discharged 
at Harrisburg, Pa., in July, 1865, on ac- 
count of the ending of the war. He re- 
turned to his former position as car builder, 
which he held till 1877; in this year he was 
appointed chief car inspector in the Harris- 
burg yards. Mr. Reed is an old and faithful 
employee of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany, and a gentlemen highly esteemed in 
business and social circles for his many 
good qualities. 

He was married at East Hanover, August 
6, 1857, to Mary A. Martz, daughter of Will- 
iam and Madeline (Penabaker) Martz, old 
settlers of East Hanover township. Three 
children have been born to them : Emma 
H, died at the age of sixteen years ; Benja- 
min, employed by the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, and Mary M., died at the 
age of eight years. Mr. Reed has repre- 
sented the Seventh ward in the common 
council one term. He is a member of 
Harrisburg Lodge, No. 68, 1. 0. 0. F., and of 
Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. of P. He is a 
Democrat. The family attend the Lutheran 
church. 



Daugherty, Hamlet, foreman of round- 
house No. 1, Middle division, Pennsylvania 
railroad, was born at Milton, Northumber- 
land county, Pa., September 20, 1836. His 
father, Daniel Daugherty, was of Irish an- 
cestry, and was born in Dauphin county. 
In youth he learned the trade of weaving 
and dyeing, but a larger part of his life was 
spent in agricultural pursuits at Hummels- 
town, wliere he was a prominent and pros- 
perous man, universally respected. His wife, 
Nancy (Dellevan) Daugherty, was of French 
ancestry, and was born in Bucks county, 
Pa. Of the four children born to them, two 
are living, namely : Hamlet and ±Margaret, 
wife of James Foster, residing at Huntington, 
W. Va. 

. When Hamlet Daugherty was three years 
old, his parents went to Michigan, were 
located at Schoolcraft for about four years, 
and then they returned to Milton, Northum- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



507 



berland county, Pa. Here his boyhood 
was spent and here he received his educa- 
tion in the comnion schools of the county. 
He was apprenticed to the machinist trade 
and worked at it for three years. In the 
winter of 1855 he entered the employ of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a ma- 
chinist, and worked about eighteen months. 
He then went to Savannah, Ga., entered the 
employ of the Georgia Central railroad, and 
continued for eight months; then returned 
to Harrisburg and re-entered the service of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. In 
1867 he was appointed assistant foreman of 
the roundhouse, at Philadelphia, where he 
remained until 1869. He was then appointed 
foreman of roundhouse No. 2, at Harrisburg; 
during the same year he was appointed 
to his present position, which he holds with 
growing satisfaction to his employers. 

Hamlet Daugherty was married at Har- 
risburg, September 7, 1857, to Emma 
Hoover, daughter of Samuel and Sarah 
Hoover, of Harrisburg. Four of their five 
children are living : Alberta, Frank H, 
Harry L. and Mary E. In political views 
Mr. Daugherty is inclined to be Democratic. 
The family attend the Episcopal church. 

Wallace, Thomas L., was born in Clear- 
field county, Pa., September 8, 1837. His 
father, Robert Wallace, was born in Ireland, 
but came to America when he was nineteen 
years of age. He located first at Hunting- 
don, Pa., and somewhat later removed to 
Clearfield, thence to Hollidaysburg, subse- 
quently returning to Clearfield, where he 
spent the remainder of his life. His wife, 
Jane (Hemphill) Wallace, was a native of 
Huntingdon, Pa., and died at Clearfield. 
They had ten children, five of whom, besides 
Thomas L., are living: W. A., ex-United 
States senator; Sarah M., wife of George W. 
Saunders, of Perry, Oklahoma; Samuel H, 
ticket agent, Pennsylvania railroad, Broad 
street, Philadelphia; Rebecca, wife of S.J. M. 
McCarrell, senator of Dauphin district ; 
Jane, wife of C. G. Cadwallader, chief clerk 
in ticket office, Pennsylvania railroad, 
Broad street, Philadelphia. 

Thomas L. Wallace, when but a youth, re- 
moved with his parents to Hollidaysburg. 
Here he attended the public schools and 
academy. He also had the advantage of a 
year's tuition in the academy of Clearfield. 
After leaving school he was employed as 
salesman in a general store until August, 



1857, when he entered the service of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a clerk 
in the Hollidaysburg agency, where he re- 
mained for two years. In 1859 he was 
transferred to Harrisburg and appointed a 
clerk in the freight department. In Octo- 
ber of the same year he was appointed 
freight agent of the Pennsylvania, Northern 
Central and Union Line railroads, which 
position he now acceptably holds. 

Mr. Wallace was married at Harrisburg, 
October 11, 1862, to Miss Annie M, Wallace, 
daughter of William Q. and Eleanor Wal- 
lace. Of their seven children one died in 
infancy. Their living children : Helen B.; 
Annie L., wife of D. C. McLean, of Harris- 
burg; Robert B., of the Harrisburg bar; 
William T., of the freight department, Penn- 
sylvania railroad; Emily McCoy and Elea- 
nor W. 

Mr. Wallace served one term as auditor 
of Hollidaysburg when he was but twenty- 
one years of age. In political views he is a 
Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. Wallace are mem- 
bers of the Pine Street Presbyterian church, 
and Mr. Wallace is one of the trustees of the 
church. He has also been chairman of the 
Executive Committee of the Young Men's 
Christian Association for ten years. His 
long retention in its employment by the cor- 
poration he serves is the clearest and most 
unquestioned acknowledgment of his ability 
and integrity, and he enjoys a reputation 
won only by those who are guided by the 
principles of righteousness. 



Hepford, Samuel, was born in Lower 
Swatara township, Dauphin countv, Pa., 
September 27, 1837. He is a son of" David 
and Susan (Lingle) Hepford, both natives of 
Dauphin county, and both residents of the 
county all their lives. His father was a 
blacksmith by trade, but the larger part of 
his life was spent in agricultural pursuits. 
He was a man who stood high in his com- 
munity, and died in Susquehanna township 
in 18S2. His worthy wife, the mother of 
Samuel, still survives him at the advanced 
age of eighty-one years. The parents had 
born to them a family of ten children, seven 
of whom are still living, namely : Samuel, 
David, of Harrisburg, George, a prominent 
farmer, Enos, Thomas, all residing in. Sus- 
quehanna township, Susan, widow of the late 
William Unger, of Harrisburg, Sally, wife of 
Luther Lunker, of Lower Paxton. 

Samuel, when about four years old, removed 



508 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



with his parents to Susquehanna township 
and there received his education in the pub- 
lic schools. He was apprenticed to the car- 
penter trade and followed this business for 
five years. In 1861 he entered the services 
of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. Mid- 
dle division, as freight brakeman, filling this 
place for only a short time. He returned to 
his trade of carpenter. In 1864 he accepted 
a position in the motive power department 
of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as 
fireman. In the same year he enlisted in 
company E, Two Hundred and First regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and served 
until the close of the war. He was mustered 
out of service June, 1865, at Harrisburg and 
took his old position with the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company, which he filled for six 
years. In 1870 he was promoted to engineer 
of freight trains, and in "1882 to engineer of 
passenger trains. He is one of the oldest 
engineers in the service of the company. 
He was married in Harrisburg, September 27, 
1859, to Matilda Pottinger, daughter of Jacob 
L. and Elizabeth Pottinger, of Lower Paxton 
township. To them have been born ten 
children, two of whom died in infancy. 
Their living children are: Sadie M., wife of 
Leonard Sparver, of Harrisburg; Carrie B., 
wife of Samuel C. Loomis, of Harrisburg ; 
Mazie S., wife of William H. Elliott, residing 
in Philadelphia ; Josephine E., wife of H. A. 
Snyder, residing in Seattle, Wash.; Grace P., 
Charles W., Samuel Garfield and John E., 
residing in Harrisburg. In political views 
Mr. Hepford is a Republican. The family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Whitmoyer, Simon, yardmaster, Middle 
division, Harrisburg DE yard, Pennsylvania 
railroad, was born January 7, 1838, on the 
old General Foster farm in Susquehanna 
township, about two miles from Harrisburg, 
and is a son of Thomas and Catherine (Lan- 
nigan) Whitmoyer, who were prosperous 
farmers of that township. Their family con- 
sisted of eleven children, only three of 
whom are now living : Jacob, a retired 
farmer of Lower Paxton township; David, 
a grain dealer in Vilasca, Iowa ; and Simon. 
The last named was brought up on the farm 
and attended the district school of the town- 
ship. He continued at farming till 1866, 
when he entered the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company as brake- 
man. After having served as flagman and 
subsequently as conductor for about ten 



years, he was appointed assistant yard- 
master, and in April, 1895, was appointed to 
his present position. 

He was married, in Swatara township, to 
Sarah Brightbill, daughter of William Bright- 
bill. There was born to them a family of 
seven boys, two of whom died in infancy. 
The living children are William G., pas- 
senger brakeman, Pennsylvania railroad ; 
Franklin S., passenger brakeman, Pennsyl- 
vania railroad ; Harry E., fireman on pas- 
senger train, Philadelphia division, Penn- 
sylvania railroad; John C, an electrician in 
the Westinghonse Electrical Works, at Pitts- 
burgh, a graduate of Harrisburg high school 
and Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pa.; 
Howard B., residing at home. Mr. Whit- 
moyer is a member of the A. 0. U. W.; 
Malta Encampment, No. 106, K. of M. and St. 
J.; and of Relief Department, Pennsylvania 
railroad. In political views he is a staunch 
Republican. The family attend the Memor- 
ial United Brethren church. 



Muench, Isaac S., ex-chief clerk of freight 
department, Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany, was born in Halifax township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., December 7, 1839, son of 
Daniel A. and Lydia S. (Smith) Muench, the 
former a native of Berks county, the latter 
of Lancaster county, an early settler of Dau- 
phin county. The parents resided in Har- 
risburg from 1854 until death. The father 
died March 29, 1893. The father was for 
many years in the forwarding business. 
Isaac S. spent his boyhood in Halifax and 
attended the public school there until he was 
sixteen years of age, when he came with his 
parents to Harrisburg, where his education 
was completed, and he learned the trade of 
machinist. He followed this occupation 
until 1862 when he entered the United States 
navy as an engineer, and served in the gulf 
squadron under Admiral Farrigut, and in 
the West India squadron under Admiral 
Larder until the fall of 1864 when he re- 
signed from the navy and returned to Har- 
risburg. In the spring of 1865 he entered 
the freight department of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company, and in 1868 was pro- 
moted to chief clerk. 

Mr. Muench was married at Harrisburg, 
October 22, 1867, to Adelaide E. Stroh, 
daughter of Benjamin and Piiscilla Stroh, of 
Harrisburg. Of their two children, one died 
in childhood, and Elizabeth A. is attending 
school at Utica, N. Y. Mr. Muench is a 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



509 



member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. 
& A. M. In his politics he is a Republican. 
He attends Zion Lutheran church. 



Chandler, George P. x assistant baggage 
agent, Pennsylvania Railroad Company, was 
born at Harrisburg, September 13, 1841. 
He is a son of Jonathan and Julia (Mowery) 
Chandler. He was educated in the public 
schools and learned the trade of printer. In 
1862 he enlisted in company A, One Hun- 
dred and Twenty-seventh regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, under Col. W. W. Jen- 
nings. He served for nine months, during 
which time he participated in several engage- 
ments. He was mustered out of service in 
May, 1863, at Harrisburg. He returned to 
the printing business and continued at it 
until January 22, 1866, when he abandoned 
his trade and accepted the position of assist- 
ant baggagemaster of Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, which he has filled with satisfac- 
tion to his employers for thirty years. He 
was married in Harrisburg, May 24*1862, to 
Hannah M. Crawl, daughter of Samuel and 
Eliza Crawl, of Harrisburg. They have had 
six children, only two of whom are living, 
namely : William R. and Julia, both resid- 
ing at Harrisburg. Mrs. Chandler died 
March 27, 1895. Mr. Chandler is a charter 
member of Peace and Plenty Lodge, No. 69, 
I. 0. 0. F.; a charter member of Capital City 
Castle, No. 40, K. of G. E.; a member of 
Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. of P.; and a mem- 
ber of Harrisburg Castle, No. 70, K. of M. C. 
He has been both select and supreme com- 
mander, and is past supreme commander 
of this organization. In politics he is a 
Democrat. He attends the Methodist Epis- 
copal church. 

Kulp, James C, storekeeper of Harris- 
burg shops, Middle division, Pennsylvania 
railroad, was born in Lewistown, Mifflin 
county, Pa., July 13, 1844. He is a son of 
George M. and Jane E. (Crawford) Kulp, 
both natives of Mifflin county. When six 
years old, he removed with his parents to 
Patterson, Juniata county, where he spent 
his boyhood days, receiving his primary 
education in the public schools. He at- 
tended theTuscarora Academy, at Academia, 
Pa., and the Academy of Shade Gap, Hunt- 
ingdon county. Completing his education 
in 1863, he enlisted in company K, One 
Hundred and Ninety-seventh regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and served for one 



hundred days. He was mustered out of 
service at Philadelphia, at the expiration of 
his term of enlistment, and returned to 
Mifflin, and read medicine with Drs. Craw- 
ford and Light for several years ; he also at- 
tended the medical department of the Uni- 
versity of New York. During 1867-68 he 
was engaged in the practice of his profes- 
sion, at Marysville, Perry county, Pa. In 
the latter part of 1868 he retired from the 
practice of medicine, and in 1869 he entered 
the employment of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, at Mifflin, under Supervisor 
James McKnight, and remained in this posi- 
tion until August. 1870, when he was trans- 
ferred to Harrisburg and appointed assistant 
storekeeper of the Middle division. In 1883 
he was appointed storekeeper. He has been 
twice married ; first at Waynesville, in 1868, 
to Mary E. Morrison, who died in Harris- 
burg in 1877, leaving no children. He was 
married the second time, in 1883, to Sarah 
R. Meredith, daughter of Israel and Cath- 
erine Meredith, of Harrisburg. To this 
marriage have been born five children : Al- 
fred Cleveland, Catherine Caum, George 
Mark, Helen Meredith and Nancy Isabella. 
In political views Mr. Kulp is a Republican. 
The family attend the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Moorehouse, George H, assistant super- 
intendent of Western division, Pennsylvania 
department, Adams Express Company, was 
born in Hollidaysburg, Pa., August 11,1814. 
He attended the public schools until he was 
thirteen years of age, and in 1857 entered the 
service of the Adams Express Company as 
clerk under Joseph Bingham at Hollidays- 
burg, where he continued until 1862, at 
which time he came to Harrisburg and took 
the position of local clerk of the office. After 
two years' service in this position he was 
promoted, in 1872, to route agent, taking 
charge of the lines leading north, south, east 
and west, and in 1880 was made general 
route agent of the entire system. In 1887 
he was promoted to his present position of 
assistant superintendent, in charge of the 
lines west of Harrisburg, west of Pittsburgh, 
Erie, Canandaigua, N. Y, and of the Western 
department of the Pennsylvania division, 
West Virginia, New York, Maryland and 
Pennsylvania. Mr. Moorehouse is one of the 
organizers and directors of the South Harris- 
burg Chain Works. In politics he is a Re- 
publican. He is prominent in fraternity 



510 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



circles, holding membership in the Masonic 
and Knights Templar orders and being a 
charter member of Knights of Pythias of 
Harrisburg. Mr. Moorehouse was married, 
in 1873, to Miss Margaret L. Simons, daugh- 
ter of Joseph Simons, of Philadelphia. They 
have no children. Mr. and Mrs. Moorehouse 
are members of the Episcopal church. 



George P., who is living. Mr. Drake is a 
member of Mt. Lebanon Lodge, No 226, F. 
& A. M. He is also a member of Camp No. 
43, Union Veteran Legion. In politics he 
is a Republican. The family attend the Lu- 
theran church. 



Heister, William A., son of A. 0. Heister, 
was born September 29, 1845, at " Estherton " 
(the old homestead). He was educated at 
St. Paul's School, Concord, N. H., and at 
Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa. He was in 
the subsistence department of the Army of 
the Potomac from 1862 to 1865, and on sur- 
veys of the western rivers from 1865 to 1868 ; 
was there employed as assistant engineer on 
the construction of various railroads until 
1886, when he was appointed roadmaster of 
the Buffalo division of the Erie railroad and 
held that position until the spring of 1896, 
when he resigned and moved to Harrisburg. 
He was married in 1870 to Elizabeth R., 
daughter of the late William Stephens, and 
they have three children, one son and two 
daughters. 



Drake, Henry, foreman of roundhouse, 
Philadelphia and Reading railroad, was 
born at Bristol, N. H., May 3, 1846. He is 
a son of Philip S. and Harriet (Locke) 
Drake, both natives and residents of New 
1 Hampshire. He was educated in the public 
schools of his native town. In 1862, when not 
quite sixteen years of age, he enlisted in com- 
pany C, Twelfth New Hampshire volunteer 
infantry, and served until the close of the 
war of the Rebellion in 1865. He was mus- 
tered out of the service at Richmond, Va., 
and finally discharged at Concord, N. H. 
He returned to Bristol, and in September, 
1865, entered the employment of the North- 
ern New Hampshire railroad (now a part of 
the Boston and Maine system), as a fireman, 
and served as such about four years, after 
which he entered the service of the Lake 
Shore and Michigan Southern railroad as 
engineer. He filled this position until April, 
1877, when he entered the service of the 
Reading railroad as passenger engineer, and 
in October, 1891, was appointed to his pres- 
ent position. He was married at Reading, 
Pa., in October, 1877, to Catherine Colt- 
rider, daughter of Samuel Coltrider, natives 
of Maryland. To them have been born two 
children, one who died in infancy, and 



Johnston, Andrew P. W., assistant to the 
assistant engineer of the Middle division, 
Pennsylvania railroad, was born in Venango 
county, Pa., October 14, 1847. His grand- 
father, Rev. John Johnston, was of Scotch- 
Irish descent, and' came from Belfast, Ire- 
land, when a young man ; was pastor 
in the Presbyterian church at Hunting- 
don, Pa., from 1790 to 1823, a period 
of thirty-three years, and was the first 
pastor of that church. His father, An- 
drew Johnston, was a native of Huntingdon, 
Pa., where he was a prominent hotel keeper, 
well and favorably known, and where his 
useful and well-spent life was terminated in 
1885. His mother was a native of Venango 
county, 'and of Scotch-Irish ancestry; she 
died in 1858. Their family consisted of five 
children, one of whom died in infancy. 
The surviving children are : Andrew P. W.; 
Jemima Linn, wife of W. A. Crawford, a 
prominent merchant of Cooperstown, Ve- 
nango county, Pa.; Joseph, residing in Cali- 
fornia, and Kate, residing in Nebraska. 

Andrew P. W. Johnston when but six 
years of age removed with his parents to 
Huntingdon, and was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of that place. He also took a 
course of study in and was graduated from 
the Iron City Business College of Pittsburgh. 
After this he was engaged in surveying with 
J. Simpson Africa for about two years, and 
for two years later studied engineering on 
the Bedford and Bridgeport railroad. In 
1873 he entered the service of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company as engineer under 
W. H. Brown, superintendent of Bedford di- 
vision, and has been for the past twenty-two 
years continuously in the employment of 
this company, during seventeen of which he 
has been connected with the Middle divi- 
sion. 

He was married at Huntingdon, Pa., 
March 19, 1873, to Letitia Pheasant, daugh- 
ter of George W. and Elizabeth W. Pheas- 
ant. They have had three children, two of 
whom are living, Eva Kate and Andrew C. 

Mr. Johnston is a member of the Royal 
Arcanum, No. 499. He is vice-president of 
the Commonwealth Building and Loan As_ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



511 



sociation. In political views he is a good 
sound Democrat. He and his family attend 
the Presbyterian church, and Mrs. Johnston 
and her daughter are members of that reli- 
gious body. 

MacAvoy, Thomas D., road foreman's 
clerk, Middle division, Pennsylvania rail- 
road, was born in Philadelphia, May 31, 
1848. He is a son of James and Ellen 
(Grant) MacAvoy, both natives of Belfast, 
Ireland, who came to America in their early 
life and settled in Philadelphia, where they 
both died. His father was a carpet manu- 
facturer. They had born to them a family 
of three children, namely: Mary A., widow 
of the late Joseph VanWinkle, residing in 
West Philadelphia; Thomas D., and John 
M., who was drowned in the Ohio river, near 
Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1868, at the age of 
twenty-six years. Thomas D. was educated 
in the public schools of Philadelphia. He 
was engaged as salesman in a dry goods 
store and later was employed with Messrs. 
Reily & Sargent, news agents, at Columbus, 
Ohio, Richmond, Ind., Allegheny City, Pa., 
Lock Haven, Pa., and Harrisburg. He left 
the .News Company in March, 1872, and en- 
tered the service of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company as freight brakeman, and in 
September, 1872, was engaged as fireman. 
He was appointed coal premium clerk in 
1879, and filled this position until October, 
1894, when he was appointed to his present 
position. He was married at Harrisburg, 
September 17, 1876, to Mary L. Shaffer, daugh- 
ter of Cornelius and Catherine Shaffer, of Har- 
risburg. Their children are: Charles G. 
Eugene F., Gertrude Marie. John L., and, 
Norman D. In political views he is a Demo- 
crat. The family attend St. Patrick's Pro- 
Cathedral. 



Moore, W. Brooke, passenger trainmas- 
ter of the Pennsylvania railroad, was born 
at White Hall (now called Bryn Mawr), 
Montgomery county, Pa., November 3,1848. 
His father, James A. Moore, was for many 
years a prosperous and progressive agricul- 
turalist of Delaware county, but in his later 
yeais lived a retired life in Bryn Mawr, 
where he died after a well-spent life at the 
advanced age of eighty-eight years. He was 
an active member of the Marple Presbyterian 
church, of which he was for many years an 
elder. He was of Scotch ancestry and born 
in Montgomery county. His wife, Eliza 



(Lindsay) Moore, was of Irish ancestry, but 
was born and died in Delaware county, Pa. 
They had eight children. One died in child- 
hood ; James, who served one year during the 
late war in the One Hundred and Twenty- 
fourth Pennsylvania volunteers, was acci- 
dentally killed when jumping from a mov- 
ing train on the Pennsylvania railroad. 
Those surviving at this date are as follows: 
Sarah J., wife of Jesse Brooke, residing at 
West Chester, Pa. ; Catherine, wife of Jesse 
B. Matlack, residing at Bryn Mawr; Ara- 
bella, residing at Upper Darby, Pa.; John L., 
residing at Bryn Mawr ; W. Brooke and 
Cora, wife of Henry C. Childs, residing at 
Wayne, Delaware county. Pa. 

W. Brooke Moore received a common 
school education in the schools of Delaware 
county and also attended Bryant & Stratton's 
Business College, in Philadelphia. He en- 
tered the office of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company at White Hall for the pur- 
pose of learning telegraphy, but turned aside 
from this and took a position as brakeman 
on the Middle division of this road under 
Superintendent S. A. Black. He occupied 
this position until February 16, 1870, when 
he was promoted to baggage-master and 
served as such until October 8,1870; he was 
then still further advanced to the position of 
passenger conductor. On August 16, 1875, 
he was appointed train dispatcher under 
Superintendent James McCrea. On Feb- 
ruary 20, 1886, Mr. Moore was appointed as- 
sistant trainmaster under Superintendent 0. 
E. McClellan, and on January 1, 1893, re- 
ceived his appointment as passenger train- 
master, the duties of which place he still 
efficiently performs. 

W. Brooke Moore was married at Harris- 
burg, June 13, 1872, to Mary F. Zollinger, 
daughter of John H. and Julia B. Zollinger, 
of Harrisburg. Their children are Clarence 
Z. and Brooke Lindsay. Mr. Moore is a 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. & 
A. M., Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, and 
Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11. In political 
views he is a Republican. Both Mr. and 
Mrs. Moore are members of Grace Methodist 
Episcopal church. 

Clemson, Lloyd Colder, assistant road 
foreman, Middle division, Pennsylvania 
railroad, was born at Harrisburg, January 
20, 1849. His father, Amos Clemson, was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., and was of 
Scotch -Irish ancestry. For many years he 



512 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



was a packet-boat captain on both the Ju- 
niata and Susquehanna rivers, plying 
between Harrisburg and Williamsport, and 
Harrisburg and Hollidaysburg ; at the time 
of his death he was the oldest packet-boat 
captain. He also served as passenger con- 
ductor for two years, on the Middle division, 
Pennsylvania railroad. In 1851 he pur- 
chased a farm at Newport, Perry county, 
Pa., and was engaged in agricultural pur- 
suits up to the date of his death, which oc- 
curred in July, 1888, at tbe age of seventy- 
three years. He was a prominent and pro- 
gressive farmer ; he served as commissioner 
of Perry county for three years, and was 
president of the school board for many 
years. He also filled several minor offices 
in his county. His wife, Elmira Jane (Bos- 
serman) Clemson, was born at Milford, Perry 
county, September 14, 1828, and was of 
American ancestry. She is still living, and 
resides at Newport. These worthy people 
had two children born to them : Arabella, 
wife of John Funk, residing at Newport, 
and Lloyd C. 

When one year old, Lloyd's parents 
brought him to Newport, where the district 
school afforded him the only educational 
advantages he enjoyed in youth. He 
became a teacher himself, and taught 
three winters in Centre township, working 
on the farm during the summer months. 
On June 1, 1870, he engaged as fireman on 
the Northern Central railroad, between Har- 
risburg and Sunbury, and filled this posi- 
tion until December 3, 1871, when he re- 
signed it to accept the position of brakeman 
of freight train on the Middle division, 
Pennsylvania railroad, between Harrisburg 
and Altoona. He held this place until Jan- 
uary 15, 1872, when he was appointed fire- 
man on a freight train. In May, 1873, he 
was transferred to passenger fireman; De- 
cember 1, 1880, he was promoted to freight 
engineer, and May 15, 1885, he was pro- 
moted to passenger train engineer. April 
1, 1892, he was appointed to his present po- 
sition. 

Mr. Clemson was married at Harrisburg, 
September 18. 1872, to Miss Laura Nixdorf, 
daughter of Emanuel and Mary Nixdorf, of 
Harrisburg. They have had one child born 
to them, who died in infancy. He is a 
member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. 
& A. M., and Warrior Eagle tribe, No. 340, 
I. 0. P. M. In political views he is a 
staunch'? Republican. The family attend 



the Lutheran church, of which Mrs. Clemson 
is a member. 



McClintock, Charles W., assistant train- 
master, Middle division, Pennsylvania rail- 
road, was born in Loudon, Franklin county, 
Pa., April 10, 1851. He is a son of Dr. 
Joseph H. and Sarah (Allender) McClintock. 
His father was a native of Chambersburg, 
Pa. For over forty years he practiced medi- 
cine in Loudon and was regarded as skillful 
and successful. He married there a native 
of the town and there he died. His wife 
survives him and lives in the homestead they 
occupied together so many years. They had 
four children, of whom only the subject of 
this sketch is living. Charles W. was edu- 
cated in the schools of Loudon and Harris- 
burg. He entered the employment of the 
Pennsylvania railroad to learn telegraphy, 
and served as messenger boy without remun- 
eration. In May, 1869. he was appointed 
extra telegraph operator and filled this place 
one month. June 1, 1869, he was appointed 
telegraph operator and served in this posi- 
tion until 1878, when he was appointed extra 
train dispatcher. In 1881 he was appointed 
train dispatcher, and August, 1891, was ap- 
pointed assistant trainmaster. 

He was married at Harrisbur, November- 
18, 1874, to Laura Trace, daughter of Fred- 
erick and Sarah Trace, of Harrisburg. To 
them have been born five children: Janie 
Grace, Frederick T., Sarah Bell, died in in- 
fancy, Joseph H, and Edgar F. In political 
views Mr. McClintock is a Democrat. The 
family attend the Lutheran church, of which 
Mrs. McClintock is a member. 



Rose. William John, division freight 
agent of that portion of the Pennsylvania 
railroad covered by the Philadelphia, Schuyl- 
kill and Frederick divisions, was born at Pitts- 
burgh, Pa., October 5, 1852. He is a son of the 
late William John and Mary Lee (Mahon) 
Rose. In his early infancy his parents re- 
moved with him to New York City, and 
were among the earliest passengers to avail 
themselves of the modern facilities of trans- 
portation offered by the Pennsylvania "all 
rail "route over the Allegheny mountains. 
He became a resident of Washington toward 
the close of the Buchanan administration, 
his father being connected with the State 
department. Although extremely youthful, 
the stormy scenes of that threatening period 
left a deep impression upon his mind, and 




tc_^-~~^i_ XT 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



513 



he acquired a knowledge of the men and 
affairs of that day which is exceptional. 
Upon the breaking out of the Rebellion he 
returned to Pittsburgh and remained there 
during its continuance. Although he ma- 
tured rapidly he was too young to be en- 
listed in the war, but he toiled in the trenches 
besides the mechanics, merchants and pro- 
fessional men of Pittsburgh when the raids 
of Stuart and Morgan threatened that city. 
Removing to Philadelphia with the advent 
of peace, his family affiliations soon brought 
him in contact with the progressive Pennsyl- 
vania railroad developments of the time, 
among which was the recognized necessity 
for the construction of a projected indepen- 
dent line to connect the Philadelphia and 
Erie road with the oil regions. This was 
accomplished in the building of the Warren 
and Franklin railroad. A. J. Cassatt be- 
came superintendent of this line, and it was 
at his headquarters that Mr. Rose served his 
actual railroad apprenticeship. To the close 
personal association with Mr. Cassatt, and 
his skillful, though kindly discipline and 
instruction, Mr. Rose always attributes what- 
ever measure of ability he has developed in 
later years in the Company's service. When 
Mr. Cassatt was made superintendent M., 
P. and M., Mr. Rose temporarily accom- 
panied him to Altoona, returning later to 
Irvineton, and subsequently accompanying 
the headquarters' staff to Corry, to which 
point the general offices were removed in 
consequence of the absorption of the Farmers' 
railroad and the Oil Creek, forming what 
was subsequently known as the Oil Creek 
and Allegheny River railroad. This ex- 
perience afforded Mr. Rose exceptional oppor- 
tunities for acquiring a more varied and 
practical knowledge of his chosen vocation 
than Altoona seemed to promise at that time. 
It was at this period that he became actively 
engaged, first at Cincinnati and finally at 
Pittsburgh, with the Pennsylvania & Ohio 
Anthracite Coal and Transportation Com- 
pany, formed by A. J. Cassatt and other 
friends of the Pennsylvania railroad for the 
purpose of relieving the company of the em- 
barrassment caused by the want of lading 
for the large percentage of cars moving empty 
west bound. The object for the promotion 
of the coal company having been attained, 
Mr. Rose was made general freight and pas- 
senger agent of the Pittsburgh, Virginia & 
Charleston railroad, and continued so dur- 
ing the eight years of its existence under 



separate organization. Finally, when it be- 
came part of the parent system as the Mo- 
nongahela division, he continued to devote 
his energies to the commercial interests of 
that territory, to which was added the larger 
field of the main line and branches in West- 
ern Pennsylvania. In the fall of 1879 he 
was transferred to Harrisburg, succeeding 
W. C. Ward as general agent, Pennsylvania 
Railroad and Northern Central Railway Fast 
Local Freight Lines, having for their object 
the development of merchandise traffic to 
and from interior Pennsylvania and New 
York, Philadelphia and Baltimore. Upon 
the re-organization of the general freight 
agent's department, Mr. Rose was appointed 
to his present position. Educated in early 
youth at the best schools of the neighbor- 
hood, although not a college graduate, he 
has been a constant student, employing pri- 
vate tutors in the completion of his educa- 
tion, as circumstances permitted. Since his 
assignment to his present duty he has be- 
come identified in many and varied ways 
with the commercial and industrial welfare 
of his district. He is connected with the 
Railroad Men's Christian Association, of 
Harrisburg, as a member of the advisory 
board and treasurer of its building fund; 
he is a manager of the Harrisburg Hospital. 
In religion he is a. churchman, holding the 
office of rector's warden in St. Luke's parish, 
Mechanicsburg, Cumberland county, where 
he resides upon a large farm fifteen minutes' 
ride from his office, and where as a lover of 
nature he devotes his leisure moments to his 
favorite diversions — horticulture and agri- 
culture. His home, known as " Nantillie," 
is one of the oldest and most substantial of 
those old-fashioned stone mansions peculiar 
to the Cumberland Valley, and is a repro- 
be found only among the homes of the better 
duction of the severe lines of architecture fco 
type in Ireland, having been adopted by 
that sturdy Scotch-Irish race to which he 
belongs, and who, like him, believe that 
" the ornament of a house is the friends who 
frequent it." The farm of Mr. Rose is fam- 
ous among the many famous farms of that 
fertile valley, and is rapidly acquiring an 
enviable reputation for its high state of cul- 
tivation and practical and scientific develop- 
ment. The business methods of a railroad 
career having taught him that the duty of 
every man is to subdue his environment, he 
has made his fields teem with productiveness. 
Believing that it is the duty of every railroad 



514 



Bl GRAPHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



corporation to do the same thing, by recog- 
nizing the importance of its local industrial 
development and by treating the interests of 
every local industry as identical with its 
own, he has made his transportation field as 
productive. Both his own and his wife's 
family are among the oldest and most dis- 
tinguished in the State, and he brings to the 
service a ripe experience in every detail of 
his profession seldom attained by one of his 
years. Mr. Rose was married in Cumberland 
county, Pa., April 28, 1880, to Miss Sarah 
Reed Watts, daughter of William Miles and 
Anna Matilda (Reed) Watts. They have two 
children, Mary Lee and William Watts. 



Strominger, Frank, ticket and freight 
agent. Philadelphia and Reading railroad, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Harrisburg, 
December 25, 1852. He is a son of Daniel 
and Elizabeth (Henry) Strominger. 

Daniel Strominger was born in York 
county, Pa., but removed to Harrisburg 
early in life. He worked in that city at his 
trade of plastering until within a few years 
previous to his death, which occurred March 
22, 1872. His wife, Elizabeth Henry, was 
also born in York county, and came early 
to Harrisburg. Four of their ten children 
are living: Ellen, widow of Joseph Shisler, 
residing in Harrisburg; Annie, wife of A. T. 
Hubley, of Harrisburg; Agnes, wife of G. A. 
Lawrence, of Denver, Col.; and Frank. Of 
the deceased children, five died in infancy, 
and one, Lucy, at twelve years of age. The 
mother died September 14, 1885. 

Frank Strominger took the regular course 
of studies in the public schools of Harris- 
burg, and, to obtain more thorough prepara- 
tion for business subsequently took a course 
in the Eastman Business College, Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y. He then served an appren- 
ticeship of four years at bricklaying, and 
after this worked at the trade as a journey- 
man for two years. At this point the course 
of Mr. Strominger's life was changed. In 
November, 1874, he entered the service of 
the Philadelphia and Reading railroad as a 
freight house truck-hand. This was begin- 
ning at the bottom, but Mr. Strominger 
wisely appreciated the opportunity of show- 
ing his fidelity in any place, however hum- 
ble. Faithful to duty, he patiently worked 
and waited for promotion. His fidelity and 
efficiency were not unobserved by his em- 
ployers, and in due time promotion came. 
He was advanced step by step until he 



reached his present responsible position to 
which he was called May 10, 1891. 

Frank Strominger was married at Cham- 
bersburg, Pa., June 7, 1877, to Miss Matilda 
B., daughter of John and Jane (Garvin) 
White, of Wheeling, W. Va., both deceased. 
Mr. and Mrs. Strominger have four children : 
Lottie, Frank, Hugh P., and Minnie. 

Mr. Strominger is an active member of 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M.; 
Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, R. A. M., and 
Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11, K. T., of Har- 
risburg; Lulu Temple, A. A. 0. of M. of M. 
S., of Philadelphia; Harrisburg Lodge, No. 
68, Dauphin Encampment, No. 10, and 
Daughters of Rebecca, I. 0. O. F., of Har- 
risburg; also of the Mutual Beneficial Society 
of Harrisburg. 

Mr. Strominger and his family attend 
Grace Methodist Episcopal church. 



Caldbr, William James, secretary and 
treasurer of the East Harrisburg Passenger 
Railroad Company, was born in Harrisburg, 
Pa., October 1, 1853. He is a son of Will- 
iam and Regina Camilla (Greenawalt) Cal- 
der. He received his education in the 
city schools and in Seiler's Academy. He 
took the course of study in the Pennsylvania 
State College, and was graduated from this 
institution in 1875. He began business as 
discount clerk in the First National Bank. 
On the death of. his father, which occurred 
July 19, 1880, he was rnade one of the ex- 
ecutors of his estate. The discharge of this 
trust, in settling this large estate, claimed 
his entire attention up to 1886. In this 
year he became interested in the East Har- 
risburg Passenger Railway Company. He 
was made its first president, and continued 
in this position till 1889, when he became 
general manager and treasurer of the com- 
pany. In 1891 he became secretary and 
treasurer of the company, the position he 
now holds. He is a director in the Harris- 
burg Car Company, First National Bank 
and the Harrisburg Foundry and Machine 
Shop. Since his father's death Mr. Calder 
and his brother have continued the transfer 
and livery business. 

He is one of the board of managers of the 
Harrisburg Hospital, one of the board of 
trustees of the Home of the Friendless, and 
one of the board of managers of the Chil- 
dren's Industrial Home. He is a member 
of the Grace Methodist Episcopal church, 
the president of its board of trustees, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



515 



has served as superintendent of the infant 
department of the Sabbath-school. 

He is a member of Robert Burns Lodge, 
F. & A. M., a member of the Harrisburg 
Club, a member of the Inglenook Club, and 
its vice-president. In politics Mr. Calder is 
a Republican. He was married at Ilion, 
N. Y., December 1, 1880, to Jessie, daughter 
of E. Remington. They have three chil- 
dren, Helen, Ethel and William. 



ter of Jacob S. and Mary (Matheot) Snyder. 
To them has been born one son, Jacob Her- 
bert, born at Columbia, Pa., September 14, 
1878. Mr. Thomas is a Republican. He at- 
tends the Lutheran church. 



Thomas, Percy, ticket receiver of the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, was born at 
South Easton, Northampton countv, Pa., 
May 6, 1854. His father, Herbert Thomas, 
was born in Montgomery county, Pa., and is 
of Welsh ancestry. He is now extensively 
engaged in the lumber business at Louisville, 
Ivy. He served with distinction during the 
late war as captain of company D, One Hun- 
dred and Twenty-ninth regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, and was wounded at the 
battle of Fredericksburg. He was a promi- 
nent business man in Lancaster and Clinton 
counties, where he is widely and favorably 
known. His wife, Henrietta (Hecht) Thomas, 
mother of the subject of this sketch, was of 
German ancestry. Her father, Rev. John 
P. Hecht, was a noted Lutheran clergyman, 
and her mother was a native of Harrisburg. 
She died in Jefferson ville, Ind., March 23, 
1895. They had born to them a family of 
seven children, four of whom survive : Percy, 
Edward H., residing at Chattanooga, Tenn., 
Grace B., and William Herbert, residing with 
their father at Jeffersonville, Ind. 

Percy received his primary education in 
the public schools of Northampton and Clin- 
ton. He also had the advantage of a three 
years' course at Tremont Seminary, Norris- 
town, Pa. He was connected with his father's 
business as accountant for six years. On 
January 15, 1876, he entered the service of 
the Pennsylvania railroad as train agent of 
the Middle and Pittsburgh division, with 
headquarters at Pittsburgh, and later was 
transferred to the general office at Philadel- 
phia. In 1882 he removed to Michigan and 
spent two years in the lumber regions of that 
State. In 1885 he returned to the service of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as clerk 
in the auditing department at Philadelphia, 
and on October 1, 1887, was appointed to his 
present position, which he has filled accept- 
ably since that date. 

Mr. Thomas was married at Columbia, Pa., 
September 17, 1877, to Alice E. Snyder, daugh- 



Rose, Harvey J., division operator, Mid- 
dle division, Pennsylvania railroad, was 
born at Harrisburg, July 6, 1854. The Rose 
family to which he belongs were among the 
early settlers of Dauphin county. For many 
3 7 ears the grandfather Rose kept a well- 
known tavern called the " Bull's Head." 
Samuel, the father of Harvey J., was of Eng- 
lish ancestry, and his mother, Elizabeth 
(Eisenberger) Rose, was of German ancestry ; 
both were born in Cumberland county. 
Their family consisted of five children, three 
of whom survive: Lillie J., Harvey J., and 
Edward F. The father was accidently 
killed by the cars in the Pennsylvania rail- 
road yard, when returning from a shooting 
excursion. The mother still survives and 
resides in Harrisburg. 

Harvey J. attended the public schools of 
this city'. From 1868 to 1871 he was em- 
ployed as messenger boy by the Western 
Union Telegraph Company. He learned 
telegraphy in the Northern Central Rail- 
way Company's office at Bridgeport, oppo- 
site Harrisburg, and was in the employ ment of 
this company under the late Simon Cameron 
Wilson, superintendent of telegraph of North- 
ern Central line between Canandaigua and 
Baltimore, until August 1, 1876. While 
working in the superintendent's office at 
Harrisburg, he was transferred to the Mid- 
dle division, and worked as operator until 
October, 1889, when he was appointed divi- 
sion operator. While with the Northern 
Central railway he worked every office, 
both night and day, between Sunbury and 
Baltimore ; also different offices on the Bal- 
timore and Potomac railroad when it first 
opened, and was controlled by the Northern 
Central Railroad Company. In his present 
position he has charge of the telegraph opera- 
tors, numbering nearly two hundred ; of the 
telegraph repairmen, and the construction 
and maintenance of the telegraph and tele- 
phone lines of the entire length of the divi- 
sion, which includes one hundred and thirty- 
two miles. There are twelve hundred miles 
of wire with sixty-five telegraph offices, 
twenty-four of which are interlocking cabins. 
The telephone system at Harrisburg, con- 
necting the different offices throughout the 



516 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



extensive yards, was put up and installed 
under his supervision, and is one of the 
most complete on the entire Pennsylvania 
railroad. He also has charge of all the line- 
men and electric signal men between Har- 
risburg and Altoona. He had charge of the 
Voluntary Relief Department of the Middle 
division, Pennsylvania railroad, the first six 
months of its career, and he walked over the 
entire division, explaining the rules and reg- 
ulations of this department to the em- 
ployees. 

Mr. Rose was married at Harrisburg, June 
23, 1879, to Miss Margaret C. Kosher, daugh- 
ter of John and Lucy A. Kosher, of Harris- 
burg. Their union has been blessed with 
six children : Nellie C, Lucy B., Harvey J., 
Edward W., Margaret C.,and Fannie C. In 
politics he affiliates with the Democratic 
party. He and his family attend the Episcopal 
church. The business record of Mr. Rose is 
his eulogy, and the confidence and esteem of 
the community, which he enjoys, is a rich 
reward for his virtues and excellencies. 



Ellmaker, Frank, late superintendent of 
the Middle division of the Pennsylvania rail- 
road, was born August 10, 1854. He was 
educated at the Parkesburg Institute and the 
Polytechnic College of Pennsylvania, from 
which he was graduated June 26, 1875. He 
entered the service of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company June 14, 1880. From August, 

1871, to November, 1872, he was engaged 
with S. W. Mifflin, chief engineer on sur- 
veys, location and contraction of the Phila- 
delphia and Newtown, and Pennsylvania and 
Delaware railroads, in the capacity of rod- 
man, levelman and transitman. From June, 

1872, to June, 1875, he took the course at 
the Polytechnic College as above stated. 
From June, 1875, to November of the same 
year, he was engaged on surveys of La- 
moille Valley division of Portland and Og- 
densburg railroad as levelman. From No- 
vember, 1875, to June 13, 1880, he was em- 
ployed on the Springfield, Jackson and 
Pomeroy railroad in the following capaci- 
ties: From November, 1875, to January, 
1876, as rod man; January, 1876, to March, 

1876, as levelman; March to May of same 
year, as transitman; May, 1876, to August, 

1877, as assistant engineer on location and 
construction ; August, 1877, to December, 

1878, as principal assistant engineer; De- 
cember, 1878, to March, 1879, as rodman; 
March, 1879, to June 13, 1880, as chief engi- 



neer ; June 14, 1880, to April, 1881, as assist- 
ant engineer in principal engineer's office at 
Altoona; April 18, 1881, to February 20, 
1882, as assistant supervisor of division MI, 
Philadelphia division; February 20, 1882, 
to March 1, 1883, as assistant engineer of 
Monongahela division; January 1, 1883, to 
January 14, 1886, as assistant engineer of 
New York division; January, 1886, to Au- 
gust, 1889, as superintendent of Belvidere 
division; August 1, 1889, to February 1, 
1891, as superintendent of Shamokin di- 
vision, Northern Central railroad, and Sun- 
bury division of Philadelphia and Erie rail- 
road; February 1, 1891, to January 1, 1893, 
as superintendent of Amboy division ; Janu- 
ary 1, 1893, to May 1, 1893, as superin- 
tendent of Delaware Extension and Ken- 
sington division ; May 1, 1893, to October 1, 
1895, as superintendent of Middle division, 
Pennsylvania railroad. This is a bare state- 
ment of dates and facts, but is more impres- 
sive than any eloquence of language, for it 
tells of hard work, close application, techni- 
cal'skill, business, tact and ability, and the 
grand success which these qualities and 
achievements are certain to produce. In 
the winner of these substantial promotions, 
such able business men as General Roum- 
fort, James McRea and S. M. Prevost find a 
worthy successor and compeer. 

Kitzmiller, Dixon G., of the division 
freight agent's office, Philadelphia and Read- 
ing railroad, was born at Pine Grove, Schuyl- 
kill county, Pa., September 25, 1854. His 
father, Daniel Kitzmiller, came to Harris- 
burg in 1871, and was connected with these 
railroads till within a short time of his 
death, which occurred in November, 1892. 
His mother, Sarah A. (Gorgas) Kitzmiller, 
survives and is living at Harrisburg. They 
had eight children, three of whom are 
living: Frank K., Augusta G. and Dixon G. 

Mr. Kitzmiller is descended from a his- 
toric family, prominent in the early settle- 
ment of Lebanon county. His paternal 
grandmother was the daughter of Christian 
Ley (Lei), who was the son of the original 
Michael Ley (Lei) and his wife, Eva M. Ley, 
the former born in 1739 and died in 1824; 
the latter born 1744, died 1815. They are 
buried in the graveyard at Meyerstown be- 
neath the shadow of Frieden Lutheran 
church. Here also lie buried their son 
Christian and his wife, Anna Catherine 
(Coppenhoffer) Ley, the former born in 1762, 



DAUPBlN COUNTY. 



51? 



died in 1832 ; the latter died January 11, 
1822. 

Inheriting the virtues of this worthy line, 
Dixon G. sought his education in the pub- 
lic schools of his native town and also at 
Palatinate College, Meyerstown, Lebanon 
county. He was for ten years a teacher of 
music in Harrisburg. In 1880 he entered 
the service of the Philadelphia and Read- 
ing railroad, and continued in it for sixteen 
years, twelve years of which he has spent in 
the freight department. 

He was married in McAllisterville, Juni- 
ata county, April 29, 1878, to Catherine J. 
Caveny, daughter of William and Sarah J. 
(Van Ormer) Caveny, of McAllisterville. Of 
their five sons but one survives, Dixon G., 
Jr., four having died in childhood. In po- 
litical views Mr. Kitzmiller is a Republican. 
He attends the Lutheran church. 



Kerns, William H, stationary engineer, 
Harrisburg Electric Light Company, was 
born at Fayetteville, Franklin county, Pa., 
November 3, 1854. He is a son of John and 
Elizabeth (Reed) Kerns, the former a native 
of Westmoreland county, Pa., the latter of 
Franklin county, Pa. His father was en- 
gaged in farming near Fayetteville for many 
years and later worked in ore mines. He 
enlisted in 1861 in the heavy artillery and 
was killed at the battle of Chickamauga 
September 19, 1863. His wife died in 1887. 
They had four children, namely : Thomas, 
engaged in the lumber business in West 
Virginia; Mary Jane, wife of Charles E. 
Swisher, residing at St. Thomas, Franklin 
county, Pa.; William H, the subject of this 
sketch, and Charles A., who died in 1886. 

William H. Kerns was reared to manhood 
in his native county, but having been left an 
orphan early in life, his education was lim- 
ited, his success in life being due to his own 
energy and ambition. When ten years of 
age he went to work in the Caledonia ore 
mines, where he continued until 1869. He 
then removed to Mt. Pleasant, now called 
Richmond Furnace, and worked in the ore 
mines there until 1872. For four years from 
that date he worked on the Chesapeake and 
Ohio canal. From 1876 to 1878 he was em- 
ployed as mill hand in a portable saw 
mill in Little Cove, Franklin countj', 
and for three succeeding years as engineer. 
From 1881 to 1884 he was engineer in 
the ore mines at Cleversburg, and from 1884 
to 1887 in a saw mill at Chambersburg. 



From 1887 to 1889 he was engineer in the 
Dauphin car shops. He then removed to 
Harrisburg and was engaged with the elec- 
trical company one year. In 1890 he went 
to Martinsburg, W. Va., where he was in 
charge of an electric plant for over three 
years. He returned to Harrisburg in 1893 
and has since that date been in his present 
position. 

William H Kerns was married at Mer- 
cersburg, Pa., February 13, 1876, to Martha 
J., daughter of James Spidle. They have 
no children of their own, but have adopted 
the two children of a deceased brother. 
Charles A., who are named James A. and 
Elizabeth. Mr. Kerns is a member of Her- 
culean Lodge, No. 480, K. of G. E.; of Cin- 
cinnatus Commandery, No. 96, K. of M.,and 
of the Electrical Workers' Association. In 
political views he is liberal. He attends the 
Evangelical church. 



Thomas, Harry H., engineer, was born 
in Mifflin county, Pa., May 5, 1859. He is 
a son of James and Angeline (Stahl) Thomas. 
His maternal great-grandparents are of Ger- 
man origin. Henry Stahl, maternal grand- 
father of Mr. H. H. Thomas, was born at 
Lewistown, Mifflin county, and was a 
butcher. His wife was also a native of 
Lewistown. They had nine children, four 
of whom are still living : Adam, Henry, 
Mary, wife of John Morrison, of Decatur, 
111., and Angeline, wife of James M. Thomas. 
Their deceased children are : Lavinia, wife 
of Robert Jackson ; John ; Rachel, wife of 
Henry Croffer, died September 17, 1873, 
aged thirty-nine years ; Charlie, died Sep- 
tember 17, 1874, aged forty years, and 
George. The family were consistent mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church. Both grand- 
parents passed away at Lewistown, Mifflin 
county. The paternal grandparents of 
Harry H. Thomas were natives of Hunting- 
don county, Pa. His grandfather was a 
barber by occupation. He had a family of 
seven children, five of whom are living : 
Annie, wife of James McGlennan, resides at 
Zanesville, Ohio ; A^aleria Jane, wife of J. B. 
Reed, of Philadelphia, Pa. ; William; James 
M., father of Harry H. Thomas, and Martha, 
wife of William Stone, Hollidaysburg, Blair 
county, Pa. Their deceased children are: 
Johnson and E. Clarence, who died in 1889, 
aged eight}' years. Both grandparents were 
members of the Lutheran church, and both 
died at Lewistown. 



518 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



James M. Thomas, father of Harry H., 
was born in Huntingdon county, Pa., in 
1824. He spent the earlier part of his busi- 
ness life in running packet boats on the 
Pennsylvania canal between Philadelphia 
and Pittsburgh, in which business he was en- 
gaged for eleven years. Later he was em- 
ployed in the ore mines in Mifflin county 
for two years. He was married, at Lewis- 
town, to Miss Angeline, daughter of Henry 
and Susan Stahl. They had ten children, 
eight of whom are living : Valeria J., wife 
of M. H. Rider, Lewistown, Pa. ; James B., 
Harry H., Andrew M., George M., E. Clare 
J., Mary, wife of Joseph Patton, deceased, 
and Ida May, wife of Harry Haffa. Their de- 
ceased children are: Matilda, died May 15, 
1873, aged nineteen years, wife of Benjamin 
Pauling, and William H., died March 8, 
1858. After his marriage, in 1852, Mr. 
Thomas engaged in the hotel business, and 
has been a prosperous and popular hotel 
keeper for thirty-seven years. He is well 
adapted to the business, and enjo3'S it; he is 
still actively engaged in furnishing public 
entertainment. Mr. Thomas enlisted, 1861, 
in company C, Seventy-eighth regiment, 
Pennsj'lvania volunteers, participating in 
the battle of Antietam. Mr. Thomas is an 
active member of the G. A. R., and Lodge 
No. 146, K. of P. He is a Democrat in poli- 
tics, and the family are members of the Lu- 
theran church. 

Harry H. Thomas attended the public 
schools in Lewistown, Pa., until he was six- 
teen, when he left school for the railroad. 
At the age of twenty-one he took a position 
as brakeman on the Pennsylvania railroad, 
between Harrisburg and Altoona. In six 
weeks he was promoted to be fireman, in 
which capacity he served six years and five 
months. In 1888 he was promoted, to en- 
gineer, which position he has held to the 
present time. Mr. Thomas has passed 
through yevy exciting and adventurous ex 
periences, and has had some narrow escapes 
from death. On February 3, 1896, running 
between Mifflin and Mexico, his engine col- 
lided with a box car, in which accident he 
sustained injuries so severe that he was un- 
conscious for three days, and disabled for 
six weeks. Mr. Thomas was married at 
Freedom Forge, Mifflin county, Pa., April 
7, 1877, to Mary M., daughter of John and 
Mary E. (Clearer) Soles, born in Juniata 
county, July 16, 1859. They have had four 
children : Angeline, Harry F., James M., 



and one that died at its birth. Mr. Thomas 
is an active member of State Capital Lodge, 
No. 70, I. 0. 0. F., and of Egyptian Com- 
mandery. No. 114, K. of M. He is a Demo- 
crat, fie and his family are consistent 
members of the Fifth Street Methodist 
church. 

John Soles, father of Mrs. Thomas, was 
born in Juniata county. Pa. He was a far- 
mer, and in the winter was engaged in burn- 
ing lime. His wife, Mary E., was a daugh- 
ter of Thomas and Mary E. Clearer, and a 
native of Juniata county, where they were 
married. Seven of their nine children are 
living : Matilda, Mrs. Thomas ; Emma, wife 
of Joseph Jones, Harrisburg; Annabel, wife 
of Frederick Bequitt, Harrisburg ; Charles; 
Rebecca, wife of Adam Ziegler, Harrisburg; 
Edward, and Ida. Mr. Soles died at his 
home, in Beale township, Juniata county. 
He was a member of the Methodist, and his 
wife of the Lutheran church. She died in 
Harrisburg, and was interred beside her 
husband, in Juniata county. George Soles, 
paternal grandfather of Mrs. Thomas, was 
born in LickingCreek Valley, Juniata county, 
and was a laborer by occupation. He was 
married to Miss Catherine, daughter of 
Samuel and Rebecca Yocum. They had 
nine children, four of whom are living: 
George,. Mary, wife of William Wagner, 
Lewistown, Pa., Henry, and Rebecca, wife 
of George Yocum. Their deceased children 
are : Eliza, wife of Abraham Meffard; Sarah; 
John, father of Mrs. Thomas ; William, died 
June 9, 1882, aged thirty-nine years ; 
Hannah, wife of Calvin Cassner. Mr. Soles 
died at Lewistown and his wife at Licking 
Creek Valley, Juniata county. Both were 
buried in the Licking Creek Valley ceme- 
tery. The family were members of the Lu- 
theran church. Thomas Clearer, maternal 
grandfather of Mrs. Thomas, was born in 
Juniata county and was a shoemaker. He 
had a family of six children, four of whom 
are living : Amelia, wife of Andrew Heck, 
of Marysville, Perry county ; Varina, wife 
of Levi Loomey, York county ; Rebecca, 
wife of Harry Harris, Winthrop, Mass., and 
Kezia J. Their deceased children are: Mary 
E., wife of John Sales ; Harrison C, killed 
at the battle of Antietam. Mr. and Mrs. 
Clearer are buried side by side in the ceme- 
tery in Juniata county. 



McCaleb, William B., assistant engineer 
of Pennsylvania railroad, was born at Mt. 



DA UP3IN COUNTY. 



519 



Pleasant, Westmoreland county, Pa., May 18, 
1862. He is a son of John D. and Sara,h B. 
(Sherrick) McCaleb, both natives of West- 
moreland county, and both of American an- 
cestry. Both parents are living and reside 
at Mt. Pleasant, where for many years the 
father was a prominent merchant and manu- 
facturer. He was a justice of the peace for 
two terms and is well and favorablj 7 known 
in business circles. The parents had born to 
them five children, four of whom are living, 
namely: John S., residing in Connersville, 
Fayette county, Pa.; Ella, residing at Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y., secretary of Vassar College; 
William B., and Effie, residing at home. 
George H. died in 1884, aged twenty-five 
years. William B. was educated in the pub- 
lic schools and at Mt. Pleasant Institute.. 
After completing his education, in 1880, he 
entered the service of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company in the capacity of chainman 
in an engineering corps, located at Collins- 
ville, and served in this capacity there and 
at Pittsburgh and Altoona for three years, 
when he was promoted to assistant super- 
visor,- serving in this position at New Flor- 
ence, Harrisburg and Greensburg until 1886, 
when he was promoted to supervisor. He 
served in this position at Tyrone, Middle- 
town and Downingtown until December, 
1889, when he was appointed assistant engi- 
neer of West Pennsylvania division with 
headquarters at Allegheny City, where he 
was located until January 1, 1893, when he 
was transferred to the same position on the 
Middle division with headquarters at Harris- 
burg. He is a member of the Engineers 
Club, of Philadelphia. In political views he 
is a Republican. He attends the Presbyte- 
rian church. 



Roberts, George, was born in Harrisburg, 
Pa., August 13, 1862. He is a son of Alex- 
ander and Charlotte (Geiger) Roberts. He 
received his primary education in the schools 
taught by S. D. Ingram and Miss Lucken- 
baugh and completed his education in Har- 
risburg Academy. He then studied civil 
engineering, and spent several years in sur- 
veying and civil engineering on the New 
River railroad in the western part of Vir- 
ginia. Feeling the need of a more thorough 
scientific and technical knowledge of his 
business, he entered the Van Rensselear 
Polytechnic Institute, of Troy, N. Y., and 
was graduated from tbat institution June 13, 
1888. He returned to Harrisburg qualified 



and equipped for the most efficient work o 
his interesting profession. He has entered 
business for himself and is successfully con- 
ducting it. Mr. Roberts is a member of 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., 
Pilgrim Comrnandery, No. 11, K. T., Perse- 
verance Chapter, No. 21, R. A. M., Harris- 
burg Council, No. 7, Harrisburg Consistorv, 
32°; Mystic Shrine, Lulu Temple, Philadel- 
phia; Harrisburg Lodge, No. 241, B. P. O.E. 
In politics he is a Democrat. 



Whiteside, John Elton, civil engineer, 
405 Market street, was born in Philadelphia 
November 8, 1863. His father, George A. 
Whiteside, is a native of Harrisburg and has 
been engaged in the carriage building busi- 
ness since 1867. His mother, Mary Webb, 
was a native of Philadelphia and died in 
this city in 1870. He is one of four children, 
of whom three survive, namely : George A., 
Jr., residing in Stockton, Cal.; Harry I., re- 
siding in Jersey City, N. J., and John Elton, 
who came to Harrisburg with his parents 
when but four years of age. He passed 
through the course of study of the public 
schools and the high school of this city, 
graduating from the latter institution July 
2, 1880. He then entered the office of Thomas 
T. Wierman, chief engineer of the Pennsyl- 
vania Canal Company, where he remained 
until September, 1891, when he engaged 
in business for himself. He is highly re- 
spected in the community as an honorable, 
intelligent and enterprising man. He has 
won success by honorably deserving it. He 
was married in Harrisburg, May 12, 1892, to 
Jessie M. Weaver, daughter of Professor T. 
and Caroline (Pancake) Weaver, of Harris- 
burg. They have one son, John Elton, Jr., 
born August 1, 1896, at Jersey City, N. J. 
Mr. Whiteside is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., and of America 
Council, No. 3, 0. U. A.M. In political views 
he is a Democrat. He and his wife attend 
the Lutheran church. 



Musser, Frank B., general superintend- 
ent of the Harrisburg Traction Company, 
was born in Columbia, Lancaster county, 
Pa., February 19, 1864. He is a son of An- 
drew J. and Catherine E. (Shenberger) Mus- 
ser. Andrew J. Musser, his father, was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa., where he has spent 
his life. In the early portion of his career 
he was a merchant; since he retired from 
this business he has been connected with the 



520 



BIOGRAPBICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Fairview Milling Company, of which he is 
now president. He has served his native 
town efficiently as president of the town 
council and in various other capacities. He 
married Catherine Shenberger, a native of 
York county. They have two sons : John 
S., a merchant, residing in Philadelphia, and 
Frank B. 

Frank B. Musser spent his youth in his 
native town, receiving his primary educa- 
tion in the public schools. He began his 
business life in the service of the Philadel- 
phia and Reading Railroad Company as 
telegraph operator, and remained in the em- 
ploy of the company in various capacities 
for nine years. After severing his connec- 
tion with the Reading Railroad Company he 
entered the service of the Columbia Electric 
Light Company, serving as superintendent 
for three years. In March, 1889, he was ap- 
pointed general superintendent of the East 
Harrisburg Passenger Railway Company. By 
seven years of successful management Mr. 
Musser has demonstrated his general busi- 
ness abilit} r and peculiar fitness for his posi- 
tion. To him is due much of the comfort 
and convenience of the citizens in their 
transit over this road. He is popular and 
is highly esteemed for his enterprise, his 
progressive policy and his honorable bear- 
ing. 

Mr. Musser was married in Columbia, Pa., 
December 1, 1886, to Susanna R., daughter 
of William K. and Susanna (Shearer) Now- 
len, of Columbia. Mr. Musser is a staunch 
Republican. He is a member of Persever- 
ance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M. He and his 
wife attend the Thirteenth Street Methodist 
Episcopal church. 

Fisher, William H., yardmaster, Middle 
division, Pennsylvania railroad, was born in 
Lancaster, Pa., March 24, 1864. He is a son 
of Reedan A. and Dorothy (Sivilky) Fisher, 
the former a native of Chester county, Pa., 
the latter of Fellbach,Wurtemberg, Germany. 
His educational advantages were limited and 
such as could be obtained in the public 
schools of his native place. When fourteen 
years of age he started in life for himself as 
a telegraph operator. He obtained a posi- 
tion with the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany, which he held for several years. He 
was then transferred to the superintendent's 
office in Harrisburg in the same capacity. In 
1889 he was appointed train receiver and 



faithfully did the work of the place for one 
year. In 1890 he was appointed chief night 
yardmaster and on April 5, 1891, appointed 
to his present position. He was married at 
Harrisburg, April 17, 1894, to Miss Frances 
Gitt, daughter of Thomas W. and Rosanna 
Gitt. They had one child, Emily Dorothy, 
born February 12, 1895. In political views 
Mr. Fisher is a staunch Republican. He 
attends the Lutheran church. Few men are 
more highly esteemed than he. 



Holstein, Howard 0., chief of the fire de- 
partment, Harrisburg, was born at Hum- 
melstown, Pa., March 22, 1868. He is a 
son of Harry M. and Jane E. (Say! or) Hol- 
stein. His father was born near Middle- 
town, Dauphin county, Pa., August 9, 1846, 
and has spent his whole life in business. 
He has been engaged in blacksmithing in 
Harrisburg for twenty-one years. His 
mother was born in Perrysville, Pa., Novem- 
ber 29, 1838. They have had two boys, 
Howard 0. and William H., born June 20, 
1873 ; died October 28, 1878. 

Howard O. Holstein came to Harrisburg 
with his parents when he was six years of 
age. He received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of the city. He learned the trade 
of broom-making, and spent three years at 
the business. He spent one year in the 
rolling mill, and then worked nine years at 
blacksmithing with his father. On Novem- 
ber 1, 1893, he was appointed on the police 
force, serving until January 1, 1895, when 
he was appointed chief of the fire depart- 
ment, the place he now holds. He has been 
a member of the fire department eleven 
years, and president of the Citizen company 
over three j-ears previous to his appointment 
as chief. He is a deservedly popular official. 

Mr. Holstein was married at Carlisle Pa., 
December 4, 1890, to Jennie C. Strominger, 
of Goldsboro, York count}', Pa., daughter of 
Reuben P. and Elizabeth Strominger. 
They have two daughters, Frances Viola, 
born April 17, 1891, and Carrie Esther 
Ruth, born October 19, 1893. 

He is a member of the Senior and the 
Junior Order of American Mechanics, and 
is State councillor of the former. He is a 
member of Cincinnatus Commandery, No. 
96, A. & I. O. K. of M.; Fulton Council, No. 
35, 0. U. A. M.; Harrisburg Council, No. 328, 
Jr. 0. U. A. M.; Warrior Eagle Tribe, No. 
340, I. 0. R. M.; Bayard Lodge, No. 150, K. 






v. 




'-^■^^y^^- 




S. kk±hizJ\ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



523 



of P., and Firemen's Beneficial Association. 
In political views Mr. Holstein is a Demo- 
crat. The family attend the Lutheran 
church. 



Zeigler, Richard B., of Harrisburg, was 
born at Columbia, Lancaster county, Pa., 
October 5, 1874, son of Francis and Jane C. 
(Martin) Zeigler. Francis A., the great- 
grandfather, came to this country about 
1778, and located at Lancaster, Pa. The 
father was born at Columbia, April 9, 1817, 
son of John and Maria Lechler. Pie learned 
the trade of cooper in his youth and worked 
at it until he arrived at man's estate, when 
he became a teacher and followed that pro- 
fession. He was married, June 13, 1838, to 
Miss Jennie P. Martin, daughter of Richard 
and Clarissa (Berry) Martin, of Delaware. 
Their children are: Catherine, Jane, Agnes, 
Richard B., Francis, Clement, Eugenia, and 
Mary. Both parents are living and reside 
at Columbia. The father is manager of the 
Western Union Telegraph Company and 
Adams Express Company. In his political 
views he is a Democrat, while in religious 
faith and fellowship he is a Roman Catholic. 
Richard B. acquired his education for the 
most part in the public schools of Columbia, 
but his school days and privileges were 
limited, as at the age of eleven years he was 
employed in his father's office as messenger 
boy. In 1886 he entered the employment of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a 
telegraph messenger, where he was employed 
about six months, after which he was with 
the Western Union Telegraph Company in 
the Harrisburg office until 1887, when he 
received the appointment of assistant post- 
master at Harrisburg under Cleveland's ad- 
ministration, and occupied the position until 
1892. The following year he connected 
himself with the Morning Calliorsix months, 
and was afterwards engaged in lecturing 
until April 1, 1894, when he was appointed 
superintendent of the city fire alarm, which 
position he still holds. Mr. Zeigler was mar- 
ried in January, 1869, at Harrisburg, to Miss 
Sally J. McReynolds, daughter of Henry F. 
and Sarah G. (Adams) McReynolds. Their 
children are : Joseph M., Francis E., and 
Edith C. Mr. Zeigler was elected to the 
common council from the Fourth ward and 
served nineteen months. In politics he is a 
Democrat and is a member of the Roman 
Catholic church. ■ 
36 



Kutz, William C, engineer, was born in 
Allentown, Lehigh county, Pa., February 6, 
1834 ; son of the late Benjamin and Abigail 
Kutz. David Kutz, the grandfather, was a 
native of Kingston, Berks count}', Pa., and 
was a farmer. His wife was born in the 
same place. They reared a family and both 
lived to old age. Benjamin Kutz, the father, 
was a native of Berks county. In early life 
he was a tanner and later engaged in the 
lumber business and later still was proprietor 
of a hotel in Cumberland county, which he 
was conducting at the time of his death in 
1849. His wife was a native of Lehigh 
county. His children are: William C, Saliie 
A., wife of George Sourbier, of Reading, Pa.; 
Maggie, wife of William Power, deceased ; 
she married, -secondly, James Keena, also 
deceased; Henrietta, wife of Wells Hoyer ; 
John N., Allen, and one child who died in 
infancy. 

William C. attended the public schools 
until he was sixteen years of age and at the 
age of seventeen learned the blacksmith 
trade, which he followed for about six years, 
and then engaged in railroading. He was 
married in May, 1853, to Miss Mary A. 
Allen, daughter of George and Catherine 
(Raum) Allen, to whom have been born four 
children, two of whom are living: Alice M., 
wife of Jacob Kirk ; William A.; John, died 
in 1863, aged six vears; Benjamin, died also 
in 1863, aged two" years. In 1852 Mr. Kutz 
entered the service of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company and worked as a blacksmith 
for two years, and then took the place of 
fireman, which he filled six years, when he 
was promoted to engineer, in which position 
he has been continuously employed to the 
present time, with the exception of one year 
spent in the army. He enlisted in the mil- 
itary service August 19, 1864, and was dis- 
charged by special order on November 7, 
1864, when, he resumed work with the rail- 
road company. His faithful service has 
given him a place among the most highly 
honored and esteemed employees of the com- 
pany. Mr. Kutz is a member of Lodge No. 
324, F. & A. M., at Mifflintown, with which 
he united thirty-three years ago. He and 
his wife are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal church. In his political views he is a 
Republican. 

Mrs. Kutawas born July 11. 1835. George 
Allen, her father, is a native of Dauphin 
county and by trade a machinist, which he 
followed until disabled by sickness, with 



524 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



which he has suffered for about twenty 
years. He married Miss Catherine Raum, 
also a native of Dauphin county. They had 
fourteen children, five of whom are living : 
Maria, wife of David Miller; Mary A., Mrs. 
Kutz; John Y.; Emma, wife of John Dubbs; 
Virginia, wife of August Miller. Their de- 
ceased children are : Elizabeth, Cammello, 
William, Henry, Charles, George, Kate, 
Louisa, and Rebecca. Her father died in 
1889 and the mother in 1887, the former 
aged seventy-one and the latter seventy-two 
years, and both were members of the German 
Reformed church, of Harrisburg. Thegrand- 
parents of Mrs. Kutz reared six children : 
Kate, Sarah, Susillia, Elizabeth, Harry, and 
Simon, all deceased. 



of Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. of P. In po- 
litical views he is a Republican. The family 
attend the Lutheran church. 



Bickley, William H., Se., chief engineer 
of the Harrisburg Electric Company, was 
born at Bronton, Morris county, N. L, May 
26, 1846. He is a son of John H. and Eliza- 
beth (Harris) Bickley, both natives of Eng- 
land ; both came to America in early life. 
They lived in Massachusetts for many years 
and later in Pennsylvania, the father being 
one of the founders of the Pottsville Iron 
and Steel Works. He died in Elm, 
Camden county, N. J. The mother still re- 
sides at Elm, N. J. They had born to them 
a family of thirteen children, six of whom 
survive: Thomas, residing in Reading, Pa. ; 
John, residing in Dover, Morris county, N. 
J.; William H; George, residing at Orwigs- 
burg, Pa.; Miriam, wife of Albert Wood, re- 
siding at Hammonton, N. J.; and Alice, 
wife of Walter Wood, residing in Camden, 
N. J. William H. spent his early life 
in New Jersey, Massachusetts and Penn- 
sylvania. He received his education in 
the public schools of Chelsea, Mass., and 
Pottsville, Pa. He worked in a rolling- 
mill at Pottsville and followed the occupa- 
tion for about seven years. He learned the 
trade of machinist and worked at this busi- 
ness more than thirty years. On May 25, 
1872, he came to Harrisburg and worked at 
his trade of machinist in different shops and 
for himself. For the past three years he has 
filled his present position. He was married 
at Pottsville, Pa., July 18, 1865, to Virginia 
Phillips, daughter of William and Ann 
Phillips. One son has been born to them, 
William H, a sketch of whom follows in 
this volume. Mr. Bicklej' is a member of 
State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 0. 0. F., and 



Bickley, Wm. H., Jr., of the firm of Harvie 
& Bickley, proprietors of the Keystone Forge 
and Machine Works, was born in Pottsville, 
Pa., October 2, 1866. He is a son of William 
H. Bickley, Sr., and Virginia (Phillips) 
Bickley. He came to Harrisburg with his 
parents when he was seven years old, and 
was educated in the public schools. He also 
took a course in the Harrisburg Business 
College. He learned the machinist business 
and has been engaged in this business ever 
since. On August 10, 1893, he commenced 
business for himself, in connection with 
John C. Harvie, under the above firm name. 
He was married at Harrisburg, October 1, 
1890, to Rebecca Gsell, daughter of John 
and Rebecca Gsell, of Chambersburg. To 
them have been born two sons: William P. 
and John H. Mr. Bickley is a member of 
Cincinnatus Commandery, No. 96, K. of M. 
In political views he is a Republican. He 
attends the Lutheran church. 



Blyer, Robert E., a practical electrician 
and foreman of the Harrisburg Electrical 
Company, was born in what is now the bor- 
ough of Steelton, Dauphin county, Pa. He 
is a son of Robert and Susan (Black) Blyer. 
His parents removed to Harrisburg about 
1866, where they resided until death. Their 
family consisted of eight children, four of 
whom are living : Susan, wife of H. B. We- 
and ; Mary, Agnes, and Robert E. The last 
named received his education in the public 
schools of his native township. In 1862 he 
enlisted in company D, Twentieth regiment, 
Pennsylvania cavalry, afterwards called the 
First Provisional cavalry. He served in 
this regiment for three years, and during 
this service he participated in many of the 
most important engagements of the war. In 
July, 1865, he was mustered out of service 
at Philadelphia, and returned to his home 
in Steelton, where he learned the trade of 
boilermaker, and followed this occupation 
for five years. He then studied telegraphy 
with the Western Union and Baltimore and 
Ohio Telegraph Companies. Since 1886 he 
has satisfactorily filled the position he now 
holds. 

He is a member of Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, 



DAUPBIN COUNTY. 



525 



Knights of Pythias; Star of America Com- 
mandery, No. 113, Knights of Malta ; Elec- 
trical Workers' Union, No. 53 ; Fireman's 
Beneficial Association, and Mt. Vernon Hook 
and Ladder Company. 



the following concerns : Harrisburg National 
Bank and Bay Shoe Company. He i 
married. 



un- 



Hertz, William, engineer of the city 
water department, was born in Susquehanna 
township, November 14, 1847. He is a son 
of Henry and Catherine (Stober) Hertz, both 
natives of Lebanon county and of American 
ancestry. Both died in Susquehanna town- 
ship in 1848. He was educated in the public 
schools of Susquehanna township. After 
leaving school he worked in machine shops 
until 1876. Since that date he has been in 
his present position. He is one of the oldest 
officials in this department of the city ser- 
vice. His public position he has held for so 
many years because he has demonstrated his 
fidelity to duty, his mechanical skill and 
efficiency and his integrity and social worth. 

Mr. Hertz was married in Harrisburg, Sep- 
tember 28, 1873, to Mary P. Crotzer, daugh- 
ter of Peter and Rebecca Crotzer, and a na- 
tive of Lebanon county. Seven children 
have been born to them, six of whom are 
living: May, William, Roy, Grace, John H. 
and Jessie. He is a member of Phoenix 
Lodge. No. 59, K. of P., and of Robert TipDet 
Council, No. 736, Jr. 0. U. A. M. In political 
views he is a Republican. His family attend 
the Baptist church. 



Wierman, Thomas T., Jr., was born in 
Bradford county, Pa., November 11, 1850. 
His father, Thomas Thornburg Wierman, 
was a native of Manallen township, Adams 
county, Pa. His mother, Emily V. Piollet, 
was born at Wysox, Bradford county, Pa., 
and is still living, a resident of Harrisburg. 
Thomas T., Jr., came with his parents to 
Harrisburg in 1858. Here he was reared, 
and here he received his education in the 
Harrisburg Academy. He has held con- 
tinuous residence here with the exception of 
three years spent in Bedford county, Pa., 
when he was engaged in the construction of 
a railroad. His business career, with the 
above-named exception, has been with the 
Pennsylvania Canal Company, where he 
served under his father. At his father's 
death in 1887 he succeeded him in the 
charge of the business of the company. 
Mr. Wierman also sustains other important 
business associations and responsibilities, 
being a member of the boards of directors of 



Enders, Edward A., was born at Enders, 
Dauphin county, Pa., May 31, 1858, son of 
George and Susan (FetterhofT) Enders. He 
attended school in his native town for a 
short time each year until he was eighteen, 
when he devoted himself to active work on 
the farm until he was twenty-two years of 
age. He was then for a season employed in 
the mines. Then he found employment at 
the almshouse, where he was in charge of 
the insane inmates for four years, and was 
for one year in the boiler house as engineer. 
In 1886 he removed to Williamstown, Dau- 
phin county, and worked in the coal mines 
three years, after which he returned to his 
native town and lived one year with his 
family. At all these places he was employed 
as an engineer. In 1890 Mr. Enders re- 
moved to Harrisburg, and was employed in 
the same capacity by the Brelsford Packing 
Company. He has continued to be thus 
employed to the present time. 

Edward A. Enders was married at Car- 
lisle, Pa., July 30, 1885, to Alice C, daugh- 
ter of Harry and Kate Brightbill. They 
have had seven children, four of whom are 
living: Harry B., Ruth W., Calder E., and 
Grace. Their deceased children are : Frank- 
lin, died May 20, 1888, aged seven months 
and one day ; Annie, died August 19, 1891, 
aged one month and seven days, and George, 
died February 26, 1894, aged six months 
and three days. Mr. Enders is a member of 
St. John's Castle, No. 17, A. O. K. of M. C. 
His political views are Republican. 

Mrs. Enders was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., October 6, 1865. Her parents 
were both natives of tbe same county. Mr. 
Brightbill spent his early life in dealing in 
stock, and later was engaged in contracting. 
His wife was the daughter of John and 
Rachel (Manott) Kilkey. They had four- 
teen children, of whom four are living: 
Alice, Mrs Enders; Edgar; Mary, wife of 
David Huutzberger, and Franklin. Mr. 
Brightbill was a Democrat. He died July 
25, 1888, aged fifty-eight years. Mrs. Bright- 
bill survives him and resides at Carlisle, Pa., 
in good health. Both of the grandparents 
of Mrs Enders died in Cumberland county. 
They were farmers by occupation, and had 
a family of seven children, five of whom are 
living: Maria, Dollie, Eve, wife of Daniel 



526 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Fisher, deceased, Kate, Amelia. Their de- 
ceased children were: Emma, died in 1886, 
aged thirty-three, wife of Shell Ream, and 
Harry, father of Mrs. Enders. 

Baskin, George B., electrician and chief 
engineer of the Harrisburg Electrical Com- 
pany, was born in Halifax, Dauphin county, 
Pa.,April 3, 1864. He is a son of William 
and Hannah Amelia (Blaze) Baskin. His 
parents were well-known and honored resi- 
dents of Halifax township, where the father 
was engaged in agricultural pursuits. They 
had a family of eight children, five of whom 
are living : Margaret, wife of William Rhen, 
residing at Steelton, Pa.; Mary, wife of 
Thomas A. Bates, residing in Onset, Leb- 
anon county, Pa.; Annie, wife of William 
Workman, residing at Wesquehoning, Car- 
bon county, Pa.; George B. and Laura, wife 
of Philip Garrahan, residing in Knaqua, 
Schuylkill county, Pa. 

George B. lived in Halifax until he was 
ten years old. His educational advantages 
were limited. His success in the business of 
life is due more to his own exertions than 
to the training and aid of schools. In 18Y4 
he removed to Lykens and began the study 
of steam engineering. This business has 
been his life occupation. Since 18S8 he has 
filled his present position with the Harris- 
burg Electric Company, and has proved to 
be the man for the place. He was married 
in Wormleysburg, Cumberland count)', Pa., 
July 19, 1890, to Miss Lillie May Bodmer, 
daughter of John and Leah Bodmer, of 
Steelton, Pa. Their union has been blessed 
with two sons, Harry Edison, who died at 
the age of four years and six months, 
and George William. Mr. Baskin is a mem- 
ber of Herculean Lodge, No. 480, K. of G. 
E.; Warrior Eagle Tribe, No. 34, I. 0. R. M., 
and Native Brotherhood of Electrical Work- 
men, No. 53. In politics he is a Republi- 
can. He attends the United Brethren 
church. 



Hickok, William Okville, was born at 
the residence of his maternal grandfather, 
Job Lock wood, near Warsaw, Wyoming 
county, N. Y., October 6, 1815. He was a 
scion of good English stock, a descendant of 
an old and honorable family of Warwick- 
shire, England. The name has been spelled 
in various waj's, almost as numerous as the 
possible combination of letters compris- 
ing it would admit, and this fact indicates 



a long family history. Had Mr. Hickok been 
inclined to boast of his ancestry he could 
have pointed to illustrious names in his line 
in this and many preceding generations, 
whose achievements and rank would have 
justified an honest familj' pride. It was his 
aim rather to prove himself worthy of his 
ancestors, and to add to the luster of his line 
by accomplishing something in his own ca- 
reer worthy the recognition and honor of 
mankind, and in this laudable ambition he 
was gratified, as a brief record of his life 
will show. The first American ancestor of 
the name was William Hickox, of Farming- 
ton, Conn., of the seventh generation pre- 
ceding William 0., the date of whose coming 
to this country cannot be definitely fixed, 
but is somewhere between 1627 and 1633. 
In his boyhood Mr. Hickok displayed the 
possession of those talents which later gave 
him success and distinction. He met with 
an accident when five years old by being 
trampled down in the street in front of his 
home in Ithaca, N. Y., by a passing horse, 
the resulting injuries of which were so great 
that his life was saved only by a difficult 
surgical operation, and which left him an 
invalid many j'ears and caused him physical 
limitations and adversities which he bore 
through life. His parents removed to Penn- 
sylvania, but he remained with his maternal 
grandparents until he was fifteen years old, 
when he rejoined his family at Lewistown, 
Pa., where his father was conducting a pop- 
ular academy and where he pursued a course 
of studies. It was thought best to put Will- 
iam 0. in training for mercantile pursuits, 
and with this end in view he entered the 
employment of James Parker, in whose 
stores he soon won a reputation for intelli- 
gence, aptness and trustworthiness. In 1834 
his father gave up teaching and embarked 
in the book publishing business and William 
0. entered the bindery department as an ap- 
prentice, but in a short time was promoted 
on merit to the position of foreman. The 
work of Mr. Hickok in this country office is 
of the deepest interest, not only to the prac- 
tical mechanic and artisan, who delights in 
seeing valuable mechanical results produced, 
but equally also to the philosopher who 
makes a stud}' of the development of human 
powers and talents. In boyhood Mr. Hickok 
had invented and constructed ingenious 
toys and had shown that he was gifted with 
remarkable talent in the way of invention 
and the application of mechanical princi- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



527 



pies. This talent was called into use in the 
office, when there were rude and imperfect 
appliances producing incomplete and unsat- 
isfactory results, of improvements suggested 
by his fertile brain and executed by his 
skillful hand, there were many ; and, indeed, 
through his whole connection with the book 
business there was a continued exercise of 
his inventive faculties and an output of prac- 
tical improved appliances. In 1836 his father 
removed the business to Chambersburg, Pa., 
where William 0. continued in charge of the 
mechanical department and kept on im- 
proving the tools and machinery. He re- 
moved to Harrisburg with his father's family 
in 1839. His father shortly after retired 
from business and William 0. conducted a 
book bindery for a time, but losses by fire and 
other adverse business conditions led him 
finally to abandon the business. This fail- 
ure of business plans appeared disastrous, but 
in reality proved to be the way of his final 
prosperity by leading him gradually into a 
field where there was room and occasion for 
his undeveloped talents. As earl}' as 1846 
he began in a small shop to manufacture 
bookbinder's specialties and from this germ 
has sprung the magnificent plant of the 
" Eagle Works," the most extensive and the 
most complete of the kind in the world. In 
1886 the business was incorporated as the 
Hickok Manufacturing Company, with Mr. 
Hickok as its first president. 

It would be profitable to trace the steps 
and stops of this development, for it would 
reveal the history of human genius in its 
growth and fruitage. The production of a 
perfect ruling pen, and that which displays 
still more ability, the production of a ma- 
chine to make the pen, which is as nearly 
perfect as any the human brain and hand 
have ever constructed, are among the achieve- 
ments of Mr. Hickok, which have given him 
a world-wide fame and most honorable dis- 
tinction. The cleverness and completeness 
of the productions of this factory places them 
beyond and above all competitors and assures 
the permanent and liberal prosperity of his 
enterprise. Mr. Hickok had business talent 
which would have made him successful and 
conspicuous in any branch of enterprise, 
but which, coupled with his mechanical 
genius, enabled him to create an establish- 
ment which is a landmark in human pro- 
gress and achievement. His combination of 
qualities and characteristics account for his 
distinguished success. Impaired health, ad- 



verse business conditions and other unfa- 
vorable elements often stood in his way, but 
his disposition to thoroughness, his unswerv- 
ing devotion to his aim, his careful and 
painstaking attention to details, his inven- 
tive genius and his indomitable energy and 
courage bore him successfully through all 
hindrances and made him master in the 
realm in which he wrought. With these 
masterful elements of power were conjoined 
the qualities of heart which won for him the 
confidence and esteem of all who worked 
with him and under him, and made them 
all anxious to gratify him by the best ser- 
vices they could render. In public matters 
Mr. Hickok was interested and prominent. 
The element of prosperity of the community 
to which his business contributed was no less 
gratifying to him than his personal success. 
For six years he was the president of the 
common council, and willingly gave his 
ablest services to the public when his fellow- 
citizens desired them. His death occurred 
May 25, 1891, in his seventy-sixth year. His 
loss was felt by the community and all bore 
grateful tribute to his ability and worth. 
He was married in Harrisburg, Pa., Septem- 
ber 10, 1840, to Miss Caroline L. Hutter. 
Their children were: Mary Alice, Edwin 
Hutter, William Orville, Jr., Caroline Louisa, 
widow of Frank P. Schell, and George 
Herbert. 



Bailey, Charles Lukens, son of Joseph 
Bailey and Martha (Lukens) Bailey, was 
born March 9, 1821, in Chester county, Pa. 
His paternal ancestors were of English and 
his maternal ancestors of Welsh descent. 
His great-grandfather, Edward Bailey, was a 
resident of Bucks county and his grandfather, 
William Bailey, a resident farmer in Phila- 
delphia county, Pa. His father was born in 
1796 and settled in Chester county in 1819, 
where he carried on farming until 1838, when 
he engaged in the iron business at the old 
Lukens' mill in Coatesville and there manu- 
factured boiler plate for six years. In 1844 
he removed to Berks county, near Pottstown, 
and erected on the site of the " Old Forge " 
of the Pine Iron Works, a rolling mill and 
carried on business alone for a few years and 
afterwards in connection with his sons under 
the firm name of Joseph Bailey & Sons, until 
within a short period, when he retired from 
active life, leaving his manufacturing inter- 
ests then in the hands of his son, Joseph L. 
Bailey. The children of Joseph and Martha 



528 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Bailey were: Charles L., Sarah, Edward, 
formerly manager of the iron works at Glas- 
gow, Montgomery county, deceased ; Dr. 
George, of Philadelphia; William L., treas- 
urer and manager of Thorndale Iron Works; 
Joseph L., Hannah, and Anne, deceased. 

Charles L. Bailey, eldest son, obtained his 
eaily education at the Westtown School, 
Chester county, and for some time thereafter 
was a clerk in the drug store of Thomas 
Evans & Co., of Philadelphia. His career 
in the iron business began in 1838 as a clerk 
for his father at Coatesville, where he became 
thoroughly conversant with the details of the 
business carried on at that place. He re- 
moved with his parents to Berks county, 
where he continued his clerkship for five 
years, and from 1849 to 1852 was a partner 
witli his father in the Pine Iron Works. In 
August of the latter year Mr Bailey removed 
to Harrisburg and in connection with Morris 
Patterson, of Philadelphia, founded the Old 
Central Iron Works, which he has latterly 
used as a puddling mill. He continued busi- 
ness until 1859 when he became interested 
with the late James McCormick in the Nail 
Works at Fairview, Cumberland county,- re- 
built the works and carried them on success- 
fully until 1866, when he retired from the 
firm, and founded and erected the present 
Chesapeake Nail Works in Harrisburg. 
Later he associated with him his. brother, 
Dr. George Bailey, under the firm name of 
Charles L. Bailey & Bro. The business is 
now carried on by Charles L. Bailey & Co., 
Artemus Wilhelm being a part owner in the 
concern. 

In 1869 Mr. Bailey removed to Pottstown, 
and until 1875 was the treasurer and general 
manager of the Pottstown Iron Company, 
manufacturing nails, boiler plate and pig 
iron. Closing out his interest there he re- 
turned to Harrisburg, and in 1877-78 erected 
the present Central Iron Works, contiguous 
to the Chesapeake Nail Works, of which he 
is president. Mr. Bailey is thoroughly im- 
bued with the spirit of progress and enter- 
prise, as his various industrial undertakings 
attest, and although his mind is largely ab- 
sorbed in business pursuits, he has not held 
entirely aloof from duties incumbent upon 
him as a citizen. He is president of the 
board of trustees of the Market Square Pres- 
byterian church, and in 1880 he was ap- 
pointed by Governor Hoyt a trustee of the 
Pennsylvania Insane Asylum. He was 
elected a member of the select council of the 



city in 1877, was a member of the State Leg- 
islature in 1879, and in 1881 he was again 
elected a member of the select council, chosen 
president, and served as chairman of the 
finance committee. 

Mr. Bailey married, in 1856, Emma H. 
Doll, daughter of William Doll and Sarah M. 
(Elder), of Harrisburg, whose maternal great- 
grandfather was Rev. John Elder. Their 
surviving children are: William Elder, a 
graduate of Yale in the class of 1882 ; 
Edward, Jr., a graduate of Yale scientific 
course in the class of 1881 ; Charles L. and 
James B., also graduates of Yale, and Emma 
D., wife of Robert E. Speer, of New York. 



Hildrup, William Thomas, formerly 
treasurer and general manager of the Harris- 
burg Car Works and its kindred manufac- 
tories, was born in Middletown, Conn, Feb- 
ruary 6, 1822. and is the son of Jesse Hil- 
drup, of Hartford, in the same State. He ob- 
tained his education in the common schools 
of the district, and was an apt and advanced 
scholar, especially in studies of a mathemati- 
cal character. 

Having learned the carpenter trade, at the 
age of nineteen years he started out in life, 
with the sum of twentj'-five dollars and a 
plain set of carpenter's tools, with such energy, 
capacity and industry as may be inherent in 
him, to carve his way in the world. He first 
proceeded to Cape Vincent, Jefferson county, 
N. Y., working at house and ship carpenter- 
ing for a period of two years, after which he 
went to Worcester, Mass., where he entered 
Bradley & Rice's car works as one of their 
employees. Determining that a business that 
was worth following was worth mastering, 
and that though railroading was in its in- 
fancy, it was bound to be one of the great in- 
dustries of the country, he set himself to the 
task of obtaining the highest knowledge of 
that branch of the business, and was soon 
noted for industry and skill. He began also 
a close study of theoretic mechanics, as well 
as a close application of best practices. Dur- 
ing nine years' stay in these works, he be- 
came thoroughly proficient in every depart- 
ment. Two years after going to Worcester 
he married Harriet E., daughter of John B. 
Esselstyne, of Cape Vincent, N. Y., a daugh- 
ter of one of the prominent families there, 
and a niece of the Hon. Orville Hungeford, 
a prominent banker and railroad man of 
Watertown, N. Y. 

In 1852, believing himself qualified for 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



529 



higher responsibilities and more profitable 
opportunities, he removed to Elmira, N. Y., 
where he established a car wheel foundry and 
machine shop. While en route to Elmira he 
met traveling a prominent citizen of Harris- 
burg, Pa., who set before him the advantages 
that locality possessed for a railroad car works, 
but he was then too far committed to the en- 
terprise at Elmira to change at that time, 
but in 1853, a year later, he was induced to 
visit Harrisburg at the solicitation of several 
of its citizens, where he consented to take up 
the enterprise, and then organized the Har- 
risburg Car Manufacturing Company and 
commenced the erection of its buildings— a 
small works with a capacity of nine eight- 
wheeled cars weekly and a capital stock of 
$25,000 — taking charge as manager. 

In 1862 the company was entirely re-or- 
ganized with a capital stock of $75,000, made 
up from its original money paid in, and from 
accumulated earnings — a new departure that 
greatly augmented its production, employing 
two hundred and fifty hands. In 1864 its 
capital was again increased, and so success- 
ful had it been that in four years more its 
capital was raised to twelvefold the original 
sum, and all from earnings, besides having 
paid liberal cash dividends from time to time 
during the period. Thus in fifteen years it 
had risen from a modest beginning of small 
capacity to a large and prosperous enterprise, 
with over a thousand busy men in a teeming 
hive of industry. By his enterprise other es- 
tablishments grew out of the undertaking — 
a saw mill, planing mill and a large machine 
works, the property of the present enterprise. 
When he first came to Harrisburg there 
was very little mechanical skill ahiong the 
artisans of the city. Being possessed of great 
mechanical ability, skillful and experienced, 
with a mastery of all the details, he was able 
to lead practically, and from the crude ele- 
ments of mechanical attainment, bring out 
a body of skilled workmen, to effect which 
during the winter of 1853-54 he established 
a free school, for the instruction of his young 
men, in free-hand and mechanical drawing, 
thus cultivating them in theoretic mechanics 
and general intelligence for leaders to a 
higher skill and efficiency. 

Having been a mechanic himself, among 
the first things receiving his attention were 
the interests and well-being of the workmen 
under his charge, endeavoring to improve 
their condition. Custom made the pay- 
ments of laboring men lax and irregular. 



He commenced by adopting a weekly pay- 
ment of partial earnings for the weekly 
necessities of market, paying the balance in 
monthly settlements- Other methods were 
organized for concentrating their wants for 
coal and flour, which a few substantial 
dealers would make concessions to secure, 
the company paying for the same monthly, 
thus securing to the workmen lower prices 
than their individual purchases could be 
made by other means. He has never al- 
lowed one dollar to be brought to the treasury 
of the company by any speculation for re- 
duction of the'money promised as wages to 
the workmen. 

By his unselfish, persistent and sincere 
care of their interests he greatly endeared 
them to him, and they manifested'to him the 
utmost respect and kindest regard, believing 
he had the heart to do them justice. In 
this connection it maybe stated, that on his 
fifty-first birthday, February 6, 1.873, he was 
the recipient of a massive' silver tea service 
of a cost of $1,250, which was presented to 
him as a testimonial of affection and esteem 
by the employees under his control. The 
greatest secrecy in getting up this kind re- 
membrance was had, fearing if it came to 
his knowledge he would suppress the effort, 
which secrecy was successfully maintained 
until being invited to meet them for a little 
manifestation of their kind feeling, supposed 
to be on his part something more of kind- 
ness than value. He was only undeceived 
when a magnificent chest of silverware was 
opened to his astonished gaze. It was 
kindly meant and gratefully received, under 
protest of the hope that none had been 
oppressed or coerced into contributing to the 
purchase for fear of favor to be lost. In this 
connection it may also be stated, that in the 
early history of the company, at the second 
annual meeting, so great was the satisfaction 
of the stockholders with the success of the 
enterprise, that the proposition was then 
made to present the manager with a silver 
service, at a cost of $650. He, on his part, 
having his sympathies frequently enlisted 
by sickness among his men or their families, 
instead of receiving such testimonial, re- 
quested that he be allowed to contribute 
among the men as need required, from the 
company's funds, an equivalent sum, which 
was kindly granted, and from that time for- 
ward it has been his policy never to let his 
employees suffer in sickness of themselves, 
or their families, oftentimes burying their 



530 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



dead, helping them by advances in slack 
work, to be worked out in more prosperous 
times, to which obligation the men have 
been uniformly faithful, and in case of in- 
jury about the works kindly care has been 
taken of the injured. 

His mechanical faculty, perfected by dili- 
gent study with a life-long practice, has 
raised him to the highest ranks of best me- 
chanics in the enterprises of the Common- 
wealth. He has largely aided in building 
up the industries of Harrisburg, and added 
to its wealth and prosperity, disseminating 
many millions of dollars to its laborers, 
thence ramifying through all the trade of 
the city, and this largely from products sent 
to foreign states and territories. 

Railroad car building has in its history 
periodic seasons of depression. In the panic 
of 1857 this was notably the condition, but 
a familiarity with general manufactures 
and mechanics enabled the manager, with 
the facilities of a fully equipped car works, 
by watchfulness to select some other branch 
for the employment of his facilities, and the 
manufacture of machinists' tools was taken 
up and successfully established. On the re- 
covery of railroads from the distress of the 
panic, and renewal of business, with the 
growth consequent on increased population, 
and the neglect to keep up rolling stock, 
made urgent demand for new cars — a profit- 
able business for car works, so much so that 
every facility of the works could be fully 
used in that line, crowding out the machine 
business. Under these conditions twenty- 
two acres of land in another portion of the 
city were purchased, large and commodious 
shops built and equipped with best class 
machinery, the machine business removed 
thereto, and since carried on as the Harris- 
burg Foundry and Machine Works, now 
doing a large and flourishing business in 
general boiler and engine work, where great 
numbers of oil tanks and the company's 
celebrated "Ide" engine, and a great variety 
of other foundry, machine and boiler work 
are manufactured. 

The large consumption of lumber and the 
difficulty of keeping up assortments of sup- 
plies, led to the purchase, in 1865, of a fully 
equipped saw mill in the city, which since 
has been one of the active branches of the 
company's works, adding to the care of the 
manager. Five years since, the old mill 
and site were sold and a large new mill of 
modern equipment built at a more con- 



venient point. In 1871, for the enlarge- 
ment of the works, ground was purchased at 
contiguous points, and a large planing mill 
erected and equipped as a branch of the 
works. 

On the 25th of April, 1872, a passing lo- 
comotive set fire to the car works, and in an 
hour's time, buildings, lumber, cars and 
everything combustible were in flames, mak- 
ing a total destruction of the great plant. 
Again the manager's mechanical experience 
and ability for directing working forces were 
tested to the utmost. At one o'clock p. m. 
the fire commenced, and that night the saw 
mill was set sawing lumber for the erection 
of a shop for building cars at the foundry 
and machine works, and by seven o'clock 
the next morning carpenters were at work 
framing the same. With the foundry and 
machine department and the planing mill 
facilities, five box cars were daily erected 
there during the rebuilding of the car works. 

Every drawing, pattern and guide to build 
by had been consumed by the flames ; the 
old works had been built small as a begin- 
ning, and additions made from time to time 
as business advanced; the total destruction 
of the works admitted plans more fitting to 
the plant, which were arranged and under 
the immediate direction of the manager, the 
busiest man in the force. The great collec- 
tion of large buildings, counting from the 
day of the tire, was erected, with shafting and 
machinery put in place, in ninety days' time, 
and turning out ten eight-wheeled finished 
cars daily. This when told to experienced 
builders seems to be incredible, but it is a 
fact well known to many of the citizens of 
Harrisburg. 

Summarizing, he has within the thirty- 
five years since he began this enterprise, 
starting with $25,000, with a small plant, 
with crude and unskilled labor, built up 
this large system of works, the mechanical 
head and master. He retired from the ma- 
chine works in 1891. f 

During the war of the Rebellion lie aided 
in supplying the Government with horses. 
He ran the first train over the Baltimore 
and Ohio railroad after the battle of Antie- 
tam . 

He has steadily refused to seek or receive 
political honors, believing the responsibili- 
ties of an active business life was a full 
measure of one man's duties. He has had 
many other interests and business connec- 
tions besides those herein named. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



531 



He has been a member of the Episcopal 
church many years, and is a contributor to 
the city hospital. He believes sincerely in 
his duty under God to his fellow-man, as 
taught by the gospel of Christ, has invested 
in his business under that command, kind- 
ness and paternal care over those under his 
direction, and while believing in it as a duty, 
also believes in it as a wise policy. It brings 
willing hands and hearts to his aid — a prime 
element of successful working out a prob- 
lem of associated life. He is a member of 
the Masonic fraternity. 

He has three surviving children, one son, 
W. T. Hildrup, Jr., associated with him in 
the management as secretary of the company 
and superintendent of the car wheel making 
department. He is himself now one of the 
oldest car wheel makers in the country, hav- 
ing been in it for forty years. His first wife 
having died, he was again married, in Octo- 
ber, 1876, to Miss Emma J. Piper, of Phila- 
delphia, a lady of high culture, a devoted 
and affectionate wife. 



Gilmore, James A., Harrisburg Bridge 
Company, was born in Indiana county, Pa., 
August 7, 1822, son of John and Elizabeth 
(Davies) Gilmore. The mother was a native 
of Carlisle and the father who was of Scotch- 
Irish descent, came from the North of Ire- 
land to America when a young man. On 
his arrival he enlisted in the United States 
army and served in the war of 1812. After 
the war he settled in Indiana county, and 
after his marriage removed from there to 
Carlisle, Pa., where both he and his wife 
died. He was a contractor and was engaged 
in work on the Cumberland Valley railroad. 
James A. left home at the early age of six- 
teen years and went to Duncannon, Pa., 
where he found work among the furnaces 
until 1840, when he came to Harrisburg and 
learned the trade of cabinet maker with 
Joseph R. Boyd. He worked at his trade 
for some years and then was employed by 
the State in the building of the Pennsylvania 
canal, worked on bridges, locks and gates 
for five years and subsequently was employed 
about the same length of time by the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, after which he 
engaged with W. 0. Hickok at the Eagle 
Works, in the wood working department, 
where he remained a number of years. In 
1873 he entered the service of the Harris- 
burg Bridge Company and took charge of 
the repair work on the bridge, which position 



he has occupied since that time. Mr. Gil- 
more sent a substitute into the army. In 
his political views he is a Democrat but has 
never sought office. He was married, in 
1844, to Miss Adeline Stahl, daughter of 
John Stahl, of Harrisburg. Their children 
are: John A., a retail merchant of Harris- 
burg ; Mary, wife of Lalta Laverty, of Nor- 
wood, Delaware county ; Ida, married W. J. 
Poole, deceased. Mr. Gilmore is an active 
member of the Presbyterian church. 



Becker, Henry, tentmaker at the State 
Arsenal, was born in the city of Saarbrucken, 
province of Lorraine, France, May 4, 1823. 
He is a son of the late Philip and Caroline 
(Myer) Becker. His parents had born to 
them a family of nine children, of whom 
Henry, the subject of this sketch, and Will- 
iam P., an ex-alderman and police magis- 
trate, are the only living members. Henry 
attended a German school in his native city 
for two years. When seven years old he 
came to America with his parents in 1830 
and located in what was then the suburbs of 
Philadelphia. He completed his education 
in the private schools of Port Richmond, Pa. 
He worked in the rope-walks of Port Rich- 
mond for one year. In 1836 he was bound 
out as apprentice to the baker's trade and 
worked at this business for six years. From 
1839 to 1841 he was a contractor for unload- 
ing vessels arriving in the Schuylkill river 
with cargoes of wood. In the beginning of 
May, 1841, he shipped in the United States 
navy, and was assigned to the sloop-of-war 
Cyane, Capt. Cornelius Stribling commander. 
He served for five years on this vessel, dur- 
ing her trip to the North and South Pacific 
ocean, on a surveying and exploring expe- 
dition. In 1812 the vessel was pressed into 
the service to assist Commodore Jones, the 
naval commander of the Pacific coast, to take 
possession of California. In the fall of 1845 
he returned to Philadelphia, and was dis- 
charged from the service. From 1846 to the 
fall of 1848 he was engaged in the merchant 
service between New York and London. On 
February 1, 1849, he removed to Harrisburg 
and carried on a baking business for Charles 
F. Muench, for one year. In 1850 he engaged 
in the baking business for himself and con- 
tinued in it till 1877. From 1877 to 1883 
he was in charge of the lumber yard of 
Trullinger & Co. Since that date he has 
filled his present position in the State 
Arsenal. From 1860 to 1872 he fired all 



532 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



State salutes, and this duty he still performs 
on State occasions. 

He has been twice married, his. first mar- 
riage occurring in Harrisburg, March 26, 
1850, when he was united in matrimony by 
Rev. Charles A. Hay to Sophia Morsh, of 
Harrisburg. There were no children by 
this marriage. Mrs. Becker died November 
25, 1856. He was united in marriage the 
second time in Carlisle, Pa., by Rev. Mr. 
Hoffman, a Lutheran minister, December 24, 
1858, to Margaret E. Umberger, daughter of 
Benjamin and Elizabeth (Smith) Umberger. 
To this marriage have been born nine chil- 
dren, six of whom are living, namely: 
Catherine, wife of Joseph Blackburn, resid- 
ing in Philadelphia; William U., residing 
in Harrisburg; Henry, residing in Buffalo, 
N. Y.; Margaret E., wife of William Shel- 
drake, residing in Philadelphia; Charles P., 
residing in Harrisburg; and Louisa, wife of 
John Tress, residing in Harrisburg. Mrs. 
Becker died February 22, 1892. 

In political views Mr. Becker is now a 
Republican. He attends the Lutheran 
church. Mr. Becker has been a traveler to 
all parts of the world and has accumulated 
a store of information which he readily im- 
parts. His ready flow of language and 
genial manners make him a good enter- 
tainer in all circles. 



Brenneman, Adam, deceased, was born in 
South Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., May 8, 1825. He was a son of Henry 
Brenneman, a native of Lancaster county. 
Henry Brenneman was a farmer of South 
Hanover township, and was killed by acci- 
dent while felling a tree. He had five chil- 
dren : Eve (Mrs. William Scheffer), of Ohio ; 
Adam ; Mary (Mrs. Jacob Etter), deceased ; 
Elizabeth, deceased ; Jacob, deceased, resided 
in Ohio, and was a farmer and mechanic. 

Adam Brenneman married Miss Harriet 
Stoudt, and located in Lower Paxton town- 
ship. Thence he removed, first to Susque- 
hanna township, thence to East Hanover 
township, and engaged in farming. When 
he retired from business he moved into 
Harrisburg, where he died in 1888. He 
served as school director in East Hanover 
township, and helped to fill the quota from 
that township during the war. He was 
brought up in the Lutheran church, but 
later in life he and his wife became mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. 
His wife died in 1890. They reared eight 



children to maturity : Elizabeth (Mrs. Jacob 

C. Albert), of Harrisburg; William H.; 
Adam, of Derry township ; Edward, Jacob 

D. and Ephraim, all of Harrisburg ; Calvin, 
of Kansas City, Mo., and Louisa. 

Brenneman, William H., was born in 
Lower Paxton township, May 15, 1849. He 
was educated in the public schools, at Sel- 
ler's Academy and by private tutors. He 
taught school in the township and at 
Harrisburg for several years. In 1876 he 
began business as a florist, and continued 
until 1881, when he engaged in the manu- 
facture of mince meat. He does an exten- 
sive business in this line, shipping his pro- 
ducts to all parts of the United States. In 
political opinions Mr. Brenneman is Repub- 
lican. He is a member of the Knights of 
Malta. 

W. H. Brenneman was married in 1871 to 
Miss Emma E., daughter of Samuel Hassler, 
of Lower Paxton township. They have five 
children : Hattie, Blanche, Bessie, Susie and 
Emma. The family are members of the 
Lutheran church. 



Handshaw, Henry, was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., June 21, 1827 ; son of John and 
Catherine (Keim) Handshaw. The grand- 
parents were natives of Germany and were 
by occupation farmers. The parents were 
both natives of Dauphin county. The father 
was born January 8, 1799. He followed the 
occupation of farmer until within a short 
time of his death. He married Miss Cath- 
erine Keim, by whom he had three chil- 
dren, two of whom are living: Elizabeth, 
wife of Simon Tobias, deceased, and Henry. 
Susan, deceased, was the wife of David 
Martz, also deceased. Mr. Handshaw was 
married, secondly, in 1832, to Miss Mary 
Carl, to whom were born seven children, five 
of whom are living: Jacob W., J. Levi, 
Thomas L., Isabella, wife of Jacob Straw, 
Emma, wife of John L. Henny, of Carlisle, 
Pa. Their deceased children were Anna 
and Mary. Mr. Handshaw was originally a 
Whig in politics, but became a Republican. 
He was a member of the U. B. church. His 
death occurred June 8, 1884, at the age of 
eighty-five years, and he is buried at the U. B. 
churchyard at Centerville, Pa. His first 
wife died in 1831. His second wife is still 
living at the advanced age of 88 years and 
resides at Carlisle, Pa. 

Henry was reared on the farm in Cum- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



533 



berland county and attended the public 
schools a part of the time each year until he 
was seventeen years old, when he left the 
farm to learn the trade of carpenter at Car- 
lisle. He worked at his trade in Harrisburg 
seven years, and then secured a position in 
the car works, where for five years he had 
charge of the car department, at the end of 
which period he was advanced to the po- 
sition of assistant superintendent of the 
works, which he held until 1888. In all he 
lias been with the works in this department 
for thirtj'-three j'ears and has won an en- 
viable reputation for mechanical skill and 
fidelity. Mr. Handshaw was married De- 
cember 23, 1851, in Harrisburg, to Miss 
Mary A. Quick, daughter of James and Alice 
(Lamb) Quick, to whom four children have 
been born : James Q., Catherine, wife of S. W. 
Guiles, of Columbia, Pa.; William T. H., 
Harry I. His wife died June 5, 1879. He 
married again July 8, 1880, Miss Margaret 
Quick, sister of his first wife. Mr. Hand- 
shaw was not in any active work during the 
year 1886, but the following fourteen months 
was manager of the car works, since which 
time he has lived retired. 

He is an active member of the Order 
United Workmen. In his political views 
he is a Republican. His church member- 
ship is with the Grace M. E. church. 

The parents of Mrs. Handshaw were of 
Irish descent and came to this country 
about 1800. The father was a blacksmith by 
trade and followed this occupation. He 
married Miss Alice Lamb, by whom he had 
three children, the only survivor of whom is 
Margaret, the second wife of Mr. Handshaw. 
Mr. Quick died at the age seventy-two years 
and is buried in Juniata county, and his wife 
is buried in the Harrisburg cemetery. He 
was a member of the M. E. church and his 
wife of the Episcopal church. 



Mather, Edmund, president of the board 
of commissioners of water and light depart- 
ment, was born in Lancaster, England, 
September 8, 1827. He is a son of James 
and Sarah (Aked) Mather. He was reared 
in his native land and received his educa- 
tion in the private schools. He learned the 
trade of paper-making with his father. In 
1849 he emigrated to America and first 
settled near Fitchburg, Mass. where he 
was employed in the paper mills for three 
years. In 1852 he went to Raleigh, N. C, 
and took charge of a paper mill, remaining 



for three years, having control of the mill on 
Crab Tree creek. In 1854 he purchased the 
machinery and built a large mill at the Falls 
of the Neuse, and operated the same for the 
Manteo Manufacturing Company. In 1855, 
sickness compelling him to leave, he emi- 
grated to Mount Holly, Pa., and took charge 
of one of the two mills then at that place. 
After two years, on account of poor health, 
he removed to Sterretts Gap, Pa., where he 
leased a hotel and engaged in business. 
Three years later, in 1860, his health having 
been restored, he came to Harrisburg and 
was engaged \>y Jacob Zug to build a mill 
near Mount Holly, Pa. He completed and 
started the same, receiving a salary for his 
services; he also owned an interest in the 
enterprise. In 1861 he closed the mill on 
account of the disturbed condition of the 
country. 

When Fort Sumter was fired upon Mr. 
Mather enlisted in the Lochiel Grays and 
served three months. He re-enlisted in com- 
pany B, Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania volun- 
teers; was made first sergeant, and was pro- 
moted to adjutant of the regiment. He was 
in important battles, among which are Win- 
chester, Chancellorsville and other engage- 
ments. In December, 1863, he was trans- 
ferred to the Veteran Reserve corps, on ac- 
count of disability. He resigned in Novem- 
ber, 1865. Mr. Mather was military inspector 
of the hospital at Alexandria, Va., and after- 
wards came to Harrisburg, and was soon 
thereafter employed to take charge of a 
paper mill at West Newton, Pa., which posi- 
tion he held but a short time on account of 
ill health. 

In January, 1867, Mr. Mather went to 
Washington, D. C:, and became the business 
manager of the Evening Leader, a Republi- 
can paper. This position he held for one 
year and then went to Titusville, Pa., where 
he built a paper mill His health continu- 
ing to be poor, he was not active in business 
for the next twelve years. In 1883 he em- 
barked in the construction of furnaces, and 
has since gradually worked into mechanical 
engineering. 

Mr. Mather was elected to the city coun- 
cil in 1883 for three years. In 1887 he was 
made president of the water board ; was re- 
elected in 1890, and again chosen in 1893. 
He never solicited a single vote, his prefer- 
ment to office came unsolicited. He was 
one of tiie first who helped to organize the 
first Board of Trade, was secretary for two 



534 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



years and is a member of the present board. 
Mr. Mather is a Republican in politics, and 
was very active in party matters in 1868, 
during which he was secretary of the Re- 
publican Committee of Harrisburg. He is 
a member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. 
& A. M.; of the Grand Army of the Repub- 
lic, and a charter member of the Royal 
Arcanum. 

Edmund Mather was married in 1851 to 
Miss Jane Ann Parker, daughter of John 
Parker, of England. They have one living 
child, Sarah, who married J. W. Deeter, now 
of Mechanicsburg, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Mather 
have attended the Pine Street Presbyterian 
church since 1861. He is a life member of 
the Young Men's Christian Association, and 
has for several years been connected with 
the American Water Works Association. 



risburg, a slate roofer; Mary Emma, Mrs- 
George W. Clinton, Union, British Colum- 
bia; Albert, of Harrisburg, slate roofer; 
Harry H., clerk with W. H. Spooner. The 
family attend Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Towskn, James A., superintendent and 
treasurer of the Capital City Flint Company, 
was born in Lancaster, Pa., December 6, 
1829, son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Wheeler) 
Towsen, of Lancaster and York counties re- 
spectively. He was reared and educated in 
his native county, and learned the trade of 
slate roofing in 1847, at which he worked 
on sub-contracts in Lancaster county until 
1867, when he embarked in the business as 
a contractor at Harrisburg. He executed 
large contracts for the Pennsylvania steel 
works, the McCormick estate, Charles L. 
Bailey & Co., and the Pennsylvania Railway 
Company. Up to 1878 he was a member of 
the firm of Thomas Arnold & Co., at which 
date he purchased the interest of the firm. 
In February, 1895, he became connected 
with the Capital City Flint Company, and 
in June following was elected superintend- 
ent, and was made trustee of the company 
in December of the same year. During the 
war of the Rebellion he served with the State 
militia, and went into the field for three 
months as a member of company K, Forty- 
seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
under Colonel Wickersham, being first a cor- 
poral and afterwards cpiartermaster sergeant, 
In politics he is active as a member of the 
Republican party. Mr. Towsen was mar- 
ried, in 1850, to Maria Stauffer, daughter of 
Frank Stauffer, of Lancaster county, by 
whom he had eight children: Charles and 
Clare, both deceased; Thomas F., of Harris- 
burg, roofer; Martha, wife of Henry H. 
Spooner, of Harrisburg; William H, of Har- 



Hollinger, Eli, was born in Reading 
township, Adams county, Pa., June 20, 1830. 
He is a son of the late George and Elizabeth 
(Asper) Hollinger. His great-grandparents 
on his father's side were natives of Switzer- 
land ; on his mother's side they were Eng- 
lish. His grandparents were both natives 
of Lancaster county, and members of the 
Lutheran church. His grandfather was a 
Democrat in politics. At this grandfather's 
death there were sixty-two living grandchil- 
dren, nearly all of whom were at his funeral. 
George Hollinger, father of Eli Hollinger, 
was born in Adams county in 1799, and was 
a farmer nearly all his life. He was mar- 
ried, in 1826, to Elizabeth Asper, of Adams 
county, born in 1803. They had fifteen 
children, five of whom are living: George, 
Eli, Rebecca, Kate, wife of Jacob T. Smith, 
and Lydia, wife of John Miller. Their de- 
ceased children were: Michael, Leah, Jonas, 
Christian, Anna, Caroline, Jacob, killed in 
the war, and three who died in infancy. 
The father died aged seventj'-three and the 
mother aged seventy-six } f ears. Both were 
members of the Lutheran church. The 
father was first a Whig and afterwards be- 
came a Republican. 

Eli Hollinger received only a limited edu- 
cation in the public schools, but made up 
much of the deficiency by attendance upon 
night schools. He was a self-made man. 
His youth was spent on the farm. At nine- 
teen years of age he learned blacksmithing 
and followed this occupation for twenty-eight 
years. During one of these years he traveled 
with the stone masons. He worked at his 
trade at Abbotstown. In 1851 he was coach - 
smithing with Squire Palmer. In 1852 lie 
came to Harrisburg and worked at his trade 
in the car shops until they were closed. In 
1854 he traveled through some of the west- 
ern States and worked at his trade for some 
time in Chicago. During the next five years 
he worked at Alto na, Pa. On account of 
failing health he spent the next eighteen 
months at his old home in Adams county. 
In 1859 he was employed in Harrisburg by 
the Car Manufacturing Company for about 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



535 



six months. In the same year he began 
business for himself, manufacturing imple- 
ments and farming machinery. 

He was married, August 7, 1860, to Miss 
Meliuda, daughter of John and Hattie(Hoffer) 
Livingston, a native of Adams county. They 
had three children: Eleanor, wife of Arthur 
Lescure ; George B., married to Mrs. Miller, 
widow of Rev. Miller, residing in Baltimore, 
Md.; and Calvin Clinton, died July 9, 1862. 
Since 1860 Mr. Hollinger has been princi- 
pally engaged in the sale of agricultural im- 
plements, roof painting, and teaching music. 
He also taught in a public school for one 
term. In 1853 he joined Altoona Lodge, No. 
473, I. 0. 0. F. He was one of the charter 
members of Peace and Plenty Lodge, No. 69, 
when it was organized seven years ago, and he 
lias long since passed the chair in this lodge. 
During his connection with this lodge he has 
been an indefatigable worker. Past Grand 
Hollinger has had the pleasure of witnessing 
the initiation of sixty-seven members pro- 
posed by him. Seven of his nephews are 
Odd Fellows, George A., the present Past 
Grand, No. 69, being one of them. Mr. Hol- 
linger is also an active member of Susannah 
Rebecca Lodge. He was a charter member 
and has always kept up his membership of 
Harrisburg Encampment, No. 301. He has 
for years been a member of the Junior Order 
of United American Mechanics and has been 
an active representative of his council. In 
years past he was district deputy and during 
his term of office organized twenty-one flour- 
ishing councils within fourteen months. Dur- 
ing his official term he also instituted Eureka 
Council, Jr. O. U. A M., of this city. He is 
at present past sagamore of Octorara Tribe, 
No. 91, I. 0. R. M. 

In 1852 Mr. Hollinger cast his first vote 
for President of the United States. He voted 
for the Free Soil candidate, John P. Hale, of 
New Hampshire. Mr. Hale had only six 
votes in Harrisburg, of which Mr. Hol- 
linger's was one ; here is where he lost his 
first vote. He joined the Republican party 
and acted with it until 1873, when he be- 
came a Greenback-Republican. 

He is a faithful member of the Second 
Reformed church ; his departed wife also 
was a member of that church. Mrs. Hol- 
linger died September 2, 1865. Her parents 
were natives of York county, occupied in 
farming. They had seven children : Alex- 
ander; Matilda, wife of Christian Kauffman, 
deceased; Eleanor, wife of George Hollinger; 



Malinda, Mrs. Eli Hollinger; Leah, wife of 
Henry Brenneman, and Granville. Mr. and 
Mrs. Livingston were members of the Lu- 
theran church. 



Bay, J. G. Mc, a prominent and well- 
known business man, treasurer of the Bay 
Shoe Company, was born in Harford county, 
Md., October 27, 1831, and is a son of 
Thomas and Cenith Ann (McClure) Bay, 
who were natives of Maryland, both now 
deceased. 

His education was acquired in the pay 
schools of his native county, and after leav- 
ing school he became an apprentice to the 
blacksmith trade. In 1852 lie came to Har- 
risburg, where he learned the trade of iron 
moulding, and followed that business until 
1863. In that } r ear he and his brother, 
William F., engaged in the foundry and 
machine business under the firm name of 
William F. Bay & Bro., and this business 
was continued for five years. 

In 1868, in connection with his brother, 
William F., H. M. Kelley and James Mona- 
ghan, he engaged in the manufacture of 
shoes under the firm name of the Monaghan- 
Bay Shoe Company, the firm name being 
subsequently changed to the Bay Shoe Com- 
pany. 

Mr. Bay represented the Ninth ward in 
council two terms and is a Democrat in po- 
litical views. 

The parents of our subject had born to 
them a family of nine children, five of whom 
survive : William F., Sarah Jane, J. G. Mc, 
Mary M. and Thomas A. 

The shoe trade is one of the most import- 
ant industries in Harrisburg, and is well 
represented by the company of which Mr. 
Bay is the treasurer. Their factory is fitted 
up in modern style, well lighted and alto- 
gether attractive and conspicuous. The firm 
are quick to take advantage of all new styles 
and place them on the market as early as 
any manufactures in the State. The mem- 
bers of the firm are all enterprising business 
men, well and favorably known and very 
popular in the community. 



Richardson, John T., manager of the 
Anthracite Wagon Company, one of the 
leading industries of Harrisburg, is a son of 
Joseph and Eliza (Bryan) Richardson, na- 
tives of the State of Maryland, where they 
spent their entire lives. John was born at 



536 



Bl GRA PHI GAL ENGYGL OPEDIA 



Elkton, Md., May 2, 1832. He was educated 
in the private schools of his native town. 
Having completed his education, he learned 
the trade of blacksmith, and followed this 
occupation until 1876. This year he came 
to Harrisburg, and entered the employ of 
the Pennsylvania Steel Company, taking 
charge of the frog, switch and signal de- 
partment, and efficiently filled this position 
for eight years. 

In 1884 Mr. Richardson removed to Car- 
lisle, Pa., where he remained five years, in 
the employ of the Carlisle Manufacturing 
Company. At the end of this period he re- 
moved to Baltimore, Md., where he was en- 
gaged in business for two years. In 1893 
he returned to Harrisburg, and accepted 
the position he now holds — manager of the 
Anthracite Wagon Company. 

He was married, at Wilmington, Del., 
April 23, 1857, to Eliza McClure, daughter 
of James and Prudence McClure. Four 
children were born to them, two of whom 
are now living : Sarah J. and Mary E. Mr. 
Richardson served as member of the council 
at Wilmington, Del., for two years. In po- 
litical views he is a Republican. His family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Barnes, Jeremiah S., superintendent of 
the Harrisburg cemetery was born in York 
county, Pa., October 26, 1832, son of Josiah 
and Sarah (Sweitzer) Barnes, natives of York 
count}'. William Barnes, the grandfather, 
was also a native of York county and a car- 
pet weaver by trade. The maternal grand- 
father, Sweitzer, was a pensioner of the war 
of 1812. The father was a shoemaker. 
Both parents died in York county. Jeremiah 
S. is the eldest of eight children. He re- 
ceived only a limited education in the 
schools of that period, and for several years 
worked around among the farmers. He 
learned the carpenter's trade and afterwards 
went to Ohio and worked for two years. He 
returned to York county and in 1854 came 
to Harrisburg and worked as a journeyman 
at his trade until 1863, when he was elected 
by the board of managers, superintendent 
of the Harrisburg cemetery, which position 
he has filled for thirty-three years with the 
utmost satisfaction. His suggestions, ap- 
proved and adopted by the board, have re- 
sulted in the vast improvement of the ceme- 
tery, and he has put up many of the finest 
monuments in the grounds. He served in 
the State militia under Col. Henry McCor- 



mick, going to Hagerstown, Chambersburg, 
and on other expeditions. Mr. Barnes is 
prominently identified with the Masonic 
fraternity, holding membership in the Blue 
lodge, chapter, commandery and council. 
In political views he is a Republican, and is 
active in party measures. He has served as 
a member of the school board nine years. 
He was married, in 1858, to Miss Sarah 
Martha Williamson, daughter of Robert 
Williamson, native of England and resident 
of Harrisburg. They have six children, 
four of whom are living: Robert E., printer, 
lives at home; Carrie, deceased ; Charles W., 
at home, a musician ; Mary Elfieda, wife of 
E. H. Gotschall, of Harrisburg ; Laura May, 
deceased, and Harry Marcus, at home, with 
Montgomery & Co. Mr. Barnes is a mem- 
ber of the Grace Methodist Episcopal church, 
and holds the office of steward in the same. 



Chandler, William G., agent and super- 
intendent of the United Gas Improvement 
Co., Harrisburg works, was born at Harris- 
burg, Pa., November 19, 1832. His father, 
Jonathan Chandler, was born at Brandy- 
wine. Hundred, Newcastle county, Del., in 
the old homestead which has been occupied 
by the Chandler family for over two hundred 
years. His mother, Mary (Griffith) Chand- 
ler, was born at Gap, Chester county, Pa. 
They settled in Harrisburg at a very early 
date. His father was a blacksmith, and an 
agent for the Good Intent Packet Line; but 
in his later years he was engaged in the 
livery business. He was widely and favor- 
ab]y known, and was a highly respected cit- 
izen. He was twice married. Of the first 
marriage there were six children, of whom 
the only one surviving is William G. To 
the second marriage there were born four 
children, of whom Elizabeth, wife of David 
Wenrich, George, and Julia, wife of Charles 
Markell, still survive and reside in Harris- 
burg. 

In his youth William G. Chandler had 
the advantages of the public schools only. 
He worked at blacksmithingin his brother's 
shop for a time, but subsequently learned 
the trade of iron moulder. In 1852 he re- 
moved to Altoona, Pa., where he completed 
his term of apprenticeship at this business, 
and afterwards worked at his trade in the 
shops of the Pennsylvania railroad in that 
town for about two years. In 1856 he be- 
came a locomotive fireman, and followed this 
vocation for five years. From January, 



DAUP'HIN COUNTY. 



537 



1861, to January, 1862, he held the position 
of locomotive engineer on the Northern 
Central railroad between Marysville and 
Baltimore, Md. In January, 1862, he re- 
turned to the Pennsylvania railroad, and 
was employed as an engineer for five years. 
In 1867 he engaged in the wholesale and 
retail produce business in which he con- 
tinued until 1872, when he entered the em- 
ploy of the Harrisburg Gas Company; since 
September 1, 1864. he has held the position 
of superintendent of its works. This con- 
tinuous service of one company for twenty- 
three years, twelve of which were devoted 
to the management of its business, shows 
his business capacity and integrity, and the 
esteem in which he is held by those who 
know him best. He was appointed agent 
of the company May 1, 1896. 

Mr. Chandler was married at Harrisburg 
to Miss Henrietta Farver, of Bedford 
county. Three children were born to them, 
all of whom died in infancy. Mr. Chandler 
is a member of Mountain Lodge, No. 281, 
F. & A. M., of Altoona. In political prefer- 
ence he is a staunch Democrat. He attends 
the Presbvterian church. 



Forney, Henry J., treasurer of the Har- 
risburg Furnace and Boiler Company, was 
born in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa.. August 10, 1833. He is a son 
of the late Henry and Sarah (Cassel) For- 
ney. Both the Forney and Cassel families 
were very early settlers of Dauphin county, 
where they were honored tillers of the soil, 
spending their whole lives in the county, 
and all living to an advanced age. Mr. H. 
J. Forney's parents had a family of nine 
children, four of whom are living : Michael,; 
residing in Ida count}', Iowa ; Henry J. 
Susan, wife of Peter H. Miller, residing in 
Mifflin county, Pa., where he conducts an 
extensive farm and nursery ; Sarah, wife of 
Henry Booser, residing in Harrisburg. 
Henry J. Forney spent his boyhood in study 
and in work on the farm. His education 
was received in the common and select 
schools of Linglestown. This course com- 
pleted, he learned shoemaking. He subse- 
quently taught school for six terms in Dau- 
phin and Lebanon counties, after which he 
resumed work at his trade, and also opened 
a retail shoe store at Linglestown, Lower 
Paxton township. In 1861 he removed to 
Harrisburg, and purchased the business of 



Daniel Leedy, which he conducted for sev- 
eral years. Afterwards, in connection with 
his brother, James C, he engaged in the 
manufacture of boots and shoes, and later 
carried on a general jobbing business in this 
line. In 1892 Mr. Forney sold his interest 
in the wholesale jobbing trade to his 
nephews, C. C. and C. Harvey Forney, who 
still couduct the business, and who are. re- 
ferred to on another page of this volume. 
Mr. Forney is also a stockholder in the 
Harrisburg Boot and Shoe Company; a di- 
rector, and the treasurer, of the Harrisburg 
Boiler Company, and an extensive dealer in 
real estate. He is one of the prominent and 
progressive business men of the city, and is 
honored and esteemed in all circles. Mr. 
Forney is a past officer in Lamberton Lodge, 
I. 0. 0. F.; of the Order United American 
Mechanics, Post No. 35, and of the Mystic 
Chain of St. John Castle. He is not active 
in any at present. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, June 20, 
1861, to Lydia, daughter of David and Bar- 
bara Walmer, of Linglestown. Their union 
has been blessed with five children : Charles 
M., of the firm of Forney & Knouse, a 
prominent drug firm, referred to in another 
part of this volume; Margaret C, wife of 
M. L. Ludwig, residing at Penbrook, Sus- 
quehanna township ; Sarah E., wife of D. 
M. Beck, residing in Harrisburg ; Rebecca 
I. ; and Henry, the youngest member of the 
family, who was killed by falling from a 
tree, at Linglestown. Mr. Forney repre- 
sented the Ninth ward in the common coun- 
cil for many years. He was also one of the 
first members of the select council. He is 
not at present a member of any secret so- 
ciety, although he has held many important 
offices in several orders. In political views 
he is a good, conscientious Republican. 
Himself and family are members of the 
Church of God. He became connected with 
the church in Harrisburg in 1861, and 
served as deacon and elder for many years. 
In 1877 he moved to Penbrook, and took 
his certificate of membership from the 
Fourth Street Church of God, and joined 
the church at Progress, where he held the 
office of elder. He is president of the Dau- 
phin circuit, composed of elders and deacons 
of four churches, and also president of the 
Progress church council. For several years 
he was a delegate from the East Pennsyl- 
vania Eldership to the General Eldership of 
the Church of God. 



538 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Sieber, Charles F., proprietor of the Har- 
risburg Soap Factory, was born in Wurtem- 
berg, German}-, December 10, 1834. He is 
a son of Christian and Barbara Sieber, who 
spent their lives and died in Germany. He 
received his education and learned the soap 
and candle making trade in Germany. In 
1854 he came to this country and located 
at Lancaster, Pa., where he entered the em- 
ployment of his step-brother, Herman Mul- 
ler. He remained with him till 1860, when 
he returned to his native land on a visit to 
his friends and relatives. In 1862 he located 
in Harrisburg, and has since been continu- 
ously engaged in business in this city. 

He was married at Lancaster, Pa., Octo- 
ber 1, 1861, to Mary Elizabeth Bissinger, a 
native of Germany. To them have been born 
ten children, seven of whom are living, 
namely: Mary, Elizabeth, Louisa, wife of 
Hummel K. Maeyer, residing in Harrisburg; 
Emily, wife of W. D. Harris, residing in Har- 
risburg; Bertha, Frederick G, and Lillie. 

Mr. Sieber is a member of Peace and 
Plenty Lodge, No. 69, I. 0. 0. F.; Harrisburg 
Encampment, No. 301, 1. O. O. F.; and Corn- 
planter Tribe, No. 61, I. 0. R. M. In politi- 
cal views he is a Democrat. The family at- 
tend the Lutheran church. As man, mer- 
chant and citizen, Mr. Sieber ranks with the 
first. 



McLaughlin, James T. W., pattern and 
model maker, was born in Little Britain 
township, Lancaster county, Pa., June 1, 
1839. He is a son of Park S. and Sarah 
(Gorsuch) McLaughlin, natives of Lancaster 
county, where they have passed their whole 
lives. Park S. McLaughlin was a mill- 
wright, but has now retired from active 
business. Both parents are dead, the father 
aged eighty-five, the mother eighty-two 
years. The}' had eight children : James T. 
W.; William G., killed by a fall in Philadel- 
phia in 1888 ; Mary, wife of Dr. J. P. Miller, 
Oxford, Chester county, Pa.; Theodore, Little 
Britain, Pa.; Hannah, wife of George Day, 
Little Britain ; J. Fletcher, Little Britain ; 
Frank and Laura, who died in infancy. 

James T. W. McLaughlin was educated in 
the public schools and at Chestnut Level 
Academ}'. He learned the millwright trade 
with his father, and followed it for about ten 
years. He removed to Baltimore, Md., in 
1864, and was a bookkeeper there until 
1873 ; he then came to Harrisburg, where 
he has since been a continuous resident. 



His first engagement here was with the Har- 
risburg Car Company and the Foundry and 
Machine Works; later he was with the Jack- 
son Manufacturing Company. Since 1884 
he has been in business for himself. He 
was married in Delta, York county, Pa., Sep- 
tember, 1869, to Adeline, daughter of Archi- 
bald A. and Nancy Hawkins, of Delta, Pa. 
They have no children. Mr. McLaughlin 
was school director for six years. He is sec- 
retary of the Commonwealth Building and 
Loan Association, deputy supreme archon, 
Improved Order of Heptasophs ; secretary of 
Harrisburg Conclave, No. 42, I. 0. H., for 
the past eighteen years. He is a member of 
Veteran Castle, K. of G. E., No. 495, and has 
been master of records in this body since its 
organization. His political views are Demo- 
cratic. He and his wife are members of 
Ridge Avenue Methodist Episcopal church. 



Adams, Thomas, superintendent of the 
Harrisburg Heat and Power Company, was 
born in London, England, January 6, 1840. 
He is a son of John and Margaret (Griffin) 
Adams. His education was well begun in 
his native land. In 1856 he left England 
and came to America, locating in New York 
where he completed his education. He 
learned the trade of marine engineer and 
followed this occupation for ten years. At 
the expiration of this period he removed to 
Lockport, N. Y., where he was connected 
with the Holly Manufacturing Company 
until 1877, at which date he resigned his 
position with this company and accepted a 
similar position with the Holly Steam Heat- 
ing Company, which position he filled for 
twelve years. In 1889 he removed to Har- 
risburg and assumed the position he now so 
efficiently fills. He was married at Lock- 
port, N. Y., to Edle Smith, daughter of 
Charles and Olivia Smith. Five children 
have been born to them : William Thomas, 
residing at Auburn, N. Y.; Charles J., Edna 
L., Cora A. and Mattie D. He is a member 
of Auburn Lodge, No. 431, F. & A. M. ; of 
David Chapter, R. A. M.; of Royal Arcanum, 
No. 407, of Auburn, N. Y. In political 
views he is a staunch Republican. He at- 
tends the Episcopal church. 



Armpriester, George W., superintendent 
of the Central Rolling Mills, Harrisburg, was 
born in Union township, Berks county, Feb- 
ruary 22, 1840. Samuel Armpriester, his 
father, was of German ancestry, and Anna 





rjr^ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



541 



(Flaver) Armpriester, his mother, of French 
ancestry. They had eight children born to 
them, four of whom are living: Melinda, 
widow of the late Daniel T. Knabb, residing 
at Birdsborough, Montgomery county, Pa.; 
Amelia E., wife of Alfred Fable, residing in 
Philadelphia; Lynes G, residing at Potts- 
town, Pa., and George W. The last named 
was reared a farmer boy and got his school- 
ing in the old log school house. He con- 
tinued at farm work till 1860, when he 
learned the trade of puddler and was also a 
part of the time in the employment of the 
Government, engaged in the transportation 
of grain and hay to Alexandria and other 
points. In 1872 he removed to Bethel, Pa., 
where he again engaged in the occupation of 
puddling until 1865, when he removed to 
Pottstown and took charge of the puddling 
mills of the Pottstown Iron Company and 
efficiently filled the position till 1873. He 
then took a similar position with the Glas- 
gow Iron Company and remained in it until 
1879, at which date he engaged in the 
grocery business at Pottstown, in which he 
continued for nine months. He then sold 
out and removed to Harrisburg and has been 
a continuous resident here since, faithfully 
and efficiently performing the duties of su- 
perintendent of the old Central rolling mills. 
He was married at Douglassville, Berks 
county, Pa., to Amelia M. DeHart, daughter 
of John and Catherine DeHart. Of a family 
of seven children born to them five are liv- 
ing and are : Mary G, widow of George W. 
Sourbeer, George Warren, Annie A., wife of 
H. L. Stohl, Barton A. and S. Raymond, all 
residents of Harrisburg. 

Mr. Armpriester has served as a member 
of the school board of Pottstown and has 
represented the Fifth ward of Harrisburg in 
the common council for two terms. He is 
an active member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M.; Perseverance Chapter, 
No. 21, R. A. M.; Pilgrim Commandery, 
No. 11, K. T.; Monocacy Lodge, No. 441, 
I. 0. 0. F.; Star Encampment, No. 139 ; Naz- 
areth Commandery, No. 125, A. and I. 0. K. 
of M. In politics he is a Republican. The 
family attend the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



the father of German and the mother of 
English ancestry, though the grandfather 
was a native of Pennsylvania. They resided 
in Lancaster county until 1861, then removed 
to Cumberland county, and for the past 
twenty-eight years have lived in Lebanon 
cit} r , Pa. John B. was reared in his native 
county and received his education in the 
subscription schools of that time. In 1861 
he removed with his parents to Cumberland 
county, and was engaged in farming until 
1864, when he enlisted in company G, One 
Hundred and Fiftieth regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, known as " The Bucktails," 
in which he served until he received a gun- 
shot wound, February 4, 1865, and was re- 
moved to Jarvis Hill Hospital at Baltimore, 
where he was confined until the war closed. 
He was discharged when sufficiently recov- 
ered to travel, and returned to Cumberland 
county, where he subsequently removed to 
Franklin county and engaged in merchan- 
dising for one year four miles north of Ship- 
pensburg. He then sold his business and was 
for the next year engaged in the same line 
at Lebanon, Pa., after which, in 1870, he re- 
moved to Harrisburg, and on June 29, 1871, 
settled at Steelton, since which date he has 
been a continuous resident of the place, and 
for sixteen and a half 3'ears of this time he 
has been one of the most prominent and 
prosperous business men of the place. In 
September, 1895, he engaged in his present 
business. Mr. Litch has also for twelve years 
been a partner of Mr. C. G. Smith in the 
leaf tobacco business. He was married in 
Mifflin township, Cumberland county, to 
Miss Elizabeth E. Rynard, daughter of S. A. 
and Susanna Rynard, of Mifflin township, 
both deceased. They have nine children, 
five of whom are living : Mary S., wife of 
J. H. Bondman ; John E., Milton B., Ellen 
C, and Alwieda. Their deceased children 
are : George M., died at the age of twenty-six 
years, Harry F., died at the age of thirteen 
years, Willis, and William C. In his polit- 
ical views Mr. Litch is a Democrat. He held 
the office of burgess of Steelton for two years, 
and was also the organizer of the Steelton 
Fire Company. He attends the Lutheran 
church. 



Litch, John B., treasurer of the Smith 
Noodle Company, was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., August 22, 1842, and is the only 
child of Jacob and Susanna (Brunner) Litch. 
Both parents are natives of Lancaster county, 
37 



Cowden, Frederick H., proprietor of the 
Harrisburg stoneware pottery, was born at 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, Pa., Novem- 
ber 23, 1843. Mr. Cowden belongs to an 
old and honored family, and is the fifth 



542 



Bl OGRA PHTCAL ENCYCL PEDIA 



generation in his line of descent in this 
county. The original ancestor of the family 
in America is Matthew Cowden, who came 
from the north of Ireland, and settled in 
Chester county, Pa,, about 1730, and moved 
to Dauphin (then Lancaster) county in 1746, 
where he resided until his death. His son 
was Col. James Cowden, who commanded a 
company in the Revolutionary army. After 
the close of the Revolutionary war, he lived 
in Lower Paxton township, and was en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits until his 
death, which occurred in 1S10. Matthew 
B. Cowden, son of Col. James Cowden, above 
mentioned, and grandfather of Frederick H., 
was a prominent farmer in Lower Paxton 
township, and at one time served as associate 
judge of the county. He was a soldier in 
the war of 1812, and died in Lower Paxton 
township in 1862. John W. Cowden, father 
of Frederick H., followed farming in his 
early life, and qualified himself for the busi- 
ness of surveying. In 1857 he became a 
resident of Harrisburg, and shorthy after- 
wards was appointed assistant city engineer. 
In connection with Hother Hage and Alex- 
ander Hamilton, he laid out the city of 
Harrisburg. About 1859 he was appointed 
city surveyor, and honorably filled the office 
until his death, in 1872. Mr. and Mrs. 
John W. Cowden had nine children, of 
whom seven are living : Margaret, wife of 
Samuel Hamilton, of Beaver, Pa.; Frederick 
H; Sarah, wife of Homer H. Cummings, of 
Harrisburg; Elizabeth B., wife of M. R. 
Beck, of Beverly, N. J.; Matthew B., city 
engineer ; Ellen J., wife of Stephen Hubertis, 
of Harrisburg; and Josephine W. His 
wife, Mary E. (Hatton) Cowden, died in May, 
1872. 

When Frederick H. Cowden was two 
years old, his parents removed to a farm 
about three miles from Linglestown, where 
he received his primary education. At 
thirteen years of age he removed with his 
parents to Harrisburg, and completed his 
education in the city schools. He learned 
the pottery trade, and with the exception of 
one year spent in the army during the late 
war, he has been continuously engaged in 
this business for thirty-four years. In 1867 
he became partner in this business with his 
father and Isaac J. Wilcox. Since 1881 he 
has conducted the business solely in his own 
interest. He has made the Harrisburg pot- 
tery a successful manufacturing establish- 



ment and Harrisburg stoneware justly cele- 
brated throughout Central Pennsylvania. 

Mr. Cowden was married at Chanceford, 
York county, Pa., Dec. 1, 1869, to Miss Sarah 
Elizabeth Reed, daughter of Samuel N. and 
Sarah J. Reed, of Chanceford. They have 
four children, John W., Florence, Mabel 
Barnett and Frederick H, all residing in 
Harrisburg. Mr. Cowden represented the 
Fourth ward one term as school director. In 
1864 he enlisted in company C, Two Hun- 
dred and First Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served one year, being honorably dis- 
charged at the close of the war. He is a 
member of Post 58, G. A. R. He and his 
family attend the Pine Street Presbyterian 
church. 



Wilson, William G., proprietor of the 
Harrisburg Cornice Works and of Maple 
Grove Hotel, was born in Coatesville, Chester 
county, Pa., January 17, 1847. He is a son 
of William and Sophia (Stackhouse) Wilson, 
both natives of Chester county. He was 
educated in the public schools of Coatesville. 
In 1862 he enlisted in the One Hundred and 
Twenty-fourth Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
was assigned to company A. He served in 
this regiment one year during the late Re- 
bellion. After he was discharged he re- 
turned to Coatesville, and finished his edu- 
cation in the academy of that place. He 
learned telegraphy and was employed by 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company in 
various positions and offices until 1890. He 
came to Harrisburg in 1865. After leaving 
the service of the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company in 1890, he went to South Jersey 
and became superintendent of the Philadel- 
phia and Sea Shore railroad for a short time. 
He then returned to Harrisburg for one 
year. In 1892 he went to Shenandoah, Va., 
where he was chief clerk of the Shenandoah 
division, Norfolk and Western railroad. At 
the close of the year, he resigned and went 
to. New Jersey, and was superintendent of 
South Jersey railroad from 1893 till May, 
1894, when he resigned and returned to Har- 
risburg and engaged in his present occupa- 
tion. 

He was married in Harrisburg, October 
14, 1875, to La Rue V. Grove, daughter of 
Michael M. and Charlotte S. Grove. Three 
children have been born to them : Nellie La 
Rue, died at the age of fourteen months; 
Alvah B., and William Grove. Mr. Wilson 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



543 



was elected treasurer of the Pennsylvania 
Midland railroad in 1894. He was the Re- 
publican candidate for mayor of Harrisburg 
in 1890, against Dr. John A. Fritchey, but 
was defeated. He is a member of the Hepta- 
sophs and of the Junior Order of American 
Mechanics. In politics he is a Republican. 
The family attend the Zion Lutheran church. 



Pugh, A. Judson, senior member of the 
firm of A. J. Pugh & Son (The Dauphin 
Roofing Company), was born in Radnor 
township, Delaware county, Pa., February 
27, 1847"; son of the late William and Mary 
(Pugh) Pugh. The Pugh family on both 
sides were among the early settlers of Dela- 
ware county, their ancestors having been 
born there as far back as the fourth genera- 
tion preceding the present. The parents 
were residents of Radnor township, and the 
father conducted a merchant tailoring busi- 
ness there. They had nine children, five of 
whom are living: Joanna H, widow of late 
J. Hibbert Hall, of Plymouth, Montgomery 
county ; John, Nelson, Roland, Jr., and A. 
Judson. A.J. spent his early life in Radnor 
and received his education in the public 
schools of that township. In 1876 he re- 
moved to Harrisburg and for fifteen years 
was in the service of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, during ten years of which 
time he was engineer on a freight train. In 
1881 he became bookkeeper for the Paxton 
Flouring Mill Company, which position he 
held for ten years, after which, from 1891 to 
1894 he was in the employment of the Mer- 
chants' National Bank, and in November of 
the last named year embarked in his present 
business. Mr. Pugh was married in Phila- 
delphia, April 10, 1873, to Eloise G. Denney, 
daughter of Jacob and Sarah Denney, of 
Chester county, both deceased. To this mar- 
riage have been born four children : M. 
Elva, William E., Salinda and J. Darling- 
ton. In his politics Mr. Pugh is a Republi- 
can. He and his family attend the Baptist 
church. 



Brinton, Harry A., general manager of 
the Universal Baking Powder Company, was 
born in Dauphin county, about six miles 
from Harrisburg, April 13, 1847, son of 
Caleb and Sarah (Alleman) Brinton, the 
former a native of Chester, the latter of Dau- 
phin county. The father came to Dauphin 
county about 1835, and was for ten years 
engaged in the manufacture of coffee mills, 



ladles, door locks, and jack screws in West 
Hanover township, after which he was a 
farmer in Susquehanna township eight 
years, and then removed to Swatara town- 
ship and farmed eight years more. From 
there he went to Cumberland county, where 
he lived eleven years, and in 1866 came to 
Harrisburg and resided here seven years. 
He next moved to New Cumberland, where 
he remained four years, and then returned 
to Harrisburg. where he has lived retired 
from active business for the past twenty-five 
years, and at the age of eighty-six years is 
still in the enjoyment of good health. His 
wife died in 1860. Their children are: Mar- 
tin, farmer in Cumberland county ; John, of 
Susquehanna township; Lydia E., wife of 
Peter Hershey, Harrisburg; George, of Har- 
risburg; Caleb, residing in Idaho; Harry 
A.; Susan, wife of J. D. Sprout, died in Jan- 
uary, 1885 ; Elizabeth, wife T. W. Jones, of 
Cornell, 111., died October 26, 1895; and 
David, died in infancy. 

Harry A. was about seven years old when 
he with his parents located between Fair- 
view and Bridgeport, where he received his 
education in the public schools. He was 
engaged in farming for twelve years, and 
subsequently became an engineer and 
worked for ten years at this occupation in 
Harrisburg, after which he was for fifteen 
years engaged in mercantile pursuits, and in 
August, 1894, became a stockholder and was 
elected the general manager of the Universal 
Baking Powder Company. Mr. Brinton was 
married in Harrisburg in 1871 to Maiw J. 
Shaeffer, daughter of John and Mary Shaef- 
fer, natives of Lancaster county, to whom 
have been born ten children, of whom five 
died in infancy, and the survivors are: John 
C, Mary P., George W., Charles L., and 
Helen J. Mr. Brinton-is a member of Dau- 
phin Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. O. F., and of the 
Knights and Ladies of Honor. In his politi- 
cal views he is a Republican. The family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Bacon, Daniel, was one of the most 
widely known manufacturers and one of the 
most popular men in Central Pennsylvania. 
He was born June 26, 1847, and died sud- 
denly of heart failure April 22, 1893. He 
removed from Scranton to Harrisburg in 
1869, and shortly afterwards engaged in the 
manufacture and sale of candy near the site 
of his present factory. His business pros- 
pered from the start, and needed enlarged 



544 



BIO GRA PHI GAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



facilities, which he provided from time to 
time. For the past fifteen years he had oc- 
cupied the factory and store where his 
career terminated, which is one of the best 
equipped and arranged plants of its kind in 
this part of the State. The marked business 
traits of Mr. Bacon were his enterprise and 
ingenuity in forming his plans and his 
energy and courage in carrying them out. 
When confronted with disaster and threat- 
ened with defeat, as he was at three separate 
times when burned out, he lost no time in 
useless regrets, but at once employed the 
occasion to alter and always enlarge bis 
plans, and at once addressed himself with 
redoubled energy and industry to their exe- 
cution. Mr. Bacon was generous and whole- 
souled on the social side of his nature, 
and his cheerful and mirthful disposition 
spread sunshine all around him. One of 
his very marked characteristics was his 
liking for the commercial travelers, which 
amounted to a ruling sentiment and almost 
a passion. It was said he never let one 
leave his place of business without giving 
him an order and making him feel that he 
was with a friend, and all were made wel- 
come as honored guests at his hospitable 
home. Mr. Bacon sustained membership in 
the Harrisburg Board of Trade ; Dauphin 
Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. 0. P.; East Harrisburg 
Conclave, No. 150, I. 0. H., and the National 
Confectioners' Association. Mr. Bacon was 
married to Annie Clark, a native of Scran- 
ton, by whom he had one son, Arthur D. 
This son received all the advantages of edu- 
cation afforded by the city schools, and sub- 
sequently pursued a classical course of study 
at Pennsylvania College at Gettysburg, Pa., 
upon the completion of which he entered his 
father's store. He had just reached his ma- 
jority when the untimely and sudden death 
of his father occurred, and he was put in 
charge of the large business built up by the 
ability and success of his honored parent. 
His mother preferred that he should assume 
the management and become responsible for 
the continuance of the business, feeling well 
assured that her worthy son had inherited 
the business talents and sterling character 
of her lamented husband. In this hope she 
has not been disappointed. His successful 
management of the business of D. Bacon & 
Co., wholesale dealers and manufacturers of 
confectioneries, is marked, and he is justly 
regarded as oneof the most enterprising and 
progressive business men of the city. Mr. 



Bacon was married in Harrisburg January 
2, 1894, to Miss Barbara Baldwin, of this 
city. He is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M.; Pilgrim Com- 
inandery, No. 11 ; Perseverance Chapter, 
No. 21, R. A. M.; Rajah Temple; Mystic 
Shrine, of Reading, and Scottish Rite Mason, 
thirty-second degree. 



Young, John G., general manager of the 
Harrisburg Branch of the Deering Har- 
vester Company, of Chicago, was born in 
Evansville, Ind., December 4, 1847. He is 
a son of Richard and Susan (Hill) Young. 
His father is a native of Philadelphia and 
his mother was born near wensborough , Ky. 
They removed to Indiana, where they spent 
the remainder of their lives. The father 
was a prominent business man of Cynthiana, 
Posey county, Ind., for many years, where he 
first engaged in the retail boot and shoe busi- 
ness and later in the retail hardware and 
grocery business. He died in 1893 and his 
wife died when John G. was but an infant. 
Of a family of six children born to them 
John G. is the only survivor. When but a 
child he removed with his parents to Cynthi- 
ana, Ind., where he spent his boyhood days, 
receiving his education in the public and 
select schools of that town. After complet- 
ing his education he assumed the duties of 
deputy treasurer of the county, and when 
but twenty-one years of age was elected treas- 
urer of Posey county, which office he filled 
with acceptance for two years. After retiring 
from office he engaged in the hardware busi- 
ness in Mt. Vernon, Ind., in connection with 
Mr. V. C. Finch, under the firm name of V. 
C. Finch & Co., for four j^ears, after which he 
removed to Cynthiana, Ind., and became a 
partner in the hardware business of his 
father, under the firm name of R. Young & 
Son, in which partnership he continued for 
two years. He subsequently became ac- 
countant for H. Brinkinan & Sons, of Mt. 
Vernon, Ind., and was connected with that 
firm for one year. At the expiration of this 
time he became connected with the Deering 
Harvester Company in the capacity of book- 
keeper in one of their branch warehouses at 
Indianapolis, Ind., for a period of two years. 
For the following fifteen months he served 
this company faithfully as manager of their 
branch house in Philadelphia. October 6, 
1887, he was appointed to the responsible 
position he now holds, as manager of their 
business in Harrisburg. He has been a 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



545 



faithful emplo3 r ee of the Deering Harvester 
Company for a period of twelve years. For 
seven years he has been an honored and re- 
spected resident of Harrisburg, where his 
strict integrity and honorable business meth- 
ods have established him in the confidence 
of his employers and the esteem of all who 
meet him in business and social circles. He 
was married in Mt. Vernon, Ind., May 25, 
1873, to Fannie Fuhrer, a daughter of Mau- 
rice and Angeline (Berne) Fuhrer, the former 
a native of Berne, Switzerland, the latter of 
Posey county, Ind. To them have been born 
four children. Three of these died in in- 
fancy; their only surviving child is Angelyn 
Nelson. While filling the office of deputy 
treasurer he also performed the duties per- 
taining to the office of county auditor. He 
is a member in good standing of Mount 
Vernon Lodge, No. 163, F. & A. M., of Mt. 
Vernon ; Lavalette Commandery, of Evans- 
ville, Ind., K. T. In political views he is a 
Democrat. He attends the Presbyterian 
church. 



Moeslein, Edward, manager of the Cap- 
ital City Shoe Manufacturing Company, was 
born in Eckweisbach, Germany, January 24, 
1849. He is a son of David and Cecilia 
(Niebeling) Moeslein, both of Germany. His 
boyhood and youth were spent in his native 
land. He received his education in the pub- 
lic schools, after which he was apprenticed 
for five years to learn carpentry and build- 
ing. After his apprenticeship was over he 
worked at his trade as a journeyman until 
1870. He was drafted into the German 
army, and served his country faithfully for 
two 3'ears in the Franco-Prussian war, dur- 
which time he, with his regiment, partici- 
pated in seventeen engagements. He was 
present at the battle of Sedan, where Louis 
Napoleon was made a prisoner. After his 
discharge from the army at the close of the 
war, he continued to work at his trade in his 
native land for a year and a half. In 1874 
he embarked for America and landed at New 
York. He came at once to Harrisburg and 
since June 1, 1874, has been a continuous 
resident of this city. The first eight years in 
Harrisburg he spent at his trade, in connec- 
tion with the building of St. Lawrence 
Roman Catholic Church. In 1882 he began 
contracting and building on his own account 
and continued this business until August, 
1895. At this date he engaged in the man- 
ufacture of children's shoes in connection 



with Joseph Youngel. On January 6, 1896, 
a stock company was formed and Mr. Moes- 
lein was appointed to his present position as 
manager. 

Edward Moeslein was married in Hannau, 
Germany, January 21, 1872, to Martina 
Bittner. They have had five children, three 
living: William E., Adam, and Charles. 

He is a member of Peace and Plenty Lodge 
No. 69, I. 0. 0. F.; Herman Castle, No. 339, 
K. of G. E.; and K. of M. C, No. 17. He is 
president ot the American and the Union 
Building and Loan associations, assistant 
secretaiy of the Columbia and the Harris- 
burg Building and Loan associations, direc- 
tor in the West Harrisburg Building and 
Loan Association and a member of the Board 
of Trade. Mr. Moeslein and his family at- 
tend St. Lawrence's Roman Catholic church. 



Nagle, John H, assistant foreman in the 
Hickok Manufacturing Company, was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa., May 11, 1851. He 
is a son of Emanuel and Sarah (Markley) 
Nagle. A sketch of his parents and grand- 
parents appears elsewhere in this volume. 
He received his education in the public 
schools of Lancaster county. Before the age 
of fourteen he had been in various occu- 
pations. At that time his parents removed 
from Bainbridge to Collin's Station, Lan- 
caster county. During the year 1865 he was 
employed as water boy, carrying water and 
tools for the " floating gang " on the rail- 
road. In 1866 his parents removed to Mid- 
dletown, Pa., where heifound^employment 
on the railroad during the summer months, 
and attended school in the winter. For two 
sessions he was in the high school. On 
April 5, 1869, he began an apprenticeship at 
the trade of machinist with William 0. 
Hickok, and served three years and one 
month ; he was then twenty-one years old. 
From that time until 1875 he worked as 
a journeyman machinist. In order to be- 
come more familiar with machinery and 
more skillful in its use, he spent four years 
as fireman on the Pennsylvania railroad, 
Middle division, between Harrisburg and 
Allentown, Pa. In 1879 he returned to 
Harrisburg and resumed work at his trade 
with his former employer, Mr. Hickok. In 
1891 he was promoted to assistant foreman 
of the Hickok Company's shop, the position 
which he now holds. 

In 1888 Mr. Nagle was elected to the com- 
mon council from the Sixth ward of Harris- 



546 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



burg and served one term. He is an active 
member of the Knights of the Mystic Chain, 
No. 17 ; he has gone through all the chairs, 
and been connected with the order for eigh- 
teen years. He has also, for about five years, 
been a member of the Knights of Honor. 
In political views he is a Democrat. He is 
a member of the Lutheran church. 

Mr. Nagle has been twice married. His 
first wife was Miss Jennie Feltz. Her father, 
John Feltz, was born in Dauphin county. 
When a young man he was a farmer, but 
later he learned shoemaking at which he 
worked for many years. For the past four- 
teen years he has been partially paralyzed 
and is comparatively helpless. He is at 
present proprietor of a boarding-house in 
Harrisburg. He is a Republican, and a 
member of the Lutheran church. He was 
married to Miss Leah Wagner. They had 
two daughters: Kate, wife of James Lusk, 
and Jennie, deceased. Mrs. Nagle belonged 
to the Lutheran church. She died, May 6, 
1892, aged thirty-seven ; she left three chil- 
dren, two of whom are living: Lillie, wife of 
John H.Forney, and John E. Leah E. died 
January 19, 1896, aged nineteen years and 
nine days. 

Mr. Nagle's second marriage occurred Oc- 
tober 18, 1894. He was then united to Mrs. 
Minnie Rhoads, widow of Levi Meyers, and 
daughter of George and Sarah (Glosser) 
Rhoads. They had one son, Chester L. 
George Rhoads was born in Perry county, 
Pa. He was employed by the railroad com- 
pany in various capacities for forty-five 
years and finally retired on account of fail- 
ing health. His wife was born in Perry 
county, Pa., and was a daughter of Conrad 
and Charlotta Glosser. They had fourteen 
children, eleven of whom are living: Mary, 
wife of Jacob Shellenberger ; Minnie, wife of 
JohnH. Nagle; Emma, wife of John Shellen- 
hammer; Edward; Frederick ; George ; Lot- 
tie, wife of John Thompson; Charles; Ben- 
nie ; Nelson and Virginia. James was 
killed on the railroad at the age of twenty- 
two. Willie and Tillie died in infancy. Mr. 
Rhoads was a Democrat. He was a member 
of the Lutheran church. 

The grandparents of the second Mrs. 
Nagle were both natives of Lancaster county. 
Her grandfather was employed on the rail- 
road and was killed in an accident. He had 
five children, three of whom are living: 
Cvrus, Joseph and George. The grandfather 
died in March, 1891. 



Landis, Henry B., superintendent of Har- 
risburg Traction Company's supply store, 
was bom at Mexico, Juniata county, Pa., 
November 5, 1851. He is the only child of 
John and Anna (Baker) Landis. His parents 
are both natives cf Juniata county, and both 
are living at Mexico. The father was en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits, and for many 
years was a minister in the United Brethren 
church, but now lives retired. Henry's boy- 
hood days were spent in his native town, 
where he took the usual course of study in 
the public schools. He studied telegraphy, 
and followed this occupation for several 
years. For the three following years he was 
engaged as brakeman on the Pennsylvania 
railroad. The following year he was em- 
ployed by the Prudential Life Insurance 
Company as bookkeeper in their receiving 
office at Mexico. In the next year he re- 
moved to Harrisburg, and has been con- 
nected with the Citizens' Street Railway 
Company and Harrisburg Traction Com- 
pany since its inauguration. He is the oldest 
employee of the company. 

He was married in Mifflin township, Juni- 
ata county, July 19, 1874, to Miss Minerva 
P. Smith, daughter of George and Eliza 
(Miller) Smith. Five children have been 
born to them, of whom one died in infancy. 
Those living are : John H, George S., Led- 
yard A., and Annie. 

Mr. Landis is not connected with any 
societies. He attends the United Brethren 
church. By the faithful discharge of his 
duties he has gained the utmost confidence 
of his employers, and by his honorable and 
upright life commands the respect and re- 
gard of his fellow-men. 



Weber, William, foreman and manager 
of the iron and brass foundry of James W. 
Roberts, was born at Waterloo, Bavaria, Ger- 
many, April 9, 1853. He is the son of 
George Adam and Eve (Brickner) Weber, 
both natives of Bavaria, but residents of 
Harrisburg for forty years. These parepts 
had six children, four of whom survive: 
William ; George, residing at Sparrow's 
Point, Md.; Mary, wife of Augustus Kreid- 
ler, and Andrew. 

William Weber came to Harrisburg with 
his parents, in 1855, when he was but 
eighteen months old. He received a partial 
education in the public schools of this city. 
In early youth he took up the trade of car- 
penter, working at it only a short time, as 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



547 



he found it not to his taste. He learned 
the moulders' trade, and has followed it for 
twenty-five years. Mr. Weber is highly re- 
garded in business circles for his enterprise, 
perseverance and sterling integrity. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, March 6, 
1886, to Mary Wohleben, daughter of Henry 
and Regina Wohleben, both natives of Ger- 
many, but residents of Harrisburg. They 
have two children: William Henry, born 
April 7, 1889, and Elizabeth, born July 5, 
1890. In political views Mr. Weber is a 
Democrat. 



Shields, James D., manufacturer and 
dealer in proprietary medicines, was born in 
Fayette township, Juniata county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 21, 1853 ; son of Charles and Sarah 
(Myers) Shields, both natives of Juniata 
county and of Irish ancestry. The father 
died in 1863, aged sixty-five years. The 
mother is still living at the advanced age of 
eighty-one years, and resides at McAllisters- 
ville. Juniata county. They had eleven 
children. James D. was reared on the farm 
in Juniata county and attended the public 
schools and Port Royal Academy. He began 
his business life as a salesman and was en- 
gaged in various occupations in his native 
county until 1878, when he removed to 
Harrisburg, where he was for ten years en- 
gaged in the sale of sewing machines, and 
in 1889 embarked in his present business. 
He was married at Lancaster city, September 
17, 1884, to Alice E. Lipp, daughter of Heniy 
G. and Margaret Lipp, of Lancaster. They 
have no children. In his political views, 
Mr. Shields is a Democrat. 



Rhoads,. James M., was born at Harris- 
burg, December 7, 1854. His father, Daniel 
Rhoads, was a well-known and honored resi- 
dent of Dauphin county. He held several 
important civil offices. He was the first 
high constable of Harrisburg. In later 
years he was engaged in the lime business 
in this city. His mother was Susan Russell. 
The surviving children of the family are: 
John, residing in Philadelphia; Thomas, 
residing in Harrisburg; Adeline, wife of 
Samuel Black, residing in Baltimore ; Joseph 
E.. JUaniel H., James M., and Charles H. 
James M. received the advantages of a pub- 
lic school education in Harrisburg, where he 
has spent his life, with the exception of six 
years which he spent in Philadelphia. After 
leaving school he was engaged at the pla- 



ting trade for four years. After this, he 
engaged in the sale of building sand, in 
which he still continues, in connection with 
other enterprises, especially the brick manu- 
facture, conducted by the enterprising firm 
of Bigler & Co., of which he is a member. 
In 1874 he removed to Philadelphia, where 
he spent six years as foreman of car inspec- 
tors of Pennsylvania Gas Coal Company. 
In 1880 he returned to Harrisburg, and has 
held continuous residence here since that 
date. He is one of the progressive business 
men of Harrisbure, and has aided substan- 
tially in the development of some important 
enterprises, which have materially bene- 
fitted the city and county. He was married 
in Philadelphia to Ella Jane Sparks, daugh- 
ter of George W. and Elisa Jane Sparks. 
Their children are Irene C, Eliza and James 
C. B. In political views he is a liberal. 
The family attend the Memorial Lutheran 
church. 



Worden, James H., was born in Luzerne 
county, October 9, 1855, son of Hiram B. 
and Mary A. (Lock wood) Miller Worden. 
Hiram B. Worden was born in Luzerne 
county, Pa., November 8, 1826. His early life 
was spent in the coal business in the Wyom- 
ing Valley. He was at that time one of the 
most prominent coal operators in the valley. 
He continued in the business until 1861. He 
was first married to Miss Vangelia C. Lock- 
wood, daughter of William and Hester 
Travis Lockwood. There was no issue of 
this marriage. Mrs. Worden died in 1853, 
aged twent^y-four years. In his second mar- 
riage Mr. Worden was united to Mrs. Mary 
A. (Lockwood) Miller. She was born Feb- 
ruary 5, 1821. The children by this mar- 
riage are James H., H. M. F., Vangelia C, 
Carrie K., who died September 27, 1886, 
aged twenty-seven years ; Hiram B., and 
Annie M. The mother died February 26, 
1878, aged fifty-seven years. Mr. Worden 
was married the third time, April 21, 1880, 
to Mrs. Almira Walker Geer, daughter of 
Marshall K. and Anna M. Walker. After 
leaving the coal business in 1861, Mr. Wor- 
den went into farming and stock raising, to 
which he gave his attention until 1878, after 
which he was in the milling business until 
1882, when he engaged in the hay business, 
in which he is still engaged. Mr. Worden 
is prominent in the Masonic and Odd Fel- 
lows fraternities. He is a member of the 



548 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Methodist church, in which he has filled all 
church offices. 

James H. Worden received a good educa- 
tion in the public schools, finishing at the 
Keystone Academy at Factoryville, Pa., and 
at a very early age began teaching school in 
Wyoming county, where he was employed 
during three winter terms; in the summer 
he assisted his father on the farm. During 
the year 1875 Mr. Worden was clerk in the 
Chenango Valley Savings Bank, Binghain- 
ton, N. Y.; during 1876 he had charge of 
the books of his uncle, George Worden, at 
Pittston, Pa., in the meantime teaching 
school three months of an unexpired term. 
He also taught six weeks of another term in 

1878 at Yatesville, Pa., in May of which year 
he resigned and entered the emploj' of the 
Lochiel Rolling Mill Company at Harris- 
burg, Pa., which position he held for one 
year when the mill was closed down. In 

1879 he took charge of the hooks of D. W. 
Gross & Son, 119 Market street, Harrisburg, 
and remained with them until 1882, when 
he connected himself with C. E. H. Brels- 
ford & Co., of Harrisburg, having charge of 
the accounts of this company until January, 
1892, when it was reorganized and incor- 
porated in the name of the Brelsford Pack- 
ing Company, and Mr. Worden was made 
secretary and treasurer of the corporation, 
which position he still holds. He is also 
connected with and is the president of the 
Columbia Baking Company of Columbia, 
Pa. He is also president of the Pennsyl- 
vania State Sportsmen's Association, and 
president of the Harrisburg Shooting Asso- 
ciation. Among the fraternities, Mr. Wor- 
den is past master of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M., of Harrisburg; past coun- 
cillor of Capital City Council, No. 327, Jr. 0. 
U. A. M., and for twenty years has been an 
Odd Fellow. In politics he is and always 
has been a Republican. The family are 
Episcopalians. 

James H. Worden was married January 
17, 1883, at Carbondale, Pa., to Elizabeth I. 
Joyce, daughter of Thomas and Margaret 
(Hartley) Joyce. They have two children : 
Lockwood Brelsford, born July 4, 1886, and 
Margaret Hartley, born October 14, 1892. 

Mrs. James H. Worden was born at Car- 
bondale, Pa., May 1, 1857. Her father, 
Thomas Joyce, was born in the north of Ire- 
land, June 27, 1809, and emigrated to Amer- 
ica in 1844. He was a farmer and sheep 
raiser. He first married Anna, daughter of 



John and Anna Adams. Their children 
were: Emily, who resides near Scranton, 
Pa., and Robert, who died June 17, 1859, 
aged twenty -one years. In his second mar- 
riage, Mr. Joyce was united to Margaret, 
daughter of Henry and Margaret Hartley, 
by whom he had four children: Thomas H, 
Annie M., wife of William Kelley, of One- 
onta, N. Y.; Elizabeth Isabella, wife of Mr. 
Worden, and John, who died June 12, 1860, 
aged sixteen. Mrs. Margaret Joyce died 
August 23, 1869, aged fifty-six. Mr. Joyce 
was married the third time December 24, 
1872, to Eliza, daughter of Robert Reynolds. 
Of this marriage there is no issue. Mr. Joyce 
entered the services of the Delaware and 
Hudson Railroad Company in the capacity 
of engineer, assisting in the building of the 
first railroad in Luzerne county, and re- 
mained in the employment of this company 
until 1868, when he retired. He was an ac- 
tive member of the Episcopal church until 
his death, June 13, 1881, in the seventy- 
second year of his age. Mrs. Eliza .Joyce 
survives him and resides at Factoryville, 
Pa., where she holds membership in the 
Methodist church. 



Carlile, Alexander W., senior member 
of the firm of Carlile & Roberts, proprietors 
of the Pennsylvania Ammonia and Fertili- 
zer Works, was born in Chester county, near 
New London, Pa., December 3, 1855. He is 
a son of Samuel and Julia C. (Henderson) 
Carlile, the former a native of Chester 
county, the latter of Lancaster county, Pa. 
After passing through the public schools of 
his native town, he attended Delaware 
College, at Newark, Del., from which he was 
graduated in 1882. For four years he was 
assistant analytical chemist in the State 
Laboratory of Delaware College. In 1886 
he opened a chemical laboratory at Wil- 
mington, Del., and was engaged in this pro- 
fession for four years in this place. The 
next year he was engaged in the same pro- 
fession at Lancaster, Pa., and during this 
time was also manager and stockholder in 
the Pennsylvania Ammonia and Fertilizer 
Company, at Harrisburg, Pa. In July, 
1895, he formed a partnership in this busi- 
ness with Mr. Alexander H. Roberts. 

He was married, in Philadelphia, January 
28, 1885, to Eveline Juliet Witmer, daugh- 
ter of Amos L. and Amanda Witmer, of 
Lancaster, Pa. Two children have been 
born to them, one of whom died in child- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



549 



hood. The living child is Genevieve, born 
December 27, 1892. In politics Mr. Carlile 
is a Democrat. He attends the Episcopal 
church. 



Bentley, George Holland, manager of 
Paxton Plate Mills, was born in Coatesville, 
Chester county, Pa., March 8, 1856. He is 
a son of John S. and Mary (Manley) Bentley, 
the former of Chester county and the latter 
of Delaware county, Pa. He was reared to 
manhood and was educated in his native 
county. In boyhood he worked on a farm, 
and when fifteen years old went to work in 
a rolling-mill. He has been engaged in the 
iron business twenty-five years. In 1879 he 
removed to Chester, and there also worked 
in a rolling-mill. Toward the last of his 
engagement he was manager of the Chester 
rolling-mill, and afterwards of the Wellman 
iron and steel works. In October, 1892, he 
removed to Harrisburg and assumed his 
present position. He has been twice mar- 
ried. He was married, first, at Wilmington, 
Del., in 1877, to Edith T. Wier. To this 
marriage were born six children, two of 
whom died in childhood. Their living 
children are Walter S., J. Frank, Bertha M., 
and George Allen ; those deceased, John E. 
and C. Edgar. Mr. Bentley is a member of 
Thurlow Castle, No. 159, K. of G. E., Chester, 
Pa. In political views he is a Republican. 
The family attends the M. E. church. Mrs. 
Bentley died at Chester in March, 1890. In 
April, 1892, he was married to Melissa Val- 
entine, widow of the late Joseph Hendrick- 
son. Two children were the fruit of this 
marriage, Mary, who died in infancy, and 
Paul H. The parents of Mr. Bentley had 
nine children, all of whom are living: 
Harry C, of Philadelphia; William Hum- 
phrey, of Coatesville ; D. Frank, of Coates- 
ville; Edith A., wife of James D. Stott, of 
Coatesville ; Harriet E., widow of the late 
David Thompson, of Gum Tree, Chester 
county, Pa.; George P., of Harrisburg, and 
Abram H., of Chester, Pa., twin brothers ; 
Edmund E., of Coatesville, Pa. Mr. Bent- 
ley has thoroughly demonstrated his busi- 
ness ability, and as a citizen enjoys the re- 
spect and esteem of his neighbors. 



of Pennsylvania and of Irish ancestry. They 
both died at Hazleton, the father in 1889, 
the mother in 1878. The father was a highly 
respected citizen of Hazleton and prominent 
in military circles, bearing the title of 
colonel. They had born to them three chil- 
dren : W. R., Ella, and James C, Indian 
agent at Ft. Dunlap, Mon. The youth of 
W. Righter was spent in Hazleton, where he 
had the advantage of a good public school 
education. He became a telegraph operator 
in the employment of the Lehigh Valley 
Railroad Company. In 1877 he became 
connected with the Hazleton Electric Light 
Company and on March 17, 1884, he came 
to Harrisburg and since that date has been 
connected with the Harrisburg Electric 
Light Company. In May of the same year 
he was appointed electrician of the company 
and has efficiently performed the duties of 
his present position since 1886. He was 
married, at Harrisburg, June 1, 1886, to 
Sarah Coulter, daughter of William and 
Sarah Coulter, of Harrisburg. To them 
have been born two children : Mary and 
James. He is a member of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M. In political 
views he is a Republican. He attends the 
Market Square Presbyterian church. 



Fitzpatkick, W. Righter, superintendent 
of the Harrisburg Electric Company, was 
born at Hazleton, Luzerne county, Pa., March 
29, 1856. He is a son of James and Mary 
(Malloy) Fitzpatrick, who were both natives 



Geisel, Henry, proprietor of the Enter- 
prise Planing Mill, was born at Harrisburg, 
June 10, 1856. His father, Henry Geisel, 
and his mother, Amelia Geisel, were both born 
in Germany, but emigrated to this country 
and were among the early settlers of Harris- 
burg, where Mr. Geisel carried on the black- 
smith business until within a short time of 
his death. They had a family of eight chil- 
dren, six of whom are living: Henry, Richard, 
Lena, wife of Harry Smith, residing at Plum 
Creek, Neb.; Amelia, wife of George Harris, 
Harrisburg; Augusta and John, also resid- 
ing in Harrisburg. 

Mr. Geisel received a public school edu- 
cation. At ten years of age he started in life 
as an errand boy in a grocery store, and at 
the age of sixteen years he entered the plan- 
ing mill of Trullinger & Co., where he learned 
the business and followed it both in Harris- 
burg and Philadelphia until 1890, when he 
engaged in business for himself. 
' He was married in Harrisburg, May 28, 
1876, to Elizabeth Henning, of Harrisburg, 
daughter of John and Elizabeth Henning. 
They have four living children and one dead. 



550 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



The living children are: Henry, Jr., John F., 
Charles H., and Grover Cleveland. 

He is a member of Lamberton Lodge, No. 
708, I. 0. 0. F.; Bayard Lodge, No. 150, K. 
P., and of Goldsmith Division, U. R. K. F. 
He has served as judge of election board of 
Sixth ward. In political views he is a 
Democrat. The family attend the Lutheran 
church. 



Roberts, Alexander H, of the firm of 
Carlile & Roberts, proprietors of the Penn- 
sylvania Ammonia and Fertilizer Works, 
was born in Harrisburg, August 1, 1856. 
He is a son of Alexander and Charlotte E. 
(Geiger) Roberts, whose ancestors were early 
settlers of Harrisburg. He received his 
primary education in the public schools of 
Harrisburg, and later attended the prepara- 
tory school of Jacob F. Seiler. He com- 
pleted his education at Lafayette College, 
Easton, Pa. He went to Philadelphia and 
became a partner in the firm of Win. B. 
Riely & Co., horse blanket manufacturers. 
He continued in the business ten years, when 
he retired from the firm, returned to Harris- 
burg and engaged in the wholesale stationery 
business on Market Square, under the firm 
name of Roberts & Meek. He is still an 
active partner in this firm. In Jul} 7 , 1895, 
he became associated with Mr. A. W. Carlile 
in the manufacture of fertilizers. 

He was married in Germantown, Phila- 
delphia, April 8, 1885, to Miss Bertha Hill, 
daughter of Erastus and Sarah (Grafley) 
Hill. Of their four children, two died in in- 
fancy. The living children are Sarah H, 
born September 11, 1888, and Erastus H., 
born December 25, 1894. In political views 
Mr. Roberts is a Democrat. 



Worden, Henry M. F., manager of Brels- 
ford Packing Company, Harrisburg, Pa., was 
born at Plains, Luzerne county, Pa., October 
6, 1856. He is a son of Hiram B. and Mary 
A. (Lockwood) Worden, natives of Luzerne 
county, the former born near Wilkes-Barre, 
the latter near Scranton. His father was a 
coal operator and opened the first shaft ever 
opened between Wilkes-Barre and Pittston. 
In 1861 he sold out, went to Wyoming 
county and was engaged in farming and 
milling up to 1892, when he removed to 
Whitney's Point, N. Y., and is now engaged 
there in the pressing of hay. His mother 
died at Factoryville, Wyoming county, Feb- 
ruary 26, 1876. These parents had a family 



of six children : James H, Henry M. F., 
Vangelia, wife of A. E. Bailey, Hiram B., 
Carrie (deceased) and Annie M. 

Henry M. F. Worden received his primary 
education in the public school of his native 
county. He also attended the Keystone 
Academy at Factoryville, Wyoming county. 
He taught school for two years in Wyoming 
county and the following two years he was 
an accountant at Pittston, Luzerne county, 
Pa. In 1881 he removed to Harrisburg and 
engaged with C. E. H. Brelsford as account 
ant. In January, 1893, this business was 
formed into an incorporated company and 
Mr. Worden became a stockholder and the 
manager of the company. 

He was married in Harrisburg, January 
20, 1885, to Mary E. Dietrich, daughter of 
B. F. and Harriet Dietrich, of Harrisburg. 
They have one child, Harriet, born October 
6, 1888. Mr. Worden is a member of the 
Capital City Council, No. 327, Jr. O. U. A. M. 
In politics he is a Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Worden 
faithfully discharges the duties devolving 
upon him, and in every line of action mani- 
fests energy, fidelity and intelligence. 



Nagle, Christian M., chief engineer of 
the Harrisburg water works, was born in 
Bainbridge, Lancaster county, Pa., February 
2, 1857. His father, Emanuel Nagle, is a 
native of Marietta, Lancaster county, and is 
of German ancestiy. He is a blacksmith, 
and has carried on business in Marietta, 
Bainbridge and Middletown. He has lived 
thirty years at Middletown, and served sev- 
eral terms in the common council of the 
borough. He was provost marshal of Bain- 
bridge during the war. He was also for 
some time in the employment of the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company. He is now 
living a quiet, retired life, at Middletown, at 
the age of seventy-four years, highly re- 
spected by all who know him. His wife, 
Sarah Ann (Markley) Nagle, is of English 
ancestry, and was born at Penningtonville, 
Chester county, Pa. She is still living, at 
seventy-three 3-ears of age. They had ten 
children, six of whom are living: Mary S., 
wife of Adam Dennis, residing at Mann's 
Choice, Pa., where Mr. Dennis has been 
ticket agent and operator for the Pennsyl- 
vania railroad for over twenty years; John 
H, residing in Harrisburg ; Esther A., wife 
of Ross McCreary, residing in Middletown ; 
Christian M. ; Ellen, wife of George Hutton, 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



551 



residing in Harrisburg, a prominent grocery 
merchant, and a water works commissioner ; 
and Luther M., residing in Middletown. 

When about eight years old, Christian M. 
Nagle removed to Middletown with his 
parents, and passed here his boyhood days, 
taking the course of study in the public and 
high schools of the town. After leaving 
school he came to Harrisburg and became 
an apprentice at the machinist's trade, in 
the employ of W. 0. Hickok ; he remained 
with this firm for fourteen years. On June 
4, 1888, he was appointed assistant engineer 
of the water works. In 1890 he was pro- 
moted to the place of chief engineer, which 
he now holds. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, January 
15, 1879, to Naomi Livingston, daughter of 
Benjamin and Esther Livingston, of Watts 
township, Perry count)'. Their children 
are: Charles E., born January 10, 1880; 
Bertha M., born August 12, 1882, and Esther 
A., born May 14, 1884. 

Mr. Nagle has served as school director, 
representing the Sixth ward for two terms. 
He is a member of Egyptian Commandery, 
No. 114, K. of M.; St. John's Castle, No. 17, 
M. C, and of the Royal Arcanum. In po- 
litical views he is a Republican. The family 
attend the United Evangelical church. 



Fleming, David, Jr., was born at Harris- 
burg, Pa., May 4, 1857. He is a son of 
David Fleming, a sketch of whom appears 
on another page of this volume, and Susan 
(Mowry) Fleming, daughter of Charles 
Mowry, also elsewhere noticed in this book. 

He spent his youth in Harrisburg, and 
enjoyed the best educational advantages af- 
forded in the city. He studied at Princeton 
College in class of 1878. He was one year 
with the engineer corps of the Pennsylvania 
Canal Company. In January, 1879, he was 
with the Harrisburg Car Company as clerk, 
and was afterwards made cashier of the 
foundry and machine department of the car 
company. In the re-organization of the 
Harrisburg Foundry and Machine Works he 
was prominent, and was elected secretary 
and treasurer of the company, the position 
he has since filled. He was made one of the 
executors of his father's estate in 1890. He 
also succeeded his father as director of the 
First National Bank of Harrisburg. Since 
his father's death the estate rebuilt and re- 
constructed the Commonwealth Hotel in 
1891, and added the annex in 1892. He is 



one of the organizers and a director of the 
East Harrisburg Passenger Railway Com- 
pany. He is one of the incorporators of the 
Harrisburg Grocery and Produce Company, 
and one of the incorporators and a director 
of the Brelsford Packing Company. He is 
a stockholder in the Trust and Safe Deposit 
Company and the People's Bridge Company, 
and succeeded his father as president of the 
People's Gas Company. He is interested in 
several other enterprises, being director of 
the Pennsylvania Folding Gate and Guard 
Company, of the Pennsylvania Ventilated 
Barrel Company, of the Westinger Furnace 
Company and of the Harrisburg Traction 
Company. He was one of the organizers of 
the Harrisburg Club, and was on the gov- 
erning committee of the club for several 
years. He is one of the incorporators of the 
Inglenook Club and one of the building 
committee of the club. In politics Mr. 
Fleming is a Republican. He was married 
in October 16, 1884, to Mary Curwen, daugh- 
ter of John Curwen, superintendent of Penn- 
sylvania Hospital, Warren, Pa., and Martha 
Elmer, daughter of Judge Elmer, of the Su- 
preme Court of New Jersey. They have two 
children : Martha Elmer, born March 6, 
1889, and David Fleming, third, born April 
21, 1893. He is a member of Market Square 
Presbyterian church, in which he holds the 
office of deacon. He teaches the class taught 
by his father in the Sunday-school. 



Goodman, Benedict, manager of the 
Goodman Clothing Company, was born at 
New Haven, Conn., June 16, 1857, son 
of Simon and Sophia (Rotenberger) Good- 
man. The parents were both natives of Ger- 
many. The father was born February 27, 
1821, came to this country when a boy, 
landed at New York, and from there went 
South and engaged in general merchandis- 
ing with Saligman Bros. The partnership 
was dissolved at the end of five or six years, 
and he came North and engaged in the 
grocer}' business for himself, in which lie 
has continued to the present time. He re- 
tired from business at one time, but being 
an active man, co'uld not be satisfied with- 
out employment, and hence resumed busi- 
ness. The father was first married to Miss 
Sophia Roseburger, to whom eight children 
were born. Mrs. Goodman died June 16, 
1873, aged forty-six years. The family were 
members of the Jewish Synagogue. Bene- 
dict Goodman attended the public schools of 



552 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



his native place until he was thirteen years 
old, after which he took a course of study 
at the academy in New Haven. He was 
engaged in the grocery business with his 
father for seventeen years, when he left 
his home and went to New York, and from 
there to Pennsylvania, and traveled West 
looking for a business location. He returned 
to Philadelphia, where he was employed for 
two years in the retail clothing business, and 
was subsequently engaged in the wholesale 
business until 1883. He then became a 
traveling salesman through the western 
States, in 1883 he came to Harrisburg and 
opened a clothing store at No. 422 Market 
street, in a small room 16x32 feet, where he 
conducted business for three years. . In Jan- 
uary, 1886, he leased the corner of Fourth 
and Market street, where he has since been 
located. Mr. Goodman was married De- 
cember 16, 1777, to Miss P. Goodman, 
daughter of Henry and Matilda Goodman, 
to whom has been born one daughter, 
Sophia, The parents of Mrs. Goodman 
were both natives of South Bend. The 
father was a general merchant and lived in 
Philadelphia, where he died. 



Kinter, Charles H., manager of the 
Harrisburg Electric Company, was born at 
Columbus, Ohio, August 2, 1857, son of 
George and Caroline C. (Heister) Kinter. 
He came to Harrisburg with his parents 
when a child and received his education in 
the public schools. He was then employed 
as messenger in the train dispatchers' office 
of the Pennsylvania railroad, from which he 
was transferred to the position of clerk in the 
freight warehouse and subsequently served 
for six years as passenger brakeman and 
conductor on the Middle division. On Oc- 
tober 1, 1888, he was made manager of the 
Electric Company and has continued in 
charge of this important business since that 
time. He was married at Harrisburg, No- 
vember 3, 1881. to Mary C. Groff, daughter 
of George M. and Elizabeth Groff. They 
have no children. Mr. Kinter is a member 
of State Capitol Lodge, No. 2030, K. of H. 
He is a Republican and attends Grace Meth- 
odist Episcopal church. 



father, John Patton, was one of the earliest 
settlers of Northumberland county, where 
he spent the greater portion of his life and 
died at Milton at an advanced age. He was 
the inventor of the screw propeller. Will- 
iam P. Patton, son of John and father of J. 
Hervey, was born at Milton, Northumber- 
land county, and came to Harrisburg about 
the year 1850. For twenty years he was 
connected with the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company. He was the first superintendent 
of the Harrisburg city water department. 
He was the designing architect in the con- 
struction of the People's Gas Light Company 
and superintendent of it until its consolida- 
tion with the United Gas Improvement 
Company. About 1885 he removed to 
Washington, D. C, and was engaged there 
for four years in the Patent Office. He re- 
moved to Jersey City in 1889, and has since 
been in the employment of Munn & Co., 
publishers of the Scientific American as one 
of their patent examiners. He married 
Margaret Able, mother of J. Hervey Patton. 

J. Hervey Patton was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of the city, and after leaving 
school spent six years at telegraphy in the 
service of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany. In 1879 he became connected with 
the Harrisburg Car Company in the capac- 
ity of corresponding and order clerk, and 
was continuously in the service of this com- 
pany until the industry was discontinued. 
On the formation of the companies above 
named he was chosen to the position he so 
efficiently fills at this date. 

Mr. Patton was married at Harrisburg, 
September 7, 1886, to Miss Anna W. Lynch, 
daughter of John S. and Elizabeth Lynch, 
the former at that date being recorder of 
deeds for Dauphin county. They have no 
children. Mr. Patton is a member of the 
Royal Arcanum. In political matters he 
acts with the Republicans. Both Mr. and 
Mrs. Patton are consistent members of Grace 
M. E. church. Mr. Patton is one of the 
stewards of that church. 



Patton, J. Hervey, chairman of the Har- 
risburg Pipe Bending Company (limited) 
and also chairman of the Harrisburg Tin- 
smith Company (limited), was born in Har- 
risburg, Pa., October 26, 1857. His grand- 



Spicer, J. Henry, superintendent of the 
Harrisburg Burial Case Company, was born 
at Plymouth, Hancock county, 111., Novem- 
ber 14, 1857, son of Charles A. and Nancy 
(West) Spicer. 

Charles A. Spicer, undertaker and furni- 
ture dealer, was born at Carlisle, Pa., April 
6, 1835. His father, Henry Spicer, was a 
native of Switzerland, who came to this 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



55 3 



country and settled at Carlisle, Pa. He was 
owner and publisher of the Carlisle Herald 
up to the time of his death, which occurred 
in 1835. His wife, Eliza Gorman, was a 
native of Cumberland county and died in 
1841. They had two children, of whom 
Charles A. is the only survivor. He took a 
partial course in the public schools, and in 
his fifteenth year was an apprentice to the 
cabinet-making business. When nineteen 
years old he removed to Polo, 111., where he 
worked at carpentry. He went to Plymouth, 
111., in 1855, and carried on the furniture 
business there for two years. He returned 
to Carlisle, Pa., in 1859, and was engaged in 
business there until 1861. In June of that 
year he enlisted in company A, Seventh 
Pennsylvania reserves, and served till his 
discharge at Falmouth, Va., in June, 1862, 
when he returned to Carlisle. In a short 
time he removed to Harrisburg where he 
was engaged with the Harrisburg Car Com- 
pany for four years, and in 1866 established 
his present business, which he has conducted 
continuously for thirty years. He was mar- 
ried at Plymouth, 111., to Nancy West, a 
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William West, 
residents of Peru, Ind. Of the ten children 
born to them, seven survive: J. Henry, 
superintendent of the Burial Case Company ; 
Nellie, wife of F. Orth, a prominent grocer 
of Harrisburg; Charles, shipping clerk, 
Burial Case Company; William, a student 
in Auburn Theological Seminary ; Kudolph, 
undertaker, at Altoona ; Bessie and Anna. 
Mr. Spicer represented the Third ward in 
council for one year. He is a member of 
State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 0. 0. F., and 
of State Capital Beneficial Society. In polit- 
ical views he is a Democrat. The family 
attend the Market Square Presbyterian 
church. 

The family removed to Harrisburg when 
J. Henry Spicer was six years old. He re- 
ceived his education in the public schools of 
this city and at Dickinson College, Carlisle, 
Pa. Upon its completion he engaged in the 
furniture business with his father, until the 
organization of the Harrisburg Burial Case 
Company, in 1882. Of this company he was 
made superintendent, and has proved effi- 
cient and faithful in performing the duties 
of his position. Mr. Spicer is a member of 
the Royal Arcanum. In politics he is a 
Prohibitionist. 

J. Henry Spicer was married at Harris- 



burg, August 31, 1881, to Annie E., daugh- 
ter of Jacob A. and Christiana (McWilliams) 
Spofford, who were formerly residents of 
Harrisburg. They are now deceased. Mr. 
and Mrs. Spicer have one son, John Spofford, 
born February 3, 1885. Mr. Spicer is an 
elder in the Market Square Presbyterian 
church. 



Royal, John Kelker, is a native of Har- 
risburg, and was born September 6, 1858. 
He is a son of Josiah S. and Rebecca E. 
(Morgan) Royal. The former was a native 
of Lancaster, and was connected with the 
printing and publishing business for many 
years, and died September, 1885, after an 
active and well spent life. The latter is a 
native of Dauphin count}', and is still living 
in this city. John K. was one of seven chil- 
dren, two of whom besides himself are still 
living, namely: Morgan J., residing in Har- 
risburg, and Mary E., also residing here. 
Mr. Royal has been a resident of Harrisburg 
all his life, receiving his education in the 
schools of this city. He learned telegraphy 
on the Northern Central railroad, and was 
occupied in this business two years. He was 
clerk in the Bolton House from 1875 to 1880. 
He was employed in bookkeeping from 1880 
to 1882. In the latter year, in connection 
with J. Henry Spicer, he organized the Har- 
risburg Burial Case Company, of which he 
was elected secretary and treasurer, and has 
faithfully performed the duties of this office 
since that date. Mr. Royal is also secretary 
and treasurer of the Harrisburg Furniture 
Company and the Harrisburg Preserving 
Company. He was married in Lebanon, 
April 2, 1891, to E. Elizabeth Miller, daugh- 
ter of J. Henry Miller, of Lebanon. Three 
children have been born to them: J. Doug- 
las M., born June 6,1892; Elizabeth, born 
November 25, 1893, and R. Ernestine, born 
July 4, 1895. He is a member of Persever- 
ance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A.M., and is a Demo- 
crat in politics. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Reformed church. Mr. Royal 
was elected a member of the city council in 
1890 in the strongest Republican ward in 
the city, and re-elected successively in 1892, 
1894 and 1896. He has been a member of 
the finance committee since his first election; 
has also served on the appropriation, high- 
way and sanitary committees, and was chair- 
man of the building and city property com- 
mittee. 



554 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Marsh, Fred. H., general eastern agent of 
the Superior Drill Company of Springfield, 
Ohio, was born near Binghampton, N. Y., 
October 3, 1858; son of David and Maria 
(Brundis) Marsh. He was reared in his 
native township and received his primary 
education in the public schools and subse- 
quently attended the Binghamton high 
school and Lowell's Commercial College, of 
Binghamton, N. Y., of both of which insti- 
tutions he is an honored graduate. After 
completing his education he was for three 
years travelling salesman for the firm of 
Thomas, Little & Rogers, of Springfield, 
Ohio, and served in the same capacity for 
E. W. Ross, of the same place, until 1891, 
since which date he has represented the 
Superior Drill Company, of Springfield, 
Ohio, in Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, 
Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and a portion 
of West Virginia, with headquarters at Har- 
risburg. Mr. Marsh was married in Dayton, 
Ohio, January 12, 1887, to Miss N. G. Hamill, 
daughter of Capt. Joseph and Leah (Creigh- 
ton) Hamill, and to them has been born one 
son, Collin Herman, died June 3, 1890, aged 
eighteen months. Mr. Marsh is a member 
of Xenia Lodge, No. 52, Shawnee Encamp- 
ment, No. 20, I. 0. 0. F., Xenia, Ohio, and 
of Xenia Lodge,_No. 1658, Knights of Honor, 
Xenia, Ohio. In politics Mr. Marsh is a 
Republican. He and his wife attend the 
Pine Street Presbyterian church in this city 
and are both members of the denomination. 



Roberts, James W., iron and brass founder, 
Harrisburg, was born in Harrisburg, De- 
cember 3, 1858. He is a son of Alexander 
and the late Charlotte (Geiger) Roberts, who 
are referred to on another page of this vol- 
ume. He received his primary education in 
the public schools of his native city, took a 
regular course at Lafayette College, Easton, 
Pa., and was graduated from that institution 
in the class of 1882. After completing his 
collegiate course he studied civil engineer- 
ing. For two and a half years he was in the 
service of the Pennsylvania Canal Company 
and subsequently was assistant engineer for 
about three years. He was also assistant 
chief clerk in the railway mail service for 
three years. He was connected with the iron 
and brass foundry for one year. In January, 
1895, he became sole proprietor of his pres- 
ent business. Mr. Roberts is a member of 



the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. 
In his political views he is a Democrat. He 
is unmarried. 



Eberle, William F., general foreman of 
the Harrisburg car shops, Pennsylvania 
railroad, was born at Altoona, Blair county, 
Pa., June 8, 1859. He is a son of Alexander 
and Mary (Kilpatrick) Eberle. He received 
a common school education in his native 
city, and was indentured as an apprentice to 
learn car building, in the service of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, at Al- 
toona, August 1, 1876. He was the only 
person indentured as an apprentice during 
the Centennial year. He served four years 
at his apprenticeship, and afterwards re- 
mained in the service of the company, work- 
ing in the cabinet department of the car 
shops until September 21, 1887, when he was 
appointed assistant foreman of the passenger 
car erecting shops. On February 1, 1891, 
he was appointed assistant general foreman 
of the Wall shops, on the Pittsburgh divi- 
sion, and was located at that point until 
February 27, 1893, when he was appointed 
to his present position. He was married, at 
Altoona, Pa., August 1, 1888, to Miss Annie 
Bussman, daughter of Charles and Susan 
Bussman, of Altoona. Their union has 
been blessed with two children : Alma May 
and Alexander Wallis. Mr. Eberle has rep- 
resented the Second ward of the city of Al- 
toona in common council for two terms. 
He is a member of Altoona Lodge, No. 281, 
F. & A. M., and of Logan Lodge, No. 79, K. 
of P., of Altoona. He is a Republican, and 
attends the United Brethren church. 



Bigelow, Lucius S., general manager and 
secretary of the W. 0. Hickok Manufactur- 
ing Company, Harrisburg, Pa., and its ac- 
tive head since the spring of 1888, was born 
in Homer. Courtland county, N. Y., Septem- 
ber 6, 1859. During his childhood Mr. 
Bigelow lived in Homer, N. Y., Jackson, 
Mich., Silver Creek, N. Y., and Buffalo, N. Y. 
At the last named place, he, as a youth, 
took a lively interest in the art of printing, 
and started in an amateur way a printing- 
office, in a building adjoining the rear of 
the family homestead. Some time later 
he took into partnership a brother, now of 
Boston, then connected with one of the Buf- 
falo banks. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



555 



Business increased, and by degrees this 
small office grew into prominence. It was 
removed into the business portion of the 
city, and conducted under the firm name of 
Bigelow Bros., to which firm, later, a third 
brother, then connected with the auditing 
department of the F. and P. M. railway at 
East Saginaw, Mich., was admitted to part- 
nership, the business having been again ex- 
tended. 

Later, the founder of this well-known 
concern, receiving a flattering proposition 
from a compan} 7 of large lumber operators, 
took a responsible position with them, which 
at times called him into Pennsylvania. Dur- 
ing these trips into the Keystone State Mr. 
Bigelow met and subsequently married Miss 
Sarah Esther Harris, born in Harrisburg, 
and one of the few living direct descendants 
of John Harris, who settled on the present 
site of Harrisburg, and of John Harris, his 
son, the founder of the city which bears his 
name, and who gave to the State of Penn- 
sylvania, for the site of a State house, the 
beautiful spot upon which that building 
now stands, and to the city of Harrisburg 
" Market Square," for market purposes. 

Although Mr. Bigelow's lumber connec- 
tions were in Tonawanda, near Buffalo, N. 
Y., the largest lumber shipping point in the 
world, he decided to live in Harrisburg, 
making that city the center of the territory 
which he controlled and conducted in the 
sales department of the business. During 
his early residence in Harrisburg Mr. Bige- 
low met many of the business men of that 
city, and receiving one day a request to drop 
into the office of one of these gentlemen, he 
complied, and was there told that the board 
of directors of the W. 0. Hickok Manufac- 
turing Company had at a recent meeting de- 
cided to offer for his acceptance the position 
of general manager and secretary of that 
company. This suggestion was an entire 
surprise to Mr. Bigelow, since hehad known 
nothing of the proposed plan, but his early 
training in printing and bookbinding having 
well fitted him to conduct the mechanical 
end of the Hickok Company's business, 
which is the manufacturing of bookbinder's 
and paperruler's machinery, and his experi- 
ence in later years having fitted him to con- 
duct the office, sales department and general 
business, he finally, after deliberation, de- 
cided to accept the offer, although in doing 
so he gave up a verj r desirable position and 
business. Certain suggestions made by the 



directors of the Hickok Company decided 
him to make the change. The business has 
prospered under Mr. Bigelow's management ; 
its line of manufactures has received mate- 
rial additions, thus enlarging its field of 
usefulness and profit. The concern is doing 
a large foreign as well as domestic business. 
The recent addition of a bicycle department 
to the line of manufactures of the Hickok 
Company was purely the outcome of sugges- 
tions and investigations made by Mr. Bige- 
low. His untiring efforts, coupled with a 
highly expert assistant in the foreman of 
that department, whom he has secured from 
another city, bids fair to make of it a marked 
success. They will build the highest grade 
of wheels. 

Mr. Bigelow is a stockholder in the J. H. 
McFarland Printing Company, a member of 
the Board of Trade of Harrisburg and the 
secretary of the Association of American 
Manufacturers. In his political views he is 
a Republican. He is a member of Market 
Square Presbyterian church and is solo bass 
in its choir. He is a trustee of the Paxtang 
Presbyterian church. The children of Mr. 
and Mrs. Bigelow are : Katharine, Harris 
Storres and Allen Carvl. 



Foose, Jacob A., superintendent and man- 
ager of the Harrisburg Tinsmith Company, 
was born in Lancaster, Pa., February 11, 
I860. He is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth 
(Hambright) Foose. They are natives of 
Lancaster county, where his father was for 
many years identified with prominent busi- 
ness interests. He efficiently filled the office 
of chief of police in Lancaster for many years, 
and for many years served the city well in 
the select council. He now resides in Read- 
ing, Pa., and conducts an extensive tin and 
copper smithing business. These parents 
have three children living: Anna, wife of 
William B. Cox; Ida, wife of Ambrose Sny- 
der, and Jacob A. The latter received a 
limited education in the Lancaster public 
schools. At ten years of age he began to 
work in his father's shop at plumbing, gas- 
fitting, tin and copper smithing. After four- 
teen years of this employment in his native 
city he removed to Lebanon, Pa., in 1884, 
and was for one year foreman of a tinsmith- 
ing establishment there. In June, 1885, he 
opened a shop in Harrisburg in connection 
with the Harrisburg Car Manufacturing 
Company, which he has since operated, hav- 
ing been connected with his present business 



556 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



from its beginning. He was ,'married in 
Lancaster, November 15, 1877, to Sarah F., 
daughter of Peter and Amanda Stout, of 
Reading, Pa. Of their ten children, six 
died in infancy. Those living are: Jacob 
S., Frank D., Bertha H., and Helen. Mr. 
Foose is an active member of Cornplanter 
Tribe, No. 61,1. 0. P. M.; of Dauphin Castle, 
K. of G. E.; and Philadelphia Council, 
Legion of Honor. He is an ardent Demo- 
crat. He attends the Lutheran church. 



Buehlee, Martin H., general manager 
of the Pennsylvania Telephone Company, 
was born at Harrisburg, January 29, 1861. 
He is a son of Jacob and Anna C. (Locher) 
Buehler. His father was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., March 20, 1825. He is a son 
of Martin and Anna M. (Schaubhut) 
Buehler, who were born in the town of 
Eichen, Parish of Schopfhein, Baden, Ober- 
land, Germany ; the former May 19, 1780, 
the latter May 18, 1783. The father was a 
weaver; he was married, January 10, 1804, 
and in 1817 came to America. He died in 
April, 1852, and his wife died in Septem- 
ber, 1852. Jacob was reared to manhood in 
Lancaster county, receiving his education in 
the public schools and private schools of 
that county. He was engaged in mercan- 
tile pursuits there until 1859, at which time 
he removed to Harrisburg, and for thirty - 
six years has been continuously in business 
in this city. He was married, in Lancaster, 
March 12, 1851, to Ann C. Locher, daugh- 
ter of Jacob H. and Mary E. Locher, born 
in Boonsborough, Washington county, Md. 
They had three children, namely : Mary G., 
wife of H. L. Hershey, recorder of Dauphin 
county, residing in Harrisburg; Martin H. 
and William E., residing in St. Louis, Mo. 
Mrs. Buehler, mother of Martin H., died 
September 24, 1893. The grandparents, 
Martin and Anna M. Buehler, had born to 
them nine children, name]}': John, born 
January 22, 1805, died May 14, 1811 ; Mar- 
tin, born April 20, 1806, died May 19, 1880; 
Anna Maria, born October 18, 1807 ; Anna 
Barbara, born July 24, 1810, died December 
25, 1886; Catherina, born April 9, 1813, 
widow of the late Gottlieb Laudenschlager, 
residing in Wayne county, Ohio; John 
George, born April 23, 1815 ; John, born at 
sea, in 1817, died September 30, 1857 ; Nancy, 
born in 1819, died in 1843, and Jacob. The 
grandparents on the father's side were John 
Jacob Buehler, a citizen of Schlechtbach, 



and burgomaster of Reitbach, Germany, 
and Maria, born in Blum. The grandpar- 
ents on the mother's side were John Schaub- 
hut, a citizen and weaver of Eichen, born 
July 9, 1752, and Barbara, who died Decem- 
ber 30, 1801. The descendants of the mother 
were Anna Maria Schaubhut, Maria Bar- 
bara, born August 19, 178 1 , married July 
27, 1806, to John George Ratz, a mason, who 
was born July 18, 1782, and came to 
America with their three children in 1817 ; 
also a stepsister named Anna, who was born 
November 1, 1804. The before-mentioned 
John Schaubhut married for his second 
wife, Magdalene Rotzler, widow of John 
George Heckendorn, in Eichen, December 
27, 1763, and died January 28, 1827. 

Martin H. obtained his primary educa- 
tion in Seller's Academy, Harrisburg, and 
completed his studies in the Pennsylvania 
College, Gettysburg, from which institution 
he was graduated in 1882. From this date 
he has been continuously connected with 
the Pennsylvania Telephone Company, and 
for eleven years of that time has faithfully 
and efficiently performed the duties of sec- 
retary and treasurer of the company. Early 
in 1894 he was appointed general manager 
of the company. He was married, in Har- 
risburg, November 14, 1894, to Miss Fannie 
May Shearer, daughter of Joseph W. and 
Annie (Myers) Shearer, of Harrisburg. In 
political views Mr. Buehler is a Republican. 
His wife attends Zion Lutheran church. 
Mr. Buehler has displayed business capacity 
and reliability which claim recognition and 
respect. His standing and character are 
high. 



Weast, George B., was born in Mifflin 
township, Cumberland county, January 24, 
1862. His father, Jacob Weast, is a native 
of Cumberland county, and is now a pros- 
perous farmer of Newville, Cumberland 
county. His mother, Lavinia (Christlip) 
Weast, is also a native of Cumberland 
county. The family consists of eight living 
children: George B., Minerva, the wife of 
Carl Alexander, residing at Carlisle, Pa., 
Minnie, Levi, Clara, wife of John Heberling, 
residing in Mifflin, Irvin, Theodore and 
Howard. The father has filled numerous 
township offices. 

George B. received his education in the 
public schools of Mifflin. When seventeen 
years old he went to Newville, and learned 
the tinsmith's trade at which he has worked 






DAUPE1N COUNTY. 



559 



all his life. For five years he was in busi- 
ness for himself in Newville, and since 1889 
has done business in Harrisburg. In the 
management of business he has met with suc- 
cess commensurate with his unusual abilities. 
His strictly honorable methods, his pru- 
dence and social worth command the respect 
of the community. He was married at New- 
ville, October 11, 1883, to Miss Annie Myers. 
To them have been born five children, one of 
whom died in infancy. The living children 
are Mary L., Annie, Ralph and Roy. Mr. 
Weast is a member of Conodoguinet Lodge, 
No. 173, I. 0. 0. F. He was a member of 
the council at Newville one term, and pre- 
sided over that body for one year. His fam- 
ily attend the Lutheran church. 



Dunkel, Samuel F., vice-president of the 
Harrisburg Manufacturing and Boiler Com- 
pany, was born in Swatara township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. ; May 3, 1862 ; son of Jo- 
siah A. and Mary (Bishop) Dunkel, both na- 
tives of Dauphin county and residing at 
Steelton. Samuel F. received his education 
in the public schools of Swatara township 
and in Seiler's Academy, and also took a 
course in the Business College of Harrisburg. 
After completing his education he engaged 
in the hardware business with his father, 
under the firm name of J. S. Dunkel & Son, 
and continued several years, when he pur- 
chased his father's interest and conducted 
the business four years longer on his own 
account. In 1889 he became president and 
manager of the Star Steam Heating Com- 
panj', and in 1892 acquired an interest in 
the Harrisburg Manufacturing and Boiler 
Company, of which he was made the vice- 
president in 1894. He is also a partner in 
the firm of J. S. Dunkel Sons & Co., real 
estate dealers at Steelton. Mr. Dunkel was 
married in Steelton to Miss Jessie Sefton, 
daughter of Charles J. and Rebecca Sefton, 
of Fairfield, Adams county, Pa. They have 
no children. Mr. Dunkel has filled the 
office of school director for eleven years, and 
has been secretary of the board two years 
and treasurer four years. In his political 
views he is a Republican. He attends the 
Lutheran church. 



continuous and honored residents of Harris- 
burg, where his father has conducted a suc- 
cessful dairy business for the past twenty- 
five years. The father is a native of Leba- 
non county, and his wife of Dauphin county, 
and both are living. They had four chil- 
dren, one of whom died in infancy, those 
living are Wilson R., Laura, wife of Thomas 
R. Redmond, Jr., and Bertram F. 

When about eight years of age, Wilson R. 
removed to Harrisburg with his parents, and 
his education was received in the public 
schools of this city. He began business as 
traveling salesman and was thus employed 
until 1892. On February 7, 1892, in con- 
nection with his brother, Bertram F., he en- 
gaged in the manufacture of ladies' and 
children's wear, under the firm name of 
Blough Manufacturing Company. He was 
married, in Harrisburg, to Miss Catherine 
Kline, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth 
Kline, old and honored residents of Dauphin 
county. They have had four children: 
Mabel, Violet, Ruth and Beatrice. Mr. 
Blough is a member of Harrisburg Lodge, 
No. 68, I. 0. 0. F. 



Blough, Wilson R., senior member of the 
Blough Manufacturing Company, was born 
in Palmyra, Lebanon county, Pa., May 22, 
1862. He is a son of Cyrus and Sarah 
(Meyer) Blough. His parents have been 
38 



Blough, Bertram F., of the Blough Man- 
ufacturing Company, was born in Harris- 
burg, July 22, 1873. His education was re- 
ceived in the public schools and Business 
College of his native city. He was for a 
time a traveling salesman. In 1892 he be- 
came a member of the Blough Manufactur- 
ing Company. These young men have just 
started in their business career. Their good 
qualities are apparent in the success so 
happily inaugurated, and so promising as to 
its future stability and enlargement. They 
are already respected as reliable business 
men, and are cordially granted a place of 
prominence among good citizens. 

Hildrup, William T., Jr., was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa. He is a son of William T. 
and Harriet (Esselstyne) Hildrup. He re- 
ceived his primary education in the private 
schools of his native city, was a student in 
the McClellan Institute of West Chester, Pa., 
for three years, and for four years studied at 
the University of Pennsylvania, at Philadel- 
phia, finishing his course at this institution 
with the class of 1882, receiving the degree 
of B. S. and Mechanical Engineer. After 
completing his education he was connected 
with the Harrisburg Car Manufacturing 
Company in the charge of additions and irn- 



560 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



provements of shops, efficiently filling this 
position until 1890. During this time he 
was also secretary and assistant treasurer of 
the company and superintendent of the car 
wheel department. 

In 1890, in connection with Messrs. J. H. 
Patton and D. E. Tracy, Mr. Hildrup formed 
the associations now called the Harrisburg 
Pipe Bending Company (limited) and the 
Harrisburg Tinsmith's Company (limited), 
of which companies he is the capable and 
faithful secretary and treasurer. He is a 
gentleman of wide intelligence, of great en- 
ergy and of laudable ambition. He is pop- 
ular with all classes and is regarded as one 
of the leading business men of the city. Mr. 
Hildrup is a member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M.; Harrisburg Council, 
No. 499, Royal Arcanum. He is one of the 
governors of the Harrisburg club. In po- 
litical views he is a Republican. 

Harvie, John C, senior member of the 
firm of Harvie & Bickley, proprietors of the 
Keystone Forge and Machine Works, was 
born at Harrisburg, December 22, 1862. He 
is a son of John and Jean (Nairns) Harvie. 
His parents were both born in Glasgow, 
Scotland, and came to America in 1852. 
They located at Philadelphia, and resided 
there about three years. In 1855 they re- 
moved to Harrisburg, where they have lived 
for forty years. The father is a belt-maker, 
but of late years has lived a retired life. The 
parents had born to them a family of six 
children : Jennie, wife of H. Lutz ; Ellen, 
wife of M. Dwyer; James; John C; Annie, 
wife of Edward C. Rouch, and Carrie. John 
C. was reared to manhood in this city and 
educated in the public schools. He learned 
the trade of machinist, which has been his 
occupation through life. He has been a 
continuous resident of Harrisburg since his 
birth, with the exception of five years. In 
political views he is a Republican. He at- 
tends the Presbyterian church. The manu- 
facturing plant at the head of which Mr. 
Harvie stands is one of the solid industries 
of the city. His career as a manufacturer 
has been marked by those qualities of mind 
and method which control success. 



Zimmerman, George Z., of the firm of C. 
0. Zimmerman & (Jo., brickmakers, was born 
in Harrisburg, July 11, 1863. He is a son 
of Conrad 0. and Mary (Gonter) Zimmer- 
man, the former born in Harrisburg, August 



9, 1820, and the latter in Sharpsburg, Jef- 
ferson county, W. Va., in 1835. C. O. Zim- 
merman was long a resident of Harrisburg, 
and was a public-spirited and enterprising 
citizen. He was engaged in the manufac- 
ture of brick from an early date, and built 
up a large and productive trade. He held 
various positions of trust, among which was 
the chairmanship of the city water works 
committee. He was also a member of the 
common council. He was twice married. 
To his first marriage there were born three 
children, of whom George Z. is the only sur- 
vivor. Mrs. Mary Zimmerman died May 3, 
1869. The second wife of C. O. Zimmer- 
man was Annie- E. Ward. To this marriage 
two children were born, both of whom died 
in infancj'. Mr. Zimmerman died January 
26, 1895 ; his wife still is living, and resides 
in Harrisburg. 

George Z. Zimmerman was educated in 
the public schools of Harrisburg, and at 
Pennsylvania State College. After complet- 
ing his education, he entered the employ- 
ment of his father, and in 1885 was admit- 
ted to a partnership in the business. Since 
his father's death, he has continued to carry 
on the business. The Zimmerman brick- 
yard, managed bj 7 him, is one of the largest 
and best equipped plants in the State. It 
occupies thirty-two acres of ground, situated 
at the corner of Ninth and Reily streets. It 
is fitted up with four kilns of one hundred 
and seventy-five thousand capacity each ; a 
Chambers' Bros, brick machine, a disinte- 
grator, an elevator and a plug mill, all of 
the very latest make ; also a steam brick 
dryer. The motive power is a ninety horse- 
power engine, with two boilers, of ninety and 
fifty horse-power capacity. The daily capac- 
ity of the plant is 45,000. The products are 
of all kinds of paving and building brick. 

George Z. Zimmerman was married in Har- 
risburg, January 25, 1890, to Emma S. Burn, 
of Cumberland county, Pa. Their children 
are Paul, born August 26, 1892, and Helen, 
born June 21, 1894. Mr. Zimmerman is a 
member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. 
& A. M.; Tribe No. 340, I. O. R. M., of which 
he is a member of the State finance com- 
mittee. He is an enterprising business man, 
and universally popular. 

Reel, Samuel O., was born in Susque- 
hanna township, near Harrisburg, April 13, 
1864. He is the son of Augustus and Mar- 
garet (Olewein) Reel, both natives of Dau- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



561 



phin county, now residing in Harrisburg. 
He is one of fourteen children, seven of 
whom still survive: Samuel 0., William S., 
John S.j Harry D., Ross B., Gertrude, and 
Annie. His father was born and lived in 
Susquehanna township for many years, and 
was engaged in market gardening. He 
served Dauphin county as sheriff for one 
term, and was a faithful and efficient officer. 
During late years he has lived a quiet, re- 
tired life. 

Samuel 0. Reel was educated in the pub- 
lic school of Susquehanna township. After 
leaving school, he removed to Harrisburg 
and learned the trade of founder and 
moulder, which he has followed till the 
present time. Mr. Reel is a gentleman of 
wide experience, and master of his trade in 
all its branches. He is enterprising and 
progressive, is of wide popularity and of 
sterling worth. 

He is a member of Egyptian Command- 
ery, No. 114, Knights of Malta. In political 
views he is a staunch Democrat. The family 
attend the Lutheran church. 



Swartz, Robert H., superintendent of the 
McFarland Printing House, was born March 
12, 1865, in Cumberland county, Pa. He is 
a son of John A. and Alsinda (Haley) 
Swartz. John A. Swartz was a salesman 
and also filled various public offices. He was 
married to Miss Alsinda Haley, daughter of 
William Haley. They had eight children, 
seven of whom are living : Robert H.; Clara, 
wife of L. Wise; Minnie C, wife of Andrew 
Crain, a Methodist minister, residing in 
Maine ; Elizabeth H., teacher in the public 
schools, Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Blanche, Edith, 
and Nellie. Mr. and Mrs. Swartz are both 
deceased. 

Robert H. Swartz attended the public 
schools of Mechanicsburg, Pa., until he was 
nearly fourteen years old, when he was ap- 
prenticed for three years to Mr. R. H. Thomas 
to learn printing. In 1882 he came to Har- 
risburg and was employed as a printer on 
the Harrisburg Telegraph for one year; he 
also served one year in the Patriot office. In 
1886 he went to Philadelphia and was em- 
ployed for a year in the State printing office. 
In 1888 Mr. Swartz engaged with the Mc- 
Farland Printing House and was made its 
superintendent. He is also chairman of the 
Harrisburg Paper Company, limited, and 
treasurer of the Mt. Pleasant Building and 
Loan Association. 



Mr. Swartz was married, March 12, 1885, 
to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas and 
Annie M. (Freeburg) Bering. They have two 
children: Jennie M. and Robert H., Jr. Mr. 
Swartz is a Prohibitionist and believes that 
alcohol should be sold under the same re- 
strictions which guard the sale of poisonous 
drugs. He and his family are members of 
Messiah Lutheran church. 

Thomas Bering, father of Mrs. Swartz, was 
born in Philadelphia. He was a wood 
carver and followed that vocation until he 
was appointed superintendent of the Wood- 
working Department of the Soldiers' Or- 
phans' Industrial School at Scotland, Pa. 
He was married to Miss Annie M. Free- 
burg, of Philadelphia. Six of their seven 
children are living: Ella, wife of D. B. 
Marks; Ettie, wife of I. Miller, broker, 
Third street, Harrisburg ; Thomas M; Eliza- 
beth M.j Mrs. Swartz ; Henry H., Annie M., 
and Edward W., deceased. Both parents re- 
side at Scotland, Pa. The family are mem- 
bers of Messiah Lutheran church, Harris- 
burg. 



Ferriday, A. Reeder, was born at Easton, 
Pa., April 28, 1865. His father, Joseph C. 
Ferriday, was born in Louisiana. He was 
first married to Emma Reeder, of Easton, Pa., 
the mother of A. R. Ferriday, who is the 
only living child by this marriage. She 
died at Easton, May 11, 1865. By the sec- 
ond wife he had five children : Helen, wife 
of Robert A. Byrnes, residing at Natchez, 
Miss.; Jennie, wife of Robert A. Wood, re- 
siding at Natchez, Miss.; Mary Emily and 
B. Pendleton, both residents of Natchez, 
Miss. Mr. Ferriday's father owned and 
operated a large cotton plantation before 
the war, but from 1862 to 1868 he was 
connected with the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Compan}' at Tyrone, Sunbury and Altoona. 
In 1868 he returned to his plantation, 
and continued in the business of cotton 
raising up to within a short time of his 
death. He died on the plantation in 
1894. 

A. Reeder Ferriday spent his youth at 
Easton, Pa. His education was begun in 
the private schools of that city and com- 
pleted at the Hill School of Pottsville, Pa., 
and at Lafayette College, Easton. He re- 
ceived a diploma from the Lafayette College 
in 1887. After completing his education he 
engaged in the manufacture of paints at 
Bethlehem, Pa., in connection with F. G. 



562 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Semple & Co., for two years. At the expira- 
tion of this time he removed to Harrisburg, 
Pa., and was connected with the Harrisburg 
Boiler and Manufacturing Company as treas- 
urer of the company, the duties of which 
office he faithfully and efficiently performed 
for one year. In 1891 he engaged in his 
present business, the manufacturing of paper 
boxes, etc. By his ability, energy and enter- 
prise he has developed the business to its 
present fine proportions and magnitude, and 
has deserved and won a high place in the 
esteem of the community as an honorable, 
skillful and successful business man. 

He was married at Paterson, N. J., Octo- 
ber 25, 1893, to Eulalie Quinn, daughter of 
John and Mary Quinn, of Paterson, N. J. 
Their union has been blessed with one child, 
Constance, born July 30, 1894. 

Mr. Ferriday is a member of the Rho 
Chapter of Chi Phi. In politics he is a Re- 
publican. He attends the Episcopal church ; 
his wife attends the Roman Catholic church. 

Rexroth, G. William, foreman of the 
Harrisburg Traction Company, electric de- 
partment, was born -in Montgomery town- 
ship, Franklin county, Pa., September 14, 
1865. He is a son of Michael and Margaret 
(Mosser) Rexroth, the former a native of 
Germany, and the latter of Franklin county. 
His father was a blacksmith by trade, and 
spent a large part of his life in Franklin 
county. He died at Harrisburg, in 1893. 
His wife survives, and resides in Harrisburg. 
They had born to them a family of nine 
children, the eldest being G. William; the 
others who are living are : Catherine, Albert, 
Ida, Gertrude, Effie, and Ada. 

G. William's youth was spent in his na- 
tive town, where he received his education 
in the public schools. He first began busi- 
ness as salesman in a general store, in which 
occupation he continued for nine years. In 
1887 he removed to Harrisburg. For two 
vears he was salesman in the retail shoe 
business, and in the State Capital laundry. 
In 1889 he became connected with the East 
Harrisburg Street Railway Company, and 
since 1892 has had his present position. 
He was married, at Chambersburg, Decem- 
ber 4, 1891, to Miss Minerva Critchley, daugh- 
ter of Henry and Sarah Critchley. One 
child has been born to them, named Paul 
C. Mr. Rexroth is a member of Baldwin 
Commandery, No. 108, K. of M., of Steelton, 
and of Robert Tippett Lodge, No. 736, Jr. 



0. U. A. M. In political views he is a Demo- 
crat. He attends the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Butler, James, was born in Fairfield, 
Herkimer county, N. Y., November 25, 1865. 
The Butler family from which he descends 
was of Irish nationality. The grandmother 
Butler was a descendant of the Irish patriot, 
Daniel O'Connell. His father, Thomas But- 
ler, was born in Kerry, Ireland, and came to 
this country when he was eight years old, 
and for many years was engaged in cheese- 
making. He was married, in Herkimer 
count}', to Margaret O'Neil, a native of Cork, 
Ireland. She died in 1871, but her husband 
is still living in Little Falls, Herkimer 
county, N. Y. Three children were born to 
them who died in infancy, besides William 
T. and James. 

James Butler received his primary educa- 
tion in the public schools of Norway, Herki- 
mer county, N. Y. He also attended Fair- 
field Academy and graduated in 1884. He 
learned the trade of flour miller and followed 
this business for four years at Little Falls. 
In 1889 he came to Harrisburg and became 
manager of the Star Carpet Cleaning Works. 
In May, 1895, he also opened the Hot Naph- 
tha Cleaning Works. Mr. Butler is an 
active business man, of indefatigable energy , 
and with a perfect knowledge and careful 
oversight of all the details of his business ; 
he convinces his patrons of his consideration 
of their best interests, and wins and holds 
esteem for his integrity and personal worth. 

James Butler was married in Jersey City. 
June 19, 1889, to Carrie E. Kehoe, daughter 
of William and Martha Kehoe, of Little 
Falls. They have no children. Mr. Butler 
was a member of the Fire Department of 
Little Falls. He is a Democrat, and attends 
the Roman Catholic church. 



Hoover, William H, general foreman of 
the Harrisburg Traction Company, was born 
in Franklin county, Pa., December 20, 1866. 
He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Tolsen) 
Hoover. His parents spent their lives in 
Franklin county, where the father died in 
1867, and where the mother still resides. 
William H. is their only child. The family 
are Dunkards. William H. received his 
education in the public schools of Franklin 
county. He learned the carpenter trade. 
In 1887 he removed to Harrisburg and be- 
came connected with the East Harrisburg 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



563 



Railway Company. For the past five years 
he has been the general foreman of the com- 
pany.' He is a charter member of Cincinnatus 
Commandery, No. 96, K. of M.; a charter 
member of Warrior Eagle Tribe, No. 340, 
1. 0. R. M., and of Pocahontas Council, No. 63, 
I. 0. R. M; a member of Herculean Castle, 
No. 480, K. of G. E.; of Harmon Commandery, 
No. 38, C. of G. E., of Robert Tippett Lodge, 
No. 736, Jr. 0. A. U. M. He belongs to the 
Harrisburg Fireman's Beneficial Association, 
and is a member of No. 2 Volunteer Fire 
Company. Mr. Hoover is one of the solid 
men of the city. He is esteemed as an hon- 
orable and upright man. He is very popular. 

Tracy, David E., was born at Consho- 
hocken, Montgomery county, March 11, 
1867. He is a son of James and Margaret 
(O'Brien) Tracy. James Tracy was born in 
Pottsville, Pa., but is now a prominent busi- 
ness man in Conshohockeu, where he has 
resided for upwards of forty years. He has 
been burgess of the town and a member of 
the town council and is a director of the 
First National Bank. He is very prominent 
in business circles and connected with many 
of the enterprises of the city. His mother 
was born near Dublin, Ireland, and came to 
America when she was quite young. Mr. 
and Mrs. James Trac} r had a family of ten 
children, nine of whom are living, namely: 
John C, a partner in his father's business in 
Conshohocken; Henry M., a prominent 
member of the bar in Conshohocken; Cathe- 
rine E.; David E.; George E., paying teller 
of the City Trust Company of Philadelphia ; 
Matthew A., student at Pennsylvania Uni- 
versity, Philadelphia; Margaret, Maria J. 
and Eliza A. 

David E. Tracy received his primary edu- 
cation in the parochial schools of his native 
town. He completed his education at the 
University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, 
receiving his diploma as mechanical engi- 
neer in 1887. He came at once to Harris- 
burg and found a position as mechanical 
engineer with the Harrisburg Ice Machine 
Company. He served in this position three 
years. In 1890, in connection with Messrs. 
Hildrup and Patton, he organized the Har- 
risburg Pipe Bending Company and also the 
Harrisburg Tinsmith Company for the 
manufacturing of all kinds of galvanized ice 
machinery. 

Mr. Tracy was married at Harrisburg, 
September 6, 1894, to Gertrude Hemler, 



daughter of H. D. and Jane Hemler. In 
politics he is a Democrat. He attends the 
Roman Catholic church. 



Boll, Chas. S., president of the Boll Bros. 
Manufacturing Company, was born in Balti- 
more county, Md., on the 6th of October, 
1867. He is a son of Ambrose S. and Mary 
(Cooper) Boll, natives of Baltimore county, 
both now residing in the city of Baltimore. 
Their family consisted of twelve children : 
Micajah, who met death by an accident on 
the Pennsylvania railroad ; Laura J., wife of 
Charles Wood, of Baltimore, died in 1890; 
Annie, died in 1891 ; Fannie R., William 
A., George E., Clara M., wife of W. H. 
Shubkagle, of Baltimore, John W., Charles 
S., E. Frank, and two who died in infancy. 

Chas. S. Boll was but four years old 
when his parents removed to Baltimore; a 
year later they left the city, and again re- 
sided in the county of Baltimore, until 
Charles was eleven. They then returned to 
the city, and he attended its public schools 
for the next four years. At the age of 
fifteen, the boy began business as an em- 
ployee in a mattress factory ; one year and a 
haff later he was appointed foreman, and at 
the end of two years more, his ability was 
recognized by his promotion to the position 
of manager of the factory. In 1885, when 
only eighteen, Mr. Boll came to Harrisburg 
to assume the management of a branch 
house for the firm by which he was em- 
ployed, and managed the business success- 
fully until October 5. 1889. At this time lie 
purchased the business, and admitted his 
brother, John W. Boll, as a partner. The 
beginning was modest, and the new enter-' 
prise was handicapped by want of space, fa- 
cilities and capital. But courage and care- 
ful management, with honesty and sincerity 
of purpose, soon placed the business on the 
road to prosperity, notwithstanding many 
discouragements and the strongest competi- 
tion. It steadily increased, although seri- 
ously interrupted, in 1890, by a disastrous 
fire. One building after another was out- 
grown, until it became necessary to erect the 
handsome structure now occupied, at Tenth 
and Mulberry streets, and the firm now 
stands at the head of the mattress, ^spring 
bed and brass and iron bedstead business, 
with a national reputation. In 1892 Mr. 
William A. Boll also was admitted to part- 
nership, and the title of the Harrisburg 
Woven Mattress Company was adopted by 



564 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the firm. In 1893 the business was incor- 
porated as the Boll Bros. Manufacturing 
Company, with a capital of $100,000, Chas. 
S. Boll being president, John W. Boll, treas- 
urer, and William A. Boll, secretary. 

Notwithstanding the demand that the de- 
velopment of this large business has made 
on Mr. Boll's time and abilities, he has given 
his influence and encouragement to others. 
He early recognized the power for good pos- 
sessed by the Board of Trade, and con- 
nected himself with that organization. His 
activity in promoting its influence and in- 
creasing its membership soon made him a 
prominent factor, and he was speedily rec- 
ognized as a public spirited citizen of extra- 
ordinary zeal and ability. Mr. Boll was 
elected president of the Board of Trade 
January 21, 1896. His election is justly re- 
garded as a becoming tribute for his many 
services in behalf of the Board in this city, 
and as a token that his many good qualities 
are highly appreciated by his fellow-citizens. 
Mr. Boll is president of the Boll & Shaar 
Manufacturing Company, Steelton, Pa. ; 
vice-president of the Barcalo & Boll Manu- 
facturing Company, Buffalo, N. Y., and vice- 
president of the Ridley Park Brick Com- 
pany, Philadelphia, Pa. His politics are 
Republican. 

Chas. S. Boll was married, in Harrisburg, 
Pa., May 12, 1891, to Carrie S., daugh- 
ter of William and Charlotte M. Wykoff, 
old and honored residents of this city. 
Their children are: Charles Wykoff and 
Robert Ambrose. He and his family are 
connected with Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church. Mr. Boll is second vice-president 
of the Fourth General Conference district, 
Epworth League, which includes four States. 
He held the presidency of the local society 
for four years. 

John W. Boll, treasurer of the company, 
passed away, August 22, 1896, after an ill- 
ness of eight months, leaving a widow and 
two children. 



Jennings, William, president of the Har- 
risburg Steam Heat and Power Company, 
was born in this city, August 18, 1868, and 
is a son of Col. William W. and Emily 
Jane (Vanhorn) Jennings. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools of Harrisburg 
and at Lehigh University. After completing 
his education he was employed as a moulder 
and machinist for one year. In 1889 he was 
appointed secretary and treasurer of the Har- 



risburg Steam Heat and Power Company, 
and in May, 1894, was made president of the 
same, and has been instrumental in bringing 
this industry into a prosperous condition. 

Mr. Jennings was married, October 13, 
1892, to J. Belle West, daughter of Rev. Will- 
iam A. and Jennie West. They have one 
child, Dorothy. He is a member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M. He is a 
Republican in politics, and with his wife at- 
tends the Presbyterian church. 



Jennings, Harry, secretary and treasurer 
of the Jackson Manufacturing Company, was 
born in Harrisburg, March 31, 1872. He is 
a son of the late Col. W. W. and Emma Jane 
(Vanhorn) Jennings. After receiving his 
primary education in private schools, he 
spent four years in the Military College of 
Chester, graduating from this institution in 
1890 with the degree of Civil Engineer. In 
the fall of 1890 he entered Phillips Academy, 
Andover, Mass., and graduated from this in- 
stitution with the class of 1893. He returned 
to Harrisburg, and in October, 1893, was 
elected to his present position, taking charge 
of the office in January, 1894. 

He is a member in good standing of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M. In politi- 
cal views Mr. Jennings is a Republican. He 
attends the Methodist Episcopal church. He 
is unmarried. 



Leedy, Daniel, deceased, was born in York 
county, Pa., in 1819. He removed to Cham- 
bersburg, Pa., where he learned the trade of 
wagon maker. He came to Harrisburg in 
1840, and was for a time employed by John 
Dimmick, who was engaged in manufactur- 
ing the " Woodcock Plough." He subse- 
quently purchased the business and con- 
tinued it until 1851 or 1852, at which date 
he relinquished the enterprise and estab- 
lished a shoe business on Market street, near 
the present entrance to the Pennsylvania 
railroad station, in which he was engaged 
until the fall of 1861, when he removed to a 
farm in Franklin county. In 1863 he re- 
turned to Harrisburg and for a year and a 
half was engaged in the shoe business at the 
corner of Fourth and Market streets, after 
which;he removed his store to the new build- 
ing he had erected on the corner of Fifth and 
Market and continued there until he retired 
from business in 1870. His death occurred 
in 1886. Mr. Leedy was one of the stock- 
holders in the first Harrisburg Passenger 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



565 



Railway Company. He was somewhat active 
in political matters in connection with the 
Republican party, having served as a mem- 
ber of the city council from the Ninth ward. 
His church membership was formerly with 
the Locust Street Methodist Episcopal 
church, but later he joined the Ridge Avenue 
church and was the chorister for some years. 
Mr. Leedy was married to Miss Louisa Pey- 
ton, daughter of Chambers Peyton, of Cham- 
bersburg, who survives him. They reared 
three sons and three daughters: William, 
shoe dealer, deceased ; Margaret, Mrs. J. H. 
DeHaven, of Harrisburg ; John W. ; Laura, 
Mrs. A. 0. Irvin, Washington, D. C; Mary L., 
Mrs. W. L. Calder word , Ph ilaclel phia ; Daniel, 
Jr., deceased, a private in the United States 
army, afterwards in the shoe business in 
Harrisburg. John W. was born November 
23, 1844, and received his education in the 
public schools. He was employed in his 
father's store until his retirement, in 1870, 
when he succeeded to the business, which 
he conducted for eighteen years. In 1888 
he gave up the shoe business and embarked 
in the manufacturing of building and pav- 
ing brick, in which enterprise he has been 
successfully engaged since that time, supply- 
ing the home demand and making large 
shipments to other towns. Mr. Leedy is not 
active in politics, but his sentiments are in 
agreement with the Republican party. He 
was married in 1866 to Miss Clara May, of 
Juniata county, who died in 1890. Their 
children are : Alda, Fannie, Louisa, Frank, 
and Mary. The family are members of the 
Ridge Avenue Methodist Episcopal church, 
in which Mr. Leedy holds the office of presi- 
dent of the board of trustees. 



Whiteside, George A., carriage maker, 
was born in Harrisburg, September 12,1830. 
Son of John E. and Ruth E. (Allen) White- 
side. The father was born in that portion 
of Dauphin county which is now included 
in Lancaster county, and subsequently set- 
tled in Harrisburg. The mother was a na- 
tive of Dauphin county. George A. attended 
the public schools of the city and when 
seventeen years old removed to Cincinnati, 
Ohio, where for two years he was a salesman 
for his brother in the hardware business. 
He then returned to Harrisburg and served 
an apprenticeship at carriage building with 
William Parkhill. In 1852 he removed to 
Philadelphia where he worked eight years 
at his trade, and then went to Wilmington, 



Del., and was engaged at his occupation un- 
til the breaking out of the war depressed 
business and threw him out of empWment, 
when he went to Mechanicsburg and re- 
mained until 1868, in which year he returned 
to Harrisburg and established a business of 
his own. For twenty -seven years he has 
been successfully engaged in his line of trade 
in this city. Mr. Whiteside was married to 
MaryE Webb, of Philadelphia, to whom have 
been born four sons : William W., died at 
Harrisburg, at the age of thirty-one years; 
George A., resides in California; John Elton, 
civil engineer and surveyor, of Harrisburg; 
Harry I., resides in Jersey City. Mr. White- 
side was married, secondty, to Kate E. 
Stucker, by whom he had one child, which 
died in infancj'. He is a member of the A. 
O. U. W. In politics he is liberal. The family 
attend the Lutheran church. 



Bowers, Edwin, carriage and wagon 
manufacturer, was born in Hummelstown, 
Dauphin count}', Pa., March 15, 1841, son of 
Amos and Sarah (Longenecker) Bowers, the 
former a native of Dauphin county and the 
latter of Lancaster county. The father was 
a life-time resident of Dauphin county, and 
was a carpet weaver and butcher by occu- 
pation. He died at Hummelstown and his 
wife died at Harrisburg, March 18, 1892, 
aged eighty years. They had ten children, 
five of whom are living: Mary, wife of Cor- 
nelius Fisher, residing in Muscatine, Iowa ; 
Harry, residing in York, Pa.; Edwin, Mi- 
chael, Harrisburg; Addie, matron at Penn- 
sylvania railroad station. 

Edwin was reared in Hummelstown and 
received a limited education in the common 
schools of that place. He learned the trade 
of blacksmith, and worked at that occupa- 
tion in Hummelstown until he was twenty 
years of age, when he removed to Harris- 
burg, where he was in the employment of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company about 
one year. He then entered the employment 
of the LTnited States Government at Wash- 
ington, D. C, and in 1865 went West with 
supply trains, and was engaged in distrib- 
uting supplies to the various militar}' posts 
until 1867, during which year he worked at 
his trade in Iowa. The same year he re- 
turned to Hummelstown, where, until 1871, 
he followed his occupation, when he re- 
turned to Harrisburg, and for the past 
twenty-four years has been engaged in busi- 
ness in this city. Mr. Bowers was married 



566 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



at Harrisburg, in 1879, to Phebe Dilvey, 
daughter of Amos and Hannah (Hess) Dil- 
vey, widow of the late. Miles Dilvey. Their 
children are : Jessie, Helen, Edna, and two 
who died in infancy. By her first marriage 
Mrs. Bowers has one son, Miles. Mr. Bowers 
is a member of City Lodge, No. 301, I. 0. 
0. F. In his politics he is a Prohibitionist. 
He and his wife are members of the Ridge 
Avenue Methodist Episcopal church. 



township. Their children are: Ida J., wife 
of George Hoak, residing at Painted Post, 
N. Y., Inez C, Effie J., George A., Eliza J., 
Edith A., Alfred H., Charles A. and Spencer. 
Mr. Shaffer is a sound Democrat. He and 
his family attend the Reformed church. 



Shaffer, Clinton E., was born in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 12, 1841. His father, Elias Shaffer, 
was born in Susquehanna township but re- 
moved to Lower Paxton at an early date in 
the history of that township. He followed 
the business of carriage-making in that 
township for fifty-three years. He is still 
living at the advanced age of ninety-one, 
and has been actively engaged in business 
to within a period of one year. He is one 
of the oldest and most highly esteemed res- 
idents of the township. Elizabeth (Shiftier) 
Shaffer, his faithful wife, and mother of the 
subject of this sketch, was also born in Sus- 
quehanna township. She died in 1881. 
They had a family of seven children, of 
whom five are still living : Rebecca, wife of 
Samuel Dasher, residing in Harrisburg; Al- 
fred and Levi, residing in Napierville, 111.; 
Eliza, wife of Jacob Bishop, residing in 
Lower Swatara township, Dauphin county, 
and Clinton E. 

Clinton E. Shaffer spent his boyhood in 
his native township, where he received a fair 
education in the public schools. At an early 
age he became an apprentice to the carriage 
maker's trade in his father's shop, at which 
trade he worked in Lower Paxton until 
1862. In this year he removed to Harris- 
burg and engaged in business for himself. 
He has occupied his present premises for 
over twenty-three years, where he has built 
up a large and profitable business. Trained 
from youth in this business, and devoting 
his entire business career of thirty-three 
years to its management, his success is in 
the natural order of things. He is one of 
the oldest men in the business in the city, 
and is universally esteemed as a citizen and 
a man. 

He was married at Harrisburg, October 9, 
1862, to Wilhelmina, daughter of George 
and Mary Hocker, both long residents and 
highly respected citizens of Susquehanna 



Attick, Oliver, carriage and wagon 
maker, was born atMechanicsburg, Cumber- 
land county, Pa., September 6, 1843 ; son 
of George and Hester (Steese) Attick, the 
former a native of Cumberland county and 
still living at the advanced age of eighty- 
two years, the latter a native of Dauphin 
county and died in 1891. The father carried 
on the carriage making business at Mechan- 
icsburg for some forty years. He had six 
children, four of whom are living : John, 
residing in Mechanicsburg ; Sarah J., wife of 
Edward Boyer, of Harrisburg; Oliver, and 
Harry, residing in Mechanicsburg. Oliver 
received his education in the public schools 
of his native place, and when seventeen 
years of age came to Harrisburg and became 
clerk in a store. In 1862 he enlisted in com- 
pany A, First City Zouaves, of Harrisburg, 
in which he served nine months. He was 
then employed oue year as a clerk in Wash- 
ington, D. C., and in 1864 enlisted in the 
Seventy-eighth regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, in which he served until the close 
of the war, and was mustered out of the ser- 
vice at Nashville, Tenn., in October, 1865. 
He then returned to Harrisburg and for nine 
years was engaged in carriage smithing. In 
1874 he opened a shop for the manufacture 
of carriages on his own account, which he 
conducted for two years, and in 1876 ad- 
mitted Edward Boyer to a partnership, form- 
ing the firm of Boyer & Attick, which con- 
ducted the business for eight years. In 1884 
Mr. Boyer retired from the firm, since which 
date Mr. Attick has conducted the business 
solely in his own interests. He was married 
in Harrisburg in 1868 to Emma Stouffer, 
daughter of Henry Stouffer, to whom have 
been born two daughters: Esther and Carrie, 
both residing at home. Mr. Attick is a mem- 
ber of Post No. 58, G. A. R., and has been 
an active member of the Odd Fellows for 
twenty-five years, having filled all the offices 
in his lodge. He is also a member of A. 0. 
U. W., No. 19, and since 1S68 has been con- 
nected with Council No. 106, 0. U. A. M. 
The family attend the Presbyterian church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



567 



Dill, Irvin W., carriage manufacturer, 
was born in Dillsburg, York county, Pa., 
March 24, 1865, son of Wesley and Louie R. 
(Naugle) Dill, both natives of York county, 
the former deceased, the latter residing in 
Harrisburg. He removed to Harrisburg 
with his mother in early youth, and received 
his education in the city schools. He learned 
the trade of carriage maker, and on January 
1, 1892, engaged in business for himself at 
the east end of the Mulberry street bridge. 
He was married in Harrisburg, December 
31, 1894, to Lillie Frank, of Harrisburg. Mr. 
Dill is a member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 
21, F. & A. M. In his political views he is 
a Republican. He attends the Baptist church. 

Bailey, Hamilton, patentee of the cele- 
brated Eureka coal wagon, was born in 
Scotland, June 8, 1833, and is a son of James 
and Mary (Hamilton) Bailey, who were also 
natives of Scotland. He received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of Schuylkill 
county, Pa., having been brought to Amer- 
ica -in early boyhood. At Tremont, Schuyl- 
kill count}', he learned the trade of wheel- 
wright and blacksmith with Silas Ball of 
that place. In 1858 he began business for 
himself in the county where he learned his 
trade, and his business career, extending over 
a period of nearly forty years, has been one 
of satisfactory results. He patented the 
Eureka coal wagon, and is now devoting his 
time to its sale together with that of wood 
and coal in Harrisburg, where he has been 
living for a number of years. Mr. Bailey is 
a Republican in politics and takes a deep 
interest in public affairs, although not an 
office seeker. He is a member of the Knights 
Templar. He was married to Catharine, 
daughter of George and Margaret (Wright) 
Pinkerton, by whom he has three children: 
Dr. Milton R, Arthur Hamilton, and Min- 
nie Elizabeth. Mr. Bailey and family ad- 
here to the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Redmond, Andrew, carriage, wagon and 
harness dealer, was born in the province of 
Ulster, county Down, Ireland, August 26, 
1868. He is a son of Thomas H. and Jane 
(Redmond) Redmond, both natives of Ulster. 
The father emigrated to this country in 
1880, and for the past fourteen years has 
been in the employment of the Pennsylva- 
nia Railroad Company. The mother and 
remaining members of the family came to 
America in 1882. The family consists of 



four living children : Thomas H, Andrew, 
Joseph and Lizzie J. Andrew was educated 
in the common schools of his native coun- 
try. When fourteen years of age he came to 
the United States andlocated in Harrisburg. 
In 1882 he learned the trade of baker, and 
worked at this trade for three years. In 
1885 he engaged in this business for him- 
self. In 1889 he engaged in his present 
business, and, although tested by fire and 
water, his efforts have been crowned with 
success. He has one of the finest and best 
stocked establishments in the region. His 
cardinal principles of business are the best 
goods, directly from the best manufacturers, 
bought on the best terms and sold to patrons 
on the lowest honest margin, and he finds 
these winning principles. He was married 
at Harrisburg, June 20, 1894, to Anna B. 
McFadden, daughter of Samuel and Mary 
McFadden, of Harrisburg. He is a member 
of Egyptian Cominandery, No. 114, Knights 
of Malta. In politics Mr. Redmond is a Re- 
publican. He and his wife attend the Mar- 
ket Square Presbyterian church. 

Sankey, James W., wholesale saddler, 
hardware and harness dealer, Harrisburg, 
Pa., was born in Millheim, Centre county, 
Pa., April 13, 1833. He is a son of the late 
John and Catherine (Kryder) Sankey. The 
Sankey family is of Scotch-Irish ancestry. 
John Sankey, father of James W., was born in 
Scotland in 1793, and came to America when 
he was eight years old. His parents died 
and he was bound out by one of his uncles 
as a tanner's apprentice, at Millheim. Ac- 
cording to the articles of agreement, he was 
to serve until he was twenty-one. When 
nearing the end of his apprenticeship, he 
was offered a paying position with another 
tanner in the same town. But his employer 
refused to let him leave his service, and as 
an inducement to him to remain and com- 
plete his time, agreed to admit him to part- 
nership as soon as he became of age. This 
promise was fulfilled, and became a partner 
in the business. The partnership continued 
until the former employer retired from busi- 
ness on account of advancing age. Mr.San- 
key carried on the business until his own re- 
tirement in 1861. He died in 1865, after an 
active, useful and successful life, aged seventy- 
five years. He was succeeded in business by 
his son Cyrus K. 

The mother of James W. Sankey was born 
in Centre county, Pa., about two miles from 



568 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Millheim. She was a daughter of Jacob 
Kryder, for many years associate judge of 
Centre county, and a personal friend of Gen. 
Andrew Jackson. She died at Millheim in 
1854. The parents were married in Centre 
county. They had twelve children, four of 
whom are living: Jacob, a retired tanner, 
living in Philadelphia; John, a retired 
tanner, in Mifflin, Pa.; Mary Ann, wife of 
Aaron Wolf, a banker of Iowa and Nebraska, 
residing at Freeport, 111.; and James W. 

James W. Sankey spent his boyhood on 
the home farm and received his education 
in the public schools of his native town. 
He learned the trade of tanner with his 
father, and followed it until 1879, doing 
business in Light Street, Columbia county, 
Pa., twenty-seven years, after which he re- 
tired from business. In 1879 he made a 
trip of nearly eight thousand miles through 
the western part of the United States and 
into Mexico, traveling most of the distance 
in a wagon, and occupying eleven months 
in the trip. In 1880 he returned to Harris- 
burg, the point from which he had started 
the year before. Here he engaged in busi- 
ness at 823 Broad street, and has conducted 
it with energy and success. He ranks among 
the most substantial and enterprising busi- 
ness men of the city. His career is an object 
lesson to young men. From his example 
they can discern that personal qualities have 
more to do with success in life than favor- 
able beginnings and fortunate circumstances. 

Mr. Sankey was married at Light Street, 
Pa., November 29, 1857, to Harriet, daugh- 
ter of John and Martha Melick, of Light 
Street, They have one child, Emma C, 
who resides with them. 

Mr. Sankey is a good straight Republican. 
He is not an office seeker, but prefers to de- 
vote his time and attention to his business. 
He is an active member of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M.; Perseverance 
Chapter, No. 21, and Knights Templar, of 
Harrisburg. He and his family are mem- 
bers of Grace Methodist Episcopal church. 

Walmer, Noah A., was born in East Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., March 
22, 1841, son of John and Mary (Albert) 
Walmer. George Walmer, grandfather of 
Noah A., was born in Dauphin county, as 
were also his parents. He was reared on the 
farm and was a farmer by occupation. He 
was twice married and by his first wife had 
nine children, who have all passed away: 



Michael, William, John, Kate, wife of Thomas 
Allen, Jacob, George, Maria, wife of George 
Daubert, Joseph, and Eliza, first wife of 
George Daubert. The grandfather died in 
September, 1S65, aged seventy-five years. By 
his second wife he had four children : Lydia, 
wife of M. Welmire, Adam, Cyrus, and 
Washington, deceased. John Walmer, father 
of Noah A., was born in Lebanon county, 
Pa., March 28, 1817. He married Mary Al- 
bert, born in East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, March 30, 1815. He was a 
farmer and followed that occupation until 
1866, when he retired and removed to Leba- 
non, where he died, February 26, 1895, aged 
seventy-eight years. He was a Republican 
in politics and served as school director, sup- 
ervisor and in other offices in Lebanon 
county. He had thirteen children, twelve of 
whom are living: Margaret, wife of John 
Martz ; Noah A.; Mary M., wife of Gordin 
Bomgardner ; Louisa, wife of Daniel Siegrist; 
Elmira, wife of Daniel R. Mills; Albert J.; 
EmmaG; Zachariah Light; John G.; Erwin 
J.; Ida L., wife of Ed wart Rauch; Clara V., 
wife of Elmer E. Embach ; Fidelia E., wife 
of George E. Gilbert; Sara E., wife of Joseph 
Eustis, died in February, 1887, aged forty- 
nine years. Mr. Walmer was a consistent 
member of the United Brethren church. 

Noah A. attended the public schools of 
East Hanover township at intervals until he 
was sixteen years of age, when he went to 
learn the harness making trade with P. T. 
Hummel at Hummelstown, with whom he 
served an apprenticeship of four years. He 
enlisted for nine months in company D, One 
Hundred and Twenty-seventh regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and having served 
his term of enlistment was discharged May 
31, 1863. He then returned and worked with 
his father on the farm for one year, after 
which he worked at his trade at Hummels- 
town and Harrisburg until 1864, when he 
went to Philadelphia and was engaged on 
Government work until the close of the war. 
After this he worked at his trade one winter 
at Hummelstown, and was then in partner- 
ship with Mr. Stecker for five years, when he 
bought his partner's interest and engaged in 
business for himself. After a time he sold 
out his business and engaged again with Mr. 
Hummel, with whom he worked for thirteen 
years. Mr. Walmer was married October 26, 
1869, in Grantville, East Hanover township, 
to Miss Emma E. Sherk, daughter of Henry 
B. and Mary (Swoop) Sherk. Their chil- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



569 



dren are: Howard C, Mary, Edith M. and 
Harry S., died August 11, 1876, aged five 
years. Since his marriage Mr. Walmer has 
been engaged in harness making in Harris- 
burg. He is a member of Lodge No. 69, 1. 0. 
0. F.; Lodge No. 59, K. of P.; Post No. 58, 
G. A. P., and of the Improved Order of Hep- 
tasophs. In his political views he is a Re- 
publican. He is a member of the United 
Brethern church. Mrs. Walmer was born 
May 14, 1846, and died April 24, 1895. Her 
parents were natives of Lebanon county and 
engaged in farming. They had six children, 
four of whom are living: Anna, wife of Dr. 
T. N. Beam, deceased ; Mary, wife of Cyrus 
Stoner; Harry A.; Lucy, wife of Charles S. 
Wirt; William C, died in infancy. The 
parents reside on Allison Hill, in Harris- 
burg, where they are living a retired life. 
The grandparents of Mrs. Walmer were 
natives of Berks county, the grandmother 
having died young. Her maternal grand- 
father, Jacob, was a native of Lebanon county 
and a farmer. His children are: Michael, 
Henry B., Amos, Thomas and Katie, Mrs. 
Meyer. 



Breckenmaker, Abram K., harness 
maker, was born in Middlesex township, 
Cumberland county, Pa., September 28, 1852; 
son of P. Lilik and Susan (Kirwin) Breck- 
enmaker. The father was born in Elsorce, 
Wurtemberg, Germany, July 18, 1814, 
learned the trade of weaver and came to 
America with his parents when he was 
eighteen years of age. He has since resided 
in Cumberland county, working at farming 
and weaving, and still survives at the age of 
eighty-two years. The mother was born in 
Queen Anne county, Md., of Scotch-Irish 
ancestr}', and died when Abram P. was an 
infant. They had nine children, of whom 
Abram is the only one living. The mother 
is of the well-known family of Kirwins of 
Maryland. Three brothers were steamboat 
captains, one of whom is Capt. John Kir- 
win, bailiff of the Superior Court of Balti- 
more and a well-known citizen, prominent 
in Masonic circles. 

Abram K. was reared and educated in his 
native township. He learned his trade with 
William Cleaver, of Carlisle, and at the end 
of his apprenticeship removed to Baltimore, 
where he was engaged in steamboating for 
four years. In 1871 he came to Harrisburg 
and worked at his trade as a journeyman 
with Charles Grieb, and after the death of 



Mr. Grieb took charge of the business for the 
widow for two years. In 1883 he bought 
the business, and has conducted it since that 
time in his own interests. He was married 
in Harrisburg, May 29, 1873, to Sarah S. 
Snyder, daughter of Levi and Bridget L. 
Snyder, of Lancaster. Four children have 
been born to them, all of whom died in 
childhood. Mrs. Breckenmaker died Janu- 
ary 3, 1890. In his political views Mr. 
Breckenmaker is a Democrat, and has served 
as member of the council from the Third 
ward for two years. He is a member of Ful- 
ton Council, No. 35, 0. U. A. M. 



Smith, Peter A., harness maker, was born 
in Northampton county, Pa., September 5, 
1863. He is a son of James and Malinda 
(Flick) Smith. His grandparents were na- 
tives of Pennsylvania. His grandmother, 
on his mother's side, is still living, thougli 
very aged, and resides in Wisconsin. James 
Smith, father of Peter A. Smith, was a native 
of Northampton county. He was a farmer. 
He married Miss Malinda Flick. They had 
thirteen children, nine of whom are living: 
Benjamin, Aliester, Alfred J., Mary, wife of 
George Custabaughta, William H., Peter A., 
Ellen C, wife of Charles Strawmeyer, Elmer 
M., and Harry. Their deceased children 
are: Emma, wife of Benjamin Hockman, 
also deceased ; Rebecca, wife of William 
Hockman ; George, and one child who died 
in infancy. The father died in 1878, aged 
fifty-two years. He was a member of the 
Reformed church. The mother still sur- 
vives, aged seventy -eight; she resides in 
Philadelphia. 

Peter A. Smith was brought up on his 
father's farm. His course in the public 
school was cut short by the death of his 
father, which caused the family to remove 
from the farm. At the age of fifteen he be- 
gan to learn harness making, serving an ap- 
prenticeship of two j'ears with his brother at 
Mauch Chunk, Pa. During the succeeding 
twelve years he worked at his trade as jour- 
neyman for various employers. In 1885 he 
came to Harrisburg, and for about four years 
was in the employ of Samuel Hummel. He 
was married, September 12, 1889, to Miss 
Laura, daughter of Jacob and Kate C. 
Klauser. Of their four children, three are 
living: Helen, Jacob, and Mary. Herman 
died September 5, 1891, aged sixteen months. 
In 1890 Mr. Smith began work for Noali 
Walmer, harness maker, and was employed 



570 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



by him for two years. He worked for one 
year for the Harrisburg Harness and Saddle 
Company. After this he worked at his 
trade for two years with Mr. Keller at Me- 
chanicsburg, Pa., beginning in 1893. He 
then returned to Harrisburg and established 
a business of his own. He has built up a 
large trade in the harness business at the 
corner of Fifth and Walnut streets. Mr. 
Smith is a Republican. He is a member 
of the United Brethren church on Boas 
street. 

Jacob Klauser, father of Mrs. Smith, was 
born in Perry county, Pa. He was a black- 
smith, but after being for some years in this 
occupation he became a farmer; the latter is 
still his calling. He married Miss Kate C. 
Garland, a native of Perry county, by whom 
he had ten children : Frances, wife of Levi 
Swartz ; John ; Jennie, wife of David Rice, 
deceased ; Laura, wife of Peter A. Smith ; 
Alice, wife of Levi Swartz ; Harvey ; Daisy, 
wifeof John Mull; Annie, wife of Sim. Smith; 
Minnie, and one child, who died in infancy. 



Buehler, Jacob, was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., March 20, 1825, son of Martin 
and Ann M. (Schaubhat) Buehler, both na- 
tives of German} 7 . The father was born in 
Eichen, parish of Schopfheim, Baden Ober- 
land, May 19, 1780. He was a weaver by 
trade and resided in German}' until 1817. 
He was married January 10, 1804, to Ann 
M. Schaubhat, born May 18, 1783. 

The paternal grandparents were John 
Jacob Buehler, a citizen of Schlectbach, and 
was burgomeister of Reitbach, and Maria, 
born in Bluem. The maternal grandparents 
were John Schaubhat, born July 9, 1752, a 
weaver, citizen of Eichen, and Barbara, 
died December 30, 1801. The descendants 
of the mother, Anna Maria Schaubhat, were 
Maria Barbara, born August 19, 1781; mar- 
ried July 27, 1806, to John George Ratz, 
born July 18. 1772, a mason ; came to Amer- 
ica in 1817 with three children, and a step- 
sister, named Anna Schaubhat, who was 
born November 1, 1804. John Schaubhat 
married, secondly, Magdalen Rotzler, widow 
of John George Heckendorn,born in Eichen, 
December 27, 1763, died January 28, 1827. 
The parents had born to them eleven chil- 
dren : John, born January 22, 1805, died 
May 14, 1811; Martin, born April 20, 1806; 
Anna Maria, born October 18, 1807; Anna 
Barbara, born July 24, 1810; Catherina, 
born April 9, 1813, widow of the late Gotlieb 



Laupenschlagel, of Wayne county, Ohio ; 
John George, born April 23, 1815; John, 
born at sea, 1819 ; Nancy, died in 1842 ; 
Mary, died in 1845, and two other children 
who died in infancy. 

Jacob Buehler was reared in Lancaster 
county and received his education in the 
public and private schools, and was engaged 
in mercantile pursuits in that county until 
1859, when he came to Harrisburg, where 
he has been in business continuously since 
that date. He was married in Lancaster, 
Pa., March 12, 1851, to Anna C. Locher, 
daughter of Jacob H. and Mary E. Locher, 
a native of Boonsborough, Washington 
county, Md., and of German ancestry. 
There have been born to them three chil- 
dren : Mary G., wife of H. L. Hershey, recor- 
der of Dauphin county ; Martin H., and 
William E., residing in St. Louis, Mo. Mrs. 
Buehler died September, 24, 1893. In his 
political views Mr. Buehler is a Republican. 
He attends Ziou Lutheran church. 



Urich, Samuel, shoemaker, was born at 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, Pa., May 25, 
1833, son of Solomon and Margaret (Fisher) 
Urich. The father was born in Dauphin 
county, November 21, 1805, and was a shoe- 
maker by trade. He was also engaged in 
the huckstering business, and was also for a 
few years proprietor of the Linglestown 
Hotel, having also previously been in the 
general mercantile business at the same 
place. He married Miss Margaret Fisher, a 
native of the same county, to whom were 
born ten children, five of whom are living: 
George, Joseph, Samuel, Solomon, and Mar- 
garet, wife of Jacob Nichols. Their deceased 
children: Henry, John and Isaac, both 
killed in the army, and Thomas, who died 
in infancy. In his political views the father 
was a Republican. The family were mem- 
bers of the United Brethren church. He 
died at the age of sixty years in 1865. Both 
he and his wife died at their native place, 
Linglestown. Samuel Urich attended the 
public schools, first at Linglestown and after- 
wards at Harrisburg, until he was sixteen 
years of age, when he went to learn the trade 
of shoemaker, at which he served an ap- 
prenticeship of five years with Peter Saunders 
at Harrisburg. He worked at his trade as a 
journeymen for about six months, when he 
entered the employment of John Edwards, 
with whom he worked at intervals for about 
nine years. He then worked for Gen. Knipe 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



571 



two years, after which he was employed for 
the same length of time by Meyers & Jauss. 
He was married at Harrisburg, September 
20, 1853, to Miss Catherine Longnecker, 
daughter of John and Christian (Hummel) 
Longnecker. Mr. Urich worked for Samuel 
Barnhard for one year and then engaged in 
business for himself at No. 1329 James street, 
where he continued until 1893, when he re- 
moved to No. 1815 North Third street and 
established a large trade. He was also en- 
gaged in the huckstering business a short 
time. Mr. Urich has been a member of 
Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. 0. F., for 
forty years. In his political views he is a 
Republican. Mrs. Urich was born February 
18, 1835. Her father was a native of Dau- 
phin county and married Miss Christiana 
Hummel, a native of the same county. They 
reared seven children, five of whom are liv- 
ing: Eliza, William, Mary, Margaret, and 
Sarah. 



of Lodge No. 59, K. of P., and is also con- 
nected with Post No. 58, G. A. P. In his 
political sentiments he stands with the Re- 
publican party. His church membership is 
in the Fourth Street Lutheran church. 



Frank, Charles, boot and shoe dealer, 
was born in Philadelphia February 1, 1839; 
son of Jacob and Mary (List) Frank. When 
he was six years old he removed with his 
parents to Columbia, Lancaster county, where 
he attended the public schools until he was 
sixteen years of age. In 1855 he came to 
Harrisburg and entered the employment of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, first 
serving an apprenticeship as a wood coaker 
and remaining with the company seven 
years. In 1862 he enlisted in company B, 
One Hundred and Twenty-seventh Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, and served ten months 
and then reenlisted for three months, serving 
in Tennessee on detail with the construction 
corps in the position of assistant foreman of 
a construction gang. During his term of 
enlistment he participated in many import- 
ant engagements, among which were the 
battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellors- 
ville. After his discharge from the army he 
returned to the employment of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company, where he remained 
until 1869, when he embarked in the boot 
and shoe business at the present location, 
where he has been engaged in a very suc- 
cessful trade for over twenty-seven years. In 
1876 he also became a member of the firm of 
Forney Bros. & Co. and continued his con- 
nection one year. Mr. Frank is one of the 
organizers and a stockholder of the Chestnut 
street market house. He is identified with 
the Masonic fraternity, is a charter member 



Meily, George W., dealer in boots and 
shoes, was born in Mechanicsburg, Cumber- 
land count}', Pa., January 16, 1846, son of 
Samuel and Catherine (Boyer) Meily. The 
father is a native of Lebanon county ; the 
mother is a daughter of General Boyer, 
near Rockville, Dauphin county. The 
father was in the grocery business, at Cham- 
bersburg and Mechanicsburg, and in 1853 
came to Harrisburg, where he was engaged 
in the same line of trade, from 1854 to 1859, 
at which date he retired, and died in 1894, 
at the age of eighty-one years. He was 
originally a member of the First Lutheran 
church, but was later prominent and active 
in the organization of the church on the 
corner of Capitol and Herr streets. His 
wife and two children, John H, of Harris- 
burg, a plumber, and George W., survive 
him. George W. received his education in 
the public schools, and early entered upon 
his career as clerk in the grocery business, 
in which he was engaged from 1855 to 1861. 
At this date he united with Jeremiah Hor- 
ner and formed the firm of Horner & Meily, 
which conducted the auctioneer buisness for 
two years. In 1864 Mr. Meily entered upon 
the shoe business, at Nos. 214-216 Market 
street, where he has since enjoyed a success- 
ful and constantly enlarging trade. On 
March 15, of the current year, he occupied 
the spacious store, No. 312 Market street, 
where he does an immense wholesale busi- 
ness, the sales extending to all parts of the 
State. Mr. Meily is a stockholder in the 
East Harrisburg Railwaj r Company. In po- 
litical views he is a Republican. He was 
.married, in 1867, to Emma, daughter of 
Joseph Pinkerton, of Tremont, Schuylkill 
county, Pa., who died in August, 1889. 
They had three children : Albert E., Charles 
Wesley and George Pinkerton. Mr. Meily 
is a member of Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church, in which he formerly held a place 
in the board of stewards, and is a member 
of the Young Men's Christian Association. 



Gross, Joshua W., dealer in boots and 
shoes, was born in Harrisburg August 11, 
1847 ; son of D. W. and Elizabeth (Kunkel) 
Gross. He was educated in the public schools 



572 



Bl GRA PHICAL ENCYCL OP EDI A 



and in Seiler's Academy. He then entered 
the drug store of his father, where he re- 
mained fourteen years. He was next em- 
ployed for about five years as bookkeeper at 
the Lochiel rolling mill and the Steelton 
steel works. In 1886 he embarked in the 
boot and shoe business at the present loca- 
tion, No. 207 Market street, where he has 
since continued. Mr. Gross is active in poli- 
tics in connection with the Republican party. 
He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, 
blue lodge, chapter, consistory and com- 
mandery, and also a member of the Royal 
Arcanum. Mr. Gross was married, in 1S80, 
to Miss Almeda, daughter of M. M. Grove, of 
Harrisburg. They have no children. He is 
a member of the First Reformed church. 



Stern, Emanuel, dealer in boots and 
shoes, was born in Philadelphia, Pa.,' April 
23, 1853 ; son of Simon and Caroline Stern. 
He was reared in his native city and edu- 
cated in the public schools and the Business 
College, and then engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness in Philadelphia. In 1870 he came to 
Harrisburg, where he was in charge of the 
branch store of Simon Stern & Son until 
April, 1875, when he established a shoe busi- 
ness for himself at No. 329 Market street and 
continued there until April 1, 1883, and 
then moved to 333 Market street, formerly 
occupied by the State Bank, and finally, in 
April 1, 1894, established himself in the 
retail trade in his present location in the 
Patriot building. Mr. Stern is a member of 
the Masonic fraternity and Chapter of Phila- 
delphia, of the Royal Arcanum and of the 
Ancient Order of United Workmen of Har- 
risburg. In political views he is a Republi- 
can. Mr. Stern was married, February 23, 
1886, to Miss Belle 0. Ettinger, of Baltimore, 
Md. Their children are Moses S., Walter 
L., and Edgar S. He is a member of Ohev 
Sholem church, of Harrisburg, of which he 
is also the principal and the secretary. 



Forney, Clayton C, eldest surviving 
member of the firm of Forney Bros., whole- 
sale dealers in boots and shoes and rubbers, 
was born in Harrisburg, May 29, 1864. He 
is a son of the late John and Caroline (Crum) 
Forney. His father was born in Lingles- 
town, Lower Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., Jul}' 29, 1839. He was a son of 
Henry Forney, who was a native of Dauphin 



county, but of German ancestry. He was 
educated in Linglestown and taught school 
until he was twenty-one years old. He then 
removed to Harrisburg and engaged in the 
retail shoe business until 1865, when he en- 
gaged in the wholesale boot and shoe busi- 
ness until his death, August 5, 1894. His 
wife, mother of our subject, still survives 
him, and resides in Harrisburg. Their chil- 
dren are : Clayton C, C. Harvey, a member 
of the firm and subsequently referred to in 
this sketch ; Minnie M. and Laura A. The 
father served in the select council. He 
was an earnest worker in church mat- 
ters and an elder in the Fourth Street 
Church of God and superintendent of the 
Sabbath-school. Clayton C. received his edu- 
cation in the public schools and Business 
College. He began business as a traveling 
salesman of Forney Bros. & Co. For the 
past eight years he has been a member of the 
firm, which since the death of his father con- 
sists of himself and his brother C. Harvey 
Forney. He was married, October 28, 1886, 
to Miss Lydia J. Lyme, daughter of John C. 
and Mary J. Lyme, of Harrisburg. Three 
children have been born to them, namely : 
Carrie May, John Wilson and Charles Ed- 
ward. He is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M.; of Pilgrim Com- 
maudery, No. 11 ; Harrisburg Consistory ; and 
of Star of America Commandery, No. 113, K. 
of M. In political views he is Republican. 
He attends the Church of God. 



Forney, Christian Harvey, junior mem- 
ber of the firm of Forne}' Bros., was born in 
Harrisburg, May 1, 1870. He was educated 
in the public and high schools of the city. 
He began business with Forney Bros, as a 
traveling salesman. For the past three 
years, in connection with his brother, Clay- 
ton C, he has conducted the present busi- 
ness. He was married in Harrisburg, July 
14, 1892, to Ida Keim, daughter of Samuel 
and Lydia Keim, of Harrisburg. and to them 
has been born one child, named Edgar Wil- 
son. In politics he is a Republican. He 
attends the Church of God. 



Forney, John Wilson, who was a mem- 
ber of the firm of Forney & Stewart, promi- 
nent retail shoe dealers in this city, died 
April 26, 1890, at the age of twenty-eight 
years, leaving a widow and one daughter."R^±l 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



573 



Fleming, Samuel W., bookseller and sta- 
tioner, was born in Harrisbnrg, Pa., Decem- 
ber 11, 1849, son of Robert J. and Sarah 
Ann (Poor) Fleming. The father was born 
in Washington county, Pa., and came to 
Harrisburg when a child. He was reared 
in Dauphin county, and received his educa- 
tion in the public schools. He learned the 
trade of coachmaking, and subsequently es- 
tablished himself in the business. Samuel 
VV. attended the city schools and completed 
his education at Lafayette College, where he 
took a special scientific course, and prepared 
himself for professional work as a civil engi- 
neer, but did not follow the occupation. In 
1875 he embarked in the stationery business 
in which he has continued since that time. 
In his political views Mr. Fleming is a Re- 
publican, and has been prominent in public 
business. He has been a member of the 
common council and has served as president 
of that body, and also has served an unex- 
pired term in the office of mayor of the city. 
He is one of the board of managers of the 
Harrisburg cemetery. Mr. Fleming was 
married, in 1875, to Miss Mary Sauser, 
daughter of B. F. Sauser, of Philadelphia, 
by whom he has three children : Mary, 
Margaret, and Samuel W., Jr. Mr. Fleming 
is a member of Market Square Presbyterian 
church, and of its trustees. 



Scheffer, Thomas Jefferson, was born 
in Harrisburg, Pa., September 1, 1850. He 
is a son of Theodore F. and Louisa (Geety) 
Scheffer. His father was a native of Ger- 
many, and came to Dauphin county when 
a young man. He learned printing with 
Gustavus Peters, and afterwards became a 
member of the firm of Scheffer & Lutz, gen- 
eral printers. Later he was partner in the 
firm of Scheffer & Beck. He made his own 
inks and electrotypes, and was the first man 
in America to print in colors. He printed 
toy books, such as "Cock Robin," " Mother 
Hubbard," etc. He also established a book 
and news store at 21 South Second street. 
He died in 1883, aged seventy. He was 
early enrolled in the State militia. He was 
prominent in the Masonic fraternity and 
the I. 0. 0. F. In politics he was independ- 
ent, and would never accept an office. He 
and his wife belonged to the Lutheran 
church. Mrs. Theodore F. Scheffer was a 
native of Lancaster county. She died in 
September, 1886. She was one of the found- 
ers of the Children's Industrial Home. They 



had nine children : Theodore K., mail clerk ; 
B. Frank, deceased ; George W., printer ; 
Martin L., painter; Louis K., printer ; Em- 
ily D., widow of Capt. George A. Brookes! 
Thomas Jefferson, and Maria, all residents 
of Harrisburg. 

Thomas J. Scheffer was educated in the 
public schools. He learned printing of his 
father, but his health not permitting him to 
follow it, he took up bookkeeping. From 
1875 to 1883 he acted as manager of the 
Daily Patriot, and helped materially to in- 
crease its circulation. After the death of 
of his father, he took charge of his business 
and has since successfully conducted it. 

He is active in the Democratic party. He 
has served two terms in the city council ; 
was chairman of the railway committee, and 
was on the highway, finance and sanitary 
committees of the council. In July, 1895, 
he was elected to the school board from the 
Third ward. He is a member of Grace 
Methodist church. 



McKillips, Alexander, dealer in machin- 
ery and printers' supplies, Harrisburg, Pa., 
was born in' Tuscarora township, Juniata 
county, Pa., February 6, 1851, a son of Will- 
iam and Martha (McCabe) McKillips. The 
McKillips family is of Scotch-Irish ancestry, 
the grandfather of Alexander McKillips 
having been born in the south of Ireland. 
William McKillips was born in Juniata 
county, and his wife, Martha McCabe, in the 
southern part of Ireland. Three of their- 
six children are living: Jane, wife of Daniel 
Keneppe, of Juniata county ; David, of Car- 
lisle, Pa., and Alexander. 

Alexander McKillips attended the public 
schools of his native township, and there 
also learned cabinet making, to which he 
subsequent!}' added organ building. He 
removed to Lancaster in 1872, and resided 
there until 1884, engaged in these two occu- 
pations ; he also conducted a supply busi- 
ness on his own account. During the four 
years following he was employed as foreman 
in planing mills in the counties of Clearfield 
and Juniata. In 1888 Mr. McKillip re- 
moved to Harrisburg, and has ever since 
been actively and successfully engaged in 
business here. He is an active member of 
A T eteran Castle, No. 495, K. of G. E., Harris- 
burg; his son James is a member of Hercu- 
lean Castle, No. 480, same fraternity. Mr. 
McKillips is a Democrat. He was married 
in Port Royal, Juniata county, Pa., January 



574 



BIO GRA PEIGA L ENCYCL 0PED1A 



1, 1874, to Clarissa A., daughter of the late 
James and Mary Shoaff, of Port Royal. Of 
their three sons only one is living, James H. 
James H. McKillips, only surviving child 
of Alexander McKillips, was born in Lan- 
caster, Pa., and received most of his educa- 
tion in the public schools of Port Royal and 
Harrisburg, Pa. At present he is serving 
an apprenticeship to the trade of wood 
working with his father. He is also a dealer 
in all kinds of rubber stamps, seals, etc. 
The family attend Bethlehem Lutheran 
church. 



Hutter, Frank L., bookbinder, Harris- 
burg, Pa., was born in Harrisburg. His 
father, Frank L. Hutter, also a bookbinder, 
was born in Allentown, Pa., in 1829, and 
died in 1879. He married Miss Forney, of 
Harrisburg, born in 1831, died in 1871. 
Their children are : W. H., Frank L., John 
R. Frank L. Hutter, Jr., was educated in 
the Harrisburg schools, being graduated 
from the high school in 1870, and from 
Seder's Academy in 1871. He learned 
bookbinding with his father, and at his 
father's death, succeeded him as proprietor 
of the establishment. In 1876 Mr. Hutter 
enlisted in company D, Eighth regiment, 
National Guards of Pennsylvania (City 
Grays), and re-enlisted in 1881. He was ap- 
pointed inspector of rifle practice in the 
Eighth regiment, National Guards of Penn- 
sylvania, Frank J. Magee, colonel, in 1887 ; 
afterwards he was re-appointed and served 
until 1895, when he was promoted to major 
and ordnance officer, Third brigade, Na- 
tional Guards of Pennsylvania, Gen. J. P. 
S. Gobin, commander. Mr. Hutter is still 
serving under his last appointment. Mr. 
Hutter was married in Harrisburg to Miss 
Marion Fisher, born in Harrisburg. Their 
children are named Rachel and Charlotte. 
Mrs. Hutter's father was born in Lancaster 
county and died in 1866 ; her mother, Mrs. 
Kate (Poist) Fisher, is a native of Cumber- 
land county. Mr. Hutter is a thirty-second 
degree Mason and a member of the Mystic 
Shrine, Lu Lu Temple. His politics are Re- 
publican. His family are Lutherans. 



Stanford, Vincent W., of the firm of 
Roberts, Meek & Co., was born in Frank- 
lin, Venango county, Pa., December 17, 
1862. He is a son of Rev. Wesley M. and 
Rosa (Weimer) Stanford. His father, bishop 
of the United Evangelical church, was born 



in Venango county about fifteen miles from 
Franklin, March 15, 1846. Vincent's edu- 
cation was somewhat interrupted by the con- 
stant moving about of his parents, yet in all 
his classes he stood in the front rank until 
he finally graduated in the high school of 
Harrisburg, Pa., in the spring of 1891, and 
immediately secured a position with the firm 
of Roberts & Meek, wholesale stationers in 
the same city, and three years thereafter be- 
came one of the firm. He was also joined 
in marriage with Miss May Wiest, on March 
13, 1895. Miss Wiest is a daughter of Rev. 
S. L. Wiest, who was elected as publisher in 
the United Evangelical church, by the Gen- 
eral Conference of 1894, and given full 
charge of all their publishing interests, lo- 
cated in Harrisburg. Miss Wiest in addition 
to a common school education also attended 
D. L. Moody's training school for young 
ladies, at Northfield, Mass., for several terms 
before her marriage. In politics Mr. Stan- 
ford is a Republican, and attends the Evan- 
gelical church, of which he is a trustee. 



Meck, Charles S., of the firm of Roberts 
and Meck, wholesale stationers, was born in 
New Bloomfield, Perry county, Pa., Febru- 
ary 16, 1865, son of Joseph H. and Cath- 
erine (Sheaff'er) Meck, both natives of Perry 
county, and residents of Harrisburg since 
1865. His father is employed in the State 
printing office. He served in the army dur- 
ing the late war. His children are: Charles 
S., Warren Z., Zelda M. and Frank L. 
Charles S., when an infant of nine months, 
was brought by his parents to Harrisburg. 
He received his education in the public and 
high schools, and in the business college of 
this city. When he had finished the course 
of studies in the public schools, he entered 
the office of Boyd & Co., coal dealers, be- 
ginning as office boy and advancing from 
one position to another, finally reaching the 
position of assistant bookkeeper. He con- 
tinued in the employment of this firm for 
eighteen years, during which time he com- 
pleted his education by night study and at- 
tendance at the Commercial College. After 
leaving Boyd & Co., he formed the firm of 
Charles S. Meck & Co., and started in the 
wholesale stationery business, continuing 
from July 1, 1890, to April 1, 1891, when 
the firm "of Roberts & Meck was formed, 
which does an extensive business, reaching 
out over the greater part of the State, and 
extending into the adjoining States. Mr. 





\%f. rf^c 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



577 



Meek was married, in Harrisburg, March 8, 
1894, to Miss Flora A. Staffer, daughter of 
Daniel H. and Sarah (Anderson) Staffer, na- 
tives of York county ; the former died Octo- 
ber 29, 1895, while the latter survives, and 
lives in Harrisburg. Mr. and Mrs. Meek 
have one son, Robert S. In his political 
views he is a Republican. He attends the 
Fourth Street Church of God. 



Bergstresser, William J., painter, was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa., February 5, 1836. 
He is a son of William W. and Mary Ann 
(Watson) Bergstresser. John Bergstresser, 
grandfather of William J., was a millwright 
and lived and died in Lykens, Pa. He was 
a member of the Presbyterian church. His 
children were : Samuel, of Mt. Carmel, Pa.; 
Asa; William W.; Mary, Mrs. Shipman, of 
Northumberland county, Pa.; Hannah, Mrs. 
Rumberger, of Lykens, and Mrs. Sprout of 
Lykens. William W. Bergstresser, father of 
William J., was born in Lykens, Pa., in 
1800. He also was a millwright. In 1831 
he married Mary Ann, daughter of Jackson 
Watson. They reared three children to 
maturity : Alexander Watson, William J. 
and Isabella A., Mrs. Martin Keeny, of Har- 
risburg. He settled in Harrisburg in 1831. 
He purchased Carver's mill and conducted 
it for several years. He was an active mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian church, and in pol- 
itics a Whig. He died in Harrisburg in 
1844 ; his wife died in 1842. 

William J. Bergstresser was educated in 
Harrisburg. He learned painting with his 
uncle, Alexander Watson, and became after- 
wards his foreman. About 1862 he began 
contractingon his own account. |Heisthe old- 
est contractor in the city. He is a Democrat 
and represented the Second ward on the 
school board for nine years, and was also 
chairman of the building committee. He 
belongs to the A. 0. U. W. He was married 
December 25, 1857, to Miss Elizabeth, 
daughter of Abram Edwards, of Harrisburg. 
They have six children : Mary, Mrs. Charles 
Foster, of Harrisburg ; Charles 0., of Har- 
risburg ; Sue W., Mrs. J. Clyde Milton, 
Danbury, Conn.; Carrie, Mrs. W. J. Poole, 
of Harrisburg; William E., of Harrisburg, 
and Bertha B. 



maker by trade. George was reared in 
Berks county and learned the trade of 
painter at Reading, Pa. He came to Harris- 
burg in 1858 and worked as a journeyman 
for John Cruikshank from 1860 to 1866, 
when he and Jacob P. Barringer formed a 
partnership under the firm name of Barringer 
& Bannan, and were engaged in contracting 
until 1888. After t wen ty-two years of active 
business, the firm dissolved, having done 
good work on the Capitol, and other import- 
ant structures, and holding a place among 
the leading contractors of the city. Mr. Ban- 
nan is a Democrat in politics, and has been 
the candidate of his party for important 
offices. He was married, in 1860, to Sarah 
J. Kunkle, daughter of George Kunkle, of 
Cumberland county, who died in 1895. 
Their children are : John, plumber, Harris- 
burg; Samuel T., painter, Harrisburg; 
George C, painter, Harrisburg ; William E., 
bricklayer, Harrisburg ; Walter K., painter, 
Harrisburg; and Sally J., at home. Mr. 
Bannan is a member of the Fourth Street 
Lutheran church and is active in church 
work. 



Bannan, George, painter, was born in 
Berks county, Pa., November 5, 1837 ; son 
of John and Elizabeth (Hart) Bannan, na- 
tives of that county. The father was a shoe- 
39 



Barringer, Jacob P., was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., January 10, 1839. He is a son of 
Michael J. and Mary (Parson) Barringer. 
The Barringer family were natives of Alsace, 
France, and were Huguenots. The first of 
the family to come to America was Michael 
Barringer, great-grandfather of Jacob P., who 
settled in Lancaster county, where his son 
Jacob was born. 

Jacob Barringer, son of Michael, of France, 
came to Dauphin county in 1810 or 1811 
and located in Susquehanna township. The 
present site of the Harrisburg cemetery was 
a part of his farm. He was a prominent 
farmer and a leading member of the First 
Reformed church of Harrisburg ; he aided 
in building its first house of worship. He 
was a Whig. He died about 1830. His wife 
was a Miss Palmer, of Franklin county, Pa. 
They had three children : Michael J.; Jacob, 
a printer, who enlisted in the United States 
service, was commissioned sergeant, served 
in the war of the Rebellion with the rank of 
captain, was wounded at Williamsburg, and 
died leaving no issue ; Aaron, died at Har- 
risburg October, 1894, was a house painter 
by trade and for many years a baggage- 
master at the Pennsylvania railroad station. 
Michael J. Barringer, son of Jacob of Lan- 
caster county, grandson of Michael of France, 



578 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and father of Jacob P., was born in what was 
then Susquehanna township but is now the 
Eighth ward of Harrisburg, February 9, 
1816. He learned house and sign painting 
and was distinguished in that line of work. 
He was a member of the Lutheran church. 
He died in 1856. His wife, still living, is a 
daughter of Mrs. Mary Parson, whose family 
(Clark) emigrated from England. They had 
five children : William Clark, printer, who 
resides in New Jersey ; Michael J., printer, 
enlisted in the Eighteenth United States in- 
fantry, served through the war of the Rebel- 
lion, was wounded at Pittsburgh Landing, 
and died in 1882 ; Charles H, of Americus, 
Ga., painter, employed as sign writer by a 
southern railroad company ; Emma R., Mrs. 
Charles C. Schriver, of Harrisburg. 

Jacob P. Barringer was educated in the 
Harrisburg schools. He was several years 
in the drug business, after which he took up 
the family calling of painting. In 1861 he 
enlisted for the three months' service in com- 
pany I, Second Pennsylvania volunteers. In 
1862 he re-enlisted in the "Anderson cav- 
alry," vide the Fifteenth Pennsylvania cav- 
alry, and was discharged in the latter part 
of 1864, on account of disability. He then 
became connected with the quartermaster's 
department and was stationed at Alexandria, 
Va., where he remained until the close of the 
war, and then returned to Harrisburg. In 
1867 he formed a partnership with George 
Bannan in the house and sign painting busi- 
ness, which they conducted until 1890 ; he 
then retired from business on account of 
failing health. 

Mr. Barringer is a Democrat. He served 
two terms in the common council from the 
Fifth ward and was secretary of the highway 
committee. He is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, F. & A. M., of Perseverance Chapter, 
Harrisburg Council, and Pilgrim Comman- 
dery, K. T.; and was a charter member of 
Bayard Lodge. No. 150, K. of P. 

He was married in 1853 to Miss Emily J., 
daughter of William Snyder, of Harrisburg. 
They have no children. He is a member of 
St. Paul's Episcopal church and holds the 
office of treasurer and rector's warden. 



of that county and in the Cumberland Valley 
Institute and White Hall Academy. He 
learned the trade of painter and came to 
Harrisburg in 1859, where he worked at his 
trade two years and then enlistled in 1861 
in company I, Fifteenth regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, as bugler, and served until 
the close of the war. He was attached to 
the Army of the Cumberland and followed 
that body of troops in all its marches and 
engagements under its illustrious leaders, 
Rosecrans, Thomas and Sherman, and went 
with the last named general on his march 
to the sea, having received two wounds dur- 
ing his service. After his discharge he re- 
sumed his trade of painting and followed it 
four years and was then engaged as clerk 
with John Whitman. He subsequently be- 
came a member of the firm and finally pur- 
chased the entire business, which he has 
since conducted alone. Mr. Miller is a stock- 
holder in the Harrisburg Trust Company, 
First National Bank and the Harrisburg 
Electric Light Company. He is prominently 
identified with the Masonic and Odd Fellow 
fraternities. In his political views he is a 
Republican and has served on the board of 
control by appointment one unexpired term 
and one term by election from the Ninth 
ward. Mr. Miller was married, in 1869, to 
Miss Margaret E. Shreiver, daughter of 
Charles Shreiver, of Cumberland county. 
He is a member of the Fourth Street Zion 
Lutheran church. 



Miller, Abraham C, was born in Cum- 
berland county, Pa., December 14, 1842 ; son 
of Abraham and Elizabeth (Shepp) Miller, 
natives of Cumberland county. The father 
was a farmer by occupation. Abraham C. 
was reared and educated in the public schools 



Baker, Matthias G., painter, was born in 
York county, Pa., October 5, 1845. He is a 
son of Daniel and Mar}^ (Greenawalt) Baker, 
natives of York county. His father was 
employed for many years as gatekeeper on 
the York and Harrisburg turnpike. Mat- 
thias G. went, at twelve years of age, to 
Cumberland county, where he was reared 
and educated. In 1862 he enlisted as a pri- 
vate in company F, One Hundred and 
Thirtieth regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, and served nine months. He re-en- 
listed, in 1863, in the one hundred days' ser- 
vice, in company E, One Hundred and 
Ninety-fourth regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers. He participated in the battles of 
South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg 
and Chancellorsville. 

After the war closed, he learned painting, 
in Cumberland county. In 1867 Mr. Baker 
came to Harrisburg, and was employed by 
John Cruikshank, for ten vears. For 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



579 



two years he was a partner with John W. 
Hoerner. Since that time he has been en- 
gaged for himself, in contracting, and is one 
of the leading workmen of the city. 

Mr. Baker was a charter member of the 
Harrisburg Board of Trade, and one of the 
original stockholders of the People's Bridge 
Company. He is a Republican ; has served 
in the common council from the Fifth ward, 
and was on the highway committee. He is 
a member of the Masonic fraternity, from 
the blue lodge to the consistory ; of Dau- 
phin Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. 0. F.; of the 
Knights of the Golden Eagle, and of Post 
No. 58, G. A. B. 

He was married, in 1871, to Miss Emma 
E., daughter of George Eeed, of Hogues- 
town, Pa. His children are: Howard W., 
Emma G. and Eobert E. Mr. Baker and 
family are members of Westminster Presby- 
terian church, in which lie holds the office 
of trustee. 



Fisher, Emory A., was born in York 
county, Pa., October 8, 1849. He is a son of 
Henry and Eliza (Trout) Fisher, natives of 
York county. His father was left an orphan 
at ten years of age. He learned carpentry, 
came to Harrisburg in 1870, and worked on 
the construction gang of the Pennsylvania 
Eailroad Company up to October 9, 1877, 
when he met with an accident at No. 11 
bridge, Tyrone, which caused his death De- 
cember 13, 1877. His wife died in 1873. 
They had twelve children, three of whom 
grew to maturity, and two are now living: 
James B., of Harrisburg, and Emory A. 
Emory A. Fisher received a very meager 
education in the public schools of Cumber- 
land county. In 1864 he hired as a repair 
hand on the Northern Central railroad. In 
1866 he hired to B. F. Lee & Co. to learn 
milling, but owing to the dissolution of the 
firm in 1867 he became apprentice to L. 
Crull, of New Cumberland, to the painter's 
trade, and remained with him until 1870. 
He then came to Harrisburg, and was in the 
employment of J. E. Stoey up to 1872. He 
then engaged in business for himself. The 
first contract he had was to paint house No. 
716 North Third street. He has since been 
one of the leading contractors of the city, 
employing from ten to thirty men. In 1891 
he added to his business a complete stock of 
wall paper. He is a Democrat, with Prohibi- 
tion proclivities. He has served two unex- 
pired terms on the school board. He was 



married in 1875 to Miss Susan, daughter of 
Lewis B. Eaber, of Harrisburg. Their chil- 
dren are: Lewis B., Emory A., Jr., and Lile 
E. Mr. Fisher is a prominent member of 
the Otterbein United Brethren church, and 
was the leading organizer of that church 
society in 1878. He was formerly a member 
of the Boas Street church, but withdrew from 
that church and had man} 7 followers. He 
was the leader of the ;< origiual forty." He 
selected the site of the present edifice, sub- 
scribed the first money toward building it, 
and was active in raising the remainder. 
He was for fourteen years leader of the music 
in the church and Sunday-school. He was 
converted on Christmas eve, December 25, 
1866, in Mount Olivet United Brethren 
church, York county, and joined the church, 
and from that time has held office in the 
United Brethren church, having been super- 
intendent of Sabbath-school for twent} 7 years 
as primary superintendent, at this time su- 
perintendent of the adult department in Ot- 
terbein Sunday-school. He is one of the 
organizers, and the first president of the 
Master Painters' and Decorators' Association 
of Pennsylvania, and was a delegate to the 
national convention held in Buffalo, Feb- 
ruary 12, 1896. Mr. Fisher is strictly a 
self-made man. He started a business in 
1872 on a capital of seven dollars borrowed 
from his mother. He owes his success in 
life to his own efforts. 



Bell, Thornton A., painter, was born in 
Duucannon, Perry county, Pa., May 8, 1850 ; 
son of Thomas G. and Elizabeth (Camp) 
Bell, natives of that county. The father was 
a painter and came to Dauphin county in 
1853, located in Harrisburg and followed his 
occupation until 1865. In 1861 he enlisted 
for three years in the First Pennsylvania re- 
serves as private and was appointed fife major 
and served three years. 

Thornton A. came to Harrisburg with his 
parents when he was two years of age, and 
subsequently removed to Carlisle, where he 
was reared and educated in the public schools. 
He learned the painter's trade with his father, 
and returned to Harrisburg in 1S73, where 
he has since followed his occupation. He is 
one of the principal contracting painters in 
the city and has been employed 'on the State 
work and other important contracts. In his 
political views Mr. Bell is in agreement with 
the Eepublican party. In 1880 he enlisted 
in company D, Eighth regiment, City Grays 



580 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and was made bugler for the company, and 
for two years previous to his enlistment he 
had served in the drum corp of the City 
Grays. He was transferred to General Gobin's 
staff, Third brigade, and was appointed chief 
musician of the brigade. In February 14, 
1870, he enlisted in the Governor's Troop, 
National Guard, served five years and was 
honorably discharged. Mr. Bell is a mem- 
ber of the State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 0. 
0. F. He was married, in 1878, to Miss Flora 
B. Eichelberger, of Cumberland county. 
Their children are: Thomas J., Frank Hun- 
ter, Edward Thornton, Henry Andrew, 
Charles Edwin, Wesley Harrison, Clara Jane, 
and Mary Bell. Mr. Bell is a member of 
Grace Methodist Episcopal church and is 
chairman of the entertainment committee of 
the Men's Bible class. 



Elder, Matthew B., plumber, was born 
in Swatara township, December 19, 1848 ; 
son of Joshua and Nancy (Brown) Elder. 
The father was born in Indiana county, Pa., 
and the mother was the daughter of Thomas 
Brown, of Hanover township. When a 
young man the father came to Dauphin 
county, where he married and engaged in 
farming in Swatara township. He was an 
elder in the Paxtang Presbyterian church. 
Both he and his wife died in Swatara town- 
ship. Their children are: Joshua, farmer, 
of Swatara township; John, of Swatara 
township ; David, Harrisburg ; Elizabeth M., 
Mrs. W. K. Cowden, of Philadelphia; Mar- 
garet B., Mrs. J. Q. A. Rutherford, of Swa- 
tara township ; Eleanor S., Mrs. F. W. 
Rutherford, Swatara township; Matthew B. 
and Matilda, unmarried. 

Matthew B. was reared in Swatara town- 
ship and received his education in Seder's 
Academy. After leaving school he learned 
the trade of plumber, at which he worked 
as a journeyman some years. In 1879 he 
engaged in business for himself, and became 
one of the prominent men in the trade. Mr. 
Elder is a member of the Republican party. 
He was married January 6, 1889, to Miss 
Frances, daughter of John A. Rutherford, of 
Swatara township. They have two chil- 
dren, John R. and Joseph. Mr. Elder is a 
member of the Paxtang Lutheran church 
and is an elder in the same. 



Poole, Washington I., plumber, was born 
in Philadelphia, Pa., July 4, 1851. He is a 
son of William E. and Marion (Gray) Poole. 



William E. Poole was a native of England 
and for many years was a commission mer- 
chant of Philadelphia, where he now resides. 
His wife was a native of Baltimore, Md. 

Washington I. Poole moved to Delaware 
county, Pa., when he was eleven years old. 
Pie was educated in the schools of Philadel- 
phia. He learned plumbing in Camden, N. 
J., serving an apprenticeship of five years, 
after which he worked as a journeyman 
plumber. He came to Harrisburg in 1873 
and in 1874 established his present business 
on Chestnut street. He is considered the 
leading and most practical plumber in the 
city, being equally intelligent and skillful in 
the theoretical and mechanical branches of 
the business. Recognizing the sanitary im- 
portance of his work, he spares no labor or 
pains to free the homes of his fellow-citizens 
entrusted to his construction from the death 
traps of destructive plumbing. 

Mr. Poole is a charter member of the Har- 
risburg Board of Trade. He is a Democrat. 

He was married in 1879 to Miss Ida May, 
daughter of James Gilmore, of Harrisburg. 
She died in 1894, and Mr. Poole was married 
again in 1896 to Miss Carrie, daughter of 
William Bergstresser, of Harrisburg. Mr. 
Poole is a member of the Pine Street Pres- 
byterian church and of the Y. M. C. A. 

Nauss, Christian, plumber and gas fitter, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Harrisburg 
December 5, 1852. He is a son of Christian 
and Christiana (^Kramer) Nauss. His parents 
were born in Germany ; they came to Amer- 
ica in early life and located at Harrisburg. 
His father was first engaged in brewing and 
subsequently in the bakery business; he is 
deceased; his widow is still living; they had 
six children, three of whom are living : 
Christian, Charles, and Kate, wife ©f John 
Sayford, all of Harrisburg. Of the deceased 
children two died in infancy and a son, 
George, at the age of sixteen. 

Christian Nauss has spent his life in Har- 
risburg. His education was received in the 
public schools. He learned plumbing and 
gas fitting, which has been his occupation. 
For six years he was the junior member of 
the firm of Elder & Nauss, and for the past 
seven years has conducted business on his 
own account. 

He was married, in Harrisburg May 18, 
1882, to Abbie Elizabeth, daughter of George 
T. and Anna E. Murray. They have three 
children : George M., Russell G, and Anna E. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



5S1 



Mr. Nauss is an active member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464 ; Perseverance Chapter, 
No. 21 ; Harrisburg Council, No. 7 ; Pilgrim 
Commandery, No. 11, K. T.; standard bearer, 
Harrisburg Consistory, 32°; Lulu Temple, 
Knights of Mystic Shrine, F. & A. M. In 
his political views he is a Democrat. The 
family attend the Lutheran church. Mr. 
Nauss is one of the representative and pro- 
gressive business men of Harrisburg. 



Vaughn, H. Patrick, plumber, gas and 
steam fitter, was born at Harrisburg, Pa., 
February 7, 1858. His parents, Patrick H. 
and Mary M. (Callon) Vaughn, were natives 
of Ireland, but resided in Harrisburg many 
years and were well respected citizens. The 
father died in December, 1883, and the mother 
in 1876. Patrick was educated in the public 
schools of this cit}', and here, also, he learned 
the trade of plumbing and gas fitting, which 
he has made the business of his life, embark- 
ing for himself in the business in 1883. He 
is amply equipped for his business and is 
skillful, reliable and successful. The exten- 
sive contracts he has executed in his line 
speak for him. Among the more prominent 
jobs he has done may be mentioned the 
plumbing apparatus of the executive mansion 
and of the State Senate chamber of this city. 

Mr. Vaughn was married in May, 1878, to 
Emma Frances Smith, daughter of Albert 
and Harriet Smith. They have no children. 
In political views and affiliation Mr. Vaughn 
is a Democrat. He attends St. Patrick's 
Roman Catholic church. It is to Mr. 
Vaughn's credit that in his own city, where he 
was born and brought up and where he has 
spent his whole life, he is universally 
esteemed and regarded as an honorable and 
upright man, and one thoroughly competent 
and reliable in business. 



Marshall, John S., plumbing, gas fitting, 
heating and sanitary drainage, was born 
near Millerstown, Perry county, Pa., May 
31, 1863, son of the late John L. and Mary 
Anna (Wood) Marshall. The father was 
born in West Chester, Chester county, Pa., 
May 6, 1831. and was for a number of years 
engaged in teaching school in Lancaster and 
Chester counties, afterwards removing to 
Harrisburg in 1868, where he was in the 
service of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany until his death by accident, July 5, 
1877, being cut off in early life when his 



future prospects were the brightest. The 
mother was born in Philadelphia, April 15, 
1834, and was married to Mr. Marshall May 
21, 1855. Their children are: Addie T., 
wife of Charles M. Davis, of Harrisburg ; 
Esther D., wife of John Ludwig, of Harris- 
burg; Sallie E., wife of Elmer E. Stacy, of 
Williamsport, Pa.; John S.; Elizabeth, wife 
of Henry Ault, of Lebanon city ; Mary A., 
wife of Charles S. Anderson, of Harrisburg; 
Charles G. and William H. S., of Harris- 
burg. Their children are : Robert M. and 
George M. John S. came to Harrisburg with 
his parents in 1868, where he received his 
education in the public schools and later 
took a course in the business college at Al- 
toona, Pa. He spent four years in other 
parts of the Staje in perfecting himself in 
the several branches of his business, in which 
he has been engaged for fourteen years 
in this city, seven of which he has con- 
ducted business for himself. Mr. Marshall 
is a member of Dauphin Lodge, No. 160; 
a past chief patriarch of Dauphin Encamp- 
ment, No. 10, I. 0. 0. F.; a past sachem of 
Octorara Tribe, I. 0. R. M., and a member of 
Egyptian Commandery, No. 114, K. of M.; 
Octorara Council, Daughters of Pocohontas, 
and a prominent member of the Master 
Plumbers' Association of Harrisburg. In his 
political views Mr. Marshall is a Republican, 
but is not an office seeker. He is a member 
of the Pine Street Presbvterian church. 



McKee, Edward C, plumber and gas 
fitter, was born in Harrisburg, January 23, 
1870. His father, James T. McKee,' was 
born in Centre county, Pa. He was reared 
on the farm, and from boyhood has been 
connected with boating and railroading. He 
came to Harrisburg in 1868, and for almost 
thirty years has been in the service of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company. At pres- 
ent he holds the position of passenger engi- 
neer on the Middle division. He was twice 
married. In his first marriage he was united 
to Miss Sarah Snyder. They had three chil- 
dren: William B., who died in Buffalo, N. 
Y., December 2, 189], and his remains are 
interred in Pine Hill cemetery, Buffalo, N. 
Y.; Howard S., and James T., both residing 
in Harrisburg. His second marriage was to 
Mary Roth, January 12, 1868. By this mar- 
riage there are also three children : Edward 
C, Bertha, who died in infancy, and Sadie 
E., wife of George Keiser, of Harrisburg. 
The mother died July 29, 1884, and her re- 



582 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



mains are interred in the cemetery at Hunt- 
ingdon, Pa. 

Edward C. received his education in the 
public schools of Harrisburg. At the age of 
fourteen he became an apprentice to the 
plumbing trade, and has made this business 
his sole occupation. He engaged in busi- 
ness for himself April 1, 1895. He is a prac- 
tical sanitary plumber. He spent two years 
with one of the best firms of Pittsburgh in 
learning this particular branch of his busi- 
ness, and is abundantly qualified to execute 
work on the most modern and scientific 
plans and principles. He was married in 
Harrisburg, October 21, 1895, to Sarah A. 
Boyle, daughter of Daniel F. and Mary E. 
Boyle, of Harrisburg;. ■ He is a member of 
Cornplanter Tribe, I. 0. R. M., and of the 
Master Plumbers' Association. He is a 
Democrat and attends the Lutheran church. 



King, Anthony, deceased, was born in 
1818, son of Lucy (Auchinbauch) King. He 
was educated iu the schools of that period, 
and began his business life as a clerk in a 
hardware store in Pittsburgh. He came to 
Harrisburg and was in the employment of 
Mr. Fahnestock, as clerk, for many years. 
He embarked in the hardware business, in 
Harrisburg, in which he continued until 
his death, in 1883. Mr. King was a stock- 
holder in the stove factory, and in other 
industries, and was a member of the Board 
of Trade. He was a Republican in his po- 
litical views, and served as a member of the 
city council. He attended the Fourth Street 
Lutheran church. Mr. King was married, 
to Miss Harriet Kunkel, daughter of Will- 
iam and Rebecca (Stine) Kunkel, who died 
in April, 1892. They reared seven chil- 
dren: Rebecca, deceased ; George, of Harris- 
burg; Lucy, Mrs. George T. Ross, of Harris- 
burg; Libbie, deceased; Mary, Mrs. Frank 
Keet, of Harrisburg; Harriet, deceased; 
Carrie, Mrs. Gordon Mullin, of Philadelphia. 



Maeyer, David, of the firm of Fager & 
Maeyer, dealers in stoves, ranges and furnaces, 
was born iu Harrisburg, Pa., December IS, 
1828; son of William and Dorothea Mae} r er. 
He was educated in the public schools and 
learned the trade of tin and sheet iron 
worker, which has been his life occupation. 
In 1854 he engaged in business with Mr. 
George C. Fager in which he has continued 
since that time. Mr. Maeyer was married at 
Harrisburg, April 1, 1856, to Mary A. Win- 



agle, a native of Dauphin county. Their 
children are: Mary A., wife of Howard 
Brown ; Fanny H., wife of Harry Vance ; 
Hummel K., Bertie F. and Sarah, all re- 
siding in Harrisburg. In his political views 
Mr. Maeyer is a Democrat, and has served as 
school director seven years. For forty years 
he has been a member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, and of Perseverance Chapter, and is 
also a member of Pilgrim Commandery. 
The family attend the Lutheran church. 



Compton, Samuel R., hardware dealer, 
was born in Delaware county, N. Y., March 
28, 1835 ; son of John G. and Nancy (Brant) 
Compton, natives of that county. The father 
was a millwright by trade, Samuel R. came 
to Tioga county, Pa., with his parents, where 
his father died when he was fifteen years old 
and where he was reared and received his 
education. He learned the trade of mill- 
wright and followed this occupation in Ly- 
coming and Clinton counties for some years. 
In 1S68 he engaged in the grocery and pro- 
vision business at Lock Haven, Pa., and con- 
tinued there ten years. Subsequently he 
took charge of the hardware firm of Van 
Dyke & Co. for ten years, which position he 
resigned with a view of engaging in business 
for himself at Lock Haven, but was pre- 
vented by the flood of 1889. He came to 
Harrisburg in the fall of the year, where for 
two years he was connected with McCormick 
& Co., and in 1892 established the business 
in which he has continued to the present 
time. In his political views Mr. Compton is 
a Republican. He was married, in 1860, to 
Miss M. J. Robinson, daughter of William 
Robinson, to whom have been born four 
children: John N., with his father; Elmer 
F., bookkeeper at Altoona ; Emma F., and 
William A., at home. Mr. Compton is a 
member of the Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Kline, Daniel, senior member of the firm 
of Kline & Himes, was born in Berks county, 
Pa., June 21, 1839 ; sou of Joseph and Eliza- 
beth (Keen) Kline. The parents were both 
natives of Berks county, where they resided 
until about 1852, when they removed to 
Lebanon county and there spent the remain- 
der of their lives. The father was a farmer, 
and later in life kept a hotel. Their living 
children are: Catherine, Reuben, Joseph, Ed- 
ward, Elizabeth, widow of William Martz, 
ofSteelton, John and David. Their deceased 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



583 



children are: Rebecca, Peter aud Mary 0., 
who all lived to maturity. Daniel, when 
quite young, removed to Lebanon county and 
located near Jonestown, where he received 
his education in the public schools, his school 
daj'S being terminated when he was fourteen 
years of age by the death of his parents, 
which made it necessary for him to start out 
in life for himself. He began an apprentice- 
ship at the tinsmith trade, in Uniontown, 
Dauphin county, which was completed in 
Northumberland county, his employer hav- 
ing removed his business to that county, and 
where he continued to work at his trade as a 
journeyman until 1861. He then removed 
to Harrisburg, where he followed his occupa- 
tion as a journeyman tinsmith for twenty 
years. In 1881 he formed a partnership with 
William G. Zollinger, under the firm name 
of Zollinger & Kline, and engaged in busi- 
ness. Subsequently the firm was succeeded 
by a joint stock company called the Harris- 
burg Stove and Steam Heating Company, of. 
which Mr. Zollinger was the treasurer and 
Mr. Kline the general manager, and which 
continued the business for five years. At the 
end of this time Mr. Kline and Mr. Himes 
formed a partnership and purchased the 
business of J. D. Rowe, and^since 1892 have 
successfully conducted the enterprise. In 
his political views Mr. Kline is a staunch 
Republican. He attends the Methodist Epis- 
copal church. 



Kautz, Samuel H., hardware dealer, was 
born in Lancaster city, Pa., July 12, 1845 ; 
son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Goss) Kautz. 
The father was a coppersmith by trade, and 
followed that occupation through life. He 
removed to Harrisburg in 1861 and entered 
the employment of the old State Line rail- 
road from Philadelphia to Columbia, and 
while in this service he put the first sheet 
iron jacket on an engine on this road. He 
was a member of thePorster Street Lutheran 
church. He died in August, 1883. In po- 
litical views he was with the Democratic 
party, but was not active in political matters. 
Of the eight children born to him six are 
living: John M., of Harrisburg; Eliza, wife 
of Nodell Gully, of Harrisburg; Samuel H.; 
Edward, engineer on Pennsylvania railroad ; 
Joseph, ex-chief of police, Harrisburg; 
George, ex-policeman, of Harrisburg. Samuel 
H. was educated in the public schools and 
the academy of Chester county, Pa., under 
Dr. Junkin, and came to Harrisburg when 



he was sixteen years old. He learned the 
trade of worker in copper, tin and sheet 
iron in the Pennsylvania railway shops 
under M. A. Shattuck, and worked at the 
trade in the employment of the company at 
Harrisburg, Altoona, West Philadelphia, 
Mifflin and Sunbury. In 1871 he engaged 
in the general hardware, tin and stove busi- 
ness, in which he has been very successful, 
building his store and greatly extending his 
trade, and is recognized as the leader in his 
line in the city. In 1864 Mr. Kautz enlisted 
as a private in company E, Two Hundred 
and First regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, and was promoted to company clerk 
and placed on detached duty with the regi- 
ment, stationed at Carp's Mill, on the James 
river. He was honorably discharged from 
the service January 23, 1865, being then 
under twenty years of age. In politics Mr. 
Kautz is a Democrat, and from 1873-75 rep- 
resented the Ninth ward in the common 
council, and served on the ordinance and 
fire committees of that body. He is a mem- 
ber of Post No. 58, G. A. R, and is one of 
the organizers of the Mt. Pleasant Fire Com- 
pany, in which he is chairman of the house 
committee and ex-assistant secretary. Mr. 
Kautz was married in 1868 to Miss Lillie, 
daughter of Richard Sarumungbraun, of 
Juniata county. They have no children. 
He is a member of the Pine Street Presby- 
terian church, and takes great interest in all 
church work, and has been a Sunday-school 
teacher for many years. 

Hogentogler, Chalmers Cooper, hard- 
ware merchant and senior partner in the 
firm of Hogentogler Bros., proprietors of the 
Palace Steam Laundry, was born in Colum- 
bia, Lancaster county, Pa., September 12, 
1855. He is the eldest surviving son of 
Joseph and Esther (Sourbier) Hogentogler. 
Joseph Hogentogler, born in Lancaster 
county, was a prominent and honored resi- 
dent of Columbia, and was for many years 
in the livery business. He died in 1887. 
His wife also was a native of Lancaster 
county. They had five children, four of 
whom are living: Chalmers C; Emma, wife 
of E. R. Hess, of Williamsport, Pa.; Mary, 
wife of C. C. Groff, of Harrisburg, and 
Harry G. 

Chalmers C. Hogentogler was educated in 
the public schools of his native town. Leav- 
ing school in 1870, he was for two years em- 
ployed as a teamster. From 1872 to 1875 he 



584 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



was in the dry goods and grocery business. 
From 1875 to 1883 he was in the service of 
the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad 
Company at Columbia. In 1883 he removed 
to Harrisburg, and became a salesman in 
the hardware business. In 1883 he engaged 
in the hardware business on his own ac- 
count, and in 1892, in connection with his 
brother, he established the Palace Steam 
Laundry. 

He was married in Harrisburg, October 
14, 1885, to Miss Grace A., daughter of Rev. 
Samuel and Susan Yingling, a native of 
Palmyra, Pa. They have no children. Mr. 
Hogentogler is an active member of Per- 
severance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M. His 
political views are Republican. He attends 
the Lutheran church. 

The Palace Steam Laundry, of which the 
Hogentogler Bros, are sole proprietors, is 
situated on North Third street, Harrisburg, 
Pa. It is equipped with the most improved 
machinery and appliances, and with ample 
steam power. It gives employment to a 
number of skilled workmen, and its value 
to the city can hardly be overestimated. The 
concern has ample capital and superior 
facilities, and is in position to guarantee 
prompt and perfect fulfilment of all de- 
mands, and to place all transactions on a 
thoroughly substantial and satisfactory basis. 
Both proprietors are liberal, honorable, and 
enterprising, and justly merit the abundant 
success secured in their important business 
venture. 



Ensinger, Samuel D., hardware dealer, 
was born in Mechanicsburg, Pa., January 
24, 1859 ; son of F. W. and Mary M. (Rey- 
nold) Ensinger, the former a native of Mont- 
gomery county, and the latter of York 
county. The father removed to Harrisburg, 
in 1860, where he was for a short time en- 
gaged in the bakery business. He subse- 
quently entered the employment of John 
Beatty, as a marble finisher and slate mantle 
maker, with whom he remained for twenty 
years, or till near his death, in 1883. In 
his political views he was a Kepublican. 
His wife died in 1879. Both were members 
of the Vine Street Methodist Episcopal 
church. They reared three children : Will- 
iam H., cabinet maker, Harrisburg; Annie 
E., Mrs. John R. Silvius, of Fairview, Pa., 
and Samuel D. The latter came to Harris- 
burg with his parents, when one year old, 
and was educated in the city schools. He 



was for several years a clerk in a dry goods 
store, after which he learned the trade of 
tinner, and in 1885, engaged in business for 
himself, subsequently forming the firm of 
Silvius & Ensinger, which continued the 
business until 1890, when he established his 
present enterprise, on Race street. He is a 
member of the Junior and Senior Orders 
United American Mechanics, Capital City 
Council, and a charter member of the Bene- 
ficial Society. In political views he is a Re- 
publican. Mr. Ensinger was married, in 
1882, to Miss Lydia F. Crownshield, daugh- 
ter of Jeremiah H. Crownshield, of Harris- 
burg, to whom have been born four chil- 
dren : Lee H., Irene E., Grace C. and Bertha 
M. He is a charter member of the Trinity 
Lutheran church, on South Ninth street, and 
takes an active interest in the organization, 
serving as deacon and teacher in the Sun- 
day-school. 



Strayer, Oliver F., hardware merchant, 
was born in Washington township, York 
county, Pa., October 4, 1859 ; son of Cor- 
nelius and Elizabeth (LeRue) Strayer. Both 
parents are natives of York county and still 
occupy the old homestead in Washington 
township. The ifather conducted a tannery 
for many years, but is now engaged solely in 
farming. They have five children, four of 
whom are living : Oliver F.; William O, St. 
Paul, Minn. ; Minnie, wife of Joseph You- 
channaur, of Adams county ; and Alice, wife 
of Milton Spahr, of York county. Oliver F. 
was reared and educated in his native town- 
ship. For three years he was employed as 
a clerk in a hardware store at Dillsburg, 
York county, and then removed to Min- 
neapolis, Minn., where he was engaged as a 
traveling salesman for ten years. After this 
he removed to Mercersburg, Franklin county, 
Pa., where he was in the hardware business 
from 1892 to 1895, at which date he came to 
Harrisburg. Mr. Strayer was married at 
Dillsburg, Pa., March 15, 18S2, to Annie E. 
Spahr, daughter of W. A. and Lydia Spahr, 
of Dillsburg, and to them have been born 
two children : LeRue and Olive May. In 
his political views, Mr. Strayer is a Demo- 
crat. He attends the Presbyterian church. 



Uhler, Frederick B., senior member of 
the firm of Uhler Bros., coffee and spice 
mills, was born in Harrisburg, August 24, 
1866; son of Jeremiah and Margaret A. (Mc- 
Cullum) Uhler: The father is one of the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



585 



oldest living settlers of Harrisburg. 



He 



first worked in the brickyard, afterwards 
was clerk in a bookstore, later was clerk in 
the bank and for fifteen years was cashier in 
the Harrisburg National Bank. Since leav- 
ing the bank he has been engaged in real 
estate. The mother also was a native of 
Harrisburg. They had seven children, of 
whom five are living: Frederick B., Henry, 
Bessie, wife of Dr. A. Frayer, Margaret and 
Mary. Frederick B. lias spent his whole 
life in Harrisburg, and received his educa- 
tion in the city schools. He began business 
for himself when sixteen years of age, form- 
ing a partnership with his brother Henr} r , 
thirteen years old, and conducting a crock- 
ery ware store for six years. For the past 
seven years he has been engaged in his 
present business. He was married in Phil- 
adelphia, June 2, 1890, to Clara E. Pierce, 
daughter of John E. and Catherine Pierce, 
of Perry county. They have three chil- 
dren : Clarence F. and Myrtle, twins, and 
Mar}'. Mr. Uhler is a Republican in politics 
and attends the Messiah Lutheran church. 



Altmaier, Peter A., was born in New 
Bavaria, Germany, February 22, 1828. He 
is a son of the late Peter A. and Gertrude 
Altmaier, who both died in their native land. 
Peter A. Altmaier, the younger, was educated 
in his native country, and there he also 
learned the trade of gunsmith, which has 
been his life-time occupation. In 1850 he 
eft his native countrj' and came to America, 
reaching New York July 22. From there 
he proceeded to Philadelphia, where he lived 
for twelve years. He subsequently lived for 
a short period in Lewistown and Altoona. 
In 1863 he removed to Harrisburg, where he 
has since resided. He was married, in Phila- 
delphia in 1858, to Miss Verona Beary. To 
them have been born three children: Harry, 
residing in Chester; Louise, residing in 
Philadelphia, and a daughter, Mary. Mr. 
Altmaier is a member of the Ancient Order 
of United Workmen. In political views he is 
liberal. He and bis family attend the Re- 
formed church. He is highly esteemed in 
business and in social circles. 



Dill, Harry A., dealer in sporting goods, 
was born in Shiremanstown, Cumberland 
county, Pa., April 20, 1859. He is a son of 
Ambrose H. and Mary (Fackler) Dill. His 
parents have a family of three living chil- 
dren : Harry A., Lida E., wife of John L. 



Miller, and Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Fry, the 
latter two residing in their native town. The 
father is a prominent and respected citizen of 
Cumberland county ; he has acceptably filled 
various township offices, including that of 
burgess of the borough in which he resides. 

Harry A. received his education in the 
public schools of his native town. He learned 
the trade of carpenter with his father and fol- 
lowed this occupation for about seven years. 
During the year 1884 he was ticket agent at 
North Asbury Park, N. J., for the New York 
and Long Branch railroad. In 1886 he en- 
gaged as salesman in the hardware business 
in Harrisburg with R. B. Mather and spent 
three years thus employed. At the expira- 
tion of this time he accepted a position in the 
same capacity with D. McCormick & Co. and 
continued in this place and employment for 
three years. In September, 1894, he engaged 
in his present business. 

Mr. Dill was married, in Harrisburg July, 
1887, to Miss Annie C. Thorley, daughter of 
George and Elizabeth Thorley, natives of 
York county, Pa. This marriage has been 
without issue. Mr. Dill is a member of 
Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. O. F., and of 
Captial City Council, No. 327, Jr. O. U. A. M. 
In politics he is Republican. He attends 
Messiah Lutheran church. The store of Mr. 
Dill is a model emporium in its line. It is 
presided over by a genial gentleman and a 
prudent and progressive business man. It 
is naturally attractive to patrons, because 
they find their wants and interests gener- 
ously provided for. 

Knouse, Franklin, dealer in crockery and 
glassware, was born in Allentown, Pa., No- 
vember 3, 1831 ; son of Reuben and Hannah 
(Snyder) Knouse. The great-grandparents 
Knouse were natives of Grossherzogthum, 
Baden, and emigrated to America in 1749. 
They settled in Lehigh county and were 
farmers, and here the grandparents and 
parents of Franklin Knouse were born. The 
Snyder family were also natives of Germany. 
The mother was born in an old log cabin on 
Lehigh river. The parents had ten children, 
of whom seven are living: Franklin ; Eliza, 
widow of the late George Burkhard, resid- 
ing in Allentown, Pa.; Allen, residing in 
Quakertown, Bucks county, Pa.; Emma, 
wife of Abraham Worman, residing in Allen- 
town, Pa.; Sarah, residing with her brother 
Franklin; Catherine, wife of Edward Mc- 
Hose, residing in Philadelphia; and Harry, 



586 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



residing in Harrisburg. Franklin was 
reared on the homestead farm and received 
his education in district schools of his neigh- 
borhood. From early youth he was trained 
in the store, and has devoted the greater 
part of his business life to mercantile 
pursuits. From 1855 to 1871 he conducted 
a general store at Allentown, Pa., removing 
to Harrisburg in 1872, where he was not in 
any active business for five years, but has 
been continuously engaged as a merchant 
since 1877, and is now one of the oldest and 
most highly honored business men of the 
city. Mr. Knouse was for many years a 
stockholder in the Allentown National Bank, 
and also a stockholder in the Muhlenburg 
College, and of the Lehigh Agricultural 
Society of Allentown, and was associated 
by membershijD with the Odd Fellows fra- 
ternity of that city. In his political views 
he was a staunch Rej^ublican, and a con- 
sistent member of the German Reformed 
church. Mr. Knouse died in 1896. 



Fkaley, Henry, dealer in china and 
glassware, was born in Adams county, Pa., 
December 27, 1838 ; son of John and Mary 
(Koser) Fraley. His father was a farmer, 
and moved to Cumberland county, where he 
died when Henry was four years of age. His 
mother died when he was nine, and his sis- 
ter died when he was thirteen years of age. 
He was reared in Adams and Cumberland 
counties, among strangers and having a 
guardian. When sixteen years of age he 
came to Harrisburg and was clerk in a 
grocery store until he became of age, when 
he went to Ohio. In 1861 he enlisted in 
company A, Sixty-sixth regiment, Ohio . 
volunteers, and was mustered out at Colum- 
bus, Ohio, July 16, 1865, having during his 
service been promoted from private to lieu- 
tenant of company A, then to captain of 
company H. He was in General Geary's 
division in the Eastern army and in General 
Hooker's division in the Western army. In 
the former the important engagements in 
which he participated were : Fort Republic, 
Cedar Mountain, Chancellorsville, Gettys- 
burg, and was among the troops sent to New 
York City to quell the riots. In the West- 
ern army the prominent battles were: Look- 
out Mountain, Ringgold, Rasacca, New Hope 
Church, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree 
Creek, and all the principal engagements of 
that body of troops. At the close of the war 
Mr. Fraley engaged in mercantile business 
at Warsaw, Ind., for five years, and in April, 



1870, came to Harrisburg, when he em- 
barked in the wholesale and retail oil busi- 
ness, which in 1887 was merged into the 
Capital City Oil Company, of which he was 
made general manager. He continued in 
this position until October, 1894, when he 
took up his present business, which had been 
established by him in 1884. In his political 
views Mr. Fraley is a Republican, and has 
served as a member of the common council 
for three terms. He is a member of Lodge 
No. 70, I. 0. 0. F., and of Post No. 116, G. 
A. R. He was married, in 1865, to Miss 
Susan Strasbough, of York county, Pa., who 
died in 1885. They<had one child, William 
H., born in 1872, assistant to his father. Mr. 
Fraley married, second ly, Isabella Kosure, 
of Baltimore, Md., by whom there is no 
issue. Mr. and Mrs. Fraley are members of 
the Bethlehem Lutheran church. 



Soper, Leander V. B., engraver, watch- 
maker and dealer in watchmaker's supplies, 
was born June 13, 1836; son of Joel and 
Louisa (Walker) Soper, the father a native of 
Connecticut, the mother of Ireland. When 
eleven years old he removed with his mother 
to Virginia and thence to Maryland, and re- 
ceived his education in Washington county, 
Md., and then engaged in farming. In 
1857 he located in Dauphin, Pa., and resided 
there about two years, then lived at Fair- 
field, Adams count}', one year, and removed 
from there to Centerville, Cumberland 
county, where, in October, 1862, he enlisted 
in the Seventeenth regiment, Pennsylvania 
cavalry, and served until mustered out at 
Alexandria, Va., July 4, 1864. After his 
discharge he returned to Cumberland county 
and was engaged in the watchmaker and 
jewelry business at Newville for three and a 
half years, and removed in 1867 to Gettys- 
burg, and followed his occupation two years, 
after which he was at Riverview, Clearfield 
county, four and a half years. He then re- 
moved to Sunbury, Pa., and after being 
there nine years, was for a few months at 
Ephrata, Lancaster county, and then re- 
moved to Harrisburg, where he remained 
four years. He was then again at Sunbury 
for two years, after which he returned to 
Harrisburg, where he has been a continuous 
resident since 1890. Mr. Soper was married 
in Cumberland, November 29, 1860, and has 
three children : Sallie L., wife of M. J. Bick- 
ley, of Millersburg, Harry A., Margaret M., 
wife of Daniel E. Bloom, of Sunbury, Pa. 
He is a member of Bethesda Lodge, No. 821, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



587 



I. 0. 0. F.; and of Capt. Branner's Post, G. 
A. R. In his political views Mr. Soper is a 
Republican. He attends the Methodist 
Episcopal church. 

Fitzgerald, Samuel W., watchmaker and 
jeweler, Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Lan- 
caster city, Pa., June 11, 1852 ; son of the 
late James R. and Catherine (Dickey) Fitz- 
gerald. The father was of Irish ancestry 
and born in Lancaster city, Pa., where he 
resided until 1850 when he removed to Har- 
risburg, making his home in this city until 
his death, December 3, 1894. He was a 
cigar manufacturer and took an active part 
in public affairs, having represented the 
Third and Seventh wards in common coun- 
cil for several years. The mother was a 
native of Harrisburg and is still living. 
Their children are: David, Samuel W., 
James, Harry, Charles, William, Cathe- 
rine, wife of Jeremiah Blessing, John, died 
aged twenty-two years, and Joseph, who died 
in childhood. Samuel W. removed with his 
parents to Harrisburg when he was two 
years old, was educated in the public schools, 
learned the trade of jeweler, and has been in 
business for twenty years. He represented 
the Seventh ward three years in common 
council and one term in select council, hav- 
ing been chairman of every committee in 
council. He has also been vice-chairman of 
the Democratic committee several terms. He 
was married at Harrisburg, January 26, 1874, 
to Laura Morton, daughter of John B. and 
Susan Neff Morton. Their children are : 
Ethel, died in childhood, John, Morton, 
Bertha, Viola, George, Ross Elmer, Fran- 
cis Everhart, and Irene Laura. Mr. Fitz- 
gerald is a thirty-second degree Mason and 
a member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, 
Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, and Pilgrim 
Commandery, No. 11, Harrisburg Consistory, 
and also of Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. of P. 
In his politics he is a Democrat. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church. 



Hutman, George A., jeweler and watch- 
maker, Harrisburg, was born in Harrisburg, 
September 30, 1856. He is a son of the late 
William E. and Martha (Black) Hutman. 

Mr. Hutman's great-grandfather was 
among the earliest settlers in Harrisburg. 
He came here from Hesse Cassel, German}', 
as far back as 1780. His homestead was, on 
Front street, between Chestnut and Mul- 
berry streets, the property now owned by the 
Ewing family. Soon after he came he tried 



to purchase some land of John Harris, but 
the latter refused because Mr. Hutman had 
only Continental money ; succeeding after- 
wards in having his money exchanged he 
bought the Front street property, as already 
said. Mr. Hutman's business was that of a 
tailor. On one occasion Mr. Harris offered 
him the square of ground now covered by 
the Bolton House in exchange for clothing, 
but Mr. Hutman declined the exchange, 
considering the ground too swampy. He 
married Miss Catharine Horter, whose father 
kept the old Horter hotel on South Second 
street. The Horters were a well-known 
family of Germantown, near Philadelphia. 
Their children were : Elizabeth, born in 
Harrisburg, January 1, 1792, married to 
William Bell, of Second and Chestnut 
streets, Harrisburg, three of their children, 
George, Elizabeth and Catharine, being still 
living; Polly, born January 17, 1796; 
Catharine, born February 14, 1798, married 
to Mr. John Cameron, of Harrisburg, a 
brother of the late Hon. Simon Cameron ; 
George Frederick and John Matthias, born 
February 23, 1802. Polly and John Mat- 
thias died in infancy. 

George Frederick Hutman, grandfather of 
George A., was born January 24, 1800. On 
November 2, 1824, he married Harriet 
Adams, of West Camp, N. Y. Their chil- 
dren were: Matthias A., born January 9, 
1826 ; William E.; Julia D., born September 
10, 1828, and Angeline F., born January 30, 
1831, died February 16, 1832. Mrs. Harriet 
(Adams) Hutman dying June 9, 1832, Mr. 
Hutman was married again September 29, 
1833, to Christiana Shaffner, widow of W. 
Bryan. She was a sister of Mrs. Frederick 
Trace, of South Second street, Harrisburg, 
and was born in Lancaster, August 31, 1812. 
Their children were: Harriet Yager, born 
September 1, 1834; John Shaffner. born 
January 6,1836; Mary Ellen, born May 24, 
1840 ; Sarah Bricker, born January 2, 1842 ; 
Henry Clay, born December 7, 1844 ; Katie, 
born December 15, 1846 ; and Emma Vir- 
ginia, born November 6, 1848. Mr. George 
Frederick Hutman died August 29, 1856, 
and his wife, Mrs. Christina Hutman, died 
in Brooklyn, N. Y., May 4, 1895. 

William E. Hutman, father of George A., 
was born in Harrisburg, March 9,1827. His 
occupation was bricklaying. On the fourth 
of September, 1851, he was married by Rev. 
William DeWitt, pastor of Market Square 
Presbyterian church, to Martha Jane, daugh- 
ter of Capt. Matthew B. Black, and sister of 



588 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Matthew B. Black, Jr., of Harrisburg. Mrs. 
Martha Jane Hutman was born in York 
county, Ma}^ 7, 1831; her mother was the 
daughter of William Clark, of Cumberland 
county. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Will- 
iam E. Hutman are: Clara Jane, born in 
Harrisburg, July 30, 1852, married, April 25, 
1872, to Abraham Anderson, of Harrisburg, 
has two children, William and Ida M.; James 
born February 28, 1854, married Emma 
Forbes, has three children, Rose, Nellie and 
Carrie; George A.; Hannah E., born June 27, 
1859, married December 25, 1883, to George 
W. Peters, of Sunbury, Pa., has five children, 
Harry, Frank, Bessie, Roy and Mamie; Will- 
iam B., born July 3, 1861, died February 9, 
1862; Henry H, born February 11, 1865, 
married, June 18, ]886, to May Etter, of 
Harrisburg, has four children, Florence, Car- 
rie, Martha and Bertha; Julia W., born May 
29, 1867, married to Mr. Boyd Schartzer, of 
Harrisburg, has two children, Grace and 
Earl; Emma, born April 4, 1870, married, 
March 15, 1892, to William G. Underwood, 
of Ohio, has two children, Helen and John; 
and Martha J., born September 16, 1872, 
died January 31, 1873. Mr. William E. 
Hutman died October 17, 1879. 

George A. Hutman has spent his entire 
life in his native city. He was educated in 
its common schools, finishing his course in 
the high school. He then became clerk in ■ 
a grocery store and continued for about three 
years. He next worked for about three years 
at the jewelry business with William Cruik- 
shank, after which he finished learning his 
trade by three years spent in the watch man- 
ufactory at Lancaster, Pa. His father dying 
in 1879 he was obliged to return to Harris- 
burg. Shortly after he engaged in the 
watchmaking and jewelry business for him- 
self. He began in a small way, occupying a 
single room in his mother's dwelling. He 
has steadily enlarged his business, until to- 
day he has one of the largest, handsomest 
and most attractive stores in the city. His 
success demonstrates his skill and business 
ability. 

George A. Hutman was married in Har- 
risburg, March 23, 1S82, by Rev. C. Price, of 
Fourth Street Church of God, to Miss Mary 
Ellen Lloyd, born in Harrisburg December 
23, 1859. Her parents were Prof, and Mrs. 
Isaac Lloyd, the former of Lower Allen town- 
ship, Cumberland county, Pa., the latter a 
daughter of Hon. Benjamin Musser, of Cum- 
berland county. Mr. and Mr. George A. 
Hutman have had four children; one was 



an infant whose brief life was not more than 
about nineteen hours. The surviving chil- 
dren are : Fannie Irene, born in Harrisburg, 
September 8, 1884; Anna Martha, born 
April 17, 1890; and Esther Corene, born 
November 27, 1894. Mr. Hutman is an ac- 
tive member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 
464; Perseverance Chapter, No. 21; and 
Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11, F. & A. M. 
He is a past noble grand of I. 0. 0. F.; and 
a past officer of Dauphin Council, No. 1101, 
Royal Arcanum. He has efficiently served 
in the Plope Volunteer Fire Company for 
seventeen years; during two of these years 
he was an officer of the company. He is not 
an active politician, but is Democratic in 
his principles. He and his wife are consist- 
ent members of Westminister Presbyterian 
church. 



Rinkenbach, Edward L., jeweler, was 
born at Mauch Chunk, Carbon county, Pa., 
June 11, 1858. He is a son of Joseph and 
Victoria (Reise) Rinkenbach. His parents 
were natives of Germany, and came to Amer- 
ica about 1850. They made their home per- 
manently in Carbon county, and here the 
father died May 14, 1893. The mother still 
survives and lives at Mauch Chunk. They 
had six children: William, of Johnstown, 
Pa.; Edward L.; Albert, of Mauch Chunk, 
Pa.; Annie, died in 1893; Leopold, and 
Barbara, residing at home. 

Edward L. spent his youth in his native 
town. After taking the usual course of in- 
struction in the public schools he was ap- 
prenticed to a jeweler and watchmaker, and 
has worked at this trade until the present 
time. He came to Harrisburg. March 2, 
1882, and worked as a journeyman for five 
years. In 1887 he engaged in business for 
himself. He is a progressive business man, 
and is widely and favorably known by the 
citizens. 

Mr. Rinkenbach was married in Harris- 
burg, July 3, 1887, to Miss Minnie E., daugh- 
ter of Josephus and Ellen (Strominger) Shis- 
ler. They have four children: Joseph S., 
Edward L., Helen, and Robert. Mr. Rink- 
enbach is a member of the Benevolent and 
Protective Order of Elks, Heptasophs, and 
the Catholic Legion. He is a Democrat. He 
attends St. Lawrence's Roman Catholic 
church. 



Soper, Harry A., jeweler, was born in 
Newville, Cumberland county, Pa., January 
3, 1865 ; son of Leander V. B. and Anna A. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



589 



(Beistline) Soper, the father a native of Long 
Island, N. Y., and the mother of Cumber- 
land county, both living and residents of 
Harrisburg. Harry A., when nine years 
old, removed with his parents to Sunbury, 
Pa., where he received his education in the 
public schools and learned the trade of 
watchmaker and manufacturing jeweler. 
In 1883 he removed to Harrisburg and con- 
tinued to work at his trade until 1890 when 
he engaged in the business of wholesale 
dealer in watch materials with his father. 
In 1892 he retired from this business and 
engaged in the retail trade with M. J. Bick- 
ley under the firm name of Bickley & Soper 
and at the end of one year he purchased his 
partner's interest, and since that time has 
conducted the business on his own account. 
Mr. Soper was married in Sunbury, Pa., 
January 22, 1891, to Miss Margaret E. Haas, 
daughter of William and Nettie (Fahnes- 
tock) Haas. They have one child, Harriet. 
Mr. Soper is a member of the Sons of Vet- 
erans and in his political views is a Republi- 
can. He and his wife attend St. Paul's 
Episcopal church. 

Faunce, Lawrence A., engraver, jeweler 
and watchmaker, was born in Harrisburg, 
Pa., August 1, 1871 ; son of Jacob A. and 
Sarah A. (Stahl) Faunce. Jacob Faunce, 
grandfather of Lawrence A., was born at 
Baden, Germany, and came to America about 
1833, and shortly after his arrival was mar- 
ried to a young woman with whom he be- 
came acquainted during the voyage. He 
settled at Harrisburg and engaged in butch- 
ering and followed this occupation until his 
death, which occurred in the thirty-fourth 
year of his age. His wife died September 19, 
1872. Their surviving children are: Caro- 
line S., wife of Michael McLean ; Jacob A.; 
and Mary Josephine, wife of George H. Sour- 
bier. Jacob A., the father, was born in 
Harrisburg, January 8, 1843 ; son of Jacob 
and Caroline (Beiser) Faunce. He attended 
the public schools of the city and at a very 
early age went to Philadelphia and learned 
the trade of iron moulder. He worked five 
years at his trade in that city and then came 
to Harrisburg, but on account of failing 
health was obliged to relinquish his trade 
and was employed in the service of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company for ten 
years. He was obliged to abandon this busi- 
ness, also, on account of ill health and for 
five years was a clerk in a coal office. His 



health has been such for the past fifteen 
years that it has been impossible for him to 
engage in any active business. He was 
married in Harrisburg, January 14, 1866, to 
Sarah A. Stahl, daughter of Adam and 
Margaret Stahl, to whom have been born 
two children : Mary, who died in infancy, 
and Lawrence A. They also adopted two 
children, both of whom died in childhood. 
Mr. Faunce represented the Sixth ward in 
council two terms, and served as county and 
school tax collector for five years. He holds 
membership in Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. 
P.; State Capital Lodge, No. 70, and Olive 
Encampment, No. 56, I. 0. 0. F. In his 
political views he is Republican. Both he 
and his wife are members of the Presby- 
teiian church. 

Lawrence A. attended the public schools 
and completed his education by private 
study in which he earnestly engaged while 
he was learning his trade. After complet- 
ing his apprenticeship he worked at his 
chosen occupation in Harrisburg until 
October 11, 1894, on which date he em- 
barked in business on his own account. He 
was married in Harrisburg, April 26, 1894, 
to Miss Lottie M. Christ, daughter of George 
and Miranda Christ, of Harrisburg. Mr. 
Faunce is a member of Cincinnatus Com- 
mandery, No. 96, K. of M. ; Warrior Eagle 
Tribe, I. 0. R. M. ; and America Council, 
No. 3, 0. U. A. M. In his political views he 
is a Republican, and attends the Reformed 
church. 



Lemer, LeRue, photographer, was born 
in Lisburn, Cumberland count}', Pa., October 
26, 1837; son of LeRue and Caroline 
(Church) Lemer. The father read medicine 
with old Dr. Reily, of Harrisburg, and was 
graduated from the medical department of 
Yale College in 1838. He practiced in Lis- 
burn, Cumberland county, for over forty-five 
j r ears and died there. He was twice mar- 
ried, and of the two children by the first 
marriage, LeRue is the only survivor. The 
mother was a native of New Cumberland, 
Cumberland county, and a daughter of 
Robert R. Church. LeRue received his 
education in the public schools and in 
the White Hall Academy. He came to 
Harrisburg and served an apprenticeship 
of four years at the printer's trade in the 
office of the Patriot. After working a short 
time at his trade as a journeyman, he at- 
tended the White Hall Academy one sea- 



590 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



son and then returned to Harrisburg and en- 
gaged in the photograph business, in which 
he has continued to the present time, being 
now the oldest established photographer in 
the city. In 1862 he enlisted in compaii}' A, 
One Hundred and Twenty-ninth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, for nine months' 
service, and was assigned to detached duty 
in hunting up deserters. He was the fourth 
sergeant of his company. Mr. Lemer is 
prominent in the Masonic fraternity, being 
a member of the blue lodge, chapter and 
commandery. In his political views he is a 
Democrat. He was married April 19, 1863, 
to Miss Rebecca Marshall, of Philadelphia, 
daughter of Milton Marshall, of Chester 
county, Pa. They have four children: Mil- 
ton M., attorney at Harrisburg ; Mary A., 
teacher; May, graduate of Wells College, 
teacher of high school ; and LeRue, Jr. The 
family are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal church, with the exception of Miss 
May, who attends the Episcopal church. 



Schriver, Charles C, photographer, was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa., February 19, 1853. 
He is a son of Cornelius and Rebecca (Alle- 
man) Schriver. Cornelius Schriver, born in 
York county, Pa., in 1826, came to Dauphin 
county in 1840. He worked at tailoring in 
Harrisburg until 1862, when he enlisted in 
company B, One Hundred and Twenty 
Seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served nine months. In 1884 he re- 
enlisted in the Two Hundred and First regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, as commis- 
sary sergeant and served until the close of 
the war. He participated in the battles of 
Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and other 
engagements. After the close of the war he 
engaged in the coal business, in which he 
continued until 1871, when he accepted a 
position at the Pennsylvania railroad station 
which he held until 1882. At the opening 
of the People's bridge he was put in charge of 
the Harrisburg end of the bridge, and re- 
mained in that position until his death, De- 
cember 30, 1894. He was a member of the 
Masonic fraternity and of the I. 0. 0. F. He 
was a charter member and one of the or- 
ganizers of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, 
F. & A. M., in 1870. For many years he 
belonged to Zion Lutheran church. His 
wife survives him. They had two chil- 
dren, Martin, a fireman on the Pennsylvania 
railroad, who was killed by an accident in 
1880, and Charles C. 



Charles C. Schriver was educated in the 
common schools of Harrisburg, graduating in 
1869. He learned photography of D. C. Bur- 
nite,and remained with him until 1874, when 
he went to Tyrone, Pa., and followed the 
business two years. In 1876 he became train 
agent on the Pennsylvania railroad. In 
1878 he engaged in the photograph business 
for himself in Tyrone. In 1882 he removed 
his gallery to Harrisburg, where it has ever 
since been. In 1889 he admitted Calvin M. 
Kibler as a partner and the firm has since 
been Schrivei & Kibler. Their gallery is 
at 1213 North Third street, and their whole- 
sale department at 718 Pennsylvania avenue. 
They do an extensive enlarging and copying 
business and manufacture crayon portraits 
and picture frames. In 1889 Mr. Schriver 
purchased land, and laid out an addition to 
Highspire. He is a prominent Republican ; 
served one year as auditor of T3 r rone bor- 
ough ; he is a member of the common 
council of Harrisburg. He was elected to 
the latter position in 1893 and 1895 ; was 
chairman of the finance committee in 1893 
and 1895, and president of the council in 
1894. He is a prominent member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M.; of Perse- 
verance Chapter and Pilgrim Commandery. 
He was worshipful master in 1S78-79. He 
also belongs to the Jr. O. U. A. M., and 
Royal Arcanum. 

Mr. Schriver was married in 1878 to Miss 
Emma, daughter of Michael Barringer, of 
Harrisburg. Their children are : Mar}^ R., 
Emma R. and Charles Jacob. He is one of 
the organizers, and a charter member of 
Bethlehem Lutheran church ; has served as 
its deacon, and is now assistant superintend- 
ent of the third department of the Sabbath- 
school. 



Kibler, Calvin M., of the firm of 
Schriver & Kibler, photographers, was born 
in the Shenandoah Valley, near Staunton, 
Va., May 28, 1856 ; son of Isaac and Mar- 
garet (Jackson) Kibler. The father came to 
Harrisburg, and was connected with the 
Harrisburg Car Works, but subsequently re- 
turned to Virginia where he died. He 
reared five children. Calvin M. was reared 
in Shippensburg, Pa., and received his edu- 
cation in the schools of that place and of 
Harrisburg. He learned the business of 
photography at Harrisburg, at which he 
worked for Mr. Schriver, of Tyrone ; with 
whom he remained until 1890, when 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



591 



he was admitted to the business and the 
firm of Schriver & Kibler was formed, Mr. 
Kibler having charge of the crayon and 
water color department of the enterprise. 
In politics Mr. Kibler is a Republican. He 
is a member of the Westminster Presbyterian 
church and was formerly connected with 
the Y. M. C. A. 



is at present engaged with Mr. Roshon, his 
son-in-law. He has only one daughter, Mrs. 
Roshon. 



Roshon, John William, photographer, 
was born in Huntingdon county, Pa., April 
21, 1863 ; son of C. S. and Phoebe (Charles) 
Roshon. John Roshon, the paternal grand- 
father, was a native of Montgomery county, 
and a carpenter by trade. He is still living 
and resides at Baltimore, Ohio. His wife 
Catherine is deceased. They reared a family 
of five children. The maternal grandparents 
were both natives of Snyder county. The 
grandfather was a lime burner, and is still 
living at the advanced age of eighty-nine 
years, at Freeburg, Pa. His wife died at the 
age of eight\'-four years. They had thirteen 
children. C. S. Roshon, the father, married 
Miss Phoebe Charles, of Snyder county, who 
died in 1884, aged forty-nine years, bj T 
whom he had three children, of whom the 
only survivor is John W. The father was 
employed one year at the Centennial Expo- 
sition at Philadelphia in 1876. From Phil- 
adelphia he removed to Chicago, 111., in 

1877, and came from thereto Harrisburg in 

1878, where he remained for eight years. 
He then removed to Lebanon, Pa., where he 
has since been in business. In his political 
views he is a Republican. He is a member 
of the United Brethren church. 

John William received a part of his edu- 
cation in Harrisburg, and later removed 
with his parents to Huntingdon, Pa., where 
he attended the public schools until he was 
sixteen years of age. He was engaged with 
his father two years, after which he began 
business for himself at Newville, Cumber- 
land county, Pa., in which he continued for 
three years. In 1887 he removed to Har- 
risburg, where he has been continuously in 
business since that time and is one of the 
leading artists in his line. He was married 
August 12, 1886, to Miss Mary E. Pheney, 
by whom he has one daughter, Dorinda F. 
In his political views Mr. Roshon is a Pro- 
hibitionist. He is a member of the Grace 
Methodist Episcopal church. The parents 
of Mrs. Roshon were both natives of Leb- 
anon. The father was a tailor by trade, but 



Graham, Robert, florist, was born in 
Harwick, Scotland, June 23, 1845 * son of 
Archibald and Margaret (Henderson) Gra- 
ham. When he was five years old he came 
with his parents to America. The family 
located in Philadelphia, where Robert was 
reared and educated and where he learned 
the business of florist. He came to Harris- 
burg and engaged in the cultivation and 
sale of flowers and plants, and is now one of 
the oldest florists in the city. Mr. Graham 
was married in 1871 to Miss A. Kinnear, 
daughter of Alexander Kinnear, of Ireland. 
They have one child, Helen, at home. In 
his political views Mr. Graham is in accord 
with the Democratic party. Mrs. Graham 
is a member of the Presbyterian church. 



Brenneman, Jacob D., florist, was born in 
South Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., October 21, 1857. He is a son of Adam 
and Harriet (Stoudt)Brenneman, was reared 
in Hanover township and received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of that town- 
ship and of Harrisburg. Having served an 
apprenticeship as a florist in Pittsburgh, Phil- 
adelphia and other places, he established 
his present business in Harrisburg in 1877 
and has since continued it. He is considered 
the leading florist of the city and is also en- 
gaged in the fancy nursery business. He is 
active in the Republican party. Mr. Bren- 
neman was married in 1881 to Miss Cordelia 
Morburg, of Virginia, and they have five chil- 
dren : Mary, Helen, Cordelia, Elma, and 
Esther. His wife is a member of the Lu- 
theran church. 



McFarland, George G., dealer in bi- 
cycles, flowers, birds and fish, was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., September 12, 1867; son 
of George F. and Addie D. (Greissemer) Mc- 
Farland, the former a native of Dauphin 
county, and of Scotch descent, the latter a 
native of Berks county, of German ancestry. 
The father was born in Susquehanna town- 
ship. He was a teacher, and owned and 
conducted Freeburg Academy. He served 
with distinction in the late war, having been 
a captain in the One Hundred and Fifty- 
first regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
later promoted to a colonelcy of the regi- 
ment. He lost one leg and was seriously 



592 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



wounded in the other, at the battle of Gettj^s- 
burg, July 1, 1863. After the war he en- 
gaged in business as a florist. He organized 
the Soldiers' Orphans' Home and became 
the first superintendent of that institution. 
He died from the effects of the wounds re- 
ceived at Gettysburg, in 1891, at Tallapoosa, 
Ga. The mother is still living and makes 
her home at the last named place. Their 
children are: John H, head of the Mt. 
Pleasant Printing Company ; Emma, widow 
of Howard Wharton ; George G. George G. 
was educated in the public schools of Harris- 
burg and was subsequently engaged in the 
florist business until 1894, when he became 
also a dealer in bicycles. He was married in 
Harrisburg, June 10, 1891, to Sarah R. 
Steckley, daughter of Jacob and Mary Steck- 
ley. They have one child, Donald Steckley. 
In politics Mr. McFarland is a Republican. 
He attends the Lutheran church. 



The Bowman Family emigrated from 
Switzerland/and were among the earlier set- 
tlers in Lancaster county, Pa. John Bow- 
man was born in Lancaster county; moved 
to York county early in 1S15 ; located in 
Carroll township and engaged in farming 
and distilling. He was a Mennonite. He 
died in York county about 1860. He mar- 
ried Martha Herr. They had nine children : 
Christian, John, Abraham, Henry, Frances, 
Mrs. John Baker, of Mechanicsburg. Pa.; 
Martha, Mrs. Aaron Firestone, who died in 
Carroll township, York county ; Mary, de- 
ceased ; Ann, Mrs. Joseph Plough, of Mon- 
roe township, Cumberland county, Pa., and 
Esther, maiden lady, of Mechanicsburg. 

Christian Bowman was born in Lancaster 
county, July 26, 1811. He received a limited 
education in private schools. He was a 
farmer and cooper and located at Monaghan 
township, York county. He retired from 
active business about 1870 and removed to 
Carroll township, York county, where he 
died January 15, 1888. He was first mar- 
ried to Susan Coover, who was born in York 
county, October 25, 1812, and died about 
1852. They had twelve children, six of 
whom grew to maturity : John C, school 
teacher, afterwards merchant in Mechanics- 
burg, Pa., served several years as justice of 
the peace, engaged in the insurance busi- 
ness, was secretary and treasurer of the Me- 
chanicsburg Gas ?nd Water Company and 
died June 20, 1891 ; Jacob, residing on the 
homestead farm ; Calvin L., for many years 



dry goods merchant in Harrisburg and 
president of the State Bank of Harrisburg, 
died in Philadelphia, Pa., May 10, 1893; 
Samuel, of Harrisburg ; Martha, Mrs. John 
Hertzler, of Monroe township, Cumberland, 
county ; Mary Jane, Mrs. John E. Hertzler, 
of the same township. The second wife of 
Mr. Christian Bowman was Margaret Asper, 
of York county, who, with her daughter, 
Mai-y Jane, survives him. He was a mem- 
ber of " Filey's " Reformed church, in which 
he was an elder. He was a Republican and 
served as school director, supervisor and in 
other offices. 

Samuel Bowman, son of Christian Bow- 
man, was born in Monaghan township, York 
count}', in October, 1842. He was educated 
in the schools of his native township. Farm- 
ing was the occupation in which he was 
first engaged. In August, 1864, he enlisted 
in company I, Two Hundredth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and served until 
the close of the war. He was wounded at 
Hatch's Run and also took part in the battles 
of Petersburg and Fort Steadman. After 
the war he was for four years engaged in 
farming and then removed to Lisburn, Cum- 
berland county, where for two years he was 
clerk for A. Bowman & Co. In 1872 he 
came to Harrisburg and was clerk for C. L. 
Bowman &Co. until he became a partner in 
the present firm of Bowman & Co. He is a 
stockholder in the People's Bridge Company 
and one of the original stockholders of the 
Chestnut Street Market Company. He is a 
Republican and belongs to Post No. 58, G. 
A. R. He is a member and a trustee of 
Salem Reformed church. He is not married. 

John Bowman, brother of Christian Bow- 
man and son of the first John Bowman, was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., in February, 
1813. He was educated in private schools. 
He located in Upper Allen township, Cum- 
berland county, Pa., engaged in farming, 
distilling and lime burning, and was promi- 
nent in the affairs of his township. He was 
a Whig. He served as school director and 
in other township offices. He died in Sep- 
tember, 1856. His wife, who was Maria C. 
Kraft, of York county, Pa., survives him 
and resides in Harrisburg. Their children 
were three in number : Martha, Mrs. W. D. 
Rauch, of Lebanon, Pa.; John K., of Har- 
risburg ; Joseph E., of Lancaster, Pa., re- 
tired. Mr. Bowman was a Mennonite and 
his wife a member of the German Reformed 
church. 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



595 



John K. Bowman, son of John Bowman, 
last named, and cousin of Samuel Bowman, 
was born in Upper Allen township, Cumber- 
land county, Pa., March 13, 1848. He re- 
ceived his education in the common schools 
and for one year studied at the Cumberland 
Valley Institute, Mechanicsburg, Pa. In 
1866 he entered the First National Bank, 
Mechanicsburg, as clerk and teller. In De- 
cember, 1867, he came to Harrisburg and 
engaged as bookkeeper with C. L. Bowman, 
and remained with him for several years. 
He then formed a partnership with N. R. 
Swartz in the dry goods business, which 
lasted one year, then Mr. Swartz withdrew 
from the firm and Mr. Bowman conducted 
the business for some years on his own ac- 
count, after which he purchased an interest 
in the business of C. L. Bowman and was a 
member of that firm for seven years. At the 
expiration of that time he and Samuel Bow- 
man formed the present firm of Bowman & 
Co. Mr. J. K. Bowman is one of the orig- 
inal stockholders of the People's Bridge 
Company and of the Chestnut Street Market 
Company. He is a stockholder in the Har- 
burg Trust Company and the Harrisburg 
Preserving Company and is interested in 
many other industries. He was married, in 
1872, to Miss Emma R., daughter of John 
S. Hostetter, of Mechanicsburg. They have 
four children : John W., Bessie M., Harry 
Hostetter, and Emma May. Mr. Bowman and 
his family are members of Salem Reformed 
church, in the work of which he takes an 
active interest. He has served as deacon 
and is the present treasurer and a teacher in 
the Sunday-school. He is a member of the 
Y. M. C. A. and has served on the board of 
managers. 



Einstein, M. G., deceased, was born in 
Stuttgart, Germany, in June, 1813. He came 
to America in 1837, and located in Philadel- 
phia. He was in the wholesale dry goodsbusi- 
ness in that city and in Baltimore, Md. He 
came to Harrisburg in 1856 and established a 
wholesale and retail dry goods business. He 
was for many years recognized as the leading 
merchant in the city. He died in February, 
1887. He was married in 1842 to Catherine 
Van Zant, a native of Baltimore and a resi- 
dent of Mechanicsburg, Pa. They had four 
children, three of whom are living : Celia M., 
Joseph V., and Edgar V. Emma R., Mrs. 
Thomas J. Finney, of Harrisburg, died in 
1894. 
40 



Einstein, Joseph V., was born in York 
county, Pa., September 21, 1849. He was 
educated in the public schools of Harrisburg 
and then entered the store of his father. In 
1886 he became a partner in the firm of 
Einstein Bros. He was married, in 1878, to 
Miss Amanda, daughter of Col. E. W. Davis, 
of Philadelphia. They have one child, Mor- 
ris G. Mr. Einstein is a charter member of 
the Board of Trade. His wife is a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Einstein, Edgar V., was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., in January, 1859. He was edu- 
cated in the city schools and entered his 
father's store. He became partner in the 
firm of Einstein Bros, in 1886. He is identi- 
fied with many of the important industries 
of the city. He was married, in 1888, to 
Miss Annie, daughter of Richard Fox, of 
Hummelstown, Pa. They have one child, 
Richard Fox Einstein. Mr. Einstein is a 
charter member of the Board of Trade. 



Zollinger, W. A., hat dealer, was born in 
Harrisburg. His father, Elias Zollinger, 
came to Harrisburg in 1822 and engaged in 
the manufacture of hats and also in the 
wholesale and retail sale of his products, 
having wagons on the road, and continued 
in the business until his death in 1857. He 
was a Republican in politics and in 1856 was 
elected to the common council, which posi- 
tion he was holding when he died. His 
religious views were in accord with the Re- 
formed church, and his membership was in 
the church on Chestnut street, in which he also 
held the office of elder. Mr. Zollinger mar- 
ried Miss Elizabeth Yonce, of Harrisburg, 
who died in 1877, and by whom he had eight 
children. Warren A. was next to the young- 
est of his father's family and received his 
education in the public schools. At the 
death of his father, Elias R., an older son took 
the business and Warren A. assisted him in 
the management of it until 1882, when War- 
ren, having purchased the interests of his 
mother and brother, continued the establish- 
ment, which is the oldest in the line in the 
city, having been conducted seventy-four 
years under one name. He is prominently 
identified with the Masonic fraternity. In 
politics he is an Independent Republican, 
but has declined to accept any office. Mr. 
Zollinger was married, in 1865, to Miss I. A. 
Sayford, daughter of William Sayford, mer- 
chant tailor of Harrisburg. They have no 



596 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



children. Mr. and Mrs. Zollinger are mem- 
bers of the Zion Lutheran church, on Fourth 
street, and Mr. Zollinger is a member of the 
church council. 



Lentz, Joseph F., merchant, was born in 
Lower Paxton township, Dauphin cfjunty, 
Pa., July 1, 1833 ; son of the late John and 
Margaret. (Fading) Lentz. The parents 
spent their entire life in Dauphin county, 
and the greater portion of it in South Han- 
over township. The father was a farmer 
and a prominent citizen. They had eight 
children, five of whom are living : Sarah, 
widow of David Wagner ; Margaret, resides 
in South Hanover; John, resides in Derry 
township, Dauphin county ; Catherine, and 
Joseph. Joseph F., when five years old, re- 
moved with his parents to South Hanover 
township, where he was reared and educated 
in the public schools, and after teaching 
school for some time, attended Palmyra 
Academy. He was then engaged in teach- 
ing at Manadaville and other places in Dau- 
phin county, but soon relinquished this oc- 
cupation and acted as agent for various firms 
for four years, after which he embarked in 
the grocery business at Harrisburg, in which 
he has continued for over thirty years with 
enviable success. Mr. Lentz was married, in 
Lebanon, Pa., February 18, 1869, to Sabina 
Maulfair, daughter of Jacob and Sabina 
(Winter) Maulfair, born in Lebanon county, 
April 6, 1844. There have been born to 
them ten children, five of whom died in in- 
fancy. The names of their living children 
are : Minnie, wife of Fulmer J. Reif, mer- 
chant at Harrisburg; Sarah, wife of Benja- 
min F. Meckley, merchant of Harrisburg ; 
Joseph M., Esther M., and David Vincent 
M. Mr. Lentz was originally an Abolitionist, 
then a Republican, and for twelve years has 
been a strict Prohibitionist, and in 1895 was 
a candidate for county treasurer on the Pro- 
hibition ticket. 

The family are members of the Ridge 
Avenue Methodist Episcopal church. 

The parents of Mrs. Lentz were natives of 
North Annville, Lebanon county, and spent 
their whole life there. The father for many 
years operated a grist mill, and was a highly 
respected citizen. They had fourteen chil- 
dren, eight of whom are living: Eliza, Mrs. 
Walborn ; Levi ; Edward ; Sabina, Mrs. Lentz ; 
Sarah, wife of H. E. Rider; Malinda, wife of 
Daniel Gillibach ; John Adam, and Noah. 



Hubley, Alpheus T., was born in Ship- 
pensburg, Cumberland county, Pa., April 24, 
1844; son of William and Eliza (Shaw) 
Hubley. He was reared in his native place 
and received his education in the public 
schools. He began his business life as a 
clerk in a dry goods store, in which capacity 
he was employed in Shippensburg, Carlisle, 
Martinsburg, Va., and Harrisonburg, Va. 
He came to Harrisburg in 1867 and was em- 
ployed as a clerk for six years in several 
dry goods houses, after which he embarked 
in his present business. Mr. Hubley is iden- 
tified with a number of local business cor- 
porations, being a stockholder and director 
of the West Harrisburg Market House Com- 
pany, of the Electric Light Compan}', of the 
Bay Shoe Company, of the Harrisburg and 
Mechanicsburg Electric Railway Company 
and of the Farmer's Market Company, be- 
ing treasurer of the last named corporation. 
In politics Mr. Hubley is a Democrat. He 
was married, in 1876, to Miss Annie Strom- 
inger, daughter of Daniel Strominger of 
Harrisburg. Their children are: Florence 
E., Walter William, Alpheus T., Ross S., 
Bessie L. and Nellie. The family are mem- 
bers of the Grace Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Marks, Herman, merchant, was born in 
Prussia, March 20, 1846; son of Marcus and 
Babetha (Gordon) Marks. He was reared in 
his native country up to his sixteenth year, 
and attended the common schools. He came 
to America in 1864 and settled at Harrisburg, 
where he was employed as clerk for Joseph 
Strouse and later for Benjamin Strouse. In 
1869 he engaged in the clothing business for 
himself, in which he has since continued and 
is now one of the oldest merchants in the 
city. Mr. Marks, in 1896, became one of the 
organizers of the Harrisburg Improvement 
Company and its treasurer. He was one of 
the organizers of the Harrisburg Electric 
Light Company, and one of the charter stock- 
holders of the Harrisburg Steam Heat and 
Power Company. He also organized the 
Second Building and Loan Association and 
has been the treasurer of the Citizen's Build- 
ing and Loan Association since its inception, 
and is also one of the organizers and direc- 
tors of the Capital City Shoe Company. For- 
merly he was a member of the Board of 
Trade. He is a Republican in politics, but 
holds no office. He is connected with Per- 
severance Lodge and Chapter, F. & A. M. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



597 



Mr. Marks was married, in 1869, to Miss 
Sophia Dinglespeil, of Harrisburg. Their 
children are: Hattie, Jennie, and Edgar. Pie 
is a member of the Ohev Sholem congrega- 
tion, of Harrisburg. 



Bomgardner, Jacob M., of the firm of 
Bomgardner & Son, was born in Lebanon 
county, Pa., September 14, 1847; son of 
Thomas and Rebecca (Miller) Bomgardner, 
natives of that county. The father was a 
shoemaker by trade. In religious views he 
was in harmony with the United Brethrens, 
and was an active member of that denomi- 
nation. Jacob M. received his education in 
the township schools and learned the shoe- 
maker's trade, and subsequently taught 
school for five years in Lebanon count3 r . In 
1870 he engaged in mercantile business in 
East Hanover township, where he remained 
two years, removing then to Mt. Nebo. After 
three years in the store in this place, his 
failing health compelled him to sell out and 
engage in a more active occupation. He 
acted as an agent for sewing machines on 
the road until 1879, when he went to Mid- 
dletown and became clerk for B. S. Peters 
& Son. During the next ten years he was 
in the hardware business at Lebanon, Pa., 
in connection with which he also established 
an ice business. In 1889 he came to Har- 
risburg, where he engaged in the grocery 
business on Walnut street, and in 1895 en- 
tered upon his present business on North 
Fourth street, erecting his present store. He 
was formerly a stockholder in the Trust 
Company. His only fraternity connection 
is with the Ancient Order of United Work- 
men. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. 
Bomgardner was married, in 1870, to Miss 
Amanda Roop, daughter of Gideon Roop, of 
Lebanon county. They have two children : 
Irwin R., born in 1872, received his educa- 
tion in the public schools and graduated 
from the high school, and in 1S93 became a 
member of the firm of Bomgardner & Son; and 
Florence E. Mr. Bomgardner is a member of 
the Boas Street United Brethren church, in 
which organization he is a trustee, and takes 
an active interest in all branches of church 
work. 



Harrisburg, the father having come to this 
country and settled in this city in 1845 or 
1846. He was a stone mason and formed a 
partnership in this business with Roger 
Sheehey. He was an Independent Democrat 
in politics and was identified with the Odd 
Fellows and the German orders. His death 
occurred March 17, 1891, his wife still sur- 
viving and residing at Harrisburg. Their 
children are : William M.; Lewis, retired ; 
Emma, Mrs. Edward Springer, Harrisburg; 
John, purchasing agent, Foundry and Ma- 
chine Works; Frederick, machinist, Middle- 
town, Pa., and Henry, musician, at home. 
William M. received his education in the 
public schools, which he attended until he 
was fourteen years of age, and in the Harris- 
burg high school, and later took a course in 
Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College. 
He entered the dispatcher's office of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, where he 
remained from 1866 to 1878, after which he 
became the company's agent for the West- 
moreland Coal Company, serving six years, 
and then for the Mashosmon Coal Company 
until 1895. Having been in the employ- 
ment of the company for thirty years, he 
retired and opened his present business at 
No. 404 State street. During the war he 
served as messenger in the quartermaster's 
department. In his political views Mr. Gas- 
trock is a Democrat with independent pro- 
clivities, and has never served in any public 
office. He is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, F. &. A. M. Mr. Gastrock was married, 
in 1872, to Ida Irene, daughter of Gen. 
Joseph F. Knipe, of Harrisburg. They have 
nine children : Rosa E., Elizabeth A., Joseph 
F., Benjamin B., Martin W., Frank A., Albert 
E., Ida I. and Bertha Viola. Mr. Gastrock 
was reared in the Lutheran church; Mrs. 
Gastrock is a member of the Presbyterian 
church. 



Gastrock, William M., was born in Har- 
risburg, Pa., March 16, 1848 ; son of Barthol 
and Rosanna (Koenig) Gastrock. The father 
was a native of 'Prussia, the mother of Wur- 
temberg, Germany. They were married in 



Lyter, W. H., was born in Halifax, 
March 28, 1840 ; son of Christian and 
Catherine (Bowman) Lyter. He was reared 
in Halifax and educated in the public 
school. His first business venture was in 
the dry goods business in Harrisburg, on 
Market Square, which he began in 1879 and 
continued for some time. Ten years later 
he formed a partnership with W. E. Fahne- 
stock under the firm name of Lyter & Fahne- 
stock, doing business on Market Square, in 
which they were active until the spring of 
1894, when Mr. Lyter retired from the firm. 



598 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



He returned in October, 1895, and purchased 
the present business. Mr. Lyter is a mem- 
ber of the Board of Trade. In politics he is 
a Republican. He was married in 1877 to 
Miss Helen Elizabeth Eppley, daughter of 
David Eppley, of Harrisburg. They have 
three children: Grace E., Edward and 
Charles A. Mr, Lyter is a member of the 
Fourth Street Lutheran church. 



Lusk, Charles P., coal and wood mer- 
chant, was bona at Freeport, Stephenson 
county, 111., February 11, 1851. His parents, 
William J. and Sarah J. (Chrissman) Lusk, 
were both natives of Mifflin county, Pa., but 
settled in Stephenson county at a very early 
date. They removed from Freeport when 
Charles was a little over a year old, and 
lived at Earl, Lasell county, 111., for ten 
years, where he received part of his educa- 
tion in the public schools of the place. In 
1862 the family removed to Lewistown, Mif- 
flin county, Pa., and about four years after, 
removed thence to Port Royal, Juniata 
county, Pa., where they resided five years, 
and where Charles completed his education. 
In 1872 the family removed to Harrisburg, 
where the mother resided till her death, 
which occurred March 3, 1890. The father 
died at Livingston, Ala., April, 1879. They 
had four children : one died in infancy ; the 
living are : Mary E., wife of F. L. Showalter, 
residing at Indianapolis, Ind.; Charles P., 
and Annie M., widow of B. F. Gillette, re- 
siding at Osgood, Ind. 

In 1872 Charles P. was engaged as sales- 
man in the wholesale notion house of Wolf 
& Hench, and filled this position for a year 
or more. His next occupation was railway 
news agent. He was afterwards employed 
in the laboratorjr of the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company's works for three and a half years 
with headquarters at the Lochiel House. 
He next established a custom shirt factory. 
In December, 1894, he engaged in his pres- 
ent business. He was married at Harris- 
burg, June 27, 1893, to Margaret A. Middle- 
ton, daughter of W. A. and Mary E. Mid- 
dleton. He is a member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., Harrisburg Con- 
sistory and of the Royal Arcanum. In 
political views he is a Democrat. 



Sample, John B., merchant, Harrisburg, 
was born in Lancaster county, Pa., Septem- 
ber 16, 1853. He is a son of Alexander and 
Frances (Mason) Sample, also of Lancaster 



county. Peter Sample, grandfather of John 
B. Sample, was a native of Maryland, and a 
farmer. He removed to Lancaster county, 
Pa., and married Miss Elizabeth Klinch, of 
that county, by whom he had ten children, 
the only one surviving is Alexander Sample. 

Alexander Sample was born in Lancaster 
county, February 28, 1827 ; was educated in 
his native county and spent his boyhood on 
the farm. He was married to Miss Frances 
Mason, daughter of James and Hattie 
Mason, November 24,1848. She was born 
January 24, 1828_, and died February 3, 
1886. They had nine children, two of whom 
are living: Peter H. and John B. The de- 
ceased children are: Harriet E., Esther E., 
Sarah M., James A., Nathaniel W., Charles 
S. and Caroline A. Alexander Sample was 
for many years a farmer in Lancaster county. 
He removed to Harrisburg, where he has 
been in business at intervals for thirty years. 
He was a partner of Oscar Jones in the ice 
cream and confectionery business at Carlisle 
for one year. He was in the St. Cloud Hotel 
in Philadelphia for two years, and from that 
house went to the Aldine Hotel, 1914 Chest- 
nut street. After thirteen years in Phila- 
delphia he returned to Harrisburg and witli 
his sons,Peter and John, purchased a lot,and 
erected a large building which he now occu- 
pies with a dry goods business. Mr. Sample 
has been a member of Brotherly Love 
Lodge, No. 896, G. U. 0. 0. F., for thirty 
years and belongs to No. 1, Household of 
Ruth. In political views he is a Rejmblican. 
He is a member of the African Methodist 
Episcopal church, State street, of which his 
deceased wife was also a member. 

John B. Sample received part of his edu- 
cation in his native county, and completed 
it in the schools of Dauphin county. At 
the age of fifteen he took a position in the 
Jones House, now known as the Common- 
wealth Hotel, and remained there three 
years. The next two years he was at the 
Bolton House. Thence he went to the Gross 
House, now Harris House ; thence to the 
Lochiel Hotel, where he was employed at in- 
tervals for eight years. He had a good rep- 
utation for honesty, and was respected by all 
who knew him. He was for three years at 
Niagara Falls ; then he went to Reading, 
where he was employed for six months in a 
hotel by Emanuel Long. Returning to 
Harrisburg he found employment for some 
years at the State Capitol and at the United 
States Hotel. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



599 



In January, 1881, he entered the railway 
mail service as weighmaster. He has the 
honor of being the first colored man em- 
ployed in the railroad mail service on the 
Middle division. His first run was between 
Harrisburg and Pittsburgh ; then between 
Harrisburg and Allentown, and from Har- 
risburg to New York. He was afterwards 
transferred to the Northern Central railroad 
where he was employed as clerk on the route 
between Harrisburg and Baltimore, and he 
successfully worked himself up to head clerk, 
in charge of the route, receiving a salary of 
one thousand dollars per year. After nearly 
twelve years' service he was compelled by 
failing health to resign his position. When 
he had regained his health he engaged in 
business in Harrisburg, with his father, 
where he has been up to the present time. 

Mr. Sample was married, November 10, 
1877, to Miss Maggie, daughter of William 
and Charlotte Weaver. They have had 
nine children, five of whom are living : 
Francis G., Ada E., Maria A., Alexander W., 
and Maud M. The deceased children were: 
Carrie A., Cora C, John G., and Blanche L. 

His wife was born June 10, 1858, and died 
October 4, 1895. She was a good mother 
and a devoted Christian, a member of the 
African Methodist church, on State street, 
and of the Household of Ruth. William 
Weaver, the father of Mrs. Sample, was born 
in Dauphin county, and was for many years 
a shoemaker. He married Miss Charlotte 
Chester, daughter of George and Jane 
Chester, who was born in Harrisburg, by 
whom he had four children. Those living 
are : Jennie, wife of Rev. John Palmer, of 
Philadelphia ; Alda, wife of George Brisco, 
and Fannie, wife of James Auter. The 
father died in Philadelphia and the mother 
died in Harrisburg, Pa. The grandparents 
of Mrs. Sample were natives of Maryland. 



Milnor, George W., merchant, was born 
at Philadelphia, Pa,, July 30, 1856. He is 
a son of Mahlon and Elizabeth (Neilson) 
Milnor. These worthy people were residents 
of Philadelphia until 1880, since which date 
they have resided at York, Pa. The}' had 
but two children : Elizabeth, wife of H. D. 
Rupp, a prominent merchant of York, Pa., 
and George W. The latter received the ad- 
vantages of a public school education in his 
native city. He began his business career 
as accountant and cashier in a large house- 
furnishing and fancy goods warehouse in 



Philadelphia. The ability he displayed and 
his fidelity won for him the position of man- 
ager of the establishment. He left his na- 
tive city in 1880, and engaged in business 
for himself at York, Pa. He removed to 
Harrisburg, in January, 1884, and associated 
himself in the mercantile business with 
George Hoyer, under the firm name of Hoyer 
& Milnor. He was married, in Delaware, to 
Sallie L. Cavender, daughter of Thomas and 
Lydia Cavender. They have no children. 
Mr. Milnor has represented the Fourth 
ward in the common council, and in April, 
1895, was elected president of that honorable 
bod}'. He takes an active part in all politi- 
cal contests on the side of the Republican 
party. He is a thorough business man, re- 
spected for his integrity. 



Quickel, Henry F., was born in York 
Pa., September 5, 1856. He is the son of 
John Quickel, native of York, and Mary 
Jane (Axe) Quickel, of New Bloomfield, Perry 
county, Pa., and their only living child, one 
child having died in infancy. When Henry 
was two years old the family removed to Me- 
chanicsburg, where his early life was spent. 
He passed through the public schools and 
also took the course of the Cumberland Val- 
ley Institute. He then learned the trade of 
coach painter and followed this occupation 
almost three years. 

In January, 1877, Mr. Quickel removed to 
Harrisburg and became a clerk in the hard 
ware store of Anthony King. He filled the 
place for fifteen months, at the end of which 
time he resigned and accepted a similar posi- 
tion with Henry Gilbert & Son. In 1882 he 
entered business for himself as dealer in 
boilers, engines, etc., purchasing the business 
of David Stevenson, Jr. He has conducted 
this business for the past thirteen years, and 
by his practical and reliable methods has 
achieved an enviable reputation as a business 
man, and made a marked success in his busi- 
ness career. He is justly regarded as one of 
the staunch, progressive and enterprising 
men of Harrisburg. He well merits the high 
esteem in which he is held and the liberal 
patronage extended to him. 

Henry F. Quickel was married at Harris- 
burg, November 13, 1883, to Mary Ellen Det- 
weiler. They have two sons: Ralph D., born 
August 23, 1885, and Kenneth M., born 
April 26, 1890. In politics Mr. Quickel is a 
Republican. He and his family are consist- 



600 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ent members of the Market Square Presbyte- 
rian church. Mr. Quickel officiated as organ- 
ist of this church from 1879 to 1886. 



Fahnestock, W. E., was born in Pitts- 
burgh, Pa., April 6, 1866; son of Walter B. 
and Mary L. (Eppley) Fahnestock. The father 
was a native of Pittsburgh, the mother was 
a daughter of Daniel Eppley, of Harrisburg. 
W. E. was reared in Pittsburgh and received 
his primary instruction in the schools of 
that city. He completed his education at 
Cornell University, graduating from that 
institution in the class of 1S87. In Septem- 
ber of the following year he came to Harris- 
burg and engaged in the dry goods business, 
forming a partnership with W. H. Lyter, 
under the firm name of Lyter & Fahnestock. 
The firm continued in business until Jan- 
uary 1,1894, when Mr. Fahnestock purchased 
the interest of his partner. He was promi- 
nently identified with the Masonic frater- 
nities, holding membership in the blue 
lodge, chapter, commandery, council and 
consistory. He was married, in 1888, to 
Mary L. VanOrder, daughter of Captain 
VanOrder, of Ithaca, N. Y. Their children 
are: Lena Ruth and Arnold VanOrder. 
Mr. Fahnestock attended St. Stephen's 
Protestant Episcopal church, of which his 
widow is a member. 



Democrat, and represented the Fourth ward, 
in common council for one term. He is a 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. & 
A. M., and attends the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Glover, John W., merchant tailor, was 
born in Perry county, Pa., October 22, 1820; 
son of George and Elizabeth Glover, the 
former a native of Perry county, the latter a 
native of Scotland. The father was a miller, 
and died on the farm on which he was born. 
They had five children, the only survivors 
of whom are John W. and Boyd, when last 
heard from residing in Kansas City. John 
W. received his education in Perry county, 
and came to Harrisburg, where he served an 
apprenticeship of two years at the trade of 
tailor, after which he entered business on 
his own account. He has been a continuous 
resident of the city since 1839, and has been 
in business for himself since 1841. He was 
married, in Harrisburg, April 20, 1843, to 
Helena H. Haines, a native of Philadelphia. 
They had these children : one who died in 
childhood; Edmund W., Brooklyn, N. Y.; 
Catherine, wife of E. A. Huber, residing in 
Sunbury, Pa.; John, deceased ; Helena, wife 
of H. C. Bosley, residing in Harrisburg ; 
Maurice, residing in Steelton, and Beverly 
W. Mr. Glover in his political views is a 



Gastrock, William, merchant tailor, Har- 
risburg, was born in the province of Saxony, 
Prussia, June 16, 1833. He is the only son 
of William and Dorothy R. Gastrock, both 
deceased, and both natives of Germany, 
where they spent their whole lives. His 
boyhood was passed in his native land. He 
took the regular course of studies in the state 
schools, completing it at the age of fourteen, 
He then entered upon an apprenticeship of 
three years to learn tailoring. Having 
served his time he worked as a journeyman 
until he reached the age of manhood. 

In 1854 he left his native country and 
came to America. He landed at Baltimore 
and proceeded at once to Harrisburg. For 
forty-two years he has been a continuous 
resident of this city and for thirty-three years 
of this time has been prominently identified 
with its business interests. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, April 22, 
1866, to Wilhelmina, daughter of Frank A. 
and Katherine Elmer, natives of Wurtem- 
berg, Germany. They had three children 
one of whom died in infancy. Those living 
are : Louisa M., wife of Charles Warkotsch, 
residing in Philadelphia, and William A., 
who is associated with his father in business, 
in Harrisburg, Pa. 

Mr. Gastrock is a Democrat. He and his 
family attend the German Lutheran church. 



Houtz, William H, merchant tailor, was 
born in Bethel township, Lebanon county, 
Pa., December 15, 1833. He is a son of the 
late William and Nancy (Hunsicker) Houtz. 
His grandparents were both natives of Leb- 
anon county. The grandfather was a farmer 
and distiller. He hauled the product of his 
distillery to Philadelphia by team, where he 
disposed of it and loaded his wagon for re- 
turn with merchandise of various kinds. He 
had eight children, only one of whom sur- 
vives, John, a farmer living in Indiana. 

William Houtz, the father of William H, 
was born in Bethel township, Lebanon 
county, Pa., January 1, 1803. He was a son 
of Henry Houtz. In his younger days he 
was engaged in farming. He also conducted 
a distillery for about fifteen years. He was 
married, in 1826, to Nancy, daughter of Chis- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



601 



tiau and Sally (Newcomer) Hunsicker, a 
native of Bethel township, Lebanon county. 
They had twelve children, nine of whom are 
living : Henry, David, William, Samuel, 
Lydia, wife of John Ritter, Daniel, Nancy, 
wife of John Yorker, Elias, and Elizabeth, 
wife of John Sholley. Two children died in in- 
fancy and Samuel died in October, 1894, at 
the age of sixty years. William Houtz died 
December 24, 1894, at the advanced age of 
ninety-three years, on the old homestead in 
Lebanon count}'. 

William H. Houtz had very limited op- 
portunities for receiving an education. He 
is practically a self-made man, in the best 
sense of that word, for his success in life is 
the result of his own efforts, industry and 
energy. At the age of seventeen he learned 
the trade of tailor and has followed it through 
life. In 1848 he came to Harrisburg and en- 
gaged to work at his trade with Adam Mc- 
Afee, continuing in his employ for sixteen 
years. On August 7, 1864, he enlisted in com- 
any H, Two Hundred and First regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and served in the 
army for nearly one year. He was discharged 
June 11, 1865. While on picket duty he was 
struck on the head by a fragment of a shell. 
After returning from the army he moved to 
Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., and engaged in farming for four years ; 
then moved back to Harrisburg and worked 
at his trade for William Sayford. December 
31, 1879, he moved to No. 306 Broad street, 
and engaged in business for himself. In 
1884 he bought the large and commodious 
property lately owned by Mr. Ensminger, 
where he has carried on his business and 
where he still resides. He has been a mem- 
ber of Castle No. 40, K. of G. E., for twelve 
years, being one of the charter members. He 
is also a member of City Lodge, No. 301, I. 0. 
O. F. He has been a member of the Improved 
Order of Heptasophs for about eleven years. 
Mr. Houtz is a Republican. He was married, 
July 5, 1852, to Mary, daughter of William 
and Magdalena Douglass. They had three 
children : Adam D., Mary E, wife of Robert 
Gher, and William B, died in 1861, at the 
age of five years and four months. His wife 
died June 5, 1875, at the age of fifty-two 
years. He was married, the second time, 
July 5, 1876, to Elizabeth, daughter of Daniel 
andMary (Mellinger) Stroh. They have no 
children. 

William Douglass, the father of Mary 
(Douglass) Houtz, the first wife of William 



H. Houtz, was a farmer of Scotch descent. 
He married Miss Gibble, a native of Lebanon 
county. They had four children, one of whom 
survives, John, living in Indiana. Their 
deceased children are : Jeremiah, Benjamin, 
Peter and Mary. For many years Mr. Doug- 
lass taught school in winter and served as 
pilot on the river in summer. He was mar- 
ried the second time to Miss Walter. They 
had five children : Uriah, Henry, Franklin, 
Archibald and Catherine. 

Elizabeth Stroh, the second wife of William 
H. Houtz, was born January 26, 1848. Her 
parents were natives of Lebanon county. 
Her father, Daniel Stroh, was born in Feb- 
ruary, 1802. He learned wagon making and 
followed this occupation for many years. For 
twenty-six years he taught school. He was 
married, in 1833, to Mary, daughter of Jacob 
and Mary (Gebhard) Mellinger. They had 
seven children, four of whom are living: 
Leah, Mary, Elizabeth, and Sally, wife of 
John Connor. Three children died in in- 
' fancy. In 1S61 Daniel Stroh was elected 
recorder of wills of Lebanon county and 
served for three years. In 1865 he was ap- 
pointed postmaster of Annville, Pa. He held 
this office at the time of his death, having 
served six years. He died, in 1871, aged 
sixty-two and was highly esteemed by all 
who knew him. He was a Republican and 
was a member of the Lutheran church. 

Mary Mellinger, the mother of Mrs. Houtz, 
was born in Lebanon county, February 20. 
1814, and died in Harrisburg, August 25, 
1884, at the age of seventy years. 

Bbrnheisel, Luther, merchant tailor, 
was born in Perry county, Pa., April 1, 1834. 
He is a son of George and Susan (Kepner) 
Bernheisel. His maternal grandfather, John 
Kepner, was a farmer, and one of the 
wealthiest men in Juniata county. George 
Bernheisel was a native of Perry county 
and a merchant. He was married to Miss 
Susan, daughter of John and Elizabeth 
(Loye) Kepner, who was also born in Perry 
county. Three of their children are living : 
John C, Cornelius and Luther. The de- 
ceased children are : Catherine, who died at 
the age of fourteen ; Jacob, and Samuel, who 
died from wounds received at the battle of 
Lookout Mountain. Mr. George Bernheisel 
and his wife were members of the Lutheran 
church. 

Luther Bernheisel received a limited edu- 
cation. He attended the public schools at 



602 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



intervals until he was about fourteen, when 
he began to serve a four years' apprentice- 
ship at tailoring with Patterson Alexander, 
in Juniata county. At the end of this term 
he was employed for a few months by Mr. 
Howell. He then worked a few months for 
Mr. Stroup, in Mifflintown, Juniata county, 
then seven months for Christian Metz, of 
Williamsburg, Blair county, Pa. He at- 
tended the first State fair held in Harrisburg 
and during his stay in the city visited some 
of his relatives. After this he returned to 
Blair county and spent eight months work- 
ing for his former employer, Mr. Metz. In 
1856 Mr. Bernheisel went into the tailoring 
business for himself, purchasing the estab- 
lishment formerly owned by Squire Howell, 
at Pleasant Hill, Juniata county, which he 
conducted for a few years. He was next in 
business for sometime at Green Park, Perry 
county, Pa., and lived there three years when 
the war broke out. Mr. Bernheisel enlisted, 
August 20, 1861 , for three years, in company 
H, Forty-seventh regiment, Pennsylvania* 
volunteers. He again enlisted at Fort Jef- 
ferson, in 1863. He was discharged at Camp 
Cadwallader, January 11, 1866. He was 
wounded at the battle of Cedar Creek, Shen- 
andoah Valley, under General Sheridan. 
He took part in the battles of Pocotalgo, S. 
C, also Sabina Cross Roads, Pleasant Hill, 
and King River, in Louisiana ; Berryville, 
Cedar Creek, and Fisher's Hill, Va. During 
his service he was in eleven States, took 
eleven trips on the ocean and was in eleven 
battles. 

After the war he returned to Green Park 
and was in the tailoring business there for 
a short period, and then for three years at 
Andersonburg, Perry county. He then re- 
moved to New Bloomfield, where he was en- 
gaged for three years, and from there to 
Newport. Three years later he bought out the 
business of David Care, at Harrisburg, and 
established himself at 106 Market street. 
After a few years he sold his business and 
was for twelve years with Mr. Coover, as 
manager of his tailoring department. Mr. 
Bernheisel was again in business on his 
own account for one year, at 121 Market 
street, and afterwards removed to the oppo- 
site side of the street, at the corner of Mar- 
ket Square. Later he was with Mr. Coover 
in the Harrisburg Manufacturing Company 
as cutter. While in this position he re- 
moved his family to the corner of Boas and 
Green streets. Between 1892 and 1893 he 



resigned his position and established him- 
self in business at his residence, where he has 
built up an important trade. 

Mr. Bernheisel was first married, at Will- 
iamsburg, Blair county, Pa., March 4, 1856, 
to Miss Catherine, daughter of George 
Winters, born in 1835, in Blair county. 
Thev had twelve children. Those now 
living are : Charles 0., Susan, wife of Charles 
Snyder; Robert N., Frank W., Bessie M., 
wife of William Shoemaker, Rachel, Mattie, 
wife of George Briggles, and Lewis C. Their 
deceased children are: Alice E., died Feb- 
ruary 3, 1859, aged seven months ; Edwin 
M., died October 10, 1862, aged two years ; 
Luther A., died August 24, 1865, aged 
one year ; Frank L., died December 16, 1868, 
aged six months. Mrs. Bernheisel died, 
February 1, 1888, aged fifty-three years. 

Mr. Bernheisel was married again, October 
1, 1891, to Miss Susan E., daughter of Josiah 
and Salome (Lenhart) Sheets. They had 
two children, Harry S. and Harvey Da Foe, 
who died June 19, 1894, aged four weeks. 

Mr. Bernheisel is a member of Post No. 
58, G. A. R., and for many years has been a 
member of the U. V. L., No. 67. He is a 
Republican and a member of the Messiah 
Lutheran church. 

The parents of the first Mrs. Bernheisel 
were natives of Blair county. Her father 
was a farmer, and was also engaged in mer- 
cantile business. 

The parents of the second Mrs. Bernheisel 
were natives of Dauphin county. Her 
father was a farmer, and still resides in Dau- 
phin county. He has held various town- 
ship offices and is a director of the Halifax 
Bank. His politics are Democratic. He is 
a member of the Lutheran church. 



McCreery, George J., merchant tailor, 
was born in Harrisburg, December 20, 1834; 
son of William and Ann M. (Jones) Mc- 
Creery. He removed with his parents to 
Westmoreland county when he was a child, 
and there was reared and received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of Ligonier Val- 
ley. He served part of his apprenticeship 
at" the tailor trade in his native township, 
but completed it at Philadelphia, where he 
worked at his trade of tailoring and cutting 
until 1885. For the past ten years he has 
conducted a merchant tailoring business in 
Harrisburg. He was married, in Pottsville, 
Pa., October 3, 1867, to Catherine L. Kurtz, 
of Pottsville, to whom no children have been 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



603 



born. Mr. McCreery is a member of Will- 
iamsport Lodge, No. 106, F. & A. M. In 
political views he is a Republican. He and 
his wife attend the Pine Street Presbyterian 
church. 



Froehlich, John, merchant tailor, was 
born in Hesse Cassel, Germany, July 31, 
1835. He is a son of Herman and Mary 
(Rohde) Froehlich, both of Germany, who 
lived and died in their native land. The 
father was born August 1, 1800, and died 
June 24, 1848; the mother was born in 1813, 
and died January 16, 1876. These parents 
had four children, three of whom are living: 
Martha Elizabeth, wife of Henry Bickel, re- 
siding on the old homestead; John, and 
Annie E., wife of John Lindenberger, living 
in Rock Island, 111. 

John Froehlich grew to manhood in his 
native laud. He was educated in the State 
schools, and learned the trade of tailor. At 
twenty-two years of age, in 1857, he left the 
paternal home to seek his fortune in the New 
World. He reached New York September 
4, 1857, and proceeded to Harrisburg, where 
he took up his residence on September 8. 
For the past thirty-nine years he has been 
an honored resident of this city, and for over 
thirty years he has been one of its represen- 
tativeand progressive business men. In 1871 
Mr. Froehlich paid a visit to his native land, 
and after spending four months there with 
friends and relatives returned to Harrisburg. 
He was married, in Harrisburg, September 
29, 1859, to Christiana Miller, daughter of 
the late John and Elizabeth (Knouse) Miller. 
They have a family of ten children : George 
H., born February 22, 1861, married Jose- 
phine Mayer, has one child, resides in Brook- 
lyn, N. Y"; Mary Anna, born April 23, 1863, 
wife of Isaac M. Over, has three children, 
Helen, Annie, and Rebecca, lives in Harris- 
burg; Anna Amelia, born July 27, 1865, 
living at home; Frederick William, born 
March 30, 1867, married June 6, 1893, to 
Miss Annie H, daughter of the late Jacob 
and Mary A. Elder, of Harrisburg, was edu- 
cated in the Harrisburg publicschools, learned 
the system of cutting, taught in the cutting 
schools of Philadelphia and New York, and 
January, 1893, was admitted to a partner- 
ship in his father's business; John Herman, 
born February 10, 1870, living in Harris- 
burg; Charles Martin, born September 5, 
1872, living in Harrisburg; ; Edward Henry, 
born October 27, 1874, living in Kane, Pa.; 



Albert F., born January 9, 1877, living in 
Harrisburg; Martin Luther, born December 
29, 1879, living in Harrisburg; Paul, born 
January 12, 1882, living in Harrisburg. 

Mr. and Mrs. Froehlich are members of St. 
Michael's German Lutheran church. In this 
church their children were all baptized and 
confirmed. Some members of the family now 
attend Bethlehem Lutheran church. 



Shearer, Joseph L., was born in Harris- 
burg, March 18, 1843; son of Joseph and 
Margaret (Small) Shearer, the former of 
Franklin, the latter of Cumberland county. 
The father came to Dauphin county in 183S 
and settled at Harrisburg, where he engaged 
in the merchant tailor business, in which he 
continued until 1893, when he retired from 
active business. In politics he is a Repub- 
lican, and was originally a Free Soiler. He 
has served as a member of the council. He 
is not connected with any church. His 
children are: Joseph H; Mary, wife of W. 
P. Denehey, of Harrisburg ; Samuel B., 
broom manufacturer; Clara R, Mrs. C. A. 
Dean, of Denver, Col. Joseph L. was edu- 
cated in the common schools and learned 
the tailor trade with his father, which he 
followed for twenty-five years, and for the 
past five years has been in the gentlemen's 
furnishing business. In political principles 
he is with the Republican party. Mr. 
Shearer was married, in 1S66, to Miss Anna 
M. Meyers, daughter of Samuel W. Meyers. 
Their children are: Fannie, Mrs. Martin 
Buehler, of Harrisburg ; Samuel G., ma- 
chinist, of Harrisburg; Joseph L., Jr., and 
Clara R. Mr. Shearer, in 1862, enlisted in 
an independent cavalry company, and after 
three months' service was mustered out. He 
re-enlisted in 1864 in company I, Seventy- 
seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
in which he was a sergeant, and served on 
skirmish duty. He was finally mustered 
out at Victoria, Texas, in 1865. In 1869 lie 
went to Denver, Col., and New Mexico on a 
Government survey. Mr. Shearer and his 
family are members of the Zion Lutheran 
church. 



Ross, Harry C, merchant tailor, was 
born in Lewistown, Pa., February 1, 1848; 
son of William and Margaret M. (Law}'er) 
Ross. The father was born in Fermanagh, 
Ireland, and came to America with his 
parents when a child, locating at Thomp- 
sontown, Pa., where he was reared to man- 



604 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



hood. He resided at Lewistown many 
years and was for some time editor of the 
Lewistown Gazette. He served in several 
government offices and represented Mifflin 
county in the State Legislature. His death 
occurred at Lewistown in 1860. The mother 
was born in Harrisburg and is now a resi- 
dent of the city. Their children are : Harry 
O; Joseph D.; Mary L., wife of George Wolfe, 
of Altoona ; Margaret, wife of John Contner, 
of Milroy, Mifflin county ; Jennie, wife of 
Eobert Delette, of Washington, D. C. Harry 
C. was reared in Lewistown and received 
his education in the public schools and 
when very young became a clerk in a gen- 
eral store. In 1864 he enlisted in company 
H, One Hundred and Ninety-fifth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and re-enlisted in 
company M, Seventh regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia cavalry, in which he served until the 
close of the war and was discharged at 
Nashville, Tenn., in June, 1865. For sev- 
eral years he was engaged as a clerk at Lew- 
istown and later learned the tailoring busi- 
ness, at which lie worked in Harrisburg 
from 1874 to 1878, after which he engaged 
in business for himself. Mr. Ross married, 
first, at Lewistown, Miss Elizabeth M. 
Thrush, daughter of Rev. John and Rachel 
Thrush, of Lewistown, to whom was born 
one son, John C, residing at Harrisburg. 
He married, secondly, at Harrisburg, Eliza- 
beth I. Herr, daughter of David S. and 
Sarah 0. Herr. Their children are : David 
Herr and James Spencer. Mr. Ross is a 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, E. 
& A. M., Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, Pil- 
grim Commandery, No. 11, Harrisburg Con- 
sistory and Scottish Rite, and is also a mem- 
ber of Lewistown Lodge, No. 97, I. 0. 0. E., 
and Lulu Temple, of Philadelphia. In 
his political views Mr. Ross is a staunch Re- 
publican. The family attend the Methodist 
Episcopal church. 



Shope, George F., merchant tailor, was 
born in Linglestown, Dauphin county, Pa., 
February 19, 1857. He is a son of John and 
Mary (Mason) Shope, who are referred to in 
the Halifax sketches in this volume. His 
parents removed when he was six years old 
to Dauphin, Dauphin county, where he was 
educated in the common schools. He then 
became an apprentice to the tailoring busi- 
ness. After completing his apprenticeship, 



which he did in Williamsport, Pa., he worked 
for two years in that city as journeyman. 
He then went to Harrisburg and worked as 
journeyman there. In 1879 he returned to 
Dauphin where he was in business for him- 
self for thirteen years. Since February, 1892, 
he has been in business in Harrisburg. 

He was married in Dauphin, January 20, 
1881, to Miss Mary J., daughter of Jacob and 
Catherine Stephenson, of Dauphin. They 
have five children : Edna C, Alice W., Harry 
S., James A. and Paul F. 

Mr. Shope has served one term as auditor 
of the borough of Dauphin, and one term as 
school director and treasurer. He is an ac- 
tive member of Paxton Lodge, No. 621, of 
Dauphin, of Nazareth Commandery, No. 
125, K. of M., of Harrisburg, and of Capital 
City Council, No. 325, Jr. 0. U. A. M. He 
is a Republican in politics. He and his wife 
are members of Thirteenth Street Methodist 
Episcopal church. 

Myers, Charles, merchant tailor, was 
born near Gettysburg, Adams county, Pa., 
March 6, 1860, and is a son of Rolandus and 
Sophia Myers. His parents were both na- 
tives of Adams county and of German ex- 
traction. The father was a master painter 
and followed his trade. He was an honored 
resident of Harrisburg for twenty-five years. 
He died February 25, 1890. The mother 
survives and at present resides in Harris- 
burg. Two of their children died in infancy. 
The survivors are : Charles ; Ida M., wife of 
W. H. Keener ; Alice K., wife of Ira D. Rit- 
ner ; Jesse J., residing in Philadelphia ; 
William H., and George C, both residing in 
Columbus, Ohio. 

Charles Myers lived in Adams county 
until he was five years old. In 1865 he came 
with his parents to Harrisburg and has since 
been a continuous resident of this city. He 
was educated in the Harrisburg public 
schools and was afterwards employed by 
John Froehlich, merchant tailor, for over 
nineteen years. In March, 1891, he engaged 
in business for himself. 

He was married in Harrisburg, November 
3, 1887, to Mary L., only daughter of E. O. 
and Elizabeth Dare, of Harrisburg. They 
have one son, Joseph D. 

Mr. Myers is a member of B. & P. 0. of 
Elks, No. 241. In political views he is Dem- 
ocratic. He attends Bethlehem Lutheran 
church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



605 



Moore, Austin A., merchant tailor, Har- 
risburg, was born in Burnside township, 
Clearfield county, Pa.. October 6, 1866. He 
is a son of the late William and Cordelia 
(Stonebarger) Moore. His father was born 
in Burnside township, Clearfield county, 
where he spent his life in farming. He 
served his country faithfully during the late 
war of the Rebellion, and died at the early 
age of fifty-six.. The mother was born in 
Blair county, Pa., and after her marriage 
resided in Clearfield county until 1893, since 
which date she has resided in Harrisburg. 
They had six children : Minnie, wife of 
Elmer Brickley; Austin A., Blanche, Stella 
and Frank, all living. 

Austin A. Moore spent his youth in his 
native township, where he enjoyed the ad- 
vantages of a public school education. He 
conducted his father's farm for a year after 
finishing school, and subsequently removed 
to Altoona, Pa., where he learned tailoring. 
He followed this occupation in Altoona for 
seven years. In May, 1889, he removed to 
Harrisburg, and in January, 1895, engaged 
in business for himself. He was married, in 
Altoona, July 21,1884, to Jennie, daughter of 
the late Thomas and Mary Bernard, of Al- 
toona. They had five children, three of 
whom died in childhood. Their surviving 
children are : William Earl, born June 17, 
1885, and Thomas Paul, born October 12, 
1895. Mr. Moore is an active member of 
Oornplanter Tribe, No. 61, I. 0. R. M.; of 
Dauphin Castle, No. 250, K. of G. E., and of 
Mt. Vernon Council, No. 333, Jr. 0. U. A. M. 
He also belongs to the Mt. Vernon Hook and 
Ladder Company and to the Governor's 
Troop. In political views he is a Republi- 
can. He attends the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Heard, Frank S., merchant tailor, Har- 
risburg, Pa., was born in Hagerstown, Md., 
February 4, 1867. He is a son of Franklin 
A. and Mary (Mobley) Heard. Franklin A. 
Heard was born in Hagerstown, June 10, 
1826, and with the exception of a few years 
of his boyhood spent in Cincinnati, Ohio, 
has been a continuous resident of that city 
all his life. He is a printer by trade and 
published the Weekly Chronicle at Hagers- 
town for fourteen years. In 1854 he com- 
menced in the mercantile business in Hagers- 
town and is at present the oldest merchant 
in business in Hagerstown. He was married, 
February 5, 1849, to Mary Mobley, who was 



born in Wheeling, W. Va., December 25, 1827, 
and at the age of six moved to Hagerstown, 
and has ever since resided there. They have 
had six children: William, died, aged three 
years; Laura S., wife of R. M. Hays; Ella, 
wife of J. E. Stonebraker ; C. Edward ; Al- 
bert, and Frank S., all, excepting the last 
named, residing in Hagerstown. 

Frank S. Heard spent his boyhood and 
youth in Hagerstown, Md., and was educated 
in the public schools of that city. After 
leaving school he was apprenticed to the 
tailoring business. He learned the cutting 
branch of the business at the cutting school 
of John J. Mitchell, New York City. After 
acquiring a thorough knowledge of the work 
he was for nine years employed as cutter in 
a tailoring establishment at Hagerstown. 
In 1893 he came to Harrisburg and since 
that date has been in business for himself in 
this city. By a strict regard for the wants 
and interests of his patrons, and by honorable 
dealing and good workmanship, Mr. Heard 
has achieved enviable success. He has 
built up a profitable and rapidly growing 
business. He is highly esteemed in business 
and in social circles. 

He was married in Hagerstown, April 21, 
1892, to Miss Cladie M., daughter of Jere- 
miah and Nettie Funk, of Washington 
county, Md. They have two children: 
Robert L. and Catherine M., both living. 

Mr. Heard is a member of Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M., of Harrisburg; 
Ithiel Chapter, No. 27, R. A. M., of Hagers- 
town, Md.; Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11, 
K. T., Harrisburg; Valley Lodge, No. 70, 
K. of P., Hagerstown ; Harrisburg Ruling, 
No. 440, Fraternal Mystic Circle. In politi- 
cal views he is a Republican. He attends 
the Lutheran church. 



Mowry, Morgan A., general manager of 
the Star Steam Laundry, was born in Liver- 
pool, Perry county, Pa., May 15, 1851; son 
of Ephraim L. and Emma C. (Harris) 
Mowry. Ephraim L. Mowry was born in 
Shamokin, Northumberland county, Pa., of 
which county Mrs. Mowry was also a native. 
Eight of their thirteen children are living: 
Rufus, Monroe, Morgan A., Louis, Thomas, 
Frederick, Minnie, and Jennie. The de- 
ceased children are: Mary, Catherine, Cora, 
Ellen and Louis. Mrs. Mowry died in 1895; 
Mr. Mowry still survives and resides at 
Elmira, N. Y. 

Morgan A. Mowry was educated in the 



606 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



public schools of Lewisburg, Union county, 
Pa., where his parents removed when he was 
about nine years old. He began early to 
make his own way in the world, leaving 
home when he was but sixteen. He has 
been a continuous resident of Harrisburg 
since 1873. Immediately upon his arrival 
in that city he was employed in the White 
Hall Hotel, of which he was clerk, for ten 
years. Since 1883 he has been connected 
with the Star Steam Laundry. Since the 
death of Mr. and Mrs. Yinger, the proprie- 
tors, he has conducted the business in the 
interest of the estate. 

Morgan A. Mowry was married, in Harris- 
burg, December 9, 1880, to Anna Mary 
Springer, born in New Market, York county, 
Pa. Their children are: David, Albert, Bes- 
sie Ann, and one that died in infancy. Mr. 
Mowry is an active member of Bayard Lodge, 
No. 150, K. of P., also of Goldsmith Division, 
No. 50, Uniformed Rank, K. of P. He is a 
Democrat. Mr. Mowry and his family at- 
tend Bethlehem Lutheran church. 



Klemm, Charles Augustus, senior mem- 
ber of the firm of Klemm & Rahe, proprie- 
tors of the City Steam Laundry, was born 
in Hainichen, in the kingdom of Saxony, 
Germany, October 9, 1851. He is a son of 
Frederick William and Christine (Rife) 
Klemm. Frederick William Klemm was a 
native of Saxony. He was a stone quarrier, 
and died in 1883. His wife, Christine Rife, a 
native of the same town, survives him and 
resides in her native country ; she is seventy- 
two years of age. They had seven children : 
Charles Augustus is the only one of them 
who came to America. The others are Fred- 
erick W., Franz Edward. Maria Bertha, 
Augusta Christine, Amelia Ross and Laura 
Bertha, all residents of Germany. 

Charles Augustus Klemm passed his boy- 
hood and youth in German}' and was edu- 
cated in the public schools of his native 
town. His school education finished, he 
served an apprenticeship of three and a half 
years to the trade of cloth weaving, and con- 
tinued to work at it as journeyman for two 
years more. He was then drafted into the 
German army in which he served three 
years. When discharged from the army he 
resumed work at his trade and was em- 
ployed in different parts of Germany until 
1882. In March, 1882, he emigrated to Amer- 
ica. He landed at New York, April 9, 1882, 
and after a few days' stay in that city came 



to Harrisburg. This city has been his place 
of residence since that time. For eleven 
years he was employed as an attendant in 
the State Lunatic Asylum. On July 1, 1895, 
he formed a partnership with Henry J. 
Rahe and engaged in his present business. 
He has been twice married. His first wife 
was Anna, daughter of Ernest and Mina 
Hempel, of Harrisburg, who died August 
24, 1891, without children. His second 
marriage, in which he was united to Frieda 
Alwine, daughter of Julius and Augusta 
Ahlefeld, a native of Hanover, Germany, oc- 
curred in Harrisburg, February 12, 1894. 
They have-one son, Paul Ahlefeld. In 1893 
Mr. Klemm paid a visit to his old home and 
his mother in Germany. After a pleasant 
stay of two months he returned to America 
and it was upon his return voyage that he 
made the acquaintance of his second wife. 
Mr. Klemm is a member of Peace and 
Plenty Lodge, No. 69, I. 0. O F., and of 
Hermann Castle, No. 337, K. of G. E. He is 
a Democrat. He and his wife are members 
of the Lutheran church. 



Rahe, Henry J., of the firm of Klemm & 
Rahe, proprietors of the City Steam Laundry, 
was born in Fairview township, York county, 
Pa., January 6, 1854. He is a son of Henry 
and Dorothy (Hull) Rahe. Henry Rahe was 
born in Germany and came to America early 
in life. He settled in York county, as a farmer. 
He died September 15, 1891. His wife, Doro- 
thy Hull, was also a native of Germany and 
came to this countrv in her vouth. She died 
February 18, 1890." They had ten children, 
seven of whom are living: Henry J., An- 
drew, Lewis M., Anna D., widow of Milton 
Sunday, John, Charles, and Samuel. The 
deceased children are: Emma, William and 
John. Heury J. Rahe when but four years 
of age went with his parents from the farm 
to the town of York, Pa. His education was 
received in the public schools of that town. 
He next learned the carpenter's trade, com- 
pleting his apprenticeship in 1873. He went 
to the State of Indiana, and on January 6, 
1874, located at Richmond, where for three 
years he was engaged in working at his trade 
and in contracting. Returning to Pennsyl- 
vania, he was for two years employed in 
mining ore near Spring Grove, York county. 
Having sold his interest in the mines he was 
for three seasons engaged in threshing grain. 
For a few months following this time he was 
interested in a bottling concern. He next 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



607 



removed to Harrisburg and for seven months 
conducted a grocery store. Selling this out, 
he engaged for a short time in the renova- 
tion of feathers. He then took up the work 
of contracting and building, which he car- 
ried on until July 1, 1895. At this date he 
formed a partnership with Mr. Klemm and 
purchased the City Steam Laundry. He is 
still interested in this business, which is con- 
ducted under the firm name of Klemm & 
Rahe. He was married in York, November 
14, 1880, to Martha J., daughter of Samuel and 
Caroline (Fissel) Stambaugh. They have 
had three children : Louis Edward, who died 
in childhood; and the surviving ones are: 
Mary Ellen and Charles Henry. Mr. Rahe 
is Democratic in his political views. He at- 
tends the Presbyterian church. 



Hogentogler, Harry Grant, junior 
member of the firm of Hogentogler Bros., 
proprietors of the Palace Steam Laundry, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Columbia, Lan- 
caster county, Pa., December 20, 1863. He 
is a son of Joseph and Esther (Sourbier) 
Hogentogler, a sketch of whom appears in 
this volume. 

He was educated in the public schools and 
after leaving school was for a time employed 
as salesman. Subsequently he was in the 
service of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany for about four years. In 1884 he came 
to Harrisburg, where he engaged in the 
grocery business. On May 9, 1892, uniting 
with his brother under the firm name of 
Hogentogler Bros., they established the 
Palace Steam Laundry. In 1894 he sold his 
interest in the grocery and since that date 
has given his entire attention to the laundry 
business. 

He was married in Camden, N. J., No- 
vember 4, 1889, to Miss Millie, daughter of 
Thomas and Catherine Mullen, of Columbia, 
Pa. They have two children : Joseph Ray 
and Esther Catherine. 

At the general election of 1896 Mr. Hogen- 
togler was chosen judge of elections. In his 
political views he is a Republican. He and 
his family attend the Market Square Presby- 
terian church. 



Fink, Henry. — The business solidity and 
commercial prosperity of Harrisburg is due 
to those men who have achieved success for 
themselves and by their generous public 
spirit have made the community sharers in 
the fruits of their enterprise and ability ; 



and among this class of men stands Henry 
Fink, proprietor of the Keystone brewery. 
His parents, Conrad and Helen (Bischof) 
Fink, were natives of Germany, and resi- 
dents of the province of Hesse Cassel, where 
Henry was born September 7, 1835. Besides 
this son they had two others, Volpert and 
Frederick C, for all of whom they made the 
most ample provision in the way of educa- 
tion and business training. Desirous of see- 
ing their sons started in business where there 
would be open to them the broadest fields 
and the fullest opportunities for enterprise 
and achievement, they resolved to come to 
the United States. This purpose they ac- 
complished in 1854, in which year they 
settled in Harrisburg. The parents did not 
long live to enjoy the benefits of the new 
country, and were not permitted to see how 
wisely they had chosen for their sons. Mr. 
Fink died at Harrisburg in 1855 and his 
faithful wife died in 1867. 

Henry Fink had richly profited by his 
education in the German schools and was 
enabled to discern the business situation 
and the needs and possibilities of the com- 
munity in the line along which he desired 
to act. But among the most valuable and 
practical of his German attainments were 
his knowledge of his trade and his acquaint- 
ance with all the details and methods of the 
brewing business which enabled him to take 
advantage of one of the most inviting oppor- 
tunities for skill and enterprise. The possible 
improvement and indefinite enlargement 
and the absolute certainty of resulting 
profits of the business to anyone of the ca- 
pacity to conduct it wisely were clearly in 
his view. There must be a beginning, and 
it might be a small one, but no matter for 
that, for the growth was certain. 

The first work of Mr. Fink in Harrisburg 
was in the Barnitz brewery, which was not 
a very large establishment, but was a place 
where honest work was done, and where re- 
liable and excellent products were made. 
While working here, Mr. Fink was doing 
good service for his employer and was every 
day learning the business more thoroughly. 
He was industrious and frugal, and was 
gradually accumulating means to enter busi- 
ness for himself. In 1862 Mr. Fink found 
that the time had come for his own venture. 
He secured a lease of the brewery where he 
had been employed, and at once engaged in 
brewing ale and porter. He resolved that 
the quality of his products must first be es- 



608 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



tablished so that his brands would have an 
indisputable standing in the markets, that 
this grade must be maintained at any cost 
and that all increase in the capacity of his 
brewery and the output of goods must be 
made in consistency with this high quality. 
He has pursued this course wisely and care- 
fully, and has made enlargement and im- 
provement from time to time, all the while 
maintaining his reputation for manufactur- 
ing the best beer and ale on the market. 
In 1881 he was obliged to have larger build- 
ings and proceeded to erect the magnificent 
structure which now accommodates his 
business and which is the largest brewery in 
the city, equipped regardless of cost with 
all known and most modern appliances for 
his manufacture. In his progress in busi- 
ness Mr. Fink has added the manufacture of 
lager beer, and has provided his plant with 
every facility for making this popular bev- 
erage of the highest degree of excellence. 

Mr. Fink was united in marriage in 1857 
to Christina Katharine Beyer, a native of 
Wurtemberg, Germany, who came to Amer- 
ica in 1852. Seven children have been born 
to them : Frederick J.; Katherine, wife of 
James Q. Handshaw, of Harrisburg ; Bertha 
Helen ; Henry C, who renders his father 
most valuable assistance in the office as an 
accountant ; Robert B.; Christina K., wife of 
Milton Plank, and Henrietta, deceased. In 
his political views Mr. Fink is in accord 
with the Democratic party. The family 
attend the services of the Lutheran church. 
While Mr. Fink congratulates himself on 
the success of his private business he also 
regards with great gratification the growth 
and prosperity of the city and is a recognized 
leader among the many public-spirited citi- 
zens who are planning and promoting the 
common welfare. 



Johnson, Clement B., was born in Har- 
risburg, March 29, 1850. He is a son of Will- 
iam B., native of Hanover, York count}', Pa'., 
and Rose A. (McFadden) Johnson, a native 
of Lebanon, Pa., and of north of Ireland an- 
cestry. His father was engaged in business 
in Harrisburg for many years. He opened 
up the marble quarries at Chimney Ridge, 
Hollidaysburg. He was also engaged in 
business at Pottsville, Carlisle, Chambers- 
burg, Zanesville, Ohio, and Somerset, Ohio. 
The parents both died at Harrisburg, the 
father in April, 1854, the mother, August 29, 
1892. This family consisted of eight chil- 



dren, three of whom are living: James A., 
Fannie L., a teacher in the grammar school, 
and Clement B. He was educated in the 
public schools of Harrisburg, and after leav- 
ing school learned telegraphy in the employ- 
ment of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany. He was engaged in this vocation 
twenty-one years. In 1887 he engaged in 
the bottling business. He was married, in 
Harrisburg, November 17, 1885, to Mary A. 
Russ, daughter of Louis and Carolinda 
Russ, both natives of Lucca, Italy. Three 
children have been born to them : William 
L., Maria F., and Herschel L. In politics 
he has always been a Democrat. The family 
attend St. Patrick's Pro-Cathedral. Mr. 
Johnson is a public-spirited citizen and a 
successful and honorable business man. 



Dressel, Christ A., Was born in Aoch- 
stadt, Bavaria, Germany, January 4, 1854. 
He is a son of Burkort and Josephina Dressel. 
His parents both died in Germany, his father 
March 19, 1870, and his mother December 2, 
1870. They had five children, four of whom 
are living. Andrew, butcher, in Pittsburgh, 
Pa., and Christ A. are the only members of 
the family who have come to America. 
Christ A. Dressel was educated in the State 
schools and in the Trade Academy of his 
native place. He then learned the business 
of brewing with his father. In 1872 he 
came to America and worked at brewing in 
Philadelphia for six months. Thence he 
removed to Lancaster, Pa., where he resided 
two years, and subsequently spent one year 
in Columbia. In 1876 he removed to Har- 
risburg, where for seventeen years he was 
engaged in the brewing business. He was 
married, in Lancaster, Pa., September 21, 
1875, to Caroline, daughter of Fritz and 
Barbara (Kopp) Beck, born in Wurtemberg, 
June 1, 1854. They have no children, but 
have adopted a son, Walter Beck, born July 
14, 1882. Mr. Dressel is a member of the 
German Beneficial Society. In politics he is 
a Democrat. 



Lyons, William H, wholesale beer bottler, 
of the firm of Lyons & Treon, was born in 
Upper Augusta, Northumberland .county, 
Pa., September 8, 1856. He is a son of 
Robert and Barbara (Cotner) Lyons, who 
were both natives of Montour county. His 
father was a prominent farmer of Northum- 
berland county, and died in Upper Augusta 
township, where he spent the greater part of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



609 



his life. William H. Lyons was reared to 
manhood in his native county, on his father's 
farm. He received the ordinary education 
afforded by the district school, and there 
learned the carpenter trade. For some years 
he was engaged in the hotel business in Sun- 
bury. In 1888 he engaged in the lumber 
business and continued it for six years. In 
the summer of 1894 he built the dyke at 
Sunbury, making a fill of 29,000 cubic j r ards. 
In 1895 he removed to Harrisburg and in 
connection with H. H. Treon engaged in 
his present business. He was married in 
Upper Augusta township, February 18, 1886, 
to Hattie Rockafeller, daughter of Louis and 
Catherine K. Rockafeller, of that township. 
He is a member of Fort Augusta Lodge, No. 
143, K. of P., of Sunbury, and of Lance and 
Shield Lodge, No. 11, 0. of S. P. K. In po- 
litical views he is a Democrat. Mrs. Lyons 
attends the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Johnson, Max P., wholesale bottler, was 
born in Baltimore, Md., June 5, 1858. His 
earl)' life was spent in his native city, and 
after leaving school he was engaged as a 
salesman in a brewery for fifteen years, 
during which time he acquired a thorough 
knowledge of the business in all its branches. 
In 1889 he moved to Harrisburg and se- 
cured the agency for the famous Anheuser- 
Busch Brewing Association, of St. Louis, 
Mo., and also for D. G. Yuengling's re- 
nowned porter and ales. To the handling 
of these brands of goods he has devoted his 
entire attention the past seven years. His 
place of business is a large and imposing 
stone building situated opposite the Penn- 
sylvania railroad depot, which is used en- 
tirely for the purposes of his business. The 
trade of the Harrisburg Bottling Works is 
large and lucrative, and, apart from the large 
country trade done by Mr. Johnson, includes 
an extensive trade among the leading hotels, 
cafes and select families of the city and 
vicinity. The fame of the Anheuser-Busch 
beer is so well established that praise from 
us would seem superfluous, and yet judges 
of good beer are never done extolling its 
merits. The plant of Mr. Johnson is 
equipped throughout with special machinery 
for the bottling of liquids. Mr. Johnson 
personally is highly esteemed in business 
circles for his integrity and liberal business 
views and well merits the liberal patronage 
that is bestowed upon him. 



Bomgardner, George, was born at East 
Hanover, Lebanon county, July 9, 1859. 
He is a son of George and Margaret (Zarger) 
Bomgardner, natives of Lebanon county. 
The former still survives and resides at 
Grantville, Dauphin county ; the latter passed 
away in 1894. George was reared to man- 
hood and received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of East Hanover. After leaving 
school he learned the trade of shoemaker, at 
which he worked for ten years. In 1873 he 
removed to Harrisburg where he worked at 
his trade for some years and for four years 
was engaged in the retail shoe business and 
was subsequently engaged in the wholesale 
beer and bottling business. He was mar- 
ried, in 1871, at East Hanover, to Emma 
Wagner. She bore him one son, who was ac- 
cidentally killed by a Pennsylvania railroad 
train on the Market street crossing. In his 
second marriage, which occurred at Leba- 
non, he was united to Ella Biester, daughter 
of George Biester, of Harrisburg. They 
have no children. In politics Mr. Bom- 
gardner is a Republican. 

Graupner, Robert H., proprietor of the 
Harrisburg Brewery, was born at Crim- 
midscau, province of Saxony, Germany, July 
5, 1862. He is a son of August and Johanna 
(Herald) Graupner, both natives of the prov- 
ince of Saxony, both died in their native 
land. Robert H. was reared to manhood 
and educated in Germany, and there also he 
learned the trade of brewer. In September, 
1883, he left Germany and came to America. 
He located in Philadelphia, where he worked 
at his trade for nine years. He was the 
head man for the Smith establishment in 
Philadelphia for three years, and with Mr. 
Heffner's Lancaster brewery for one year. 
From the latter place he came to this city, 
in 1893, and has been engaged in the brew- 
ing business here since that date. The stars 
and stripes float to-day over an industry that 
has just been added to the great commercial 
interests of the city, which has for the man- 
ufacture of its products the most imposing- 
edifice in this section of the State. This fine 
building, which is the plant of the Harris- 
burg Consumer's Brewing and Bottling Com- 
pany, and located at Tenth and Market 
streets, has been made a necessity. It is the 
result of the indomitable push and fine ex- 
ecutive ability of Mr. Graupner, the presi- 
dent and general superintendent of the 
company. The entire plant was constructed 



610 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



under his personal supervision. He is in 
every way a remarkable man, as an author- 
ity in matters relating to brewing he stands 
at the top and is highly regarded in the 
community for his ability, enterprise and 
sterling integrity. It is safe to predict the 
greatest success for the company with such 
an industrious and reliable man at the head. 
Mr. Graupner was married in Philadelphia, 
June, 1884, to Mary Leishner, a native of 
Saxony. They have five children: Max, 
Albert, William, Emma, and Frederick. In 
political views he is a Democrat. The 
family attend the Lutheran church. 

Schooley, William G., senior member of 
the firm of Schooley & Moore, proprietors of 
the Keystone Bottling Works, and manufac- 
turers of aerated waters, was born in Pitts- 
ton, Luzerne county, Pa., October 17, 1864. 
He is a son of Joseph P. and Charlotte 
(Laird) Schooley, who were of Scotch-Irish 
ancestry. He was educated in the public 
schools of his native town. After leaving 
school he worked in the brickyard of his 
father and at agricultural pursuits with his 
uncle until 1870, when he engaged in the 
manufacture and bottling of aerated water. 
In 1885 he removed to Harrisburg and has 
continued the business here until this time. 

He was married in Harrisburg, October 
24, 1894, to Mattie R. Withrow, daughter of 
Samuel and Elizabeth Withrow, old and 
honored residents of Harrisburg. In'political 
views he is a Republican. He is a member 
of John Harris Council, Jr. 0. U. A. M., and 
of Cincinnatus Commandery, K. of M. Mr. 
Schooley is a live, progressive business man, 
fully abreast with the times. By his ener- 
getic business methods and fair treatment 
of patrons he has built up a large and rap- 
idly increasing trade. 



Koenig, Frederick L., was born in Har- 
risburg, January 23, 1867. He is a son of 
Jonathan and Frederica Katrina (Goetz) 
Koenig, both deceased. They were both 
born at Oberamt Mahlbrun, Koenigreich 
Wurtemberg, Germany. They came to this 
country and settled at Harrisburg, where 
they resided for the remainder of their lives. 
Jonathan Koenig was a carpenter. He was 
for twelve years agent for the Bergner & 
Engel Brewing Co. October 26, 1861, he en- 
listed in company K, Ninth Pennsylvania 
cavalry. After serving one year in this 
regiment he was discharged at Louisville, 



Ky., September 13, 1862. Mr. Koenig after- 
wards re-enlisted in company G, Two Hun- 
dred and First Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
served until June 20, 1865, when he was dis- 
charged atHarrisburg, Pa. He died in Har- 
risburg, July 25, 1882 ; his wife died in Har- 
risburg, July 7, 1891. They had four chil- 
dren, two of whom died in childhood. Their 
living children are Sarah Louisa, widow of 
the late John C. Wieseraan, and Freder- 
ick L. 

Frederick L. Koenig has spent his life in 
his native city. He received his education 
in the public schools, and upon its comple- 
tion was engaged for four years as clerk. 
For the past nine years he has been em- 
ployed in the wholesale trade as general 
agent for Bergner & Engel's celebrated lager 
beer. 

He was married in Harrisburg, April 28, 
1892, to Ida Selma, daughter of Ernest and 
Wilhelmina Katrina (Schmeidel) Hempel. 
They have one child, Esther Frederica. Mr. 
Koenig is an active member of Capital City 
Castle, No. 40, K. G. E.; Cincinnatus Com- 
mandeiy, No. 96, K. of M.; Harrisburg 
Commandery, No. 4, K. G. E.; Hope Fire 
Company, No. 2 ; Firemen's Beneficial So- 
ciety, and St. Michael's Church Benevolent 
Society. He is a Democrat. He attends St. 
Michael's German Lutheran church. 



Meyer, Robert L., bottler, was born in 
Harrisburg, April 2, 1872 ; son of Charles L. 
and Sybillia (Swunger) Meyer, the former a 
native of Wesphalia, Prussia, the latter of 
Lebanon count}', Pa. The father came to 
Harrisburg in his youth and was a contin- 
uous resident and in business in this city 
until his death, June 4, 1893. His family 
consisted of eight children : Catherine, wife 
of John Gorman ; Ella, wife of William Mc- 
Lean ; Grace, Robert, Ma} r , Emma, Bertha 
and Lucretia. Robert L. received his edu- 
cation in the city schools, after which he 
learned the trade of machinist and followed 
that occupation six years. Upon the death 
of his father in 1893 he succeeded to his 
business which he has conducted since that 
time. In political views Mr. Meyer is a 
Liberal. 



Cornman, Wilson S., manager of the Com- 
monwealth Hotel, was born at the hotel of 
his grandfather, Geoi'ge Sponsler, one mile 
east of Carlisle, on the Carlisle and Harris- 
burg pike, September 18, 1837; son of Jona- 






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REV. JOHN WINEBRENNER. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



613 



than and Jane (Sponsler) Cornman. When 
two years of age he removed with his par- 
ents to Centre county, Pa., where he received 
his education in the public schools. They 
located on a farm belonging to Dr. Wilson, 
one mile north of Potter's Fort, Centre 
county, where he lived until his mother died 
in 1852, and then lived with his father at 
Spring Mills, Centre county, a short time, 
after which he removed to Carlisle, where his 
father died in 1855. He served an appren- 
ticeship of three years at the printing busi- 
ness in the office of George Zinn, editor of 
the Carlisle American, and on November 1, 
1858, became clerk for James Raymond at 
the Cumberland and Perry Exchange Hotel, 
at Carlisle, where he remained until April 2, 
1862, when Mr. Raymond sold out and 
bought the White Hall Hotel at Harrisburg. 
Mr. Cornman then became clerk at the White 
Hall and continued for some time. He 
made three attempts at enlistment in the 
United States army and was as many times 
refused by the recruiting officers, because of 
being under the required size in height, He 
then went to Philadelphia and enlisted in 
the Keystone battery No. 2, of that city, and 
served his term of ninety days. 

After his discharge from the military ser- 
vice he resumed his position as clerk at the 
White Hall Hotel and served in that place 
until Mr. Raymond sold the hotel July 2, 
1866. Mr. Cornman then became the night 
clerk at the Lochiel on July 9, 1866, and 
served in that position until April, 1881, 
when he was promoted to chief clerk. He 
performed the duties of this place until Au- 
gust 1, 1891, when he resigned to accept the 
management of the Commonwealth Hotel, 
which position he has occupied since that date. 

Mr. Cornman is prominently identified 
with the fraternities, holding membership in 
Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, and Dauphin En- 
campment, No. 10, I. 0. O. F. ; Phoenix 
Lodge, No. 59, K. of P., and Central Lodge, 
No. 19, A. 0. U. W. In his political views 
he is a Republican. The family are mem- 
bers of the Market Square Presbyterian 
church. Mr. Cornman was married, No- 
vember 8, 1883, to Harriet Susanna Ray- 
mond, born at Elizabethtown, Lancaster 
county, Pa., January 12, 1845, daughter of 
James and Sarah Ann (Ross) Raymond. 



Heist, Thomas H, proprietor of the Bolton 
House, was born in Milford, Bucks county, 
Pa., April 16, 1840 ; son of Daniel S. and 
4i 



Mary (Himmelswright) Heist. The Heist 
family were German and the great-grand- 
father's people settled in Montgomery county 
at an early date. The grandfather Heist was 
born in Pennsylvania and the father was 
born in Bucks county. The maternal great- 
grandfather's people were English and came 
to America early, settling in Germantown, 
Pa., where they resided during the war of 
1812. The parents of the mother removed 
to Bucks county, where she was born. The 
father in early life had a grist and saw mill, 
but later engaged in the hotel business. The 
parents had four children, three of whom are 
living: Sarah, wife of David Huber, Evans- 
burg ; Allen H., residing in Doylestown, hotel 
keeper and distiller ; and Thomas H. The 
father died in 1864 and the mother died in 
1886. 

Thomas H. received his primary educa- 
tion in the public schools at Milford Square, 
and subsequently attended the Millersville 
Academy, of Lancaster county, and Oneida 
Institute at Cazenovia, N. Y. He then spent 
one year in Nevada looking after the inter- 
ests of the Quinterd Silver Mining Company, 
which was composed of capitalists of Bucks 
and Montgomery counties, after which he 
was engaged at South Fork, Pa., in coal and 
general merchandising business. In 1876 
he went to Johnstown, where he conducted 
the Merchant's Hotel for one year. In the 
spring of 1S77 he rented the Mountain 
House at Ebensburg, Pa., which he conducted 
for six years, and in 1882 built a hotel at 
Ebensburg, which he managed in connection 
with the Summer Hotel, and the next year 
opened the Maple Park Springs Hotel at the 
same place, conducting the three houses at 
the same time. During the summer of 1875 
he also had charge of the White House 
at Atlantic City. In the fall of 1883 Mr. 
Heist came to Harrisburg, since which time 
he has conducted the Bolton House, with 
the exception of two years. He was married, 
at South Bethlehem, Pa., by Rev. N. C. Sny- 
der, December, 1872, to Miss Sallie D. Harrar, 
daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Harrar, 
of Montgomery county. Their children are: 
Elizabeth H, a most accomplished and ami- 
able young lady, who died February 12, 1894, 
while attendingtheBradford Academy; Stuart 
H, Mary H., Ophelia H, Lee H., Lola H., and 
Norma H. Mr. Heist is a member of Lodge 
No. 45, F. & A. M, and Chapter No. 270, R. 
A. M., at Doylestown. Pa. Mr. Heist is a 
director of the Harrisburg Steam Heat and 



614 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Power Company ; of the Roaring Spring Min- 
ing Company, of Missouri ; of the South Fork 
Coal and Iron Company, and of the Blaisdele 
Paper and Pencil Company, of Philadelphia. 
He is also a charter member and a director 
of theliarrisburg Electric Company, and was 
a charter member and director of the People's 
Bridge Company. In his political views Mr. 
Heist is a Democrat. He and his family 
attend the Zion Lutheran church. 



Hershey, Henry E., proprietor of the 
Hershey House, Harrisburg, Pa., was born 
in Penn township, Lancaster county, Pa., 
November 14, 1846. He is a son of Christian 
and Anna (Eresman) Hershey. Christian 
Hershey was born at Sporting Hill, Lancas- 
ter township, and resided in that. county un- 
til 1861, when he removed to Dauphin 
county. Here he spent the remainder of 
his life, the latter part in West Hanover 
township, where he died. The mother was 
also born in Lancaster county, and is still 
living and in good health at the age of 
eighty-three; she resides at Sporting Hill. 
Five of their six children are living: Maria ; 
Melinda, widow of Augustus Alwine, of 
Kansas City, Mo. ; Elizabeth ; Frank, of 
Chicago, 111.; and Henry E. 

Henry E. Hershey spent his early life 
near Manheim, Lancaster county, where he 
received his first instruction in the public 
schools. At fourteen years of age he removed 
with his parents to Dauphin county, locat- 
ing in Derry township, six miles from Hum- 
melstown. Here he finished his education, 
attending school in winter and doing home 
and farm work in the spring and summer. 
He was engaged in farming until 1873, when 
he decided, to change his occupation, and 
began his career as landlord and hotel man- 
ager with the Park Hotel, at the fair grounds, 
which he conducted successfully for two 
years. He next took charge of the Stock- 
yard Hotel on the bank of the canal above 
the city limits, and managed it until 1881. 
His experience with these ventures was suf- 
ficient to develop his qualifications for the 
business, and to decide him to make it his 
life occupation. In 1S81 he took the Her- 
shey House, of which he has been proprietor 
and manager since that date. His house 
is widely and favorably known to the travel- 
ing public, and Mr. Hershey, after his career 
of twenty-three years, stands well in the hon- 
orable and popular class of hotel men. 

Henry E. Hershey was married, in Derry 



township to Miss Mary A., daughter of 
Christian and Anna Wissler, of Lancaster 
county, both deceased. They have had 
nine children : Anna, Christian W., Daniel 
W., Elizabeth, George S., Melinda, Frank, 
Mabel, who died in infancy, and Helen. 
Mr. Hershey has served efficiently for two 
terms in select council, and during his last 
term was chairman of that body. He is not 
an active member of any secret organization. 
In political views he is Democratic. The 
family attend Zion English Lutheran church. 



Landis, Robert F., proprietor of the Cen- 
tral Hotel, was born in Middletown, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 14, 1846 ; son of Ma- 
jor Jacob and Mary (Felty) Landis. The 
parents were both born in Dauphin county 
in 1818, and have been continuous residents 
of the county. The father first had a flour 
mill, subsequently engaged in farming and 
was for some years a school teacher. He 
represented his county in the State Legisla- 
ture several terms and for a number of years 
was a major in the State militia. The 
parents are both living and reside at Mid- 
dletown and are in the enjoyment of good 
health at the advanced age of seventy-eight 
years. They had four children: Elizabeth, 
wife of Samuel A. Stevens, prothonotary of 
Huntingdon county, Pa.; Robert F.; William 
F. J., residing in Toledo, Ohio; Mary A., 
wife of Mr. Fezell, residing at Grand Island, 
Neb. Samuel F. was reared and educated 
in his native town. In 1863 he came to 
Harrisburg and served an apprenticeship at 
the machinist trade with W. 0. Hickok & 
Son, after which he was employed by them 
a year and a half. He then engaged with 
Raymond & Campbell, of Middletown, as a 
general machinist and foundryman, and re- 
mained in their employ for twenty years. 
He was subsequently in the service of the 
American Tube and Iron Company for eight 
years, and on January 3, 1895, embarked 
in his present business. Mr. Landis was 
married in Middletown to Miss Ida Bren- 
naman, daughter of Dr. A. N. and Mary 
(Elliott) Brennaman, of Middletown, and to 
them there have been born three children : 
Mary 0., deceased, Robert B. and Abraham 
B. Mr. Landis is liberal in his political 
views, supporting men rather than party. 
Part of the family attend the Presbyterian 
church. Mrs. Landis is a member of the 
Lutheran church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



615 



Sua i fxi'r, Henry G, proprietor of the 
Windsor House, was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., February 13, 1847. He is the 
son of the late Gabriel and Margaret (Fet- 
ter) Shaffner. His grandparents were both 
natives of Pennsylvania and by occupation 
were farmers. They had six children, of 
whom the only surviving one is Catherine, 
wife of Jonas White, of Manheim, Pa. Ga- 
briel Shaffner, father of Henry C, was born 
ai Manlieim, Lancaster county. He learned 
cabinet making, and pursued that calling for 
many years. He was also a school teacher; 
was justice of the peace for eight years ; 
was appointed postmaster at Manheim, and 
died aged seventy-four. He was married 
to Miss Margaret, daughter of Jacob A. and 
Margaret Fetter. They had four children, 
three of whom are living : Henry C, John 
M. and Mary. Annie M. died, aged thirty- 
nine years. 

Henry C. Shaffner attended the public 
schools of Lancaster county a part of each 
year until lie was eighteen years old, when 
he went to Mount Joy, Pa., and entered upon 
a four years' apprenticeship at cabinet mak- 
ing. After learning his trade he came to 
llarrishurg, and for twelve years was in the 
employ of W. 0. Hickok, a sketch of whom 
appears in this volume. Mr. Shaffner and 
his father formed a partnership, and opened 
a grocery store at the corner of Capitol and 
Cumberland streets, Harrisburg, where they 
carried on business for thirteen years, after 
which they bought the residence at the cor- 
ner of Herr and Capitol streets. There they 
continued the grocery business for two 
years longer and then dissolved partnership. 
Mr. H. C. Shaffner then removed to Boas 
and Cowden streets and conducted business 
for himself two years; he then sold out and 
removed to his former place of business, 
Herr and Capitol streets, where he estab- 
lished a bleachery, which he managed for 
nine years. 

In January, 1896, he removed to No. 418 
Market street and opened the Windsor 
House as a temperance hotel. This house 
has a wide reputation as a place of comfort- 
able and quiet entertainment, The gentle- 
manly and hospitable manner of Mr. Shaff- 
ner makes him an agreeable host and his 
excellent house has a large patronage. 

Mr. Shalfner was married to Miss Sadie J., 
daughter of Daniel and Lucinda Weiiriek. 
They have two sons, Charles E. and Edward. 
He has been an active member of Harris- 



burg Council, No. 106, 0. U. A. M., for 
ten years. He also belongs to Silver Star 
Council. No. 130. Mr. Shalfner is a Repub- 
lican. He is a member of the United Breth- 
ren church. 

Mrs. Shaffner was born January 15, 1854. 
Her parents were both natives of Dauphin 
county. Her father was a carpenter. He 
married Miss Lucinda, daughter of Amos 
and Lucinda Mader. Of their eleven chil- 
dren, nine are living: Kate, wife of Wesley 
Eichelberger ; Daniel; Lucinda, wife of A. 
H. Rhoads ; Samuel A.; Sadie, Mrs. Shaffner ; 
Susan, wife of T. J. Bell : Joseph ; Anne, wife 
of Reuben Henry: Ida. wife of Henry 
Fisher. Their other children are: Amos, 
drowned in Maryland during the war: John, 
shot at the battle of Gettysburg. Mr. Wen- 
rick died April 1, 1S7(>, aged sixty-four : his 
wife died May 3, 1891, aged seventy-two 
years. The family were members of the 
United Brethren church. 

The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Shaff- 
ner were both natives of Dauphin county. 
Her grandfather, Joseph Wenrick, was a 
farmer and had a family of five children, 
two of whom are living, Joseph and Cathe- 
rine Sherplin, wife of Eli Sherplin, who died 
a prisoner of war in Libby prison. Those 
deceased are: Mary, wife of the late 
Peter Bickel : Daniel and Eunice. Mrs. 
Shaffner's grandfather died in West Han- 
over township. Dauphin county, aged eighty- 
four, and her grandmother died at the 
same place at the age of seventy-three years. 



Bach, Harry A., was born in Ephrata, 
Lancaster county. Pa., April 25, 1S53. He 
is a son of the late Tillman and Sarah 
(Horting) Bach. His grandfather, George 
Horting, was a native of • Lancaster county. 
His early business for some years was that 
of stock dealing. Later he engaged in the 
hotel business and was for years proprietor 
of the Franklin House.- Lancaster. After 
many years devoted to this business he re- 
tired and spent the rest of his life free from 
it< burdens. He died at the age of seventy- 
six. He was a Republican and a member 
of the Reformed church, of Lancaster. His 
wife. M. Horting Albright, was born in Lan- 
caster county, in 1S0O. She was also a 
member of the German Reformed church. 
She died May 7. 1887, aged eighty-seven, 
and was buried at Ephrata, Lancaster county. 
His son, Tillman Bach, was horn in Lehisrh 



616 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



county, Pa. He was a stone-mason and 
a contractor, which occupation he followed 
until 1862. In this year he enlisted in 
company B, First Pennsylvania artillery, 
and was with the army for six months. He 
was then honorably discharged on account 
of disability, caused by rupture. This in- 
jury, received while he was in the army, 
finally resulted in his death. After thirty 
years of weakness and suffering a surgical 
operation was resorted to in the hope of pro- 
longing his life, but he was unable to sus- 
tain the shock and died in March, 1895, at 
the age of seventy-six. His politics were 
Republican. He was a member of the Re- 
formed church, in Lancaster. His wife, 
Sarah, daughter of George and Magdalena 
Horting, born in Lancaster county, March 
27, 1824, still lives in Lancaster, in the en- 
joyment of comfortable health, at the age of 
seventy-two years. Four of their fourteen 
children are living: Caroline, wife of John 
Wolf; Harry A., Tillman H, and Martha, 
wife of Adam Wise. The children deceased 
were Fannie, wife of John Stanter; George 
W. and John ; the rest died in infancy. 

Harry A. Bach attended the public schools 
of Lancaster until he was fifteen years old. 
He then spent six months in an excellent 
private school in the same city. When 
nearly sixteen he entered the employment 
of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as 
brakeman on the Philadelphia division. By 
a faithful and efficient discharge of his 
duties he won the confidence of his em- 
ployers and was subsequently made a con- 
ductor, and was in their employ for twelve 
consecutive years. He removed from Lan- 
caster to Philadelphia, from thence to Mid- 
dletown and from thence to Harrisburg, and 
in December, 1880, took charge of the hotel 
on the corner of Broad and Capitol streets, 
Harrisburg. Since that date he has carried 
on that business with enviable success and 
attained a leading place among hotel men. 

Mr. Bach was married November 22, 1S74, 
to Miss Minnie C, daughter of George and 
Frederica (Koch) Werner. George Werner 
was born in Germany, in October, 1826, was 
educated in the schools of his native land, 
and there confirmed in the Lutheran church. 
He was a locksmith and followed this busi- 
ness throughout his life. He came to Amer- 
ica after he had reached manhood, but be- 
fore his marriage, and settled in Baltimore, 
Md. He died in Lancaster, Pa., December 
11, 1887, aged sixty-one. He was an Inde- 



pendent Democrat. He was married in Bal- 
timore to Miss Frederica Koch, born in 
German}^, August 21, 1833. She came to 
America when a young woman and settled 
in Baltimore. She still lives in the city of 
Lancaster in firm health at the age of sixty- 
two years. They had seven children, three of 
whom are living: Minnie C, wifeof Harry A. 
Bach ; Clara, wifeof Charles Wolf, and Nellie, 
F., wife of Charles Cretchman. The children 
deceased are Annie, wife of Charles Dunker; 
and Edward, an infant. Mr. and Mrs. Harry 
A. Bach have four children : Newton V., Ger- 
trude M., wife of William Holtzman, George 
W. and Mabel. Mr. Bach is a good solid 
Republican in his political views. 



Aldinger, William C, proprietor of the 
Park. Hotel, Harrisburg, Pa., was born in 
Dauphin county, December 25, 1857. He 
was a son of John and Regina (Stoll) Al- 
dinger, natives of Germany, who came to 
this country in early youth. Mr. John Al- 
dinger has been all his life engaged in the 
business of blacksmithing, except for a few 
years during which ill health compelled him 
to relinquish active employment. He is still 
in business in Linglestown, Dauphin county, 
where he has resided for forty-five years. 
Two of his brothers, Philip and Andrew Al- 
dinger, reside in Harrisburg; the latter has 
retired from business. His wife, who was 
Miss Regina Stoll, has a brother who is a 
prominent citizen of Ligonier, Ind. He has 
been nominated for a State senatorship, and 
is editor and proprietor of a newspaper in 
Ligonier. The children of Mr. and Mrs. 
Aldinger are : John, William C, Carrie, 
wife of David Hummel, Frederick, and Kate, 
wife of John Reimert. 

William C. Aldinger attended the public 
schools of Linglestown and Harrisburg until 
he was fourteen. At the age of seventeen, 
he was employed bj r Mr. Breitinger and 
clerked in that gentleman's restaurant for 
seven years. In 1883 he embarked in the 
hotel business on his own account on Straw- 
berry avenue, where he remained until 1888; 
he then removed to No. 309 Market street 
and continued there for over three years. 
He then conducted the business again for 
four years on Strawberry avenue ; from that 
place he removed to his present location, the 
Park Hotel, No. 307 Walnut street, of which 
he took possession in 1895. Mr. Aldinger's 
experience of more than a score of years is 
assurance that he is thoroughly acquainted 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



617 



with the needs of his guests, and knows how 
to meet their wants and provide for their 
comfort. He adheres to the Democratic 
party. Mr. Aldinger was married, January 
18, 1881, to Miss Christiana, daughter of 
Frederick and Christiana Harm. They have 
one daughter, Evelyn, born April 12, 1890. 
Mrs. Aldinger's parents, Frederick and 
Christiana Hah d, were horn in Germany, 
and came to this country before their mar- 
riage. Mr. Halm was for a few years en- 
gaged in the Bailey Iron Works, and for 
many years was foreman of the Halyx Ice 
Company. Their children are: Carrie: 
Christiana, Mrs. Aldinger; Mary, Maggie, 
and Lizzie, Mrs. Harry Smith. Mr. Halm 
died at the age of sixty-five. Mrs. Hahn 
resides on Allison's Hill, Harrisburg. 



Hunter, Forrest, proprietor of the Lo- 
chiel Hotel, Harrisburg, was born at Harris- 
burg, May 28, 1SG9. His grandfather Hunter 
was a civil engineer in the British army. 
He came to Canada in 1829, and spent the 
remainder of his life at Lakefield, in the 
province of Ontario, Canada. George Will- 
iam Hunter, his son and the father of Forrest 
Hunter, was born at Ballyglass, county of 
Mayo, Ireland, March 29,1828. His parents 
were English. He came to Canada with 
them when he was one year old. They lo- 
cated at Lakefield, province of Ontario, Can- 
ada, and here be resided until he was seven- 
teen years of age, when be removed to the 
Tinted States, locating in different parts of 
the country until 18bT, when be came to 
Harrisburg. This same year he became a 
clerk in the Bolton House. Subsequently 
he became manager of the Lochiel Hotel, 
and in 1868 assumed the proprietorship of 
this popular house which was conducted 
under his able management until the time 
of his death. He died March 3, 1891. He 
will long be remembered for Ids successful 
business management and bis courtesy and 
kindness. His wife was Mary Bowman. 
She was a native of Lebanon, Pa. She is 
still living and resides in Harrisburg. The}' 
had two children, Forrest and Mary, wife 
of W. K. Meyers, a leading attorney-at-law, of 
Harrisburg. 

Forrest Hunter was educated in private 
schools and at Seder's Academy of Harris- 
burg. Since the completion of his education, 
lie has been continuously engaged in the 
hotel business. Previous to his father's 
death he was clerk and assistant manager. 



After the death of his father, in March, 
1891, he assumed entire control of the busi- 
ness. 

In the successful management of a popu- 
lar hotel, the very highest business qualifi- 
cations are demanded. At the same time 
the best personal and social qualities are 
brought into play. Of all these characteris- 
tics of the successful and popular landlord, 
Mr. Hunter is abundantly possessed. By 
inheritance, by training and by natural 
taste he is richly endowed for his enterprise. 
The result is that the Lochiel House lias a 
wide and favorable reputation for enjoyable 
entertainment. 



Aldinger, Frederick B., Harrisburg, Pa., 
was born at Linglestown, Dauphin county. 
Pa., June 10, 1874, and is a son of John and 
Regina (Stoll) Aldinger. Mr. Aldinger was 
educated in the public schools of Lingles- 
town. At the earl}- age of thirteen he be- 
came clerk in the general store of C. B. Care 
& Son. Three years later be went to Har- 
risburg, to act as clerk in the hotel of bis 
brother, W. C. Aldinger. When be was sev- 
enteen years of age, he began a two years' 
apprenticeship at printing with the Harris- 
burg Publishing Company, afterwards prac- 
ticing and improving himself in the art in 
the State printing office, under the manage- 
ment of C. M. Busch. At the age of twenty- 
one Mr. Aldinger went into the hotel busi- 
ness at No. 231 Strawberry avenue, in which 
location he still continues the business. 



Russ, Narcissus, proprietor of the Colum- 
bus Hotel, is a native of the southern part 
of Italy, having been born near Lucca. He 
came with his parents to America when a 
lad of about seven years. The family first 
located at Pottsville, Pa., subsequently re- 
moving to Philadelphia and finally to Har- 
risburg. Mr. Russ first engaged in the hotel 
business in Harrisburg, and also, in connec- 
tion with his father, conducted a fruit and 
fish stand for some time. As agent, he intro- 
duced the Louis Bergdoll beer in the Capital 
city of Pennsylvania. Several years ago he 
purchased from John Gross the "Gross 
House,'' which he changed on "Columbus 
Day " to the Hotel Columbus, and has since 
given bis attention to that popular hotel, in 
which be has had eminent SUCCI SS 

Mr. Russ has been twice married. P>y his 
first wife, who is dead, he has two children : 
Adolph and Ella. By his second wife, whose 



618 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



maiden name is Lizzie Shanoffen, he has one 
living son, Maurice. Mr. Russ has five 
brothers living in Harrisburg : William, who 
is engaged in the fruit and fish business on 
Market Square; Patrick, proprietor of the 
Hotel Russ; James, of the Commonwealth 
Hotel ; John, agent for Rupperts' N. Y. beer, 
and Lewis, formerly of the Grand Hotel. 

Lauer, Jacob F., was born in Chester 
count}', Pa., June 28, 1819. He is a son of 
the late George P. and Mary (Fisler) Lauer. 
George P. Lauer was born in Philadelphia, 
and died at the age of sixty-five years. He 
was married to Miss Mary Fisler. They had 
five children, two of whom are living: Jacob 
F., and George, residing at Coatesville, Pa. 
Their deceased children were : Hannah, wife 
of Joseph Valentine; Anna, wife of Dr. Mc- 
Holland; Parker, died, aged fifteen. Mr. 
Lauer was a Republican. 

Jacob F. Lauer was educated in the com- 
mon schools. At the age of seventeen he 
went to Lancaster to learn the trade of ma- 
chinist, but followed that occupation for only 
about six months. He then worked at 
boiler iron making in a rolling-mill at 
Coatesville for one year. After this he was 
employed by Joseph Bailey at the works 
below Reading, known as Pine Iron Works, 
in which he was foreman for ten years. In 
1880 he removed to Harrisburg and was 
foreman for the Bailey Brothers for nearly 
eight years. In 1887 he went to Michigan, 
near Battle Creek, and for two years engaged 
in farming. Returning to Harrisburg, he 
was out of business for three months and 
then removed to Jersey City, N. J., where he 
was for about three years foreman in the 
Boiler and Plate Works. Again returning 
to Harrisburg, and to the employment of 
Bailey Brothers, he was their foreman for 
about four years. In the spring of 1894 he 
went into the livery business on Blackberry 
avenue and Fourth street, in Harrisburg, and 
has been continuously in that business up 
to the present time. He had also a livery 
stable on the corner of Third and Cumber- 
land streets for a number of years. His es- 
tablishment is at present on the corner of 
Green and Cumberland streets, Harrisburg. 
In his political opinions he is a good, solid 
Republican. He cast his first vote for presi- 
dent for General Harrison, fifty-six years 
ago. He was married, in Philadelphia, to 
Miss Catherine, daughter of George and 
Mar}' Ailer. They have had thirteen chil- 



dren, four of whom are living: Anna, wife 
of John Griffith; Hannah, William M., and 
Emma, wife of Edward F. Baum. Their 
deceased children were: George, died in Jer- 
sey City ; Parker, killed on the railroad ; 
Elizabeth, Mary, and some others who died 
in infancy. 

The parents of Mrs. Jacob F. Lauer were 
both natives of Lancaster. Her father- 
George Ailer, was for many years a shoe- 
maker. He and his wife both died in Lan- 
caster. They had six children, only one of 
whom, Henry, survives. Catherine, who be- 
came Mrs. Lauer, was born in Lancaster, in 
1821, and died May 31, 1895. She was a 
faithful member of the Ridge Avenue 
Methodist Episcopal church. 

William M., only son of Mr. J. F. Lauer, 
was born in Harrisburg, February 23, 1856. 
He was educated in the public schools and 
in Seller's Academy. After leaving school 
he engaged with his father in the livery busi- 
ness, in which he has ever since continued. 
He is known and esteemed everywhere as a 
man of integrity. He was married, in Har- 
risburg, in October, 1876, to Miss Anna L., 
daughter of William and Margaret Kitzle- 
man. They have had six children, two of 
whom are living: Nellie G. and Bessie E. 
Their deceased children were: George P., 
Edith, Florence, and one who died in in- 
fancv. 



Wallis, Robert, liveryman, was born in 
Perry county, Pa., October 5, 1834. He is a 
son of William and Sarah (Jones) Wallis. 

Robert Wallis, grandfather of the present 
Robert Wallis, was born in Scotland. He 
was a shoemaker, and pursued that vocation 
throughout his life. He died in Juniata 
county, Pa., aged ninety-six. He married 
Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Hugh McDonald. 
They had six children : James, William, 
John, Samuel, Erwin D., and Sarah, wife of 
Andrew McKnight. His wife died in Juni- 
ata county, at the age of ninety-four. Both 
paternal grandparents were of Scotch descent. 

Mr. Wallis' maternal grandparents, Na- 
than and Rebecca (Gilfillan) Jones, were of 
Welsh extraction, and came to this country 
at an early day. The grandfather was a 
millwright. They had five children : Edwin ; 
Sarah; Rebecca, wife of Samuel Jordan; Gib- 
son and Nathan. Mr. and Mrs. Jones spent 
their lives by the Juniata river, and died 
where they had lived. They were members of 
the Lutheran church. 



DAT I'lllX COUNTY. 



619 



William Wallis, father of Robert Wallis, 
was Lorn in Juniata county, Pa., in 1801. 
He learned coopering, and worked at that 
trade for about twelve years. His wife, Sarah 
Jones, was also a native of Juniata county. 
They had thirteen children, four of whom 
are living: twins, William and Sarah, wife 
of Jacob Hoi man; Robert and John. Their 
deceased children are: Margaret, died in 
L846, wife of J. 0. Werich ; Jackson, died in 
, August, 1S50, aged twenty-six ; Foster, died 
in September, 1 .Sol, aged twenty-six; Eliza- 
beth, died in November, 1895, aged sixty- 
six ; Rebecca, died in 1839, aged eight years ; 
and four children who died in infancy. Mr. 
William Wallis removed to Liverpool, Pa., 
in 1828, aud engaged in mercantile business; 
he was also a shipper of grain and produce 
to Baltimore and Philadelphia, by his own 
boats. He died January 11, 1855, aged 
fifty-five, and was buried at Liverpool. He 
was a Democrat. He and his wife were 
members of the Lutheran church. She died 
in 1881, at the age of eighty. 

Robert Wallis attended the schools of his 
native county, and received a part of his ed- 
ucation at Liverpool. He worked on the 
farm until he was eighteen, after which he 
was engaged with his father, who kept a 
hotel and a general store. His father died 
when Robert was twenty-one years of age, 
and his mother continued the business until 
L865, putting it into Robert's charge. In 
1865 he bought the homestead, hotel and 
store, and carried on business for himself. 
He continued in this business at Liverpool 
until 1876, when he removed to Philadel- 
phia, and leased the Allen House, No. 1220 
Market street, which he managed for two 
years. He then returned to his old property 
at Liverpool, and kept the hotel there until 
lss'.i. when he sold out and removed to Har- 
risburg. He bought a lot on the corner of 
Haehnlen and Prune avenues, erected com- 
modious buildings, and established himself 
in the livery business. 

There are numerous livery stables in ll.ir- 
risburg, but none more worthy of popularity 
and patronage than that of Mr. Wallis. His 
establishment is equipped with all modern 
adjuncts and appliances for convenience and 
comfort. The demands of all classes of 
patrons are especially provided for. Vehicles 
nre strong, modern and stylish ; careful and 
skillful drivers are employed: and horses, 
handsome, well trained and entirely safe and 
reliable, are furnished. He has equipages 



for private hire, carriages for parties and 
balls, buggies for pleasure driving, and well- 
trained and easy-going riding horses; and 
all or any at reasonable rates. By his ex- 
cellent furnishing, his reliable business 
methods and his agreeable manner of treat- 
ing patrons, Mr. Wallis lias won the confi- 
dence of the public, and especially of the 
business men of the city. He enjoys a large 
patronage. 

He was married, May 24, 1866, to Miss 
Margaretta, daughter of Ezra and Susanna 
(Alexander - ) McLinn, born March 26, 1845. 
They have had five children, four of whom 
are living: Jean May, Frank J., Ralph M. 
ami Robert Earl. Edward S. died January 
9, 1894, aged seven years. 

Mr. Wallis has filled various offices. In 
Perry county, he was solicited to accept the 
office of sheriff, but declined, having no desire 
for public office and honors. He is an active 
member of City Lodge No. 301, I. 0. O. F., 
to which he has belonged for thirty-five years. 
He was formerly a member of the Knights 
of Pythias, and of the Patriotic Order Sons 
of America. Mr. Wallis is a good, solid 
Democrat. The family are members of the 
Lutheran church. 

Ezra McLinn, father of Mrs. Wallis. was 
born in Juniata county, Pa., February 11. 
1811. He was a farmer. He was married 
in January, 1836, to Miss Susanna, daughter 
of Benjamin and Rebecca Alexander, born 
in the State of Delaware, May 16, 1818 
They had eleven children, seven of whom 
are living : Margaretta. wife of Robert Wal- 
lis; Milton E.; George G.; Annie M., wife of 
Uriah Shoeman ;, Alton B.; William B.; and 
Luella E., wife of C. Ed. Kennedy. Their 
deceased children are: Theo. T.. died in 
1837, aged three months; Rebecca Mary, 
died in July, 1840, aged three years ; Louisa 
Ellen, died in July, 1840, aged one year: 
Samuel A., died in April. 1843, aged thi 
years. Mr. McLinn filled various offices in 
Juniata county, such as county commis- 
sioner, assessorand school director. His po- 
litical opinions are Democratic He is a 
member of the United Presbyterian church. 
He died March 23, 1S7S. aged sixty-seven 
years. His wife is still living and resides 
with Mr. and Mrs. Wallis. She is seventy- 
eight years of age. and in comfortable health. 

Thomas McLinn, the paternal grandfather 
of Mrs. Wallis. was born in Juniata county. 
He was a farmer. He married Miss Mary 
Gilfillan, also a native of Juniata county 



620 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



daughter of James Gilfillan. They had 
eleven children, all deceased: Annie, wife 
of William Cox; Mary, wife of Thomas 
McLinn ; Sallie, wife of Mr. Vance ; Mar- 
garet, wife of Robert Jones ; Hannah, wife 
of Robert Patton ; Dorcas; Mamie Kipp, and 
two sisters who married a Mr. Quigly ; the first, 
Elizabeth, who died, and then her sister Re- 
becca married the same man. They were 
members of the United Presbyterian church. 

The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Wal- 
lis were natives of Delaware. Her grand- 
father, Benjamin Alexander, was a farmer. 
He served in the Revolutionary war, and 
participated in the battles of Brandywine 
and Choch Bridge. He married Miss Re- 
becca, daughter of William and Elizabeth 
Woodland, born at Elkton, Md., in 1778. 
They had four children: William, John, 
Rebecca, wife of Benjamin Alexander, and 
Sarah, wife of George Reynolds. Benjamin 
Alexander lived to the age of seventy-five 
years ; the grandmother, who died Septem- 
ber 15, 1853, to that of seventy-five. The 
mother of Mrs. Wallis has in her possession 
a mirror to which the grandmother fell heir, 
and which was brought over from Scotland. 
It is nearly two hundred years old. 

Joseph and Robert Wallis, great-uncles of 
Robert Wallis, were early pioneers, and em- 
igrated to this country at an early day. 
Landing at Philadelphia, they traveled north- 
ward together, seeking a place to locate. At 
the mouth of the Juniata river they disagreed 
as to the direction of their farther journey, 
and separated. Robert continued his jour- 
ney up the Juniata river, and found land to 
his liking at Mexico, now Juniata, Pa., where 
he settled, and engaged in farming and 
shoemaking, and where he died. Joseph 
pursued his way up the Susquehanna, and 
took up land at Northumberland, where he 
was a farmer, and where he died. 



cepting one year spent in farming on his own 
account. 

He came to Harrisburg, in 1871, and 
opened a green grocery in connection with 
Mr. Longsdorf, under the firm name of Longs- 
dorf & Neely. After a year Mr. Longsdorf 
withdrew and Mr. Neely carried on the busi- 
ness for a few months longer. Finally it 
was closed out, and Mr. Neely was a clerk in 
the grocery of John Kerper for one year. 
Resigning this position, he became a trans- 
fer driver, for Mr. Black, between Harrisburg 
and Steelton, for one year. In May, 1874, 
he was appointed superintendent of the 
Harrisburg Street Railway Company, which 
position, after serving eight years, he resigned 
to go into business for himself. In 1882 he 
established a local express and livery busi- 
ness which he still conducts. His residence 
is at No. 12 North Fifth street, and his place 
of business, No. 437 Strawberry avenue, 
where he has one of the most finely fur- 
nished livery establishments in Harrisburg. 

Mr. Neely has been a member of Dauphin 
Lodge, No. 160, for twenty years. He is a 
member of Post 58, G. A. R. His political 
views are good, straight Republican. 



Neely, J. M., was born in Hunterstown, 
Adams county, Pa., March 14, 1846. He is 
a son of the late Samuel and Catherine 
(Elliott) Neely. Mr. Neely took only a 
partial course in the public schools of Adams 
county. He worked with his father on the 
farm until he was eighteen. In 1863 he en- 
listed for three years in the army, in com- 
pany F, Fifteenth Pennsylvania caval y. 
He served his full time and was discharg d 
in June, 1865; he then returned home and 
worked on his father's farm for six years, ex- 



Reed, Samuel B., Harrisburg, was born 
in Dillsburg, York county, Pa., June 10, 
1851 ; son of George W. and Nancy (Jones) 
Reed. The parents were both natives of 
York county. The father was a cooper by 
trade and later in life became a farmer. For 
thirty-five years he carried the mail from 
Dillsburg to Franklintown,and from Brants- 
ville to East Burlington, Adams county. He 
married Nancy Jones, by whom he had seven 
children, five of whom are living: Mary A., 
Sarah J., George W., Maria E. and Samuel 
B. In politics Mr. Reed was a Democrat, 
and served as tax collector of Dillsburg for 
several years. He died, at the age of eighty- 
four years, at Dillsburg, where his wife died. 
In faith, he was a Quaker, and his wife was 
a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. 
Samuel B. attended the public school in Dills- 
burg until he was fourteen years old, and 
then learned the tailor trade, at which he 
worked for three years. At the age of nine- 
teen years he went to Pittsburgh where he 
found employment with a jewelery and prize 
package companj' for thirteen months, after 
which he returned to Dillsburg and was 
elected and served as borough supervisor 
one year. He then established a livery 
business which he conducted ten years, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



621 



sold to William Ilarbolt, after which be 
opened a green grocer)' at Williamstown and 
conducted it three months. His next em- 
ployment was on the street cars, at Harris- 
burg, when lie was later made superintend- 
ent and held this position for eight years. 
His next business venture was a livery es- 
tablishment, which he is managing at the 
present time. He was married, April 4, 1883, 
in Lebanon county, to Miss Agnes Golden, 
daughter of David and Harriet Golden. 
Their children are: Rudolph C, Maria G., 
Bessie A., and George Russel, died March 4, 
L894, aged nineteen months. In politics 
Mr. Heed is a Democrat. The father of Mrs. 
Reed was a native of Adams county, where 
he was engaged as a dealer in grain and 
coal. He was appointed postmaster under 
Lincoln's administration and occupied that 
office many years. He had six children. 
His wife is a native of Adams county and 
survives him, residing at Harrisburg, and is 
eighty years of age. 



Duncan, William, son of William and 
grandson of John Duncan, of Derry town- 
ship, was born October 16, 1806; died March 
31, 1S.S4. From early manhood he was en- 
gaged in the tobacco business, the last 
twenty-five years of his life at the corner of 
Third and Walnut streets, Harrisburg, where 
his son and grandson have successively suc- 
ceeded him. 1 le was one of the organizers 
of the first lodge, No. 68, I. 0. 0. F., es- 
tablished in Harrisburg, and was the first 
district deputy grand master in Dauphin 
county. Early in life he connected himself 
with Zion Lutheran church and for many 
years was an elder in the church, and a 
superintendent of the Third (or Bible Class) 
department of the Sunday-school, which 
from a class of less than a dozen attendants 
increased under his zealous efforts to a mem- 
bership of hundreds, compelling the sessions 
to lie held in the nave of the church and 
making a reputation for the school that at- 
tracted the attention of Sunday-school lead- 
ers throughout the country. One of the hells 
of "Old Zion's " chime, so well known to all 
Harrisburgers, bears the impress of William 
1 Mmcan's name, as a tribute to his ( 'hristian 
work, and a memorial window in Bethle- 
hem Lutheran church is a like testimonial 
from the Sunday-school over which he pre- 
sided fur SO many years. 

Aniniie,- the Scutch who. during the reign 
of James I. of England (1603-1625), emigra- 



ted to the north of Ireland and availed of 
the patents granted by the Government in 
the distribution of the confiscated lands of 
the Earls of Tyrone and Tryconnels, were 
ancestors of William Duncan. This colony 
of Scotch emigrants made history for the 
Protestant religion during the insurrection 
of 1641-1649, and the province of Ulster, after 
the loss of thousands of lives and untold 
suffering on the part of the Scotch settlers, 
became the bulwark and synonym of Presby- 
terianism for the whole world. In the lapse . 
of time many of the descendents of this he- 
roic race, by reason of increased taxation and 
obnoxious governmental exactions, set their 
backs on the scenes of their forefathers' trib- 
ulations and successes and emigrated to the 
province of Pennsylvania, commencing 
about 1720 and continuing until 1750, bring- 
ing with them to the regions of the Susque- 
hanna the same Calvinistic principles that 
animated their ancestors in the battles 
of the Irish insurrection and in their noble 
defense at the siege of Londonderry, the im- 
press of which can be clearly seen in the 
characteristics of the population of Dauphin 
county to this day. Mr. Duncan's great- 
grandparents were among the earliest of 
these Scotch-Irish emigrants from Ulster. 
His grandfather, John Duncan, was a sol- 
dier in the Revolutionary war, and his 
father, William Duncan, was a deputy super- 
intendent of military stores during the wai 
of 1812-1814. His mother was horn, Nancy 
Young, and at marriage to his father was 
the widow of Lawrence Bennage. 

William Duncan married Elmina Stehley, 
daughter of George Stehley, of Harrisburg, 
May 7, 1835. Mrs. Duncan's maternal grand- 
mother was a daughter of Peter and Eliza- 
beth (Dietz) Pancake; she was horn in Ger- 
many, June 24, 17 13, came, when a child, to 
this country and lived with her brother, 
Peter Pancake, an early settler of Paxtang. 
In 1762 she married Sebastian Crevous and 
with her husband moved to Fort Augusta. 
Mr. Crevous was among the first Pennsyl- 
vanians to volunteer for service in the Con- 
tinental army, having entered the First bat- 
talion of the rifle regiment, April 9, 177<i. 
was wounded and taken prisoner ai the bat- 
tle of Long Island. August 27. 177i>. and 
died, soon after, in the bands of the enemy. 
Mrs. Crevous continued to reside in Augusta 
township. Northumberland county, after her 
husband's enlistment and death, until July. 
1 778, when, warned of the impending Indian 



622 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



outbreak instigated by the British army at 
Wyoming, she abandoned in haste her home 
and all her personal belongings and with 
her three children took flight in a bateau 
down the Susquehanna river, guiding and 
working the boat herself to Harris' Ferry, 
where with many other refugees she was 
given shelter by John Harris. A few days 
later she took her family to an uncle's, at 
New Holland. After a few years she returned 
to Harris' Ferry, married Richard King and 
had by this marriage one child, Sarah King, 
who married George Stehley, and was mother 
of Mrs. Duncan. William and Elmina 
(Stehley) Duncan had these children: Ja- 
cob Mifflin; Dauphin Luther; William 
Sneeder ; Charlotte Louisa, Mrs. E. T. Jaques, 
of Woodbury, N. J. ; Elizabeth Ashmead, 
Mrs. Charles Westerman, of Philadelphia, 
and Sarah King. 



Duncan, Dauphin L., son of William and 
Elmina (Stehley) Duncan, was born in Har- 
risburg, January 7, 1842; was educated at 
the Harrisburg Academy ; married Eliza- 
beth Frances Haney ; succeeded his father, 
William Duncan, in the tobacco business; 
was also custodian of the United States 
Court and Postofnce building for four years 
and, with the exception of a year, as clerk in 
the quartermaster's department, at Memphis, 
Teun., during the Civil war, spent his whole 
life in Harrisburg, where he died, March 23, 
1894, leaving four children : Charlotte L., 
William D., Elmina S., and Elizabeth F. 
William D., only son of Dauphin L., was 
educated at the public schools and Business 
College at Harrisburg, and spent one year 
on the Nautical Schoolship "Saratoga," dur- 
ing part of which time he made a cruise to 
England, Portugal and Gibraltar. After the 
death of his father he assumed the tobacco 
business, which has been conducted succes- 
sively by his grandfather, father and now by 
himself, for over forty years, at the corner of 
Third and Walnut streets, Harrisburg. He 
married Elizabeth, daughter of Rev. J. X. 
Quigley, and has an infant daughter. In 
politics he is a staunch Democrat ; is a 
member of B. P. 0. Elks, and is recognized 
as a prominent young business man. 



Kepple, Sr., was for many years engaged in 
the manufacture of cigars in Lancaster city. 
He was born September 10, 1763, and died 
in November, 1826. His wife was born Feb- 
ruary 15,1781, and died in October, 1856; 
both died in the city of Lancaster. John was 
their only child. By a former marriage of 
the father there were two children, both of 
whom are deceased. 

John Kepple's early life was passed in 
Lancaster. He was educated in the common 
schools of that city. At the age of sixteen 
he was indentured to the tailoring trade for 
four and a half years. After serving two 
and a half years of his apprenticeship, he 
was compelled to abandon the business on 
account of failing sight. He then engaged 
with his brother in making cigars, and has 
continued for more than sixty years in that 
business. In August, 1841, he removed to 
Harrisburg, and has been a continuous resi- 
dent, and in business for himself, for fifty- 
five years. 

Mr. Kepple was married in Lancaster, 
Pa., October 28, 1841, to Mary L. Fitzgerald, 
daughter of David and Catherine Fitzgerald, 
natives of Lancaster city. They are referred 
to elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. 
Kepple had four children, three of whom 
died in childhood, the only survivor being 
Edwin C, engaged in his father's business 
as manager. Mr. Kepple has been an active 
member of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 
0. 0. F., for over fifty years. He is a Re- 
publican. He attends Grace Methodist Epis- 
copal church, of which his wife is a member 



Kepple, John, cigar manufacturer, was 
born in Lancaster, Pa., April 7, 1819. He 
is a son of the late John and Susanna (Baer) 
Kepple, both natives of Lancaster county, 
where they spent their entire lives. John 



Reed, George Engard, deceased, was 
born in Philadelphia, Pa., December 19, 
1834. He was a son of Samuel and Sarah 
(Kehr) Reed, and grandson of Col. Philip 
Reed, of Pennsylvania Horse during the 
Revolutionary war. He was educated in 
Philadelphia and learned bricklaying. He 
worked on the erection of the "Jupiter" 
Lighthouse, in the Jupiter Inlet, Fla. 
While a journeyman he worked on the 
Pennsylvania railroad station in Harrisburg. 
In 1865 he located permanently in Harris- 
burg as a contractor. In 1866 he engaged 
in the retail tobacco business, on Market 
street, and continued it until his death, in 
1893. In 1878 he and John K. May formed 
a partnership in the grocery business, under 
the firm name of Reed & May, in which he 
continued during his life. In 1888 the firm 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



623 



engaged in the manufacture of building brick, 

and did an extensive business. 

Mr. Reed served four enlistments, cover- 
ing nineteen years, in the National Guard of 
Pennsylvania. He was lieutenant of the 
" City Grays," and through 1 1 is efforts the 
present building of that company was 
erected. He was a Republican. He served 
eleven years as a member of the common 
council, and for the same length of time was 
on the board of city control, and was presi- 
dent of that board for one term. 

He married, in 1869, Margaret Barnett, 
daughter of Henry H. and Jane (Barnett) 
Lutz, of Harrisburg, by whom he had one 
child, Philip. Mr. Reed was a charter mem- 
ber and trustee of the Industrial Home; he 
always took an active interest in all affairs of 
a public or charitable nature. 

He enlisted, May 22, 1S61, in company E, 
Third New Jersey volunteers, and was as- 
signed to the First brigade, Runyon's divi- 
sion, New Jersey volunteers. He took part 
in the battles of Bull Run, Kearney's Bridge 
and Cloud's Mills, and was also in the en- 
gagement at Springfield Station. He was 
discharged on surgeon's certificate, October 
15, 1861; re-enlisted, December 14, 1861, in 
company A, Ninety-fifth Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, and was assigned to Third brigade, 
First division, First army corps, Army of 
the Potomac, April 10, 1862 ; and to the 
Second brigade, First division. Sixth corps, 
on May 18. He took part in the battles of 
Fair Oaks, the Seven Days before Richmond, 
Gaines' Mills, Gadden Farm, Carter Farm, 
Saville Station, Glen Dale, Malvern Hill, 
Second Bull Run, Chantilly, Sugarloaf 
Mountain, Antietam, Shepherdstown Ford, 
Hartwood Church, Fredericksburg, Frank- 
lin's Crossing, Bennett's Farm, Maryland 
Heights, Gordonville Road, Salem Heights, 
Gettysburg, Parktown, Md., Hagerstown, 
Rappahannock Station, Mine Run and Lo- 
cust Grove. He re-enlisted, December 22, 
L863, in the same company, and was in the 
battles of the Wilderness, Alsop Farm. Laurel 
Hill, Spottsyl van ia. and Bloody Angle, where 
he was taken prisoner and confined in An- 
dersonville, Ga., Cahawba, Ala., and Flor- 
ence, S. C. He was one of the two hundred 
and fifty prisoners held under fire of the 
Union guns in Shelltown, Charleston, S. C, 
whose removal to safer quarters Admiral 
Dahlgren compelled by t h reatening to steam 
up to the town with rebel prisoners outside 



the turrets of his monitors. Mr. Reed was 
in charge of the Gangrene Hospital at Flor- 
ence, S. C, and performed many surgical 
operations with a Barlow knife and scissors. 
Two well-attested cases of his skill were those 
of John W. January, of company B. Four- 
teenth Illinois cavalry, and Calvin Bates, of 
the Eighth Maine volunteers. He was paroled 
at Florence, and mustered out May 27,1865, 
and March 9, 1869, he enlisted in the First 
City Zouaves, of Harrisburg ; was made ser- 
geant in company A, First City Zouaves, De- 
cember 11, 1870 ; first sergeant, December 1 1 . 
LS71 ; second lieutenant company D, City 
(Ways, National Guard of Pennsylvania, De- 
cember 12, 1876. He retired from the service 
in 1888. He was a prominent member of 
Post 58, G. A. R. 

Henry H. Lutz, deceased, father of Mrs. 
George E. Reed, was the son of Jacob Lutz, 
who emigrated from Germany, sent to 
America by the East India Company and 
located in Ohio. Henry H. was born in 
Steubenville, Ohio, and came to Harrisburg 
when a boy. He learned house painting 
and in 1845 retired from business. He was 
for many years crier of the Dauphin County 
Court, and served as high constable of the 
borough of Harrisburg. He was a confiden- 
tial friend of Judge Pearson. 

Mr. Lutz married Jane, daughter of 
Thomas and Sarah (Finney) Barnett. He 
died in 1867, and his wife in 1848. They 
were members of the Baptist church, and 
took an active interest in church work, Mr. 
Lutz holding the office of deacon. He was 
trustee of the Church of God and helped to 
build their church edifice. Mr. and Mrs. 
Lutz had nine children : Sarah Jane; Cath- 
erine Ann, Mrs. William F. Mc( lure, of Mid- 
dletown; Mary Elizabeth, Mrs. William M. 
Harmon, of Louisville, Ky.: Margaret, Mrs. 
George E. Reed, of Harrisburg; Harriet X., 
Mrs. Samuel R. Patterson, of Neosha, Mo. ; 
Lieut. Henry H., enlisted in company I, 
Seventh Pennsylvania cavalry, died in 
Nashville, Tenn., from the effects of wounds 
received by the falling of his horse in battle; 
Thomas Barnett, Martin, and Helen Matilda. 



Reed, Philip, was born in Harrisburg, 
Pa., January 13, 1S70. He was educated in 
the city schools and learned, of his father, 
(be trade of bricklaying. After his father's 
death he took charge of his business, and is 



(524 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



now a partner with John K. May, in the 
manufacture of brick. He was married, in 
1895, to Miss Margaret P., daughter of Syl- 
vester and Susan Sunday, of Harrisburg. 

Herman, John C, deceased, was born on 
Shelly's Island, in the Susquehanna river, 
Dauphin county, Pa., November 5, 1836; son 
of Abraham and Elizabeth (Crull) Herman. 
His parents removed to the vicinity of Lew- 
isberry, York county, where he was reared 
and received his education. He served an 
apprenticeship at cigar making, and began 
business for himself early in life; at the 
outset of his career he displayed extraor- 
dinary business tact and talent. 

At the breaking out of the war of the Re- 
bellion, Mr. Herman yielded to his patriotic 
impulses and sentiments, laid aside his busi- 
ness and enlisted in the army in response 
to the call of President Lincoln. He was 
enrolled and mustered into company K, One 
Hundred and Thirtieth Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, and was with his regiment in some 
of the most hotly contested engagements of 
the war, conspicuous among which are the 
battles of Antietam, Fredericksburg, and 
Chancellorsville. He was honorably dis- 
charged from the service when his term of 
enlistment had expired, and returned to the 
occupations of civil life, bearing in his body 
the marks of wounds received on the fields 
of conflict. After leaving the army, Mr. 
Herman returned to Lewisberry, Pa., and 
was for a short time engaged in the tobacco 
business ; from there went to York and es- 
tablished a wholesale business. In 1866 he 
became senior partner in the firm of Her- 
man & Hay, and established a wholesale 
and retail tobacco business in Harrisburg, 
which occupied him for the remainder of 
his life. Mr. Hay retired from the firm at 
the end of two years, and the business was 
thereafter ably and successfully conducted 
by Mr. Herman, who also dealt extensively 
in leaf tobacco. He was the first person to 
take out a manufacturer's license in the 
Harrisburg district. The integrity of his 
character and his honorable methods in 
business won for him the utmost confidence 
of all who dealt with him, and as a result 
his commercial relations were rapidly and 
widely extended, and he attained the most 
gratifying success. He was the local whole- 
sale agent for some of the most famous to- 
bacco manufacturers and merchants in the 
world, who unhesitatingly entrusted him 



with valuable business interests, and cordi- 
ally honored him as an able and honest man 
and merchant. 

Although busily occupied with the im- 
portant and varied interests of his private 
enterprise, which were never neglected or 
slighted, he found time to participate in 
politics, and was often active in public 
affairs, being several times honored by his 
fellow-citizens with positions of trust. In 
1881 he was selected to serve the unexpired 
term of Mayor Patterson, and at the subse- 
quent election was chosen by a large major- 
ity to this important office. His official 
career was characterized by the same ability 
and fidelity that he had displayed in com- 
mercial affairs. Retiring from office, Mr. 
Herman resumed business, and personally 
supervised his vast establishment until his 
death. The illness which resulted in his 
death had its inception in a severe cold con- 
tracted in the year previous, which, together 
with a disease of the heart, baffled all medi- 
cal skill, and gradually brought him down 
to the grave. He was well aware of his 
approaching dissolution, and made ready 
his affairs, meeting his end with peace and 
resignation. Mr. Herman was prominently 
identified with the Masonic fraternity, being 
a member of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, 
and Pilgrim Commandery. Knights Temp- 
lar. He was also a prominent member of 
Post 58, G. A. R., and one of the founders of 
the Young Men's Republican Club, being 
its second president, and a member until its 
dissolution. He was a charter member of 
the Board of Trade and took an active in- 
terest in building up the city. He was 
chairman of the citizens' committee who 
erected the monument at State and Second 
streets to the memory of the soldiers of 
Dauphin county. 

Mr. Herman had the most kindly dispo- 
sition, and was uniformly genial and cour- 
teous. He was warm hearted and generous, 
and enjoyed the esteem and affection of his 
fellow-men. He died July 17, 1886, and 
was followed to his tomb by a large con- 
course of citizens. 

He was married, in 1861, to Miss Frances, 
daughter of Moses McGrew, of York county. 
His widow and three children survive. The 
children are: Edwin S.; Jennie F., who mar- 
ried Dr. John C. Bucher, of Lebanon, Pa., 
and Florence M. 

Edwin S. Herman was born in Lewisberry, 
York county, Pa., May 9, 1864. After fin- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



625 



ishing his education in the Harrisburg high 
school he became associated with his father 
in business. After the death of his father 
he conducted the business as an estate for 
about eight years, when he and his mother 
became the sole owners, and have since con- 
ducted the business under the firm name of 
John C. Herman & Co. Mr. Herman was a 
very young man when the death of his 
father cast the burden of conducting the 
business upon him, and he is entitled to 
much credit for the able and successful 
manner in which he has managed it. He 
is an active young business man, a member 
of the Board of Trade, and a director in the 
Harrisburg Trust Company. He is a Re- 
publican in politics. He is a member of all 
branches of the Masonic fraternity, from the 
blue lodge to the consistory. 

Mr. Herman was married in 1887 to Miss 
C. Almeda Kunkel Wallower, daughter of 
Col. John and Mary (Zollinger) Wallower, 
of Harrisburg. They have two children, 
Frances Mary and John Crull. Mrs. Her- 
man is a member of Grace Methodist Epis- 
copal church. 



Smith, Charles G, was born in Wurtem- 
berg, Germany, September 12, 1847. He is 
a sou of Frederick and Wilhelmina (Kuebler) 
Smith, who came to America in 1851 and 
located in Harrisburg. The father lived re- 
tired from active business until his death, in 
1860. 

Charles G. was the youngest of five chil- 
dren, all of whom are deceased excepting 
himself and one brother, Frederick, of Phil- 
adelphia, Pa. Mr. Smith was educated 
in the public schools of Harrisburg. He 
learned cigarmaking, and in 1860 engaged 
in the manufacture of cigars on Forster 
street. In 1S66 he enlarged his business 
and located at 506 Market street, where he 
remained until 1885. He then removed to 
139 Market street, and in September, 1S95, 
to his present location. He does an exten- 
sive wholesale and retail tobacco business. 
In 1882 he admitted John J. Keffer as a 
partner, and the firm has since been Smith 
& Keffer. 

In 1885 he and John B. Litch, of Steelton, 
engaged in the leaf tobacco business, that is, 
pinking and curing, under the firm name of 
of C. G. Smith & Co., and have since 
continued this business. This is one of 
the leading firms of the State in this line. 
They buy tobacco directly from the pro- 



ducers, and cure, pack and ship it to all mar- 
kets. Tiny buy in the States of Wisconsin, 
Ohio, Connecticut, New York and Pennsyl- 
vania. They have an extensive warehouse 
on Eleventh street, Harrisburg, and one at 
Marietta, Lancaster county. 

Mr. Smith's start in business was with a 
capital of §300, and this sum was saved 
from his own earnings. As a business man, 
it is an exact use of language to term him a 
self-made man. His characteristics are re- 
flected aud defined in his success. Nothing 
but industry, energy, enterprise, integrity, 
intelligence and sound judgment could pro- 
duce results so desirable as the foundation, 
growth, permanence and returns of Mr. 
Smith's extensive business. He is a Demo- 
crat; he has been repeatedly solicited to ac- 
cept office, but has always declined. Mr. 
Smith is a member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M. He was married, in 1867, 
to Miss Sarah E.. daughter of Peter Keffer, 
of Lancaster county, and niece of Prof. 
Washington Keffer. They have five chil- 
dren: Clara, Mrs. S. Wirt Mosser, of Har- 
risburg; Annie, deceased, wife of David 
Rahter, of Harrisburg ; Laura, Katherine, 
and Linda. Mr. Smith was one of the or- 
ganizers of the Board of Trade. He attends 
St. Paul's Episcopal church; he was for 
many vears warden of that church. 



Keffer, John- .]., of the firm of Smith & 
Keffer, tobacconists, was born in Lancaster, 
Pa., October 16, 1S48. He is a son of Peter 
B. and Annie M. (Royal) Keffer. His pa- 
ternal grandfather, Henry B. Keffer, was 
born in Germany, where he was educated 
and learned carpentry. Coming to this 
country, he located in Lancaster, and there 
followed his trade. He was a prominent 
politician, and was elected to various offices, 
among them that of county commissioner. 
He was married in Lancaster, to Miss Eliza- 
beth Brock, a native of Germany. Their 
children were : Peter B., John L., Washing- 
ton, Benjamin, and Julius: all now deceased. 
Henry B. Keffer died January 9, 1850, aged 
sixty-five years: his wife died November 14. 
1S71, aged eighty-six. Mr. Killer's maternal 
grandparents were both natives of Germany. 

Peter B. Keller, father of John J., was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., December 20, 
L820. lie followed the occupation of house 
painting until the outbreak of the war of 
the Rebellion. He was one of the first to 
enlist in the army, under the call of Presi- 



626 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



dent Lincoln for three years' soldiers. He 
was discharged, December 18, 1864, on ac- 
count of disability. After the war, he lived 
retired from active business. His wife, 
Annie M. Royal, was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., February 22, 1821, daughter of 
Josiah Royal. They had nine children, 
eight of whom are living: Annie M., wife of 
D. B. McDonald; Henry B.; Sarah E., wife 
of C. G. Smith ; John J.; Clara, wife of Dr. E. 
Fornias, Philadelphia, Pa.; Washington B.; 
Charles F. Edward F. died at the age of 
eight years. Mr. Keffer was a Democrat. 
He was a member of the Episcopal church. 
He died in Harrisburg, November 8, 1874, 
aged fifty-four. His wife is living ; she 
resides in Harrisburg, and is in good health, 
at the age of seventy-four. 

John J. Keffer attended the public schools 
of Lancaster county until he was twelve 
years of age. In 1860 he became clerk in 
a tailoring establishment, where he was 
employed three years. In 1863 he began an 
apprenticeship of three and a half years at 
coach trimming. Upon its completion, in 
1867, he was made foreman in the trimming 
department, and served in that capacity for 
nine months; he then resigned. In 1868 
he was employed as a coach trimmer by 
Stoner & Co., of Pittsburgh, Pa., for eight 
months. He was next employed by Vance, 
Halleck & Whiteside, Harrisburg, Pa., for 
eight months. During 1871 he served as 
passenger brakeman on the Pennsylvania 
railroad, between Harrisburg and Altoona, 
and between Harrisburg and Philadelphia. 
In 1872 he was employed bj' C. G. Smith as 
clerk in the wholesale tobacco business. 
After a clerkship of two years he became 
the partner of Mr. Smith, under the firm 
name of Smith & Keffer, doing business at 
506 Market street. The firm removed in 
1885 to No. 439 Market street. After con- ' 
ducting business there for ten years they 
removed in 1895 to No. 432, same street, 
where they have established a large and in- 
creasing business. 

Mr. Keffer was married in Lancaster, No- 
vember 8, 1877, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter 
of William and Elizabeth (Showers) Mar- 
shall, born in Lancaster, June 20, 1847. 
They have six children, of whom four are 
living : Edward, Frank, John and Donald. 
Their deceased children are : Charles W., 
died in 1885, aged seven years, and Sarah 
E., died in infancy. 

Mr. Keffer has for ten years been an active 



member of the Masonic order, Lodge No. 21, 
and for twenty-three years has belonged to 
Capital Citv Castle, No. 40, K. G. E., and 
to the Knights of the Mystic Chain, No. 17. 
In his political views he is Independent. 

William Marshall, father of Mrs. Keffer, 
was born in Lancaster city, Pa., January 12, 
1834. He was a shoemaker, and pursued 
that calling for thirty years. He was then 
appointed overseer at Franklin and Mar- 
shall College, and held that position for some 
years, after which he retired. His wife, 
Elizabeth Sowers, was the daughter of 
Henry and Elizabeth Sowers. Their living 
children are: James H; Elizabeth, Mrs. 
John J. Keffer; William A., lieutenant in 
the United States navy; Emma; Alice, wife 
of Harry G Elias. Mr. Marshall died, Feb- 
ruary 13, 1881, aged sixty-nine years ; his 
wife died June 16, 1893, aged seventy-nine. 
Both were members of St. John's Episcopal 
church. Mrs. Keffer's grandparents were 
natives of Lancaster county. Her grand- 
father was born in Lancaster. 



Clemens, Peter H., was born near Mc- 
Kee's Half Falls, Snyder county, Pa,, Octo- 
ber 3, 1851. He is a son of Peter and Har- 
rietta (Burraughs) Clemens. The father, 
Peter Clemens, was born in Snyder county, 
May 22, 1819. He was a blacksmith, and 
afterwards a farmer. He married, in March ,- 
1844, Miss Harrietta Burraughs, who was 
born in New Berlin, Union county, daughter 
of Benjamin Burraughs, a native of Ireland. 
Their children are: Benjamin F.; Mary D., 
wife of Peter Ziegler, deceased ; Lydia A., 
wife of James Bell ; Peter H.; Wesley E.; 
John D.; U. S. G.; George I., died April 3, 
1863, at Norfolk, Va., aged seventeen ; Joseph 
B., deceased, and Susanna, wife of August 
McCarty. Mr. Clemens is a Democrat. He 
was supervisor of Snyder county for one 
term. The family are members of the 
United Brethren church. The parents are 
living retired in Mifflin county. The father 
of Mrs. Clemens was born in 1782, and died 
at Lancaster, aged sixty-eight years. The 
mother of Mr. Clemens was born in 1798, 
and died aged seventy-five. 

Peter H. Clemens received a limited edu- 
cation in the schools of Liverpool, Perry 
county, Pa. At the age of eleven he began 
to work for himself, and was employed for 
eight months on a farm. Subsequently he 
went on the canal, and for three years was a 
driver between Liverpool, and Harrisburg. 



DA UPHIN CO UNTT . 



627 



He was next employed for one year in the 
mines at Lykens, afterwards for two years 
in the mines at another place. He then 
served an apprenticeship of one year at car- 
pentry with Henry Hoover, Berrysburg, 
Dauphin county. The next year he worked 
at his trade with John M. Funstach, Sun- 
bury, Pa., after which he engaged in business 
for himself for one year at S'inbury and then 
for three years at Shenandoah, Schuylkill 
county. Thence lie went to Williamsport, 
and met an Englishman, with whom he 
went to Pittsburgh, in search of employment. 
Not succeeding at Pittsburgh, they went to 
Cleveland, Ohio, where they were offered a 
job, which they could not accept, because 
they had lost their tools. They worked on 
the streets in Cleveland for a half a day, and 
then went into the country, where they be- 
came acquainted with a Pennsylvanian and 
secured a two weeks' job in the stone quarry. 
After receiving their wages and settling their 
bills they had only one dollar left, and voted 
the job unprofitable. They then contracted 
with a farmer to cut wood for him for six 
months. Receiving a little money in ad- 
vance, they procured some lumber from 
Cleveland and built a shanty in the woods 
for their winter quarters. This engagement 
completed, Mr. Clemens found his first job 
at his trade in Cleveland, and after working 
there for three months returned to Shenan- 
doah, Pa., where he carried on carpentry for 
a year. For two weeks he worked at cutting 
grain and hay in Columbia county. His 
partner getting into some trouble they went 
from that place to Newton Hamilton, Mifflin 
count}', where they were for two years en- 
gaged in carpenter work. 

Peter H. Clemens was married, November 
24, 1874, to Rebecca, daughter of Sanders 
and Hannah J. (Hewit) Daniels. They had 
six children : Bessie L., Rosa, Gertrude, An- 
nette II., Charles W., Peter II. and Law- 
rence B. 

After his marriage Mr. Clemens went to 
Hout/.dale, Clearfield county, where lie en- 
gaged in contracting for one year. lie pur- 
chased a lot and built a house, but sold his 
property the next year. His wife went to 
her parents and he returned to his old 
home, where he lived inactive for a year. 
The next winter he was employed to make 
ties for the railroad at Newton Hamilton. 
In the following spring he went to Havana. 
N. Y., where he worked at his trade for two 
years. In the next year he went to Trenton 



Junction, where his brother gave him a lot 
on which he built a house for himself and 
carried on his business for a year. He was 
next employed for a year in the car shops at 
Harrisburg, and then for four years engaged 
in house building on his own account. He 
then removed his family to Philadelphia 
where he was in business for himself for 
three years. Having secured a building 
contract at St. Louis, Mo., he was there for 
a year, then returned to Philadelphia, and 
worked at his trade there for two years 
longer. He then went to Harrisburg, bought 
the property at the corner of Six-and-a-half 
and Park streets, and began a cigar and to- 
bacco business which he has conducted up 
to the present time in addition to working 
as a carpenter. Mr. Clemens has for twelve 
years been a member of Lamberton Lodge, 
No. 708, I. 0. 0. F. His politics are Demo- 
cratic. He is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church. 

Mrs. Peter H. Clemens was born February 
2, 1853. Ller parents, Sanders and Hannah 
J. Daniels, were both natives of Mifflin 
county where they were engaged in farming. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Daniels are : 
Annette, Charles, Annie, wife of Frederick 
Kreitzer, Sadie, Mollie, and Rebecca, Mrs. 
Clemens, all living. Their deceased chil- 
dren are: Ida, wife of John C. Norton ; Ke- 
tura, Andrew J., Mamie, and two that died 
in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Daniels now re- 
side in Altoona, Pa., where Mr. Daniels is em- 
ployed in the railroad shops, and they con- 
duct a boarding house. Mr. Daniels is a 
Democrat. The family are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal church. 

Mrs. Clemens had previously been mar- 
ried to Matthew Gaff, who was killed on the 
railroad, October 30, 1873. To this mar- 
riage there was one child born, Melinda B., 
wife of Thomas Boehm, residing in Phila- 
delphia. 



Hoopes, JACOB B., cigar manufacturer, was 
born near Coldsboro. York county. Pa. May 
30, 1854; son of Jacob B. and Mary (num- 
bers) lloopes. His parents were both na- 
tives of York county. They were engaged 
in agricultural pursuits until 1861, when 
they removed to Harrisburg where the 
father died. November 7. 1891, and the 
mother, August 5, L875. Of their five chil- 
dren, one died in childhood, and the sur- 
vivors are: Harry A.. Joseph M.. Daniel B., 
and Jacob B. Jacob P. was seven years old 



628 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



when he came with his parents to Harris- 
burg. He attended the public schools of the 
city and afterwards learned the trade of 
cigar manufacturer, which has been his oc- 
cupation since his boyhood. He embarked 
in business for himself in 1882, and by his 
able business management and commercial 
integrity has taken his place among the 
most enterprising and successful business 
men of Harrisburg. Mr. Hoopes was mar- 
ried, in Harrisburg, February 7,1874, to Ida 
Albright, by whom he has three children : 
Bessie, Nellie D. and Bertha. In politics he 
is a Republican. He attends the Lutheran 
church. 



Cooper, Alford L., tobacconist, was born 
in Harrisburg, November 11, 1865; son of 
Charles and Margaret (Stansbury) Cooper, 
the former a native of New Jersey, the lat- 
ter of Baltimore, Md. The father came to 
Harrisburg with his parents when he was 
about three years old. and has since been a 
continuous resident of the city. In his 
earlier life he was a market gardener, but 
later has been employed in the mills as a 
machinist. His parents had six children, of 
whom five are living: Mary Catherine, wife 
of Joseph Hurst, Harrisburg; Charles L., 
Harrisburg; John Wesle}', residence not 
known; Alford L. ; Margaret S., and one 
child who died in infancy. Alford L. was 
educated in the schools of Harrisburg, and 
learned the trade of coach trimming, at 
which he worked for three years; subse- 
quently he was in the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Compan}^ as brake- 
man until November, 1894, when he en- 
gaged in his present business. Mr. Cooper 
is a member of America Council, No. 3, 0. 
U. A. M. The family attend the Pine Street 
Presbvteiian church. 



Holtzman, George M., was born in Mil- 
lersburg, Dauphin county, Pa., August 16, 
1870. He is a son of Frank J. and Ellen 
A. (Kline) Holtzman. His grandfather 
Holtzman was born in Berks county, in 
1825, and is one of the oldest residents of 
Millersburg. For many years he dealt ex- 
tensively in cattle, and was well and favor- 
ably known throughout the State. Frank 
J. Holtzman, the father of George M., was 
born in Millersburg, and his mother in 
Hamburg, Berks county; she died in De- 
cember, 1874 ; the father is still living. 
They had three children: William F., of 



Harrisburg ; George M., and Agnes, wife of 
Dr. Batdorf, of Millersburg. 

George M. Holtzman came with his par- 
ents to Dauphin county. They located in 
West Hanover township, where he was edu- 
cated in the public schools. He was first 
employed as a salesman, and engaged in 
business for himself May 2, 1894. 

Mr. Holtzman was married in Harrisburg, 
March 27, 1894, to Bertha M., daughter of 
Benjamin Atkinson. They have no chil- 
dren. He is a member of the Board of 
Trade. He belongs to John Harris Council, 
No. 174, Jr. 0. U. A. M.; to Warrior Eagle 
Tribe, I. 0. R. M.; and to the Fraternal 
Mystic Circle. He is a Republican. He 
attends the Salem Reformed church, of 
which Mrs. Holtzman is a member. 



Holcombe, Henry W., cigar manufac- 
turer and tobacco jobber, Harrisburg, was 
born July 25, 1872. He is a son of Lewis 
P. and Valeria (Gregory) Holcombe. Rich- 
ard and Thankful (Shrope) Holcombe, the 
grandparents of Henry W., were natives of 
New Jersey, where the grandfather spent 
his life. He was a prominent and success- 
ful business man, a miller. He was killed. 
March 3, 1860, by the explosion of the boiler 
of a steamboat of which he was a part owner. 
The grandmother died at Easton, Pa. They 
had but two children : Mary E.,wife of John 
P. Bennett, of Hackettstown, N. J., and Lewis 
P., father of Henry W. 

Lewis P. Holcombe was born in Fleming- 
ton, Huntingdon county, N. J., September 
10, 1852. While he was a child, his parents 
removed, first to Asbury, N. J., thence to 
Lambertsville, N. J., and subsequently to 
Belvidere, Warren county, N. J., where his 
father was killed, as above described. The 
widow and her son, Lewis, removed to Jersey 
Cit} 7 ,N- J- Here he attended a private school 
for about five years. He then became sales- 
man in a retail dry goods store in New York, 
where he remained about three j^ears. After 
this he attended the Excelsior Normal In- 
stitute, Carversville, Bucks county, Pa., for 
two years. He was then engaged for a short 
time as bookkeeper in Philadelphia. In 
1869 he removed to Harrisburg, and for the 
ensuing three years was employed by Dr. A. 
Patterson in the carpet business. In 1872 
he entered the employ of Henry Gregory, 
and was with him for eleven years. He has 
since been employed as accountant and as 







fTiM^^rr^ &Usr^€i^s 



hMl'IH.X UOIWTY. 



631 



traveling salesman, principally for New Jer- 
sey and Philadelphia firms. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, in July, 
1871, to Miss Valeria, daughter of Henry 
and Matilda Gregory. They have had four 
children, of whom three are living: Henry 
W. ; Louis R., boru November 13, 1877 ; 
and Zephaniah, born March 20, 1872. Mrs. 
Holcombe died December 1G, 1891. 

Mr. L. P. Holcombe is Republican in pol- 
itics. He attends the Presbyterian church. 

Henry W. Holcombe has lived all his life 
in Harrisburg, and was educated in the city 
schools. He was graduated from the high 
school in 1893, from which date until 1895 he 
was employed by bis grandfather, Henry 
Gregory, as traveling salesman. Since Sep- 
tember, 1895, he has been a cigar manufac- 
turer. He was married, in Camden, N. J., 
February 26, 1894, to Miss Laura J., daughter 
of John and Sarah A. Rider, of Harrisburg, 
but both natives of East Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, and both deceased. H. 
W. and Laura Holcombe have one son, 
Henry Gregory, born November 10, 1895. 
Mr. Holcombe is a Republican. He and 
his wife are members of the Reformed 
el lurch. 



Wiestling, Samuel C, grocer, was born 
in Harrisburg, Pa., January 20, 1825. He 
is a son of Samuel C. and Henrietta (Doll) 
Wiestling, both deceased. They were Penn- 
sylvanians, and of German ancestry. For 
many years they were honored residents of 
Harrisburg. Of their five children, three 
are living: Caroline, of Lebanon, Pa., widow 
of the late Thomas Bibighaus, a member of 
Congress; Joseph G, and Samuel G, resid- 
ing in Harrisburg. 

Samuel C. Wiestling was educated in the 
private and public schools of Harrisburg. 
With the exception of ten months' ser- 
vice in the United States army, during 
the late Rebellion, and two years' resi- 
dence in Philadelphia, his entire life has 
been spent in Ins native city. He learned 
carpentry, and has been extensively engaged 
in contracting and building, lie built the 
Grand Opera House, remodeled the Re- 
formed church edifice on Chestnut street, 
and constructed many of the finest resi- 
dences in the city of Harrisburg. Aban- 
doning building and contracting in 1S77. 
he established himself in the grocery busi- 
ness, to which he has devoted all his atten- 
tion since 'that time. His ten months of 

42 



army service was as private in company H, 
Two Hundred and First Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, and as hospital steward. 

Mr. Wiestling was married in Harrisburg, 
January 8, 1857, to Eliza, (laughter of Levi 
and Eliza (Amey) Weaver, born in Phila- 
delphia, May 17, 1835. They had two chil- 
dren ; both died young. 

He is an active member of Central Lodge, 
No. 19, A. 0. U. W. His political views are 
Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Wiestling are 
members of Salem Reformed church. 



Burkholdek, William, merchant, was 
born in Franklin county, Pa.. July 3 3, 1827. 
He is a son of the late Jacob and Mary 
(Shoemaker) Burkholder. His maternal 
grandparents, David and Magdalen a Shoe- 
maker, were both natives of Franklin county, 
Pa. They were farmers. They lived to an 
advanced age. Their children were three 
in number: John, Elizabeth, wife of Chris- 
tian Burkholder, and Mary, wile of Jacob 
Burkholder. The parents of William Burk- 
holder were both born in Franklin county. 
His father, Jacob Burkholder, was born July 
24, 1788, and died April 14, 1SG5. He was 
a farmer. His wife, Mary Shoemaker, was 
born August 10, 17^4, and died October 20, 
1871. They had nine children, three of 
whom are living: David, William and Mary, 
wife of Jacob Kohr, residing in Franklin 
county near the old homestead. Their de- 
ceased children were Catherine. Adam, 
Daniel, Jacob, Elizabeth, wife of Abraham 
Wenger, and John. 

William Burkholder received a limited 
education in the public schools of Franklin 
county. As is usual with boys on the farm 
he attended school in the winter and assisted 
on the farm during the summer. At the 
age of eighteen he began an apprenticeship 
of two and a half years at shoemaking. lie 
followed this occupation for about twenty- 
five years. A Uw years before the war lie 
removed from Franklin to Cumberland 
county. October 16, 1862, he enlisted for 
the nine months' service in company A. < >ne 
Hundred and Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania 
volunteers. After his discharge from the 
army he Worked two years in mercantile 
business, after which lie removed to Harris- 
burg and was employed one year in a shoe 
store on State street. On account of the 
business panic he lost his place and while 
waiting for financial prospects to brighten 
he and his sons worked at shoemaking ; but 



632 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



this business he was obliged to abandon on 
account of failing health. When the panic 
was over his former employer gave him 
work for one year, after which he engaged in 
broommaking on Boyd avenue, Harrisburg. 
He next removed to Broad street where he 
and his two sons carried on a factory and 
store for four years. His next removal was 
to 1316 Margaret street, where for a short 
time he had a broom factory. Then, having 
erected at this place a large and convenient 
building, he opened a grocery store and for 
the past ten years has done a large and suc- 
cessful business in this line. He is well-es- 
tablished and generally known, having been 
a resident of Harrisburg for twenty-five 
years. 

While living in Cumberland county he 
served one year as supervisor, and also as 
school director of Silvers Spring township. 

He was twice married. His first wife was 
Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Stephen and 
Catherine Laush, both of Cumberland 
county. Mr. Laush was a pumpmaker. 
Their children were Elizabeth, Andrew and 
Mary. Mr. Burkholder had but one child 
by his first wife, Annie E., who died in in- 
fancy. Mrs. Burkholder died, aged about 
twenty-four years. Mr. Burkholder's second 
marriage was with Miss Annie, daughter of 
Philip and Elizabeth Snell. Her father was 
born in York county, Pa. He was for a 
number of years a weaver and was after- 
wards engaged in farming. Her mother was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa. They had 
eight children; the only one now living is 
Catherine, wife of Benjamin Hoover. Those 
deceased are : Lena, married first to Philip 
Keaner and afterwards to Lawrence New- 
gard ; Elizabeth, wife of Mr. Hurst; George; 
Mary, wife of Joseph Newcomer; Fannie, sec- 
ond wife of Joseph Newcomer; Annie E., and 
Christian. Philip Snell died at the age of 
nearly eighty years. Both he and his wife 
were members of the Lutheran church, in 
Cumberland county, Mr. Burkholder had 
three children hy his second wife, two of 
whom are living: Jacob and William H. 
Joseph N. died March 30, 1889, aged thirty- 
two years. Mrs. Annie Burkholder died 
November 29, 1893, aged seventy-one. Mr. 
Burkholder is Democratic in politics. He 
belongs to the United Brethren in Christ; 
both of his wives were members of the same 
church. 

Jacob Burkholder, eldest son of William, 
was born May 6, 1854, and was educated in the 



public schools of Cumberland county. He 
started in business as an attendant in an 
asylum where he was employed for two 
years. He afterwards worked one year for 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as 
helper on the gravel train. At the age of 
twenty-one he was employed by the Jackson 
Manufacturing Co., manufacturers of inter- 
locking switches, as traveling agent. He 
then removed to Allentown, Pa., still being 
in the same business. He was married De- 
cember 26, 1873, to Miss Rebecca J., daughter 
of Joseph Feeman. They had one daughter, 
who died in infancy. His wife died Sep- 
tember 29, 1881. Mr. Jacob Burkholder is 
now an undertaker in Allentown. He is a 
member of several lodges. 

William Burkholder, Jr., youngest son of 
William, was born September 23, 1857. He 
also was educated in Cumberland county. 
At the age of sixteen he learned broom- 
making and followed this occupation for 
twenty-three years. He was married, Sep- 
tember 28, 1880, to Miss Clara, daughter of 
Adam and Catherine (Brenner) Stauffer. 
They had two sons, Charles A. and Arthur J. 

Mr. William Burkholder, Jr., is engaged 
with his father in the grocery business. v He 
is a member of the American Mechanics, 
No. 106, and of Washington Campy No. 8, 
P. 0. S. of A. He is a Democrat and a mem- 
ber of the United Brethren church. 



Potteiger, Jacob, grocer, was born in 
Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., December 24, 1833; son of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Feeser) Potteiger. Jacob Pottei- 
ger, the grandfather, came from Berks 
county, and settled in Lower Paxton town- 
ship. He married Mary Deck. The father 
was the oldest of seven children, the only 
survivors of whom are: Jonathan, of 
Lower Paxton township ; Daniel, of Fort 
Hunter, Dauphin county; Elizabeth, (Mrs. 
Jonathan Crum), of Illinois. He was 
born in Berks or Dauphin county, and 
reared on the farm. He learned the black- 
smith trade, and followed it, having a shop 
near Linglestown, where he worked until 
his death, in 1853. In politics he was a 
Democrat. He was a member of the Lu- 
theran church, in which he held the office 
of deacon. His wife died in 1870. She was 
a daughter of Peter Feeser. They raised 
eleven children, ten of whom are living: 
Jacob; Elizabeth (Mrs. Reuben Conrad), of 
Seneca county, Ohio; Alert, "of Fishing 



DA I I'll! X Cor STY 



G33 



Creek Valley, Middle Paxton township; 
Sarah, deceased; Jonathan, of Halifax: 
Matilda (Mrs. Samuel Hepford), of Harris- 
burg; David, of Lock Haven, l'a.; George, 
of West Hanover township, blacksmith ; 
James, of Ohio, merchant; Levi, of Iowa, 
laundry, etc.; William, of Ohio, painter and 
paper hanger. 

Jacob was reared and educated in Lower 
Paxton township. He also attended school 
in Linglestown, and subsequently taught 
school five terms in the township, after 
which he was engaged in farming four years. 
In 1SG7 he settled at Progress, in Dauphin 
county, where he conducted a general mer- 
cantile business until 1871, when he pur- 
chased his present property in Harrisburg, 
and has since continued in the same line of 
trade. Mr. Potteiger is a director of the 
East Harrisburg Building and Loan Asso- 
ciation. In his politics he is a Republican, 
and has served as a school director one term 
from the Ninth ward, and also as assessor of 
the same ward. He is also a member of the 
Improved Order of Heptasophs. 

Mr. Potteiger was married, in 1858, to Miss 
Rebecca Allbright, daughter of Henry All- 
bright, in Lower Paxton township, who died 
June 14,1893, leaving only one child, Emma 
O, wife of Wesley Hoover, of Harrisburg. 
He is a member of the Thirteenth Street Lu- 
theran church, of which he has also served 
as treasurer. He also served as an elder 
and secretary of the council of the Memorial 
Lutheran church, and was one of the organ- 
izers of that congregation. 



Etter, Calvin, was born in Newport, 
Perry county, Pa., in December, 1835. He 
is a son of the late Henry H. and Mary 
(Shaffner) Etter. Henry H. Etter was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa. He was for along 
time engaged in boating on the canal. For 
many years he was proprietor of the Warm 
Springs Hotel, Warm Springs, Perry county. 
He was fur a time employed under the 
United states Government, in the Agricul- 
tural Department at Washington, D. C. 
Alter an active and useful life, he died in 
Philadelphia in 1890. His wife, Mary 
Shaffner, was born in Harrisburg. and died 
in that city in 1865. Their children are: 
Ellen, wife of Jesse S. Butts, of Newport, 
Perry county; Calvin : Sarah, wife <>f Francis 
Wilcox, of San Diego. Cal., and Mary, wife 
of Ritzel Shattick, of Philadelphia. 

Calvin Etter was reared on the farm in 



Perry county. He had the opportunities, 
which the common schools afford the busy 
farmer's boy, and his subsequent life shows 
that he made good use of them. The close 
of school days found him well-informed, 
disciplined and prepared for practical work. 
His natural tastes led him to prefer agri- 
cultural pursuits in early life, but at the 
age of twenty he forsook the farm and be- 
came clerk in a general store. Here he 
spent several years, becoming in that time 
thoroughly familiar with mercantile busi- 
ness. 

In 1864 he began business on his own ac- 
count in Harrisburg. He opened a grocery 
store, and has since been in the business 
since that date. With perhaps one excep- 
tion, he is now the oldest grocer in the city. 
Mr. Etter has a combination of the qualities 
which make a successful merchant. He is 
systematic and methodical, able to lay out 
liis plans and to give assiduous attention 
to the minutest details in their execution. 
He is alert and enterprising, and always 
abreast of the times. Always having his 
own business well in hand, he has time, as 
well as inclination, to interest himself in so- 
cial and general movements intended to 
promote the development ami growth of the 
city. In social life he is a model gentleman, 
mndest and always approachable. His suc- 
cess, the result of his accurate judgment, 
keen insight and absolute adherence to prin- 
ciple, is as honorable as it is large and envi- 
able. 

Mr. Etter was married in Harrisburg, in 
April, 1865, to Helen Marshall, of Perry 
county. They have had four children, one 
of whom died in infancy. Their living 
children are: Carrie, wife of Harry S. Kelly, 
wood and coal dealer, a sketch of whom ap- 
pears elsewhere in this volume; Charlie 
Ross, a salesman in his father's store, and 
Mary Grace. 

Mr. Etter is a Republican. He has repre- 
sented the Fifth ward of Harrisburg in 
common council for two terms, and in se- 
lect council one term. 



May, John K., grocer, was born in York 
county, Pa.. December I s . L837. He is a 
son of Jacob and Mary Ann (Kirk) May, 

natives of York county, and farmers. He 
was reared in York county ami educated in 
the public schools. He learned bricklaying. 
— ] — «,; — t^. 1 1.,,., i-Km™ in 1862 worked 

U this date 



and coming to Harrisburg in 1 
as a journeyman until lis "J. > 



634 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYCL OP EDI A 



he and Thomas Stephenson entered into 
partnership as contractors; this partnership 
continued one year. In 1873 he formed a 
partnership with George E. Reed, which 
lasted until Mr. Reed's death, in 1893. They 
erected many fine public and private build- 
ings in the city. In 1877 they engaged in 
the grocery business on Market street, near 
Third. In 1886 they began the manufac- 
ture of pressed and hand-made brick, 
and do an extensive business in that line. 
In 1878 Mr. May went into the retail coal 
business, in which he has since continued. 
He was also, from 1872 to 1890, in the retail 
cigar and tobacco trade. 

He is a stockholder in the Harrisburg 
Foundry and Machine Works, the East Har- 
risburg Passenger Railway Company, the 
Harrisburg Trust Company, the Harrisburg 
Shoe Company, and the Capital City Shoe 
Company, of Harrisburg. He is active in 
the Republican party. He served six con- 
secutive years on the school board, repre- 
senting the Ninth ward. 

He was married in 1865 to Miss Elizabeth, 
daughter of William Mahon, of Harrisburg. 
They have five children : Margaret, Mrs. 
Cornelius Shope, of Harrisburg; Nora, Mrs. 
William Stroup, of Reading, Pa.; Charles, 
Theodore, and Queenie. Mr. May and his 
family attend the Lutheran church. 



Umberger, Henry L., was born in East 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
February 16, 1842. He is a son of John and 
Margaret (Lingle) Umberger, both deceased. 
His father was a native of Dauphin county; 
his mother of Berks. The greater part of 
their lives was passed in Dauphin county. 
Of their ten children, six are living : Obadiah, 
of Lewistown, Mifflin county, Pa.; John, of 
Hoernerstown, Pa.; Margaret, wife of Wil- 
liam S. Hettrick, of Harrisburg; Hannah, 
wife of Daniel Bennewitz, of East Hanover 
township ; Henry L., and Michael, residing 
near Taylorsville, 111. 

Henry L. Umberger attended the public 
schools of his native township, but his school 
days were cut short by the necessity of an 
early beginning of efforts to earn a livelihood. 
He was engaged in various occupations be- 
fore he reached manhood. He learned the 
milling business and was occupied in it 
for eight years; four years of this time he 
operated his own mill in East Hanover town- 
ship. About 1877 he removed to Harris- 



burg, and in 1879 established his present 
business. 

In February, 1862, he enlisted in company 
K, Ninety-third regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, and served eighteen months. Dur- 
ing this time he, with his regiment, partici- 
pated in the battles of the Wilderness and 
Spottsylvania Court House. In the latter 
engagement he was wounded in the left leg 
and conveyed to the hospital. At the close 
of the war he was discharged from the hos- 
pital and returned to East Hanover. 

He was married at the Union Water 
Works, Lebanon county, to Miss Catherine, 
daughter of Joseph and Polly Sheffey, the 
former deceased, the latter still living at the 
advanced age of eighty and residiug in Leba- 
non. Of their three children, one died an 
infant; the others are : Ellen and Katie. In 
political views Mr. Umberger is a staunch 
Republican. He and his family attend the 
Reformed church. 



Miller, William F., was born in York, 
Pa., October 25, 1842. He is a son of Daniel 
and Sarah (Beck) Miller, who were both na- 
tives of York county. His father was a well- 
known stock dealer in York county, where 
he spent the greater part of his life. The 
family consisted of eight children, four of 
whom still survive, namely : Henry O, a 
stock dealer, residing in Pittsburgh, Pa.; 
William F., Robert, and Sarah. William F. 
was educated in the public schools of his 
native place, and after completing his edu- 
cation he learned the trade of a printer. In 
1861 he removed to Harrisburg, where he 
worked at his trade for the following twenty 
years. He subsequently held a position in 
the Harrisburg postoffice for six years, and 
in 1887 he engaged in the grocery business. 
He was married, in Harrisburg, November 2, 
1871, to Cavilla Stroh, daughter of Benjamin 
and Priscilla Stroh, who were among the 
early settlers of Dauphin county. There 
have been born to them four children, one 
of whom died in infancy. The children 
living are : Irene O, Bradford, and Mabel. 
Mr. Miller is a member of the Ancient Order 
of United Workmen and Artisans. In po- 
litical views he is a Republican. He and 
his family attend the Lutheran church. He 
is a liberal and public-spirited citizen. 



Smith, Wilson 0., grocer, was born in 
Lower Allen township, Cumberland county, 
Pa., April 21, 1843 ; son of John A. and 



DACI'IIIX COUNTY. 



635 



Barbara (Sherbane) Smith, both deceased. 
The parents were both natives of Cumber- 
land county, where they spent their lives. 
The father died at the advanced age of 
eighty-four years. They had seven children, 
four of whom are living: Catherine, widow 
of the late George Oyster; John A., Henry 
H., and Wilson 0. By a subsequent mar- 
riage there is one son living, George Smith. 
Wilson 0. received his primary education 
in the public schools of his native township 
and subsequently attended the White Hall 
Academy in Cumberland county. 

In March, 1861, he enlisted in company 
II, Seventh Pennsylvania volunteer reserve, 
which became the Thirty -sixth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and participated 
in the following battles: Dramsville, Va., 
Mecbanicsville, Gaines' Mills, Charles City, 
New Market Cross Roads, Malvern Hill, 
Plains of Manassas, Second Bull Run, South 
Mountain, Antietam and Fredericksburg, in 
which last named battle he received a gun- 
shot wound in the breast and was confined 
in the hospital at Washington, D. C, for 
three months, from which he was discharged 
as convalescent June 29, 1863, and was at- 
tached to company B, Fourth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, as second lieuten- 
ant, and subsequently promoted to first lieu- 
tenant. He served in this regiment and 
position three months and was then detailed 
on recruiting service at Harrisburg for six 
months, at the expiration of which time he 
was promoted to captain and attached to 
company I), Two Hundred and First Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, in which position he 
served until the close of the war, being 
mustered out in 1865. After his discharge 
he returned to Cumberland county, where 
he remained at home one year, and in 
.the spring of 1866 came to Harrisburg. 
lie became salesman in the dry goods 
store of Bowman & Co., and afterwards was 
emploved in the same capacity by Coover 
A- Co.! until July 26, ISSN, at" which date 
he embarked in the grocery business on 
his own account, in which he has been con- 
tinuously and successfully engaged since 
that date. Mr. Smith was married, in Har- 
risburg, December 16, 1869, to Miss Ange- 
line A. Porter, daughter of James and Isa- 
bella (Campbell) Porter, to whom have been 
bom thnc children : Romaine A.. J. Porter, 
and Isabella J. Mr. Smith is prominent in 
the Masonic fraternity, holding membership 



in the Mechanicsburg Lodge, No. 302, Perse- 
verance Chapter, No. 21, and Pilgrim Com- 
mandery, No. 11, of Harrisburg ; also of Har- 
risburg Council, R. S. E. and S. Masters; 
and of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, 1. 0. 0. 
F., Harrisburg. He is also an active mem- 
ber of Post No. 58, G. A. R,, of the Union 
Veteran Legion and of the Improved Order 
of Heptasophs. In his political views he is 
a staunch Republican. He and his family 
are members of the Pine Street Prebyterian 
church. 



Ruby, Chaklks W., grocer, was born at 
Duncannon, Pa., August 22, 1813 ; son of 
Daniel and Rebecca Ruby, both deceased. 
The father was a native of Perry county, 
where he spent his entire life. In his earlier 
life he owned and operated a large tannery, 
and later engaged in the iron business at 
Duncannon, where he died. The mother 
was born in Lancaster and after her mar- 
riage resided in Perry county until her death. 
They had four children, three of whom are 
living: Margaret, wife of Col. Roswell Shortel, 
residing in Youngstown, Ohio; Mary, widow 
of Irwin Chisholm, residing in Harrisburg, 
and Charles W.; Augustus, died at Youngs- 
town, Ohio, in 1S67, from the effects of dis- 
ease incurred while serving in the defense of 
his country. Charles W. was reared in his 
native town and received his education in 
the public schools. He then learned the 
trade of nail manufacturing with the Dun- 
cannon Iron and Nail Manufacturing Com- 
pany, and was in the service of the com- 
pany for over forty years. In March. 1S89, 
he removed to Harrisburg and embarked in 
the grocery business, in which he has been 
engaged since that time. In 1863 he en- 
listed in company K, Third Pennsylvania 
volunteer artillery, in which he served for 
twenty-six months, and was discharged at 
Philadelphia, in 1865, after which he re- 
turned to his native town and resumed work 
at his trade. Mr. Ruby was married in 
Wheatfield township, Perry county, March 
25, 1870, to Anna J. Ebersole, daughter of 
John and Susanna Ebersole, both deceased. 
There have been born to them three chil- 
dren : John I., Maud H., and .Mary ML .Mr. 
Ruby is an active member of Lieut. William 
Allison Post,(i. A. P.. Duncannon, Pa. In 
politics he is a Republican. He ami his 
family attend the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



636 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Enders, I. T., grocer, 1801 North Sixth 
street, Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Enders, 
Jackson township, August 31, 1843. He is 
a son of George and Susanna (Fetterboff) 
Enders. The first of the family to settle in 
the county was John Enders, a German, who 
entered a tract of land in Jackson township, 
and became one of the prominent farmers of 
his day. He died at the age of forty-six and 
his son John succeeded to his estate. George 
Enders, son of the last-named John Enders, 
was born in 1809, and died in Jackson 
township. He was a prominent member 
of the United Brethren church, and one of 
its trustees. He served as supervisor of his 
township. His wife died in 1882. They 
had sixteen children : William H., of Upper 
Paxton ; Uriah F., of Penbrook ; George W., 
of Enders; Samuel E., of Enders; I. T.; 
Israel, 0., of Fisherville ; Sarah, Mrs. Joseph 
Seiders, of Williamstown ; Daniel N., of 
Williamstown ; Benjamin F., of Enders; 
Levi J., M. D., of Williamstown ; Isabella, 
Mrs. Joseph Knouff, of Enders ; Edward A., 
of Harrisburg ; four children are deceased. 
I. T. Enders was reared and educated in 
Jackson township. He was occupied in 
farming until about 1883, when he removed 
to Harrisburg and engaged in the grocery 
business, in which he has since continued. 
He enlisted, February 24, 1864, in company 
E, Ninth regiment, Pennsylvania, cavalry, 
and served until the close of the war. He 
is a Republican. He served two terms as 
justice of the peace, resigning at the end of 
the second term to remove to Harrisburg. 
He was elected poor director in 1879, and 
re-elected in 1882. In 1894 he was elected 
to the board of control of Harrisburg, and 
has since served as a member of that body. 
He is chairman of the committee on sup- 
plies, and is also on the teachers committee. 
He belongs to the I. 0. 0. F. 

He was married in 1867 to Miss Mary E., 
daughter of James Bowman, of Jackson 
township. He has three children : Rev. 
Emanuel A., pastor of the Presbyterian 
church, of Conway, Iowa, graduate of Omaha 
Theological Seminary ; Minnie N, wife of 
Harry E. Whitmoyer, of Harrisburg, and 
Robert A. Mr. Enders and his wife are 
members of the Reily Street United Breth- 
ren church. 



the late John and Rebecca (Martin) Stewart. 
The Stewart family are of Scotch ancestry, 
the grandfather of John M. having been 
born in Scotland. He emigrated to this 
country at an earty date and finally settled 
in Cumberland county, Pa., where he reared 
his family, and was prominently identified 
with the early history of the county. He 
was a farmer and a leading and progressive 
man among farmers and men of business. 
The mother was of Irish descent, and was 
born in Shiremanstown, Cumberland county. 
She now resides at Newville, Cumberland 
county. Their children are as follows : 
Jennie H, widow of the late Hugh Gamble, 
residing in Harrisburg ; John M.; Carrie R.; 
Laura C, wife of J. B. Livingston, of Har- 
risburg; Margaret L.; Nettie, wife of William 
Nevin ; Susan E., died December 9, 1895, 
wife of James M. Early, who died January 
6, 1896, and Mary E., died April 25, 1881. 

John M. Stewart grew to manhood in his 
native township. Farm work demanded so 
much of his time that he could only partially 
avail himself of school advantages. He was 
occupied in farming until 1871, when he re- 
moved to Harrisburg. He was salesman in 
the hardware business for four years and in 
the grocery business for seven years. Since 
June,' 1892, he has successfully conducted 
the grocery business on his own account. 

He was married in Philadelphia, Septem- 
ber, 1876, to Mary A., daughter of the late 
Johnston and Sarah Stevenson. They have 
no children. Mr. Stewart is an active mem- 
ber of the Knights of St. John and Malta, No. 
106, of Harrisburg, and of the Junior Order 
United American Mechanics. His political 
views have always been Republican, but he 
votes for men rather than for party. He and 
his wife are members of the Covenant Pres- 
byterian church. 



Stewart, John M., grocer, Harrisburg, 
was born in Mifflin township, Cumberland 
county, Pa., October 9, 1844. He is a son of 



Althouse, Reuben H, grocer, was born 
in Berks county, Pa., February 3, 1845 ; son 
of Benjamin and Rebecca (Herbine) Alt- 
house, natives of Berks county. The father 
came to Dauphin count}' in the spring of 
1845, and engaged in farming in Susque- 
hanna township. He was a prominent 
member of the Reformed church. His 
death occurred April 16, 1861, and that of 
his wife in 1880. They reared three chil- 
dren : Reuben H; Ella, unmarried, and 
George B., of Philadelphia. Reuben H, 
was reared on the farm in Susquehanna 
township and attended the district school of 



DA l I'll IX COUNTY. 



637 



the locality. After the death of his father 
he conducted the farm, and also took up tin- 
dairy business, in which he continued four- 
teen years. In 1881 he removed to Bedford, 
Monroe county, Mich., and was there en- 
gaged in farming for seven years, after 
which he returned to Harrisburg, and in 
1888 established his present business. He 
holds membership in the Odd Fellows fra- 
ternity, and in the Knights of the Golden 
Eagle. In politics he is a Republican, and 
while in Michigan, served six years as a 
school trustee. Mr. Althouse was married, 
in 1S66, to Miss Frances Rudy, daughter of 
Joseph Rudy, of Harrisburg, and to them 
have been born eight children: Frank, drug- 
gist, in Harrisburg; Carrie; Harry B.; R. 
Edward, with his brother R. H.; Frances 
(Mrs. George Swab), of Harrisburg; Joseph, 
Ella and Delanor. Mr. Althouse is a mem- 
ber of the German Reformed church. 



Langlotz, Martin, merchant, was born in 
the province of Saxony, September 9, 1846. 
He is a son of John and Elizabeth Langlotz. 
His parents came to this country when he 
was nine years old, and, after living one year 
in Boston, removed to Allegany county, ' 
Md., where they spent the remainder of their 
lives. They are both deceased. They had 
nine children. 

Martin Langlotz spent his early life in the 
Maryland home and attended the free schools 
of his adopted country. In 1872 he removed 
to Harrisburg, where for the past twenty-four 
years he has conducted a grocery, provision 
and notion store. Amid the numerous 
changes which have taken place among the 
businessmen and firms of Harrisburg, Mr. 
Langlotz has held steadily on his way. His 
continuance in business with growing suc- 
cess demonstrates his business ability and 
the solidity of his character. He was mar- 
ried, in York county, Pa., to Katherine, 
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. II. II. Boesch, 
natives of Germany, and residents of York, 
Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Langlotz have had two 
children, one of whom died in infancy. The 
living child is Bransby F. In political views 
Mr. Langlotz holds with the Democratic 
party. He attends the Lutheran church. 

LlKEN, THOMAS, was born in ('olerainc, 
county Derry, Ireland, February 7. I s 17. 
He is a son of the late Thomas and Letitia 
(Hill) Liken. ; The elder Thomas Likjen was 
also a native of Coleraine. When a young 



man, before railroads wen.' constructed, he 
was engaged in carrying freight to Belfast 
by dray. He afterwards became a whole- 
sale dealer in provisions, ami in his later 
years bad his son Oliver as his partner in 
thebusiness. His political view- were Demo- ' 
cratic. He was a member of the Presbyte- 
rian church. He died at the advanced age 
of eighty-two years. His wife, Letitia Hill, 
also a native of Coleraine, died at the age of 
forty-three. They had nine children, of 
whom seven are living: William, John, 
Thomas, Margaret, Matilda, Mary and 
Oliver. 

Thomas Liken, the subject of this sketch, 
was the youngest of the family. He attended 
the schools of his native town until he was 
thirteen years old, and received a very fair 
education. In 1860 he took a position as 
assistant clerk in the Coleraine market. 
After this he was employed by two Scotch- 
men, George and James Rogerson, in their 
grocery store. He remained with them one 
year, and then accepted a place with Mr. 
Irvin in the business of shipping butter and 
eggs. He was in this situation for a num- 
ber of years. His next employment was 
with Mr. Huey, shipper of all kinds of grain, 
with whom he remained for a few years. 

In 1S67 he came to America to visit his 
brothers, who were in business as bakers and 
confectioners. His brother, John H, admit- 
ted him to partnership, which lasted several 
years. Upon its dissolution he went to New 
York City and established himself in the 
grocery business, which he carried on for a 
number of years. At the earnest solicitation 
of J. A. Slentz, of Harrisburg, dealer in Hour 
and feed, he closed out his business in New 
York anil returned to Harrisburg as book- 
keeper and salesman for Mr. Slentz. At the 
end of six months he boughl out thebusi- 
ness of Mr. Slentz and removed to his pres- 
ent location, 1322 North Sixth street, where 
he now deals in groceries, confectionery and 
Hour and feed, lb- is successful in busim 
and is highly esteemed by all who know him 
as a man of worth and enterprise. Mr. 
Liken is director in various associations in 
Harrisburg. lb- is chairman of the build- 
ing committee of Bloomington, III., and i< 
very highly regarded by the committee. In 
[relaud he was connected with several so< 
ties. Hispolitical views are Democratic. 

Mi-. Liken has been twice married. By 
the first marriage he had two children: 
Mary, who died at the age of lour months 



638 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and six days, and William EL, who died, 
aged two months and thirteen days. Mr. 
Liken's second wife was Miss Eliza, daughter 
of Casper H. and Mary L. Dustman, of Get- 
tysburg, Pa. He is a consistent member of 
Pine Street Presbyterian church and be- 
longs to James McCormick's Bihle class. In 
his native country Mr. Liken taught a large 
Bible class. 



Keeney, Martin L., grocer, Harrisburg, 
was born in Tuscarora township, Bradford 
county, Pa., August 23, 1848. He is a son 
of the late Luther and Arietta (Camp) Keeney. 
He was brought up on the farm and edu- 
cated at the district schools in his township. 
He was engaged until 1892 in farming in 
Tuscarora township, where he still owns a 
well cultivated farm. In 1892 he sought a 
change of residence and occupation. He re- 
linquished farming and came to Harrisburg, 
and in January, 1896, embarked in the 
grocery business in that city. 

Mr. Keeney was married, October 15, 1873, 
to Isabella C, daughter of William and Mary 
(Watson) Bergstresser, referred to in another 
place in this volume. They have one son, 
William Luther. 

Mr. Keeney has served as town commis- 
sioner, school director, and inspector of Tus- 
carora township. He is a member of Wyom- 
ing Lodge, No. 238, K. of P., of Wyoming 
county, Pa. In his political views he is a 
Republican. He and his wife are members 
of Zion Lutheran church. 



Clement Studebaker spent his youth in 
his native township. He attended the public 
schools until he reached the age of fourteen. 
In 1865 he removed with his parents to 
Mechanicsburg, Pa., where he completed his 
education in the Cumberland Valley Insti- 
tute of that place. He first made an engage- 
ment as traveling salesman, which continued 
until 1872. In February of that year he 
engaged in the grocery business in Harris- 
burg, which he has successfully conducted 
since that time. He is one of the solid busi- 
ness men of the city. 

He was married in Harrisburg, January 
9, 1887, to Margaret, daughter of George W. 
and Sarah (Ebersole) Barnes. They have no 
children. Mr. Studebaker belongs to the 
Harrisburg Board of Trade. He is an active 
member of the Heptasophs. In political 
views he is a straight Republican. He and 
his wife attend the Pine Street Presbyterian 
church. 



Studebaker, Clement, was born in Fair- 
view township, York county, Pa., December 
26, 1851. He is a son of the late Jacob and 
Nancy (Mohler) Studebaker. Jacob Stude- 
baker was born in Adams county, Pa. He 
was a farmer. For some years after his mar- 
riage he lived in Cumberland county, Pa., 
but returned to York county and spent the 
remainder of his life. He died in Fairview 
township, York county. July 20, 1855. He 
married Nancy Mohler, of Cumberland 
county, who survives him and resides in Har- 
risburg. One of their nine children died 
in infancy. The others are: Daniel, died 
July 12, 1855; Sarah, wife of Dr. Simon 
Landis, of Lancaster, Pa., died May 29, 1854 ; 
John, residing in Minneapolis, Minn.; Eliz- 
abeth, wife of Samuel Flickinger, of Harris- 
burg ; Henry, died March 8. 1867 ; Nancy, 
Harrisburg; Jacob, living in Salt Lake 
City, and Clement. 



Orth, Fred. J., was born in Harrisburg, 
January 6, 1854; son of Leonard and Bar- 
bara (Schlayer) Orth. Both parents are na- 
tives of Germany and came in their child- 
hood to Harrisburg. The father was a car- 
penter, and worked at his trade until his 
death in 1879. He was a member of the 
Lutheran church, and an active worker in 
all branches of religious and benevolent 
enterprises. The mother is still living and 
in good health, at the age of seventy-seven 
years, residing in the farmhouse in which 
she lived for forty-five years. They had 
eleven children. Those living are: Henry, 
wife of Christian Morganthaler, of Harris- 
burg; Charles; Margaret; J. Fred. and Henry, 
twins, the latter secretary to the superin- 
tendent of the Danville Insane Asylum ; 
George L.; Rebecca, a teacher in the Harris- 
burg public schools; and J. Andrew, postal 
clerk on the Pennsylvania railroad. J. Fred, 
was reared and educated in his native city, 
where he spent his life. When thirteen years 
of age he began business as a clerk in a 
general store, and after four years of this ser- 
vice became an apprentice in the trade of 
printer in the State printing office, where 
he worked for eleven years. In 1884 he em- 
barked in the grocery business, which he 
has conducted for eleven years with gratify- 
ing success, securing a large and profitable 
trade. Mr. Orth was married, in Harris- 
burg, March 23, 1881, to Miss Nellie Spicer, 
daughter of Charles A. and Nancy Spicer, to 



DAcnnx COUNTY. 



G39 



whom has been born one son, Charles L. 
Mr. Orth is a member of the Heptasophs, 
and in his political views is a Prohibitionist. 
He is a member of the Salem Reformed 
church, in which he is an elder and the 
superintendent of the Sunday-school. 



Fisher, Wesley, grocer, was born in 
Yocumtown, York county, Pa., May 23, 
1855 ; son of Martin and Leah (Spangler) 
Fisher, natives of that county. The father 
was a farmer in York county, and was of 
German ancestr}'. The family has lived in 
the Fishing Creek Valley over a hundred 
years. David Fisher, their ancestor, was 
one of the original owners of the canal. 
Wesley was reared in York county and edu- 
cated in the township schools and in the 
Millersville State Normal School. Fie spent 
one year in California, but not being pleased 
with the country returned to Harrisburg and 
clerked in a grocery store. In 1879 he es- 
tablished a business in that line of his own on 
Ninth street. He purchased the property of 
George W. Brinton,on the corner of Pace and 
Dock streets, where he conducted business 
five years, after which he sold the property 
to the Pennsylvania Railroad Company and 
went to Canton, Ohio, where he engaged in 
business. He returned the same year and 
established himself in his present location, 
No. 1*28 Dock street, and has since continued 
in business at that place. Mr. Fisher is a 
Republican and was elected member of the 
school board from the First ward in 1892, 
and elected for a second term to the same 
office in 1895, serving in the board on the 
finance and teachers committees. He is a 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. & 
A. M.: Perseverance Chapter, No. 21; Pilgrim 
Commandery, No. 11, and Lulu Temple, of 
Philadelphia; and is also a member of John 
Harris ( louncil, Jr. (). U. A. M.,of Harrisburg. 
Mr. Fisher was married, in 1884, to Miss Lottie 
Winand, daughter of William Winand, of 
Harrisburg. Their children are: Daisy W.. 
Mar^' E., Charles Wesley, Clarence, deceased. 
Pearl E.,and Clyde E. The family are mem- 
bers of the Vine street Methodist Episcopal 
church, and Mr. Fisher has served on the 
board of stewards and as superintendent 
and assistant superintendent of the Sunday- 
school. 



felfinger, the former a native of Dauphin, 
and the latter a native of Lebanon count} - , 
of German ancestry. The father was a cab- 
inet maker and noted for his superior work- 
manship. The parents removed to Harris- 
burg in 1859, and were continuous residents 
of the city until their death. They had 
thirteen children, three of whom died in 
childhood, five died shortly after reaching 
maturity and five are living: Catherine, 
wife of W. B. Allen, residing in Martinsville, 
Clark county. 111.; Mary, wife of Benjamin 
Brightbill, residing in Harrisburg; Annie, 
widow of the late John Belford, residing in 
Renovo, Pa.; David H., and Edward A. Ed- 
ward A. was reared to manhood in Harris- 
burg and received his education in the city 
schools. He began business for himself, 
when he was twelve years old, as a newsboy 
and subsequently learned the trade of 
printer in the office of B. F. Meyers. After 
completing his apprenticeship he worked 
four years as a journeyman in the State 
printing office and then relinquished his 
trade and on February 19, 1881, embarked 
in the grocery business, in which he has 
been successfull}' engaged for fifteen years, 
having for the past three years occupied his 
new and convenient quarters. Mr. Heffel- 
finger was married in Harrisburg, August 
15, 1878, to Sarah E. Garverich, daughter of 
Eliasand Rebecca (Orth) Garverich, to whom 
have been born two children: Edna Ger- 
trude and Ruth Minerva. In his political 
views he is a Republican and has served on 
the school board. He is a member of Rob- 
ert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. efc A. M. He 
and his wife are members of Christ Lutheran 
church, of which he is a trustee and leader 
of the choir. 



Hepfelpinger, Edward A., grocer, was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa., August 18, 1856; 

son of David and Maria (Auginbaugh) Hef- 



Harris, Samuel H., grocer, Harrisburg, 

was born near Duncannon, Perry county, 
Pa., December 23, 1855. He is a son of ( !as- 
tleberry and Catherine (Cams) Harris. His 
parents were born in Perry county, and were 
of Scotch and Irish ancestry. The father 
was a prosperous farmer: he died October 
25, 1879, aged seventy-two. His wife sur- 
vives him, and resides on the homestead 
farm in Perry county; she was born Janu- 
ary 10, 1820. They had six children, four 
of whom are living: (1) Mary J., horn Sep- 
tember I, 1N40, wife of George K. Jones, of 
Harrisburg; they were married in Duncan- 
non, December 24. 1872, and have two chil- 
dren. Arthur, born October 29, 1873, died 



640 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



June 30, 1891, and Burt Andrews, born Julv 
15, 1876; (2) Gainor S.j born November 24, ■ 
1848, died December 24, 1889 ; (3) Hannah 
A., bora February 2, 1851, widow of the late 
George Lickle, of Perry county ; they were 
married in Bloomfield, Perry county, and 
have three children, Clara Jane, George Cas- 
key, and Chester Harris ; (4) Samuel H; (5) 
David C, born September 13, 1859, retail 
shoe dealer of Duncannon ; he married Miss 
Carrie Froehlich, December 27, 1892 ; they 
have one child, Mabel F., born March 27, 
1896; (6) a son who died in infancy, un- 
named. This Harris family is supposed to 
be descended from the founder of Harris- 
burg. 

Samuel H. Harris was reared a farmer 
boy in a comfortable home, enjoying the ad- 
vantages of a good district school during 
winter months. He was engaged in farm- 
ing until he was nineteen. He learned car- 
pentry, and followed his trade until 1888. 
Since April 1 of that year he has been in his 
present business. 

He was married, in Duncannon, January 
14, 1886, to Gertrude E., daughter of John 
and Margaret E. (Thompson) Beck, born in 
Luthersburg, Clearfield county, Pa., August 
9,1868. They have three children: Clar- 
ence D., born February 2, 1887; Merle 
Francis, February 25, 1892; and Ethel 
Kathryn, January 9, 1895. 

Mr. Harris is liberal in his political views. 
He and his wife are members of the Cove- 
nant Presbyterian church. 

John Beck, the father of Mrs. Harris, was 
bora in Centre county, Pa., May 7, 1824, and 
is of German ancestry. He was an under- 
taker and a prominent resident of Luthers- 
burg for many years ; but for the past twelve 
years he has been an honored resident of 
Perry county. His wife, Margaret Thomp- 
son, was born in Clearfield county, Septem- 
ber 25, 1829, and died in Luthersburg, where 
she had spent her life, October 9, 1874. They 
had five children, three of whom are living : 
Boyd Quigle ; Clarissa A., wife of Stewart 
Council, died March 11, 1877, leaving five 
children; Mary Ellen, died in infancy; 
George W., and Gertrude Emma, Mrs. Har- 
ris. 

Palmer, Lafayette, was born in Golds- 
boro, York county, Pa., December 13, 1857. 
He is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Wire) 
Palmer, both deceased. Both were natives 
of York county, and of German ancestry. 



They had ten children, of whom seven are 
living: Susan, wife of John Herr; George, 
William, John, Jeannette, Michal Lucinda, 
and Lafayette. 

Lafayette Palmer spent his early life in his 
native town. He attended the public school 
during the winter months and worked in his 
father's cooper shop in the summer. At the 
age of sixteen he entered the blast furnaces 
at Newport, Pa., and filled the position of 
stationary engineer for two years. During 
the next two years he was employed as engi- 
neer at the Pennsylvania Steel Works, Steel- 
ton, Pa. He then went to Pittsburgh, Pa., 
and assisted in building the Braddock Blast 
Furnaces ; for two years he was employed in 
these works as engineer. From Pittsburgh 
he went to Albany and was employed as 
engineer in the blast furnaces at that place 
for eighteen months. During the four years 
following he was again employed at the Steel 
Works, Steelton, at frog and switch making. 
He was employed at the same work at Car- 
lisle, Pa., for the next three years, after which 
he again returned to Steelton and worked for 
one year at frog and switch making for the 
Pennsylvania Steel Works. In 1888 he aban- 
doned the shop and went into the grocery 
business in Harrisburg, and has successfully 
conducted the business since that date. 

He was married in Harrisburg, October 
25, 1883, to Florence, daughter of Jacob and 
Mary Galager, of Harrisburg. Of their four 
children, two died in infancy; the survivors 
are Amelia B. and Ruth. 

Mr. Palmer is the inventor of several pat- 
ented articles, among which is a funnel and 
measure combined ; another is a boiler tube 
cleaner; and another, a frog for railroad 
tracks. 

He is a member of State Capital Lodge, No. 
70, I. 0. 0. F.; of Egyptian Commandery, 
No. 114, K. of M., and of Harrisburg Coun- 
cil, Jr. 0. U. A. M. His political views are 
Republican. He and his family attend the 
Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Palmer 
stands high in the estimation of the general 
public. By energy and perseverance he has 
built up a large and steadily increasing busi- 
ness. 



Hutton, George J., grocer, was bora in 
Harrisburg, Pa., June 17, 1858. He is a son 
of Franklin A. and Mary E. (Utz) Hutton. 
His father was a regular graduated physician 
and practiced in Harrisburg. He went to 
Brazil in 1868, at the request of the Brazilian 



DACi'inx corxrr. 



641 



government, to treat yellow fever patients. 
He died in that country in 1S72. George J. 
Hutton was educated in the public schools. 
He found employment in an iron mill. In 
1S7S he enlisted in the regular army of the 
United Stales and served for live years. He 
was stationed in Washington and Idaho Ter- 
ritories. He was discharged from the army 
with the rank of quartermaster sergeant. 
Daring his term he served four years and 
five months as a non-commissioned officer. 
In 1883 he returned to Harrisburg and en- 
gaged in the grocery business, in which lie 
has since continued. He is Republican in 
politics. In 1892 he was elected to the board 
of water commissioners and was re-elected 
in 1895. lie is a member of the Knights of 
Malta and of the Royal Arcanum, He was 
married, in Middletown, December 9, 1883, 
to Miss Ella S. Nagle, daughter of Emanuel 
Nagle, of Middletown, Pa. He has two 
children, George W. and James Nagle. His 
wife is a member of the Lutheran church. 



church. Mr. Fortney is a man of integrity 
and high moral character, as is evidenced 
by his high standing in business and social 
circles. 



Fortney, Sylvester T., was born in Mid- 
dletown, Dauphin county, Pa., June 23, 
1858. He is a son of the late Theodore 
Sylvester and Margaret P. (Walbom) Fort- 
ney. His parents were honored residents of 
Middletown until 1866. The} 7 then removed 
to Harrisburg, where the father died in 1875. 
Since 1893 the mother has resided in Youngs- 
town, Ohio. Their children are: Rufus C., 
residing in Youngstown; Sylvester T., John 
W , and Ethel E., residing in Youngstown. 

Sylvester T. Fortney was eight years old 
when his parents came to Harrisburg, and 
this city has ever since been his residence, 
lie was educated in the city schools and 
afterwards became a clerk in the grocery 
business. Subsequently he was in a gentle- 
man's furnishing store, and later still re- 
turned to the grocery business. In 18S3 he 
embarked in that business in connection 
with William A. Morehead, under the firm 
name of Fortney & Morehead. This part- 
nership was dissolved August 11, 1887, since 
which time Mr. Fortney has conducted the 
business entirely m his own interest. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, September 
14, 1893, to Lizzie I., daughter of Frank and 
Lavinia Putt.of Harrisburg. They have no 
children. lie is an active member of Hope 
Fire Company, No. 2, and also of Hie Fire- 
men's Beneficial Association. His political 
views are decidedly Democratic. He ami 
his wife attend the Pine Street Presbvterian 



Van Camp, William L., grocer, was born 
in Newport, Perry county, Pa., August 28, 
1858; son of the late James and Rebei 
(Potter) Van Camp. The parents were both 
natives of Perry county, the father having 
been born on the old Van Camp farm, on 
the banks of the Juniata river; the mother 
near Montgomery's Ferry. The father was 
a harness maker and was engaged in that 
occupation until his death, April 29, 1881. 
The mother is still living and resides in 
Harrisburg. Of their three children, Will- 
iam L. is the only one living, two having died 
in infancy. William L. attended the schools 
in his native county until he was twelve 
years old, when he came with his parents to 
Harrisburg, where he completed his educa- 
tion in the city high school and in the Har- 
risburg Business College. He worked in 
the store with his father until he was twenty- 
one years old. The three following years he 
was employed by the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, and on March 15, 1883, en- 
gaged in the grocery business for himself. 
He was married in Harrisburg, September 
26, 1889, to Miss Sarah Alice, daughter of 
Jeremiah H. and Elizabeth (Woodcock) 
Crownshield, born in Harrisburg, October 6, 
1865. They have no children. Mr. Van 
Camp is a member of Phoenix Lodge, No. 
59, K. of P.; Egpytian Commandery, No. 
114, K. of M., and of Capital City Council, 
No. 327, Jr. 0. U. A. M. In his political 
views Mr. Van Camp is a Republican. He 
and his wife attend the Messiah Lutheran 
church, of which Mrs. Van Camp is a mem- 
ber. 



Foerster, George, grocer, was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., September 16, 1858; son >>( 
George and Catherine (Klein) Foerster. The 
father was born in Bavaria, near Bogrenth, 
and the mother in Wurtemberg, Germany. 
The parents came to America and settled in 
Harrisburg. The father found his first em- 
ployment in this country with the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company, and subsequently 
worked in the present McCormick stone 
quarries. In I860 he engaged in the gro- 
cery business on Bare street, in which he 
continued until 187 s . and has since then 
been retired from active business. During 



642 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the war he served a short time with the 
State militia. In politics Mr. Foerster is a 
Democrat. His children are: Elizabeth, 
Mrs. F. W. Coover, of Harrisburg, and 
George. He is a member of St. Michael's 
German Lutheran church, in which he has 
been a trustee for many years. 

George received his education in the pub- 
lic schools and in Seller's Academy. He 
subsequently took a course in the State Nor- 
mal School at Millersville, from which he 
was graduated in 1878. He then taught 
school one term at Dorrence, Luzerne county, 
and two terms at Tabor, Pa. In 1881 he 
succeeded to his father's business, and in 
1888 moved to his present location, No. 
540 Race street. Mr. Foerster is a stock- 
holder in the Harrisburg Traction Company, 
and in the Harrisburg Trust Company, and 
is the president, and one of the organizers of 
the William Penn Building and Loan Asso- 
ciation. He is a member of Perseverance 
Lodge, F. & A. M. In jjolitics he is a 
Democrat. Mr. Foerster was married in 
1884, to Miss Annie P. Fairlamb, of Dela- 
ware county. They have two children : 
Annie K. and Frederick F. The family 
attend the Zion Lutheran church. 



board and borough assessor, of Goldsboro. 
He is connected with the Masonic and Odd 
Fellows fraternities at Goldsboro. He at- 
tends the Second Church of God. 



Good, George, grocer, was born in Fair- 
view township, York county, Pa., May 30, 
1859 ; son of the late Peter and Catherine 
(Zorger) Good. The parents spent their 
whole life in York county. The father was 
a farmer and died in 1891. The mother 
died in 1884. They had nineteen children, 
of whom fourteen are living: Sarah, Elias, 
Peter, John, Daniel, David, Caroline, Anna, 
Margaret, Jane, Emma, Matilda, Elizabeth 
and George. George, when he was eight 
years old, removed with his parents to the 
village of Yocumtown, in the same county, 
where he attended the public schools. He 
served for eight years as a clerk in a general 
store and in 1884 engaged in business for 
himself at Goldsboro, on the line of the 
Northern Central railroad, where he con- 
tinued successfully until 1893, when he re- 
moved to Harrisburg and lias since con- 
ducted business in this city. Mr. Good was 
married at Goldsboro to Lottie Burger, 
daughter of John and Charlotte Burger, of 
Goldsboro, to whom have been born three 
children, one of whom died in infancy. The 
survivors are Amy and George. Mr. Good 
is a Liberal in his political views and has 
served as councilman, member of the school 



Enders, Amos E., grocer, Harrisburg, was 
born in Jackson township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., February 21, 1861. He is a son of 
Uriah F. and Catherine (Warner) Enders. 
His grandparents on his mother's side are 
natives of Dauphin county, and are still 
living, at an advanced age, in Jefferson 
township, Dauphin county. His parents are 
natives of Jackson township and resided 
there until 1870, since which date they have 
been honored residents of Susquehanna 
township. They live at Penbrook, where 
they are quietly and peacefully spending the 
afternoon of life. Five of their seven chil- 
dren are living : Amos E. ; Alfred R., of 
Lower Paxton township ; Joseph S., of Hos- 
pers, Iowa ; Pierce W., and Cora May, resid- 
ing with her parents. 

Amos E. Enders, at nine years of age, re- 
moved with his parents to Penbrook, Sus- 
quehanna township. He was there educated 
in the public schools and completed his 
studies in the Lebanon Valley College. Af- 
terwards he was a teacher in the public 
schools of Susquehanna township for twelve 
years. On November 12, 1892, he engaged 
in his present business. 

He was married, in Harrisburg, Janu- 
ary 10, 1889, to Miss Katie, daughter of 
Henry and Sarah (Forney) Booser. They 
have two children: Violet B., born October 
9, 1891, and Esther May, born May 4, 1893. 

Mr. Enders served two terms as register 
and assessor of Susquehanna township. He 
is a member of Capital City Council, No. 327, 
Jr. 0. U. A M., and of Star of America Com- 
mandery, No. 113, K. of M. His political 
views are Republican. He and his wife at- 
tend the United Brethren church and the 
Church of God. 

Henry Booser, the father of Mrs. A. E. 
Enders, was born at Middletown, Dauphin 
county, February 9, 1842, a son of Louis and 
Peggy (Weaver) Booser, who both died dur- 
ing his childhood. He was a farmer boy 
until he was sixteen j'ears old, receiving a 
limited education in the public schools. On 
the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion 
he enlisted in company I, Ninety-third regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and served 
two years, and was discharged on account of 
disability. In July, 1864, he enlisted in the 



DACrUlN- COUNTY. 



C43 



Two Hundred and First regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, and served until the close 
of the war. He took part in the battles of 
Williamsburg and Fair Oaks, Va., and in 
the Seven Days' battle. When discharged 
from the army lie resumed his residence in 
Harrisburg and has for thirty years worked 
at his trade of shoemakingwith Forney Bros. 
He was married in Linglestown, Pa., in 
I860, to Sarah A., daughter of Henry and 
Sarah Forney, a sketch of whom appears 
elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. 
Booser have had live children, four of whom 
survive: Kate, wife of A. E. Enders; Harry 
W., Charles E., and Blaine A. Lydia F. 
died, aged three years. 



Gould, George W., grocer, Harrisburg, 
Pa., was born in Harrisburg, May 11, 1868. 
He is a son of Christian and Rebecca (Craig) 
Gould. Christian Gould was born in Car- 
lisle, Pa. He lived in Harrisburg for many 
years and was connected with the Philadel- 
phia and Reading railroad as yard dispatcher. 
For some years he has been retired from 
active business. He was twice married. Of 
the first marriage there was one daughter, 
Catherine, now wife of William Banks, of 
Harrisburg. His second wife, Rebecca Craig, 
was born in Columbia, Lancaster county, Pa. 
The only child of this marriage is George W. 

George W. Gould has resided in Harris- 
burg all his life. He was educated in the 
city schools, and afterwards became sales- 
man in a grocery house; this position he 
held for about two years. He was then for 
eight years in the employ of the Philadel- 
phia and Reading Railroad Company as 
brakeman, fireman and engineer. He was 
one year with the Pennsylvania railroad as 
brakeman. In this service he met with an 
accident which made the amputation of one 
leg necessary, and was consequently com- 
pelled to abandon railroad work. In 1893 
he engaged in the grocery business, which 
he still conducts with success. He was mar- 
ried, in Harrisburg September 20, 188S, to 
Frances, daughter of William and Mary 
Anderson, of Harrisburg. Mrs. Gould was 
born in Lancaster. Tliey have one daughter, 
Annie Rebecca. Mr. Gould is a member of 
Fulton Council, No. 35, 0. U. A. M., and St. 
John's Castle. No. 17, K. of M. C. He belongs 
to the Beneficial Society of the Pine Street 
Presbyterian church, which church lie and 
his wife attend. 



Hartman, Rupus A., grocer, was born in 
Mount Joy, Lancaster county, Pa., October 
29, 1869; son of George W. and Elizabeth 
M. (Durboraw) Hartman. He attended the 
public school of his native township and 
completed his education at I lie Gettysburg 
Normal School. He was for four years em- 
ployed as a teacher in the public schools of 
Adams and Lancaster counties, and in 1891 
removed to Harrisburg, where he was en- 
gaged as a salesman until 1893, at which 
date he embarked in his present business. 
He was married at Kingsdale, Adams 
county, in 1892, to Jennie Mehring, daughter 
of Samuel and Anna Mehring, by whom lie 
has one child, born January 31, 189G. Mr. 
Hartman is a member of Harrisburg Coun- 
cil, No. 106, O. U. A. M., and of the P. 0. S. 
of A. He is a Prohibitionist in politics and 
attends the Reformed church. 



Soei.l, John, butcher, was born in Mux- 
tone township, Berks county, Pa., July 1, 
1855. He is a son of John and Catherine 
(Kripp) Soell. John Soell was born in Ger- 
many, where he was brought up, educated 
and married. Fie learned carpentry, and 
pursued that calling both in Germany and 
America. His wife, Catherine Kripp, was 
also a native of Germany. After their 
marriage they emigrated to this country. 
They remained some time and then returned 
to Germany, where Mrs. Soell died. They 
had fourteen children, seven of whom are 
living: Lizzie, wife of Abraham Natli : 
Kate, wife of W. A. Bats; Barbara, wife of 
W. S. Krause ; Mary, wife of G. Higes, de- 
ceased ; Frederick; Louisa, wife of a Mr. 
Weaver, and John. 

John Soell, Jr., received only a very lim- 
ited education, having .attended the public 
school of Berks county only seven weeks. 
He accompanied his parents on their return 
to Germany, and spent two years in the old 
country, during which his mother died. 
After this event he returned to America 
with his brother. He reached Harrisburg 
with only eighteen cents in bis pocket, a 
stranger and friendless. In some way lie 
obtained employment as a laborer under 
Mr. Hanshaw, at the ear works, and held 
this place for two years ; lie was then pro- 
moted to the position of foreman, and served 
in this capacity for one year. Previous to 
his promotion he attended the night school 
on Walnut street, under Prof. Fd wards, for 
one winter. Desiring to learn a trade, he 



644 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



resigned his place as foreman in the car 
works and served an apprenticeship of three 
years at butchering with Mr. Jacob Olmer, 
at Pottsville, Pa. He worked at his trade 
there for some years and then returned to 
Harrisburg and worked a few months for 
Mr. Augustus Gohl. On March 28, 1892, Mr. 
Soell began business for himself. He opened 
a shop at 424 Walnut street, and continued 
there until April 1, 1895; he then removed 
to 428 Walnut street, where he is now car- 
rying on a large and profitable business. 
Mr. Soell was married, March 1, 1882, to 
Miss Christiana, daughter of Christopher 
and Catherine (Hersleman) Bink. They 
have no children. Mrs. Soell was born in 
1846. Her parents were both natives of 
Germany. Her father was a tinsmith, and 
was subsequently engaged in mercantile 
business. Her mother died at the advanced 
age of ninety-eight years. They had six 
children, three of whom are living : Bar- 
bara, wife of Willing Eling, deceased : 
Henry, and Christiana, Mrs. Soell. 



Roumfort, Charles E., bread and cracker 
baker, was born at Chestnut Hill, Philadel- 
phia, Pa., November 30, 1828. He is the 
son of Augustus L. and Mary M. (Kline) 
Roumfort. His early life was spent in 
Philadelphia, and bis education was received 
in the public schools of that city. After 
completing his education he learned baking 
and has made it his occupation throughout 
his life. In 1853 he removed to Harrisburg 
and established himself in business in which 
he was continuously and successfully en- 
gaged until March, 1896, when he sold out 
and retired. He was married, in Philadel- 
phia, to Elizabeth Haas, born at Chestnut 
Hill, daughter of Mathias and Malinda Haas. 
They have three children : Mary, wife of 
W. F. Kunkle, residing in Philadelphia ; 
Victorine M., wife of M. Coover, residing in 
Harrisburg, and Augustus L. 

Augustus L. Roumfort was born in Har- 
risburg, January 30, 1866. He took the 
regular course of instruction in the city 
schools and also in the Commercial College. 
His education ended, he at once became con- 
nected with his father in business, in which 
he was actively employed until his father's 
retirement from business. The elder Mr. 
Roumfort is a Democrat. The family at- 
tend the Episcopal church. 



Templar, Joseph E., deceased, was born 
in Wellington, England, December 1, 1837 ; 
son of Joseph and Anna (Hancock) Templar. 
He had only slender educational advantages, 
which he improved to the utmost, but se- 
cured only a limited education. He learned 
the trades of wool sorter and baker, and came 
to America in 1857, locating in Harrisburg. 
He was foreman for General Roumfort for 
seven years, after which he removed to Car- 
lisle, Pa., where he carried on a bakery for 
two years, and then embarked in the grocery 
business in Harrisburg, corner of Fourth and 
Walnut streets, which he conducted for six- 
teen years, removing in 1887 to Thirteenth 
and Market streets. He died February 16, 
1896. His political affiliation was with the 
Republican party, and he had always been a 
strong anti-slavery man and a warm friend 
of the colored race. Public office was not at- 
tractive to him, and he never accepted offi- 
cial positions, having served only on the elec- 
tion board. Mr. Templar was married to 
Miss Susan, daughter of Joseph D. Gallegher, 
of Harrisburg, by whom he had four chil- 
dren: Frank N., in hardware trade in Har- 
risburg; Harry W., printer, Harrisburg; 
Bertha, Mrs. Harry C. Young, Harrisburg, 
and IdaG. He was married, secondly, in 1876, 
to Miss Fannie M. Ferster, daughter of Ru- 
dolph Ferster, of Honey Brook, Chester 
county, Pa., by whom he had one child, Mary 
Alice. Mr. Templar was reared a Presbyte- 
rian, and first united with the Market Square 
Presbyterian church, but afterwards joined 
the Pine Street church of the same denomi- 
nation. He took an active interest in the 
Elder Street Presbyterian church, and was a 
teacher in the Sabbath-school many years. 



Butler, William A., baker, was born in 
Berkeley county, W. Va., July 28, 1852. He 
is a son of the late Dr. William H. and 
Sarah (Price) Butler. Dr. William H. But- 
ler was born in Berkeley county, W. Va., 
and was educated in his native county, 
where he also studied and practiced medi- 
cine. His wife, Sarah Price, was also born 
in Berkeley county, They had one son, 
William H. Dr. Butler died in 1862, and 
is survived by his wife, who resides with 
her son. William H. Butler, Jr., received a 
limited education, having attended the pub- 
lic schools of his native place until he was 
twelve years old, after which he worked for 
his mother for a time. Soon after leaving 



DAri'inx corxry. 



C45 



school he secured a position as brakeman 
on the Baltimore and Ohio railroad, which 
he held for one year. He was afterwards 
employed for four years, off and on, in the 
ore mines. In 1809 Mr. Butler came to 
Harrisburg, where he secured employment 
in the rolling mill at Lochiel, and remained 
there some time. After his marriage, he 
was employed as teamster for a few months, 
after which he engaged in husiness for him- 
self. He leased the restaurant, corner of 
Cowden street and Strawberry avenue, 
where he carried on business for five years. 
In 1S90 he removed to No. 418 Market 
street, and opened the Temperance Hotel, 
known as the Windsor House ; he con- 
ducted it with success until January, 1896, 
when he removed to No. 1409 North Third 
street, and established a first class bakery. 
In all that pertains to the baker's craft, Mr. 
Butler is a recognized authority, being well- 
informed in the details and general scope of 
the -business. Mr. Butler was married, xVpril 
27, 1873, to Miss Annie, daughter of Henry 
and Annie E. Wingert. They have four 
children : Minnie F. E., wife of John I. Pier- 
son ; Sarah K., Cora J., and Annie. Mr. 
Butler has been an active member of Lodge 
No. 68, I. 0. 0. F. for eight years. He is a 
Republican. The family are members of 
the First Baptist church, corner of Second 
and Pine streets. The parents of Mrs. But- 
ler were both natives of Germany, who came 
to this country in 1803 ; their occupation was 
farming. They had two children : Annie, 
Mrs. Butler, and Lizzie, Mrs. George Koch. 
The father died in 1859, aged forty-five 
years. Her mother still lives, at the age of 
seventy-one years, and resides in Williams- 
port, Pa. She is a member of the Reformed 
church. 



Stence, Benjamin F., was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., on what is known as the Motter 
farm, December 12, 1800. He is a son of 
the late Samuel and Mary (Iloelstine)Stence. 
His paternal grandparents were natives of 
Dauphin county; the grandfather was a 
cabinet maker. His maternal grandparents 
were farmers. His father, Samuel Stence, 
was born in Dauphin county, Pa., October 
16, 1830. He learned cabinet making and 
continued in this business until after his 
marriage, when he engaged in farming. He 
was married in 1800 to Miss Mary, daughter 
of Jacob Hoelstine, born January 7. L841. 
Of their five children, four are living ; Louis, 



Benjamin F.. Agnes and Lottie. Jacob died 
January 9, 1893, aged twenty-one. Mr. 
Samuel Stence was a Republican. He and 
his wife were members of the Bethel church. 

Mrs. Stence died in January, 1878, aged 
thirty-one. 

Benjamin F. Stence was reared a farmer 
boy and was educated in the common schools 
of Dauphin county. At the age of twelve he 
began to learn baking, and served an ap- 
prenticeship of twenty-one months with Mi-. 
Porter, of Dauphin, Pa. At the end of his 
apprenticeship he went to Newport, Perry 
county, Pa., and worked at his trade eighteen 
months for George E. Gas. After this he 
worked for one year in New York City. He 
enlisted in the United States army January 
18, 1884, and was discharged May 21, 1884, 
on account of disability. He then worked at 
baking for three months. In October, 1885, 
he came to Harrisburg and worked for Mrs. 
Miller, on Paxton street, until she sold her 
bakery, when he found employment with Mr. 
Gebhard for one year. Prior to this he had 
been engaged for a year and a half in a 
pretzel bakery in Duncannon, Perry county, 
Pa. He was also employed by Mr. Gobi on 
Walnut street, and afterwards for three 
months by Christ Dapp on Third street. 

He was married, September 23, 1SS7, to 
Miss Ellen M., daughter of Benjamin and 
Mary (Beaver) Fickes. They had four chil- 
dren, one of whom is living, Clarissa E. 
Their deceased children are- Bessie, died 
August 10, 1888, aged three months and one 
day; Mary, died October 13, 1890, aged two 
months and five days, and an infant, un- 
named. Mr. Stence is a Republican. 

Benjamin Fickes, father of Mrs. Stence, 
was born in Dauphin county. He was a 
farmer and was married to a native of Dau- 
phin county. They had two daughters, 
Annie, wife of A. L. Gast,aud Ellen M., wb'e 
of B. F. Stence. Her parents reside in Perry 
county and are engaged in farming. 

Bell, George H., was born in Harrisburg, 
July 27, 1822; son of William and Elizabeth 
(Hutman) Bell. The father was a native of 
Northumberland county and moved to Bed- 
ford county, where he learned the trade of 
carpenter. He came to Harrisburg in 1818 
ami worked on tin- Capitol building, then 
being erecteil. assisting in the construction 
of the stairways of ilia! edifice. 1 fe married 
the daughter of Mathias Hutman and pur- 
chased property on the corner of Second and 



646 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Mulberry streets, where he lived until 1836, 
when he removed to Second and Chestnut 
streets, and spent there the remainder of his 
life. He abandoned carpenter work in 1824 
or 1825 and engaged in mercantile business. 
Mr. Bell was one of the original stockholders 
in the Dauphin County Bank. He rendered 
service in the war of 1812. His death oc- 
curred in 1846, his wife surviving until 1868. 
He was a member of the German Reformed 
church and she of the Methodist Episcopal 
church. They reared six children. George 
H. secured his education in subscription 
schools. He entered the store with his 
father, and has continued in the business 
since that time. In politics he is an Inde- 
pendent Republican. He served as director 
of the poor of the county for three years and 
was a member of the first city council of 
Harrisburg. His marriage occurred in 1862 
to Miss Mary A. Roberts, daughter of Wayne 
Roberts, of Boston, to whom has been born 
one child: Clara. M. Bell. Mrs. Bell and 
her daughter are members of the Lutheran 
church. 



Weaver, John S., of the firm of Weaver 
& Hubley, was born in Highspire, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 12, 1849; son of John 
and Barbara (Hoffman) Weaver. The father 
was a truck gardener and farmer, near High- 
spire. John S. attended the district schools 
and when thirteen years old came to Har- 
risburg, where he started in business as a 
clerk for Mr. Felix, in the confectionery busi- 
ness, on Market Square, with whom he con- 
tinued four years, after which he was with 
Gardner & Sayford, on North Third street, 
from 1868 to 1872. In January, 1873, he 
united with Alpheus T. Hubley, forming 
the firm of Weaver & Hubley, and engaged 
in the manufacture and sale of confection- 
ery, and has since continued in the business. 
In politics Mr. Weaver is a Republican, and 
is a member of the A. 0. U. W. He was 
married in 1876 to Anna C. Troup, of Har- 
risburg. They have no children. They are 
members of the First Lutheran church, in 
which Mr. Weaver holds the office of dea- 
con. He is also a member of the Y. M. C. A. 



Zinn, Anson B., baker, Harrisburg, Pa., 
was born in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland 
county, Pa., December 5, 1856. He is a son 
of Edward P. and Margaret (Pisle) Zinn. 

Edward P. Zinn is a native of York 
county. He received an ordinary school 



education, and afterwards prepared himself 
for the practice of dentistry. He opened 
an office in Mechanicsburg, where he spent 
many years of successful work in that line. 
He was skillful and reliable in his opera- 
tions, and enjoyed a liberal patronage. For 
several years he has laid aside the active 
work of his profession. His wife, Margaret 
Pisie, was a native of Cumberland county. 
They had five children ; one died in child- 
hood, and four are living: Anson B., Ida E., 
Harry I. and Minnie Bell. 

Anson B. Zinn spent his youth and part 
of his manhood in his native county. He 
received the usual school training, and 
learned the trade of baking. His life has 
not been very eventful, and there is little to 
record, beyond the honorable mention of in- 
dustrious pursuits and faithful service. Mr. 
Zinn spent many j'ears as an employee, but 
was nine years in the baking business on 
his own account in his native place. He 
came to Harrisburg in 1890, in search of 
larger business opportunities, and has found 
no reason to regret the change. He has had 
gratifying success in this city, and is counted 
among its most reliable, enterprising and 
accommodating bakers. 

Mr. Zinn is still in the ranks of the 
bachelors. He is a Republican, and a mem- 
ber of Washington Camp, No. 164, P. 0. S. 
of A., Mechanicsburg. 

Meals, Theodore S., was born in Adams 
county, Pa., January 1, 1859. He is a son 
of the late Michael and Catherine (Shorb) 
Meals. His great-grandfather, Gabriel Meals, 
was a native of Adams county, and among 
its earliest inhabitants. He was a stone cutter. 
Gabriel Meals, grandfather of Theodore S. 
Meals, was also born in Adams county, was 
a stone cutter, and had a large marble yard. 
He had a family of twelve children, four of 
whom are living. Michael Meals, father of 
Theodore S., was born in Adams county, 
and was a carriage maker. He was married 
to Miss Catherine Shorb, a native of Adams 
count} 7 . They had six children, four of whom 
are living: Wesley, William, Gabriel and 
Theodore S. Their deceased children are 
Susan and Elizabeth. The father was a 
member of several societies, and in politics 
was a Republican. He belonged to the 
Lutheran church. He died in September, 
1859, aged thirtv-six years; his wife died 
December 23, 1872. 

Theodore S. Meals was about nine months 




^&f y/fo*~~~~ ' 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



049 



old when his father died. His mother re- 
moved from Adams county to Harrisburg, 
placing him in the Orphans' School at Mid- 
dletown, Dauphin county, where he remained 
three years and received a part of his educa- 
tion. He then returned to Harrisburg. In 
1869 he entered the DeWitt school, on Wal- 
nut street, where he remained three years. 
In 1873-74 he was in Professor Gause's school. 
In 1875 he found employment with Mr. D. 
H. Heisey, with whom he learned the ice- 
cream business and by whom he was em- 
ployed for thirteen years. At the end of 
this time he was admitted to partnership 
With Mr. Heisey; this partnership lasted two 
years. In 1888 he was employed as rodman 
in an engineer corps, and served one year in 
that capacity. In 1889-90 he was inspector 
of street paving. In 1891 he engaged in the 
ice-cream business for himself, at No. 1315 
X. nth Third street. A year later he removed 
to 909 North Third street, where he has been 
since located, and where he has one of the 
finest ice-cream stands in the city. He was 
married, October 16, 1890, to Miss Rosanna, 
daughter of John and Sophia (Orsinger) 
Wild, by whom he has had three children: 
Casper D., Ezra S., and Theodore S., Jr. Mr. 
Meals is a Democrat, and a member of Grace 
Methodist Episcopal church, State street, 
while Mrs. Meals belongs to the Lutheran 
church. He is practically a self-made man 
and has the esteem of the community. 

John Wild, father of Mrs. Meals, was a 
native of Germany, and was a baker. He 
married Miss Orsinger, a native of Dauphin 
county. They had six children, of whom 
four are living: Annie, wife of E. B. Will- 
iams ; Rosanna, wife of T. S. Meals ; Will- 
iam and Minnie. John and Amelia died in 
infancy. The father died in June, 1877, 
aged thirty-six; the mother still lives and is 
now the wife of John Willoughby. The pa- 
ternal grandparents of Mrs. Meals were both 
Datives of Germany. Her grandfather was 
a stone mason. The grandmother still sur- 
vives. The grandparents of Mrs. Meals, on 
her mother's side, were also natives of Ger- 
many. Mr. Orsinger, her grandfather, was a 
baker, but later was engaged in hotel-keep- 
ing, in Harrisburg, where he died, May 5, 
I Mi.!. Mrs. Meals' great-grandmother, also 
a native of Germany, lived to the age of 
ninety-eight years. 



burg, Pa., was born at Mount Holly Springs, 
Cumberland county, Pa., September 19, 1868. 
He is a son of Jonathan and Susan (Yost) 
Buttorff. Jonathan Buttorff was born in 
Berks county, Pa., but has been a resident of 
Mount Holly for over thirty years. He was 
a farmer but for several years past has lived 
retired from business. He has never been an 
office seeker, but has always taken an active 
interest in county affairs. He is seventy-six 
years of age. He married Susan Yost, of 
Cumberland county, who is still living ; they 
reside at Mount Holly Springs. They have 
eight children. all of whom are living: John 
W., of near Mount Holly ; D. Frank, of York, 
Pa.; Mary E., Emma Frances and Elizabeth 
C, at home; Annie F., wife of Samuel Frehn, 
of near Carlisle, Pa.; Simon A., living on the 
homestead ; and Harvey Y. 

Harvey Y. Buttorff was educated in the 
Mount Holly public schools and took a 
course in the Harrisburg Business College. 
For three years he was clerk in a drug store 
at Mount Holly and for a time also at York. 
He afterwards "came to Harrisburg, entering 
the employ of D. Bacon as shipping clerk and 
served in this capacity for three years with 
so much satisfaction to his employer that at 
the end of that time he was promoted to the 
position of bookkeeper, which he held until 
Mr. Bacon's death. Then the D. Bacon Com- 
pany was formed to carry on the business, 
with Mr. Buttorff as one of its members. He 
was married, in Gettysburg, Pa., October 22, 
1S93, to Minerva, daughter of Aaron and 
Lucy Sheely, of that place. They have one 
daughter, Lucy Mildred. Mr. Buttorff is a 
member of the Fraternal Mystic Circle. His 
political views are Republican. He and his 
wife are members of Messiah Lutheran 
church. 



Hi ttorff, Harvey Y., of the D. Bacon 
Company, wholesale confectioners. Harris- 

43 



Walkemeyer, Henry, senior member of 
the firm of Walkemeyer Bros., iee dealers. 
was born iri_Harrisburg, September 17. 1858 : 
son of the late 11. A. William and Margaret 
(Orth) Walkemeyer. The parents were both 
natives of Germany, the father having been 
born at Brunswick, Germany, and the mother 
in Hesse, Darmstadt, The father came to 
America when twenty-five years old, and soon 
after settled at Harrisburg, where he spent 
his life. He had a family of eight children, of 
whom six are living: Henry. Clara W.. 
Frederick R, Annie M . Ida Louisa, wife of 
Samuel Taylor, and Nettie May. a teacher in 
the public schools of Harrisburg. The 



650 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



father was not an office seeker, but served 
for one year as school commissioner. Henry 
was reared in his native city, and received 
his education in the public schools. At the 
end of his schooling he engaged in the 
ice business with his father, to which he 
has given his time and attention all his 
business life. Since the death of his father 
he and his brother have conducted the busi- 
ness. He was married, in Harrisburg, April 
13, 1878, to Margaretta M. Miller, daughter 
of Charles Miller, to whom has been born one 
daughter, Clara Wilhelmina. The political 
views of Mr. Walkemeyer are Republican, and 
he has served as a member of select council 
four years. He served five years as a private 
and non-commissioned officer in the City 
Grays, and was also one of the organizers of 
the Governor's Troop, in which he was first 
lieutenant three years. He is a thirty-second 
degree Mason and member of Lulu Temple, 
of Philadelphia, and is also connected with 
John Harris Council, No. 174, Jr. 0. U. 
A. M. He and his wife attend the Lutheran 
church. 

Frederick R, Walkemeyer, junior mem- 
ber of the firm of Walkemeyer Bros., was 
born in Harrisburg. He was educated in 
the city schools, and like his brother, be- 
came at once interested in his father's busi- 
ness, with which he has been connected all 
his life. He was married to Isabella Sharpe, 
daughter of Albert Sharpe, to whom have 
been born six children, five of whom are 
living: William, Florence, Frederick, Bessie, 
and Nettie. Mr. Walkemeyer is a member 
of John Harris Council, No. 174, Jr. 0. U. 
A. M. He is a Republican, and the family 
attend the Lutheran church. 



Sourbier, George H, senior member of 
the firm of George H. Sourbier & Son, funeral 
directors and embalmers, was born in Hun- 
terstown, Adams county, Pa., September 2, 
1838. He is a son of Jacob and M#ry (Klunk) 
Sourbier, who were both natives of York 
county, Pa., and were both of German extrac- 
tion. They spent the greater portion of their 
lives in Adams county on their farm. The 
father died September 1 , 1879, and the mother, 
September 9, 1872. A family of four chil- 
dren survive them: Edward, residing in 
York, Pa.; John, residing in Hamilton, 
province of Ontario, Canada; George H, and 
Mary J., wife of Henry Pifer, residing in 
York, Pa. 

George H. Sourbier was a farmer's boy, 



and his educational advantages were limited 
to such as were obtainable in the district 
schools, when his services could be spared 
from home duties. When eighteen years old 
he went to Hanover, York county, and 
learned house painting. In 1862 he re- 
moved to Harrisburg and worked at paint- 
ing for John Cruikshank for about one year. 
Ac the expiration of that time he went to 
Philadelphia where, on August 24, 1863, Mr. 
Sourbier enlisted in company H, Forty-ninth 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and nobly served 
in defense of his country for upwards of two 
years. He participated in several important 
engagements, among which was the battle of 
the Wilderness. On May 11, 1864, he was 
severely wounded in the left foot while doing 
skirmish duty. He was conveyed to Satter- 
ley Hospital, West Philadelphia, where he 
remained until after the close of the war. He 
was discharged with the rank of corporal, at 
Philadelphia, May 16,1865. He resumed work 
at his trade in that city. In 1866 he returned 
to Harrisburg, where he has continued to re- 
side since that date. From 1867 to 1875 he 
was engaged in the painting business, and 
from that date until 1882 was in the whole- 
sale liquor trade. In 1882 he engaged in 
the furniture and undertaking business, but 
since 1884 has devoted his entire attention 
to undertaking. 

George H. Sourbier was married in Har- 
risburg, January 9, 1866, to Miss Mary Jose- 
phine Faunce, daughter of Jacob and Caro- 
line (Beiser) Faunce. They have had four 
children, one of whom died in infancy. 
The surviving children are: George H, Jr., 
a partner in his father's business ; William 
J., residing in Allentown, Pa., where he car- 
ries on the undertaking business, the firm 
name being Burkholder & Sourbier, and 
Charles J., residing at home. Mr. Sourbier 
and his son George are both graduates of 
Clark's School of Embalming, in Philadel- 
phia. He served five years as a private in 
company D, Eighth regiment, National 
Guard, of Harrisburg. He represented the 
Sixth ward in common council for two 
terms. He belongs to Post No. 116, G. A. 
R. He is a member of the board of direc- 
tors of the Citizens Passenger Street Railway 
Company. In political views he is Demo- 
crat. He attends St. Patrick's Pro-Cathe- 
dral. 

Jacob Faunce, deceased, the father of 
Mrs. Sourbier, was born in Baden, Germany, 
and emigrated to America, settling in Dau- 



DM'I'IIIX ror.XTY. 



651 



phiii county about the year 1S33. He be- 
came acquainted with bis wife on board the 
vessel that brought them over and shortly 
after arriving in America they were married. 
After a short residence on Long Island, N. 
Y., they removed to this county where Mr. 
Faunce engaged in the butcher business 
during the remainder of his life. He died 
at the age of thirty-four years; his widow 
survived him until September 19, 1872, 
when she also was called to try the realities 
of the unknown. They had five children, 
three of whom survive : Caroline T ., wife of 
Michael McLean ; Joseph J. A., and Mary 
Josephine, wife of George H. Sourbier, a 
prominent funeral director of Harrisburg. 



SotjRBIer, George H., Jr., a partner in 
the undertaking and embalming business 
with his father, was born in Harrisburg, 
March 13, 1S71, and has been a continuous 
resident of his native city since his birth. 
His education was begun in the parochial 
schools and completed in Seller's Academy, 
since which he has been connected with his 
father's business. In January, 1804, he was 
admitted to a partnership in this business. 

He was married in Harrisburg, April 11, 
1894, to Ella E. Madden, daughter of Michael 
J. and Elizabeth Madden, of Harrisburg. 
They have one son, named in baptism Ed- 
ward Vincent. In political views Mr. Sour- 
bier is affiliated with the Democratic party. 
He and his wife attend St. Patrick's Pro- 
I athedral. 



Hawkins, James D., funeral director, was 
born in Hartford county, Md., April 21, 
1850. He is a son of Archibald A. and 
Nancy (Macomber) Hawkins. He received 
his education in the public schools and Nor- 
mal School of Delta, Pa., whither he had re- 
moved with his parents in his early youth. 
He entered the undertaking establishment 
of his father, and for twenty-five years he 
has continuously given his attention to this 
business, twenty-three of which have been 
spent in Harrisburg. He is a graduate of 
the renowned Traiuing School for Embalm- 
ers of New York as well as of the Harrisburg 
Embalming School. He has been engaged 
in business for himself for over ten years. 
He is an active member of Robert Burns 
Lodge, No. 4G4, F. & A. M.; Perseverance 
Chapter, No. 21 ; Pilgrim Commandery, No. 
11, of Harrisburg, aud Lulu Temple, of 
Philadelphia ; Herculean Castle, No. 480, 



Knights of the Golden Eagle ; and Egyptian 
Commandery, No. 114, Knights of Malta; 
also a member of Sovereign Consistory, Scot- 
tish Rite Masons. In politics he affiliates 
with the Democratic party. He has been 
prominently identified in musical circles in 
Harrisburg as a vocalist. He was one of 
the promoters and an officer of the Thurs- 
day Club, and an officer in the old Har- 
monic Society. He has contributed his tal- 
ent as a vocalist to many of the leading 
musicales and operatic performances given 
in Harrisburg. He has sung in the choirs 
of Grace church; the German Reformed 
church, Jewish synagogue and Grace Epis- 
copal church of Baltimore. He is highly 
esteemed as a good business man, a gentle- 
man of culture and a public-spirited citizen. 
Mr. Hawkins was married at Philadelphia, 
April 27, 1896, to Miss Sarah Cornelia Cook, 
daughter of Henry and Mary Cook, of Har- 
risburg. 

Thomas, Joseph L., of the firm of Thomas 
& Hill, funeral directors and embalmers, is 
a son of George W. and Matilda (Coxston) 
Thomas, and was born in Winchester, Va., 
December 16, 1S51. 

The ancestors of Mr. Thomas on both pa- 
ternal and maternal sides were natives of 
Virginia, in which State his parents resided 
until the breaking out of the late Rebellion. 
In 1861 the family removed to Harrisburg, 
where they resided for three years, and in 
June, 1864, they moved to Philadelphia, 
where the mother of Joseph L. died in Feb- 
ruary, 1865, and the father in December, 
186S. Of a family of seven children, two 
died in infancy, George died in Philadelphia 
in 1869, at the age of eleven years, and these 
still survive : Joseph L.; Rachael, wife of 
Talmage Edwards, residing in New York ; 
Martha W., wife of William H. Fields, re- 
siding in Harrisburg, and Sarah Matilda, 
wife of John H. Murray, residing in Harris- 
burg. 

Joseph L. acquired his primary education 
in the schools of Harrisburg, and after his 
removal to Philadelphia attended the schools 
of that city until 1870, in which year he re- 
turned to Harrisburg and became a waiter 
in the Brady House. He later served in the 
same capacity in the Lochiel Hotel, and 
subsequently became head waiter at the 
Bolton House, Harrisburg, which position 
he efficiently filled for ten years. During 
the years 1893 and 1S94 he filled the posi- 



652 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



tion of assistant head waiter at the Logan 
House, of Altoona, and on May 1, 1895, en- 
gaged in his present business. 

Mr. Thomas is a graduate of Prof. P. A. 
Renavord's Training School for Embalmers. 
He is past master of Chosen Friends Lodge, 
No. 43, Harrisburg; a member of Purity 
Chapter, of Altoona, and Harrisburg Con- 
sistory, No. 8, A. Y. M.; member of Broth- 
erly Love Lodge, No' 896 ; Council No. 
7, and Harrisburg Patriarchie, No. 5, G. U. 
0. of O. F. During the years 1S81, 1882 
and 1883 he filled the office of district 
grand master of the latter order, and in the 
years 1879, 1880 and 1881 was grand patri- 
archie for the United States. In political 
views he is an ardent Republican. 

Mr. Thomas was married in Harrisburg, 
October 26, 1881, by the Rev. George M. 
Bonnard, to Miss Marion B. Himes, daugh- 
ter of William E. and Annie E. Himes, of 
Northumberland county, who was born at 
Mount Joy, October 14, 1865. No children 
have been' born to their union. Both Mr. 
and Mrs. Thomas are members of the Capi- 
tol Street Presbyterian church, of which Mr. 
Thomas was choirmaster for eighteen years, 
and now holds the office of secretary. 

The occupation of undertaker is one that 
necessitates certain qualities not common to 
all lines of business in consequence of being 
thrown in contact with those in deep afflic- 
tion. Mr. Thomas is a gentleman whose 
pronounced success evidences his possession 
of all the essential qualifications for a proper 
conduct of this line of business. He gives 
personal attention to all details, is always 
ready to render any and every service to 
those in affliction, and is very considerate as 
to their wants and requirements. 



Mauk, Charles H., funeral director and 
embalmer,was born in Shiremanstown, Cum- 
berland county, Pa., May 8, 1863. His father 
is Thomas Mauk, who was born in Germany 
and came to America in childhood and set- 
tled in Shiremanstown, Cumberland county, 
Pa. He is one of the leading men in Me- 
chanicsburg. He was engaged in the furni- 
ture trade and in undertaking in that town 
for forty years. He now lives retired. His 
mother, Catherine E. (Hamburg) Mauk, is 
also a native of Germany and came to this 
country when quite young. She died Jan- 
ary 1, 1895. To these worthy parents were 
born ten children, of whom three died in 
infancy. Their seven living children are : 



John J., undertaker, residing in Columbus, 
Ohio; Thomas M., also an undertaker, of 
Carlisle, Pa.; Charles H; Catherine E., wife 
of Dr. G. M. Hoovor, of Harrisburg ; Mary 
Ellen, residing at home; Samuel T., an un- 
dertaker, in Steel ton, Pa., and Lottie, resid- 
ing at home. The father served in the com- 
missary department at Old Point Comfort 
under Governor Curtin during the late Re- 
bellion. 

The boyhood days of Charles H. were 
spent in Mechanicsburg. He received his 
primary education in the public schools. 
He took a complete course in the Cumber- 
land Valley Institute and graduated with 
high honors. After this he finished learning 
the trade of cabinet and casket making with 
his father. He then went to California, 
where he spent four years in gold and silver 
mining, also working at undertaking in San 
Francisco, after which he returned home. 
The same year he received an appointment 
as city embalmer in Boston, Mass., and en- 
tered the employment of Lewis L. Jones & 
Co., undertakers, and remained with them 
about one and one-half years. He then re- 
turned to Mechanicsburg, and in April, 1891, 
engaged in business for himself in Har- 
risburg. He is a graduate of Sullivan's Em- 
balming School, of Pittsburgh ; (/lark's, of 
Boston, and theUnited States College, of New 
York City. 

Mr. Mauk is the most prominent and suc- 
cessful undertaker in Harrisburg, and ranks 
as one of the leading men in his profession 
in the State. His trade is extensive, and his 
equipments are many and complete as well 
as costly. He is the Pennsylvania railroad 
undertaker, having been endorsed by nearly 
one thousand of its employees. He also does 
a large business in receiving bodies from a 
long distance. His office and stables are 
complete with long distance telephone, and 
his male and female assistants are of the best 
in all cases. He is not only a square but 
charitable man in all his dealings and busi- 
ness transactions. 

Mr. Mauk was married, at Harrisburg, Oc- 
tober 19, 1894, toM. Josephine Todd, daugh- 
ter of Ira J. and Catherine Todd, of Harris- 
burg. They had one son, Byron Todd, who 
died in infancy. He is a prominent mem- 
ber of St. John's Lodge, No. 21, F. A. M., 
of Carlisle ; Carlisle Chapter, No. 21, of Car- 
lisle ; Harrisburg Council, No. 328, Jr. 0. U. 
A. M., of Harrisburg ; Octorara Tribe, No. 
91, 1. 0. R. M.; Daughters of Pocohontas, No. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



653 



50; Lady Harris Council, Daughters of Lib- 
erty, No. 100 ; Fraternal Mystic Circle, No. 
440; Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. of P., the I. 
0. O. F. and K. G. E. He is a staunch and 
active Republican. He and his wife are 
among the leading members of Fifth Street 
Methodist Episcopal church. 

Fackler, Ezra, funeral director and fur- 
niture dealer, was born in Dauphin county, 
February 12, 1865. He is a son of Jacob 
and Sarah Fackler. His father was of Ger- 
man extraction, and of the fourth genera- 
tion in this country. He died at Steelton, 
Pa., in 1881, at the age of forty-six years. 
His mother is still living, and resides in the 
city of Harrisburg. Their family consisted 
of six children: Ezra L., John H., Sarah, 
Katie, Adeline,and Jennie. Ezra L. Fackler 
received the rudiments of his education in 
the public schools of Lower Paxton town- 
ship, and it was completed in the high 
school of Steelton, Pa. He embarked in 
the undertaking business at the age of nine- 
teen years, at Steelton, and has continued in 
it to the present time. Mr. Fackler is a man 
of strict integrity and is held in high esteem 
for his honorable business methods ; his 
character is without a blemish. He was 
married, in 1883, to Fannie Heinly, a 
(laughter of Benniville and Catherine 
Heinley. Their children are Samuel S. 
and Charles C. Fackler. 



Co., Harrisburg. In 1890 he became a mem- 
ber of the Harrisburg Casket and Manufac- 
turing Company, and in 1892 was appointed 
secretary and treasurer of thecrfmpany, 1 icing 
a trustworthy young man. From that date 
also he filled the position of superintendent 
in connection with his other duties until 
June, 1895, at which time be formed a part- 
nership with J. F. Stouffer. Since then he 
has given his undivided attention to the 
business of the firm, being the principal 
operator of said firm. 

Mr. Miller was married, at Harrisburg, 
June 22, 1893, to Mary E. Sheesley, daugh- 
ter of ex-Sheriff William and Anna (Young) 
Sheesley. Mr. Miller is an active member 
and past officer of the Jr. O. U. A. M. 
He is also a member of Nazareth Com- 
manderv, No. 125, K. of M., and Pocohontas 
Tribe, I.O. R. M., all of Harrisburg, Pa. 

In connection with his other duties he looks 
after the affairs of A. A. and the estate of 
George Pancake. In politics he is a Repub- 
lican. He and his wife are members of Zion 
Lutheran church. 



Miller, Edmund J., of Miller & Stouffer, 
funeral directors, was born at Milton, North- 
umberland county, Pa., June 1,1868. He is 
a son of Jerome Porterand Catharine (Moore) 
Miller. His father was a native of Berks 
county, Pa., and of German ancestry. He 
was for many years connected with the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, at Milton, as 
ear inspector, and in other positions of trust. 
1 [e died at Milton, December 14, 1893. His 
wife was born in Bavaria, Germany, and is 
still living with her daughter in Milton. 
Their family consists of three living chil- 
dren: Edmund J., Ida T., and Bertha E. 
One daughter, Margaret G, died August 15, 
IS! 12. 

Edmund J. spent his boyhood and was 
educated in Milton, and later took a course 
in the Keystone Business College, at Harris- 
burg. He was engaged in the capacity of an 
accountant for about live years for the firm 
of John II. Kreitzer, grocer, of Milton, and 
about three years for George Trullinger & 



Fraim, Henry S., proprietor of the Excel- 
sior Marble Works, 2003 Fifth street, was 
born in Dauphin, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 30, 1850. His progenitors were of 
Scotch ancestry. During the religious per- 
secution in Scotland, David Fraim and two 
others of the family, being Presbyterians ami 
strong in their faith, sacrificed their homes 
and fled the country rather than embrace 
the Roman Catholic faith. They came to 
America, landing at New York, where all 
trace of one was lost, though in later years 
some of his descendants were discovered in 
Canada by Rev. Reuben Fraim. a brother of 
Benjamin. The other two brothers settled in 
Lancaster county, Pa. 

Benjamin Fraim, the grandfather oi 
Henry S., was born in Lancaster county, Sep- 
tember 25, 1791, and was united in marriage 
to Elizabeth Stephenson, November 14, 1813. 
They had eight children: Israel W., born 
August 10, 1S15; Isaiah L„ born March 16, 
1818; Jeremiah s.. born February 25, 1820; 
Josiah M.. born December 5, 1821; Ira N., 
horn I'Ybruary 2 1. 1S24; I.avania A., born 
Februarv 14. 1826; John H., bom June 27, 
1827; Amos F., born May 23, 1829 

Jeremiah S. Fraim, third son of Benjamin 
Fraim, was born at Paradise. Lancaster 
county, ami died at Harrisburg, September 
25,1889. His wife was born at East Han- 



65-1 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



over, Dauphin county, Pa., April 7, 1821. 
Her name is Charlotte (Walters) Fraim. 
She is still living and makes her home with 
her children. They were married August 
21, 1845, and had six children: Alice A., 
born July 15, 1847, died in infancy ; Henry 
S.; Sarah E., born at Dauphin, April 24, 
1852, wife of John D. Harris, residing in 
Philadelphia; Mary E., born at Dauphin, 
November 12, 1856, wife of Robert Hall, re- 
siding in Philadelphia ; William N., born at 
Dauphin, November 8, 1858, residing in 
Harrisburg; Charles F., born at Dauphin, 
February 21, 1862, residing in Harrisburg. 

Henry S. Fraim spent his boyhood at 
Dauphin, and received his education in the 
schools of that place, under the tuition of 
Mrs. Talley. Here he learned shoemaking 
at which he worked for about twelve years 
in Harrisburg, where he took up his resi- 
dence in 1869. He was engaged in various 
occupations until 1893, in which year he 
commenced his present business. He is well 
and favorably known in trade circles, and is 
esteemed for his enterprise and integrity. 
He justly merits the large patronage he has 
received. 

Mr. Fraim was married, at Harrisburg, 
December 21, 1871, to Mary E. Hake, daugh- 
ter of Andrew and Eliza Hake. Their 
children are: Alvin H, born October 24, 
1872; Sylvia A., born April 29, 1875, and 
died August 15, 1877; Charles W., born 
April 3, 1880 ; Howard H, born December 
28, 1889. Mr. Fraim is a member of Pilgrim 
Encampment, No. 83, K. of St. J. & M., and 
of Phoenix Lodge, No. 59, K. of P. Mr. and 
Mrs. Fraim are consistent members of Fifth 
Street Methodist Episcopal church. 

McFadden, Thomas F., proprietor of the 
Market Street Granite Works, was born in 
Harrisburg, July 11, 1853. He is a son of 
John and Margaret (Garland) McFadden. 
The former died February 13, 1886 ; the lat- 
ter in December, 1882. Thomas F. received 
his education in the public schools of the 
city, and after completing his education 
learned the stone cutting trade with his 
father. In 1881 he engaged in business for 
himself in Lewistown, Pa. On the death of 
his father he returned to Harrisburg, and for 
ten years has been engaged in business, in 
this city. He has built up a large and in- 
creasing business. He was married, in Lewis- 
town, Pa., in 1877, to Emma Highshman, 
daughter of Louis and Hannah Highshman, 



natives of Lancaster county, Pa., and resi- 
dents of Lewistown. Five children have 
been born to them, four of whom died in in- 
fancy. Their only living child is Margaret 
G. In political views Mr. McFadden is a 
Democrat. His family attend St. Patrick's 
Roman Catholic church. 



McFadden, John E., was born in Harris- 
burg, February 2, 1850, and was educated in 
the public schools of the city. When he 
was thirteen years of age he ran away from 
home and enlisted, at Norfolk, Va., in com- 
pany A, Eleventh regiment, Pennsylvania 
cavalry, and served until the close of the 
war, being mustered out at Richmond, Va., 
and finally discharged at Camp Cadwalader, 
in August, 1865. He returned to Harris- 
burg and took up the trade of stone cutting 
in the monumental department of his 
father's shop. After acquiring this art he 
was occupied at it in various parts of the 
State, and doing business on his own account 
at Port Royal, Juniata county, Pa., for fif- 
teen years. For the past two years he has 
been at Harrisburg. He was married in 
Harrisburg, August 11, 1870, to Sarah A. 
Heck, daughter of Emanuel A. and Sarah 
Heck, of Dauphin county, Pa. They have 
had ten children, eight of whom are living: 
William F., born May 11, 1872; John C, 
born October 14, 1874; Laura M., born July 
22, 1876; Edward G, born in February, 
1883; Sallie M., born May 11, 1885; Mary, 
born August 5, 1887; and Harry, born De- 
cember 4, 1894. Mr. McFadden has filled 
several township offices in Juniata county. 
In politics he is a Democrat. He attends 
the Roman Catholic church. 



Gerlock, Frank G., senior member 
of the firm of Gerlock & Lutz, dealers 
in stone, lime, cement, plaster, etc., was 
born in Huntingdon, Huntingdon county, 
Pa., January 12, 1855. He is a son 
of Frank and Elizabeth (Stange) Ger- 
lock, both natives of Germany, who settled 
in Huntingdon at an early day where his 
mother still resides. His father was a black- 
smith by trade and was engaged in this 
business at Huntingdon from an early pe- 
riod. His parents had a family of eight 
children, four of whom are living: Frank 
G.; Louisa, wife of Richard L. Lutz ; Ed- 
ward, residing in Huntingdon; and Harry 
W., also residing in Huntingdon. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



655 



Frank G. Gerlock received his education 
in Huntingdon. When seventeen years 
old he removed to Harrisburg, where he 
learned the trade of machinist. He followed 
this occupation for more than twelve years. 
Mr. (xerlock was a member of the police 
force for two years. He was water inspector 
for over three years. In August, 1890, in 
connection with Richard L. Lutz, he engaged 
in his present business. He was married in 
Huinmelstown, Dauphin county, Pa., De- 
cember 5, 1875, to Anna E. Manley, a daugh- 
ter of Solomon and Barbara (Brubaker) 
Manley, of Harrisburg. The children born 
to this union are : James Alfred, Charles 
Elmer and Mabel Elizabeth. Mr. Gerlock 
is a member of Dauphin Castle, No. 250, 
K. of G. E.; of Union Temple No. 40, L. of 
< i. E., and Conclave No. 150, I.O. H. 



Lutz, Richard L., of the firm of Gerlock 
& Lutz, dealers in stone, lime, cement, etc., 
was born ;it Huinmelstown, Dauphin county, 
Pa., February 15, 1857. Pie is a son of Amos 
and Susannah (Hummel) Lutz. The father 
was a native of Lehigh county, and settled 
at Huinmelstown at an early date, where he 
spent his life. The mother was born in 
Huinmelstown; she is still living and resides 
at Harrisburg. They had thirteen children, 
four of whom are still living : Jacob D., Da- 
vid A., Richard L., and John S., all residing 
in Harrisburg. Richard L. Lutz was edu- 
cated in the schools of Huinmelstown. He 
learned the trade of machinist at which he 
worked for about thirteen years. In 1890 
he engaged in his present business in con- 
nection with Mr. Gerlock. He was married, 
at Harrisburg, December 28, lS75,to Louisa 
Gerlock. Five children have been born to 
them: Frank L., James II., John Edward, 
Richard Allen and Elsie Louisa. Mr. Lutz 
is a member Capital City Castle, No. 40, K. 
of G. E. ; of Dauphin Lodge, Xo. 1(50, I. O. 
O. F. ; and of Lodge No. 150, I. O. H. 



Black, John, of the firm of Black & 
Hunter, cut stone contractors, was horn in 
Rothesay, Buteshire, Scotland, May 6, L863. 
Il<' is a son of John Stewarl and Elizabeth 
(Mclntyre) Black. lie was educated in the 
common schools, after which he learned the 
cut stone business in all its branches. He 
worked on some pro ruin en 1 buildings in 

Scotland, such as the municipal building of 
Greenock and the residence of Lord Bute. 



Mr. Black emigrated to America in 1887, 
and resided for a time in Brooklyn, X. Y. 
In the same year he came to Huinmelstown, 
Dauphin county, Pa., and was for two years 
employed by the Waltons. In the spring 
of 1889 he removed to Harrisburg, and was 
made foreman for the Middletown and Hum- 
melstown Stone Company. In 1894 he formed 
a co-partnership with William C. Hunter, 
in the business of stone contracting. They 
buy stone in the rough and dress it to any 
required shape or style. This is the lead- 
ing firm of the city in that line of business. 

Mr. Black is also engaged in breeding fine 
blooded " Scotch collies." He is the owner 
of the "Maid of Bute," one of the finest 
specimens of the breed in this country. She 
won everything in her classes at New York 
and Philadelphia in 1890. He is a member 
of the Masonic fraternity in Scotland ; of the 
Knights of the Mystic Chain, Lebanon 
Valley Castle, No. 6, and of "The For- 
esters." In political matters he is an inde- 
pendent. 

Mr. Black was married at Rock Island, 
111., in 18S9, to Miss Catherine Clark, of 
Rothesay, Scotland. Their children are: 
John Stewart, Thomas Clark, and Elizabeth 
Mclntyre. He and his family are members 
of the Market Scpuare Presbyterian church, 
Harrisburg. 



Hunter, William C, junior member of 
the firm of Black & Hunter, cut stone con- 
tractors, was born in Liverpool, England, 
April 29, 1871. His father, William Hunter, 
and mother, Isabella (Torrie) Hunter, are 
both natives of Scotland. He was educated in 
the public schools of Rothesay, Scotland, his 
parents' native town, after which he learned 
all the branches of the building business. 
He also studied architecture for two and a 
half years under J. Russell Thompson, after 
which he was with his father as foreman 
until April, 1891, when he came to America 
and located in Harrisburg, where he was 
employed- by the Harrisburg Steam Stone 
Company, and placed in charge of their 
erection work in various cities. In the same 
capacity he was employed by Allen K. 
Walton, of Huinmelstown, and also by the 
Middletown and Huinmelstown Stone Com- 
pany. In 1894 he became a partner in the 
firm of Black .V Hunter. This firm does the 
most extensive business in the stone cutting 
line in the city. Mr. Hunter also has poetic 
talent, and has composed some very beauti- 



656 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL PEDIA 



ful poems in the style of the favorite bard of 
Scotland, Robert Burns. He contributes to 
the leading magazines of the country. He 
is an adherent of the Prohibition party. Mr. 
Hunter is one of the active and successful 
business men of Harrisburg. 

Verbeke, Marion, wife of William Iv. 
Verbeke, was born in Harrisburg, Novem- 
ber 9, 1829, and died March 8, 1896. Her 
body rests in the family burying ground in 
the Harrisburg cemetery. She was the e d- 
est daughter of Charles and Eliza Anderson, 
and was married, January 3, 1849, to Will- 
iam K. Verbeke, the present city controller 
of Harrisburg. In speaking of Mrs. Ver- 
beke's death the Harrisburg Telegraph of 
March 9, 1896, says : 

" The friends and acquaintances of Mrs. 
Marion Verbeke will be pained to learn of 
her death, which occurred last evening, at 
7.30 o'clock. Her sickness was of long dura- 
tion, and of much suffering, which she bore 
patiently and uncomplainingly. Being of a 
mild, gentle and happy disposition she 
made home one of unalloyed bliss and ten- 
derness. Her affection and solicitude for the 
welfare, comfort and care of her family were 
unbounded. Her friends loved her for her 
sunny ways, and their friendships were 
strong and enduring. She has passed away, 
but the memory of this good, true woman 
remains. 

" We recall her active life in the church 
which was dear to her heart. Steadfast to 
her duties to the end, what a noble Christian 
character she leaves behind as a solace to 
the loved ones of her household. With her 
family cares and her numerous public duties, 
which were of daily occurrence, she found 
time when the first soldiers of the war 
were brought into the improvised hospitals, 
with a heart full of love for her country and 
pity for the poor, unfortunate volunteers, 
sick and wounded, many of them mere boys 
away from home and friends, to minister 
to their daily wants. She took with her 
the choicest delicacies, wines, liquors, pre- 
serves — everything that was nice, palata- 
ble and strengthening to them, which they 
so much needed — and with a mother's care 
and tenderness nursed them and watched 
them until recovery, and when they left 
they blessed her for what she had done. She 
never tired of this work, but from the earliest 
period of the war until the close she was the 
constant attendant at the hospitals, caring 



alike even for the wounded Confederates 
from the battlefield of Gettysburg and 
though she done this she was bold enough 
to condemn them for the part they took in 
their unholy war. Often she was oppor- 
tuned to prepare a history of the hospital 
service of Harrisburg, for which she was 
offered pay, her services and knowledge of 
them being complete, so much so that no 
other one person could have given the facts 
she knew and the different actors who were 
associated with her. In honor of these great 
services, as a token of their real appreciation 
of her noble work, one of our Pennsylvania 
regiments conferred the honor upon her of 
electing her " Daughter of the Regiment." 
Well she deserved it. No history of the 
participants of the bloody struggle from 
1861 to 1865 can be written without giving 
Mrs. Marion Verbeke a prominent place as 
an active, energetic, untiring agent in the 
military hospital service. All her labors 
were free, given with heartfelt pleasure, 
never looking for remuneration, with no 
other motive than to do good to a fellow- 
being. Such a lovely, generous woman, one 
of our own people, has passed away, but the 
memory of her will be ever fresh and green 
among us and shall never perish. She 
leaves, beside her husband, two sons, Will- 
iam K., of Phoenixville, and Marion, of this 
city, and a daughter, Miss Gertrude." 



CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP. 



Goss, Jacob, miller, was born near Hum- 
melstown, Deny township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., February 23, 1836. John Goss, his 
grandfather, was a native of Pennsylvania, 
of German descent, and was a farmer. Ja- 
cob Goss, Sr., father of Jacob, was born in 
Dauphin county, and attended the school of 
his township. He grew up on his father's 
farm and became a farmer, owning and cul- 
tivating a farm of one hundred and seventy 
acres in Derry township. He was also a 
stock raiser. He married Mary Landis, 
born near Derry Church, and they had five 
children: Eliza, living at Union Deposit; 
Jacob ; Susan, wife of Jacob Shenk ; Mary, 
wife of William Gordon, of Campbellstown, 
and John, residing in Harrisburg. Mr. 
Goss was a Republican. The family were 
members of the German Reformed church. 
Mr. Goss died in Derry township in 1878 ; his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



657 



wife died in the same township. He was 
well known throughout the county and en- 
joyed the reputation of an honest man and a 
good neighbor. 

Jacob Goss, Jr., lived with his grandfather 
at Donegal, Lancaster county, and attended 
the schools of that place. He remained with 
his grandfather working on the farm until 
he was nineteen, and then came to Cone- 
wago township and learned the business of 
milling with his uncle, remaining with him 
five years. Young Goss was full of enter- 
prise and of a progressive spirit and was am- 
bitious to have a business of his own. He 
bought the mill of his uncle and has opera- 
ted it since that time with gratifying suc- 
cess. He also bought a small farm, made 
improvements upon it. and superintends its 
cultivation. He deals extensively in grain 
and feed and pays much attention to the 
mercantile branch of this business. 

Mr. Goss was married in Conewago town- 
ship in 1860, to Annie, daughter of Peter 
Wieland, natives of that township. Mr. and 
Mrs. Goss have four children : Melinda, wife 
of Levi Lehman; Peter, a miller of Eliza- 
hethtown, Lancaster county ; Harvey, store- 
keeper, at Elizabethtown,and Annie, unmar- 
ried. Mr. Goss, in politics, holds Republican 
views. He is a member of the German Baptist 
(Dunkard) church. Mr. Goss began life 
poor, and has accumulated a comfortable 
competence. His success is honorable, inas- 
much as it was achieved by industry, hon- 
esty and skillful management. He is genial 
in social intercourse, and is well liked by 
his neighbors. 



Fakvek, Christian, farmer, was born in 
Londonderry township, March 26, 1848. His 
father, Frederick Farver, was born in Ger- 
many, where he was educated and learned 
carpentry. When he was a lad of sixteen 
he came to this country and located at Mari- 
etta, Lancaster county, Pa., where he found 
employment in a distillery. lie also worked 
a short time on the canals. At twenty-three 
years of age he came to Dauphin county 
and located in Londonderry township, where 
he bought one hundred and thirty acres of 
land in the woods. Here he worked hard, 
early and late, cutting away the f wests, build- 
ing house, and barn, and fences, and suc- 
ceeded in making a productive farm where 
he had found the wilderness. He was known 
as an industrious, hard-working man, spar- 



ing no effort to make a home and all need- 
ful provision for his family. 

Air. Farver married Catherine Meiley, who 
was horn in Germany, and came to this 
country in early youth. They had ten chil- 
dren : John, farmer in Kansas; William, a 
prominent farmer in Lancaster county, Pa.: 
Christian; Catherine, wife of Jacob Baker, 
of Conewago township; Samuel, farms the 
homestead; Eliza, Barbara, and Fred died 
young, and there were two who died in in- 
fancy. Mr. Farver was a Republican, and 
one of the most widely known men in the 
township. He died in 1SS7 in Londonderry 
township. His wife still resides on the old 
homestead in Londonderry township, at the 
advanced age of eighty-four. She has a 
third set of teeth, which have grown since 
she was eighty years old. 

In his youth Christian Farver spent a 
part of each year in the schools of London- 
derry township, and worked the rest of the 
time on the farm. He also worked two years 
for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, 
after which he remained on the homestead 
until he was twenty-four. At this age he 
spent six months in a trip through the west- 
ern States, visiting Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, 
and other portions of the country. Upon 
bis return lie rented the homestead farm one 
year, after which he removed to Conewago 
township, where he rented and cultivated a 
farm of one hundred and sixty-three acres 
for twelve years. He afterwards bought the 
farm, erected new buildings, improved the 
old ones, and made improvements to the ex- 
tent of one thousand, five hundred dollars. 
This is his present homestead, in which he 
is engaged in farming and stock raising. 

Mr. Farver was married at Elizabeth town, 
Lancaster county, in 1.S71, to Lavinia, 
daughter of the late Jacob E. and Elizabeth 
(Nissley) Shenk, born in Conewago township, 
July 12, 1857. They have bad four children : 
Jacob S., born August 27. 1871, firmer in 
the township, married Bertha Gruble; Ed- 
win S., born October 23, 1876, educated in 
the township and resides with his father: 
Samuel S., born April 19, 1884, attends 
school; Harvey B., born May 19, 1873, died 
March 8,1874. 

Mr. Farver is a Republican. lie has been 
assessor and tax collector in the township. 
He is a member of the United Zion's 
church, of which he has been a deacon 
since 1885. He began life with a debt of 
one hundred and twenty-five dollars resting 



658 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



upon him. He had empty pockets but 
strong hands, a brave heart, and a clear head. 
His career has been successful. He is the 
owner of three hundred acres of land, and 
has started his son in farming, giving him 
over six hundred dollars. He is a large man, 
tipping the beam at two hundred and thirty 
pounds, and is large of heart also. Mr. Far- 
ver and his good wife are the dispensers of a 
liberal hospitality, and take great pleasure 
in entertaining their visitors. Their house 
is the abode of peace and plenty, and no 
people are more highly esteemed than are 
this worthy couple. 

Lehman, John R., farmer, was born in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., De- 
cember 23, 1838. His grandfather, Peter 
Lehman, was a prominent farmer and stock 
raiser of Lancaster county. John Lehman, 
father of John R., was born in Lancaster 
county, and came early to Dauphin county. 
He was recognized as one of the most prom- 
inentagriculturalists of Derry township. He 
married Elizabeth Rudd, a native of Lan- 
caster county. They had five children : 
Mary and Nancy, unmarried ; Samuel, lives 
on the homstead"; John R., and Peter, farmer, 
of Derry township. Mr. Lehman was a Re- 
publican. He was a member of the Men- 
nonite church. He died at his home in 1875, 
and his wife in 1865. 

John R. Lehman attended the common 
schools of Conewago township and worked 
on the farm with his father, until he was 
past twenty years of age. He rented a farm 
in Londonderry township for two years, re- 
moved then to Conewago township and 
rented twenty acres for two years, then two 
hundred acres for two years more. Then he 
went to Lancaster county and rented one 
hundred and seventy acres for one year ; 
then returned to Conewago township and 
rented a farm of one hundred and fifty acres 
near Bachraansville for two years. He next 
bought a farm of fifty acres for $3,000, at the 
sand hills, where he remained for three years 
and then sold out. He then removed again 
to Lancaster county and rented a farm of 
fifty acres for three years, and another of one 
hundred acres for one year, and then returned 
to Conewago township, Dauphin county. 
Here he bought a farm of forty acres for 
which he paid $4,200, and on which there 
were good improvements. 

Mr. Lehman wasmarried,at Annville, Leb- 
anon county, Pa., December 12, 1861, to 



Annie, daughter of John and Annie (Coble) 
Snyder, born in Derry township, Dauphin 
county, September 27, 1836 ; her father was 
a farmer of the county. They had five 
children: Lavinia S., born March 4,1863; 
Fannie, born September 29, 1865, wife of 
Christian Lehman, of Lebanon county, who 
has five children: Minnie, Annie, Harvey, 
Laura and Mamie ; Harry B., born March 
24, 1869, died in 1871 ; Annie, born June 14, 
1872, died February 14, 1873; John, born 
October 26, 1874, died August 10, 1875. 
Mr. Lehman is a Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the Mennonite church, and one of the 
solid and popular men of the community. 

Gruber, Peter, Jr., justice of the peace, 
manufacturer and merchant, was born in 
Conewago township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 21, 1846. The family came originally 
from Switzerland. John Gruber, grandfather 
of Peter Gruber, was a native of Lancaster 
county, and a prominent farmer there. He 
married Elizabeth Brooks, by whom he had 
four children: Peter, Sr., Joseph, John, and 
Fannie, wife of Benjamin Lehman, of Lan- 
caster county. John Gruber was an Old 
Line Whig. He and his wife were members 
of the German Reformed church. Both died 
in Lancaster county. 

Peter Gruber, Sr., attended subscription 
schools in Lancaster county, and afterwards 
followed the occupation of butcher. He re- 
moved, when a young man, to Conewago 
township, Dauphin county, and became a 
farmer. He married Barbara Daughter- 
man, born in 1816, by whom he had these 
children: John, farmer of Lancaster county; 
Peter ; Eliza, wife of John Gipfer, of Conewago 
township; Jacob, farmer in Illinois; Amos, 
deceased; Aaron, farmer of Conewago town- 
ship, and Daniel, deceased. Mr. Gruber was 
a Republican. He served as supervisor and 
in other offices. He was a member of the 
German Baptist (Dunkard) church. He died 
in Conewago township in 1885. His wife is 
still living and is cared for by her son Peter. 

Peter Gruber, Jr., attended school in Cone- 
wago township and worked on his father's 
farm. He obtained a teacher's certificate 
and taught school in Conewago and London- 
derry townships for seven years. After this 
he made a venture in the patent right busi- 
ness, but not finding it profitable he aban- 
doned it and returned to Conewago town- 
ship, where he learned cabinet making and 
afterwards went into the business for him- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



659 



self. He built a fine factory, employed sev- 
eral men, and supplied the surrounding 
country with furniture of his manufacturing. 
He now conducts also an undertaking de- 
partment, and since 187-4 has been the only 
undertaker in the town of Bachmansville. 
A few years ago he opened a store for grocer- 
ies, etc., and has been successful in this 
branch of business. Mr. Gruber was mar- 
ried in Conewago township, in 1873, to Mary 
A., daughter of Samuel and Barbara (Hoi- 
linger) Hoffer, born in Conewago township. 
They have five children: Barbara H., wife 
of John Blacker, teacher; Clara H., Ellen 
M.. Mary A., and Lena H. Mr. Garber en- 
listed at Harrisburg, August 23, 1864, in 
companj' C, Two Hundredth regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, Col. W. H. McCall and 
Capt. S. 0. Reno, Seventh army corps. He 
participated in the battles of Fort Steadman, 
Hatches Run, Butler's Farm, aud Peters- 
burg, and in several small engagements. He 
was in the hospital at Point of Rocks for 
eight weeks suffering from exposure, result- 
ing in typhoid fever. He was honorably 
discharged May 13, 1865. 

Mr. Gruber is a Republican. He was first 
elected justice of the peace in 1887, on the 
Republican ticket, there being only seven 
votes cast against him, and was elected for a 
second term in 1892 by a full vote. He has 
filled the office with dignity and ability, and 
has dispensed justice with an even hand. He 
was inspector of election for seven years; 
tax collector for county and State for two 
years; assessor aud school director for three 
years, and has been supervisor. Mr. Gruber 
takes an active part in all political move- 
ments. He is a member of the German Bap- 
tist church, was a Sunday-school superinten- 
dent four years, and a Sunday-school teacher 
nearly all his life. Mr. Gruber is a promi- 
nent man and is honored by all who know 
him. He may always be found on the side 
of all that will benefit society and promote 
the public welfare. 



Kaylek, Neri H. was born in Lancaster 
county, December "26, lsr,."> : son of Isaac and 
Barbara (Hoover) Kayler. Joseph Kayler. 
his grandfather, was a farmer and reared a 
family. The maternal grandfather was also 
a farmer. Isaac Kayler, father of Neri 11.. 
was born in Dauphin county, Pa., and is a 
farmer; at different times be was also en- 
gaged in the manufacture of barrels. He is 
a Republican. In religious faith and fellow- 



ship he is connected with the United Breth- 
ren church. Mrs. Kayler is a daughter of 
Samuel and Barbara (Snyder) Hoover. Their 
children are: Amos, Samuel, Linnaeus, Neri, 
Annie, Mary, Franklin, Isaac, and Katie, 
wife of Earnest Buser; Allen, Joseph, who 
died, aged four years, and Abraham, who 
died in 1871, at the age of nineteen. Xeri H. 
Kayler attended the public schools and 
worked on the farm at intervals until he was 
twenty-two years old, when he engaged in 
farming on his own account. This has ever 
since continued to be his occupation. For 
one year he held an agency for Mr. Ebersole 
for the sale of agricultural implements. Mr. 
Kayler is a Republican. In 1S92 he was ap- 
pointed tax collector for Conewago township 
and served one year : he was elected assessor 
in 1895, which office he still holds. 



Coble. Amos G., Bellair, Lancaster county, 
Pa., was born in Dauphin county, Pa.. June 
19, 1870, and is the son of John H. and 
Elizabeth (Gingerich) Coble. 

Christian Coble, his grandfather, was a 
farmer. He married twice; his first wife 
was a Miss Hoffer; his second, Miss Nancy, 
is still living. Isaac Coble is the only sur- 
viving son of Christian Coble; his other 
children, Christian. Barbara, John H., Sam- 
uel, and Jacob, all being deceased. Both 
the parents of Amos G. Coble were natives 
of Dauphin county, and his mother Eliza- 
beth was the daughter of Henry Gengerich. 
Besides their son they had one daughter, 
Barbara. Mr. John II. Coble was always a 
man of note in the community; first as a 
teacher, in his early manhood ; after he had 
relinquished this profession for the business 
of farming his fellow-citizens showed their 
appreciation of his intelligence and good 
judgment by electing him to various town- 
ship offices. He was a school director for 
some years and also assessor on the Re- 
publican ticket, as lie adhered to that party. 
He was still farming when his useful life 
closed in its prime: he died March '.', 1885, 
at the comparatively early age of forty-nine. 
His religious profession was Mennonite. 
His wife survives him: she is about sixty - 
one years of age. and enjoys the care of hei 
son on the homestead where most of her life 
has been passed. 

Amos (i. Coble received a good education, 
attending first the common schools of 
Dauphin and afterwards those of Lebanon 
county until he was nineteen years of age. 



660 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



After leaving school he took charge of the 
home farm and cultivated it for his mother, 
but since 1893, the year of his marriage, he 
has carried on the business on his own ac- 
count. On January 17 of that year Amos 
G. Coble was married to Kate H., daughter 
of Martin M. and Maria (Horst) Risser. Mr. 
and Mrs. Coble have one son, Ira, born Sep- 
tember 23, 1895. Mr. Coble's political 
opinions are Republican. 

Witmer, Joseph B., Deodate, Pa., was born 
in Londonderry township, near the Cone- 
wago line, Dauphin county, Pa., May 24, 
1817. He is a son of Peter and Esther 
(Burk holder) Witmer. 

The Witmers are of Swiss origin, the 
great-grandfather of Joseph B. Witmer hav- 
ing come to America about the year 1760. 
A son of this emigrant, Joseph Witmer, 
grandfather of Joseph B., was born Septem- 
ber 29, 1755. Farming was his lifelong oc- 
cupation. He married Miss Barbara Hoover, 
born in April, 1755, and was the father of 
eight children, all now deceased. They were: 
Peter; Mrs. Daniel Wolkmann ; Mrs. Martin 
Nissley ; Mrs. Henry Snyder ; Mrs. Jacob 
Heisy"; Katie, wife of John Horst ; Samuel, 
and Christian. Joseph Witmer died March 
16, 1844, aged eighty-eight ; his wife died 
June 19, 1835, aged eighty years. 

The maternal grandparents of Mr. J. B. 
Witmer were both natives of Lancaster 
county, where Mr. Burkholder was a farmer. 
Of their eight children, the only survivor is 
Abraham. Those deceased are : John, Jo- 
seph, Peter, Christian, and Jacob ; Esther, 
married to Peter Witmer, and Mary, wife of 
Ulrich Shaffner. Mr. Shaffner is also de- 
ceased. Mr. Burkholder died about the year 
1809; his wife survived him for about twenty 
years. 

Peter Witmer, father of Joseph B., was 
born in Mount Joy township, Lancaster 
county, Pa., October 18, 1787, and spent his 
years in tilling and improving the soil of his 
native county. His wife Esther, daughter 
of Joseph Burkholder, was born in Rapho 
township, in the same county, April 17, 1796. 
Their family numbered seven, of whom two 
are deceased : Henry, who died in 1886, at 
the age of sixty-six, and Nancy. Five are 
still living: Joseph B., Peter, Mary, widow 
of John Longenecker, Abraham, and Jacob. 
Mrs. Esther Witmer died May 28, 1830, at 
the age of thirty-four years. Mr. Witmer 
was again married, to Miss Barbara, daugh- 



ter of Jacob Lehman. By this marriage 
there were no children. Mr. Witmer died 
October 27, 1844, aged sixty-two. 

Joseph B. Witmer was a pupil in what 
are known as subscription schools until he 
reached his sixteenth year. From that time 
until he was about twenty-six he was occu- 
pied with farm work for his father and 
others. From about the date of his first 
marriage until the present time he has at- 
tended to farming on his own account, but 
has not been so entirely devoted to his own 
affairs as to take no interest in the welfare 
of the communit}- to which he belongs. 
His neighbors, recognizing his public spirit 
and good sense, have called him to fill 
several township offices. He has served as 
auditor at different times, the terms aggre- 
gating about ten years; he was a school di- 
rector before the war of the Rebellion, and 
for about fifteen years since that time, dur- 
ing all his time of service being president of 
the board ; and for one term he was super- 
visor. He is an active Republican. 

Mr. Witmer was married, March 14, 
1844, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel 
Hoffer, Esq., and of Mrs. Samuel (Foltz) 
Hoffer. Their children are : Caroline, wife 
of Abraham Gish, and John H., married to 
Lydia Etter. The mother died February 
26, 1848, aged twenty-eight years, nine 
months and eight days. Mr. Witmer's 
second marriage was with Miss Elizabeth, 
daughter of David Buchwalter, and took 
place December 24, 1848. The children of 
this marriage are : Annie, wife of David 
Gratz; Martha, wife of Solomon Schenk; 
Lizzie, wife of Peter Shiffer, and David, who 
died December 2, 1862, aged three years and 
eight months. The second wife died October 
7, 1881, aged fifty-eight years, seven months 
and thirteen days. Mr. Witmer married 
the third time, October 23, 1883, Mrs. Sarah, 
widow of John Boosey. They had no chil- 
dren. Joseph B. Witmer is a member of 
the German Baptist church, in which for 
the past thirty-one years he has held the 
office of deacon. 

Christian Witmer, uncle of Joseph B., 
was born March 20,1799, and died April 22, 
1872. His wife, Miss Mary Wolgamuth, 
was born January 18.1801, and died March 
5, 1870. 



Kaoffman, Henry K., a native of Lan- 
caster county, Pa., was born September 5, 
1833 ; son of Benjamin and Annie Kauff- 



DA UPHIN CO UNTT. 



tIGl 



man. His paternal grandfather, John Kauff- 
inan, was a native of Lancaster county, as 
was also his grandfather on the mother's 
side, and both of his parents were born in 
that county. Benjamin KaUffman was first 
a weaver and later in life a farmer. He was 
married to Miss Annie Kauffman, daughter 
of John and Mary Kauffman. Four of their 
family of nine children are living: Henry 
K., Martha, Benjamin and Andrew. Those 
deceased are: Abraham ; Susan, wife of Jacob 
Snyder; Jacob, who died in 1863, aged thir- 
teen years; Amos, died in 18G2, at the age of 
seven years; and Annie, who also died in 
1862, aged four years and ten days. Mr. 
Benjamin Kauffman died a retired farmer, 
aged seventy-six years andthree months ; his 
wife died aged sixty years. Both were of the 
Mennonite persuasion. 

Henry K. Kauffman received his educa- 
tion in Rapho township, Lancaster county, 
attending school, like farmers' boys in gen- 
eral, only during the winter, and learning the 
art and science of agriculture practically by 
making themselves useful on the farm dur- 
ing the rest of the year. Mr. Kauffman was 
all his life a farmer, for although he endeav- 
ored during one winter to learn the trade of 
a miller, he was obliged at the end of the 
season to give up the attempt on account of 
ill health. He therefore returned again to 
farming, to which he has ever since, espe- 
cially since the beginning of his married 
life, given his exclusive attention. Mr. Kauff- 
man is a Republican ; he is now serving his 
township as supervisor, to which office he was 
elected in 1895. Henry K. Kauffman was 
married, February 16, 1871, to Susan. S., 
daughter of John and Mary (Sherry) Helman, 
born August 1, 1833. Mr. and Mrs. Kauff- 
man have had four children: Annie and 
Lizzie, twins, died July 19, 1876, aged 
twenty-one days; Mary A., wife of Harry 
Shearer; and F., who is married to Miss 
Kate Grumbine. Mr. Kauffman belongs to 
the Mennonite church. 

Mr. and Mrs. John Helman, the parents of 
Mrs. Kauffman, were both natives of Lan- 
caster county. Mr. Helman was a weaver, 
but continued only a short time in that 
occupation before exchanging it for fence 
making, with which he was occupied for 
many years, but which heat last relinquished 
to engage in butchering. He was married 
to Miss Mary Sherry, daughter of Jacob and 
Anna Sherry. Two of their children are 
deceased : Jacob, died at the age of twenty- 



two years and three months; and Henry, 
died at the age of forty years and two months. 
Their living children are : Kate, wife of Ben- 
jamin Minutes; Lizzie, widow of Michael 
Steffey ; Susan S., Mrs. Kauffman; John; 
Mary, wife of Peter Kegerreis; Cyrus, and 
George. Mr. Helman died at the age of 
sixty years, and Mrs. Helman in 1880, aged 
seventy-five; both died in Lancaster county. 
They were members of the Lutheran church. 



Bachman, Samuel S., postmaster and 
school teacher, Bach mans ville, Pa., was born 
at Bachmansville, Pa., January 22, 1855 : 
son of Hen ry D. and Fanny (Shelly) Bach- 
man, a retired farmer, and reared at Swa- 
tara, in Deny township. His grandfather 
was the founder and proprietor of the town 
of Bachmansville. His father was also a 
farmer. 

Samuel S. attended the district schools of 
South Annville township, Lebanon county, 
and also the schools at Bachmansville. He 
studied three terms at Palmyra Academy 
and two terms at the State Normal School. 
at Millersville, from which latter institution 
he received a teacher's State certificate. For 
the past fourteen years he has devoted his 
life to the instruction and training of the 
youth of his native place. He also spent 
eight months teaching in Illinois, and has 
taught in Derry township as well as in Con- 
ewago. Mr. Bachman was married at Eliz- 
abethtown, Lancaster county, in 1S77. to 
Katie Goff, a native of Lancaster county. 
They had four children : Cora, Garfield Ar- 
thur, Edgar Cullen and Emma Mad or a. 
Mr. Bachman was appointed postmaster un- 
der the Arthur administration and has held 
the office since that time, giving to the pub- 
lic the utmost satisfaction in the manage- 
ment of the office. In his politics he is a 
Republican and actively interested in public 
matters. He is agent for the sale of the 
farm implements made by the McCormick 
Company. He is a teacher in the Sunday- 
school and a zealous worker in the cause. 



Bkaxot, Abraham L., farmer, Deodate, 
Pa., was born in Conewago township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., May ti. 1836. Michael, 
the grandfather, was a native of Pennsylva- 
nia and was a carpenter by trade, and was 
also an undertaker. John, -the father, was 
also born in Conewago township, in 1801, 
and was engaged in farming in London- 
derry township, where he married Annie 



662 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Long. His children were: Samuel, Annie, 
Elizabeth, Catherine and Abraham. His 
father died in Londonderry township in 
1852. He was a Republican in politics. 
The mother was married again to Joseph 
Youtz, and they had two children, Fannie 
and Barbara, both deceased. The mother 
has also passed away. 

Abraham attended school and worked on 
the farm until nineteen years old when he 
learned the blacksmith trade at which he 
worked for ten years as a journeyman, and 
for thirteen years had a shop of his own. 
He later bought the farm which he now 
occupies and which he has cultivated and 
improved. He was married in Lebanon 
county, in 1859, to Mary Basehore, born in 
Londonderry township, Lebanon county, 
October 13, 1840, daughter of Henry and 
Mary Basehore. Their children are : Anna 
K., Alice, Ella, John, Harriet, Fannie, Cora, 
William, and Eliza, deceased. Mr. Brandt 
is a Republican in his politics and takes an 
active interest in township matters. 



and was a farmer. He married Miss Anna 
L. Ebersole, born in Lancaster county, and 
to them have been born two children : 
Amanda E., Mrs. Brubaker, and E. E. The 
father has passed away, the mother survives 
and lives at Mt. Joy. She is a member of 
the Mennonite church. 



Brubaker, Seth, Conewago township, 
was born in Lebanon county, Pa., May 3, 
1863; son of D. B. and Kate (Royer) Bru- 
baker. Jonas, the paternal grandfather, was 
born in 1800, in Lebanon count} 7 , and was 
reared there. His wife was born in Lan- 
caster county. He was a farmer by occupa- 
tion and reared a family. D. B. Brubaker, 
the father, was a miller and later engaged in 
farming. He married Miss Kate, daughter 
of Seth and Rosa (Zinn) Royer, and they had 
eight children, five of whom are living: 
Jonas, Rosie, wife of Adam 0. Brandt, Seth, 
Emma, and A. R. The deceased children 
are : Susan, Amanda and Katie. The parents 
are both members of the Church in Christ. 

Seth received his education in the public 
schools and in Lebanon Valley College. At 
the age of twenty-one years he began teach- 
ing and taught for three terms in the public 
schools. In June, 1885, he was married to 
Miss Amanda E. Risser, daughter of Abra- 
ham S. and Anna L. (Ebersole) Risser. They 
have four children : Mabel, Daniel, Laura 
and Stella, In 1886 Mr. Brubaker engaged 
in farming in Conewago township and bought 
the farm lately owned by Abraham Risser, 
which he has since occupied and cultivated. 
He has served • as school director for one 
year and is a neutral in his politics. Mrs. 
Brubaker was born February 28, 1867. Her 
father was born in Londonderry township, 



Eby, Henry B., was born on a farm in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., May 
6, 1833; son of Peter Eby. The father was 
born in Derry township, received his educa- 
tion in the district schools of his native 
township, and grew to manhood on the farm 
of his father. The ancestors were from 
Switzerland. The father succeeded to the 
homestead in Derry township, and was mar- 
ried in Lancaster county, Pa., to Miss Mary 
Wisler, of that county. He took up his resi- 
dence on the home farm in Derry township, 
and lived there until his death in 1844. His 
wife survived him many years, and died in 
Lancaster county, aged eighty-nine years. 
Their children are: Samuel, George, Henry 
B., Annie, Mary, deceased, and Peter. 

Henry B. acquired his education in the 
common schools, and worked on the farm 
until he was fifteen years of age, when his 
father died, and he started to learn the trade 
of shoemaking near Churchville, Dauphin 
county, and served an apprenticeship of two 
and a half years. When he was nineteen 
years of age he became a clerk in the store 
of John Eby, who kept a general store at 
East Hanover, Lebanon county, where he 
remained two years, and then clerked for 
Moses Early, in the same place, for oue year, 
at the end of which time he worked for 
awhile for Mr. Garbuck in that town. He 
next went through the West prospecting for 
business, and after a few months sojourn in 
Ohio, Illinois, Indiana and Iowa, he re- 
turned to his brother Samuel's home, at Bis- 
mark, Lebanon county. In a short time 
he got a situation at Colebrook, in Lebanon 
count} 7 , where he remained six months, and 
then returned to Bismark. In 1855 he em- 
barked in the mercantile business with his 
brother at Bismark, where he continued 
until 1864, when he located at Bachmans- 
ville, where he opened his present place of 
business, and conducts a general store. Mr. 
Eby was married at Bismark, in 1860, to 
Miss Lizzie Smith, by whom he has four 
children : Mary, Robert, Grant, and Lizzie, 
died young. His wife died six or seven 
years after marriage, and he took for his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



663 



Second wife Miss Lydia Lehman, a native of 
Lebanon county, by whom he has twelve 
children : Henry, John, Ida, Anna, Louisa, 
deceased ; Lillie, Katie, Tillie, George, Will- 
iam, Elsie, and Ira. Mr. Eby was originally 
a Republican, but is now an independent 
voter, and has never sought any political 
office. He is not a member of any religious 
organization. 



Foltz, Christian M., was born in Cone- 
wago township, Dauphin countv, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 24, 1868; son of John S. Foltz. 
Christian, the grandfather, was the son of 
Christian, great-grandfather, and he was the 
son of Christian, who was a native of Ger- 
many, and the first of the family to come 
to America. Since that time many of them 
have been farmers. The grandfather reared 
a large family and died in Dauphin countv. 
John S., the father, was born in Dauphin 
county in 1831, and removed with his par- 
ents to Conewago township when a boy, 
where he grew to manhood and was educated 
in the district schools of that township. He 
was first married to Helen Lutz, who bore 
him two children, Sarah and Mary, and 
then died. He was married then to Miss 
Elizabeth Alleman, born in Lower Swatara 
township in 1826, by whom he had four 
children : Ella and Catherine, both at home ; 
J. Ezra, proprietor of a creamery at Deodate, 
and Christian. After his marriage he opened 
a general store at Deodate, which he con- 
ducted until his death in 18S7. 

Christian acquired his primary education 
in the district schools and was graduated at 
the Normal School at Kutztown when he was 
twenty years of age. During vacation he 
was employed on the home farm. In the 
spring of 1891 he embarked in the mercan- 
tile business at Deodate, succeeding David 
Nissley, and has since built up a large and 
profitable trade. He was never married, 
but lives at home with his mother. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church and is in- 
terested in the welfare of the community. 
In his political views he is a staunch Re- 
publican. Under the Harrison administra- 
tion he was appointed postmaster of Deodate. 



Foltz, J. E., proprietor of the creamery, 
Deodate, Pa., was born in Conewago town- 
ship, Dauphin county, July 25, L865. His 
father was John S. Foltz, a well-known mer- 
chant of that place. He married Elizabeth 
Alleman, and they have four children : Ella, 



Catherine, J. E., and Christian, all of whom 
are unmarried. The father died in 1884. 
He was a member of the Lutheran church, 
and in his political views was a Republican. 
He served as school director, auditor and 
in other offices. 

J. E. Foltz was educated at the district 
schools, Millersville State Normal School, 
Cumberland Valley State Normal School 
and Keystone State Normal School, from 
which latter institution he received a di- 
ploma. He taught schools in Berks, Lan- 
caster and Dauphin counties, and was also 
the principal of the Orphans' Home, and in 
all taught seven full terms. In 1893 he es- 
tablished a creamer} 7 at Deodate, which, with 
equipment, cost §3,000, and has also two 
branch creameries, one at Vine and the 
other at Bachmansville, costing §1,000. He 
buys milk from the adjacent farmers, pay- 
out over $300 per week. He manufactures 
three hundred pounds of butter per day and 
ships it over the State. Mr. Foltz is unmar- 
ried. He is a Republican in politics, and is 
prominent also in Sunday-school work, be- 
ing the president of the Dauphin County 
Sunday-school Association and has been a 
superintendent of the local Sunday-school. 



Grubb, Benjamin, farmer. Deodate', Pa., 
was born in Conewago township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., July 19, 1845. John, the father, 
was born in the same township in 1810 and 
was a farmer. He married Annie Brandt 
and their children were: Fannie, Henry, 
John, Jacob, Benjamin, Josiah, and three 
who died young. He was a Republican in 
his political views. His wife died in 1876, 
and he died July 17, 1893. Both were mem- 
bers of Zion church. 

Benjamin attended the township schools 
and worked on the homestead until he was 
twenty-one years old. He then bought a 
farm in the township containing 130 acres 
which he so much improved. He lost his 
barn by fire with the stock it contained, en- 
tailing"^ loss of §1,500. In 1894 he built a 
fine new barn. He was married, in London- 
derry township, November 14,1872, to Annie 
Herzey, born in that township, July 30, 1851, 
daughter of Henry and Mary Herzey. The 
former was a native of Londonderry town- 
ship and was a farmer. Me died in Novem- 
ber, 1892, and his wife in 1877. having reared 
nine children. The children of Mr. and 
Mrs. Grubb are: Mary H., Benjamin H., 



664 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Simon H., Annie, and Harry. Mr. Grubb 
is a Republican in politics and a member 
of Zion's church. 



Grubb, Joseph G., farmer, Bachmansville, 
Pa., was born in Conewago township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 3, 1832. John 
Grubb, the grandfather, was born in Lan- 
caster county, and was a miller and farmer 
in Conewago township. In politics he was 
a Whig. He and his family were members 
of the Mennonite church. He married Susan 
Blough, to whom there were born five chil- 
dren : John, Christian, Daniel, Susan and 
Nancy. Christian, the father, was educated 
in the subscription schools of the township, 
and worked with his father on the farm. 
He continued on the homestead and has 
been all his life engaged in farming in his 
■ native township. He married Nancy Ging- 
rich, a native of Lebanon county, and they 
had eight children : Samuel', Catherine, 
Polly, Margaret, deceased, Michael, Joseph 
G, Susan and David. The father died in 
1875, and his wife died in 1881. He was a 
Republican in politics and always much 
interested in public matters. 

Joseph G. acquired his education in the 
public schools of the township and was en- 
gaged in farm work on the homestead until 
he became of age, after which he rented a 
farm and began business for himself. When 
twenty-nine years of age he rented a farm of 
one hundred and sixty-eight acres for one 
year, after which he rented another farm, 
where he spent sixteen years and then 
his present farm of twenty-four acres for 
three thousand dollars, on which he has 
made many improvements. He was mar- 
ried in Conewago township, in 1861, to 
Christina E. Shenk, and to this marriage 
there is no issue. They are enjoying their 
comfortable home and reaping the fruits of 
the industry and frugality of their earlier 
life. He is a Republican and a member of 
Zion's church. 



Shelly, J. 0., Deodate, Pa., was born No- 
vember 17, 1893 ; son of Samuel and Eliza- 
beth Shelly. The parents were both natives 
of Lancaster county. The father was born 
in July, 1808, and was a farmer. He re- 
moved from Lancaster to Dauphin county 
and settled in Conewago township. He mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of Christian Over, 
of Lancaster county. Their children are: 
Elizabeth, Katherine, Fannie, Mary, Henry, 



J. 0., and Samuel, deceased. The father filled 
several township offices. He died in Sep- 
tember, 1881, aged seventy-eight years, and 
his wife died, aged sixty-nine years; both 
were members of the Old Brethren church. 

J. 0. Shelly attended the public schools of 
Conewago township and subsequently took 
a course in Palmyra Academy. He was en- 
gaged in farming with his father until his 
marriage. In 1867 he began farming for 
himself on one of his father's farms, where 
he has continued to the present time. Mr. 
Shelly has filled several public offices, that 
of school director for three years, and that of 
inspector of elections. He was made the 
executor of his father's estate, and ably and 
honestly discharged the trust. 

In his political views he is a Republican. 
His religious fellowship is in the Old Breth- 
ren church. Mr. Shelly was married, Janu- 
ary 8, 1867, to Miss Susan Gipple, daughter 
of Samuel and Lydia(Shenk) Gipple, of Leba- 
non county. Their children are: Harry, Liz- 
zie, Samuel, and Isaac. The parents of Mrs. 
Shelly are natives of Lebanon county. Her 
father was a farmer, and married Miss Liz- 
zie Shenk. Their children are: Harry, Sam- 
uel, Harvey, John, Jacob, Lizzie, Fannie, 
Leah, Susan, and Joseph. The parents re- 
side at Palmvra, Pa. 



Shenk, Cyrus G.,was born in Derry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., May 21, 1839 ; 
son of John M. Shenk. Rev. Michael Shenk, 
the grandfather, was the first of this fainity 
to settle in Dauphin county. He was first 
at Germantown, Pa., removed from there to 
Philadelphia and later to Lancaster county, 
where he received his education. The fam- 
ily were of the class which left Switzerland 
for good political and economical reasons, 
removing first to London, England, and 
later to America. His great-grandfather 
married Miss Lehman, who bore him a 
large family. 

Christian, the grandfather, was brought 
up a farmer boy, and had few educational 
advantages, the lack of which made him a 
strong advocate for a liberal provision in 
this respect for the youth of the State. He 
was married in Dauphin county to Miss 
Martin, by whom he had two daughters and 
one son, John M. He later married a Miss 
Lehman, who bore him two daughters and 
a son. He was a man of great public spirit, 
an advocate of free schools and all measures 
promoting the general welfare of society, and 





^z^^CL^jcZ^e/ 



DAUPniN COUNTY. 



667 



was a man of prominence and influence 
whose advice was sought on all matters. 
He succeeded his father on the old Shenk 
farm which then contained six hundred and 
forty ecres. 

John M., the father, was born on the home- 
stead, November 15, 1814, and was educated 
in the district schools of that time. He was 
reared on the farm and became a farmer. 
He was married, in Dauphin count}', in 1838, 
to Miss Mary Gingrich, born in Derry town- 
ship, in 1815, daughter of John and Mary 
(Mover) Gingrich. After marriage, he settled 
on a rented farm in Derry township, and 
after a short time returned to the old home- 
stead in Conewago township. Their children 
are : Cyrus G., Diana. Mary Ann, Christian 
M., and Elizabeth. His wife died in 1881, 
after a lingering illness. She was a devoted 
Christian woman, active in all good works. 
The father still survives and enjoys good 
health for his years. He has held several 
township offices, and has been one of the 
directors of the Hummelstown National 
Bank since its organization. 

Cyrus G. began his education in the dis- 
trict schools of Conewago township, and 
finished at Mt. Joy Academy, when he was 
about nineteen years of age. He then 
taught school for four terms, and later be- 
came a farmer, and has made this his occu- 
pation. He has been something of a traveler, 
having visited various sections of the country, 
both east and west. He was married, at Mt. 
Joy, Pa., in 1868, to Miss Annie Herr, born 
in Lancaster county, in 1847, daughter of 
Abraham and Ann (Riehr) Herr. After 
marriage he took up his residence with his 
father on the old homestead, which, in 1S70, 
he bought from his father, and which now 
contains two hundred and sixty acres. His 
children are : Albert, Mamie, John, Herman, 
Cyrus, and Annie. Mr. Shenk is an inde- 
pendent voter with Republican p references. 
He has held the office of school director for 
many years, and also that of auditor and 
other offices. He has never connected him- 
self with any church, and has always held 
that people should not be divided by relig- 
ious prejudices and preferences, and would 
prefer to call all men brethren. He has 
taken a deep interest in Sunday-schools, and 
in early li*e served as superintendent at the 
local school. He is treasurer of his district, 
and is esteemed by all as an upright 
man. 



Shenk, Samuel, was born in Conewago 
township Dauphin county, Pa., February 
12,1849; son of Henry Shenk. John, the 
grandfather, was born in Dauphin count}', 
and was a farmer. He married a Miss Buck, 
by whom he had four daughters and two 
sons. He died in Conewago township, and 
his wife survived him some years Henry, 
the father, was also born in Conewago town- 
ship, June 18, 1805, was educated in the 
district school, grew to manhood, and was 
married, in Derry township, to Miss Mary 
Kellar, native of Dauphin county. He set- 
tled on a farm of one hundred and fourteen 
acres in Conewago township, which he had 
bought previous to his marriage, and farmed 
there for some years. His wife died and he 
went to live with his son, where he died, in 
1894. Their children are: Josiah, Columbia, 
Pa.; John and Henry, died young; Jacob, 
Lebanon, Pa.; and Samuel R., educated in 
the district schools of his native township 
and grew to manhood on his father's farm. 
He was married, in Derry township, where 
he was temporarily residing at the time, to 
Miss Mary E. Shenauer, born in Upper 
Swatara township, Dauphin county, daugh- 
ter of George and Kate Gingrich, both na- 
tives of Dauphin county. To this marriage 
there is no issue. He had been previously 
married to Lizzie Farver, who died, having 
born two children: Kate, died in infancy, 
and Lavinia Alice. After marriage he took 
up his residence on the farm of one hundred 
and fourteen acres, bought from his father, 
which he occupied for about sixteen years. 
In 1892 he rented the farm and moved to 
his present place, which contains seventeen 
acres of land, and has a fine house, barn and 
all modern improvements. Mr. Shenk is a 
strong Republican in politics and has been 
school director and filled other minor offices. 
Mrs. Shenk lived at home with her parents 
until her marriage. She is one of seven 
children: Mary. Mrs. Shenk: Annie: Mar- 
tin; Emma, died young; Adam: John, died 
in infancy : and Mina. 



Witmee, Peter, Bach mans ville, Ta.. was 
born in Dauphin county, Pa., June 25, 1821 : 
son of Peter and Esther (Burkholder) Wit- 
mer. He acquired his education in the sub- 
scription schools of Dauphin and Lancaster 
counties, and completed his course before 
the public schools were established. He 
learned the trade of cooper, at which he 



44 



668 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



served an apprenticeship of one year and 
then worked at the trade in the winter 
months for ten years, working at farm work 
in the summer months. He was married, 
November 20, 1851, to Miss Nancy Lehman, 
daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth Lehman, 
by whom he has four children : Elizabeth, 
wife of Jacob G. Brandt ; John L., married 
Miss Eliza Shenk, resides in Lancaster 
county ; Hettie L., wife of Christian G. 
Brandt ; Aaron L., married Miss Elizabeth 
Lehman, residing on the old homestead. In 
1839 Mr. Witmer went to Lancaster county, 
where he was engaged in farming for nineteen 
years, and has spent in all thirty-three years 
in that county. In 1872 he returned to Dau- 
phin county and occupied the farm on which 
he has had his residence since that time. 
Mr. Witmer is a good Republican in his po- 
litical views, and in 1875 was elected a school 
director of Conewago township, in which 
office he has served for nine years. In re- 
ligious fellowship and faith he is associated 
with the Mennonite church. 

The parents of Mr. Witmer were natives 
of Dauphin county. His father was a farmer 
and also owned a grist mill. He married 
Elizabeth Lehman, daughter of Jacob and 
Maria Lehman. They had eight children, 
seven of whom survive : Henry, Nancy, 
Barbara, Poll} 7 , Elizabeth, Katie, Daniel and 
one child died young. The mother died at 
the age of forty-two years. The father then 
married Mrs. Nancy Birks, widow of John 
Birks, by whom he had eight children : 
Annie ; Sarah, wife of Rev. Henry Bucher ; 
Daniel; Peter; Susan, wife of Daniel Long- 
enecker; David; Lydia, deceased ; and Mat- 
tie, deceased. The father died, aged seventy- 
nine years. His widow still survives and 
resides in Eranklin county. 



Bowers, Abraham, was born in Lancas- 
ter county, Pa., January 18, 1820 ; son of 
Christopher and Magdaline Bowers. The 
parents were both born at Wurtemberg, 
Germany, and came to this country in their 
youth, the father being a general laborer. 
He had eleven children, of whom the only 
survivor is Abraham. The father died at 
the age of seventy-five years, and the 
mother at the age of fifty-five years, and 
both passed away in Lancaster county. 

Abraham attended the pay and public 
schools and worked on the home farm until 
he was seventeen years of age, when he began 



an apprenticeship at the blacksmith trade, 
in which he served three years, and then 
worked at his trade until 1891, when he re- 
tired from business. He was married, De- 
cember 21, 1843, by Rev. Jacob Stein, to 
Miss Madeline Sanders, daughter of Fred- 
erick and Catherine (Beam) Sanders, to 
whom have been born two children : Israel, 
born January 15, 1855, and Barbara, died 
August 1, 1873, aged twenty-five years. Mr. 
Bowers is a Republican in politics and 
served as constable of Conewago township 
one year, and also as inspector of elections. 
He came to Dauphin county in 1840, and 
in 1892 moved to the farm on which he 
now resides. He is in fellowship with the 
United Brethren church. 

Mrs. Bowers was born August 21, 1821, 
and died at the age of seventy-six years. 
Her parents were both natives of Germany, 
and came to America when young, and 
reared a family. The father was a farmer ; 
both are deceased, the mother dying in 1859. 

Israel, the only son and living child of 
Abraham Bowers, has been engaged in farm- 
ing for the past twelve years, and since 1892 
has occupied and cultivated his father's 
farm. He was married, November 29, 1882, 
to Miss Amanda Shoemaker, daughter of 
Charles and Caroline (Yeager) Shoemaker, 
and they had two children, both deceased, 
Edward, died October 31, 1895, aged nine 
years, and Abraham, died October 11, 1894, 
aged seven years. 

Mr. Bowers is a Republican and has been 
elected to several offices. He served as in- 
spector of elections two years, and in 1888 
was elected tax collector for Conewago town- 
ship, and served one year, and in 1889 was 
elected school director and served three 
years. He is a member of the United Breth- 
ren church, as is also his wife, Amanda. 
She was born March 18, 1868, and her 
parents were both natives of Lehigh county. 
The father was a hotel keeper in that county, 
and removed to Dauphin county in 1872, 
and kept the hotel at Hummelstown for 
many years. He married Miss Caroline 
Yeager, daughter of Jacob and Lydia Yea- 
ger, and they had thirteen children. In 
1880 he went on a farm in Derry town- 
ship and cultivated it for fourteen years, 
and then retired, and is now living at Hum- 
melstown. He is a Republican in politics. 
His wife is a Lutheran and he is a member 
of the Evangelical church. 



fhiri'IIIN COUNTY. 



069 



DERRY TOWNSHIP. 



Walton, Allen, Hummelstown, was born 
in Chester count}', Pa , August 24, 1S35. His 
parents moved to Philadelphia when he was 
one year old. lie was educated in that city, 
and learned the trade of machinist. For 
about ten years he was engaged in plumb- 
ing and steam and gas-fitting, in Philadel- 
phia. In 1N07 lie came to Hummelstown, 
and was made superintendent of the Penn- 
sylvania Brown Freestone Company. In 
1875 this company was sold out at sheriff's 
sale. Mr. Walton was the purchaser of the 
property and business. He made improve- 
ments in the machinery and enlarged the 
operations. In 1885 he built the railroad to 
his quarries, known as the Hummelstown 
and Brownstone railroad, in which he owns 
the controlling interest, and is president of 
the company. He is also a stockholder in 
the Hummelstown National Bank and its 
vice-president. He owns the controlling in- 
terest in the electric light plant and in the 
Hummelstown Water Works. He was mar- 
ried, in 1859, to Miss Emma J. Koehlen- 
kamp, of Philadelphia. They have two 
children: Allen K. and Robert J. Mr. Wal- 
ton was brought up in the Society of Friends. 
His family are members of the Lutheran 
church. 



Nissley, John J., cashier of the Hummels- 
town National Bank, was born in Derry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., October 22, 1832. 
He is a son of Christian and Nancy (Funck) 
Nissley. His grandfather, John Nissley, one 
of the very early settlers of Dauphin county, 
was a farmer and died in Derry township in 
1830. His wife was Esther Ober, who died 
in Hummelstown in 1807, aged ninety-one 
years. They had two children : Christian, 
and a daughter, Francis, who married Dan- 
iel Neidig, became a widow, and afterwards 
married Abraham Land is, and settled in 
Derry township. 

Christian Nissley was born in Derry town- 
ship in 1806, and died in 1847. He was a 
farmer, miller and distiller. He took an 
active part in establishing the free school 
system and was elected the first school di- 
rector in his township. He belonged to the 
old Whig party. He married Nancy Funck 
and had eight children : Mary, wife of Isaac 
Mumma, of Highspire; Rev. Joseph Nissley, 
of Derry township ; John J.; Martin F. mer- 
chant in Hummelstown : Anna, of Middle- 



town ; S. R., practicing physician, of Eliza- 
bethtown ; Lee H., of Middletown, formerly 
cashier of the bank of that town; and Capt. 
C. A., who died December 25, 1887 ; he was 
formerly a merchant in Hummelstown, but 
in 1862 enlisted as private in company C, 
One Hundred and Twenty-seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers. Pie was 
transferred to company I, of the same regi- 
ment, and promoted to its captaincy. 

John J. Nissley was reared in Derry town- 
ship and educated in its common schools 
and at Chamberlain's Commercial College, 
Baltimore, Md. When he was twenty-one 
he and his brother, Capt. C. A. Nissley, came 
to Hummelstown and purchased the mer- 
cantile business of Col. George T. Hummel, 
which they conducted until 1808. In the 
management of this mercantile business Mr. 
Nissley recognized the need and opportunity 
of the conveniences which only a good bank 
can supply to the business community, and 
impressed with the belief that such a finan- 
cial institution would be appreciated by 
business men, and would contribute to the 
prosperity and growth of the place, he organ- 
ized a private bank, which became known 
as the Hummelstown Bank, and which was 
prosperous from the start. His recognized 
success in this enterprise convinced the com- 
munity of the desirableness of enlarging the 
capacity and scope of the bank, and, conse- 
quently, in 1882, a national bank was organ- 
ized and Mr. Nissley was chosen its cashier. 
This important position he has filled since 
that time, having full charge of the business 
of the bank, and administering its trusts in a 
manner that has inspired the utmost confi- 
dence of business men and has insured grati- 
fying returns to the stockholders. 

During his business career Mr. Nissley has 
found time to look after other commercial 
and industrial enterprises, which have pro- 
moted the welfare of the place. In 1856 he 
became secretary of the Hummelstown Fire 
Insurance Company, serving as its secretary 
and manager until 1893, when he was suc- 
ceeded by hi< son. and he is also a charter 
member and a director of the Hummelstown 
Brownstone Company. 

While industriously and intelligently em- 
ployed in promoting the material prosperity 
of himself and community Mr. Nissley has 
not been unmindful or negligent of his 
higher and spiritual interests. In 1800 he 
became a member of the Reformed church 
on public profession of his faith, and from 



670 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the beginning of his religious life has been 
active and devoted in the performance of his 
duties. He was early called into the office 
of the eldership and for years has been the 
superintendent of the Sunday-school. He 
has frequently been the representative of the 
local church in the higher ecclesiastical 
bodies and takes an active part in the gen- 
eral business and enterprises of his denomi- 
nation, bestowing upon these matters, which 
are of a business character, the same distin- 
guished ability and fidelity which have char- 
acterized him in his business career. Few, 
if any, men of his denomination are more 
widely or favorably known or have been 
honored with as important trusts as those 
which have been placed in Mr. Nissley's 
hands. In 1870 he was made a member of 
the board of trustees of the Eastern Synod 
of the Reformed Church in the United 
States of America and he has also filled the 
responsible position of treasurer of that 
synod for twenty years. 

Mr. Nissley has been for many years one 
of the board of trustees of the Theological 
Seminary at Lancaster. He is a prominent 
member of the joint Board of Home Mis- 
sions of the Eastern and Potomac Synod, re- 
ceiving and dispersing all the money of this 
board as its treasurer, and has discharged 
these duties at a cost of much personal care 
and outlay of money with a willing and 
cheerful spirit. In early manhood he was a 
supporter of the Know-Nothing party, but 
united with the Republican party at its or- 
ganization. 

In 1856 Mr. Nissley was married to Miss 
Kate, daughter of John TJbil,of York county. 
They have two children : Annie L., who 
married Rev. J. F. Moyer, pastor of the Re- 
formed church, of Altoona, Pa., and has one 
child, Ruth Nissley ; J. Paul, born May 7, 
1869, educated in the borough schools and 
at Harrisburg, is a clerk in the Hummels- 
town National Bank, was married in Feb- 
ruary 1894, to Miss Caroline L., daughter of 
Dr. Thomas G. Fox, of Hummelstown. The 
deceased children of John J. and Kate Niss- 
ley are: Ada Virginia, wife of Burd Zell, 
died in 1884, and Grace, born September 28, 
1876, died June 21, 1879. 



Ulrich, William H, cashier of the Fann- 
ers' Bank, Hummelstown, Pa., was born in 
Lower Swatara township, Dauphin county, 
June 7, 1844 ; son of Adam and Mary Ulrich. 



He was educated in the public schools of the 
township and of Middletown. He prepared 
himself for teaching and for several years 
taught school in Lancaster county and after- 
- wards in his native township. For two years 
he was assistant in the Middletown Academy. 
He then exchanged the school room for the 
farm, working for five years at the homestead. 
While teaching and farming he had been 
studying civil engineering under Prof. Ross, 
and having fitted himself for that profession 
he left the farm and devoted himself to its 
labors. He was employed at different times 
as civil engineer by the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company, the National Pipe Line 
Company, and Miller, Graff & Co., coal oper- 
ators. He was forced to suspend his work 
for the last-named company on account of 
the disturbances caused by the " Mollv Mc- 
Guires." 

In 1885 he became one of the organizers of 
the Farmers' Bank and in 1S92 was elected 
its cashier, which position he has ever since 
held. He is a director and the secretary of 
the Cameron Furnace Company, of Middle- 
town ; he has been for many years a director 
in the Annville Mutual Fire Insurance 
Company, and was one of the organizers 
and is a director of the Hummelstown Elec- 
tric Light Company. Mr. Ulrich is also 
largely interested in agriculture. He is the 
owner of six farms, lying in Lebanon, Dau- 
phin and Franklin counties. He is a 
Republican in opinions and actions. In 
1874 he was elected county surveyor and 
served in that office two terms. In 1886 he 
was elected prothonotary and clerk of the 
Court of Quarter Sessions of Dauphin county 
and was re-elected in 1889, serving six years. 
At the end of his term of office he took a trip 
through Florida for his health. Mr. Ulrich 
is a member of Perseverance Lodge, F. & A. 
M., of Harrisburg ; of the Patriotic Order 
Sons of America, and Junior Order United 
American Mechanics. He was married, in 
1869, to Miss Kate E. Bowman, of Lebanon 
county. They have no children. They are 
members of the United Brethren church. 
Mr. Ulrich has been for many years super- 
intendent of the Sunday-school. He takes 
an active interest both in the local church 
and in general denomination work. He has 
for many years been a trustee of the Lebanon 
Valley College. He is a director of the Mt. 
Gretna Campmeeting Association and of the 
Pennsylvania Chautauqua. 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



671 



Baker, W. 0., M. D., Hummelstown, Pa., 
was born in Chester count}', Pa., January 10, 
1850. He was educated in the public school 
and in the Millersville Normal School. He 
read medicine under Dr. Henry Carpenter, 
of Lancaster, and Prof. Frothingham, of the 
University of Michigan, where he attended 
lectures for two terms. He was graduated 
from the University of Pennsylvania in 
1S74. He practiced for six months in Mari- 
etta, Lancaster county. In December, 1874, 
he came to Hummelstown as successor to 
Dr. Roebuck, and now has an extensive 
practice in this part of the count}'. He is 
physician for the Hummelstown Brownstone 
Company and the Brownstone and Middle- 
town Railroad Company. 

Ee was one of the organizers of the Farm- 
ers' Bank, and is now its vice-president. He 
was one of the organizers and is a large 
stockholder in the Hummelstown Electric 
Light Company. Dr. Baker is a partner 
with II. G. Walmer in the milk and cream- 
ery business. He is a member of Persever- 
ance Lodge, No. 21, F. & A. M., of Harris- 
burg. He takes an active part in politics in 
connection with the Republican party. He 
was married, in 1875, to Miss Anna, daugh- 
ter of Diller Bare, of Lancaster county. 
They have three children : Maude, Gertrude 
and Zelma. 



Walmer, Henry G., of the firm of Wal- 
mer & Fox, carriage and sleigh manufactur- 
ers, Hummelstown, Pa., was born in Hum- 
melstown in 1S45. He is a son of Samuel 
and Catherine (Gilbert) Walmer. Samuel 
Walmer was born in Lebanon county. In 
1843 he came to Hummelstown and began 
the manufacture of carriages, which he con- 
tinued until his death, in 1872. He was a 
prominent member of the United Brethren 
church, and assisted in building the church 
edifice. His politics were Republican. His 
wife, who survives him, is a native of Leb- 
anon county. They have live children liv- 
ing: Emma W., widow of W. W. Reed, of 
Hummelstown: Henry G.; Minnie, wife of 
S. M. Killough, of Hummelstown: Clara. 
wife of Henry Bare, of New York city, and 
Mary, wife of W. R. Fox, of Hummelstown. 
Henry G. Walmer was educated in the 
Hummelstown public schools, the < Hterbein 
College, Westerville, Ohio, and Eastman's 
Commercial College. I'oughkeepsie, N. Y. 
lie entered the counting-room of James 
K till. San I re iV < '<->., dry goods. Third -In el. 



Philadelphia, where he was employed for 
some time. He then returned home and 
assisted in his father's business until, in 
1872, his father died. He was made execu- 
tor of the estate, and continued the business 
until 1876. At that date the existing firm 
of Walmer & Fox was organized. In 1889 
he and Dr. W. C. Baker established a 
" Model Creamery," and built a chop mill 
in connection with it. In politics Mr. Wal- 
mer acts with the Republican party. He is 
president of the borough council. He was 
married, in 1876, to Miss Anna Elizabeth, 
daughter of Christian Hoffer. Their chil- 
dren are : Reed, Samuel R. and Clara B. 



Cassel, David B., tanner and currier, 
Hummelstown, Pa., was born in South Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., Octo- 
ber 17, 1854. He is a son of Uriah and Bar- 
bara (Hocker) Cassel. He was educated in 
the township schools. He learned the tan- 
ner's trade of his father, and has followed 
this occupation through life. In 1877 he 
came to Hummelstown and opened a tan- 
nery. He was burned out in 1890. After 
this misfortune he built the currier shop 
which he now occupies. Mr. Cassel is a 
member of the Junior Order United Ameri- 
can Mechanics. He was married, in 1880, 
to Miss Ida A. Hoffer, daughter of Christian 
Hoffer. They have five children : Christian 
Uriah, Agnes Marie, Romaine, George Ed- 
mund, and Daniel A. Mr. Cassel and his 
family are members of the Lutheran church. 



Siplk, W. H., lumber dealer, Hummels- 
town, Pa., was born in Middletown, Pa., 
January 1, 1844. He is a son of Henry and 
Susan (Light) Siple. Henry Siple was born 
in Middletown in 1803. His father was 
Christian Siple, one of the early settlers of 
Dauphin county, a gunsmith; he died in 
Middletown. Henry Siple conducted a store 
on a canal boat, the business of which was 
to furnish goods to merchants along the 
Union canal. 1 lealso boated lumber to Phila- 
delphia. He afterwards became a partner in 
the firm of Cobaugh A: Siple, later Siple A - Car- 
many, dealers in lumber, at Middletown. 
He was in this business for many years. He 
was one of the organizers and a director of 
the Middletown Market Company, and a 
stockholder in the car work-, and in the 
cemetery association. His politics were Re- 
publican. He was an elder in the Church 
of God, and a member of its building com- 



672 



BIO GRA PEIVAL ENCYVL 0PED1A 



mittee. He died in 1879. His wife, Susan 
Light, survives with four of their children : 
Henrietta, W. H., Nelson W. T., of Phila- 
delphia, and Henry R., of Chicago, 111. 

W. H. Siple was educated in the public 
schools of Middletown, where he was reared, 
and at Mechanicsburg, Pa. He was em- 
ployed in the lumber business with his 
father until his father's retirement, and after 
his death, in 1879, he succeeded to the busi- 
ness, and became a partner in the firm of 
Etter, Carmany & Siple, which carried on 
business for nine years. In 1881 he came 
to Hummelstown and established the busi- 
ness in which he is still engaged, known as 
the Hummelstown Mills and Lumber Com- 
pany. He is at present the manager and 
treasurer of this company. He aided in the 
organization of the Hummelstown Water 
Company, and is one of its directors and its 
superintendent. In 1861 he enlisted in 
company H, One Hundred and Twenty- 
seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served in the army nine months. He 
participated in the battles of Chancellorsville 
and Fredericksburg. Mr. Siple is a Repub- 
lican. He is president of the borough school 
board. He has served as president of both 
the Middletown and Hummelstown coun- 
cils. He is a member of Henderson Post, 
No. 443, G. A. R., and was the first com- 
mander of the post. He is a member of the 
Junior Order United American Mechanics. 
He was married, in 1872, to Miss Alice E., 
daughter of George \V. Etter, of Middletown. 
Their three children are: Bertha R, George 
E., and Willard. Mr. Siple is a member of 
the Reformed church of Hummelstown. 



Wall, Richard J., dentist, Hummels- 
town, Pa., was born in Philadelphia, Pa., 
May 1, 1865. He is a son of Richard and 
Elizabeth (Westcott) Wall. His father was 
a native of county Cork, Ireland. He was 
a sea captain, and part owner of a merchant 
sailing vessel, and engaged in traffic in all 
parts of the globe. While he was yet a 
young man he became an officer in the 
British navy. He commanded a battery in 
the Sepoy Rebellion, and marched from Cal- 
cutta to Lucknow, a distance of nine hun- 
dred miles, through a densely settled country, 
jiarticipating in many battles. He came to 
this country, and in 1867 retired from all 
marine service, and engaged in business in 
Philadelphia. In 1869 he came to Hum- 
melstown and became foreman in the Brown-' 



stone quarries, where he was employed until 
1893 ; at this date he retired from active 
business. He is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity; politically, a Democrat; by church 
membership, a Lutheran. He was married 
in Newfoundland to Elizabeth Westcott. 
They have had eight children, of whom 
seven are living : Cora, wife of Wells Grove, of 
Harrisburg ; Richard J.; Charles B.; Lillie 
J., wife of Peter Hummel, of Philadelphia ; 
Emma J., Archibald, and Florence J., all of 
Hummelstown. 

Richard J. Wall was educated in the 
Hummelstown schools. He studied den- 
tistry under Dr. Christ, of Hummelstown, 
and graduated from the University of Penn- 
sylvania in 1887 ; he has since that time 
been engaged in the practice of his profes- 
sion. In 1890 he married Miss Elizabeth 
May, daughter of H. J. Hummel, of Hum- 
melstown. They have three children : 
Richard C, Margerie M., and Mary Esther. 
Mr. and Mrs. Wall are members of the Lu- 
theran church. In politics he is a Demo- 
crat. He is a member of the Patriotic Order 
Sons of America and Capital City Lodge, 
No. 301, I. 0. 0. F., Harrisburg. 



Walton, Robert J., superintendent of the 
Hummelstown Brownstone Company, was 
born in Philadelphia, Pa., June 12, 1863, and 
is the son of Allen and Emma J. (Koehlen- 
kamp) Walton. His parents removing to 
Hummelstown in 1867, he received his edu- 
cation here, in the public schools. In 1885 
he married Miss Carrie, daughter of Dr. 
Jacob Shope, of Hummelstown. Their chil- 
dren are : Robert J., Jr., and Emma J. Mr. 
Walton and his family are members of the 
Lutheran church. Politically he is a Re- 
publican. 

Snavely, Joseph, was born in Lebanon, 
Pa., June 4, 1793. He was the son of John 
and Gertrude (Boehm) Snavely, Penns.ylva- 
nians, of German ancestry, and was one of 
four children born to these worthy parents. 
Joseph Snavely attended the subscription 
schools of his birthplace and worked on his 
father's farm until he was twenty-one years 
of age. His father then purchased a farm 
and hotel near Annville, and put him in 
charge of them, thus starting him in busi- 
ness for himself. He conducted this busi- 
ness for a number of years, making much im- 
provement in the property, and was reason- 
ably successful. He was a very popular 



DAUPHIN COUNT!'. 



(373 



landlord and surrounded himself with many 
warm friends. After selling the farm and 
hotel he removed to Annville, where he 
spent several years. Finally he removed 
to Dauphin county and located in Derry 
township, where he bought a farm of fifty 
acres; this he improved and cultivated until 
his death. He was married, in Lebanon, 
June 15, 1820, to Catherine, daughter of 
Abraham Light, a prominent farmer of Leba- 
non county. She was born in Lebanon, De- 
cember 12, 1800. They had ten children: 
Edward, deceased, who was a soldier in the 
Mexican war; Amanda, died young; Melinda, 
deceased, wife of Simon Mutch, of Lancaster 
county; Peremilia, deceased, wife of Isaac 
Wolfberger, of Kansas; Moses, died voung; 
John H., killed July 9, 1894, in Wisconsin ; 
Orpha L., wife of Thomas Lyons, a sketch of 
whom appears elsewhere in this volume, and 
who resides on the homestead; Peninah, 
wife of Solomon Bechtel ; Joseph, resides on 
the homestead ; Hannah, wife of Dr. Ellinger, 
of Topeka, Kan. Mr. Suavely died in Au- 
gust, 1873, his wife May 3, 1874. He was 
widely and favorably known and universally 
esteemed as an honest and upright man. 
He was industrious in his business, very 
genial and kindly in his manner, and easily 
approachable by all. His politics were 
Democratic. He was a member of the Metho- 
dist Episcopal church. 



Lyons, Thomas, husband of Orpha Snavely, 
daughter of Joseph Snavely, was born in 
county Cork, Ireland, in I860. He is a son 
of John and Mary (Keller) Lyons. He at- 
tended school in Cork. At the age of twenty 
he came to America and located in the State 
of New York, where he found employment, 
and remained there until 1884. He then 
came to Hummelstown, and was employed for 
a year or more by the railroad company. 
In 1885 he married Miss Snavely and located 
upon the farm ; he is now devoting his atten- 
tion to its cultivation and improvement; he 
conducts his business with energy and in- 
dustry, and is very successful. He is an hon- 
orable man, social in his intercourse with 
others and has made many friends in the 
community in which he resides. 



Shope, Dr. Jacor, Hummelstown, was 
born in Lower Paxton township. Dauphin 
county, Pa., September 6, L819. He is a son 
of Abraham and Elizabeth (Wasser) Shope. 
Abraham Shope was born in the same town- 



ship. He is a son of Jacob Shope, also a 
native of Lower Paxton township, and of 
German descent. Abraham Shope was a 
weaver and farmer, a Whig in politics and 
a member of the Church of God, and sub- 
sequently of the Evangelical church. He 
died in Lower Paxton township in 1854. 
His wife was born in Lower Paxton and was 
a daughter of John Wasser, a surgeon in the 
Swiss army. Their children were: John, 
Abraham, Jacob, David, Elizabeth, and one 
who died in infancy. Elizabeth (Wasser) 
Shope died in 1826. Abraham Shope's 
second marriage was with Elizabeth McFad- 
den,bornin Dauphin county, and of Scotch- 
Irish descent. They had eight children : 
Elisha, George, Mary, Cornelius, Priscilla, 
Adam, Susanna, and one other who died 
young. The second Mrs. Shope died in 
Oberlin, Pa. 

Jacob Shope attended the district and sub- 
scription schools of his township until he 
was fourteen years old. He then went to 
Harrisburg, and learned printing with the 
Gospel Publishing Company, at the head of 
which was John Winebrenner. He was 
with this company for three years. Having 
learned his trade he went to Philadelphia, 
and was employed for six months on the 
Morning Star, a newspaper edited by John 
Bausman. He then returned to Harrisburg 
and worked for one year on the Telegraph. 

At the earnest request of his uncle, Dr. 
David Shope, a prominent and successful 
physician, he removed to Hummelstown in 
1840, and began to study medicine with his 
uncle as his preceptor. After two and a half 
years of hard study, under the able instruc- 
tions of his uncle, he was prepared to begin 
practice ; he then went to Middletown and 
opened an office. His uncle having died, he 
was earnestly solicited by that physician's 
patrons to return to Hummelstown and take 
his uncle's practice. To this request he ac- 
ceded and has been continuously in practice 
there for thirty years. He has been eminently 
successful and has gathered around him a 
host of warmly attached friends. In 1860 
he determined to enter the army am! weni 
to Harrisburg to enlist, but the citizens of 
Hummelstown so urgently entreated him 
not to abandon his practice, that he reluc- 
tantly gave up his intention and returned. 
In 1861 he engaged in the drug ami hard- 
ware business, which he has since carried on 
with a fair share of success. He has also 
been interested in agriculture, having bought 



674 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



two farms which, after cultivating and im- 
proving them, he sold again. 

Dr. Shope was one of the founders of the 
National Bank of Hummelstown, is a direc- 
tor and has been its president for the past 
five years. He was the oi'iginator and for a 
number of years president of the fire depart- 
ment. He was the organizer and is presi- 
dent of the Hummelstown Cemetery Asso- 
ciation. The Doctor was one of the foremost 
promoters of the grading of the streets of 
Hummelstown, and also one of the promoters 
of the incorporation of the borough. He was 
treasurer of Derry township in the putting 
in of substitutes for the army during the late 
Rebellion. For twelve years he served as 
school director and has always been active 
in matters pertaining to the welfare of the 
county, and during his early years was an 
active politician. 

He was married, in Hummelstown, in 1843, 
to Esther Mann, a native of Hummelstown, 
and a daughter of Charles E. Mann, a 
butcher and a native of Germany. They 
had eight children : Charles D., killed in the 
war of 1861-65, a sergeant major in the One 
Hundred and Seventh regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers; Elizabeth, widow of Sam- 
uel Bear ; Ernest, a quarryman, living in 
Hummelstown ; Addie E., living at home ; 
Agnes M., wife of C. Nissley Mumma, hard- 
ware merchant of Steelton ; Carrie M., wife 
of Robert J. Walton, a sketch of whom ap- 
pears on another page; Sophia M., and Alice, 
who died in infancy. 

Dr. Shope has been for half a century a 
resident in his present home. He has seen 
vast improvements in the town and much 
advancement in the elements of refinement 
and civilization. Of this progress he has 
been not onty an observer but an active 
promoter. He is both prominent and pop- 
ular, being a man of kind, genial manners. 
In politics he is Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church. 



Fox, Thomas G., M. D., was born in Hum- 
melstown, Pa., July 19, 1827, and is the son 
of George and Elizabeth (Eshenour) Fox. 
George Fox was born in Derry township, 
Dauphin county. He is a son of John and 
Margaret (Rupert) Fox, the former a native 
of Devonshire, England, the latter of Hol- 
land. He was reared on the farm and be- 
came proprietor of the Golden House, in 
Hummelstown. He was a Whig, and was 



postmaster of Hummelstown for thirty -five 
years. He was an exemplary citizen, ac- 
tive in all reformatory and progressive move- 
ments. He and his wife were members of 
the Lutheran church. He died in 1856, and 
his wife, who was a native of Dauphin 
county, died in 1862. They reared a family 
of sons, who all became useful and notable 
men. Theyare: Richard, farmer and dealer 
in stock; John E., deceased, a successful 
banker in Philadelphia, died leaving an ex- 
tensive estate ; James, a prominent lawyer 
in Harrisburg, district attorney, member of 
the Legislature for three terms, a brilliant 
orator ; George, deceased ; Abner, farmer at 
Danville, 111., and Thomas G. 

The latter attended the subscription school 
in Hummelstown until he was fourteen, 
when he went 'to Harrisburg to learn print- 
ing. He spent four years in the office of 
the Telegraph; at the end of this time he 
went to Philadelphia and was employed for 
two years as clerk in the Exchange Bank. 
The next three years he spent in the study 
of medicine, takingthe regular course in the 
Jefferson Medical College, from which insti- 
tution he was graduated, with honors, in 
1852. He returned at once to Hummels- 
town and opened an office for the practice 
of medicine. He was a skillful physician, 
and met with gratifying success. He con- 
tinued in practice until 1873, when he re- 
tired from active professional duties. Dr. 
Fox has been somewhat conspicuous in poli- 
tics in connection with the Republican 
party. He was a member of the Legislature 
for two years ; was elected prothonotary of 
Dauphin county for two terms ; served as 
school director of Hummelstown and Derry 
township for sixteen years. 

He was married, in Hummelstown, May 
11, 1852, to Diana, daughter of Henry and 
Mary (Landis) Hershey, born July 12, 1832, 
in Derry township. They had nine chil- 
dren : Dr. L. Webster, a very prominent ocu- 
list of Philadelphia ; Elizabeth ; James G., 
farmer, of Chester county, Pa.; John E., a 
well-known attorney in Harrisburg; Addie, 
wife of J. H. Gay, carpet manufacturer, of 
Philadelphia ; Mary H; Caroline, wife of 
John P. Nissley, of Hummelstown; George 
H, medical student in Philadelphia, and 
one child who died young. Dr. Fox has 
substantial interests in real estate. He is 
the owner of six hundred acres of land. He 
is enterprising and progressive and is highly 
esteemed. Mr. and Mrs. Fox are popular in 



DMIPniN COUNTY. 



675 



social circles, are active in promoting the 
welfare of the community, and are members 
of the Lutheran church. 



Nissley, Martin F., general merchant) 
llummelstown, was born in Derry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., September 18, 1837. 
He is a son of Christian Nissley, a sketch of 
whom appears with the sketch of John J. 
Nissley in this volume. He took the usual 
course in the schools of his native township. 
His business was that of farming and he re- 
mained on the homestead farm until 1863. 
He then enlisted in company E, Thirty- 
sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served three months. When discharged 
from the army he returned home and re- 
mained for two years upon the farm. In 
1865 he removed to Hummelstown and dealt 
in live stock for four years. He finally went 
into the butchering business which he car- 
ried on successfully for ten years. In 1883 
he bought the interest of his brother in a 
general store and has continued in this busi- 
ness to the present time. His marked suc- 
cess in establishing and enlarging his trade 
demonstrates bis ability as a merchant. He 
is well informed as to the needs and demands 
of his patrons, is a skillful buyer, progressive, 
enterprising and genial. To name these 
qualities of the man and the merchant is 
sufficient to account for his success. 

.Mr. Nissley is also public-spirited. Al- 
though not an active politician, he is will- 
ing, as a good citizen, to render such services 
as his fellow-citizens may ask of him. His 
political preferences are with the Republican 
party. He was a school director for six years 
and a member of the town council for two 
terms. He is a memberof the United Brethren 
church. He was married, in Hummelstown, 
in 1865, to Maggie Greenawalt, of Hummels- 
town, a daughter of Samuel ( Jreenawalt, pro- 
duce dealer of that town. They had three 
children: Clara, wife of George V. IIuM'er, 
implement dealer of Hummelstown ; Harry, 
clerk in his father's store; and one child 
who died young. His wife died in 1872. 
He was married again, in llummelstown, in 
1879, to Mary, daughter of William Shatters, 
blacksmith, of Hummelstown. They have 
three children: Ross, Grace and Bernicia, 
all attending school. Mr. Nissley is a mem- 
ber of State Capita] Lodge, No."70, I. <>.<>. 
F., of I [arrisburg. 



Curry, John B., grain and coal dealer, 
Swatara, Fa., was born in Derry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., December 29, 1856. 
He is a son of Conrad and Catherine (Ba- 
shore) Curry. Conrad Curry also was born 
in Dauphin county, the son of Samuel Curry, 
a carpenter of that county, of Scotch-Irish 
descent. He was brought up on the farms of 
his neighbors until twenty-one years, when 
he learned the milling trade and made it his 
occupation, up to the year 1884; he then 
transferred the business to his son, John I!. 
He was married in Derry township, where 
his wife, Catherine Bashore, was born. They 
had three children ; John B., Samuel B., 
grain dealer and miller, of Lebanon, Pa., 
and Mary, who died young. Mr. Curry is a 
Republican and a member of the United 
Brethren church. He resides with his son, 
John B. He is a genial man and much 
respected. 

John B. Curry attended the schools of 
his native township in winter, and worked 
on the farm in summer.until he was twenty 
years old. He then learned the milling 
trade with his father, and worked with him 
until 1884, when his father relinquished the 
business, leaving it solely in his manage- 
ment. He met with reasonable success, but 
being desirous of extending his operations, 
he took the warehouse at Swatara, owned by 
Isaac Erb, and traded in grain and coal. 
He was married, in Lebanon county, Pa., in 
lssn. to Emma, one of the six children of 
John Kreider, of Lebanon county. They 
have seven children : Irwin, Amnion, Amos, 
Mary, Henry, John K. and Catherine, all 
attending school. Mr. Curry is a Republi- 
can in politics. He is a member of the 
United Christian church. He has from his 
youth been a hard working and very busy 
man. He has always been recognized as a 
man of sound judgment in business matters, 
and is prudent, careful and enterprising. His 
business capacity, coupled with strict integ- 
rity, have made him a successful and an 
honored man. 



Kleinfelter, Joseph, proprietor of the 
Keystone Motel, llummelstown. Pa., was 
born in Kleinfeltersville, Lebanon county. 
Pa., October 4, 1854. lie i- a son of John 
and Elizabeth (Behm) Kleinfelter. John 
Kleinfelter is well and widely known in 
Lebanon and Dauphin counties, lie has 
been a fanner and slock raiser, and has been 



676 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENVYCL OPEDIA 



successful in his business. His present resi- 
dence is at Annville, Lebanon county, where, 
retired from business, he and his estimable 
wife are quietly enjoying the fruits of their 
labors in other days. He is a Republican. 
Both Mr. and Mrs. Kleinfelter are members 
of the Evangelical church. He married 
Elizabeth Behm, a native of Lebanon county. 
They had seven children: Sarah, wife of U. 
S.Carpman,of Lebanon county; Joseph; Katie, 
wife of Jacob Winters, farmer, of West Han- 
over; John, farmer of Berkeley county, W. 
Va.; Lizzie, wife of David Shank, farmer, of 
Annville; Mary, wife of John Walbrun, 
farmer, of Lebanon county ; Rebecca, wife 
of Samuel Imboden, school teacher, of Ann- 
ville. 

Joseph Kleinfelter attended the schools of 
his district. His beginning of the work of 
life was on his father's farm ; after two years 
there he rented a farm in Lebanon county, 
owned by G. W. Shenk ; this farm he culti- 
vated for three years, and then rented and 
worked another farm in the same county 
for four years. After this he came to Dau- 
phin county, and rented a farm owned by 
J. M. Shenk, which he worked for six years. 
In 1890 he bought the Keystone Hotel, at 
Hummelstown, of which he is still owner 
and manager. Mr. Kleinfelter is well 
adapted to this business. He keeps a first- 
class hotel ; his house is furnished with all 
modern improvements, such as electric light 
and steam heat. Here he dispenses enter- 
tainment with a bountiful hand and in a 
cordial manner, which makes his guests feel 
at home, and in friendly and hospitable 
hands. His accommodations are unsur- 
passed by any hostelry in this section of the 
county, and his hotel is deservedly popular. 
Mr. Kleinfelter is a great lover of good horses, 
being a good judge of them, and the owner 
of some that are able to make good speed on 
both road and track. 

Mr. Kleinfelter was married at Union De- 
posit, Dauphin county, by Rev. Brownmil- 
ler, August 16, 1877, to Miss Emma R. Al- 
bright, who was born in Lower Paxton town- 
ship, February 3. 1858, a daughter of Melus 
and Maigaret Albright. The former still 
survives, and resides near Hummelstown, 
the latter is deceased. To their union was 
born seven children : Coria, born July 2, 
1878; Emma, born July 16, 1881, and died 
Novembers. 1892; Joseph, born June 11, 
1883 ; Landis, born March 23, 1886 ; Clay- 
ton, born February 7, 1888; Edwin, born 



May 24, 1889, died June 18, 1896 ; Anna, 
born March 24, 1891, died February 19, 
1894. Mr. Kleinfelter is a member of the 
Junior Order United American Mechanics. 
In his political views he is a Republican and 
the family attend the Lutheran church. 



Karmany, William, furniture manufac- 
turer, general house furnisher and under- 
taker, Hummelstown, Pa., was born in Pal- 
myra, Lebanon county, Pa., May 26, 1853 ; 
son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Strock) Karmany. 
Jacob Karmany was born in Lancaster 
county and was of German descent. He was 
a carpenter and joiner and followed this trade 
all his life ; he was a Republican ; he and his 
family attended the Lutheran church ; he 
died in Palmyra in 1891. His wife, Eliza- 
beth Strock, was born in Belle Grove, Leb- 
anon county, Pa.; she survives him and 
resides in Palmyra. The}' had five children, 
of whom three, Daniel, Edwin, and Alfred, 
died young ; the two living are : Jacob, gen- 
eral merchant in Lancaster county, Pa., and 
William. 

William Karmany was educated in the 
public schools of his native place. He served 
a three years' apprenticeship at cabinet mak- 
ing and w r orked at that trade as journeyman 
for ten years more. After this he removed 
to Hummelstown and began the manufacture 
of furniture on his own account. In 1882, 
finding his trade increasing, he built a fac- 
tory and warehouse, and manufactured furni- 
ture on a large scale, giving employment to 
a number of men. In his large show room 
he displays for sale a large stock of all kinds 
of furniture, carpets and house furnishing 
goods. He not only draws trade from the 
surrounding territory, but also ships furni- 
ture to Harrisburg, Middletown and other 
points. As another branch of his business, 
he is well equipped as an undertaker, and 
receives his full share of patronage in this 
department. The establishment of Mr. Kar- 
many is one of the solid concerns of the town 
and is of large advantage to the place. In 
the employment of labor and the outlay for 
materials, as well as in the trade brougbt to 
the town, the business is no small contribu- 
tion to the activity and prosperity of the 
place. Mr. Karmany votes with the Repub- 
lican party. He was elected to the council 
of Hummelstown on the ticket of his party. 
He was married, in Lebanon county, in 1872, 
to Sarah Reed, born in Annville, Pa., in 1857. 
They have two children: Clarence and 



I)M T l'IfIX COUNTY. 



677 



George W., both attending school. Mr. 
Karmany belongs to the Sons of America 
and to the Junior Order United American 
Mechanics. He is an honorable business 
man and a genial gentleman. He attends 
the Lutheran church. 



Stkickler, Joseph, S., farmer, stock raiser 
and lime manufacturer, of Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born on the old Strickler home- 
stead, in Derry township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., September 1, 1834. 

It is pleasant to write and profitable to 
read the simple chronicles of a family like 
the Stricklers. They display those virtues 
which are developed and strengthened and 
bequeathed to succeeding generations in the 
lines of those who till the soil and live in 
the country. Such families are the strength 
and glory of the nation, and the promise 
and potency of its enduring prosperity. Mr. 
Strickler is a representative of the fourth 
generation of those of his name and line 
who have lived and labored and rested 
where he now has his home, his occupation 
and his enjoyment. His great-grandfather, 
Abraham Strickler, who was of German an- 
cestry, bought this farm, now known as the 
"Strickler Homestead," about 1766. The 
Stricklers throughout the county spring 
from that owner of the Derry township 
farm. Abraham Strickler becmeathed the 
farm to his son, Henry Strickler ; for easy 
identification, let him be called the first 
Henry Strickler. He married Miss Fronica 
Ziegler, and they occupied and cultivated 
the homestead farm. They had four 
children. One of these children was the 
second Henry Strickler, Che father of Joseph 
S. The second Henry Strickler was a noted 
farmer and stockman. He occupied and 
tilled the homestead farm for the greater 
part of his life. In 1831 he married Eliza- 
beth Shanks, who was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa. They had eight children: 
•Joseph S.; John, living in Cumberland 
county ; Fannie, wife of J. Lowe, of Cumber- 
land county, Pa.; David, died young; Sam- 
uel, farmer, of Cumberland county ; Henry, 
railroad engineer, Fort Wayne and Chicago 
railroad, residing at Ashtabula. Ohio; Abra- 
ham, died young: Annie, unmarried, living 
in Cumberland county. In L'859 he re- 
moved from the old homestead, in Derry 
township, to Cumberland county, Pa., where 
lie engaged extensively in farming and stock 
raising, and where he died in 1886. His 



wife died in 1880. He was a Republican 
and a member of the Mennonite church. 
He was a prosperous man, of solid character 
and great personal worth. 

Joseph S. Strickler attended the schools of 
Derry township, and took an English course 
in Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg, Pa.; 
he also took a commercial course. After 
studying at Gettysburg for three years lie 
returned to the homestead, and for five 
years conducted the farm for his father. 
His father then removed to Cumberland 
county, and Joseph took charge of the home- 
stead. He gave to the old farm his undivided 
attention and it became his joy and his 
pride. He planned important improvements 
and proceeded to work out his plans. In 
1886 he erected one of the finest stone dwell- 
ings in the township, and furnished it with 
all modern conveniences, gas, hot and cold 
water, and bath room, also heating it 
throughout with steam. He built a magnifi- 
cent barn with a stone basement, and fur- 
nished it at a cost of six thousand dollars. 
He made an additional outlay of two thou- 
sand dollars upon other outhouses and 
minor buildings. Altogether, upon new 
buildings and improvements, he expended 
fourteen thousand dollars, and thus made 
for himself one of the most convenient, sub- 
stantial and luxurious farm homes in the 
State. 

He cultivates two hundred and thirty-five 
acres of land and keeps the entire farm under 
the most skillful and productive tillage. His 
farm is stocked with the finest breeds of horses, 
cattle, hogsand sheep, and no farmer surpasses 
him in raising live stock. In addition to his 
extensive and profitable operations in agricul- 
ture, he lias fitted up a lime burning plant 
of several kilns, and is now able to produce 
thirty thousand bushels of lime per year. 

He was one of the promoters of the Farm- 
ers' Bank, of Hummelstown, and has been a 
director of the bank since 18S5. He is a 
Republican, but his political action centers 
in voting, not in seeking office. He was 
elected justice of the peace, but would not 
accept the office. He has always found 
enough in his farm and business to employ 
his time and strength. Mr. Strickler is a 
model business man and an exemplary citi- 
zen. He is enterprising and progressive and 
in every way up with the times. He is 
widely known and everywhere honored 
and respected. 

In December, 185S, he married, in Middle- 



678 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



town, Susan, daughter of Jacob B. Hummel, 
of Hummelstown, Pa., born December 18, 
1840. They had twelve children, three of 
whom are living : Marian C, born Septem- 
ber 8, 1859, wife of Dr. M. R. Fisher, of 
Campbellstown, Pa., a practicing physician; 
Charles, born October 5, 1868, educated in the 
district schools and Commercial College, in 
Philadelphia, resides on the homestead, is 
an excellent young man, well-equipped for 
business and promises a successful career, 
unmarried; Edwin J., educated at college, 
now in New Orleans. The deceased chil- 
dren are : Elizabeth, born February 26, 1865, 
died March 19, 1865 ; Samuel H., born Sep- 
tember 30, 1863, died October 14, 1866: 
George H., born October 24, 1862, died Sep- 
tember 1, 1877; Katie H., born August 26, 
1870, died July 27, 1886 ; A. Lincoln, born 
November 8, 1860, died January 2, 1887. 
Four other children died in infancy. Mrs. 
Strickler died at the homestead, April 7, 
1877. On September 30, 1879, Mr. Strick- 
ler married his second wife, Emma Epler, 
"born in Londonderry township, April 6, 
1847. She died April 10, 1895, without 
issue. 



PIershey, Martin L., M. D., Derry Church, 
Dauphin county, Pa., was born in Derry 
Church, April 1, 1857. John Hershey, his 
father, was born in Lebanon county, Pa., in 
1799, the son of Henr3' Hershey, an exten- 
sive and prominent farmer of that county. 
John Hershey was educated in the subscrip- 
tion schools of the township, and was all his 
life a farmer. He removed to Dauphin 
county, where he was extensively engaged 
both in farming and in stock raising. He 
married Catherine M. Friel, born in Leb- 
anon county, near Campbellstown, the 
daughter of Patrick Friel, a Lebanon county 
farmer, of Irish descent. They had seven 
children : Henry F., an employee of the steel 
works, Steelton, Pa., member of the council 
of Steelton, married Miss Frantz, and has 
two children, Grace and Justus; Margaret, 
single, resides at Chicago, 111.; Isaac F., 
farmer, of Oberlin, Kan.; and Martin L. The 
deceased children were: Mary, wife of S. S. 
Shirk, contractor and builder, left one child ; 
Edgar, timekeeper at the Steelton steel 
works; Elizabeth and Mandanna died young. 
Mr. Hershey was a Whig. He was a mem- 
ber of the United Brethren church, and a 
widely known and highly respected man. 
He died in 1884, his wife in 1890. 



Martin L. Hershey attended the district 
schools of Derry Church ; was graduated at 
Lebanon Valley College. He taught school 
at Derry Church, giving universal satisfac- 
tion. Having chosen to prepare himself for 
the medical profession, he entered Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, and after two 
years' close application to study he was 
graduated with honors in the class of 1883. 
He opened an office in his native town, 
Derry Church, and was well received by his 
old friends and neighbors. He has succeeded 
in building up a large practice. He stands 
in the lead of his profession, second to none 
in the county. He has a host of friends, ad- 
mirers and patrons; his name is a house- 
hold word in the community. 

Dr. Hershey is also prominent in politics 
as an active Republican. In 1890 he was 
elected to the State Legislature on the Re- 
publican ticket by a large majority ; in 1892 
he was again elected to the same office, de- 
feating his opponent by three thousand 
votes. He was chairman of the education 
committee, and member of the fisheries 
committee and several other important com- 
mittees of the House of Representatives. He 
was an industrious worker and was distin- 
guished for his ability. He was married, in 
1885, in Lancaster county, Pa., to Miss Eliza- 
beth F., daughter of Dilfer and Mary (Groff ) 
Bare, born at Bareville, Lancaster county, 
February, 1865. They have had four chil- 
dren : Ruth M., born August 3, 1886; John B., 
born November 6, 1887, died in August, 
1888; Paul M., born January 17, 1888; Cathe- 
rine E., born April 30, 1889. 

Diller Bare, the father of Mrs. Hershey, 
was the second son of ex-Sheriff Adam Bare, 
who was well known in Lancaster county 
for superior intelligence and ability. He 
was married twice ; first, to Rachael Diller, 
of whom two children survive: Sarah, wife 
of Prof. Shimmell, teacher in the Harrisburg 
schools and editor of the School Gazette; and 
Annie, wife of Dr. W.C. Baker, of Hummels- 
town. He was married, secondly, to Miss 
Mary Groff, by whom there are two chil- 
dren: Elizabeth, wife of Dr. M. L. Hershey, 
and Harry E., of Philadelphia. Mrs. Bare 
died in May, 1895, and Mr. Bare resides with 
his daughter, Mrs. Dr. Hershey. 

Moyer, John H., senior member of the 
firm of Moyer & Brightbill, flour, grain and 
coal merchants, Derry Church, was born in 
Derry Church, Dauphin county, Pa., Novem- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



(ITU 



ber 12, 1857. His father, John B. Moyer, 
was also born at Derry Church, and is a son 
of John Moyer, who was a prominent farmer 
and stockman of Lebanon county, Fa., well 
and favorably known throughout thatcounty. 
In 1848 John B. Mover married Catherine 
Kline, born in East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. They .had five children: 
John H.; Lizzie, wife of D. M. Stoudt, farmer, 
of Derry township; Felix, merchant; Katie, 
unmarried ; Mary A., died young. His poli- 
tics were Republican. He was a member of 
the German Baptist church, and a well-known 
and highly honored citizen. He died in 
1SS1 ; his wife still lives and has her home 
in Derry Church. 

John* H. Moyer was educated in the dis- 
trict schools, and at Millersville and Pal- 
myra. For five years after completing his 
education he taught school, and gave gen- 
eral satisfaction as a teacher. He then em- 
barked in the coal business at Derry Church, 
which he conducted for five years and made 
very profitable. For three years of this time 
he also dealt in grain. His success and the 
increase of the business demanded the ad- 
mission of a partner, whom he found in the 
person of his brother-in-law, Henderson 
Brightbill, with whom he formed, in 188S, 
the firm of Moyer & Brightbill. These part- 
ners were young men, full of life and energy, 
with much business ability and enterprise. 
They began on a large scale. They erected 
one of the largest mills in the county and 
equipped it with machinery which enabled 
them to manufacture High grade flour in 
large quantities. They have maintained the 
grade of their flour, and the firm of Moyer 
& Brightbill has established a r eputation 
throughout the State for manufacturing the 
highest grade roller process flour. They 
have thus built up an extensive and profit- 
able trade. They are also general grain mer- 
chants as well as coal and salt dealers. They 
rank among the most successful business 
men of the county. Mr. Moyer also culti- 
vates one of the largest farms in the town- 
ship, on which he raises some of the finest 
stock which goes to the market from this 
region. In this department of his business 
he employs a considerable number of men. 

He was married, in 1882, to Miss Lizzie 
Brightbill, born near Campbellstown, Pa., in 
18(51. They have four children : Homer, 
Viola, Bessie, and Roy, all attending school. 
Mr. Moyer is a Republican. He is charac- 
terized by unusual business ability and tact. 



His judgment is accurate and his general 
views comprehensive. He is enterprising, 
genial and popular, and is always a leader 
in trade. 



Hummel, Rev. Solomon M., Derry Church, 
was born near Hummelstown, Pa., February 
3, 1839. His father, Jacob B. Hummel, was 
born in Hummelstown, a son of Jacob Hum- 
mel. Jacob B. was a farmer, belonged to the 
Democratic part}' and was a member of the 
Lutheran church. He was a substantial. 
honorable and genial man, and died in Hum- 
melstown in 1894. He married Fanny 
Mumma, a native of Dauphin county, who 
died in 1873. They had eight children : 
Solomon M.; Mary, wife of John Landis, 
merchant, Hummelstown : Jacob, a miller 
in Lebanon county, Pa.; Elizabeth, wife of 
L. Strickler, of Hummelstown ; Susan, de- 
ceased, wife of J. S. Strickler, farmer and 
lime manufacturer, of Derry township; < Cath- 
erine, deceased, wife of Franklin Blessing : 
Fanny, and Isaac died young. 

Solomon M. Hummel attended the home 
schools of the township and worked on his 
farther's farm until he was twenty-five years 
old. At this time he decided to become a 
minister of the Gospel and took up the study 
of theology. After three years of study he 
was ordained to the ministry of the United 
Brethren church. He became an able and 
popular pastor and preacher, and labored 
with zeal and success in important places. 
He was pastor of the Union Circuit in Dau- 
phin and Lancaster counties for two years. 
He was elected presiding elder by the Ger- 
man United Brethren Conference and served 
in the district composed of Berks. Lehigh, 
Montgomery, Philadelphia and other coun- 
ties for three years. Being affected with a 
weakness of the throat, which interfered 
at times with the use of his voice in public 
speaking, and made it impossible for him to 
perform the regular work of the ministry, he 
was compelled to resign his pastorate. He 
reluctantly retired from professional and 
public life and located in Derry Church. 
which has since been his residence. As a 
local preacher he still devote- much time to 
the spiritual wants of the people, he is a 
man of broad and deep sympathy and is 
interested in the welfare and happiness of 
the people. He is of a kindly disposition and 
easily approached by all classes. His counsel 
and help are sought by those in trouble and 



680 



BIO GRA PHI C A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



want ; his presence is a benediction to the 
place. 

While in a measure prevented by one form 
of physical weakness from doing regular 
professional work he is still a vigorous man, 
able to engage in other business. In 1884 
he took up the coal business, which he man- 
aged with characteristic energy and skill 
and in which he meets with success. Mr. 
Hummel was married, in 1864, at Derry 
Church, to Mary, daughter of Martin L. 
Nissley, of Derry Church. They had one 
child, Alice, who died in infancy. Mrs. 
Hummel died in 1892. He married again, 
January 23, 1895, Elizabeth, daughter of 0. 
S. Shank, merchant, of Annville, Pa. 



Brightbill, Henderson P., junior part- 
ner of the firm of Moyer & Brightbill, mil- 
lers and grain, feed, seeds, coal and salt 
dealers, Derry Church, Pa., was born near 
Campbellstown, Lebanon county, Pa., No- 
vember 16, 1855. His father, Henry Bright- 
bill, was born in Lebanon county in 1823, 
and was the son of Abraham Brightbill, 
farmer of that county. He was reared on the 
farm, became a farmer, and was thus engaged 
for some years. He removed to Swatara, 
Derry township, where he went into the grain 
business and carried it on successfully for ten 
years. He married Annie Hoffer, born in 
Lebanon county. They had four children : 
Henderson P.; Lizzie, wife of John H. Moyer ; 
and two children who died in infancy. His 
politics were Republican. He was a mem- 
ber of the United Brethren church, and died 
July 10,1890; his wife is still living. 

Henderson P. Brightbill received a liberal 
education ; he attended the district schools 
of his native township, and then took a 
course in the Commercial College, at Pitts- 
burgh, Pa; he also took a college course at 
Oberlin, Ohio. Leaving college, he went to 
Charleston, 111., and found employment as 
clerk in a wholesale grocery house, in which 
he continued six years. His correct habits, 
his fidelity and attention to business won for 
him the confidence and esteem of his em- 
ployers. He next crossed the continent and 
at San Pedro, near Los Angeles, Cal., was for 
five years bookkeeper for a wholesale lumber 
firm. At the expiration of that time he re- 
ceived an urgent request from his father to 
come East and share his rapidly growing and 
profitable business. He acceded to this re- 
quest and entered into partnership with Mr. 
Moyer in the milling and mercantile busi- 



ness, under the firm name of Moyer & Bright- 
bill. An account of this enterprising and 
successful firm is found in the biographical 
sketch of Mr. J. H. Moyer in another place 
in this volume. It needs only be added here 
that Mr. Brightbill has proven a valuable 
accession to the business and has contributed 
his share to the phenomenal success of the 
firm. Mr. Brightbill was married, in 1886, 
to Miss Grace, daughter of Dr. A. K. Spears, 
a prominent physician of Charleston, 111. 
They have two children, Ruth and Madge, 
both attending school. Mr. Brightbill is a 
Republican and a member of the Presbyte- 
rian church of Derry Church, Pa. Begin- 
ning life without help from others, Mr. 
Brightbill has secured a liberal education 
and has advanced himself in a successful 
business career. He is a good example of 
what a young man with good talents, correct 
habits, worthy aspirations and fidelity to 
duty can accomplish. 

Heckert, John E., farmer and stockman, 
Derry Church, Pa., was born in Lower Pax- 
ton township, Dauphin county, Pa., October 
3, 1850. Peter Heckert, his father, was born 
in Lower Paxton township, in 1812, and was 
of German descent. He had a common 
school education. He was all his life a 
farmer. He cultivated a farm of one hun- 
dred and seventy-five acres. He married 
Caroline Unger, born in Lower Paxton 
township. They had ten children : Kate, 
unmarried ; John E.; Calvin, a physician ; 
Annie, wife of S. Fishburn ; Aaron, of New 
York; Philip, farmer in Derry township; 
Emma, unmarried; Theodore, Elizabeth, 
and Jane, all deceased. 

John E. Heckert passed his youth in the 
usual manner of farmer boys, attending the 
public schools in the winter and working on 
the farm in the summer. He remained on 
the farm until 1878, when he removed to 
Derry township, rented a farm, and culti- 
vated it for four years. After this, in 1884, 
he bought a farm of thirty-eight acres in 
Derry Church. On this land he built a fine 
residence, and made other improvements, and 
by careful and skillful tillage and manage- 
ment brought it to a condition of great pro- 
ductivenesss and beauty. Mr. Heckert is a 
man of great industry and energy, and spares 
neither labor nor expense to make his farm- 
ing operations successful. He has the finest 
stock upon his place, and sends into market 
some of the very best products of his region. 



DM'I'UIN COUXTY. 



C81 



He was married, October 15, 1878, to Bar- 
bara F. Belim,of Derry township, born Jan- 
uary 1, 1851. They have no children. 

Jacob Behm, father of Mrs. Heckert, was 
born near Annville, Lebanon county, Pa., 
and is a son of Rudolph Behm, a prominent 
farmer in that county. He grew up on the 
farm, and in 1835 removed to Derry town- 
ship, where he engaged in farming and stock 
raising on a large scale. He married Fannie 
Forney, a native of Lebanon county. They 
had four children: Samuel, of Palmyra; 
John, of Palmyra; Fannie, wife of A. E. 
Hershey. and Barbara, wife of J. E. Heck- 
ert. Mr. Behm was a Republican, and served 
as county commissioner during the time the 
court house was erected. He died in May, 
1895; his wife in March, 1892. Mr. Heck- 
ert, in his political views, accords with the 
Democratic party. 



Balsbaugh, John H., was born in Derry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., Jul}' 11, 
1828. He was educated in the common 
schools and made farming his occupation 
until 1858, when he engaged in the grain 
and coal business at Swatara, where he 
erected the first building and secured the 
location of a station by the Philadelphia and 
Reading Railroad Company. He was at the 
head of the latter business until 1881, when 
he sold out and gave his attention chiefly to 
farming, cultivating about seven hundred 
acres and making substantial improvements 
in buildings and equipments. He was a 
large real estate owner, and was considered 
one of the most successful and progressive 
farmers in the county. He was manager of 
the Swatara Stone and Lime Company, in 
which he had large interests, and was a 
stockholder and director of the National 
Bank, of Hummelstown, from its organiza- 
tion in 1886. He was married, December 
23, 1817, to Mary, daughter of Abraham and 
Mary (Landis) Brightbill, born near Camp- 
bellstown, Lebanon county, Pa., October 
13, 1827. She was a kind-hearted woman, 
and universally loved and respected. The 
needy were never turned away from her 
door unaided. They had two children : 
Linda, who died young, and Hiram Whe- 
well. Mr. and Mrs. Balsbaugh nut death 
suddenly on the night before Christmas, 
1895. They were found in their bedcham- 
ber on Christmas morning poisoned to death 
by the escape of noxious gas from a defective 
stove pipe. The high esteem in which they 



were held in the community wasattested by 
the gathering at the funeral of the largest 
concourse of people ever assembled on a 
like occasion in that section. Fully three 
thousand people were there met, with hearts 
full of sympathy and sorrow, and with eyes 
suffused with tears. 

Hiram Whewell Balsbaugh, the only sur- 
viving child and the only son of John H. 
and Mary Balsbaugh, deceased, was born 
June 12, 1856. He received a classical edu- 
cation, beginning with a primary course in 
the district schools and finishing with the 
curriculum at Cornell University. After 
completing his studies he was a partner 
with his father in the grain business until 
1881, when he engaged in journalism, and 
was employed on leading daily newspapers 
of New York and Chicago. He became con- 
nected with a prominent life insurance com- 
pany of New York in 1888, occupying posi- 
tions of trust and responsibility, until the 
sudden death of his father made it necessary 
for him to make the homestead, at Swatara. 
his residence and assume the settlement and 
care of the estate. He was married, April 
29, 1896, to Theodora, daughter of Theodore 
Pfafflin, of New York, manager of Chicker- 
ing & Sons, piano manufacturers. 



Gish, John* R,, farmer and stockman, 
Hockersville, Pa., was born in Donegal, Lan- 
caster county, Pa., November 18, 1840. He 
is a son of John L. and Annie (Ressor) Gish. 
John L. Gish was born in ^'est Donegal, 
Lancaster county, and was the son of Jacob 
Gish, also a native of Lancaster county and 
a very extensive farmer. The Gish family 
were among the early settlers of the State. 
and are supposed to be of Swiss origin. John 
L. grew up on the farm of his father and 
made farming his lifelong occupation. He 
was a Whig, and a member of the Mennonite 
church. His wife, Annie (Ressor) Gish, was 
born in Lebanon county, a daughter of Peter 
Ressor, of that county. They had these 
children: Peter, farmer of West Donegal. 
Lancaster county. Pa.; Jacob, farmer on the 
old homestead at Df>negal: David, deceased : 
Samuel, also on the homestead; Abraham, 
deceased: John R. ; and Annie, who died 
young. John L. Gish was an honorable, up- 
right man, intelligent and of sound judg- 
ment; his advice was sought in business 
and social matters. He was very popular 
and highly esteemed. 



682 



Bl GRA PHICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



John R. Gish was educated in the common 
schools of the township. He worked upon 
the farm until he was twenty-five years old, 
when he married and made a home of his 
own. He rented a farm in the same town- 
ship which he cultivated for two years, after 
which he removed to Elizabethtown, Lan- 
caster county, and occupied another rented 
farm for three years. In 1873 he removed 
to Dauphin county, locating in Derry town- 
ship, where he settled upon a tract of seven ty- 
four acres. He lias improved it at an ex- 
pense of several thousand dollars and has 
made his home here since his removal. He 
has a good limestone farm and raises fine 
live stock. On February 23, 1867, he was 
married, at Donegal, Lancaster county, to 
Mary, daughter of John Rider, who was born 
in Donegal, September 30, 1841. 

John Rider was born in Lancaster county, 
Pa., February 22, 1811. He was a son of 
George Rider, a farmer of German descent. 
He married Lydia Doner, of Lebanon county, 
by whom he had three children : Eliza, 
widow of S. Dyer, of Cleveland, Ohio ; George, 
deceased, of Williamsport ; and Mary, wife 
of John R. Gish. Mr. Gish had three chil- 
dren by a former marriage : Lillian, born 
November 6, 1867, unmarried ; John, born 
January 19, 1871, deceased ; Clayton, born 
July 30, 1874, attending school at Lebanon. 
Mr. Rider was a Republican, and died at 
the farm of Mr. Gish ; his wife still lives, aged 
eighty-four years, and makes her home with 
her daughter, Mrs. J. R. Gish. 

Mr. John R. Gish is a Republican. He is 
a member of the United Brethren church. 
He is much interested and very active in all 
church matters. He has been a trustee of 
the church for six years, and contributed lib- 
erally toward rebuilding the church edifice. 
He is genial and agreeable, and enjoys the 
esteem of his neighbors. 



Hershey, Martin, retired farmer, Hock- 
ersville, Pa., was born in Derry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., December 27, 1830. 
He is a son of John and Mary (Frick) 
Hershey. John Hershey was born in Derry 
township in 1800, and was a son of Isaac 
Hershey, a native of Lancaster county, Pa., 
of German descent. He was an extensive 
farmer and stock raiser. He married Mary 
Frick, born in Rapho township, Lancaster 
county, in 1800. They had ten children : 
Annie, wife of Isaac Kulp, farmer ; Martin; 
Mary, who died young; Elizabeth, deceased; 



Fannie, unmarried ; Priscilla, wife of Jacob 
Kulp ; Lydia, unmarried ; Leah, deceased ; 
Maria, wife of Jacob Wenger ; Menno, farmer 
of Derry township. Mr. Hershey died in 
1851, and his wife in 1853. He was a 
member of the Mennonite church, and for 
several years a minister. He gave land and 
otherwise aided liberally toward the building 
of a church. He was an exemplary citizen, 
and a worthy and respected man. 

Martin Hershey attended the common 
schools of the township. He remained on 
the home farm during his father's lifetime, 
and after his death continued to cultivate it 
for nine years, or until the youngest child 
became of age. Upon the partition of his 
father's estate, one hundred and sixty acres 
of laud was allotted to him. This tract he 
retained for his home, and improved by the 
erection of a fine brick dwelling at a cost of 
six thousand dollars and a barn which cost 
three thousand dollars. He thus provided 
for himself one of the best farm houses in 
the region. He has a lime kiln upon his 
farm, and is also interested in stock raising. 

He was married, in January, 1861, in 
Franklin county, Pa., to Mary A. Shartle. 
born in that county, daughter of Ann Maria 
(Huffer) Shartle. They have had three 
children : one who died in infancy ; Amos 
S., born July 11, 1867, received preliminary 
education in the common schools and the 
schools at Millersville, Pa., graduated from 
the Normal School at Kutztown, Pa., attended 
Bucknell College, Lewisburg, Pa., graduated 
with honors from Harvard University, grad- 
uated from Heidleburg, Germany, and . 
studied at Paris, France, and is now a profes- 
sor in the State University of Indiana; mar- 
ried Lillian Wilcox, a prima donna, born 
in Schuylkill county, Pa.; Ida, third child 
of Martin Hershey, was born December 28, 
1869, and is the wife of Clinton M. Hershey 
of Harrisburg, Pa., son of Christian Hershey 
of Derry township. Mr. Hershey is a Men- 
nonite, and holds the office of deacon. He 
is a substantial citizen and a man of strong 
character. He is actively interested in ail 
that promises good to his fellow-men. 

Gingrich, Cyrus, was born in Derry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., May 25, 
1830. He is a son of John and Annie 
(Moyer) Gingrich, the former born in Leba- 
non county, Pa., March 12, 1781, the latter, 
in Lebanon county, August 2, 1787. Cyrus 
Gingrich attended the common schools of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



685 



the township. He lived with his father, 
and cultivated the homestead farm for him. 
After his father's death, he took entire 
charge of the farm, which consisted of more 
than three hundred acres ; his management 
was skillful and profitable, lie was one of 
the largest land owners in the township, 
lie constructed several dwellings and barns, 
and expended many thousands of dollars in 
improvements, lie paid especial attention 
to the breeding of fine cattle and horses, ami 
raised' some of the finest stock to be found 
in that region. He also had lime kilns on 
the farm. 

He was married, November 13, 1856, in 
Derry township, to Melinda, daughter of 
Christian and Sarah (Cinn) Bechman. She 
was the sixth of their ten children, and was 
born in Cornwall township, Lebanon county, 
Pa., December 14, 183b\ Mr. and Mrs. 
Gingrich had these children : Christian B., 
farmer, born in 1857, married Alice Hocker, 
and has six children; John M.,born 1859, mar- 
ried Clara Horner, resides in Hummelstown ; 
Edwin G., born in 1861, in Berry township; 
Annie, born in November, 1863, died Octo- 
ber, 1878; Fannie B., born July, 1865, died 
in January, 1877 ; Cyrus B., born in October, 
1867, died in December, 1868 ; Jeremiah, born 
in 1872, school teacher, at home ; Sarah M., 
born in 1870, wife of Harvey Bomberger, 
farmer, Palmyra, Pa.; Amnion B., born in 
1874, Farmers' Bank, Hummelstown : a son, 
not named, born in March, 1876, died in 
infancy ; Elmer B., born in May, 1878, died 
in February, 1882; Mary A., born in April, 
1883, died in November, 1887. Mr. Ging- 
rich was a Republican, a school director for 
one term, and a member of the Reformed 
church. In 18S8 he retired from active 
business, and with his worthy wife enjoyed 
for a number of years the fruits of their 
well-ordered, industrious and successful life. 
He was respected and beloved, lie died, 
February 10, 1895, leaving his widow well 
provided for as to property, and she is af- 
fectionately cared for by her children. His 
children honor his memory, and cherish the 
rich heritage of the good name which he be- 
queathed to them. 

Edwin G. Gingrich, his son, like his 
worthy father, attended the district schools 
and worked upon the same farm. He re- 
mained Upon the homestead, and has made 
it his life work to cultivate it. Ee inherits the 
characteristics and the business methods of 
his father, and is meet inn with success as a 
45 



farmer. He was married, in Derry town- 
ship, to Ellen Kisser, who was born in Leba- 
non county. They have one child, Cyrus. 
Mr. Gingrich is a Republican, and is popu- 
lar and highly respected. 

Flowers, George L., farmer and cabinet 
maker, Hockersville, Pa., was born in Mt. Joy 
township, Lancaster county, Pa., November 
13, 1826. He is a son of Christian and Susan 
(Lindersmith) Flowers. Christian Flowers 
was born in Lancaster county, Pa. He was 
a weaver, and was the son of a native of Eng- 
land, who settled in Pennsylvania. His 
wife, Susan Lindersmith, was a daughter of 
George Lindersmith, a native of Switzerland, 
who for seven years and eight months fought 
under the banner of George Washington. 
They had seven children: George L.; Eli, 
carpenter, Lancaster county, Pa.; Rosanna, 
widow of Abraham Meashly, of Lancaster 
county ; Susan, wife of C. Arndt, carpenter, 
Lancaster county ; Barbara, wife of Jacob 
Brown, of Lancaster; and two children who 
■ lied young. Mr. C. Flowers was a Republi- 
can, and a member of the United Brethren 
church. 

George L. Flowers attended the schools of 
his native township. At the age of sixteen 
he began to learn carpentry, and made this 
his occupation for twenty-one years. For 
nine years he worked at cabinet making 
also, and was an undertaker, making coffins 
and caskets as ordered. Then, removing to 
Dauphin county, he changed his occupation 
to farming. He rented and cultivated farms 
in several parts of the county, taking them 
on shares. He was very successful as a farmer 
and accumulated money. Removing to 
Annville, Lebanon county, he bought alarm 
of one hundred and forty-three acres, for 
which he paid $8,000 in cash, the accumula- 
tion of his years of hard toil. He made 
numerous substantial improvements on the 
farm, and cultivated it for seven years. He 
then sold it for §10,000 and spent one year 
with his son. 

In iss:; \ ]v returned to Dauphin county 
and bought forty acres of land with improve- 
ments, paying for it $7,550. lie remodeled 
the dwelling, which was a hundred years old, 
built a workshop and made other improve- 
ments, 1 [e works in the shop in the winter 
and tills the land in summer. He finds a 
a good market in the surrounding country 
for the 1 furniture be makes. 

He was married, in September, 1847, in 



686 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Lancaster county, to Catherine Werner, born 
in Rapho township, Lancaster county, Pa., 
October 10, 1827. They had eleven chil- 
dren : Ann, wife of Jacob Smith ; Abraham, 
farmer, Dauphin county ; Aaron, farmer ; 
Susan, wife of Edward Gailbaugh ; Emma, 
wife of D. Seabold, of Lebanon county ; Levi, 
farms the homestead ; Frank, thresher and 
farmer; Mary, wife of George Boyer, and 
three children who died young. Mr. Flow- 
ers belongs to the Mennonite persuasion. 
He is a friendly man and has many friends. 
He is worthy of the confidence and respect 
which his neighbors cherish for him. 



Coble, Abraham B., farmer and stock- 
man, Hockersville, Pa., was born in Milton 
Grove, Lancaster county, Pa., June 25, 1864. 
He is a son of John and Mary (Baker) Coble. 
John Coble was born in Conewago township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., and was a son of 
Christian Coble, a farmer of that county. 
He spent the first part of his life on the 
farm in Dauphin county, and afterwards re- 
moved to Lancaster county and engaged in 
farming on his own account. He was a 
stock breeder as well as a farmer. His wife, 
Mary Baker, was a native of Lancaster 
county. They had five children, three of 
whom are living : Harry, railroad engineer, 
married Amanda Kiper, resides in Harris- 
burg ; Lizzie, wife of Martin Attick, stock 
dealer, Highspire, Pa., and Abraham B. 
Two children died in infancy. Mr. John 
Coble was a Republican in his politics. He 
was a Mennonite and an industrious, honest 
and upright man. He died in Lancaster 
county in 1879. His widow still lives and 
is cared for in her old age by her son, Abra- 
ham B. Coble. 

The latter was educated in the public 
schools of his township and worked on the 
home farm until he was fifteen years old, at 
which time his father died. He then farmed 
for nine years with his uncle. At twenty- 
four years of age he went to Iowa, and for 
one year bought, sold and shipped stock to 
eastern markets. After this time he came 
to Dauphin county and settled in Derry 
township, where he bought one hundred and 
seventeen acres of land, which he has culti- 
vated and improved. He has raised fine 
horses for which he finds ready sale in the 
township. Mr. Coble was married in Eliza- 
bethtowu, in 1888, to Laura, daughter of 
Henry and Elizabeth (Miller) Gish, the 
former a prominent farmer in Lancaster 



county. They have four children : Walter, 
Minnie, Harvey and Charles. Mr. Coble is 
a Republican. He is a man of public spirit, 
always interested actively in every enter- 
prise for the benefit of the community. He 
enjoys the confidence and respect of his 
neighbors and is deservedly popular. 

Hershey, Israel L., farmer and stock- 
man, Derry, Dauphin county, Pa., was born 
in Derry township, Dauphin county, where 
he now resides, January 5, 1845. He is a 
son of Isaac and Mary (Landis) Hershey. 
Isaac Hershey was also born in Derry town- 
ship, and was a son of Isaac and Annie 
(Frentz) Hershey, the former an extensive 
farmer of Lancaster county, where he was 
born. Isaac Hershey, Jr., attended subscrip- 
tion schools. He made farming his voca- 
tion for life. He was one of the best and 
most successful farmers of the township. 
Mary Landis, his wife, was born Januaiy 10, 
1810, and was a daughter of Abraham Lan- 
dis, of Lancaster county. They had seven 
children: Lavinia, Abram and Benjamin, 
deceased; Israel L.; John, deceased; Annie, 
wife of John Moyer, farmer, Deny township; 
and Leah, deceased. Mr. Isaac Hershey 
died September 1, 1879, on the homestead 
farm. He was a prominent citizen, and be- 
longed to the old Whig party. He was a 
Mennonite. His widow survives, and has 
her home with her son Israel L. 

Israel L. Hershey took the regular course 
of instruction in the district schools. He 
remained on the home farm, working for 
his father, until 1879, when his father died. 
The homestead then passed into his posses- 
sion, and he has ever since cultivated the 
farm. He has made many improvements, 
and remodeled the dwelling. He has to 
some extent carried on the live stock busi- 
ness in connection with farming. He was 
married, in 1874, in Franklin county, to 
Mary, daughter of John Shartle, born in 
Franklin county, Pa., April 3, 1850. They 
have had four children: Elam, born Feb- 
ruary 7, 1875, works on the farm ; John, 
born October 11, 1876, teacher; Isaac, born 
October 26, 1879 ; and Abner, born October 
13, 1S84. 

John Shartle, father of Mrs. I. L. Hershey, 
was a prominent farmer and stockman of 
Franklin county. He married Mary Miller, 
of Franklin county. Their children were 
five in number : Mary, wife of I. L. Hershey ; 
Samuel, farmer, Franklin county, Pa.; Emma, 



DMT I'll IN COUNTY. 



687 



died young ; Jacob, doctor, Millcrsville, Pa.; 
and John, doctor, Philadelphia, Pa. Both 
Mr. and Mrs. Shartle died in Franklin 
county. 

Mr. Hershey is a Republican. He is one 
of the substantial and reliable men of the 
community. He prosecutes his business 
undertakings with industry and enterprise. 
He is a man of genial manner, and is very 
popular. 



Reed, William H., furniture manufac- 
turer and undertaker, Hummelstown, Pa., 
was born in Annville, Lebanon county, Pa., 
July 13, 1861. His father, Isaac Reed, was 
born in Lebanon county, where he still re- 
sides. He is foreman in the Lebanon 
stone quarries. He married Polly Auchen- 
bunch, also a native of Lebanon count)'. 
They had six children : John, farmer, in 
Ohio; Sarah, wife of William Karmany, 
furniture manufacturer, Hummelstown, Pa.; 
William H; Charles, residing in Hummels- 
town ; Grant, and Samuel, died young. The 
father and mother both reside in Annville. 
They attend the United Brethren church. 
Mr. Reed is a Republican. He is well and 
favorably known throughout the town and 
county where he resides. 

William H. Reed attended the common 
schools of Annville, and was also graduated 
from the school at Campbellstown, Pa. He 
learned carpentry at Harrisburg, where he 
spent ten years, and worked at that trade in 
Annville. In 1881 he came to Hummels- 
town and worked with his brother-in-law, 
William Karmany, at furniture making, for 
fourteen years. In the spring of 1895 he 
erected a factory of his own and embarked 
in the furniture business. He has a fine 
show room on Main street. He meets with 
success, obtaining a fair share of the town 
and township trade. Mr. Reed was mar- 
ried, December 22, 1884, at Hummelstown, 
to Mary Kelchner, born in Palmyra, Leb- 
anon county, Pa., in 1863. They have four 
children: Florence, attending school : Harry, 
Morgan and Stuart. Mr. Reed is a Repub- 
lican. He is a member of the United 
Brethren church. In business he is indus- 
trious, enterprising and progressive. He is 
genial and friendly and is much liked. 



Stkickler, Adam, farmer, Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born in Derry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., June 26, 1832. He is a son of 
Ulrich and Molly (Ilamaker) Strickler. 



Ulrich Strickler was born [in JLondonderry 
township, Dauphin county, in 1807, and was 
a son of Ulrich Strickler, who married Miss 
Funk ; the former of Dauphin county and 
of German descent. The younger Ulrich 
Strickler, father of Adam, attended the sub- 
scription schools of the township and was a 
farmer and stock raiser. His wife, Molly 
Ilamaker, was born in Derry township, 
Dauphin county, in 1808. Their children 
are: Jacob, deceased; -Adam; Elizabeth, 
deceased, wife of Felix Landis ; Ulrich, de- 
ceased ; David, farmer, of Steelton ; Mary, 
wife of John B. Hoverter, of Harrisburg; and 
Martin, deceased. Mr. Strickler retired from 
active business, and resided in Hummels- 
town, where he died in 1881. His wife died 
in 1875. He was a Republican, and a 
member of the United Zion's Children 
church. He had a wide acquaintance, and 
was highly respected. 

Adam Strickler attended the common 
schools and the subscription schools of Derry 
township. He worked on the farm in the 
summer, and attended school in the winter 
months. After leaving school, he continued 
to work on the homestead farm, and for two 
winters taught school. When he was 
twenty-one he went to Londonderry town- 
ship, Lebanon county, and became a partner 
with his brother-in-law, Felix Landis, in the 
business of distilling; in this he continued 
two years with fair success. He next en- 
gaged in the flour and grain business. The 
company then built and equipped a mill at 
a cost of §20,000. He had operated the mill 
for eleven months when it was destroyed by 
fire. The property was only partially in- 
sured. Their loss on mill, machinen 7 and 
stock was about §20,000. He then removed 
to West Hanovertownship, Dauphin county, 
bought a farm of two hundred and fourteen 
acres and cultivated it for two years. He 
then sold this farm, and returned to Lon- 
donderry township, Lebanon county ; there 
he cultivated a farm of one hundred and 
forty acres, owned by his father-in-law, M. 
A. Brightbill, for one year, after which he 
removed to South Annville township, and 
bought one hundred and twenty acres of 
land which lie cultivated for three years. 
After this he came to Dauphin county, lo- 
cating at Swatara Station, and entered into 
partnership with his brother-in-law, John 
II. Balsbaugb, a sketch (if whom appears in 
another place in this volume. They dealt 
for three years in grain, coal and stock. 



688 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



during which time Mr. Strickler went to 
Ohio in the interest of the firm, buying live 
stock and shipping to eastern markets. The 
business proved very profitable. He sold 
his interest in the business, and bought 
ninety acres of land nearby, which he im- 
proved and made his home there for fourteen 
years. In 1883 he bought his present farm 
of one hundred and fifty acres, on which he 
has expended $2,000 in improvements, and 
which is now his residence. 

He was married, September 3, 1857, in 
Harrisburg, to Sarah Brightbill, who was 
born in Lebanon county, December 24, 
1836. She was one of fifteen children of 
Abraham and Mary (Landis) Brightbill; 
her father was a prominent farmer of Leb- 
anon county. Mr. and Mrs. Strickler have 
had eight children : Emma R., wife of James 
G. Fox, son of Dr. Thomas G. Fox, of Hum- 
melstovvn, and has eight children : George, 
Robert, Walter, Charles, Edward, Webster, 
Virginia, and Elizabeth, deceased; Agnes 
B., born March 5, 1864, wife of A. G. Long- 
enecker, farmer, of Conewago township, 
Dauphin county, has one child, Benjamin 
Warren; Harry B., born April 18, 1866, 
mechanic, married Regina Heinley, has one 
child, Morris; Sadie B, born January 30, 
1871, wife of E. B. Mumma, farmer, three 
children : Milton Ray, and two that died 
young; Bertha B., bom April 7, 1875, un- 
married and residing at home ; Annie M., 
born April 12, 1860, died May 10, 1860; 
Franklin, born January 30, 1863, died Feb- 
ruary 13, 1863 ; Morris, born February 17, 
1868, died April 3, 1872. Mr. Strickler is a 
Republican. He filled the office of school 
director for eighteen years. He was mer- 
cantile appraiser for one year. He has for 
six years filled the office of auditor, which 
he still holds. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the United Brethren church. Hav- 
ing been industrious, frugal and successful 
throughout life he and his worthy wife may 
now retire from active participation in the 
labors of life, and comfortably enjoy the 
fruits of their work. They have the respect 
and esteem and the good wishes of all their 
neighbors. 



Gerlack, John M., carriage, buggy and 
wagon manufacturer, Hockersville, Pa., was 
born in Mt. Joy, Lancaster county, August 
17, 1864. He is a son of John S. and Cathe- 
rine (Witmer) Gerlack. John S. Gerlack 
was born at Turkey Hill, Md., and was a 



prominent farmer of that region. He was 
subsequently engaged in farming in Lancas- 
ter, Lebanon and York counties, Pa. His 
wife, Catherine Witmer, was born in Lan- 
caster county. Thej' had six children : Liz- 
zie, wife of H. Butterfield, of Mt. Joy, Pa.; 
Barbara, wife of John Walters, manufacturer; 
John M.; Sarah, deceased ; and two children 
who died in infancy. Mr. J. S. Gerlack was 
a Republican. He was a member of the 
German Baptist church. He had a wide 
circle of friends and was respected by the 
community. He died at Campbellstown in 
1891. His wife died in Lancaster in 1888. 
John M. Gerlack attended the schools of 
Lebanon and York counties. For three 
years he worked as a farm laborer, receiving 
as wages twenty dollars per month. The 
next year he worked on the Coleman rail- 
road. The following two years he spent in 
learning wagon making, and the next two 
he passed in Lancaster county, employed in 
carpenter's work. He then removed to Leb- 
anon, Pa., and was engaged as a car builder 
in the car shops. In 1889 he came to Dau- 
phin county and opened a factory and re- 
pair shop. At the end of four years he found 
that his business had outgrown his shop. In 
order to me*et the demands of his increased 
and still increasing trade, he built a large 
factory in the village and fitted it up with 
engine, boiler, and improved machinery. 
He keeps upwards of six men employed in 
the general business of manufacturing car- 
riages, buggies and wagons and in repair- 
ing. He also built a fine dwelling. His 
outlay for the improvement was more than 
$4,000. He is meeting with gratifying suc- 
cess in his business. In 1884 he was married, 
in Lancaster county, to Lydia Ober, born in 
White Oak, Lancaster county, Pa.; they had 
one child, David, attending school. Plis wife 
died in 1886. He was married again, in 
1S87, to Mary H. Wolf, born in Bucks county. 
There are no children to this marriage. Mr. 
Gerlack is a Republican. He is a member 
of the River Brethren church, which he at- 
tends at Hummelstown. In his business he 
is diligent, enterprising, trustworthy and suc- 
cessful, and in social circles he is esteemed 
and popular. 



Eby, Michael, retired farmer, of Derry 
township, was born in Derry township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., on the farm where he now 
resides, January 12, 1831. His grandfather, 
Michael Ebv, was a native of Switzerland. 



DMTIIIX CorXTV. 



i;<:i 



He came to this country when a young 
man, located in Lancaster county, and sub- 
sequently removed to Derry township, where 
he reared his family. He cultivated and 
highly improved a farm of two hundred 
acres, and here also he died, lie married 
Elizabeth Oberholler, born in Lancaster 
county, Pa. 

Christian Eby, son of the elder and father 
of the younger Michael Eby, was born 
in Lancaster county. He attended the sub- 
scription schools of the county. He removed 
with his parents to Dauphin county, and 
grew up there on his father's farm. He 
made farming and stock raising his life oc- 
cupation. He married Elizabeth Witzler, 
born in South Hanover township, Dauphin 
county. They had nine children: John, 
farmer; Michael; Christian, deceased; Eliza- 
beth, wife of William Light, farmer, Han- 
over township ; Catherine, wife of Henry 
Linawav,of Campbellstown ; Amos,deceased ; 
Jonas, justice of the peace at Campbellstown, 
and two children who died young. Mr. Eby 
died in Derry township in 1865. His wife 
also died in Derry township in 1892. His 
politics were Republican. He was a Men- 
nonite. He was well known, had many 
warm friends, and was universally re- 
spected. 

Michael Eby had the ordinary advantages 
of the neighborhood schools. He remained 
upon the farm with his father, and made 
fanning his business for life. He bought 
the homestead of two hundred and nine 
acres, and made improvements of great ex- 
tent, costing §5,000. He built one of the 
finest and most convenient farm dwellings 
in the township. Stock raising was an im- 
portant branch of his business, In 1888 he 
was able to retire from active business, and 
enjoy the fruits of his days of hard but suc- 
cessful work. 

He was married, in 1855, in Harrisburg, 
to Caroline Detweiler, born in South Ann- 
ville, Lebanon county. March 17, 1834, one 
of the nine children of Michael and Barbara 
(Thomas) Detweiler. Thechildren ofMichael 
and Caroline Eby are: Charles 1'., horn in 
L857, married Mary Brandt, born in Leba- 
non county, and has two children. Nola and 
Clyde: Anson II., born in 1858, married 
Mary Bomberger; John, married Elizabeth 
Bowman, resides in Lebanon : Michael, in 
the creamery business in Londonderry town- 
ship, Lebanon county, married Emma Bow- 
man; and Franklin, died young. 



Mr. Eby is a Republican. He held the 
office of supervisor of roads for one year, 
and of tax collector for one year. He has 
been a traveler, and has visited many parts 
of the Western States. He is enterprising 
and industrious in business, and has been 
successful. He enjoys the confidence and 
respect of his neighbors. 



Hummel, Elwood F., postmaster, Hum- 
melstown, Pa., was born in Hummels- 
town, January 15, 1SG5. The Hummel fam- 
ily is one of the old and prominent fam- 
ilies of Eastern Pennsylvania. The great- 
grandfather of Mr. E. F. Hummel took part 
in the Revolutionary war in 1775. Each 
succeeding generation has had representa- 
tives ready for the public service in what- 
ever form the demand might come. 

Jacob Hummel, Mr. E. F. Hummers 
grandfather, was one of the family which 
established Hummelstown. He was a farmer, 
a man of character and substance, and an 
embodiment of the virtues which made the 
pioneers so illustrious. His son, John H. 
Hummel, father of Elwood F., was born in 
Hummelstown July 14, 1817. He was edu- 
cated in the subscription schools of Harris- 
burgand publicschoolsof thetown,and in his 
younger days worked on the farm. He made 
farming his vocation for life. He married 
Elizabeth Fox, born in Hummelstown in 
1831, daughter of James Fox. an uncle of 
Dr. Thomas G. Fox, of Hummelstown. They 
had eight children : Frank P., born in Hum- 
melstown November 12, 1854, train dis- 
patcher on the Union Pacific railroad, Salt 
Lake City, married and has a family : Kate, 
died at the age of eighteen : Paul and Elma, 
died in infancy; Elwood F.: Maggie, wife of 
P. W. Ilocuck: Peter, train dispatcher of 
the, Leading railroad, living in Philadel- 
phia; David, druggist. John H. Hummel 
was a Democrat. He was a member ol the 
Lutheran church. He died in Hummels- 
town, August 23, L894. Bis long, busy and 
successful life was spent in Hummelstown. 
For three-quarters of a century he was 
known in that community as an honest, up- 
right and intelligent man. His reputation 
is without spot, and his children have re- 
ceived from him the precious heritage of a 
good name. His widow is still living and 
resides in Hummelstown. 

Elwood K. Hummel took the regular 
course of instruction in the schools of Hum- 
melstown, including the high school. He 



690 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



spent three years as apprentice and journey- 
man at the blacksmith's forge. He then 
studied for one term at the West Chester 
Normal School, after which he returned to 
Hummelstown and worked for nine years as 
carriage blacksmith in the factory of Walmer 
& Fox. He left the factory to assume the 
position of postmaster of Hummelstown, to 
which he was appointed under the Cleveland 
administration in February, 1895. He per- 
forms the duties of the office with credit to 
himself and with satisfaction to the public. 
Mr. Hummel is a Democrat and an active 
participant in all party movements. He 
was elected to the borough council for three 
years, during which time many important 
improvements were made, among these the 
introduction of electric lights. He was the 
youngest man ever elected to fill the office of 
councilman. He was recording secretary of 
the Sunday-school two years, and also finan- 
cial secretary for two years. He is one of 
the most popular men in the town, and is 
universally regarded as an upright, genial 
gentleman. He is unmarrried. 



Erb, Will C, general merchant, hotel 
proprietor and postmaster, Hockersville, 
Pa., was born in Bainbridge, Lancaster 
county, Pa., January 11, 1847. He is a son 
of Samuel and Eliza (Bowman) Erb. Sam- 
uel Erb was a son of Isaac Erb, a prominent 
farmer, and was born in Lancaster county. 
He was a merchant and lumber dealer. 
His wife, Eliza Bowman, was a native of 
Cornwall, Lebanon county. They had these 
children: Edwin B., deceased; Will C; 
Clara E., unmarried; George A., deceased; 
Sybilla A., wife of A. S. Craumer, merchant, 
of Lebanon; Amnion H. and M. Jennie, de- 
ceased ; Samuel, merchant in Lebanon, Pa. 
Samuel Erb, Sr., was a Republican and a 
member of the Reformed church. He died 
in Lebanon in 1895, and was one who acted 
upon principle, and had the reputation of be- 
ing an honest man. His wife is still living 
in Lebanon, having attained a ripe old age 

Will C. Erb enjoyed the best educational 
advantages. He attended the schools of 
Cornwall, Meyerstown, Lebanon, Palmyra 
and Millersville. He taught school in Corn- 
wall township, Lebanon county, Pa., for 
eight years, and was a successful and popu- 
lar teacher. In 1873 he removed to Dau- 
phin county, and located at Hockersville, 
where he went into the mercantile business, 



and speedily built up a large trade, which 
extended throughout the township. He 
opened the Hockersville House, and became 
a successful and popular proprietor. The 
wants of his guests were promptly and lib- 
erally met. He was courteous and hospit- 
able, and his house became well known and 
deservedly popular. 

In 1873 he was married, at Hockersville, 
to Lavina L. Hocker, born in Hockersville, 
the daughter of Jacob Hocker, the oldest 
resident of the village. They have had five 
children : EdnaC, school teacher; A.Jennie, 
at home ; I. Clarence, clerk in his father's 
store; Elmer E., at school; Ammon R., died 
young. Mrs. Erb died in 1882, after a pro- 
tracted illness. In 1885 Mr. Erb was mar- 
ried again, to Laura E. Saylor, born in Ann- 
ville, Pa., daughter of John L. and Ellen 
(Freylinghausen) Saylor, both natives of Lan- 
caster county. Mr. Saylor is a prominent man- 
ufacturer of carriages, etc., of Annville, Pa., 
and a highly respected resident of that place. 
Two children were born of this marriage, 
Clyde S. and Pearl M., both attending 
school. Mr. Erb is a Republican, and is 
holding the office of postmaster, being ap- 
pointed under the Cleveland administration. 
He is also county auditor, and was also tax 
collector and town clerk for about eighteen 
years. He is a member of the Reformed 
church, which the family attend at Hum- 
melstown. He has spent the past twenty- 
three years at Hockersville, and is well and 
widely known and highly respected by all. 



Walton, Allen K., stone merchant, Hum- 
melstown, Pa., was born in Philadelphia, 
Pa., November 11, 1860. He is a son of 
Allen and Emma J. (Kohlenkamp) Walton. 
His parents removed, when he was a small 
boy, to Hummelstown, Dauphin county, Pa., 
where he was educated in the common 
schools. At the age of eighteen he became 
interested with his father in the stone quarry. 
He has continued in this business up to the 
present time. He was married, November 
17, 1885, to Miss Caroline, daughter of 
Charles and Sophia (Seiffert) Goehmann. 
After their marriage they took up their resi- 
dence in the beautiful house in Hummels- 
town built by Mr. Walton in 1884. They 
have three children : Allen G., Lillie S. and 
Caroline E. Mr. Walton is a strong Repub- 
lican. He is an active member of the Lu- 
theran church at Hummelstown. 



DAUI'IIIX COUNTY. 



691 



Balsbaugh, Uriah, teller, National Bank, 
Hummelstown, Pa., was born in Derry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., December 27, 
1856. His father, John Balsbaugh, was born 
in Derry township, in 1809, and was a son 
of Abraham Balsbaugh, also a native of the 
county, of German descent. John Balsbaugh 
attended the subscription schools of his 
township. He began his business career by 
working on the farm for his father, and 
made farming his life occupation. He be- 
came a large landholder. He owned over 
five hundred acres, on which he built some 
fine brick dwellings and frame houses, some 
of the finest in the township. He expended 
many thousands of dollars in improvements, 
valuable and substantial, on his farms. 
These improvements are monuments of his 
zeal and devotion in making Derry township 
to lead all other townships in the county. 
He was also interested in the Union Furnace 
Works, and was one of'the first promoters of 
that industry. He gave attention to raising 
fine live stock, and was one of the first 
farmers to build lime kilns and manufacture 
lime for use as a fertilizer. He married 
Catherine Landis, born in 1810, daughter of 
Christian Landis. They had ten children : 
Christian, retired farmer, living in Himi- 
melstown; Jeremiah, retired farmer, also of 
Hummelstown; John, an extensive farmer 
and stockman of Lebanon county; Carrie, 
wife of George Green, architect and builder, 
Harrisburg ; Uriah ; Abraham, Sarah and 
Elizabeth, deceased ; and two who died in 
infancy. Mr. Balsbaugh died, in Hummels- 
town, in 1883. His name still lives, and 
will long be cherished in the hearts of those 
who knew him. In all the relations of life 
he was a true man. He greatly benefitted 
the community by his useful life and the 
display of his virtues. His wife died at the 
home of her son, Uriah Balsbaugh, June 5, 

IN! I.",. 

Uriah Balsbaugh attended the district 
schools and also graduated from the Hum- 
melstown high school, after which he learned 
coach making with the firm of Bear & Hov- 
erter, with whom he spent the first ten years 
of his business life. In 1878 he took a busi- 
ness course in the famous Poughkeepsie 
Commercial College, N. Y., and was graduated 
from that institution in 1879. He then ob- 
tained a position as clerk in the Bummels- 
town National Bank, which he held for three 
years. In 1883 he was elected teller of the 
bank, a position of trust and responsibility. 



the duties of which he has performed with 
credit to himself and satisfaction to the direc- 
tors of the bank for the past thirteen years. 
Mr. Balsbaugh is active in the Republican 
party. He is at present a school director. 
He is a teacher in the Sunday-school. Ib- 
is a member of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, 
1. 0. 0. P., past officer ; Robert Burns Lodge, 
No. 464, F. & A. M., past master ; and of Jr. 
0. U. A. M., Council No. 40, Hummelstown. 
He is unmarried and is a well-known and 
popular man. 



Crist, Dr. Josiah B., deutist, office No. 
13 North Third street, Harrisburg, residence 
and office in Hummelstown, Pa., was born 
on the Jonestown Road, Lebanon county, 
Pa., April 25, 1841. He is a son of Elias 
and Lucy (Yingst) Crist. Elias Crist, son of 
George Crist, of Lebanon county, and of Irish 
descent, was a tailor; this was his vocation 
throughout life. He resided in Lebanon 
county, and died there in 184S. He was a 
Democrat, and well and favorably known in 
that section of the country. His wife, Lucy 
Yingst, of Lebanon county, was of German 
descent. Their children were : Lydia, wife 
of Levi Plough, contractor and builder. 
North Lebanon, Pa.; Josiah B., and Elias, 
who died young. After the death of her 
first husband Mrs. Crist married Chester 
Howetter. They had one daughter, Louisa, 
wife of Charles Alleman. Mrs. Howetter 
died in Lebanon, Pa., in 1881. 

Josiah B. Crist was but seven years old 
when his father died. His uncle, who was 
also his godfather, cared for him and gave 
him a home. In return, he worked on the 
farm in summer, attending school during 
the winter months. At ten years of age he 
met with a painful accident. While work- 
ing in a field with a fractious horse he had 
his foot broken. He set the bones himself 
and was helped to the house by a friendly 
Irishman who happened to pass. The Doc- 
tor has never forgotten the kindness of that 
Irishman. He remained with his foster 
father for seven years, after which he was 
hired as laborer by another farmer for three 
years. In the meantime he was improving 
every opportunity for gaining information 
and preparing for life's battles. He worked 
on the canals for six months, and spent a 
short time at cabinet making but his health 
failing while engaged in the latter occupa- 
tion be abandoned it. He was employed in 
coach making for ten years. While thus en- 



692 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



gaged the war of the Rebellion broke out. 
On September 18, 186,1, he enlisted at Leb- 
anon, Pa., in company K, Ninety-third regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, Colonel Mc- 
Carter and Captain E. Dougherty. He was 
in the battle of Williamsburg, May 5, 1862, 
of Fair Oaks, and the Seven Days' fight. On 
the way to Richmond with the army he was 
attacked with typhoid fever and was in the 
hospital for six months. At the end of 
eleven months' service he was discharged at 
Baltimore, in 1862. He enlisted for two 
months in company F, State militia, in 
which he was quartermaster's sergeant. 

He had a strong desire to enter professional 
life, so he began to prepare for the practice 
of dentistry. He studied under Dr. Bousel, 
a well-known dentist, and other instructors. 
In September, 1864, he came to Hummels- 
town and opened an office. He had neither 
money nor friends, but he had pluck and 
ambition and a strong determination to suc- 
ceed. He lived for several months on two 
meals a day, and walked to and from Leba- 
non because he was not able to pay railroad 
fare. Soon the coveted success came. Peo- 
ple discovered that the young dentist had 
not only resolution and perseverance, but 
fine ability and skill as well ; that he was 
reliable and thoroughly competent in his 
profession. A large and lucrative practice 
was established. In 1883 he determined to 
extend his field of operations, and he opened 
an office in Harrisburg and devotes a part of 
his time every week to his patrons and 
patients in that city. Dr. Crist displays 
originality in his profession ; he is the in- 
ventor of new and valuable methods and 
appliances ; he first invented the crown tooth 
to take the place of the wooden peg, and 
holds a patent right on several new instru- 
ments which facilitate the work of dentistry. 
He made the first chair he used in his prac- 
tice and also many of his own instruments. 
He also studied watchmaking, and has a 
buggy in his possession constructed accord- 
ing to a plan original with himself. 

Several of the students who received in- 
struction from him have become eminent in 
their profession ; for example, Dr. Wall, of 
Hummelstown, who was one of his students 
and is now a dentist in London, and who 
has had the honor of operating on Her 
Majesty Queen Victoria. 

Dr. Crist was married, in 1864, to Amanda 
Bosser, of Annville, Lebanon county, Pa. 
They have had eight children: Isorah, 



widow of M. Grove, coach trimmer, of Hum- 
melstown, has one child, named for his 
father, and resides with her father, Dr. Crist; 
Will, at the College of Dentistry, Philadel- 
phia, a young man of good habits and bright 
professional promise; Annie and Abbie, both 
deceased ; Ray, dentist, with his father ; 
Bessie, a student in the high school ; and 
two who died in infancy. Mrs. Crist died of 
heart failure, September 2, 1883. She was an 
estimable woman, of benevolent and friendly 
disposition, well known and universally 
loved and respected. Her death cast' a 
gloom upon the town. In 1890 Dr. Crist 
married Mary Aucherman ; the}' have no 
children. 

Dr. Grist is a member of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows and of the G. A. R., 
Post 58, Harrisburg, and a Republican in 
politics ; he is a member of the Lutheran 
church, is a Sunday-school teacher, and was 
for years superintendent of the Sunday- 
school. He attends to his patients in Hum- 
melstown on Mondays and Thursdays, and 
is found on the other days of the week at 
Harrisburg. He has been successful to a 
gratifying degree during his thirty years' 
residence at Hummelstown, and has accum- 
ulated a handsome property. He owns four 
dwelling houses and has other valuable in- 
vestments. His best attainments are his 
professional reputation and his good name. 



Fox, William R., of the firm of Walmer 
& Fox, carriage manufacturers, Hummels- 
town, Pa., was born in Deny township, Sep- 
tember 3, 1853. He is a son of Richard and 
Rachel A. (Patton) Fox. Richard Fox was 
born in Derry township, a son of Thomas 
Fox, a sketch of whom appears in this vol- 
ume in connection with that of Dr. Thomas 
Fox. He had a common school education. 
He was a farmer, and largely interested in 
stock raising. He was a member of the 
Lutheran church, and Republican in poli- 
tics. He was a director in the Merchants' 
Bank, of Harrisburg; was a prominent and 
successful business man, of worth and popu- 
larity. He was first married to Rachel A. 
Patton, who died at the age of twenty-two. 
Her children were : William R.; George, 
time-keeper at the quarry in Hummels- 
town ; Jonas and David, who both died 
young. Mr. Fox's second marriage was 
with Adelaide Heinicke, of Harrisburg, by 
whom also he had four children : Annie, 
wife of E. Einstein, merchant, of Harris- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



093 



burg; Mary, unmarried; Richard W., of 
Ilarrisburg; Elizabeth, wife of William 
Wallin, Philadelphia. Richard Fox died 
in 1874; his wife survives him, residing in 
Ilarrisburg. 

William Robinson Fox attended the 
scbools of Ilummelstown, and remained 
upon the homestead farm until lie was 
twenty years of age, when he removed to 
Ilummelstown, and bought the carriage 
manufactory of William Walmer, a sketch 
of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. 
He conducted the business for one year, and 
then sold a half interest to William Wal- 
mer, establishing the firm of Walmer & Fox, 
under whose management the business has 
been extended and made very profitable. 
Mr. Fox was married, in 1875, in Hummels- 
town, to Mary E., daughter of Samuel Wal- 
mer, and sister of his partner, William Wal- 
mer. Their children are: Marion V., born 
in 1S7G; Anna L.,in 1878, and William W., 
in 1883. Mr. Fox is a Republican. He was 
a member of the town council for six years, 
and auditor for three years. He is a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church. He is a man 
of good business ability, genial and popular, 
and enjoys the confidence and esteem of his 
neighbors. 



of Lebanon county, who died December 17, 
L855. Their children are: Annie, Mrs. H. B 
11. nick, of Hummelstown, and Josiah, of 
Hummelstown. He was reared in the Men- 
nonite church. 



Bukkholder, Michael K., Hummels- 

town, Pa., was born in South Annville town- 
ship, Lebanon county, Pa., March 4, 1830 : 
son of Ulrich and Polly (Koffman) Burk- 
holder. Michael K. was reared and educated 
in Lebanon county, where he also taught 
school for seven terms. He was engaged in 
the grain business at Palmyra for six years. 
and in February, 1868, moved to Hummels- 
town, where he opened a grain and coal 
business, in which he continued until 1892, 
when he retired and was succeeded by his 
son. Since that time he has conducted the 
"Royal Oak" mill at Union Deposit, in con- 
nection with F. H. Stouffer. He also con- 
ducts a farm in Lebanon county and is a 
breeder of Ilolstein cattle. Mr. Burkholder 
is one of the charter members and a stock- 
holder and director of the Fanners' Bank, 
and is a stockholder and charter member of 
the Electric Light Company. In his political 
views he is a Republican, and was a member 
of the borough council and also a member 
of the school board. Mr. Burkholder was 
married, in 1853, to Miss Barbara Ann Reish, 



Blessing, Frank D., merchant, Hum- 
melstown, Pa., was born in Derry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., December 20,1852; 
son of Absalom and Mary Blessing. The 
first of the family in the county was Chris- 
tian Blessing, a native of Germany, who 
settled in Derry township, at an early day, 
where he took up a tract of land. His son, 
Christian Blessing, was born in Germany 
and came in his youth with his parents and 
became a farmer in Derry township. He 
was a member of the Lutheran church. 

Absalom Blessing, father of Frank D., was 
born in Derry township in 1801, and died 
December 31, 1891. He was a stone mason 
and followed that occupation. In political 
views he was a Democrat, and in religious 
faith and fellowship a Lutheran, in which 
connection he was active and liberal, and 
contributed to the erection of the Sand Hill 
church. Mis wife survives him. They 
reared ten children: Mary, wife of Henry 
Aldinger, of Conewago township; John, 
stone mason at Lebanon ; Rebecca, Mrs. 
Joseph Riddle, Hummelstown; Frank D.; 
Daniel D., Hummelstown; Elizabeth, Mrs. 
John Smith, of Londonderry township; 
Sarah, Mrs. John B. Nye, Ilummelstown; 
John, married Amelia Hatton; David, un- 
married, and two children, who died in in- 
fancy. 

Frank 1). was reared in Derrj township 
and attended the township schools. He 
was engaged in farming until 1875, when he 
became a clerk in a. store, where he remained 
five years, and in 1879 he opened a general 
store, which he has since conducted. He is 
a member of Harrisburg Lodge, No. 68, 1. 
0. O. F., and of the P. 0. S. of A. at Ilum- 
melstown. In politics he is a Democral and 
has served in the borough council. Mr. 
Blessing was first married to Catherine, 
daughter of Jacob B. Hummel, who died, 
leaving one child, Olive. For his second 
wife he married Miss Sabina A. Holier, 
daughter of Christian Hotter, of Ilummels- 
town, by whom he has one child, Edwin 
Holler. Mr. Blessing is a member of the 
Lutheran church, in which he formerly was 
a deacon. 



694 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Hummel, Valentine, son of Frederick 
Hummel (2d) and Regina Ricker, was born 
February 7, 1787, at Hummelstown, Dauphin 
county, Pa. The education he received was 
quite limited, only such as was afforded by 
the country schools of the time. In 1806 
he began as an apprentice to Philip Lee- 
brick, of Hummelstown, to leatn the trade 
of a saddler. In 1810 he went to Harris- 
burg, and forming a partnership with 
Michael Lebkicher, his old shop mate at 
Hummelstown, began the saddlery and har- 
ness making business. Messrs. Hummel & 
Lebkicher subsequently engaged in mer- 
chandising, the running of saw and grist 
mills, the lumber trade, and the purchase of 
land both in the city of Harrisburg and on 
the Cumberland side of the Susquehanna, 
until the death of Mr. Lebkicher, when the 
survivor retired from all active business. 
Mr. Hummel was elected a representative of 
Dauphin county to the legislative session of 
1822-23, and again in that of 1840. Governor 
Shulze appointed him one of the associate 
judges of the county, November 12, 1827, a 
position he resigned March 20, 1837. Both 
in the Legislature and while upon the bench 
Judge Hummel served the public with the 
same fidelity and honesty of purpose as 
characterized him and made him remarkable 
in his private business. For one-third of a 
century he was a director of the public 
schools, and at the time of bis death a trus- 
tee of the Harrisburg Academy. A great 
believer in humane treatment, he advocated, 
while a member of the school board, the 
total abolition of corporal punishment, but 
without success. For many years he had 
been interested in the old Harrisburg Bank, 
had served as a director, and at the close of 
his life was president of that institution. 
He died at Harrisburg on the 4th of Sep- 
tember, 1870, in his eighty-fourth year. His 
wife, Elizabeth Walborn, died October 25, 
1867, aged seventy years. Of Judge Hum- 
mel it may be said, he was a man of great 
temperateness of habit in all things, was eco- 
nomical and frugal, unostentatious, and en- 
joyed life in a calm, quiet, and rational 
manner. 



he laid out on a portion of his tract a town, 
which he named Frederickstown, but was 
changed upon his death to that now be- 
stowed upon it. He donated land for the 
erection of the Lutheran and German Re- 
formed churches, and erected a school house, 
directing that English branches should be 
taught therein. He was an active partici- 
pant in the French and Indian war, and 
when the frontiers were setting an example 
to people of the three original counties to 
prepare for resistance to British injustice he 
was chairman of the patriotic meeting of 
Derry, held at Hummelstown in June, 1774. 
He died at his residence on the 25th of June, 
1775, aged fifty-three years. He was the 
ancestor of a large family, who can look 
with pride to the high-born zeal, energy and 
patriotism of their progenitor. His remains, 
with those of his wife and children, are in- 
terred in the Lutheran church graveyard at 
Hummelstown. 

Very little is known of the ancestor, 
Frederick Hummel, but some insight into 
his character may be gained from the fol- 
lowing advice to his children contained 
in his will : " After this I leave my blessing 
to them all, and have God before you al- 
ways, then the Lord and great Jehovah will 
bless you now and for evermore, Amen." 



Hummel, Frederick, was a native of 
Pfalz, in Germany, born April 14, 1722. 
With some friends he came to America 
about 1738, and subsequently took up a 
large body of land where Hummelstown is 
located. In 1762, foreseeing the advantages, 



Hummel, Valentine, son of Frederick 
Hummel (grandson of the founder of Hum- 
melstown) and Susanna Hamaker, was born 
March 12, 1812, at Hummelstown, Dauphin 
county, Pa. At the age of thirteen he was 
sent to Harrisburg, in care of his uncle, 
Judge Hummel, receiving the benefit of two 
years' English education in the schools of 
the borough. At the age of seventeen he 
was apprenticed to the printing business, 
with Jacob Babb, publisher of the German 
paper, the Morgenrthe. At the age of twen- 
ty-one Mr. Hummel was taken into partner- 
ship, and the firm of Babb, Hummel & 
Bigler were for many years printers for 
the State and publishers of the German 
Democratic organ, the Morgenrthe. In 1850 
Mr. Hummel was elected register of wills 
and recorder of deeds for Dauphin county, 
which office he creditably filled one term. 
He subsequently engaged in merchandising, 
in which he continued until a few years be- 
fore his death. During the Rebellion, dur- 
ing the invasion of Pennsylvania, he was 
lieutenant of the Home Guard, Captain 
Nevin. For several years he was deputy 



DMJI'IIIN COUNTY. 



i-.'.i:, 



collector of internal revenue, Fourteenth dis- 
trict, and for a long period collector of city 
taxes, and served in the board of school 
control. In the church (Zion Lutheran) he 
took an active part, and was superintend- 
ent of its Sabbath-school until physical dis- 
ability prevented him from performing the 
duties of its service. He died at Harrisburg, 
Thursday morning, August 26, 1880. 



Hummel, Frederick, son of David and 
Mary (Toot) Hummel, was born December 
24,17 — ,in Derry township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. He was brought up as a farmer, receiv- 
ing the limited education thus afforded in 
the countiy schools of the township. When 
but a stripling of eighteen, in company with 
his brothers, he offered his services to his 
country at the outset of the Revolution, and 
was in the campaign of the Jerseys and in 
and around Philadelphia in 1776 and 1777, 
and at the close of the war for independ- 
ence was a major in a battalion of asso- 
ciators. . In the political affairs of the coun- 
try he became quite prominent and wielded 
considerable influence, owing to his great 
popularity. He was colonel of the militia, 
a position he held for many years; served as 
justice of the peace several terms, and was 
commissioned by Governor Ritner an asso- 
ciate judge of the county, April 5, 1837. 
He died at Hummelstown, October 31, 1847. 
Colonel Hummel married Barbara, daughter 
of Jacob Metzgar, of Derrv.born September 
1, 1779; died November 22, 1861, and with 
her husband is buried in the old Lutheran 
churchyard, at Hummelstown. 



Hummel, Richard T., Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born in Hummelstown, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 23, 1821; son of Joseph 
and Elizabeth (Lubrick) Hummel. The 
first of the family to settle in Dauphin 
county was Frederick Hummel, a native of 
Wurtemberg, Germany, who came to this 
countiy and took up a tract of Government 
laud, which included the present site of 
Hummelstown. He was a farmer by occu- 
pation, and was the founder of the town 
which bears his name. He donated the old 
site of the Lutheran church and the pres- 
ent site of the Reformed church. His church 
connection was with the Lutherans, and he 
aided in the foundation of both churches. 
So far as known, his children are : Frederick, 
Valentine, and David, all of whom were 
farmers. He sold the town lots on ground 



rents, stipulating that the rents should be 
paid in the currency of Great Britain, and 
divided his property among his children. 
David died at the age of thirty three years. 
He married Miss Mary Toot, and his children 
are: Frederick; David ; Joseph ; Leah, Mrs. 
Henry Landis, of Derry township ; Annie, 
Mrs. George Stover, died in Hummelstown; 
Mary, Mrs. Daniel Baum, of Hummelstown. 
He was a prominent member of the Lutheran 
church. Of his sons, Frederick was a farmer 
at Hummelstown ; served as justice of the 
peace and as associate judge of the county; 
David located in Harrisburg, and died there, 
having served as commissioner of the 
county. 

Joseph, father of Richard T., was born in 
1793. He was a farmer and merchant, and 
also saddle and harness maker. During the 
war of 1812 he rendered military service as 
assistant quartermaster in Captain Moore- 
head's company. His death occurred April 
18, 1852. He was married to Elizabeth Lu- 
brick, of Hummelstown, a daughter of Philip 
Lubrick, who survived him until 1887. He 
was a Lutheran in his religious faith and 
fellowship, and in political views was promi- 
nent in the Whig and Republican parties. 
His children are: Henry P., deceased, for 
many years a merchant at Hummelstown : 
was married to Adeline Stecker, and they 
had no children ; Elizabeth, Mrs. Frederick 
M. Lauman, deceased, of Middletown, and 
they have two children : Joseph, deceased, 
and William, of Middletown; Richard T.; 
Mary, widow of Benjamin Gisler, of Cum- 
berland county, miller by trade: Sarah, 
Mrs. Martin Earley, of Palmyra. Pa., mer- 
chant and farmer ; David J., of Philadel- 
phia, merchant for many years, and now in 
the saddle and harness trade, married Cathe- 
rine Zinn ; Joseph, deceased, all his life an 
invalid ; Susan, deceased ; Caroline, unmar- 
ried ; Ilummelster, Annie, Edwin, Silas, and 
< 'harles, of New York City, commercial agent, 
unmarried. Richard T. attended the schools 
of his time, and learned the saddler trade 
with his father, and was afterwards engaged 
in the business for forty years. In 1868 he 
engaged in the general mercantile business, 
the title of the firm being first, H. L. Hum- 
mel & Co.. then If. L. Hummel & Bro., and 
later R. T. Hummel & Son, and continued 
up to 1891, when be retired from the busi- 
ness. Mr. Hummel also conducted a farm. 
He was married, in 18-17. to Miss Mary 
Coover, daughter of John Coover, Esq., mer- 



696 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



chant, at Mechanicsburg,Pa. Their children 
are: Edgar C, Hummelstown, deputy sheriff 
of the county; C. Carroll, M. D., physician, 
has been practicing at Mechanicsburg for 
nineteen years, a graduate of Jefferson Medi- 
cal College; Salome, Mrs. Percy B. Metz- 
ger, office of the Union Trust Company, of 
Philadelphia, attorney-at-law. During the 
war of the Rebellion Mr. Hummel was called 
out with the emergency troops. In political 
matters he is interested and active in the 
Republican party. He has served as mem- 
ber of the borough council, and was chair- 
man of that body many years, and also has 
served as member of the school board and 
auditor of the township. He is a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which 
he holds the office of trustee, steward and 
class leader, and is also the teacher of the 
Bible class in the Sunday-school. Mr. Hum- 
mel helped to organize the first Sunday- 
school in the town. 



Hoffer, Christian, retired, Hummels- 
town, Pa., was born in South Annville town- 
ship, Lebanon county, Pa., January 13, 1824; 
son of George and Annie (Gingrich) Hoffer, 
natives of Lebanon county. Christian was 
reared m Lebanon county and received his 
education in the schools of that period. 
After reaching maturity he was engaged in 
farm work and driving team for eight } r ears. 
In 1848 he was married to Miss S. A. Motter, 
daughter of Philip Motter, of Lebanon 
county. He was then engaged in keeping 
hotel at Annville for two and a half years, 
and in 1852 came to Hummelstown, where 
he conducted the old Zearfoss stand for one 
year, after which he removed to Palmyra 
and kept the hotel there for six years. From 
Palmyra he removed to Reading and became 
the proprietor of the Union Hotel, where he 
remained one year, after which he was at 
Palmyra again for eight years, and then 
came to Hummelstown, where he conducted 
the National Hotel until 1878. Since the 
last named date he has been retired from ac- 
tive business. Mr. Hoffer was one of the 
organizers and the first president of the 
Farmers' Bank. In 1868 he and M. K. Burk- 
holder established the flour and feed and 
coal business, which they continued two 
years, and also the implement business, 
which they conducted for several }'ears. In 
his political views Mr. Hoffer is a Democrat, 
and served as postmaster at Palmyra under 
President Buchanan. He was a member of 



the first council of Hummelstown. Mr. 
Hoffer was also one of the organizers of the 
Hummelstown Building and Loan Associa- 
tion, and served as its treasurer for many 
years. His fraternity association is with 
Lodge No. 335, 1. 0. 0. F. His children are : 
Edwin M., Hummelstown ; Emma F., de- 
ceased, married Earnest M. Shope, of Hum- 
melstown ; Lizzie A., wife of H. G. Walmer, 
of Hummelstown ; Sabina M., wife of F. D. 
Blessing, of Hummelstown ; Ida A., wife of 
David Castle, Hummelstown; Agnes C, de- 
ceased; George, Hummelstown ; and Calvin, 
died in infancy. Mi'. Hoffer is a member of 
the Lutheran church. 



Holler, Charles K., coal, grain, wood 
and lime dealer, Hummelstown, Pa., was 
born in York county, October 21, 1843 ; son 
of Francis and Annie (Kook) Holler, na- 
tives York county. The father was a farmer 
by occupation and spent his life in his native 
county. Charles K. was reared in York 
county and was educated in the public 
schools. In 1879 he came to Dauphin 
county and located at Hummelstown, where 
he had charge of the coal business of Chris- 
tian Garver from 1879 to 1886, when he pur- 
chased the business, and has conducted it in 
his own interest since that date. In politics 
Mr. Holler is a Republican and is now serv- 
ing his sixth year as a member of the school 
board of the borough, of which he was for- 
merly the treasurer. He holds membership 
in Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. 0. P., of 
Harrisburg, and in the Junior Order of United 
American Mechanics, of Hummelstown. Mr. 
Holler was married, in 1865, to Miss Rebecca 
Mathias, daughter of Henry Mathias, of 
York county. Their children are: Sarah 
Jane; Henry F., of Hummelstown, deputy 
prothonotary of Dauphin county, married 
Miss Alfaretta, daughter of Abner Fox, of 
Illinois; Charles Irvin, William Harvey, 
and LeRoy C. Mr. Holler is a member of 
the United Brethren church, and has held 
the office of treasurer of the Sunday-school 
from 1882 to the present time. 



Murray, John, merchant, Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., December 
11, 1842; son of Samuel and Mary Ann 
(Baum) Murray. The father worked on 
the farm until he was twenty-one years old, 
when he married a daughter of Daniel Baum, 
and engaged in hotel keeping. He also car- 
ried on a butchering business and attended 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



0:17 



the Harrisburg markets. Later he removed 
to Pittsburgh, Pa., where lie died in 1851, 
having at different periods had charge of the 
"Golden Sheaf," "American Jhm.se," and 
"Black Bear"hotels. After hisdeath hiswife 
continued the hotel for some time, and sub- 
sequently removed to Allegheny City, and 
from 1 1 1 ere to Manchester, and finally died 
at Allegheny City in 1855. They had five 
children, three of whom are now living: 
John; Daniel, of Youngstown, Ohio, coach 
dimmer; Mary Agnes, wife of George Sny- 
der, of Youngstown, Ohio. 

John came to Hummelstown in 1S55 and 
lived with his grandfather Baum until he 
was sixteen years of age, when he went to 
Lebanon to learn the harness maker's trade 
with his uncle. In 1861 he enlisted in com- 
pany A, Ninety-third regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia volunteers, as a private, and was with 
the Arm}- of the Potomac in the Peninsular 
campaign, participating in all the battles. 
He was wounded at Richmond, and as a re- 
sult was disabled and discharged from the 
service in 1863, after which be returned to 
Lebanon, Pa., and resumed work at his 
trade. In 1864 he came to Hummelstown 
and opened a harness shop, which he con- 
ducted a short time. He then removed to 
Derry township, where for four years be was 
engaged in farming. In 1871 be returned 
to Hummelstown and opened a store, which 
he has since conducted. He is also a stock- 
holder in the Farmers' Lank. Mr. Murray 
is a member of the P. O. S. of A., and of the 
James Henderson Post, No. 443, G. A. R, of 
which he is also the commander, and was 
one of the organizers in 1891. In politics he 
is a Republican, and has served as burgess 
and as member of the borough council. He 
was married, in 1864, to Miss Elizabeth H., 
daughter of George Balsbaugh, of Derry 
township. Their children are: Charles B., 
at home; Catherine B., wife of S. C. Stecker, 
of Hummelstown : and Edith M. Mr. Mur- 
ray is a member of the Lutheran church, 
and his wife is a member of the United 
Brethren church. 



Rutherford, Abner, son of William and 
Sarah (Swan) Rutherford, was born March 
31, 1814, on the Rutherford homestead, in 
Swatara township, Dauphin county, Pa. 
He is in the fourth generation from Thomas 
Rutherford, the progenitor of the family in 
Pennsylvania. He received the education 
afforded by the select schools of Paxtang 



Valley, and most of his life be has passed 
in farming. For several years be has been 
president of the First National Bank of 
Eummelstown, and has been identified with 
other corporations, and active in various 
local enterprises of the day. In 1865 he was 
a captain of the Tenth company, Ninety- 
eighth regiment, Pennsylvania militia. For 
many years he has been one of the vice- 
presidents of the Pennsylvania Slate Agri- 
cultural Society, in the founding of which 
he took a prominent part. His energy and 
ability, combined with his business habits, 
have produced that success which generally 
follows. Mr. Rutherford married, February 
28, 1839, Ann, youngest daughter of Will- 
iam Espy, of Swatara, and their children 
are: William Franklin, Sarah Ann, Susan 
Elizabeth, and Ada Byron, who married 
Spencer F. Barber, of Williamsburg, Pa. 



Shull, Dr. William M.. Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born in Springfield township, Perry 
county, Pa., August 14, 1859; youngest son 
of Samuel and Almira (Albert) Shull, na- 
tives of Perry county. He was reared on 
the farm and was educated in the public 
school. For five years he was engaged in 
teaching, and a part of this time he gave 
instruction in the Bloomfield Academy. 
After a course of preparatory reading he at- 
tended the lectures at Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege, at Philadelphia, and was graduated 
from that institution in 1885. He was en- 
gaged in the practice of medicine at Con- 
cord, Franklin county, for five years, for one 
year of which he was medical examiner for 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. In 
1890 he came to Hummelstown. Dr. Shull 
holds membership in the Prince Edwin 
Lodge, F. & A. M., at Middletown, and in the 
Derry Council of American Mechanics. In 
politics he is interested and active as a 
member of the Republican party. The 
Doctor was married, in 1888, to Miss Sadie, 
daughter of Joseph ( ). Boss, of Mifflin 
county, and to this marriage there is no 
issue. Formerly lie was a Presbyterian, but 
is now a member of the German Reformed 
church. 



Sciiakki'kk. Dk. Uriah R, Eummelstown, 
Pa., was born in Lebanon county. Pa., Jan- 
uary 24, L859; son of Adam and Fannie 
( Uoyer) Schaeffer. natives of Dauphin county. 
The father was a prominent dealer in coal. 
grain and lumber in Lebanon county, but is 



698 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



now retired from active business. Uriah R. 
was the second in order of birth of four 
children, and was reared in Lebanon county. 
He received his education at Meyerstown 
and Millersville. His private preceptor in the 
study of medicine was Dr. John 1). Zimmer- 
man, of Lebanon, and he was graduated 
from the Jefferson Medical College, at Phila- 
delphia, in 1879. In the following year he 
began the practice of his profession at Far- 
mersville, Lancaster county, where he con- 
tinued until 1886, when he removed to 
Hummelstown, where he became prominent 
in his profession and enjoys a large practice. 
During the past five years he has been the 
physician for the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company. Formerly he was a member of 
the Lancaster County Medical Society, and at 
present holds membership in the Junior Order 
United American Mechanics, Patriotic Order 
Sons of America and Knights of Pythias. 
In political views he is a Republican and is 
active in party interests. Dr. Schaeffer was 
married, in 1879, to Miss Lizzie, daughter of 
Reuben Royer, of Ephrata, Lancaster county, 
and they have three children living : Ralph 
Chester, Gertrude May and Roy Herbert. 
Mrs. Schaeffer is a member of the' German 
Baptist church, of Hummelstown. 



Burkholder, Josiah. dealer in coal, grain, 
salt, seeds, fertilizers, etc., Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born in Lebanon county, Pa., De- 
cember 4, 1856 ; son of M. K. and Barbara 
Ann (Reish) Burkholder. He was reared in 
Lebanon county and educated in the pub- 
lic schools and in the Millersville State Nor- 
mal School. He entered the business of his 
father and assisted him until 1892, in Sep- 
tember of which year his father retired from 
the business, to which he succeeded, and has 
since conducted it in his own interest. In 
his political views he is a Republican, and 
has served as a member of the borough 
council, and as president of the body for five 
yejii's. He is a member of the Patriotic Order 
Sons of America, of Hummelstown. He 
was married, in 1876, to Emma L., daughter 
of David Bender, of Hummelstown, and to 
their marriage there is no issue. Mr. Burk- 
holder is not connected with any church. 



LaRoss, Prof. David Henry Earnest, 
son of Rev. Joseph and Elizabeth (Earnest) 
LaRoss, was born January 9, 1827, at 
Bloomsburg, Columbia county, Pa. His 
father died when his son was an infant, and 



his mother, an exemplary woman, when he 
was eleven years of age. Thus early left an 
orphan, he was thrown upon his own re- 
sources for a livelihood. After varied em- 
ployments he returned to Hummelstown 
with his maternal uncle, and shortly after 
apprenticed himself to the trade of cabinet 
maker. After serving his time he began 
clerking at Harrisburg, where he remained 
several years, at the same time closety apply- 
ing himself to study. He subsequently en- 
tered Lafayette College, Easton, where he 
remained two years, his limited means not 
permitting him to remain for graduation. 
He then began teaching as a profession. In 
1860 he was first selected county superin- 
tendent. He was re-elected in 1875 and in 
1878, and again in 1881, when his vote was 
almost unanimous. Professor LaRoss died, 
at Hummelstown, October 22, 1882, in his 
fifty-sixth year. He married, first, in 1853, 
Sarah A. Coil, of Shaefferstown, Lebanon 
county, Pa., who died in January, 1867. 
Their children were: Joseph ; John ; Mary ; 
Gertrude, who married Eli Kline, of Allen- 
town ; Carroll, Robert, Sarah, and Eva. 
He married, second, Annie W. Breneman,of 
Elizabethtown, Pa., who died two years after- 
wards. In 1872 he was married a third 
time, to Fannie Hummel, of Hummelstown, 
and their children were : Fannie, Claude, 
and Edna. 



EAST HANOVER TOWNSHIP. 



Etter, David K., farmer, was born in East 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
November 19, 1865. He is a son of David 
and Sallie (Koons) Etter, both natives of 
East Hanover township. David Etter, Sr., 
has made farming his business for many 
years. Earlier in life he was a spangler, 
and for some years worked at that trade. 
He now lives retired from active work. His 
politics are Republican. He is a member 
of the Dunkard church. Mr. Etter married 
Miss Sallie Koons. They have these chil- 
dren : Lizzie, wife of George Baum ; Kate 
K., wife of Amos Gingerich ; John, died in 
1876; Joseph; David K; Samuel ; and Leah, 
wife of Isaac Basehore. 

David K. Etter had the usual opportuni- 
ties enjoyed in the common schools by the 
farmer boy who can be spared from busy 
toil only for a short time during the winter 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



699 



months. After receiving this limited intel- 
lectual training he remained with his father 
working on the farm until he was twenty- 
three years old. In 1889 he engaged in 
fanning for himself on the place where he 
now resides. Mr. Etter was married, May 
12,18S8,to Miss Fannie N., daughter of Jacob 
and Sarah Gingrich. They have one son, 
named Harry. Mr. Etter is one of the solid 
and reliable men of the community. He is 
a Republican. He is also a faithful mem- 
ber of the Dunkard church. 



Basehore, Benjamin, farmer, was born in 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
August 14, 1832 ; son of the late George and 
Polly (Etter) Basehore. His grandfather, 
Rev. George Basehore, was born in Berks 
county, Pa.; he was a weaver, and for many 
years carried on that business. He subse- 
quently engaged in farming and was so em- 
ployed up to the time of his death, which 
occurred in October, 1840, in the sixty-sixth 
year of his age. He was a man of intelli- 
gence and integrity and genuinely pious. 
For some years before his death he was a 
minister in the German Baptist- church, a 
godly and useful man. He married Miss 
Mary Fackler, who was born in Paxton 
township, Dauphin county ; she died in 
March, 1841, aged sixty-five. They had 
nine children : Michael, George, Catherine, 
wife of Daniel Miller; John; Abraham; 
Mary, wife of Jacob Hart ; Benjamin, Daniel 
and Wendel. 

George Basehore, father of Benjamin, was 
born in Berks county, Pa. He was a shoe- 
maker and worked at that trade for twenty- 
five years. The remainder of his life was 
spent in farming. He died in Paxton town- 
ship in 1890, aged eighty-seven years. His 
wife, Miss Polly Etter, was born in York 
county, Pa.; daughter of Rev. Lawrence 
Etter; she died in Paxton township in 1877, 
aged sixty-five. They had eleven children, 
of whom seven are living: Mary, wife of 
Elias Moore, deceased; Levi Peftiy ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of William Aungst; Benjamin; 
Leah; Rachel, wife of Levi Miller; and 
Susan. 

Benjamin Basehore enjoyed slender educa- 
tional advantages ; he attended the public 
schools of West Hanover township and was 
a diligent student. After receiving his 
school education he worked for his father on 
the home farm until he was twenty-one years 
of age and made farming his life work. He 



cultivated his father's farm in Lower Paxton 
township for nine years. In 1871 he re- 
moved to East Hanover township, to his 
farm, where he remained two years. Thence 
he removed to Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, and farmed for three years. His last 
removal was to the farm in East Hanover 
township, which he has ever since occupied 
and tilled. 

Mr. Basehore was married, May 31, 1S62, 
to Miss Rebecca, daughter of John and Re- 
becca (HefHing) Weber. They had seven 
children, three of whom are living: Mary, 
wife of Uriah Hook ; Lizzie, wife of Charles 
Marberger, and Sallie. 

In 1888 their family was sorely afflicted 
by the death of four of their precious chil- 
dren within a few days. They were cut 
down by that dreadful disease, scarlet fever. 
Although bowed down beneath the weight 
of this four-fold bereavement, the sorrowful 
family were submissive to the will of the 
Heavenly Father, who doetli all tilings well. 
The children who died with scarlet fever 
were: John W., died February 26, 1888, aged 
twenty-four years; George W., died Febru- 
ary 25, 1888, aged eighteen years; Rebecca, 
died February 16, 1888, aged fourteen years. 
and Daniel W., died March 7, 1SS8, at the 
age of eight years. In their great sorrow 
Mr. and Mrs. Basehore had the sympathy of 
all their neighbors. They are regarded as 
most excellent people. 

Bacastow, Franklin P., farmer, was born 
in Highspire, Dauphin county, Pa., May 31, 
1856; son of the late John and Mary (Bren- 
ner) Bacastow. His great-grandfather was 
born in Germany, and came to this country 
in early boyhood. George Bacastow, grand- 
father of Franklin P., was born in Berks 
county, Pa. He was a tanner, and was en- 
gaged in this business at the time of his 
death, which occurred in Dauphin county. 
Mr. Bacastow was married to Miss Elizabeth 
Hoover, born in Dauphin county. Pa. She 
died in the same county. They had three 
children: George, John, and Elizabeth, wife 
of Frederick Reichert. 

John Bacastow, father of Franklin P., was 
born in Hummelstown, Dauphin county. 
Pa., January 8, 1814. His occupation was 
farming. He also assisted his father in the 
management of his tannery. Mr. Bacastow 
was married, in 1852, to Miss Mary M., 
daughter of Peter Brenner. They had seven 
children: Elizabeth, wife of Daniel Kline; 



700 



BIO GRAPHIC! A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Rebecca, wife of Daniel Leise ; Franklin P., 
George T., Morris, Emma F., and Simon P. 
The father died January 4, 1879, aged sixty- 
four; the mother still survives. Both were 
faithful members of the Lutheran church. 
Mr. Bacastow's politics were Democratic. 

Franklin P. Bacastow is a self-made man. 
He received a short course in the public 
schools, but had to depend for his prepara- 
tion for the work of life principally upon 
his own efforts. In his youth he was en- 
gaged in farming, working for his father 
until he became of age. In 1879 Mr. Baca- 
stow began farming on bis own account, cul- 
tivating the farm of his father. Since 1883 
he has been engaged on the farm which he 
now occupies. In 1882 he was elected super- 
visor of East Hanover township, and served 
in this office for one year. During this year 
his farm was cultivated by his brother, Mor- 
ris Bacastow. Mr. Bacastow was married, 
November 15, 1883, to Miss Mary A., daugh- 
ter of John J. and Rebecca (Zimmerman) 
Urich. Five of their six children are living: 
Ira J., Clinton G., Mary M., Simon P., and 
Erwin M. Mr. Bacastow is a Democrat. He 
is a member of the Reformed church. 

John J. Urich, father of Mrs. Bacastow, 
was born in Lebanon county. He was a 
miller, and was for many years engaged in 
that business. In later life he undertook 
farming. His wife, Rebecca (Zimmerman) 
Urich, was the daughter of Michael and 
Margaret (Early) Zimmerman. Mr. and Mrs. 
Urich had : Mary A., wife of Mr. F. P. Baca- 
stow. 

Mr. Urich died in September, 1892. His 
wife is still living at the age of fifty-two, 
and resides in Lebanon county. 

Early, Israel, miller, was born in East 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
December 8, 1825 ; son of the late George 
and Catherine (Brightenstine) Early. His 
great-grandfather, William Early, was born 
in Firebaugh, Germany. He was a carpen- 
ter; he came to this country in 1725, and 
practiced his trade throughout life. His 
wife, Mr. Early's great-grandmother, was a 
native of Pennsylvania. Both died near 
Palmyra, Lebanon county, at a very great 
age. 

Christian Early, Israel Early's grand- 
father, was born in Lancaster county, now 
Lebanon county, Pa. He built the flour 
mill where his grandson, Israel Early, now 
lives. He also built the large mill at Man- 



ada Gap, now owned by Jacob Early. Chris- 
tian Early was married to Miss Elizabeth 
Killinger. They had twelve children : John, 
William, George, Christian, Jacob, Cathe- 
rine, Richgina, Elizabeth, Susan, Margaret, 
born April, 1803, died aged eighty-eight 
years ; one child died at the age of six 
months, and one died the day of birth. 

George Earty, father of Israel, was born in 
West Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
March 15, 1787. He spent his business life 
in the work of milling. He was twice mar- 
ried; first to Polly Gosert, by whom he had 
one daughter, named Polly. In his second 
marriage, in 1816, he was united to Cathe- 
rine Brightenstine, born in Manheim, Lan- 
caster county, daughter of Nicholas Bright- 
enstein. They had nine children, three of 
whom are living : Sarah, wife of Jacob Wolf, 
deceased; Israel, and Rosanna, wife of Henry 
II. Miller. George Early died in 1848, aged 
sixty-one years; his wife died in 1853, aged 
fifty-five. Both died at the old homestead, 
with their son Israel. Both were faithful 
members of the Lutheran church. 

Israel Early had only the limited educa- 
tion to be .obtained in the schools of his time. 
In 1836 the free schools were established, and 
he reaped much benefit from his attendance 
upon them. He was alert and ambitious, 
and by his own efforts prepared himself for 
the useful and successful life which he leads. 
In early life he was engaged in farming, in 
which occupation he continued until he was 
twenty-four. At that age he went to learn 
the trade of miller. This has ever since been 
his employment. He is now seventy-one 
years old, strong, and in good health. He is 
still in the old mill where he has served at 
least two generations, and where his father 
and grandfather worked before him. He is 
still able to do his own work in the mill. 
In 1847 he taught school for one term in 
East Hanover township. In 1864 he was 
drafted for service in the United States 
army, but was discharged on a surgeon's 
certificate, on account of the weakness of one 
of his eyes. In 1851 he was elected school 
director of East Hanover township, served 
for five years, and was re-elected for three 
years. Mr. Early was married January 15, 
1865, to Miss Frances M., daughter of John 
and Mary (Zerker) Getz. They have three 
children: Mary C, John G., and William. 

Mr. Earl}' names some of the neighbors 
around the Early homestead when he was a 
bo}'. Along the Jonestown road, in East 




^^P^-fezfe^ 






DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



703 



Hanover township, were Alexander Mc- 
knight and David, his brother; along the 
road westward lived Christian Shellenber- 
ger, who kept a hotel ; next, James French; 
Dr. Wenderstich ; John Reed ; George Good- 
man ; Christian Early, uncle of Israel Early; 
Philip Nitruer; Major Shell; Robert Hill ; 
Jacob Keim ; Benjamin Snodgrass. Along 
the Manada creek, near the West Hanover 
line, stood Adam Udder's mill ; Rogers' mill ; 
Samuel Todd's mill; Conrad Wagner; Jacob 
Stine; Berry Hill Bell ; Jacob Zimmerman ; 
John Snyder; David Killinger; Henry Zim- 
merman ; Abraham Meese ; Samuel McCord. 
Mr. Early is highly esteemed for his enter- 
prise and integrity. He is prosperous in 
business, and no citizen is more honored or 
more popular. 



Leese, Elijah, farmer, was born in East 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
July 23, 1855; son of the late Michael and 
Lydia (Laurer) Leese. Michael Leese was 
born in Reading, Berks county, Pa., October 
27, 1806. He was a farmer, and spent his 
life in his calling. He was married to Miss 
Lydia Laura, also born in Reading, Pa., 
January 15, 1814. They had thirteen chil- 
dren, of whom six are now living: Isabella; 
Emma, wife of Samuel Miller; Kate, wife 
of Joseph Beck; Levi, Henry, and Elijah. 
Their residence was at Manadaville, now 
Sand Beach, where Mr. Leese died at the 
age of eighty-four. His wife is still living, 
at the advanced age of eighty, and resides 
at Sand Beach. Mr. Leese was a Republi- 
can, and he and Mrs. Leese were both faith- 
ful members of the Evangelical church at 
Union Deposit, where Mr. Leese is buried. 

Elijah Leese improved faithfully the 
slender educational advantages which he 
enjoyed. There was hard work on the farm, 
summer and winter, with a few hours daily 
for a few weeks each year for school training. 
Yet diligent improvement of these oppor- 
tunities, and constant efforts to add to his 
stock of general information, prepared him 
as thoroughly as the average farmer boy ear, 
be prepared, for the business of life. He is 
entitled to all the honor I hat may attach to 
the self-made man. Mr. Leese continued to 
work on the farm with his father until he 
was twenty years of age. He was married, 
September II, bS7-">. to Miss Rebecca, daughter 
uf John and Mary (Brenner) Bacastow. 
They had three children, of whom two are 
living: John M. and Morris II. Shortly 
46 



after their marriage they removed to the 
farm on which they now have their home, 
and which they have cultivated since 1876. 
Their industry, skill and excellent manage- 
ment have yielded them liberal returns, 
and they are among the comfortable and 
contented people of the township. Mr. 
Leese is a good, solid Republican. He is 
actively interested in everything that tends 
to promote the welfare of the community. 

Buck, Elias B., was born in East Hanover 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., December 
14, 1841 ; son of the late Jacob and Denna 
(Brown) Buck. His paternal grandfather 
was born in Susquehanna township, Dau- 
phin county, and died in Berks county. The 
grandmother was born in Berks county. 

Jacob Buck, father of Elias B., was born in 
Upper Paxton township, Dauphin county. 
He was a fuller and carried on his business 
until within four years of his death. His 
marriage to Miss Denna, daughter of Philip 
Brown, born in Berks county, took place in 
that county. They had six children, of 
whom three are living : Eliza, wife of George 
Runkle; Catherine, wife of John Wiser; 
and Elias B. Jacob Buck died in East 
Hanover township, June 21, 1885, aged 
seventy-one; bis wife died at the same place 
in December, 1882. Mr. Buck was a Repub- 
lican. Both he and his wife were consistent 
members of the Dunkard church. 

Elias B. Buck attended the neighborhood 
schools, and made good use of his time and 
opportunities. His desire to succeed in busi- 
ness prompted him to gain knowledge from 
every available source. He made constant 
efforts to become intelligent and well in- 
formed on practical subjects. His energy 
and determination resulted in success. In 
tins sense lie is a self-made man, and may 
regard his prosperity as the fruits of his own 
labor. Mr. Buck was employed upon the 
farm until he was eighteen years old. In 
L864 he responded to the call of his country, 
and enlisted in company B, Twentieth regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania cavalry, lie served 
under (Jen. Phil. Sheridan in his brilliant 
campaign of 1864-05. One year and ten 
months alter Mr. Buck's enlistment the war 
was ended, and he was honorably discharged 
and resumed farming. This calling he has 
ever since diligently pursued, and with suc- 
cess. In lN.sT he Imilt the large and com- 
modious dwelling he now occupies. He has 
gradually made improvements and is com- 



704 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYGL OPEDIA 



fortably settled, with fair prospect for the 
enjoyment of life. Mr. Buck was married, 
December 22, 1867, to Miss Sarah A. E., 
daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Early) Wolf. 
Their children are: Clayton ; Clarissa, wife 
of Adam Shenk ; Alice, wife of Jeremiah 
Gipe, and Jacob. 

Jacob F. Wolf, father of Mrs. Buck, was 
born in East Hanover township, February 
24, 1819. He was a farmer. His wife, Miss 
Sarah Early, was born in the same township, 
October 19, 1819. They were married Octo- 
ber 22, 1843. Their children were : Moses, 
deceased, and Sarah, Mrs. E. B. Buck. Mr. 
and Mrs. Wolf were faithful members of the 
Lutheran church. Mr. Wolf was a Repub- 
lican. He died August 17, 1885, aged sixty- 
six. His wife has lived to the age of seventy- 
eight, and resides with her daughter, Mrs. 
Buck. 



Gipe, Jeremiah E., farmer, was born in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., Jan- 
uary 6, 1872; son of Peter and Caroline 
(Brown) Gipe. His paternal grandparents 
were both natives of Dauphin county, and 
both died in this county, the grandfather 
aged eighty-four years. 

Peter Gipe, father of Jeremiah E., was 
born in Derry township, in 1823. He learned 
shoemaking in his j'outh and followed that 
calling for many years. Later in life he was 
engaged in farming. His wife, Caroline, 
daughter of Christian Brown, was born in 
Derry township, in December, 1829. Five of 
their ten children are living: Henry; Cyrus; 
Mary, wife of Levi Curry ; Samuel, and 
Jeremiah. Mr. Peter Gipe is still farming, 
and is strong and active at the ripe age of 
seventy-five. His wife still enjoys life at the 
age of sixty-nine, In his political views Mr. 
Gipe is a good, solid Democrat. He belongs to 
the United Brethren church, and his wife is 
a faithful member of the Dunkard church. 

Jeremiah E. Gipe attended the township 
schools and industriously used the means to 
secure an education. After school days were 
ended he remained on the farm and assisted 
his father in its work. Mr. Gipe was mar- 
ried, December 12, 1892, to Miss Alice, 
daughter of Elias and Sarah (Wolf) Buck. 
They have one daughter, Annie E. Since 
1892 Mr. Gipe has been continuously and 
diligently engaged in cultivating the home 
farm, and has been successful. He is up with 
the times and is a progressive and enterpris- 
ing farmer. 



Lingle, Levi, farmer, was born in Upper 
Swatara township, Dauphin count}', Pa., 
August 11, 1835; son of the late John and 
Molly (Seibert) Lingle. John Lingle was 
born in Swatara township, and was a team- 
ster. His wife, Molly Seibert, was a native 
of the same township. Their children were : 
Mary, deceased, and Levi. Mr. John Lingle 
and his wife were both faithful members of 
the Dunkard church. 

Levi Lingle attended the schools of the 
township and made good use of such slender 
advantages as they afforded for mental train- 
ing and discipline, and for gaining useful 
information. In his younger days he was 
busily employed at farming with his uncle, 
John Sherk, in South Hanover township. 
Farming is the best of schools for business 
methods, so that a bright farmer's boy, em- 
ployed in agricultural work, is a trained 
business man by the time he is of age. Such 
was the case with Levi Lingle. He remained 
with his uncle until he was twenty-two, and 
was qualified for the management of a farm. 
In this business he was for several years en- 
gaged. In 1864 he enlisted in the United 
States army, and was assigned to company 
C, One Hundred and Ninety-second regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, in which he 
served for six months. After his discharge 
he continued farming for two years. For 
the following two years he was engaged in 
building post fences. Since that time he has 
been continuously occupied with farming. 

Mr. Lingle has been twice married. His 
first wife was Mary, daughter of Thomas 
and Annie Jacks. Of their nine children, 
seven are living: Sadie, wife of Amos Bell; 
Thomas ; Franklin ; Ida, wife of George 
Reigherger ; Alice, wife of Daniel France ; 
George, and Emma. Mrs. Mary Lingle died 
aged forty. In his second marriage, in 1875, 
Mr. Lingle was united to Miss Catherine, 
daughter of Joseph Fox. They have no 
children. Mr. Lingle is one of the older 
citizens of East Hanover township and is 
widely and favorably known. He is de- 
servedly honored and esteemed. He is a 
substantial and useful citizen, and interested 
in the welfare of the community. 



Lesher, Samuel H, farmer, was born on 
the homestead farm, East Hanover town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., October 8, 1854; 
son of the late Rev. Thomas and Polly (Bow- 
man) Lesher. He belongs to a family of 
substance and stability, and of sturdy char- 



DA UPHIN COUNTY. 



705 



acteristics. He is the third generation in 
his line to occupy and cultivate the home 
farm. 

His grandfather,, Jacob Lesher, was a 
native of Dauphin county, and a farmer. 
He was especially interested in raising fine 
blooded live stock, and had a reputation for 
breeding some of the best horses in the 
region. He was married to Miss Christiana 
Mertz, and had eight children : John, Jacob, 
Sallie, wife of a Mr. Gebhard, Gideon, Polly, 
Daniel, Thomas, and Samuel. Both he and 
his wife died suddenly, without sickness, on 
the homestead; Mr. Lesher, at the age of 
ninety-one. 

Rev. Thomas Lesher, father of Samuel H., 
was born on the old homestead, East Han- 
over township, April 4, 1812. He was occu- 
pied through life in farming, and was also 
an honored and useful minister of the United 
Brethren church. He traveled widely, preach- 
ing the gospel and ministering to the spiritual 
needs of the people. Polly Bowman, to 
whom he was married, was born in Leba- 
non count)', Pa., daughter of Jacob Bowman. 
They had six children: Jacob B., Samuel H., 
Kate, Lydia, John T., and Mary. Rev. Mr. 
Lesher was an ardent Republican, a warm- 
hearted and benevolent man, and a devoted 
father. He died August 14, 1894, aged 
eighty-two years, four months, and two days. 
His wife is still in excellent health at the 
age of seventy-two. She is a faithful mem- 
ber of the United Brethren church. 

Samuel H. Lesher attended the schools of 
the township and derived much profit from 
his school work. He belongs to a family of 
more than ordinary culture and intelligence, 
and found much help and intellectual stimu- 
lus at home. He learned the business of 
farming on the old homestead, and when 
manhood came was prepared to take the 
honored place of his ancestors as a first-class 
farmer. In 1S75 he took full charge of the 
home farm on his own account, and has ever 
since devoted his attention to its cultivation. 

Mr. Lesher was married, in October, 1874, 
to Miss Matilda, daughter of Thomas and 
Catherine (Light) Wagner. They have seven 
children, all living: Kate M., Henry G., 
Fannie, Cora, Ellen, Lydia, and Annie. In 
1894 Mr. Lesher was elected treasurer of the 
Cemetery Association at Union Deposit, Pa., 
and served for one year. In lNi>."> he was 
again elected to the same office. He filled 
the office of secretary of the Union Sunday- 
school for two years, and has served one year 



as its assistant superintendant. Mr. Lesher 
is a prominent citizen, and is very highly 
esteemed. 



Caley, Winfikld S., was born in Lancas- 
ter county, Pa., July 28, 1861 ; son of the 
late William and Harriet (Badruff) Caley. 
Joseph Caley, his grandfather, was born in 
Cumberland county, Pa., and was a farmer. 
He married a Miss McMullin, born in Lan- 
caster county, Pa., by whom he had nine 
children. Four are living: Catherine; 
Anna, wife of Adam Buffelmoyer: Harriet, 
wife of Jacob Heineca, and Jacob. Their 
deceased children are : Joseph ; Ellen, wife 
of Christian Over ; William E., father of 
Win field S.; Addison, and David. 

William E. Caley was born in Lancaster 
county, and in his boyhood learned pump 
making, which calling he followed for many 
years. He was subsequently employed as 
watchman on the Philadelphia and Read- 
ing railroad. He was twice married. By 
the first wife he had two children, both de- 
ceased, and secondly, to Miss Harriet Bad- 
rouff, born in Lancaster county. They had 
two sons: Jerome, deceased, and Winfield S. 
Mr. W. E. Caley enlisted in the army, and 
was in company K, Fifth regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, serving for three years. 
He received two gunshot wounds. For a 
few years after his discharge from the army 
Mr. Caley was employed in the furnaces at 
Cornwall, Lebanon county. Afterwards he 
again served the Philadelphia and Reading 
railroad as watchman, and in that position 
was killed by an accident. His wife is still 
living and resides in Lancaster county. 
Winfield S. Caley was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of Lancaster county. After fin- 
ishing his school education he was employed 
at farming with his father and among "the 
neighboring farmers until he was eighteen 
years old. After this he began work in the 
stone quarries. Since 1881 his employment 
has alternated between the farm and the 
quarry. In 1894 he bought the house in 
which he now lives. 

Mr. Caley was married, November 26, 
1881, to Miss Sarah J., daughter of William 
and Hannah (Enterline) Hetrieh. Five of 
their six children are living: William, 
Harry P., John H, Bertha and Mabel. Mary 
Ellen died March 8. 1885. Mr. Caley is a 
good solid. I>emoerat. lie and his wife are 
members of the Lutheran church. Begin- 
ning for himself early in life, Mr. Caley 



706 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



has pushed his way along the road, some- 
times up steep hills, sometimes over rough 
places, but still making progress, until now 
the way is smooth and the journey pros- 
perous. 

Bomgardner, John, farmer, was born in 
Lebanon county, Pa., July 20, 1842 ; son of 
George S. and Rebecca (Zeiker) Bomgardner. 
George S. Bomgardner was born in Lebanon 
county, in September, 1810. He was a shoe- 
maker, which trade he followed through life. 
His wife, Rebecca Zeiker, was born in Leba- 
non county in 1808. They have ten chil- 
dren, all living: Catherine, wife of Joseph 
Kline ; Abraham ; Mary A., wife of Eden 
Stoner, deceased; Gideon; Louisa; John; 
David, resides in Nebraska; George; Will- 
iam; Ellen, wife of Dr. Early. Mr. and Mrs. 
George S. Bomgardner were both faithful 
members of the United Brethren church. 
Mr. Bomgardner resides at Grantville, Dau- 
phin county, and is aged eighty-five years; 
his wife died in December, 1891, at eighty- 
five years of age. 

John Bomgardner took the regular course 
in the public schools of his native county. 
In his boyhood he learned shoemaking and 
worked at that trade until he was twenty- 
five years old ; after this he engaged in farm- 
ing, which has been his occupation since 
1888. On July 1, 1863, Mr. Bomgardner 
enlisted as private in company D, Forty- 
eighth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
the company commanded by Capt. David S. 
Seiber^. He served three months and was 
discharged August 23, 1863 ; he again en- 
listed August 26, 1864, in company I, Two 
Hundred and First regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, serving ten months, and was dis- 
charged at the close of the war, June 21, 

1865, when he resumed work at his trade. 
Mr. Bomgardner was married, October 18, 

1866, to Miss Maria, daughter of Henry and 
Phoebe (Isenhard) Gernert. They have 
eight children, all living: Phoebe R., wife of 
John Rambler; George E., Miles A., Mary 
L., Carrie May, Hannah D., John G., and 
Claudius E. In 1890 Mr. Bomgardner was 
elected school director of East Hanover town- 
ship and served efficiently for three years. 
He is a reliable man and a useful citizen, 
and stands well in the community. 

Henry Gernert, father of Mrs. Bomgardner, 
was born in Lehigh county, Pa., November 
6, 1818. In his younger days he was a 
farmer. In 1847 he purchased a hotel north 



of Jonestown, Lebanon county, and con- 
ducted it for eleven years. He was a pros- 
perous business man and universally popu- 
lar. He died at his hotel, November 1, 1860, 
aged forty-one years, eleven months and 
twenty-five days. He was married, Febru- 
ary 18, 1841, to Miss Phoebe Isenhard, born 
in Lehigh county, January 25, 1820. Six of 
their eight children are living: Matthew; 
Aaron ; Anna M., wife of Mr. Bomgardner ; 
Caroline, wife of Samuel Kreider ; Sarah, 
wife of Daniel Laudermilch ; and George Al- 
fred. Their deceased children are John 
Henry and Eliza. Mrs. Gernert died Decem- 
ber 31, 1860, aged forty. 

John Gernert, Mrs. Bomgardner's grand- 
father, was born October 21, 1780 ; he was 
married, August 20, 1805, to Miss Catherine 
Seighfert, born February 10, 1788 ; he died 
August 14, 1857, aged seventy years ; his 
wife died July 7, 1844, at the age of fifty-six. 
They had ten children: Jonas, Nathan, Solo- 
mon, Henry, William, Benjamin, Catherine, 
wife of Daniel Hinderline, Mary, wife of Mr. 
Boltz, Hannah, wife of Benjamin Donmoyer, 
and John. Mrs. Bomgardner's great-grand- 
father, Henry Gernert, was born in Germany, 
and came to this country when a boy. 



Hummer, Isaac N., farmer, was born in 
East Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., February 22, 1850 ; son of the late Ben- 
jamin and Eliza (Nowman) Hummer. Ben- 
jamin Hummer was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., in 1820. He was for many years 
a butcher, but was afterwards engaged in 
farming. His parents were farmers. Eliza 
Nowman, to whom he was married, was born 
in Lancaster county, March 13, 1826, and 
was the daughter of Samuel and Maria Now- 
man. Of their ten children seven are liv- 
ing: Samuel, Benjamin, Henry, Anna, wife 
of Percival Ney, Isaac N., John N., and 
Susan, wife of Edward Lingle. Their de- 
ceased children are: Abraham, Lizzie, and 
Amos. Mr. Hummer served as supervisor 
of East Hanover township for four years. 
He was a Republican. He died in October, 
1876, aged sixty-four. His wife is still in 
good health, at the age of seventy-six. 

Isaac N. Hummer received only a common 
school education. He was engaged with his 
father in the cultivation of his farm until he 
reached the age of twenty-two. In 1873 he 
began farming on his own account, and this 
has ever since been his calling. In 1890 he 
removed to the farm on which he now re- 



h.\rrnix county. 



707 



sides. Mr. Hummer is a warm Republican. 

In 1894 he was chosen inspector of elections, 
and still holds that office. He was married, 
January 9, 1873, to Miss Amanda, daughter 
of Samuel and Catherine (Strayer) Bright- 
bill. They have had twelve children, of 
whom ten are living : Emma S., wife of 
William F. Kline ; Katie Anna, wife of 
George W. Wade ; Samuel, John, Jennie, 
Lillie, Amanda, Isaac, Michael, and Ed- 
ward. Their deceased children are : Amos 
B., died September 20, 1873, aged six months 
and twenty-six days ; Maggie, died August 
20, 1887, aged eighteen days. Lillie, the 
seventh child, was born June 12, 1881. At 
her birth she was a natural and normal 
child. Ac the age of six weeks she had a 
sickness, the effect of which arrested her 
growth. Since the age of two years she has not 
grown an inch. She is now fifteen years old. 
Her weight is forty pounds, her height thirty- 
two inches, and her bust measures twenty- 
five inches. She wears a No. 6 shoe, child's 
size. She is intelligent and understands as 
well as the ordinary youth, but cannot talk 
plainly. She enjoys perfect health, and is 
the pet of the family. 

Samuel Brightbill, father of Mrs. Hum- 
mer, was a farmer. His wife, Catherine, was 
a daughter of George and Catherine Strayer. 
They had five children : Susan, wife of Will- 
iam Ulrich ; William ; Jeremiah ; Amanda, 
wife of I. N. Hummer ; John, deceased. Mr. 
Samuel Brightbill died July 6, 1886, aged 
seven ty-three years. His wife is still in good 
health, at the age of seventy-five, and re- 
sides at Palmyra, Pa. 



Gkrbericii, Daniel, farmer, was born in 
Dauphin county, Pa., November 25, 1842; 
son of the late Jacob and Maria (Rank) 
Gerberich. Jacob Gerberich was born in 
Dauphin county, and is the son of Jacob 
Gerberich, a native of the same county. Ja- 
cob Gerberich, Jr., was a farmer. His wife, 
Maria Rank, was also born in Dauphin 
county. They had seven children, five of 
whom are living: Joseph ; Daniel : Maria, wife 
of Aaron Zuber ; Emma, wife of Israel Het- 
rich, and Jacob. Their deceased children 
are: Saraband Catherine. Mr. Jacob Ger- 
berich was a Republican. He died in Dau- 
phin county in 1871, and his wife died in the 
same county in 1885. 

Daniel Gerberich wa« educated in the 
public schools. He was employed in fann- 
ing with his father until he was twentv-five 



years old. In 18G7 he engaged in farming 
for himself; this has since been his occupa- 
tion. Mr. Gerberich was married, December 
10, 1881, to Miss Kate R., daughter of Moses 
and Molly (Long) Keller, born in South 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, May 
14, 1857. They have two children: Sadie 
and Daniel. Mr. Gerberich is a solid Re- 
publican. 

Moses Keller, father of Mrs. Gerberich, 
was a native of Dauphin count}', and a 
farmer. He married Miss Molly Long, by 
whom he had seven children, all now living : 
Maiy, wife of Clemens Gingerich ; Moses; 
Kate R., Mrs. Gerberich ; Sarah, Mrs. Frank- 
lin McCord ; Daniel, John, and Mahlon. 
Mr. Keller is a warm Republican. He makes 
his home with his children. He is a mem- 
ber of the United Brethren church. His 
wife died in 1SS2, aged fifty-five ; she also 
was a faithful member of the United Breth- 
ren church. 



Heisy, Jacob H., farmer, was born in 
Lancaster county, October 1, 1841; son of the 
late John and Kate (Hershey) Heisy. Joseph 
Heisy, his grandfather, was a native of Lan- 
caster county, Pa. He removed from that 
county to Franklin county, where he was 
engaged in farming, and where both he and 
his wife died. 

Rev. Joseph Hershey, maternal grand- 
father of J. H. Heisy, was a native of Lan- 
caster county. He married Miss Kate Wit- 
mer, by whom he bad nine children: Bar- 
bara, wife of David Martin ; Fannie, wife of 
Benjamin Ritter ; Kate, wife of Jacob Heisy ; 
Annie, wife of Henry Metzer; one who mar- 
ried Joseph Gish ; Mary, wife of J 'avid 
Horst ; Susan, wife of Abraham Young; 
Joseph, and Jacob. Rev. Mr. Hershey and 
his wife died in Lancaster county. 

John Heisy, father of Jacob H., was born 
in Lancaster county. He was a blacksmith, 
and was also engaged in farming and in 
butchering. Miss Kate Hershey. whom he 
married, was also born in Lancaster county. 
They had thirteen children, of whom ten 
are living: Annie, Henry, Jacob H., Joseph. 
David, Kate, wife of Leonard Smith, Mary, 
Christian, Amos, and Cyrus. Theirdeceased 
children are: John, Israel, and Samuel. 
John Heisy died November 11, 1894, at the 
age of seventy-nine : his wife died January 
11, 1893. Both were members of the River 
Brethren church. Mr. Heisy was a solid 
Republican, 



708 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



His son, Jacob H. Heisy, received a limited 
education, and is for the most part a self- 
made man. He worked out among the far- 
mers as a hired boy, and in this way he be- 
gan the business of life, and learned farm- 
ing, which he has made his occupation. He 
cultivated a farm for six years in Lancaster 
county. In 1875 he removed to East Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., to the 
farm which is now his home and which he 
has ever since cultivated, except during two 
years spent in Lebanon county. In 1864 
Mr. Heisy was drafted for the army, but 
finding it impracticable to leave home, he 
paid three hundred dollars which procured 
a substitute. Mr. Heisy was married, No- 
vember 21, 1869, to Miss Susan, daughter of 
Peter and Susan (Grove) Meashey, born in 
Lancaster county, September 6. 1850. Of 
their nine children, seven are living : Emma, 
wife of Cyrus Hoover ; Harry H.; Savilla 
and Henry E., twins ; Amanda M., Samuel 
P., and Francis. Their deceased children 
are Jacob F. and Edward G. 

Peter Meashey, father of Mrs. Heisy, was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa. He was mar- 
ried, to Miss Susan, daughter of Abraham 
and Annie Grove, and a native of Lancaster 
county. They had nine children, of whom 
six survive: Peter; Maria, wife of William 
Barnhard, deceased, and now wife of John 
Stouffer ; Susan, wife of J. H. Heisy; Lizzie, 
wife of Henry Nowman ; Jacob, and Amanda, 
wife of Cyrus Heisy. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : Anna, Abraham, and Amos. Mr. 
Meashey was a butcher and also a farmer of 
Lancaster county. He died November 12, 
1894, aged seventy-six years. His wife died 
June 1, 1889, at the age of sevent3'-two. 
Both were members of the old Brethren 
church. Abraham and Annie Meashey, 
paternal grandparents of Mrs. Heisy, were 
both natives of Lancaster county. 

Loudermilch, Henry, was born on the 
old homestead farm in East Hanover town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., July 24, 1837. 
He is a son of the late Henry and Margaret 
(Early) Loudermilch. His great-grandfather 
was a native of Germany. John Louder- 
milch, grandfather of Henry Loudermilch, 
Jr., was a native of Berks county, and was a 
farmer. He was married to Miss Barbara 
Moyer. Their children were: Mary, wife of 
John Albert; Sallie, wife of Samuel Rauch; 
Elizabeth, wife of John Wagner; Barbara, 
wife of William] Albert ; John, and Kate, died 



in infancy. Mr. John Loudermilch died on 
the homestead farm, the present residence of 
his grandson. His wife died at the same 
place. 

Henry Loudermilch, Sr., was born in Dau- 
phin county, Pa., in April, 1801, and was a 
farmer. His wife, Margaret Early, was born 
in Lebanon county, Pa., in May, 1801; 
daughter of William and Catherine (Her- 
shey) Early. They had five children, of 
whom three are living: Catherine, wife of 
Joseph Gingerich ; Mary, and Henry, Jr. 
William and John are their deceased chil- 
dren. The father died in April, 1871, aged 
seventy, and the mother in May, 1891, aged 
ninety-one. 

Henry Loudermilch, Jr., received his edu- 
cation in the common schools. He was 
reared on the farm and was industriously 
employed in farm work until he was twenty- 
two years of age. In 1859 he engaged in 
butchering, which he carried on for many 
years. During this time he also kept a gro- 
cery store, and for two years kept hotel at 
the old homestead, where he now resides. 
In 1867 Mr. Loudermilch sold his store to 
Joseph Landis and resumed the business of 
farming and dealing in live stock. In 1872 
he removed to Wayne county, 111., and for 
seven years was engaged there in farming, 
butchering and dealing in lumber. In 1879 
he returned from the West, making the jour- 
ney with his four-mule team in twenty-two 
days. In all that time he inquired the way 
only twice. He crossed the Lost river nine 
times in two days. He crossed every river 
by ferry boat except the Susquehanna. One 
day he got upon the wrong road and traveled 
sixty miles; in the evening he found him- 
self only four miles from his starting place 
of that morning. Mr. Loudermilch resumed 
his residence on the old homestead, where 
he now lives retired from active business. 

In 1862 Mr. Loudermilch was drafted for 
the three months' service. He was drafted 
twice afterwards, the third time for three 
years' service. On retiring from the army 
he resumed his traffic in live stock. Mr. 
Loudermilch was married, October 7, 1859, 
to Miss Catherine, daughter of William and 
Anna (Hain) Cassel, born in Upper Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., August 29, 
1842. Three of their four children are 
living : Samuel ; Catherine, wife of Daniel 
Imboden, and John, Henry died in Green 
county, 111. 

William Cassel, father of Mrs. Louder- 



n.irrinx county. 



709 



milch, was a native of Dauphin county and 
a fanner. He married Miss Anna, daugh- 
ter of Adam Haiu, also a native of Dauphin 
county. Seven of their eleven children are 
living: John; William; Hannah, wife of 
John Ellser, deceased ; Fannie, wife of Peter 
Ruth, deceased; Catherine, Mrs. Louder- 
milch, and Samuel. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : Mary, wife of Isaac Straw ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of Jacob Siegrist , Sophia, wife of 
Joseph West, and one who died in infancy. 
Mr. and Mrs. Cassel died in the township in 
which they were born and spent their lives. 

Stahle. Noah L., painter, was born in 
East Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., May 20, 1845. He is a son of the late 
Jacob and Lydia (Leob) Stahle. His grand- 
parents were both natives of Germany. They 
had two children: Gotlieb and Jacob, both 
now deceased. Jacob Stahle, father of Noah 
L., was born in Dauphin county, March 31, 
1805. He was a shoemaker. He married 
Miss Lydia Leob, born in Dauphin county. 
Eight of their nine children are living: John; 
Amanda, wife of Jeremiah Gossert, deceased ; 
Mary, wife of James Witman ; Louisa, sec- 
ond wife of James Witman; Henry; Will- 
iam ; Annie, wife of David Demming ; Noah 
L., and Sarah, wife of Joseph Lingle. Mary, 
first wife of James Witman, died twenty-five 
years ago. The father died October 23, 1S95, 
at the advanced age of ninety ; his wife died 
February 7, 1877, aged seventy-two years. 
Jacob Stahle was a Democrat. He and his 
wife were members of the Lutheran church. 

Noah L. Stahle had slender educational 
advantages in his youth. He attended the 
public schools of his township and worked 
upon the farm with his father until he was 
seventeen. In 1862 he went to learn cabinet 
making, at which trade he worked for twelve 
years. Finding his arms not strong enough 
for this trade, he went in 1874 to learn that 
of painting, which has since been his occu- 
pation. For the past eighteen years he has 
been both painter and farmer. He tills the 
farm upon which he now has his residence. 
Mr. Stahle was married, May 4, 1874, to Miss 
Sarah E., daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth 
(Kerr) Landis. They have four children, 
all living: Minnie, wife of George Kline; 
Robert L., Sadie V., and Charles N. Mr. 
Stahle was elected inspector of elections in 
1894, in East Hanover township, for one year. 

Samuel Landis, father of Mrs. Stahle, was 
born in Dauphin county, Pa., and was a car- 



penter. He married Miss Elizabeth Kerr, 
by whom he had four children : Sarah, wife 
of N. L. Stahle; John ; Clara, wife of Mahlon 
Snyder, deceased ; Minnie, wife of Martin 
Capp. Mr. Landis died February 7, 1883, 
aged sixty. His wife survives, at sixty-five 
years of age, and resides in Lancaster county. 
Both were members of the United Brethren 
church. John Landis, Mrs. Stahle's grand- 
father, was born in Dauphin county, and 
was a farmer. He reared a family of six 
children, of whom three are still living : 
Catherine, wife of Christian Smith ; Jacob, 
and Mary, wife of Jeremiah Hoover. 



Withers, Samuel G., farmer, was born in 
Lebanon county, Pa., December 20, 1846 ; a 
son of the late Samuel and Anna (Werher) 
Withers. His grandfather, George Withers, 
married a Miss Lutz, by whom he had eight 
children. Mr. George Withers died in Leba- 
non county, aged seventy-seven. 

Samuel Withers, father of Samuel G., was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., January 12. 
1819; son of the late George Withers. He 
was educated in the public schools, and was 
engaged with his father upon the farm until 
he was twenty-five years old. He dealt in 
livestock for the next fifteen years, handling 
none but fine blooded stock. He was also 
in the hotel business for two years. During 
this time he erected a large and commodi- 
ous building ; after occupying it for two 
years he exchanged it for a farm in East 
Hanover township, lately owned by John 
Blanch, and cultivated it for two years. He 
then rented the farm, and removed to Pal- 
myra, Pa. He returned to his farm twice, 
but finally settled down in Palmyra, where he 
was for some years in the coach, lumber and 
machine business. While in the lumber 
business he resided with his father. 

Mr. Withers was married, in 1S44, to Miss 
An na, daughter of Jacob and A una (Thomas) 
Werner, born in Lebanon county, in Octo- 
ber, 1821. They had five children, of whom 
two are living: Samuel G., and Amanda E., 
wife of William Ohnmacht. Their chil- 
dren are: Sarah W.. Mrs. David W. Cassel; 
Anna, Mrs. Benjamin Early, and Susan K. 
Mr. Withers died at Palmyra. Pa., aged 
seven ty-two, and his wife died in East Han- 
over township, in 1879, aged fifty-eight 
years. Mr. Withers was an ardent Republi- 
can and a devout Christian. 

Samuel G. Withers received his education 
in the common schools. When he was 



710 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



twenty-one he went to Campbellstown, Leba- 
non county, where he found employment for 
one year as clerk in the dry goods and 
grocery store of Mr. William Brunner. In 
1863 Mr. Withers taught school for one term. 
After this, for about ten years, he assisted his 
father in the cultivation of the farm. From 
1879 to 1881, he was in Annville, Pa., and 
from thence removed to East Hanover town- 
ship, Dauphin county, to the farm on which 
he now resides, and in the cultivation of 
which he has ever since been engaged. Mr. 
Withers was married, January 19, 1879, to 
Miss Lizzie, daughter of John and Kate 
(Grupp) Laudermilch. They had five chil- 
dren : Bertha E., Amy M., Mabel, Elsie C„ 
and Oscar R. Mr. Withers is a warm Re- 
publican. He is a faithful member of the 
Reformed church. 

Jacob Werner, maternal grandfather of 
Samuel G. Withers, was a farmer. He was 
married to Miss Anna Thomas, by whom he 
had five sons and three daughters : Henry, 
Jacob, John , David, Joseph , Bessie, Sarah , and 
Anna. Mr. Werner spent his life in Leba- 
non county, where he died, aged sixty-five 
years. 



Hetrich, Eden, farmer, was born in East 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 2, 1843. He is a son of William 
and Jane (Fitting) Hetrich. His grand- 
father, Philip Hetrich, was a native of Ger- 
many. He came to this country and mar- 
ried a Miss Brightbill. William Hetrich, 
father of E. Hetrich, was born in Lebanon 
county, Pa., in August, 1813 ; son of the late 
Philip Hetrich. In early boyhood he 
learned the trade of spangler, which calling 
he followed for many years. For the re- 
mainder of his life he was a farmer. He 
was married to Miss Jane Fitting. Mr. Het- 
rich is still in excellent health at the ad- 
vanced age of eighty-four. He resides in 
Shellsville, East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. His wife died in Decem- 
ber, 1873, aged seventy-two years. 

Eden Hetrich received onl}' a limited edu- 
cation. He assisted his father upon the farm 
until he was twenty-five. He has made 
farming his life pursuit. Mr. Hetrich was 
married, October 12, 1867, to Miss Malinda, 
daughter of John and Maria (Gerberich) 
Lingle ; she was born in August, 1849. Six 
of their seven children are living: George 
H.; Ida, wife of Aaron Grubb ; Cora. Will- 
iam, Annie, and John. Mr. Hetrich is a 



warm Republican. In 1887 he was elected 
tax collector, and efficiently performed the 
duties of this office for one year. In 1888 
he was chosen inspector of elections, and 
served in this office for one year. He served 
as auditor of East Hanover township for six 
years. Mr. Hetrich is a faithful member of 
the Reformed church. His wife died April 
7, 1892, aged forty-two years. 
- John Lingle, father of Mrs. Hetrich, was 
born in East Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, and was a farmer. His wife was 
Miss Maria Gerberich, a native of Dauphin 
county, daughter of John Gerberich. They 
had eight children: John A., Thomas, Emma, 
wife of Moses Fackler; Annie, wife of Levi 
Hauer, and Milton. Their deceased chil- 
dren are: Malinda, Mrs. Eden Hetrich; 
Henry, and Ellen. Mr. Lingle died in Oc- 
ber, 1884, aged sixty-two. His wife is still 
in the enjoyment of good health at the age 
of sixty -seven. 

Shenk, Adam R., farmer and butcher, 
was born in South Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 25, 1868. He is 
a son of the late Daniel and Susan (Rider) 
Shenk. His grandfather, Rev. Jacob Shenk, 
was born in Dauphin county and was a 
farmer. He was also an honored minister 
of the Dunkard church, and spent much of 
his time in attending to the spiritual needs of 
the people. 

Michael Rider, maternal grandfather of 
Mr. A. R. Shenk, was born in Dauphin 
county. He was for many years a miller, 
but later in life engaged in farming. Mr. 
Rider married Elizabeth Brinser, a native 
of Dauphin county, daughter of Rev. Mor- 
decai Brinser, farmer and pastor of the 
Dunkard church. They had eight children : 
Susan, widow of Daniel Shenk ; Emma, wife 
of Harry Lackmayer, of Iowa ; Elizabeth, 
wife of Levi Jones; Adam; Henry; Annie, 
wife of Solomon Fackler ; Sarah, wife of 
Aaron Engle, and Jacob, deceased. 

Daniel Shenk, father of Adam R., was 
born in Dauphin county, and was a farmer. 
He was married to Miss Susan, daughter of 
Michael and Elizabeth Rider, born in Dau- 
phin county. They had twelve children, of 
whom seven are living: Mary, wife of Henry 
Shope; Christian, Jacob, Peter, Adam R., 
Michael, and Susan. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : Daniel, Lizzie, Milton, and two 
that died in infancy. Mr. Daniel Shenk was 
a Republican. He served one year as super- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



711 



visor of South Hanover township. He was 
a member of the Dunkard church. He died 
March 18, 1885. His wife still survives him, 
hale and hearty, at the age of fifty-seven, and 
resides in Palmyra, Pa. 

Adam R. Shenk took only a partial course 
of instruction in the public schools. At 
twelve years of age he worked at butchering, 
attending school at the same time. From 
that time until he was twenty-one he was 
hired out among the farmers. In 1890 he 
began to learn the painter's trade, but after 
six months' work, finding the work injurious 
to his health, he abandoned it, and resumed 
farming and butchering, which callings he 
has since pursued. He attends the Harris- 
burg market, on Broad street, twice a week. 
Mr. Shenk was married, January 9, 1892, to 
Miss Clarissa, daughter of Elias and Sarah 
(Wolf) Buck. They have one son, Daniel J. 
Mr. Shenk is a good, solid Republican. He 
is enterprising in business and prosperous. 
Personally, he is highly esteemed. 



Shriver, Henry, farmer, was bom in 
Lebanon county, Pa., August 8, 1826; son of 
the late Jacob and Elizabeth (Shirk) Shriver. 
His paternal grandparents were both natives 
of Lebanon county, where they reared a 
family. The grandfather died in 1828 and 
the grandmother in 1872. Jacob Shriver, 
father of Henry, was born in Lebanon 
county, and was a blacksmith. His wife, 
Elizabeth Shirk, was also a native of Leba- 
non county. Their only surviving child is 
Henry Shriver. A deceased child is Cathe- 
rine, wife of Peter Ney. Mr. Shriver died 
and Mrs. Shriver was joined in her second 
marriage to Peter Heims, by whom she had 
one daughter, Sarah, wife of Solomon 
Granger. After the death of Mr. Heims, 
the widow was married to her third hus- 
band, George Fornwalt. They had one 
child, who died in infancy. 

Henry Shriver received his education in 
the public schools of Lebanon and Dauphin 
counties. Left an orphan at an early age, 
he had to struggle on in his own way. He 
lived out among farmers, and sometimes 
found life hard. Sometimes he was at farm 
work, and at other times he was driving 
team. He finally settled down to farming 
as his regular occupation. Mr. Shriver was 
married, April 18, 1858, to Miss Luanda, 
daughter of John and Sarah (Hoofnagel) 
Snyder. Their children are: "William, John 
A., and Lucretia, wife of William Aungst. 



In 1862 Mr. Shriver was drafted for service 
in the army. In 1865 he was again drafted 
and paid three hundred dollars substitute 
money. He is a Republican, In 1876 he 
was elected supervisor of East Hanover 
township and served in this office for one 
year and a half. In 1879 he was again 
elected to the same office and served one 
year. In 1891 he was elected for a third 
term and once more served one year. He is 
a member of the United Brethren church. 

John Snyder, father of Mrs. Shriver, was 
a native of Dauphin county, and a tailor. 
In later life he became a farmer, on the 
homestead, where his daughter, Mrs. Shriver, 
now lives. 

John A. Shriver, a son of Henry Shriver, 
was born at the homestead. He took the 
regular course in the public schools of the 
township and assisted his father on the farm 
until he was nineteen years old. He then 
attended the Witmer College, at Palmyra, 
Pa., for two terms, after which he studied 
for two terms at the Lebanon Valley College 
(United Brethren), Annville, Pa. At the 
age of twenty-two Mr. John A. Shriver began 
teaching school, and has since been contin- 
uously occupied with the work of teaching. 
Mr. Shriver was married, in 1877, to Miss 
Maggie, daughter of John and Rosa (Kruse) 
Hinkle. They have three children : Harrv 
E., Charles W. and Lillie W. Mr. Shriver 
teaches and has his residence in Derry. 
His ability as an educator is universally 
recognized and he is held in esteem for his 
personal worth. 



Hoerner, John, retired farmer, was born 
in West Hanover township, now East Han- 
over, Dauphin county, Pa., April 17, 1813; 
son of the late Major John and Magdalena 
(Ebersole) Hoerner. Andrew Hoerner. his 
grandfather, was a native of Germany ; he 
came to this country when a boy and settled 
on the farm which became the homestead of 
his family, and it has been in their posses- 
sion up to this time. It has been the birth- 
place and dwellingplace of three generations, 
and is now enjoyed by representatives of the 
fourth and fifth. A small town named 
Hoernerstown and a school house now oc- 
cupy part of this farm. Andrew Hoerner 
served in the Revolutionary war. The rifle 
he carried is carefully preserved as a relic 
and is in possession of Cyrus Hoerner 
brother of John. 

Major John Hoerner, their father, was born 



712 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



in 1783 ; he was a farmer and owner and cul- 
tivated the old homestead farm ; he served in 
the war of 1812. The bayonet of his gun is 
preserved in perfect condition and is in the 
possession of his son, John Hoerner. Major 
Hoerner was married, in 1805, to Miss Mag- 
dalena, daughter of Peter Ebersole, a native 
of Dauphin county. They had twelve chil- 
dren, six of whom are living: John, Louisa, 
Barbara, wife of Henry Yingst, Peter, Albert 
and Cyrus. Their deceased children are : 
Jacob, born in 1807, died in 1825; Andrew; 
David, born in May, 1811, died in August, 
1893; Anna,died aged eighteen years; Ellen; 
Maggie, born December 25, 1815, married to 
John Nunnemacher, died in 1864. Major 
Hoerner lived on the old homestead for sev- 
eral years retired from active duties and died 
aged ninety-two. He was a Republican, and 
he and his wife were both members of the 
Lutheran church. 

John Hoerner, son of Major Hoerner, re- 
ceived only a partial education in the common 
schools as conducted before the present 
system was established. He was engaged 
with his father in the cultivation of the home 
farm until he was twenty years old; he then 
went to learn blacksmithing, which calling 
he followed until 1841. Mr. Hoerner was 
married, November 11, 1841, to Miss Mary, 
daughter of Barnhard and Sarah (Wombech) 
Rauch, born on the homestead, now owned 
by Mr. John Hoerner, on August 30, 1813. 
Of their three children, two died in infancy ; 
the surviving child is Isaac. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Hoerner followed his trade for 
about fifteen years. During the following 
fifteen years he was farming, and after this 
he retired from active business. In 1868 Mr. 
Hoerner was elected supervisor of East Han- 
over township and served two years. After 
this he was elected auditor of the same town- 
ship and served many years. In 1876 he 
was elected assistant elector of Hanover town- 
ship and held the office for three years ; he 
has always been a decided and active Repub- 
lican. His wife died September 3, 1892. 
Mrs. Hoerner was an affectionate and faith- 
ful mother, a devout Christian, and a con- 
sistent member of the Reformed church ; she 
died at the age of seventy-nine. After her 
departure Mr. Hoerner lived alone, keeping 
house by himself, until within the last year; 
he enjoys good health at the age of eighty- 
two. He is a member of the Reformed 
church and a liberal contributor to all church 
work. 



Bernard Rauch, father of Mrs. Hoerner, 
was married, in 1811, to Miss Sarah Wom- 
bech. They had six children, of whom 
Peter is the only survivor; he resides in 
Michigan. His deceased children are : Mary, 
who was Mrs. Hoerner; Catherine, wife of 
John Lentz ; Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Wal- 
mer ; and Susan, wife of Daniel Hetrick. 



Thome, Charles V., M. D., was born in 
Londonderry township, Lebanon county, 
Pa., June 16, 1835. He is a son of the late 
Dr. Samuel N.and Margaret (Jeffries) Thome. 
Dr. Samuel H. was born in Lancaster county, 
Pa. He practiced medicine in Lebanon 
county for forty-five years. He also had a 
large practice in Dauphin county. His wife, 
Margaret Jeffries, was a native of Lancaster 
county. They had six children, of whom 
five are living : William H., a prominent 
physician of Palmyra, Pa.; Charles V.; 
Emma, wife of Dr. P. J. Roebuck, of Lititz, 
Lancaster count}', Pa.; John M., residing in 
Cordovia, Argentine Republic, South Amer- 
ica, as director of an astronomical observa- 
tory ; Samuel W., American Consul at As- 
sumption, Paraguay, South America. Dr. 
S. H. Thorne died in 1874. His wife died in 
December, 1895. 

Dr. Charles V. Thome spent his youthful 
days at Palmyra, Pa. His primary educa- 
tion was received in the public schools of 
that place. He attended White Hall Acad- 
emy, Cumberland county, Pa. He read 
medicine with his father and with Dr. C. G. 
Gloninger, of Lebanon, Pa. While study- 
ing with his father, in 1862, he enlisted in 
company E, One Hundred and Twenty- 
seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served nine months. During this time 
he took part in several battles, among the 
most notable of which are those of Fred- 
ericksburg and Chancellorsville. In the latter 
engagement he was wounded in the head 
by a fragment from a bursting shell. He 
was honorably discharged from the service, 
at Harrisburg, and at once returned to 
Lebanon, Pa., and resumed the study of his 
profession. 

In 1863 Mr. Thome entered the Univer- 
sity of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, and 
in 1866 received his diploma from that in- 
stitution, with the degree of doctor of medi- 
cine. He at once began practice, in connec 
tion with his father, at Palmyra. After a 
little more than a year, he was appointed as- 
sistant physician at the State Insane Asylum. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



713 



This position he held for over three years, 
and then practiced at Lititz for two years. 
Since 1873 he has been practicing in East 
Hanover township. 

Dr. Thome was married, at Palmyra, in 
1872, to Miss Emma P., daughter of Moses 
and Mary (Rambler) Early, residents of 
East Hanover township. Two of the three 
children of Dr. and Mrs. Thome are living: 
Charles C. and Edgar R. One died in in- 
fancy. Dr. Thome is a member of Ashara 
Lodge, No. 98. Marietta, Pa. 

Brown, Gone H., was born in East Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., No- 
vember 6, 1858 ; son of the late John and 
Margaret (Snoddv) Brown. The father, John 
Brown, was born February 25, 1813. He 
was married, March 16, 1837, to Miss Mar- 
garet Snoddy. They had twelve children, 
eleven of whom are living : John ; Mary, wife 
of a Mr. Hite, deceased, afterwards of James 
Jones, deceased, and, thirdly, of Amos Cassel ; 
William ; Calvin; Samuel S.; James; Jacob; 
Margaret, wife of Anthony Fetterman ; Sarah, 
wife of Isaac Boyer; Gone H., and George. 
The deceased child is Lydia. Mr. Brown 
was a carpenter and continued in that voca- 
tion for many years. After his marriage he 
became a farmer. He first occupied the 
farm owned by a Mr. Moon, and tilled it 
for some years. From this farm he removed 
to the one owned by Jacob Poorman. Thence 
he removed to the farm of Bern hard Rauch, 
now the property of John Hoerner. His 
next removal was to the farm owned by a 
Mr. Sheets, and the next and last to the old 
homestead farm, where he made his home 
with his son, and where both he and his 
wife died ; Mr. Brown, November 20, 1889, at 
the age of seventy-six, and Mrs. Brown, May 
21, 1881. Her age was sixty-four years, one 
month and twelve days; she had been mar- 
ried forty-four years, two months and five 
days, ami had reared a family of twelve 
children. She had forty-five grandchildren, 
of whom thirty-five were living at the time of 
her death. 

Gone H. Brown was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of East Hanover township. He 
hired out to assist the farmers until lie was 
twenty-three years old. He then learned 
plastering and has made it his principal em- 
ployment. He is also engaged in farming. 
Since 1883 he has regularly attended the 
Harrishurg markets. Mr. Brown was mar- 
ried, January 3, 1SS3, to Miss Lizzie, daugh- 



ter of Benjamin and Catherine (Lehman) 
Lehman. She was born January 11, 1855. 
They have no children. He is a Republi- 
can. He and his wife are members of the 
United Brethren church, at Grantville. 

Benjamin Lehman, father of Mrs. Brown, 
was born in Londonderry township, Leb- 
anon county, Pa., November 13, 1813. He 
was a cooper for some years. After his mar- 
riage he exchanged his occupation for that 
of farming, which was his vocation for the 
remainder of his life. Mr. Lehman was 
married to Miss Catherine Lehman, a native 
of Lebanon county. They had these chil- 
dren: Benjamin, Annie, Mary, David, Jacob, 
Kate, wife of Melias Moyer, Lizzie, wife of 
G. H. Brown, Peter, Daniel, Fannie, de- 
ceased, and Martin, deceased. In 1882 Mr. 
Lehman was elected supervisor of East Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, and served 
for one year. In 1872 he removed from 
Londonderry township, Lebanon county, to 
East Hanover township, in the same county, 
to the farm then owned by Jacob Urich, 
which he cultivated for five years. Thence 
he removed to East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, to the farm of Henry Horst, on 
which he remained for eleven years. His 
next removal was to the farm of Solomon 
Cassel, which he tilled for three years. He 
then returned to Londonderry township, 
Lebanon county, to his old homestead, where 
he spent the remainder of his life. His wife 
died April 16, 1882. They were members of 
the Mennonite church. 



Etter, Rev. David, minister in the 
Dunkard church, East Hanover township, 
was born in East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 19,1826; son of 
Lawrence and Salome (Kline) Etter. The 
grandfather, Lawrence, was a native of 
Switzerland. He came to this country when 
nine years old and learned the trade of car- 
penter and followed that occupation. The 
father was a native of York county and was 
born April 2, 1787. He was a carpenter by 
trade. His first wife was Miss Elizabeth 
Baulbaugh, born in East Hanover town- 
ship, February 14, 18S7, to whom were born 
eight children : Mary, Mrs. George Bashore; 
Elizabeth, Mrs. Abraham Bashore; Cathe- 
rine, Mrs. Henry Lare ; Leah, Mrs. Benja- 
min Gorman ; Rachel, second wife of Abra- 
ham Bashore; Jacob, John, and Sallie. He 
married, secondly, Miss ' Salome Kline, 
August 23, 1823, and to this marriage were 



714 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



bora six children, of whom the only survivor 
is David. The father died November 9, 
1853, aged sixty-six years. 

David received only a common school 
education, and learned the carpenter trade, 
at which he worked for twenty years. Later 
he became a farmer and has followed this 
occupation for fifty t years, and in 1893 he re- 
tired from the active work on the farm. For 
the past thirty years Mr. Etter has been a 
minister in the Dunkard church, and since 
1885 has been an elder in the district of 
East and West Hanover, the position which 
he now fills with acceptance. He was mar- 
ried, August 19, 1848, to Miss Sarah Koons, 
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Walmer) 
Koons. Their children are : Lizzie K., wife 
of George Baum ; Kate, wife of Amos Ging- 
rich; Joseph K.; Sarah, wife of David 
Becker; David K.; Samuel K.; Leah, wife of 
Isaac Bash ore ; John K., died July 27, 1875, 
aged seventeen years. John Koons, father 
of Mrs. Etter was a native of Lebanon 
county. He first married Miss Elizabeth 
Walmer, and they had seven children : 
Sallie, Mrs. Etter ; Lydia, Kate, George, 
Elizabeth, Maria, and John. He married, 
secondly, Miss Mollie Dutwieler. He died 
in December, 1877, aged seventy-nine years. 



Snyder, William, Grantville, Pa., was 
born in East Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., November 7, 1819 ; son of the 
late John and Sarah (Hoofnackle) Snyder. 
John, the father, was born in Dauphin 
county, July 12, 1788. He followed the oc- 
cupation of tailor for many years, and later 
engaged in farming. His wife was also a 
native of Dauphin county, and they had 
seven children, four of whom are living: 
William; Lucinda, Mrs. Henry Shriver; 
Kate Anna, Mrs. George W. Miller; and 
Mary A., Mrs. Joseph Krautzer. Their de- 
ceased children are: Eliza, Daniel, and Jacob. 
Mr. Snyder died August 3, 1870, and his 
wife died suddenly, December 26, 1879, aged 
eighty-seven years. 

William attended the public schools for 
only a few winter terms. At twelve years of 
age he went to work on the canal with Jacob 
Frantz, and remained with him for seven 
years. He then bought a boat and began 
business for himself, running from Middle- 
town and Pottstown to Philadelphia, and 
making the round trip in a week's time. He 
worked under contract with Benjamin Frick, 
and was engaged in boating for him for 



eight years. In 1851 the canal was widened 
and larger boats came into use, and the fol- 
lowing year Mr. Snyder bought a large Penn- 
sylvania boat, and went into the lumber 
trade, shipping from Williatnsport and Lock 
Haven to Philadelphia and Baltimore, tak- 
ing two weeks for a round trip. He had a 
boating contract with the men at the Star 
mills for four years, and he had another con- 
tract with George Lentz, a lumberman, at 
Williamsport, for five years. Altogether he 
was engaged in boating on the canal for 
thirty-eight years. He then abandoned 
boating and engaged in farming. Mr. Sny- 
der was married, August 12, 1849, to Miss 
Sarah Pancake, daughter of Valentine and 
Catherine (Shreedley) Pancake. Their chil- 
dren are : Clara ; Alice, wife of Allison Bal- 
bough, deceased ; Elmer E., and Malon H., 
died in 1889, aged thirty-eight years. In his 
political views Mr. Snyder is a Republican. 
The parents of Mrs. Snyder were both na- 
tives of Dauphin county. Their children 
are: Anna, Sarah, Jacob, Mary, David, all 
living; and Andrew, John, Catherine and 
Elizabeth, all deceased. Elmer E., son of 
William, was born June 11, 1861, received 
his primary education in the public schools 
of East Hanover township, and took a course 
at Lebanon Valley College, Annville. In 
1882 he began teaching, and has since been 
engaged in that vocation. 



Shirk, Jacob S., general merchant, Grant- 
ville, Pa., was born in East Hanover town- 
ship, Lebanon county, Pa., June 30, 1844 ; 
son of Michael and Elizabeth (Swoke) Shirk. 
The father was born in the same township, 
and resided there until 1845, where he was 
engaged in mercantile pursuits. He then 
removed to Dauphin county, where he con- 
ducted the same business until his death in 
December, 1867. His wife was born in Beth- 
lehem township. Berks county, Pa., but was 
reared by her aunt in Lebanon county, her 
mother having died while she was a child. 
She removed with her husband to East Han- 
over township, and lived there until his 
death, and for the past sixteen years has 
been a resident of Harrisburg. Their chil- 
dren are : Emma M., died, aged five years ; 
Galen, died at the same age ; John H., died 
at the age of thirty-one years. He was a 
graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, 
Philadelphia ; practiced medicine at Ann- 
ville, Pa., for a year and a half, and at the 
time of his death was practicing at Phila- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



715 



delpbia. Their living children are: Cathe- 
rine G., wife of Henry C. Orth, musical in- 
strument dealer, at Harrisburg; Jacob S., 
and Mar\ T Elizabeth, wife of Harry Uhler, 
real estate dealer in Harrisburg. 

Jacob S. was brought by his parents to 
East Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
when he was but fifteen months old, where 
he acquired his education in the district 
schools. He took a course in the Commer- 
cial College of Bryant & Stratton, at Phila- 
delphia, and became a salesman in his 
father's store, in whicli capacity he was em- 
ployed until 1866, at which date he was ad- 
mitted to a partnership in the business. His 
father died in 1867, and the following year 
he took entire charge of the business, which 
he has conducted since that time. He was 
married, in East Hanover township, Feb- 
ruary 14, 1867, to Miss Emma R. Early, 
daughter of Amos and Mary Early. Their 
children are : Marie Ellen, died November 
18, 1889, aged nine years ; Edward M., 
Robert E., and Emma L. Mr. Shirk has 
served efficiently in the offices Of auditor, 
tax collector, and assessor. He was an ac- 
ceptable postmaster for thirty years, and in 
politics was a Republican. He and his wife 
are members of the United Brethren church. 



HALT FAX, TOWNSHIP. 



Shertzer, Benjamin F., postmaster and 
harness maker, Grantville, Pa., was born in 
the lower end of Fishing Creek Valley, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., September 18,184-1; son 
of Paul and Susan (Unger) Shertzer. He 
acquired his education in his native place, 
and when nineteen years of age removed to 
Linglestown, where he learned the trade of 
harness maker and where he pursued this 
occupation four years. In 1868 he removed 
to East Hanover township, where he has 
been engaged in business twenty-nine years. 
Under the first Cleveland administration he 
was appointed postmaster, and is now serv- 
ing his second term in the office. He was 
married, in West Hanover township, July 10, 
1873, to Emma Bouchter, daughter of John 
and Leah Bouchter, residents of Lebanon 
county. Two of their children died in in- 
fancy, and those living are: Bertha May. 
Mrs. Golen Boyer ; Kate E., Wesley B., and 
Mabel M. In politics he is a Democrat, and 
in his religious faith and fellowship he and 
the family are with the United Brethren 
church. 



Leebrick, George T., retired, Halifax, 
Dauphin county, Pa., was born in that town, 
September 23, 1844. and still resides in the 
house in whicli he was born, which was in- 
herited from his grandparents. 

The lineal descent of George T. Leebrick 
is as follows : Capt. Benjamin Parke, born in 
Westerly, R. I., 1735, who was killed at the 
battle of Bunker Hill, June 17, 1775. George 
T. is the son of John P. Leebrick and Han- 
nah Mary (Parke) Leebrick, grandson of 
Thomas Parke and Eunice (Chaplin) Parke, 
great-grandson of Capt. Benjamin Parkeand 
Hannah (Stanton) Parke, great-great-grand- 
son of John Parke and Elizabeth (Miller) 
Parke, great-great-great-grandson of Thomas 
Parke and Abigail (Dix) Parke, great-great- 
great-great-grandson of Richard and Sarali 
Fallier Parke, of London, England, who 
settled in Cambridge, Mass., in 1632. Capt. 
Benjamin Parke assisted materially in the 
struggle for American independence, being 
captain of a company which participated in 
the battle of Bunker Hill. He was also a 
member of the committee that drew up the 
celebrated resolutions protesting against the 
infringements of the rights of the colonies, 
the tax on tea in 1774. (See Denison's 
Westerly, page 210). The Captain, whileon 
a visit to his sister, Mrs. Pendleton, at Ston- 
ington, Conn., marched to the relief of Bos- 
ton during the Lexington alarm, in April, 
1775. (See adjutant general's report of Con- 
necticut in the Revolution, page 22). Ac- 
cording to the report, " the said Capt. Ben- 
jamin Parke marched at the head of a com- 
pany of minute men to the relief of the 
American army, near Boston, in June, 1775, 
and participated in the battle of Bunker 
Hill, June 17, 1775, in which battle he was 
mortally wounded." For further accounts 
see Narragansett Historical Register, vol. 1, 
page 217, Denison's Westerly, page 74, and 
Drake's Dictionary of American Biography, 
page 687. 

George T. Leehrick's great-great-graml- 
father, John Philip Lebreg (as the name was 
then spelled), was born in Manheim, Grer- 
many, in 1696, and dieil in Manheim Pa., 
at the age of eighty-two. He had a family 
of four children: Nicholas, born in Man- 
heim, Pa., in 1 748, married Catherine Franks. 
The other children were girls: one married 



716 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Daniel Bridgian, another Charles Wilstach, 
and the third a Mr. Newman. 

The children of Nicholas and Catherine 
(Franks) Lebreg, great-grandparents of 
George T. Leeb rick, were as follows: John, 
born in Manheim, Pa., May 27, 1770, died 
October 9, 1804, unmarried; Philip, married 
Mary Castle ; Daniel, date of birth and death 
unknown, married Elizabeth Peters; George, 
grandfather of George T., born February 7, 
1779, married by Rev. Mr. Ilgen, at Mimin- 
burg, Pa., March 17, 1801, to Mary Mohr, 
was a tanner and merchant, settled in Hali- 
fax in 1811, and spent the remainder of his 
life in this town; his death occurred March 
12, 1847. His children were nine in num- 
ber. 

His son, John P. Leebrick, father of George 
T., was born February 10, 1804, married 
Mary Parke, February 17, 1831, died Sep- 
tember 24, 1869, and his wife died May 3, 
1852. They had six children: Ellen, born 
June 24, 1832, in Halifax, died July 9, 1833; 
John Eberle, born in Halifax, December 31, 
1833, died July 16, 1862 ; Louisa Parke, born 
November 11, 1835, resides at the home- 
stead ; Anna Marv, born February 10, 1837, 
died July 28,1838; Henry Clay, born No- 
vember 12, 1839, died August 23, 1842; 
George Thomas, born September 23, 1841. 
John P. Leebrick, like his father, resided all 
his life in Halifax and was extensively en- 
gaged in mercantile pursuits and in railroad 
and canal contracts. He was a prominent 
and progressive man, a stockholder and di- 
rector in canals and railroads, and interested 
in other like industrial ventures. 

George Thomas Leebrick is the son of the 
late John Philip and Hannah Mary (Parke) 
Leebrick. He was born and has always 
had his home in Halifax. His early educa- 
tion was received in the public schools and 
under his mother's tuition. Before he was 
ten years old he attended an academy in 
Juniata county, Pa. Later he was at the 
Mt. Joy Academy, Lancaster county, Pa., 
and still later the Western Reserve College 
at Hudson, Ohio, since removed to Cleve- 
land, Ohio, and now called Adelbert Col- 
lege. 

His education finished, Mr. Leebrick taught 
school during one winter. In April, 1861, 
he enlisted as a private in company D, Fif- 
teenth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served three months; he was discharged 
at Carlisle, Pa., August 7, 1861 ; re-enlisted 
September 2, 1861, in company D, Forty- 



sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served in this regiment until December 
2, 1862, when he was again discharged by 
the Secretary of War, at Maryland Heights, 
Md. He took part in the battles of Cedar 
Mountain and Antietam. In 1863 Mr. Lee- 
brick commenced the study of law with A. 
H. Dill, of Lewisburg, Pa., and remained 
with him two years. He then returned to 
Halifax, where he has since spent most of 
his time. 

Mr. Leebrick was married, in Halifax, 
April 5, 1877, to Sarah R., daughter of Sam- 
uel and Susanna Noblit, early settlers of 
Halifax township. They had no children. 
Mr. Leebrick belongs to H. M. Slocum Post, 
No. 523, G. A. R.; is a Democrat, and his 
wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 

The fourth child of Nicholas Lebreg, great- 
grandfather of George T. Leebrick, was Will- 
iam Mohr, who died in 1872. 



Shope, Jacob W., physician and surgeon, 
Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa., was born in 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, August 22, 
1845. He is a son of John and Mary (Mason) 
Shope. John Shope was born in Lingles- 
town in 1815. From the date of his mar- 
riage he was a resident of Linglestown and 
was engaged in the butcher business. In 
1864 he removed to Dauphin, Pa., where he 
now resides. Mrs. John Shope, who was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., in 1816, died 
July 17, 1885, in the borough of Dauphin. 
They had nine children: an infant that 
died ; David, who died from the effects of a 
fall; Harriet, wife of P. D.Felty; Elizabeth, 
wife of A. T. Gerberich ; Dr. Jacob W., Will- 
iam, George, John, and Mary, wife of W. 
Manley, residing at Rockville, Dauphin 
county. 

John W. Shope spent his boyhood in his 
native town. After leaving the public 
schools, in which he was educated, he was 
for one year clerk in a dry goods store. He 
then learned the trade of shoemaking, at 
which he worked for some time. On August 
22, 1864, Mr. Shope enlisted in company C, 
Two Hundred and First regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, and served until the close 
of the war, being mustered out at Harris- 
burg. He then carried on the retail shoe 
business at Dauphin, Pa., for two years. This 
business he sold out in 1867, aud was for sev- 
eral years engaged in bridge building. Again 
he took up the shoe business at Dauphin and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



717 



carried it on until 1876. In this year Mr. 
Shope began the study of medicine. In the 
fall of 1878 he entered Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege, Philadelphia, Pa., and was graduated in 
March, 1880. Since that date he has been a 
continuous resident of Halifax and a suc- 
cessful practitioner in his profession. 

Dr. Shope was married in Halifax, Janu- 
ary 7, 1870, to Margaretta J., daughter of 
John and Elizabeth (Oswald) Shope. They 
have three children- Charles R., editor of 
the Halifax Gazette) Minnie 0., and Susan 
E. Dr. Shope is an active worker in the Re- 
publican party. He has been a member of 
the school board and its president. He be- 
longs to Susquehanna Lodge, No. 364, F. & 
A. M., of Millersburg. He and his family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Nace, William Benjamin, druggist, Hali- 
fax, Dauphin county, Pa., was born in Hali- 
fax township, April 19, 1857. He is a son of 
Henry and Elspy A. (Lebo) Nace. John 
Nace, his great-grandfather, removed with 
his family from Montgomery county, N. J. 
He came in company with a man named 
Wilson. They bought large tracts of land 
in Dauphin county, and settled in Halifax 
township, where John Nace died, at the age 
of sixty. He had been twice married, and 
reared seven children, and at his death he 
left a farm to each of his seven sons. 

William B. Nace received his early educa- 
tion in the common schools of Halifax, and 
afterwards attended the Lykens high school, 
where he finished, not having the means to 
secure a more liberal education. He went 
to Harrisburg, and obtained a position as 
clerk in the drug store of Howard S. Die- 
trich, in which he served three years, and 
was then for two years with A. M. Steever, 
of Harrisburg. 

After leaving the Lykens high school Mr. 
Nace taught school three consecutive terms 
in the same school in which he received his 
early education. In June, 1887, he left 
Harrisburg and opened his present place of 
business in Halifax, where he has built up 
an extensive trade. While learning the 
drug business his wages were only two dol- 
lars and a half per week, so that in begin- 
ning business for himself he had not one 
dollar of capital. 

Mr. Nace was married, in Halifax, July 5, 
1887, to Miss Alice A., daughter of George 



and Louisa Lantz, natives of Dauphin 
county. She was born in Halifax township, 
October 15, 1863. They had one child, 
Raymond E., born July 18, 1889. 

Mr. Nace is a Republican. He holds 
membership in Charter Lodge, No. 82, I. 0. 
0. F., and in Syrian Commandery, No. 133, 
Millersburg, Dauphin county. He and his 
wife are members of the United Brethren 
church in Halifax. 



Nace, John E., merchant, Halifax, Pa., 
was born in Halifax township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., April 1, 1835. He is a son of 
David and Barbara (Enders) Nace. He re- 
ceived his education in the common schools 
of his native place. At sixteen years of age 
he went to Dauphin, where he served an ap- 
prenticeship of three years at carpentr}' with 
his uncle, Isaac Nace. He then worked' at 
his trade in Dauphin for seven years, after 
which he was for seven years in business for 
himself, as a contractor. In 1865 Mr. Nace 
opened a general store in Fisherville, where 
he transacted business for about six years, 
after which he sold his business and was 
idle for one year. He then formed a part- 
nership with J. E. Rutter, and opened a 
butchering business at Lykens, Pa. At. the 
end of the first year he sold his interest in 
this concern to his partner and bought a 
share in a planing mill in the same town 
and was made a superintendent of the same. 
This enterprise proving unprofitable owing 
to the panic of 1871, in two years he lost the 
money he had invested in the mill. Dur- 
ing the next five years Mr. Nace was em- 
ployed as time clerk at the steel works at 
Steel ton. He then bought the general store 
of J. E. Lyter, at Halifax, where he has 
since continued in business with the most 
gratifying success. 

Mr. Nace was married in Halifax, Janu- 
ary 8, 1861, to Miss Lydia A., daughter of 
Joseph and Catherine (Londmilch) Fetter- 
hoff, born in Halifax township, December 
8, 1841. Of their three children, two died 
in infancy; the survivor, Oscar O, is a mer- 
chant at Harrisburg, Pa., and married 
Emily Smith. 

Mr. Nace's political views are strongly 
Republican. He has served Lykens bor- 
ough one term as councilman and one as 
burgess, and he was councilman at Steel ton 
for one term. He is a member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal church. 



718 



MO Git A PElCAL ErfCYCL 0PED1A 



Miller, Clayton C, M. D., Halifax, Pa., 
was born in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., August 4, 1859. He is a son of 
Samuel B., and Mary (Fitting) Miller. 

Peter Miller (1), great-grandfather of Dr. 
Miller, was born in Jackson township, in 
1780, and died there in 1847. He was a farm er. 
He married a Miss Weaver; their children 
were three sons and three daughters. The 
Christian names of the daughters are not 
now accessible ; they were all married, one 
to Valentine Straw, another to Christian 
Snyder, and another to John L. Keiter. The 
sons were Peter, Daniel, and Joseph. Peter 
Miller (2), grandfather of Dr. Miller, was 
born in Jackson township, December 14, 
1805. He grew to manhood in his native 
place. He was reared on the farm and be- 
came a farmer. He married Susan Snyder. 
Their eldest children, Annie and Daniel, 
died while they were small children. The 
only one remaining is Samuel, father of Dr. 
Miller. 

Samuel B. Miller was born in Jackson 
township, February 4, 1838. He received a 
common school education, was brought up a 
farmer, and made farming his occupation 
for life. His wife, Mary (Fitting) Miller, sur- 
vives him and resides with her son, Dr. Mil- 
ler. Their children are: Clayton C; Susan 
Alice, wife of James A. Gipple, of Lancas- 
ter, Pa.; Penro P., farmer in Jackson town- 
ship; and Florinda J., wife of C. E. Sweigard, 
Jacksonville, Pa. Mr. Miller took an active 
part in local affairs, was a school director for 
many years, and was secretary and treas- 
urer of the board. He was a life-long Dem- 
ocrat. He died October 2, 1870, and is 
buried in Fairview cemetery, Jackson town- 
ship. 

Clayton C. Miller received his early edu- 
cation in the common schools of his native 
place. In 1877 he entered Berrysburg Sem- 
inary, Dauphin county, and in 1882 com- 
menced the study of medicine with Dr. 
Wetzel, at Jacksonville, Dauphin countj'. 
He subsequently entered the medical col- 
lege at Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he was 
graduated in 1885. Soon after he began the 
practice of medicine at Lykens, Dauphin 
county, and continued there until 1886, 
when he removed toMatamoras, in the same 
county. There he remained until April 1, 
1895. Desiring a more central location, he 
removed to Halifax, where he has built up 
a large and lucrative practice. Dr. Miller is 
among the foremost in his profession, and is 



held in high estimation throughout that 
section of the country. 

Dr. Miller was married, in Jacksonville, 
Pa., September 10, 1882, to Ann Jane Helt, 
born in Dauphin county, July 4, 1862 ; 
daughter of John F. and Margaret (Enders) 
Helt, natives of Dauphin county. They 
have five children : Ada B., born December 
22, 1883; Florence A., June 18, 1886; Beu- 
lah M., October 11, 1887 ; John Calvin, April 
8, 1893 ; and Harry O, October 13, 1894. 



Ryan, Charles W., cashier of Halifax 
Bank, was born in Powell's Valley, Halifax 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., February 17, 
1841 ; son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Gay- 
man) Ryan, natives of Middle Paxton town- 
ship, Dauphin county. James Ryan, his 
great-grandfather, was a native of Ireland. 
When a boy he came with a party of Scotch - 
Irishmen to America, settled near Derry 
Church, Dauphin county, Pa., and married 
a Miss Boyd. His remains are interred near 
Derry Church. 

John Ryan, grandfather of Charles W., 
was born in Dauphin county. He married 
a Miss Gondy. Their children are : John, 
James, Andrew, father of C. W. Ryan, Sally, 
and Mary. John and James settled in Erie 
county, Pa., when that region was a wilder- 
ness. The land they owned is now a part of 
the city of Erie. James was a noted hunter 
and fighter of the Indians ; he and John 
took part in the war of 1812. 

Charles W. Ryan received only a limited 
education ; he attended school but three 
months of each year, and that only until he 
was eighteen years of age, and he was 
obliged to walk three miles to reach the 
school house. His parents died when he 
was in his tenth year, but the eldest member 
of the family, Andrew, a worthy young man, 
twenty-seven years old, was for two years 
father to the orphan children and kept the 
family together. At the end of two years 
Andrew died, and this sad event dissolved 
the tie which held the children together. Mr. 
Ryan then made his home with his brother- 
in-law until he was seventeen 3'ears old, and 
then, with his brother Isaac, worked the home 
farm for three years. During the next year 
he worked as a farm hand for David B. 
Mather at $9 per month. At the end of the 
year, having become of age, Charles and his 
brother Isaac bought their sisters' share in 
the estate and divided it between themselves. 
He was engaged in farming until 1882, and 






^ £ fca&s %{>&? 



j(lUun*J & farteh, fo & 






V^^^^V/^~Zoz^ 



^S~/ 0~4t^i . sti?. \£? ^Cest4/J-&L.i^ 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



721 



in addition to this he had for ten years pre- 
vious to this time dealt in coal and lime in 
Halifax. In 1.S71 Mr. Ryan became a stock- 
holder in the Halifax Bank, and in March, 
1883, he succeeded William Shammo as 
cashier of that hank, which position he still 
holds. He also owns stock in the First Na- 
tional Bank at Millersburg, Pa. Mr. Ryan 
was married, in Halifax township, December 
22, 1864, to Mary L., daughter of Joseph and 
Mary (Hepler) Collier, born in Halifax town- 
ship, January 11, 1848. Their children are: 
Harras J., professor of electric engineering at 
Cornell University, N. Y., he married Cathe- 
rine P. Fortenbaugh ; Laura M., at home ; 
Luther W., merchant at Halifax, married 
Mary Gilbert. 



Lomis, Albert Scott (formerly Loomis), 
merchant, Halifax, Pa., was born in Halifax 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., April 25, 
I8.'!(i, and is a son of Anthony W. and Maria 
(Brubaker) Lomis. Anthony W. Lomis, 
father of Albert S. Lomis, was born in Al- 
stead, N. H., in 1811, and died in Halifax 
township, Dauphin county, Pa.; in August, 
1804. He came to Dauphin county when a 
young man. Having acquired a good com- 
mon school education in his native place, 
he left home to seek his fortune. He was 
blessed with a robust constitution. Having 
been reared a farmer's son, he was not afraid 
of hard work. He taught school for some 
years after coming to Dauphin county, and 
being frugal and economical, he saved enough 
from his earnings to start in business. He 
rented a saw mill at the foot of Berry's moun- 
tain, which lie operated, but through a 
serious misfortune lost all he possessed. Pie 
afterwards engaged in agricultural pursuits, 
later in mercantile pursuits. Mr. Lomis sub- 
sequently owned and edited a newspaper 
called the Halifax Herald, being assisted in 
the office work by his son, Albert S., who 
distributed many of the papers on each day 
of publication. Mr. A. W. Lomis was re- 
garded as a man of strict integrity and fair 
dealing. He was capable in business mat- 
ters, and possessed large views and great 
public spirit. His death was lamented by 
all; in him the town lost one of its most 
valuable citizens. 

Mr. A. YV. Lomis hail been twice married. 
His first wife, Maria Brubaker, had four 
children: Albert Scott, Daniel B., William 
A., and Barbara, widow of B. B. Brubaker, 
who lives in Halifax. The second wife of 
47 



Mr. Lomis was Mary Murray, sister of the 
late Judge Murray, of Harrisburg. Their 
children were: Frank M., Charles C., George 
0., Walter J., Margaret 0., and Mary. Mr. 
Lomis was a life-long Democrat. 

Albert Scott Lomis was educated in the 
common schools of Halifax township. He 
worked as a mule driver on the old canal 
and other pursuits from the time he was 
thirteen years old until he was eighteen; 
from eighteen to twenty years of age he 
owned and operated a small iron foundry in 
Halifax, except during the winter of his 
nineteenth year, when, at the earnest solici- 
tation of the school board, he taught school 
in Halifax township. At the age of twenty- 
one years he had accumulated one thousand 
dollars, which he invested in his enterprise. 
While building and operating the foundry 
times became hard and money was scarce, 
consequently he disposed of his plant at a 
loss. In 1804 Mr. Lomis went to work for 
his father in the saw mill and was thus em- 
ployed until the death of his father, in Au- 
gust, 1804. He assumed charge of his fath- 
er's business and was appointed executor of 
the estate. In 1805 he greatly enlarged the 
business. In 1808 he disposed of the saw 
mill business at a great sacrifice and for the 
next few years did practically nothing. 

In 1870 Mr. Lomis formed a partnership 
with his brother-in-law, B. B. Brubaker, un- 
der the firm name of Brubaker & Lomis. 
and engaged in the lime and coal business. 
This venture proved successful and in 1888 
they added a general store to this business. 
In February, 1892, Mr. Brubaker died and 
Mr. Lomis purchased his deceased partner's 
interest in the business, which he has since 
conducted alone. 

Mr. Lomis was married, in June, 1884, to 
an acquaintance of his youth, Eliza, widow 
of Morris Smith. They have two children : 
Anthony Wayne and William I'enn. Mr. 
Lomis is a staunch Democrat. He has 
served his borough as burgess. He is a 
member of Lodge No. 82, I. O. 0. F.,of Hal- 
ifax. Mr. Lomis is a man of tine physique, 
standing over six feet in his stockings, and 
of athletic appearance. He is genial, well- 
informed and a pleasant talker. He is hon- 
ored and esteemed by his neighbors. 



BRESSLER, John S., truck farmer, Halifax. 
Dauphin county. Pa., was born in Halifax 
township, August 2'. 1 . 1S40. He is a son of 
Philip and Mary (Etter) Bressler. Philip 



722 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Bressler was born near Harrisburg, Pa., in 
1800, and was educated in bis native place. 
He was a farmer. After his marriage be 
came to Halifax township and bought a farm 
of his father-in-law, on which he resided 
until his death in 1869. He was an old line 
Whig and afterwards a Democrat. He was 
well known and highly esteemed. The 
children of Mr. and Mrs. Bressler are : Eliza- 
beth, wife of Philip Shaffer, Lebanon county, 
Pa.; George W., deceased, married Ellen 
Ryan ; Sarah, wife of Alfred Burtnett, Mun- 
cie, Pa.; Sarah, married first to Rev. Mr. 
Bressler ; her second husband was Charles 
Egolf, deceased ; Mary E., died aged eigh- 
teen ; Maggie, died aged two ; John S.; Ann 
Jane, married first to Christian Urich, after- 
wards to George Rees, and Louisa, wife of 
Ira Miller, Millersburg, Pa. 

John S. Bressler was educated in the com- 
mon schools of Halifax township, and was 
reared a farmer. In boyhood he was fond of 
rural sports, and spent his leisure in hunt- 
ing and fishing. His father died in 1871. 
Then the home farm was sold and he and 
his mother removed to Halifax and bought 
the property he now occupies, a large brick 
dwelling fronting the river. .His mother 
died there in 1885. Mr. Bressler was mar- 
ried, in Millersburg, January 28, 1886, to 
Alice M., daughter of Simon and Caroline 
(Sauser) Shoop. She was born in Millers- 
burg, Pa., September 25, 1854. They have 
had no children. During the summer Mr. 
Bressler gives his whole attention to truck 
farming, which, under his careful and skill- 
ful methods, is a very profitable business. 

The mother of Mrs. Bressler was first mar- 
ried to Jacob Gruber. Mr. Shoop ' was her 
second husband. Their children were : 
Alice M., Mrs. Bressler ; Frank A., farmer 
in Halifax township ; Clinton T., telegraph 
operator, Lykens Valley, and Annie, wife of 
Howard Frederick, Millersburg, Pa. 



Lyter, Isaac, bank teller and county 
commissioner, was born in the borough of 
Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa., November 11, 
1844. He is a son of Christian and Cathe- 
rine (Bowman) Lyter. His great-grand- 
father, Christian Lyter, is supposed to have 
been born in Germany. When a child he 
came with his parents to America. They 
settled in Lancaster county, Pa., and re- 
moved thence to Lower Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa. Christian Lyter lived 



to the age of one hundred and four years, 
and passed away suddenly, one morning, 
while sitting at the breakfast table. Peter 
Lyter, grandfather of Isaac, was born in 
Lower Paxton township, and was a farmer. 
He married a Miss Shirk. Their children 
were: Joseph, Christian, Henry, Abram, 
Daniel, John, Moses, Louisa, married a Mr. 
Utz, and Betsy, married Henry Bowman. 
Mr. Lyter died in Halifax, in February, 
1870. 

Christian Lj'ter, father of Isaac Lyter, was 
born in Lower Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, where he was educated and grew to 
manhood. He came with his father to 
Halifax in 1831 and learned the trade of 
blacksmith, which he followed in addition 
to the business of auctioneering. He trav- 
eled much over this part of the State 
as an auctioneer, and was one of the 
most skillful and successful men in the 
business. His death, which occurred July 
9, 1874, was much lamented. He had been 
justice of the peace for twenty years, and 
had filled other local offices. His children 
are : Ellen V., wife of A. J. Shammo, Hali- 
fax ; Elspy, wife of G. W. Bottomstone, Wy- 
oming, la.; Isaac; Sarah, deceased, wife of 
H. C. Brubaker; William H, grocer, Har- 
risburg, Pa.; John F., clerk, Harrisburg, and 
Lawrence W., conductor on the Northern 
Central railway, resides in Halifax. Mrs. 
Lyter, mother of Isaac, died January 10, 
1896, aged seventy-seven. She had long 
been a great sufferer from a complication of 
diseases. 

Isaac Lyter attended the schools of his na- 
tive place a part of each year until he was 
seventeen. During his boyhood he assisted 
his father both on his farm and in his 
blacksmith shop. In this way he gained 
considerable knowledge of the trade. Isaac 
enlisted at Harrisburg, September 14, 1864, 
in company I, Forty-sixth regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, and served until the 
close of the war, and was with Sherman on 
his march to the sea. He was discharged, at 
Harrisburg, Pa., June 8, 1865, and at once 
returned home. 

In the spring of 1866 Mr. Lyter entered 
into partnership with his father in the black- 
smith business, and continued with him two 
years. He then bought and conducted the 
business alone until 1888 ; he then sold it to 
assume the position of teller in the bank 
at Halifax, which he has efficiently filled 
since that date. He is also a stockholder. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



723 



Mr. Lyter was married, January 6, 1870, 
to Mary, daughter of Joseph and Esther 
Brubaker. They have four children : Harry 
\V., born December 4, 1871 ; Pearl E., June 
20, 1874 ; May, January 20, 1877, and Cathe- 
rine, October 10, 1881. Mr. Lyter has been 
honored by his fellow-citizens with about all 
the offices in their gift, from the lower 
places of trust up to the office of burgess. ' 
He was first elected commissioner of Dau- 
phin county in 18S0, and is now serving 
his second term in that responsible position. 

Lodge, William, president of the Halifax 
Bank, and ex-county treasurer, was born in 
Halifax borough, Dauphin county, Pa., June 
1, 1827. He is a son of John and Elizabeth 
(Fetterhoff) Lodge. Matthias Lodge, his 
grandfather, was born in England, and 
came to America with his wife and family. 
The parents died soon after reaching Penn- 
sylvania, leaving two sons and two daugh- 
ters — John, father of William Lodge, being 
one of the sons. 

John Lodge was born in Halifax township, 
in 1800. He received a limited education, 
his parents having died when he was a year 
or two old. He was reared by Captain 
Smith, a prominent citizen of Halifax. He 
grew to manhood in the township, and early 
learned shoemaking,but worked at the trade 
only occasionally. His principal occupation 
was fence building, at which he worked in 
different parts of the country. He was also 
extensively engaged in butchering. Mr. 
Lodge removed to Halifax in 1858, and was 
employed by his son, William, to assist about 
the warehouse and drive a team. He sud- 
denly expired on the street, when on his 
way to the depot to meet his son. His 
death occurred in 1880, and one year later 
his wife followed him to the grave. She 
was born in 1801. Their children were: 
Isaac, died in infancy; John, a farmer, died 
in 1808 ; Esby, died young; William; Dan- 
iel, died young; Susan, wife of John Robi- 
son, Halifax; George W., painter and paper 
hanger, Halifax, and Sarah, wife of A. M. 
Pike, Halifax. 

William Lodge had only slender oppor- 
tunities for securing an education. Twelve 
months in one of the schools of the township 
was the extent of his schooling. The school 
house was situated at the distance of two 
miles from his home. From the age of eight 
years to that of twelve he worked out among 
the neighboring farmers. When he was 



thirteen his father hired him to Samuel 
Landia, a merchant, at Halifax, on the con- 
ditions that he was to remain two years, and 
was to receive $3 per month and his board 
and clothing. At the end of one year he 
had shown such aptitude and ability as a 
clerk in the store that his wages were raised 
to §4 per month, besides his board and cloth- 
ing. He continued in the store of Mr. Lan- 
dia from 1841 to 184G, afterwards obtaining 
a better position as clerk in a store at Liver- 
pool, Pa., in which he remained two years, 
after which he returned to his former em- 
ployer, Mr. Landis, and was with him until 
1851, except during the winter of 1849, when 
he taught school. He received §15 per 
month during 1850. In 1851 he bought a 
one-half interest in the stock of Mr. Landis, 
with whom he continued in partnership nine 
years. 

Close confinement to the store and con- 
tinuous application to business affected his 
health injuriously, and on this account he 
sold his interest in the store, and sought ac- 
tive outdoor employment. He bought a 
canal boat, went into the lime business, and 
gradually worked into traffic in coal, lumber, 
grain, etc. About 18G0 he formed a part- 
nership with Joseph Landis, a son of his 
former employer and partner, under the firm 
name of Landis & Lodge. This firm added 
to the business a general store, purchasing 
property on Market street, fitting up a store 
room, and stocking it with general merchan- 
dise. This partnership continued success- 
fully for eight or nine years and was then 
dissolved, Mr. Landis taking the store, and 
Mr. Lodge the lime, coal and lumber busi- 
ness. Mr. Lodge carried on business alone 
until 1878. In that year he was elected 
treasurer of Dauphin county, and finding 
himself unable to attend to his business and 
perform the duties of his office, he took his 
brother-in-law, Mr. Pike, as his partner, and 
in 18S9 or 1890 sold his own interest to Mr. 
Pike, since which date he has lived retired 
from active business. 

Mr. Lodge married, at Millerstown. Perry 
county, Pa., December 25, 1849, Martha Ellen 
Kinter. a native of that town. She died in 
1850, without issue. Mr. Lodge was again 
married in 1862. His second wife was Mari- 
etta Real, a widow. They have no children. 
He has served as president of the Halifax 
Bank since its incorporation. He is the 
founder and president of the Home Eire 
Insurance Company. 



724 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Nace, Henry, farmer, was born in Hali- 
fax township, Dauphin county, May 20, 1883. 
He is a son of David and Barbara (Enders) 
Nace. David Nace, a son of John Nace, was 
born in Berks county, in 1808. He came to 
Halifax township, when young, with his 
father and family. He was married, in 
Armstrong Valley, to Barbara Enders, a na- 
tive of that place. The Nace family lived 
for some time near Halifax ; then David 
Nace bought the farm on which his son 
Henry now lives, and here the father died 
in September, 1865. His children are : 
Henry ; John E., merchant at Halifax ; 
William W., died young ; David B.; Rebecca 
Jane, deceased, wife of Frederick Lutman ; 
Susan and Sarah, died young; Samuel, 
Aaron, and Isaac. 

Henry Nace enjoyed but few educational 
advantages, because his services were re- 
quisite to assist his father in farm work. He 
remained at home until his marriage, in 
Halifax township, March 16, 1854, to Miss 
Elspy Ann, daughter of Jacob and Cathe- 
rine Lebo, natives of Dauphin county. She 
was born in Halifax township, December 18, 
1832. Mr. Nace and his wife took up their 
residence on the old homestead, where he 
has lived ever since his birth. They have 
ten children : William B., Susan Ellen, 
John Lincoln, Mary C, Jacob G, the twin 
of David Sherman, who died in his fifth 
year; Joshua F., Lydia Ann, James Irving, 
and Henry Elmer. Mr. Nace bought the 
homestead from his father's heirs, and has 
since built a new barn and house, and made 
other extensive improvements. 

Mr. Nace is a strong Republican. He has 
been judge of election one year, inspector of 
election and jury commissioner one term. 
He was formerly a member of the United 
Brethren church, but withdrew from that 
body, and has not since affiliated with any 
other. 



Wagner, George W., farmer, was born 
near Harrisburg, Pa., August 9, 1862. He 
is a son of William and Tiny Ellen (Lehr) 
Wagner. He was a babe when he was 
brought by his parents to Halifax township, 
where he received part of his education. At 
the age of six he went to live with his ma- 
ternal grandfather, Jacob Lehr, and remained 
with him five years. He then left his grand- 
father and was hired by William Lebo, 
farmer, of Halifax township, for two dollars 
and a half per month and board. He was 



with Mr. Lebo for three years, then one year 
with another man, then with Henry Bow- 
man three years ; his wages during the last 
year were four dollars and a half per month. 
He next hired to John Urich for three years 
at the rate of one hundred dollars for eight 
months. Mr. Wagner was married, in Hali- 
fax borough, December 31, 1883, to Miss 
' Henrietta, daughter of Cornelius and Sarah 
(Urich) Harper. She was born in Miners- 
ville, Schuylkill county, Fa., February 25, 
1857. After his marriage, Mr. Wagner cul- 
tivated his father-in-law's farm for two years; 
he then removed to Halifax and was engaged 
on the railroad. He afterwards returned to 
Mr. Harper's farm, worked it for one year, 
and then purchased Mr. Harper's stock and 
cultivated the farm two years longer on his 
own account. In the spring of 1895 he came 
to Halifax township and bought his present 
place, which contains sixty-two acres. Mr. 
Wagner is a Republican, but has never 
sought any political office. He is a member 
of the United Brethren church. He is one 
of the well-to-do farmers of the township, and 
his success demonstrates his enterprise and 
business ability. His children are : Charles 
C, Sadie Ellen, and Harris C. 

Mr. and Mrs. Harper, the parents of Mrs. 
Wagner, had ten children : Annie B., de- 
ceased ; Samuel, farmer in Montana;- Ade- 
line J., wife of John P. Jenkins, Bedford 
county, Pa.; Valentine U, of Halifax town- 
ship ; Cornelius A., miner, at Shamokin, Pa.; 
Thomas W., miner, at Lykens, Pa.; Clara, 
wife of F. Miller, Harrisburg, Pa.; Henrietta, 
Mrs. Wagner ; Ida, resides with Mr. Wagner, 
and Nora J., died young. Mrs. Wagner's 
father died March 27, 1885 ; her mother died 
April 7, 1894. 

Jacob Lehr, Mr. Wagner's maternal grand- 
father, with whom he lived for five years, 
was a native of Halifax township, and grew 
to manhood here. He was a farmer and 
huckster, and was also engaged in butcher- 
ing. He died in his native township in 1880. 

Lebo, James M., farmer, was born in Up- 
per Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
October 26, 1844. He is a son of James and 
Annie Jane (Novinger) Lebo. James Lebo 
was born in Upper Paxton township, in 
1816, and died on the farm on which he was 
born, December 11, 1886. He was a man of 
limited education, but an industrious and 
enterprising farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Lebo had 
eleven children: Sarah, wife of Nathaniel 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



725 



Martz, of Northumberland county, Pa.; Sam- 
uel, merchant at Uniontown, Pa.; Jonathan, 
died in Upper Paxton township, in 1896; 
James M.; Christy Ann, deceased, wife of 
David Kehler; George W., farmer, Upper 
Paxton township; Mary Jane, wife of Ed- 
ward Schrelller, Upper Paxton township; 
Catherine, wife of Jolin A. Sliott, Millers- 
burg, Pa.; Jacob H., fanning the old home- 
stead, Upper Paxton township; Emma S., 
died young, and Alice, wife of Henry J. 
Zearing, Harrisburg, Pa. 

James M. Leho attended school in his na- 
tive place until he was ten years old. He 
then went to live with his uncle, Jacob 
Lebo, in Halifax township, and remained 
with him, attending school and working on 
the farm, until he was twenty-two years of 
age. For the next three years, while he 
made his home with his uncle, he worked 
out among the neighboring farmers, getting 
$15.00 per month for the first year, and for 
the remainder of the time hiring out at 
§17.00 per month, with the privilege of 
keeping cattle on the place. He bought and 
sold stock, one-half of the profits going to his 
employer, which made him a very profitable 
business. 

Mr. Lebo was married, in Matamoras, Pa., 
September 30, 1809, to Miss Mary, daughter 
of William and Eliza (Brought) Taj lor, 
born in Halifax township, September 5, 1848. 
They were married between three and four 
o'clock in the morning, to enable them to 
take an early train for Harrisburg, where 
they enjoyed the State fair then in progress. 
They then visited the bride's relatives in 
Warren county, Iowa, and on their return 
home went to housekeeping. They began 
with one chair, and a stove and table bor- 
rowed from Mr. Lebo's father-in-law, Mr. 
Taylor. 

Mr. Lebo's first investment was $2,100, 
paid as part of the price of a farm of 216 
acres, which lie sold before it was fully paid 
for. After selling the place, he farmed for 
two years on rented farms. At the end of 
one year he bought the house he lived in 
from his uncle, Philip Lebo, and at the end 
of two years, sold the house and bought 
forty-two acres of land, with a house and 
barn, in Wayne township. After owning 
this place for five years, he traded it for a 
house and two lots in Williamstown, re- 
maining on the farm one year after the ex- 
change, and renting the town property. At 



this time Mrs. Lebo's mother died, ami Mr. 
Lebo rented and worked the Taylor farm 
for four years. In the meantime he dis- 
posed of his Williamstown property, and 
with the proceeds of the sale, and some other 
money which he had accumulated, he pur- 
chased his present place, consisting of 107 
acres of land, with house and barn. He has 
since made extensive additions to botli these 
buildings, and has otherwise improved the 
place. He also owns the old Taylor home- 
stead, which comprises 134 acres of farm 
land and ten acres of timber land. lie re- 
cently purchased another farm in Wayne 
township of 126 acres, which he at present 
rents. 

Thechildren of Mr. and Mrs. JamesM. Lebo 
are: Laura Irene, died when two days old ; 
Lawrence T., at home; Elmer Irving, died at 
seven years of age ; William J., died aged 
three ; Zora P., died aged three mouths; the 
last three died of croup, within five weeks; 
Nora Edna, at home; Calvin E., at home, 
and Curtis Chester, died at seventeen days 
of age. 

Mr. William Taylor, father of Mrs. Lebo, 
was born in Halifax township, where he was 
educated and grew to manhood. He was of 
the sturdy Scotch-Irish stock. His father 
was Matthew Taylor, who died in Halifax 
township. Mr. Taylor once owned 600 acres 
of land in Iowa, also the Baskin tract of 153 
acres, with grist and saw mill ; he was, be- 
sides, a stockholder in the Halifax Bank. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor are: 
Rebecca, wife of Jacob Sultzbauch, Millers- 
burg; Matthew A., farmer, Warren county. 
Iowa; George W.. farmer, Warren county. 
Iowa; Mrs. Lebo; Hiram W., Kansas: Win- 
field S., farmer, Warren county, Iowa; Will- 
iam I., farmer, Halifax township, and 
Emma J., widow of Elias Hull'. Mr. Taylor 
died on the homestead, in Halifax township, 
January 12, 1891. He was very widely 
known. He filled several township offices, 
being a staunch" Republican. Mrs. Taylor 
died October 9, 1880. 

Mr. and Mrs. Lebo and the older mem- 
bers of their family are consistent members 
of the United Brethren church, of which 
church Mr. Lebo is a trustee, and his son 
Lawrence T., secretary of Sabbath-school. 
Mr. Lebo has served one term as tax col- 
lector of Halifax township; also one term in 
same office fur Wayne township, collecting 
Slate, county, and school taxes. 



726 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Chubb, Samuel H., farmer and carpenter, 
was born in Halifax township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 22, 1835. He is a sou 
of Henry and Nancy (Miller) Chubb. Henry 
Chubb, his grandfather, was the first of the 
family to come to America. He was born 
in Germany and emigrated while still a 
j'oung man. He took part in the Revolu- 
tionary war. Henry Chubb (2), father of 
Samuel H., was born in Halifax township, 
November 3, 1795, and died September 12, 
1879. He learned weaving from his father, 
and followed that trade in connection with 
farming in Halifax township, where he died, 
in his eighty-fourth year. He was married, 
in Halifax township, April 20, 1822, to Nancy 
Miller, of that township. Their children 
were eight boys and three girls : John, born 
February 27, 1824, served through the war 
of the Rebellion, died at Middletown, Pa.; 
Susanna, born August 18, 1825, married 
John Peters, who was a prospector in Cali- 
fornia; she died at Jacksonville, Pa.; Henry, 
born January 13, 1827, went to Iowa and 
Kansas when a young man, returned and 
served throughout the war of the Rebellion 
in a cavalry regiment; Jacob, born Novem- 
ber 23, 1828, farmer, now residing in Jeffer- 
son county, Kan.; Philip, born October 5, 
1830, enlisted first for three months in com- 
pany D, Fifteenth regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers; re-enlisted as a veteran in com- 
pany D, Forty-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, January 4, 1864, and was dis- 
charged July 16, 1865 ; he was taken pris- 
oner at the battle of Winchester, held at 
Belle Island for six months and then re- 
leased ; he died in Utah in 1876 ; Jeremiah, 
born October 14, 1832, a farmer in Kansas, 
was a carpenter by trade and served during 
the war in the Home Guards ; Samuel H.; 
Catherine, born January 7, 1838, deceased, 
wife of Eli Huff; Abigail, born July 4, 1840, 
wife of Josiah Jury, Halifax township ; 
Hiram, born March 14, 1843, resident of 
Halifax borough, and David B., born May 
6, 1845, farmer, in Halifax township. It 
happened at a time before the birth of their 
son Samuel H., that the family dwelling was 
burned while the mother was absent and all 
the children were at home. 

Samuel H. Chubb was educated in the 
common schools of his native place. The 
old school house was furnished in the most 
primitive style, with slab benches and a ten- 
plate stove. He went to school a few months 
of each year until he was sixteen. At sev- 



enteen years of age he went to Jersey Shore, 
Pa., to learn carpentry ; he remained there 
for one year and then came home. Previous 
to this he worked with a gang in the con- 
struction of the Northern Central railway, 
receiving at first ninety cents per day, and 
finally becoming foreman of the section. He 
met with a Mr. Reed, with whom he went to 
the neighborhood of Linglestown and worked 
two years at carpentering, receiving seventy- 
five cents per day. At the end of two years 
he became a journeyman carpenter, and 
assisted on some of the best buildings in that 
part of the country. He has worked at his 
trade since that time. 

Mr. Chubb enlisted in company H, One 
Hundred and Ninety-second regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, February 15, 1865, for 
one year, and was discharged at Harper's 
Ferry, August 21, 1865. His first military 
duty was guarding prisoners at Camp Chase-, 
near Columbus, Ohio. He remained there 
until April, 1865, and was then ordered to 
Harper's Ferry, Va., and Shepherdstown, 
Va., where it was the principal duty of his 
detachment to order rebels to cut off their 
army buttons, and in case of refusal to cut 
them off themselves. After discharge Mr. 
Chubb returned home, and continued his 
work of carpentry and farming. 

Mr. Chubb was married, in Harrisburg, 
June 16, 1859, to Miss Sarah J. Lyter, born 
on Haldeman's Island, January 27, 1841; 
daughter of Henry and Susan (Miller) Lyter, 
and the eldest of ten children. They lived 
on rented farms for three years from the 
time of their marriage, and then Mr. Samuel 
Chubb and his brother Jacob bought twenty- 
one acres of land. Samuel H. Chubb after- 
wards bought out his brother's interest in the 
land and added to it eleven acres more. 

Mr. Chubb is a Republican in politics, but 
in minor matters is liberal in his opinions. 
He holds membership in General Slocum 
Post, G. A. R., at Halifax, and in Lodge No. 
82, I. 0. 0. F., at Halifax ; he was also a 
member of the Encampment, now discon- 
tinued. He is a member of the Evangelical 
church. His children are : Seppler Henry, 
born September 20, 1859, farmer in Kansas; 
Florence Rebecca, born November 25, 1860, 
wife of Fred. Byrod, Oberlin, Pa.; EuimaO, 
born May 10,1860, died October 11, 1870; 
Hiram Curtin, born July 1, 1862, died Octo- 
ber 11, 1870 ; William Benton, born May 10, 
1864, died January 3, 1878 ; Philip Elmer, 
born October 5, 1869, farmer in Kansas ; Jo- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



717 



seph Edward, born July 5, 1S73, at home ; 
John Harvey, born November 23, 1S74, at 
home, and Ira Roscoe, born December 4, 
1880, died February 7, 1882. 

Henry Lyter, the father of Mrs. Chubb, 
died June ifJ, 1S96, and his remains are in- 
terred in Long's cemetery, Halifax township. 
He had attained the advanced age of eighty 
years, his entire life having been spent in 
agricultural pursuits in Halifax and Reed 
townships. He was a man of sterling quali- 
ties, honored and respected by all his friends 
and neighbors. His faithful partner through 
life still survives him at the advanced age of 
upwards of seventy-five years. 

Mattis, Abraham, farmer and dairyman, 
was born in Montgomery county, Pa., Janu- 
ary 6, 1838 ; son of Aaron and Catherine 
(Sch wen k) Mattis. Aaron Mattis was born in 
Montgomery county in 1810; he was educated, 
grew up and married in his native township. 
In l.So'.i he located at Uniontown (now Pillow), 
Mifflin township, Dauphin county, Pa., and 
embarked in mercantile pursuits, in which 
business he continued the remainder of his 
life ; he died in 1872. His wife still survives 
and resides in Millersburg, Pa. Their chil- 
dren are : Abraham, Aaron, stock dealer at 
Millersburg, Pa.; Mary J., died aged thirty 
years; Sarah B., resides in Philadelphia, 
wife of Samuel Baker; John J., Pottsville, 
Pa.; Solomon S., Halifax township ; Charles 
F., and Edward, Millersburg, Pa. 

Abraham Mattis was one year old when 
his parents removed to Mifflin township, 
where he received his education. His school 
advantages were limited to his earlier youth, 
as he did not attend school after his four- 
teenth year, and even before that time he 
had done considerable work in his father's 
store. At the age of fourteen he was put in 
charge of his father's huckster team and 
drove to the coal regions of Schuylkill 
county, forty miles distant, leaving home at 
two or three o'clock in the morning and 
making the trip in all kinds of weather. In 
the ten years during which he had charge of 
this part of his father's business, he missed 
only r five weeks out of the five hundred and 
twenty. His father paid him §1,000 for his 
services prior to reaching his majority and 
§300 for the last year of his time. 

In 1859 Mr. Mattis opened a general store 
in Elizabethville, Pa., which he conducted 
until 1865. During 18(34-65 he also dealt 
in live stock, occupying thirty-five days in 



bringing a drove from Erie, Pa., to this 
county. In the fall of 1865 Mr. Mattis sold 
his store and removed to a farm he had pur- 
chased and which he occupied for a short 
time. On January 1, 1S66, he went to Phila- 
delphia and was engaged as salesman by the 
Reigle & Fister Dry Goods Company. Dur- 
ing 1866 he sold §70,000 worth of dry goods, 
receiving §2,000 salary for the year. He was 
offered §2,500 for the next year, but the busi- 
ness being injurious to his health he was 
obliged to decline the offer. He returned to 
the farm and was again engaged in farming 
and stock dealing. 

In 1869 Mr. Mattis, with three other gen- 
tlemen, opened the coal mines of Tower City, 
Pa. He also bought one hundred acres of 
timber land, constructed a saw mill, and ran 
a lumber business in connection with the 
mines, which proved to be the largest in the 
world. He sold three hundred thousand 
feet of lumber to the Lebanon Car Company 
with which to build cars for the Pacific rail- 
road in California. In the fall of 1S73 they 
sold the mines to the Reading Company, 
and also the timber land and mill, for which 
they had cut one hundred and fifty thousand 
feet of lumber. Mr. Mattis once more re- 
turned to his farm. In 1872 he was elected 
a director of the Miners' Deposit Bank of 
Lykens, and held that position for three 
years. In the spring of 1886 he disposed of 
his farm and bought his present place of 
residence, known as the garden farm of Hal- 
ifax township. On this farm he has con- 
ducted a dairy business. 

Before 1S66 Mr. Mattis was a Republican, 
but he lost faith in the party when the in- 
convertible bond bill, the banking act, and 
reconstruction measures were passed, lie 
then parted company with his party, and 
has since been an independent voter. He 
was appointed postmaster of Elizabethville 
under Abraham Lincoln, for whom he cast 
his first vote for President. Mr. Mattis 
never sought office but once. He was once 
a candidate for sheriff, but was defeated. Mr. 
Mattis claimed "that money influenced the 
result, and he could not use money to buy 
votes, although he had powerful moneyed 
friends willing to aid him in securing the 
election. He chose rather to miss the orhVe 
than to resort to corrupt measures in order 
to secure it." Mr. Mattis desired to enlist in 
the army in 1861, but as he was already in 
Government employ, he could not be ac- 
cepted. Pie visited the Antietam battlefield. 



728 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Mr. Mattis was married, in Upper Paxton 
township, December 19, 1858, to Miss Louisa 
Mehr, born in that township, January 29, 
1841 ; daughter of George and Catherine 
(Wilmot) Mehr, natives of France. Mrs. 
Mattis was born and brought up in the 
Catholic church, but after her marriage she 
affiliated with the Lutheran church. Their 
children are: Catherine, wife of Frederick 
Shillinger, died in Philadelphia, leaving her 
husband and two children to mourn her 
loss; Annie Louisa, wife of Rev. J. H. Mc- 
Gann, of Lewisburg, Pa., has three children 
living and two dead ; Laura S., wife of David 
W. Lurker, Washington township, Dauphin 
county, has three boys; Ella Hannah, wife 
of Martin Rapp, a civil engineer of the Santa 
Fe Railroad Company, resides at Vancouver, 
Washington ; Jennie, wife of William C. 
Mills, Millersburg, Pa,, has no children; 
Lottie May, died, aged nine months ; George, 
attending Millersburg high school, seven- 
teen years of age, and Louisa, at home. The 
family are members of the Lutheran church. 
Mr. Mattis formerly belonged to the I. 0. 0. 
F., at Berrysburg, and of the S. P. K. of Ly- 
kens; he is a member of the Farmers' Al- 
liance. 



Brubaker, John R., farmer, was born April 
21, 1846, on the farm in Halifax township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., which he now owns, 
and which was handed down from his 
grandfather, Daniel Brubaker. He is a son 
of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Rutter) Bru- 
baker. Daniel Brubaker was born in France, 
and came to America before his marriage 
and located at Beaver Creek, Lancaster 
county, Pa. He came with considerable 
money, which he invested in a large tract of 
land, extending from Berry's mountain to 
Fort Halifax (now the town of Halifax), and 
later added much more. He also owned the 
Montgomery Ferry. He was a great lover 
of fast horses, of which he owned many. 
He built a race track near Halifax which 
attracted the attention of horsemen, and 
was the scene of manj' notable races. He 
was considered the greatest sporting man of 
that day. He was an excellent judge of 
horses, and was seldom mistaken in his esti- 
mate of their speed ; consequently he was a 
successful better, and realized much money 
from his skill and nerve in backing his 
favorites. He brought one horse from the 
West which was the source of much amuse- 
ment as well as profit to him. This horse 



appeared tame and slow before going on the 
track, but once in the race, he was spirited 
enough, and easily distanced all competitors 
in the race. Mr. Brubaker's brothers were 
among his riders, and two of them lost their 
lives by accidents on the track ; one by the 
fall of a horse, and the other by being 
thrown against a tree, both resulting in in- 
stant death by broken skull. Mr. Brubaker 
was a man of character. He was of iron 
will and dauntless courage. He died on the 
homestead, and a marble slab marks his 
grave on the old farm. Parts of his vast 
landed estate are now probably owned by 
female descendants. His wife was taken 
captive by the Indians, and held a long 
time, but was finally released. The births 
of three of their children are recorded : 
Jonathan, father of John R.; Joseph, and 
Benjamin. This worthy couple probably 
had other children, of whose birth there is 
no record. The release of Mrs. Brubaker by 
the Indians was due to her parents. At 
that time they had to go to mill by canoe, 
down the river to the mill near Harrisburg. 
The county was so infested by Indians that 
no road was safe. Every farm between 
Millersburg and Halifax then had its own 
private burial ground. 

Jonathan Brubaker, father of John R., 
was born on the homestead in Halifax 
township, December 25, 1801. He was edu- 
cated in the subscription schools, and be- 
came an expert in penmanship. He was 
reared a farmer's boy and became a farmer. 
Later he engaged largely in the culture and 
sale of tobacco. Mr. Brubaker was married, 
in Halifax township, to Elizabeth Rutter, 
born in Halifax township, May 10, 1811 ; 
daughter of Andrew Rutter. Their only 
child is John R. The father died in 1848. 
He was prominent in township affairs, and 
was highly respected. The mother is still 
living in Harrisburg, and is now the widow 
of Benjamin Straw. 

John R. Brubaker received his early edu- 
cation in his native place. In his eighteenth 
year he entered the Central Evangelical 
College, New Berlin, Union county, Pa., and 
finished his course in his nineteenth year. 
He then returned home, and for the next 
three years was a fireman on the Northern 
Central railway. He then took possession of 
the homestead farm, which was left him by 
his father, and whicb, since that date, 1867, 
he has been engaged in cultivating. Mr. 
Brubaker was married, in Halifax township, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



729 



March 1, 1867, to Miss Margaret E., daugh- 
ter of John and Elizabeth (Rutter) Poffen- 

berger. She was born in Middle I'axton 
township, Dauphin county, November 8, 
1845. They had two children: James G., 
born November 11, 1868, died March 12, 
1895, a farmer, and Harry R., born April 
12, 1870, a school teacher of Halifax town- 
ship. He attended the public schools of 
this township, and later graduated from the 
Bloomsburg Normal School, in Columbia 
county, Pa. Mrs. Brubaker died in Janu- 
ary, ISO 1. Mr. Brubaker is a Democrat. 
He has been assessor for three years. He is 
a member of the Methodist Episcopal church 
of Millersburg. 



Mellin, Dustin Fletcher, was born in 
Nashua, then a town in Massachusetts, now 
in New Hampshire, April 15, 1821. He is 
a son of Ezra and Sarah (Fletcher) Mellin. 
The pioneer settler of the Mellin family came 
to America from England ten 3' ears after the 
Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. He 
was a clergyman, and located at Dorchester, 
Mass. 

John Mellin, grandfather of D. F. Mellin, 
was born at Nashua, and lived to the age of 
ninety-six years. He died at Washington, 
N. II., where he had been a farmer, and a 
deacon in the church, both for sixty years. 
He married a Miss White. Their children 
were: Annie, Daniel, Ira, Sumner, Francis, 
Ezra, and two daughters, Susan, twin of 
Ezra, and Poll} 7 , next older than Ezra. By 
a previous marriage Mr. John Mellin had 
one son who lived to be one hundred and 
three years old. 

Ezra Mellin was born in Nashua, June 11, 
1707; he followed various occupations. He 
was a farmer ; he was a director of the Indian 
Head Bank, at Nashua, and was one of the 
original five men who built the Nashua and 
Lowell railroad. He was also a large dealer 
in wool. Ezra Mellin died at Nashua, aged 
fifty-nine years. His wife, Sarah, was born 
in 1801. They had three children : Sarah, 
married Franklin Goddard, and lives near 
Fi tcli burg, Mass.; Emeline, married Eben 
Stone, who has been lieutenant governor 
of Massachusetts for two terms, and member 
of Congress for two years, residence, Boston, 
Mass., and Dustin Fletcher. 

Dustin Fletcher Mellin was educated in the 
common schools of his native town. In 1S37, 
being in his sixteenth year, he began to 
prepare himself at North Chelmsford, Mass., 



for the work of mechanical engineering. He 
became proficient, and has made this his 
profession ; for thirty-five years most of his 
work has been in Massachusetts. For four- 
teen years he owned the American Machine 
Works. In 1862 Mr. Mellin started at New 
York City what was then known as the 
American Gun Company, of the stock of 
which he was one-fifth owner, and for which 
he was manager at a salary of §5,000 per 
year. He made fifty thousand guns for 
the United States Government. During the 
same time he originated the Bridgeport 
Chemical Works at Bridgeport, Conn., and 
looked after the business of that concern also. 
After closing operations in both these places 
Mr. Mellin started the Connecticut Screw 
Company, at Hartford. Conn., which he man- 
aged for one year. After this he came to 
Dauphin county, Pa., and bought his pres- 
ent place of residence, then containing two 
hundred and forty-four acres, now one hun- 
dred and sixty-eight. He has extensively 
improved this place. 

Mr. Mellin was first married, in Manches- 
ter, N. H., in 1842, to Miss Nancy Judkins, 
born in New Hampshire, and one of the five 
children of Joseph Judkins, a native of Deer- 
field, N. H. Their children are: Annie 
Elizabeth, died young ; Ella Maria, deceased, 
married a Mr. Sullivan ; Frank, civil engi- 
neer for the New York Central railroad, and 
George, died young. Mr. Mellin was married 
the*second time, in New York City, in 1S68, 
to Miss Rebecca Rose Hain, born in Pine 
Grove, Schuylkill county, Pa., November 
29, 1830; daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth 
(Keifer) Hain, both natives of Schuylkill 
county. Samuel Hain, father of Mrs. Mel- 
lin, was a shoemaker. He was married in 
Pine Grove, and later removed to Pottsville, 
Pa., and thence to Lykens, about 1842. He 
died at the latter place at the age of fifty- 
two. His wife died at the home of her son- 
in-law, D. F. Mellin, aged about sixty-seven. 
Their children are: Rebecca Rose, Mrs. Mel- 
lin; John, died young: George, now justice 
of the peace at Williamstown, Pa., and Mary, 
widow of Robert G. Steward, residing in 
Lykens Valley. Mr. Mellin was formerly a 
Whig, and afterwards became a Republican. 



Baker, Henry J., was born in Jackson 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., December 
12, 1835. He is a son of Jacob and Polly 
(Chubb) Baker. The Bakers were originally 
from Germany. Jacob Baker, grandfather 



730 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of Henry J., was a native of Dauphin county ; 
was married here and reared a famity. He 
died on the home farm on which Henry J. 
Baker now resides. His wife was a Miss 
Shultz. Daniel Chubb, maternal grandfather 
of Mr. Baker, was a soldier throughout the 
war of 1812. 

Jacob Baker, a farmer by occupation, and 
father of Henry J. Baker, was born in Hali- 
fax township, Dauphin county, Ph., in 1805. 
He was married, in Halifax township, to 
Polly Chubb. Their children were seven 
girls and four boys: Susan, wife of Peter 
Minnock ; Sarah, wife of Josiah Dempsey ; 
Catherine, died young; Henry J.; Isaac, 
farmer in Halifax township ; Margaret, 
widow of Peter Heck rick ; Mary, wife George 
Jury; Jacob, farmer in Middle Paxton town- 
ship ; Mattie, wife of William Bowerman ; 
Daniel, resides in Harrisburg, and Barbara 
Ellen, wife of John Kines. 

Henry Baker was about six years old when 
his parents brought him to Halifax town- 
ship, where he received his education in the 
common schools. He grew up a farmer boy, 
and remained at home, attending school 
some months of each year, until lie was 
twenty years old. Before he was married 
his father died, and the care of bringing up 
iiis brothers and sisters fell upon Henry. 

Mr. Baker was married, in Halifax town- 
ship, November 19, 1860, to Miss Sarah 
Stoutsabarger, born in York county, Pa., in 
1840. Mr. and Mrs. Baker took up their 
residence upon the home farm, where they 
have ever since lived. Their children are : 
Mary C, died young ; Emma Jane, deceased, 
wife of George Messer ; Annie E, wife of 
Joseph Straw ; William J., farmer in Hali- 
fax township ; Martha, Henry E., George D., 
and Sarah A., at home ; Rosie B., died young ; 
and John H, Carrie M., Bertha B., and Min- 
nie G., all at home. 

Mr. Baker is a staunch Republican. He 
was school director for seven consecutive 
terms, and has served many other times on 
the board. He was reared in the faith of the 
United Brethren church, but does not at 
present belong to any sect. 



Cumblek, J. H., station agent at Halifax, 
Pa., was born in Newport, Perry county, Pa., 
April 6, 1850 ; son of William and Elizabeth 
(Bowman) Cumbler, natives of Pennsylvania. 
His grandfather, Jacob Kumler (as the 
name was then spelled), was a farmer in 
Perry county, where he died. William 



Cumbler, father of J. H. Cumbler, was a 
farmer and merchant in Perry county, Pa. 
He was married three times. His first wife 
was a Miss Oren ; their children were : Will- 
iam, Jacob, Henry, and George; all deceased 
except George, who is president of the Middle- 
town and Highspire Street Railroad Com- 
pany, at Steelton, Pa. The second wife of 
Mr. Cumbler was Elizabeth Bowman, by 
whom he had three children : Henry, a 
farmer in Perry county, Pa.; Elizabeth, wife 
of a railroad contractor at Seattle, Wash., 
and J. H. The mother died in 1855. The 
third Mrs. Cumbler waslsabelle Finton ; she 
had no children. Mr. Cumbler was a Re- 
publican and a member of the Church of 
God. 

J. H. Cumbler lived with his parents, first 
in his native place, Newport, afterwards in 
New Buffalo, where they removed in 1855, 
then in Montgomery's Ferry, and then again 
in Newport; he attended school in all these 
places. At the age of seventeen his education 
was far enough advanced for him to become 
a teacher, and he began to exercise his gifts 
in that line by teaching two terms. For the 
next five years he was clerk in the hardware 
store of J. W. Franklin, at Newport. He 
was also bookkeeper at Steelton for his 
brother, and then was in mercantile business 
for himself for two years. He then removed 
to Halifax, where he has since resided, and 
been continuously employed in the Northern 
Central railway office, first as clerk, and 
since May 1, 1889, as agent; also, since Sep- 
tember, 1884, he has been agent for the Adams 
Express Company. Mr. Cumbler has been 
a director in the Halifax Bank since 1890, 
and is a stockholder and director of the Hal- 
ifax Shoe and Manufacturing Company. He 
is a charter member of Syrian Commandery, 
No. 133, A. & I. O. K. M., Millersburg ; also 
charter member Millersburg Conclave, No. 
102, I. 0. H.; and a member of P. O. S. of A., 
Washington Camp, No. 576, of Halifax, Pa. 
Mr. Cumbler is also a member of the Inter- 
national Association of Ticket Agents, and 
in 1890 accompanied his fellow-members to 
Florida, in 1892 to Canada, and in 1894 to 
California. 

Mr. Cumbler is a Republican; he was 
elected chief burgess of the town in 1885, and 
is a member of the school board, in which 
he is serving his second term. Mr. Cumbler 
was married, in Halifax, December 25, 1877, 
to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Judge Landis. 
Three of their four children died in infancy. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



731 



Only their daughter, Margaret, survives. Mr. 
Cumhler is a member of the Methodist 
church. 



Sawyer, Thomas J., was born near Pal- 
myra, Lebanon countv, Pa., February 2, 
1828. He is a son of John and Mary (Bell) 
Sawyer. John Sawyer was born near Pal- 
myra, October 25, 1779. He was a man of 
much ability and distinction. He served 
one term in the State Legislature, and was a 
soldier all through the war of 1812. He was 
married, in Lebanon county, in 1810. His 
wife was the daughter of Samuel and Ann 
Bell. They had eleven children; of these, 
John died in Illinois, aged eighty-three 
years. The remaining children are all de- 
ceased except Thomas J., and the youngest 
of the family, Sarah Jane, now Mrs. William 
Young, of Philadelphia. The father died in 
Lebanon county in 1830. 

Thomas J. Sawyer attended the common 
schools of his native place for a short time. 
When he was eight or nine years old his 
mother and other members of the family re- 
moved to Centerville, Montgomery county, 
Ohio, ten miles south of Dayton, where he 
went to school for some } r ears, and where, in 
his sixteenth year, he taught school one or 
two terms. About 1848 the family returned 
to Pennsylvania and settled at what was 
known as Oak Dale Forge, in Dauphin 
county, where he taught school two terms. 
He was a pupil for one term at the Lewis- 
burg Academy. 

About 1850 Mr. Sawyer bought two large 
farms in Powell's Valley, which were for- 
merly owned by his father. He sold these 
farms and for three years was interested in 
business with his brother at Decatur, Macon 
county, 111. He returned to Dauphin county 
in 1806 or 1807 and bought a farm in Reed 
and Halifax townships, which he cultivated 
until he located in Halifax borough in 1872, 
where he has since resided. Mr. Sawyer 
recently purchased the old Reed homestead 
farm, in Reed township, which was handed 
down to this - family by the grandfather, 
James Reed. This farm consists of two hun- 
dred acres, and is one of the best cultivated 
and most productive farms in the township. 

Mr. Sawyer was married, in Reed town- 
ship, June' 23, 1803, to Miss Elizabeth M., 
daughter of William and Clara (Hatfield) 
Reed, born and reared in Reed township. 
This township was named for Mrs. Sawyer's 
father, William Reed ; and his father, James 



Reed, was about its first settlers. Mr. and 
Mrs. Sawyer's children are: Henry, Charles, 
and Martha, all deceased. Mr. Sawyer is a 
Democrat, but is liberal in his views. He 
has been justice of the peace for a number of 
years in Halifax township, and in Powell's 
Valley for five years. Mr. Sawyer has done 
much as a surveyor since coming to Halifax. 
He was baptized in the Presbyterian church. 

Judge John Ray is connected with the 
Sawyer family through the marriage of his 
brother James H. with Ann Sawyer, eldest 
sister of Thomas J. Sawyer. Judge Ray was 
for some time commander of the G. A. R. 

Mrs. Sawyer was born in Reed township, 
February 22, 1835. Her father died Novem- 
ber 6, 1864, and her mother died in Halifax, 
May 10, 1880. Of a family of seven chil- 
dren, three now survive: William, residing 
in Philadelphia ; Margaret, widow of the late 
Dr. John O. Whitman, of Halifax, and Mrs. 
Sawyer. 



Fortenbaugh, Abraham, merchant, at 
Halifax, was born in Newberrytown, York 
county, Pa., August 5, 1838. He is a son of 
Samuel and Mary E. (Miller) Fortenbaugh. 
Andrew, the grandfather, was a native of 
Germany, and came to America with his 
brother Peter. At Philadelphia the}' sepa- 
rated, the latter settling at the foot of Peter's 
mountain, where he worked at wagon mak- 
ing and blacksmithing, which occupation he 
followed all his life. He had a family of 
eleven sons, and was twice married. After 
the death of his first wife he went to Ken- 
tucky, where he married the reputed wife of 
Daniel Boone. Andrew settled in Newberry- 
town, York county, and engaged in farming, 
on a fine place of two hundred acres. He 
had a family of thirteen children. He died 
between 1815 and 1820. The father was 
born in Newberrytown, York county, in 
1813. He received li is education in the 
public schools of his native place. He was 
engaged in butchering nearly all his life. 
He was one of the first settlers of Goldsboro, 
York county. He died in Yocumtown, in 
1865, and his wife in 1878. They had these 
children, viz.: Annie, deceased; Abraham; 
A. M., Samuel, Mary, Ellen, and five other 
children, all deceased. The father was a 
Republican, and took an active part in polit- 
ical affairs. He served as justice of the 
peace for more than thirty-five years. 

Abraham received a limited education in 
the public schools, only attending them 



732 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



until twelve years of age, when he began 
assisting in his father's business. In his 
eighteenth year he formed a partnership 
with his father in a general store in Yocum- 
town, Newberry township, and continued 
there for nine years. In 1864 he moved 
to Halifax and opened up his present place 
of business, in which he has been very suc- 
cessful. He was married, in Halifax, Janu- 
ary 30, 1862, to Miss Mary Elizabeth Byrod, 
a native of Elizabethtown, Lancaster county, 
and daughter of John and Mary Byrod. 
Their children are : Seward B., deceased ; 
Mary E., wife of T. Marthes, attorney-at-law, 
Springfield, 111.; Catharine, wife of Prof. 
Harris J. Ryan, of Cornell University, N. Y.; 
Samuel B., professor of engineering, Madi- 
son University, Wisconsin. He is a mem- 
ber of the Susquehanna Lodge, No. 364, and 
was formerly a member of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows. In politics he is a 
Republican, and represented his district in 
the State Legislature in 1874-75-76. He has 
served as school director, councilman, and 
burgess of Halifax He leans toward the 
Episcopal church. 



Cratzer, Frank B., merchant, Halifax, 
Pa., was born in Pillow, Dauphin county, 
Pa., July 2, 1859. He is a son of John and 
Mary (Bowman) Cratzer. The father's fam- 
ily consisted of the following children : An- 
drew Curtin, Atlantic City ; Emma; George, 
Harrisburg ; Frank B.; Mary, wife of H. W. 
Bottom sted ; Harvey; Harry; Martha, wife 
of Mr. Spahr, Harrisburg, and Edward. He 
is a strong Republican and has held several 
offices. Frank B. received his early educa- 
tion in the Berrysburg Seminary. He 
moved from there to Halifax with his par- 
ents, in 1877, and began clerking in the 
general store of G. W. Etter, with whom he 
remained four years. In 1881 he went to 
Enterline and engaged in mercantile pur- 
suits for himself. He continued there for 
twelve years and in 1893 came to Halifax, 
built a commodious store, above which are 
his living apartments. He was married, 
February 24, 1881, in Halifax, to Miss An- 
nie E. Bickel, who was born November 13, 
1860, and is a daughter of John H. and 
Catherine (Bower) Bickel, both natives of 
Germany. Their children are : Carrie B., 
born October, 1881 ; Bertha Edna, born De- 
cember 28, 1883, and Annie O, born April 
20, 1887. In politics Mr. Cratzer is a Repub- 
lican. 



Ditty, Joshua, was born in Liverpool, 
Perry county, Pa., December 10, 1831. He 
is a son of Simon and Mary (Brant) Ditty. 
The grandfather, Henry Ditty, came with 
his parents from Lancaster county, and set- 
tled with his parents in Dauphin. He was 
married to Miss Catharine Miller, and lived 
to a ripe old age. The father, Simon Ditty, 
was a native of Washington township, Dau- 
phin county. In early life he moved to 
Liverpool, Perry county, and engaged in the 
manufacture of woolen goods, until 1854, 
when he moved to Halifax township. Three 
years later he moved to Clark's Ferry, Reed 
township, and served as lock tender and 
collector. He was accidentally killed by 
the cars in 1867, and his wife died in 
1889, in Duncannon,Pa. Their children are: 
Sarah Ann, Levi, Joshua, Mary, Rachel, John, 
William, Catharine, deceased, and Rebecca. 
Joshua received his education in the public 
schools of his native place and at Montgom- 
ery's Ferry. When nineteen years old he 
began to learn the trade of milling at Bas- 
kin's mill, Halifax township. After serving 
an apprenticeship of three years he followed 
his trade a short time, but owing to an in- 
jury was compelled to relinquish that busi- 
ness. He then worked on a farm for a 
time and next became a boatman on the 
canal, and continued thus for fourteen years. 
He then came to Halifax and clerked for his 
brother-in-law, George Etter. After pur- 
chasing and residing on a farm for two 
years, he returned to his former position. 
He enlisted in company H, One Hundred 
and Ninety-second regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, and went first to Camp Chase, 
Ohio, thence to Harper's Ferry and up the 
Shenandoah Valley. In 1883 Mr. Etter be- 
came steward at Lebanon Valley College, 
Annville, Pa., which position he retained 
for four years, when sickness compelled him 
to resign. He was married, March 13, 1860, 
to Miss Mary Lebo, who was born in Halifax 
township, Dauphin county, March 10, 1837, 
and is a daughter of Jacob and Catharine 
(Kramer) Lebo. In politics Mr. Ditty is a 
Republican, and has served as burgess two 
terms, and is now serving his second term 
as councilman. He is a member of the 
United Brethren church and president of 
the board of trustees. 



Gilbert, Isaac, farmer and carpenter, 
was born on the old homestead, in Halifax 
township, April 29, 1849. He is a son of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



733 



Jacob and Susan (Fetterhoff) Gilbert, natives 
of Lebanon and Halifax townships, respect- 
ively. The grandfather, Jacob Gilbert, was 
a native of Lebanon county, and came to 
Halifax in 1819. Jacob's father and two 
uncles were the first of the family to come 
to America, and they separated atPittsburgh. 
Jacob died at the age of eighty-three, leav- 
ing these children: Samuel, Sarah, Catha- 
rine, John, George, and Jacob. The father 
was born in Lebanon county, January 24, 
1808, and died in Halifax township, in 1888. 
He had a very fair education and came to 
Dauphin county in 1819 with his parents. 
For some years he was editor and proprietor 
of the Halifax Herald. His family consisted 
of the following children: George; John, 
deceased; Mary; Elizabeth; Sarah, deceased; 
Catharine, deceased ; Jacob, deceased ; Sam- 
uel, and Isaac. 

Isaac received his education in the public 
schools of his native place. In his youth he 
worked very hard, and remained with his 
father until his marriage, after which he 
farmed the old homestead eleven years. He 
then farmed for a period of ten years another 
farm of his father's. In 1889 he purchased 
a farm of one hundred and twenty-three 
acres in Halifax township, which he worked 
two years, and then began carpentering. 
He also owns another farm of seventy-three 
acres. He was married, February 27, 1870, 
to Miss Phoebe Frontmeyer, born in North- 
umberland county, March 9, 1852, and a 
daughter of George and Margaret (Heekerd) 
Frontmeyer. Their children are : John L., 
Mary C, Samuel J. and Mary Fetterhoff. 
Mr. "Gilbert was brought up in the United 
Brethren church. 



Koi'PENHeffer, Cornelius, merchant, 
Halifax, Pa., was born August 18, 184G, in 
Washington township. He is a son of Dan- 
iel and Fanny (Bordner) Koppenheffer. 
Daniel W., the father, was born in Lyken's 
Valley in 1814, and died in the same place 
in 1S73. His family consisted of the follow- 
ing children: Phoebe, Uriah, Elizabeth, Re- 
becca. James Monroe, Cornelius, Solomon, 
Benjamin Franklin, Mary, deceased, Dan- 
iel, and Catharine. He was a staunch Re- 
publican and served in various positions of 
honor and trust. 

Cornelius received his education in the 
public schools of liis native place. J I is 
early life was spent engaged in farm work 
and later he began to learn the trade of 



moulding in Berrysburg. After serving an 
apprenticeship of three years he began busi- 
ness for himself. Later he went to Juniata 
count} 7 , and afterwards to Pittsburgh, where 
he worked in the foundry for five years. 
After working in Harrisburg and Berrys- 
burg for a time he came to Halifax and 
purchased the foundry of John Ropp. He 
was married, in Lykens Valley, in 18GG, to 
Miss Anna Marwert. Their children are : 
Lottie, wife of Samuel Fisher, Harrisburg ; 
Ernest Foster, Andrew Curtin, Ivy Johanna, 
Lawrence, Sarah Jane, Mary Jane, Fanny, 
Byron, and Cornelius. In politics Mr. Kop- 
penheffer is a Republican and has served in 
town council. He is a member of the United 
Brethren church. 



Lyter, Joseph E., merchant, Halifax, 
was born in Halifax township, June 6, 1852. 
He is a son of Henry and Susan (Miller) 
Lyter, who reside in Halifax. The father, 
Henry Lyter, was born near Harrisburg. 
He came to Halifax township with his par- 
ents when a boy, and received his educa- 
tion in the public schools of this place. He 
is now eighty years old, and his wife seventy- 
three. Their children are : Sarah, John B., 
James W., Hiram, Joseph E., Mary It., Al- 
fred, Agnes V., Emma L., and one who died 
in infancy. 

Joseph E. received his education in the 
public schools of his native place. He then 
assisted his father on the farm for a time, 
and at the age of nineteen began teaching 
school, which occupation he continued seven 
consecutive terms. He then learned the 
carpenter trade, which he followed until 
August, 1881. He then spent some years 
in Iowa, and in January, 1888, went to Car- 
lisle, where he worked in a grocer}' store 
one year. After teaching school two terms 
in Halifax, he became general manager of 
the Halifax Shoe Manufacturing Company, 
which position he still retains. In February, 
1893, he opened his present place of husi- 
ness. The firm is styled J. E. Lyter & Co., 
Luther Ryan being the partner. He was 
married. February 22, 1877, to Miss Lydia 
A., daughter of John and Maria (Clemson) 
Bonker, by whom he has one child. Rosa C. 



Sh IiEfer, Mil ii \ki..soii of George Shaefer, 
was born December 1. 1803, at Halifax. 
Dauphin county. Pa. For some years he 
resided in Harrisburg, and when quite a 

young man be married Susan Cloud, of Lan- 



734 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



caster county, and made his home in that 
county a few years. Their children were 
Adaline, who married Rev. C. A. Wyeth ; 
Henry J.; John M., a civil engineer, who died 
at Selena, Ala., August 11, 1871; Mary L., 
who married Theodore D." Irish ; Harriet 
Matilda, who married Joseph Davidson ; 
Lucetta, who died June 9, 1837 ; Anne Eliza, 
who married John Thompson ; George T., 
who died November 4, 1867, at Ashland, 
and Benjamin Ingersoll. In 1831-32 the 
Lykens Valley Coal Company was organized 
and commenced operations at what was then 
known as "Bear Gap" (now Wiconisco). The 
company built a large log frame house, and 
Michael Shaefer moved into it for the pur- 
pose of boarding the workmen and entertain- 
ing the members of the company. At that 
time the upper end (now Lykens, Wiconisco 
and Williamstown) was one vast wilderness, 
with a few log huts scattered around. He 
resided in this place up to the date of his 
death, November 30, 1849, taking an active 
part in the development of the coal region. 
He was one of the contractors in the build- 
ing of the Lykens Valley railroad, also in 
the building of the aqueduct and other im- 
provements at the mouth of the Wiconisco 
canal feeder. After the first railroad was 
built from the Gap to Millersburg, he had 
the contract for the delivery of the coal, float- 
ing it across the river to Mt. Patrick on the 
Pennsyl vania canal. His wife, Susan Shaefer, 
who was a most estimable Christian woman, 
died in Harrisburg, Pa., on February 17, 
1876. The remains of both rest in the ceme- 
tery at Harrisburg, Pa. 



JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 



Enders, Philip C, paternal great-grand- 
father of G. W. D. Enders, was born July 
22, 1740, in Nassau, Germany. He was 
married, in 1764, to Miss Anna Appalonia, 
daughter of Conrad Degen, of the same 
country, and a few months later he and his 
wife came to America, landing at Philadel- 
phia. After remaining here a while they 
located near Manheim, Lancaster county, 
and settled in 1788, in what is now Jackson 
township, Dauphin county, Pa. The land 
had to be cleared, as the country was yet a 
wilderness, and he followed farming, at one 
time owning 1,300 acres of land. He organ- 
ized and taught the first school in that sec- 



tion, and donated land for the first school 
house at the place where Enders postoffice 
is at present located. Mr. Enders was one 
of the founders of St. Peter's Reformed and 
Lutheran church, now generally known as 
Fetterhoff's church, in which he took an ac- 
tive part, serving as leader of the singing 
until his death in 1810. Although in his 
youth a member of the Lutheran church, 
yet he was not buried in the graveyard of 
the church he helped to build, but was buried, 
as he desired, by the side of his wife, who 
died in 1796 and was buried near the spot 
where the old cabin stood. 

In 1886, their descendants, wishing to 
perpetuate their memory and beautify their 
resting place, erected a white granite monu- 
ment, ten feet high and fully inscribed, over 
their graves. The descendants of the En- 
ders family who took the foremost part in 
having this memorial erected were G. W. 
D. Enders, as president, and Dr. Levi J. En- 
ders, of Williamstown, Pa., as secretary of 
the enterprise. The descendants are scat- 
tered over many States and Territories of the 
Union. Jeremiah B. Enders, a great-grand- 
son of Philip C, emigrated to Australia and 
has become quite wealthy. 

John Conrad Enders, the paternal grand- 
father of G. W. D. Enders, and youngest son 
of Philip C, was born in 1788, and died in 
1874. He was married to Miss Elizabeth 
Witman, daughter of Bartholomew Witman, 
who was a native of Germany. Mr. Wit- 
man lived near the Black Forest, and 
coming to America engaged in farming 
until his death. Mr. Enders was a farmer 
and lumber manufacturer, and fought in the 
war of 1812. He held various township 
offices, and opened the first public road lead- 
ing from Halifax via Fisherville to the place 
now known as Elizabethville. As a stage 
road it was known as the old Harrisburg 
via Gratz to Pottsville road. Mrs. Enders 
died before her husband, and both are buried 
in the graveyard of Fetterhoff's church, 
of which they were active members. They 
had a family of eleven children, among 
whom was Philip, the father of G. W. D. 
Enders. 

John Frederic Zimmerman, the maternal 
great-grandfather of G. W. D. Enders, was 
born in Wolluria, Germany, and came to 
America in 1764, landing at Philadelphia. 
He settled in Armstrong Valley, southeast 
of Halifax, at a place later known as Urick's 
Mill, now as Yeager's Mill, where he and his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



735 



wife died and are buried nearby. Their 
graves are marked on rough stones on which 
place large oak trees have now grown up. 
Mr. Zimmerman and family had in the early 
days great trials with roving bands of In- 
dians, who burned three times their cabin 
and took or destroyed his possessions. To 
escape the Indians the family took refuge in 
a cave near by on the banks of the Arm- 
strong creek. 

Christian Zimmerman, maternal grand- 
father of G. W. D. Enders, was married to 
Miss Margaret Anna, daughter of John 
Joseph Miller, generally known as Jost Mil- 
ler, who came to America from Badenberg, 
Germany, and who was also the grandfather 
of Joseph Miller, a sketch of whom appears 
elsewhere in this volume. Mr. Zimmerman 
was a farmer by occupation, and both lie 
and his wife are buried in the graveyard of 
Fetterhoff's church, of which they were 
active members. Mr. Zimmerman's father- 
in-law, John Joseph Miller, was born in 
1742, in Badenberg, German)', and was bap- 
tized and confirmed in, and became a mem- 
ber of the Reformed church of this country. 
He married Miss Elizabeth Schissler, in 
1774. Landing at Philadelphia he first set- 
tled in Lancaster county and followed farm- 
ing. Later he became one of the pioneers 
of Dauphin county, settling in what is now 
Jackson township. He owned large tracts 
of land, held many responsible offices, and 
was oneof the foundersof Fetterhoff's church, 
taking an active part in its affairs. He died 
in 1824, and is buried in the Fetterhoff 
graveyard, in that part which is marked 
with red stone. 



Enders, George W. D., postmaster and 
merchant, Fisherville, Pa., was born in 
Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 22, 1834. He is a son of Philip 
and Margaret A. (Zimmerman) Enders. 

Philip Enders attended the subscription 
schools of the county. lie inherited from 
his father sixty acres of land in Armstrong 
Valley, upon which he made extensive and 
substantial improvements, and upon which 
he engaged largely in farming and stock rais- 
ing. His wife, Margaret A., daughter of 
Christian Zimmerman, died in 1870. Their 
seven children were: George \V . D.; Susanna, 
wife of William Withman ; Elizabeth, de- 
ceased, wife of James Cooper; Margaret A., 
deceased, wife of John F. licit, resides in 
Enders, Pa.; Catherine, wife of Henry Smith, 



engineer on the Lykens Valley railroad ; 
Mary J., wife of Aaron Wilbert, mason, Arm- 
strong Valley ; Isaac F., farmer, on the old 
homestead. Mr. Enders is still living, aged 
eighty-two years. He resides in Armstrong 
Valley, Jackson- township. He has held 
several township offices. His political views 
are Democratic. Mr. Enders is a Lutheran, 
and has held the offices of elder, deacon, ar.d 
other positions of trust in the church. He 
has come through a very active and useful 
life to a comfortable and happy old age, and 
enjoys the esteem and best wishes of a host 
of relatives and friends. 

George W. D. Enders attended the com- 
mon schools of the township and the high 
school of Berrysburg. He remained on the 
homestead with his father until he was 
twenty-six, attending school in his earlier 
youth as often as possible. He taught school 
for nine terms. He worked on the Northern 
Central railroad until 1863. During the 
great rebel invasion which culminated in the 
battle of Gettysburg, he acted with the pio- 
neer corps, cutting down timber, repairing 
bridges, and aiding the Union army in all 
possible ways. After this, he was in the 
Lykens Valley coal regions, employed about 
the mines as machinist, carpenter, boiler 
maker, engineer, etc. During the following 
eight years he was in partnership with his 
brother-in-law, John F. Helt, in mercantile 
business, at Jacksonville, in which he met 
with a fair share of success. Disposing of 
this business, Mr. Enders opened a general 
store, at Enterline, in Powell's Valley, where 
he remained until 1879; he then removed to 
Fisherville and conducted a general mer- 
chandising business there until 1890. In 
this enterprise he formed a partnership with 
a Mr. Lebo, to whom, after one year, he dis- 
posed of his own interest, relinquishing the 
business entirely. 

With the proceeds of this sale Mr. Enders 
purchased a farm in Armstrong Valley, on 
which hi' made valuable improvements, in- 
volving an outlay, including the purchase 
money of the farm, of the handsome sum of 
-?9,00l). His final venture in business, and 
the one which now occupies his attention, is 
a general store in Fisherville, when' he car- 
ries a large stock and varied enough to meet 
the demands of the community. His abil- 
ity and integrity, coupled with his genial 
personality, attracts a large and profitable 
patronage. 

Mr. Enders is a Democrat. He was assist- 



736 



BIO GRA PHI C A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



ant postmaster under Postmaster Joseph P. 
Lyter, at Enders, Pa., from 1868 to 1876, and 
from 1876 to 1879, at Enterline, Pa., under 
Postmaster Amos Sponsler. He was first 
made postmaster under President Hayes, 
and held under the first Cleveland adminis- 
tration ; he was displaced under President 
Harrison, and appointed again in 1893, by 
President Cleveland. He was for several 
years in each office, auditor, school director, 
and judge of elections, and is at present 
township treasurer. He was for seven years 
in the State militia. He is a member of 
Charity Lodge, No. 82, I. 0. 0. F.; Eureka 
Encampment, No. 137, I. 0. 0. F., of Hali- 
fax, Pa., and a member of Lodge, No. 359, 
K. of P. Mr. Enders has been a stockholder 
of the Halifax Bank ever since it was insti- 
tuted, and became its vice-president, a posi- 
tion to which he has since been annually 
re-elected. 

Mr. Enders was married, in 1858, in Jack- 
son township, to Annie Kneile, born in Ger- 
many, in 1835; she came to this country in 
youth. They have one child, Emma K., 
wife of Dr. M. D. Lehr, of Lykens. Dr. and 
Mrs. Lehr have four children. He is a 
member of the Reformed church, and takes 
an active part in all church matters. He is 
an elder in thechurch,and has been deacon, 
Sunday-school superintendent, and teacher. 
The career of Mr. Enders commands the 
admiration of his neighbors, and his charac- 
ter wins their esteem. He is a supporter of 
all good causes and the advancement of his 
community, and is a willing contributor, 
when possible, to the different churches in 
his home, when aid is requested of him. 

Mr. Enders is deeply interested in histor- 
ical matters and recently wrote the follow- 
ing history of the well known Fetterhoff 
church: 

In the year 1795 the citizens and those of 
a religious turn of mind living in Armstrong 
Valley, Dauphin county, resolved to erect 
for themselves a house of worship. Accord- 
ingly, in 1796, St. Peter's church, known as 
Fetterhoffs church, a log structure, was 
erected. It soon became prominent in Ly- 
kens Valley, and was one of the churches of 
the Reformed and Lutheran charge, which 
embraced a large territory, extending as far 
as the east side of the Blue mountains and 
the east side of the Susquehanna river. 

The records show that the first class of 
catechumens was under three months' in- 



struction by Rev. Enterline, and was con- 
firmed on the Saturday before Whit Sun- 
day, 1797. The following composed the 
class : Daniel Enterline, son of Rev. Enter- 
line ; George, son of Francis Schaetfer ; John 
and Simeon, sons of David Herman ; John 
and Elizabeth, son and daughter of Jost 
Miller ; John Adam and Catharine, son and 
daughter of Henry Warfle ; Elizabeth and 
Catharine, daughters of Ann Maria Zimmer- 
man ; Catharine, daughter of Philip C. En- 
ders ; Elizabeth Bowerman, parents not 
given; Magdalena Schmuck, parents not 
given. 

The first sacrament of the Lord's Supper 
was held on Whit Sunday, 1797, Rev. En- 
terline officiating. The following com- 
muned on this occasion : Philip C. Enders, 
Christiana Enders, Ann Maria Miller, Jost 
Miller, Henry Warfle, Ann Maria Zimmer- 
man, John Brown, Eve Maria Brown, Bar- 
bara Degan, Ann Maria Sweigart, Magdalena 
Chubb, and Maria Eva Messerschmidt. 

The next communion on record was held 
and served again by Rev. Enterline in 1799, 
and the following new names appear on the 
records in addition to the above : Carl 
Frederick Frank, Frederick Albrecht, Ann 
Margaretta Null, Christiana Boken, Catha- 
rine Etteninger, Barbara Neffen, Margaretta 
Schultz, Elizabeth Shepley, and Catharine 
Null. 

The third communion on record was held 
October 25, 1807, and served by Rev. I. D. 
Peterson. He also administered the sacra- 
ment in 1808, and July 2 and September 
24, 1809. Like services were held June 3, 
1810, and June 20, 1812, but no pastor's 
name is recorded, only the names of the 
communicants. On August 7, 1813, Rev. 
James Ross Reily confirmed a class of cate- 
chumens, numbering thirty-one members, 
and held communion on the following Sun- 
day, August 8, in which the class and others 
participated. Communion services were held 
on September 10, 1813, November 12, 1814, 
September, 1815, April 28, 1816, October 12, 
1816, May, 1817, October 13, 1817, April 26. 
1818, October 10, 1819. To the latter nine 
communion services no pastor's name is re- 
corded. However, history states that Rev. 
James Ross Reily did ministerial work in 
Lykens Valley up to 1819, when he was e- 
lieved by Rev. Isaac Gerhard, who became 
the regular pastor of the Reformed congre- 
gations, and during this time Rev. Reily 



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DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



739 



served in the Pennsylvania Legislature, the 
charge being served by supplies instead of 
Rev. Reily. 

Rev. Isaac Gerhard confirmed his first 
class of catechumens and held his first com- 
munion service December 25, 1810, and con- 
tinued to serve the church until April 4 
1841. Records show that Lutheran minis- 
ters held communion services from May 11, 
1823, to April, 1832, no names being given. 
From 1832 to May 23, 1836, Rev. J. N. 
Hemping served the Lutheran congrega- 
tion. On December 31, 1837, Rev. G. Elleu- 
meyer administered the sacrament. In 
1841 Rev. John R. Kooken became pastor 
of the Reformed congregation, and held his 
first communion October 17, and continued 
to serve the congregation to April 16, 1843, 
and was assisted in his last communion by 
the Lutheran minister, Rev. William G. 
Leitzel. Records show that Rev. Leitzel was 
pastor of the Lutheran congregation from 
April 17, 1842, to April 16, 1843, and that 
Rev. Kooken assisted him in bis last com- 
munion service. 

The third structure now stands where the 
first was built. The second church was a 
two story frame building, and the present 
one is a brick edifice witli bell tower, stained 
glass windows, and frescoed walls and win- 
dows. The Rev. Kooker, referred to by Mr. 
Enders, became quite prominent politically, 
being appointed United States consul at 
Trinidad, Cuba, and remaining there until 
the breaking out of the Civil war, when lie 
returned to the United States. Having con- 
siderable military knowledge, he organized 
a company of volunteers, became their leader 
and was killed in the battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Va., in 1862. 



Erb, Peter, boot, shoe and harness maker, 
was born near Reamstown, Lancaster county. 
Pa., November 9, 1840. His fatlier having 
died before that time, Mr. Erb never beard 
his father's first name. His mother was 
Barbara (Ludwig) Erb. He was brought up 
by his grandfather Ludwig, who died when 
Peter was twelve years of age, From that 
time he was dependent on his own exertions 
for his living. His first occupation was 
farm work. He had to try hard for the op- 
portunity of working for his board and cloth- 
ing. At the age of fourteen he began to 
learn shoemaking, at which he served an 
apprenticeship of three years. lie then 
continued working at his trade as a journey- 
4S 



man until the breaking out of the Civil war. 
Mr. Erb enlisted, at Lancaster, Pa., in the 
fall of 1861, in company G, Seventy-ninth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, Colonel 
Humbaugh and Captain McGovern. He 
was in many famous battles : At Perr3*ville, 
Stone River, Chickamauga and Chattanooga, 
and in the Atlanta campaign. He marched 
with General Sherman to the sea and up 
through Georgia, South Carolina and North 
Carolina; he was present at the surrender 
of General Johnson. He contributed his 
full share to the achievements of the western 
army, and his brave and patriotic comrades 
is the story of the Nation's salvation and 
honor. In more than a score of battles did 
he stand by the flag; and in the weariness 
of marches and the privations of camps, his 
patriotism and devotion to duty never failed. 
He was mustered out of the service and dis- 
charged at Philadelphia, in June, 1865, and 
returned to Lancaster, Pa., where he remained 
until 1866. In that year he removed to 
Fisherville, Dauphin county, and opened a 
shop and store for the manufacture and sale 
of boots and shoes ; he has continued in this 
business until the present time. In con- 
nection with the shoe business he also man- 
ufactures harness work, his son Charles 
being in charge of this department. 

Mr. Erb was married, in Adams county, 
in 1867, to Julia, daughter of John Fiect, a 
native of Lancaster county. They have 
nine children : Charles, harness maker, in 
business with his father; William, Laura 
and Ellie, attending school ; Lillie, died at 
twelve years of age ; Emma, died aged eight ; 
Lochiel,died when eighteen months old, and 
two children died in infancy. Mr. Erb is a 
member of B. E. Miller Post, No. 393, G. A. 
R., and is commander of the Post. He also 
belongs to Enders Lodsre, No. 359, K. of P., 
at Fisherville. His politics are Republican. 
Mr. Erb is a member of the Lutheran 
church ; he is superintendent of the Sunday- 
school, has been a teacher, and for twenty 
years treasurer of the school. 



Killinger, John G, justice of the peace 
and implement dealer, Fisherville. Dau- 
phin county, Pa., was born November in. 
184<>. He is a son of Jacob and Maria Kil- 
linger. Jacob Killinger was born in South 
Hanover township, November :'». 1811. He 
attended the township school, and worked 
on the farm until he was of age, and left 
home to seek employment. His wife ac- 



740 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OP EDI A 



companied him. Their only capital was 
five dollars in cash, and the sum of their 
goods was the clothing tied up in a red ban- 
danna handkerchief. They located in Hali- 
fax township. Mr. Killinger had learned 
shoemaking, so he opened a small shoe shop. 
They set up housekeeping with two chairs 
and an empty dry goods box for a table, 
which latter gave place to a tool chest. 

Mr. Jacob Killinger invested first in twelve 
acres of land, on which he built a house and 
a shoe shop. Trade prospered, and frugality 
ruled the household. In consequence, ac- 
cumulations furnished means for adding to 
their holding. In course of time they had 
eighty-eight acres of land and all the equip- 
ments and surroundings of a comfortable 
home. In this home Mr. Killinger died 
April 1, 1876, and his wife on August 23 of 
the same year. Their children were: Jacob, 
accidentally drowned in a mill pond; Susan, 
widow of John Novinger, Tiffin, Ohio; 
Lydia.wife of Jacob Zimmerman, of Halifax 
township; Rebecca, died young; Mary, 
widow of Peter Klinger, of Fisherville ; John 
G., and William, carpenter, Dauphin, Pa. 
Mr. Killinger was a Democrat. He was a 
substantial and popular man. 

John G. Killinger was educated in the 
common schools of his township and at 
Truley's Academy, in Snyder county, and 
Berrysburg Seminary. On September 1, 
1864, he enlisted, atHarrisburg, in company 
A, Two Hundred and Tenth regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, under Captain Bower- 
man, and served until the close of the war. 
He was honorably discharged at Arlington 
Heights, May 31, 1865, and returned home. 

In June, 1868, Mr. Killinger took up car- 
pentry, at which he worked for fourteen 
summers, and taught school twenty-one 
terms during the winter months. The con- 
finement of the school room proved detri- 
mental to his health, and compelled him to 
abandon the work of teaching. He next 
tried work on the railroad, but this was too 
arduous. In the fall of 1887 he began 
butchering, and has since followed that busi- 
ness. He is also agent for all kinds of agri- 
cultural implements. He has been very 
successful in this line. He also superintends 
a farm of twenty-two acres. 

Mr. Killinger was married, in Jackson 
township, June 3, 1869, to Anna M. Whit- 
man, born in Halifax township, October 22, 
1846 ; daughter of Philip and Susan (Fetter- 
hoff) Whitman. Their children were: Laura 



A., died when three years old ; Hiram W., 
in business in Philadelphia; Thomas J., 
died at four years of age; John, died aged 
three years; H. Frank, James LaRoss, and 
Maggie P., at home. Mr. Killinger is a 
member of Enders Lodge, No. 359, K. of P., 
Fisherville; and of B. F. Miller Post, No. 
393, G. A. R.; he is adjutant of the Post. 

The grandfather of Mrs. Killinger, Colonel 
Fetterhoff, was in the war of 1812. The 
great-grandmother of Mrs. Killinger (Mc- 
Frederick Fetterhoff) was blind for thirty 
years previous to her death. 

Bonawitz, W. E., M. D., physician and 
surgeon, Fisherville, Pa., was born in Mif- 
flin township, near Berrysburg, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 30, 1866. Jonathan 
Bonawitz, the father of Dr. Bonawitz, was 
born in Mifflin township, and was a son of 
John Bonawitz, a farmer, also a native of 
Dauphin county ; the father of John Bona- 
witz was George Bonawitz, a native of Berks 
county, and of German descent. Some of 
the earlier generations participated in the 
Revolution and in the war of 1812. All of 
the Bonawitz family were land owners and 
stock raisers. The earliest representatives 
of the family settled in Dauphin county 
about 1780. 

Dr. Bonawitz's father, Jonathan Bonawitz, 
is still living. He attended subscription 
schools, grew up on a farm, and made 
farming his life occupation. He was an ex- 
tensive farmer and stock raiser, owning 
more than two hundred acres of land. He 
was a strong advocate of the free school sys- 
tem, and was active and influential in secur- 
ing its adoption. Mr. Bonawitz married 
Margaret Rutter, born in Halifax township, 
daughter of Henry Rutter, a furniture manu- 
facturer. Their children are: Mary L., wife 
of P. E. Stino, who keeps a creamery in Mif- 
flin township ; Charles E., farms the home- 
stead ; Dr. W. E.; Kate, milliner and school 
teacher, and S. Fannie, resides at home. Mr. 
Bonawitz is Republican in his views, but 
does not dabble in politics. He has always 
taken a deep interest in church matters, and 
is a member of the Lutheran church. He 
was a leader of the church choir from the 
age of sixteen until he became too old for 
that work. 

W. E. Bonawitz attended first the common 
schools of Mifflin township and then the 
seminary at Berrysburg, where he received 
a teacher's certificate. He attended the State 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



741 



Normal School, at West Chester, from 1885 
to 1886. When seventeen years old he taught 
school in Northumberland county. He sub- 
sequently taught in Mifflin and Jefferson 
townships, Dauphin county. He read 
medicine with Dr. A.J. Kantz and Dr. J. M. 
Linker, of Berrysburg, after which he studied 
at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, 
of Baltimore, and received his diploma as 
physician and surgeon from that institution 
in 1889. He then took a supplementary 
special course in operative surgery and head, 
throat, and lungs at the same college, and 
received from that college a diploma as spe- 
cialist in the treatment of diseases of the 
heart, throat, and lungs, subsequently pass- 
ing an examination in general medicine and 
surgery at the Medico-Chirurgical College, 
of Philadelphia. 

Dr. Bonawitz began the practice of his 
profession in Fisherville. His recognized 
ability and his agreeable manners have 
made him popular, and he has built up an 
extensive remunerative practice throughout 
the county. His services are in demand in 
the surrounding territory and in other towns 
and boroughs. He has performed many 
most difficult surgical operations with phe- 
nomenal success. 

Dr. Bonawitz was married, at Berrysburg, 
in 1890, to Anna M. Beshler, of Philadelphia, 
born in Berrysburg, daughter of Dr. John 
Beshler, and granddaughter of Dr. Henry 
Beshler, well-known physicians of Dauphin 
county. They have no children. Dr. Bona- 
witz is a member of Enders Lodge, No. 359, 
K. of P., Fisherville, and of the Improved 
Order of Heptasophs. He belongs to the 
Lutheran church. Dr. Bonawitz was ap- 
pointed physician for the poor in his district 
in 1892, and has held the office since that 
time. Pie is both successful in his profes- 
sion and popular as a man. 



Bixler, Cornelius, merchant and manu- 
facturer, was born in Iliggins township, 
Schuylkill county, Pa., November 20, 183L 
His father, John Bixler, was born in the 
same township, and was a son of Peter Bix- 
ler, a native of Berks county, Pa., of German 
and English ancestry. John Bixler grew up 
on the farm in his native count} 1 . His 
father, Peter, was a large landholder and 
carried on several branches of business, farm- 
ing, distilling and wagon making. In 184 I 
John Bixler removed with his family to 
Dauphin count}' and located in Jackson 



township, where he owned a farm and mill, 
which he operated until his death, in 1863. 
He married Sarah Straw, a native of Berks 
county, daughter of Benjamin Straw, a 
farmer, of Schuylkill county, Pa. They had 
eight children : Sarah A., wife of James 
Miller, farmer, of Jackson township; Cor- 
nelius, Percival, William, Kate, Mary, Lvdia, 
and one who died in infancy. Mr. Bixler 
was a Democrat in his earlier life, and after- 
wards a Republican. He died in 18G3, and 
his wife died June 17, 1896. 

Cornelius Bixler attended the common 
schools of his township. In boyhood and 
early manhood he was employed about his 
father's mill, where he remained until his 
father's death, when he sold the mill. He then 
enlisted in company A, Two Hundred and 
Tenth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. 
He entered the army as a second lieutenant, 
and was subsequently in command of com- 
pany C. He was at the fight of Gravel Run. 
at Five Forks and Richmond, and was 
present at the surrender of General Lee. 
He was sick in the hospital for three days, 
but escaped all wounds, although many 
comrades fell on all sides of him. 

At the close of the war Mr. Bixler returned 
to his native county and located in Fisher- 
ville, where he took charge of a hotel and 
conducted it for five years with gratifying 
success. He also established a carriage fac- 
tory, and undertook the manufacture of ve- 
hicles on a large scale, giving employment 
to many men, and in many ways benefiting 
the community. For twenty years he was 
interested in this business, and gave it his 
best efforts with good results. The enter- 
prise was the pride and joy of his heart. He 
enjoyed to the utmost the sight of skilled 
mechanics at their work, earning comfort- 
able wages, producing meritorious work, and 
making patrons pleased with their purchases, 
lie regarded the busy factory as the very 
fountain of prosperity, sending out its streams 
in all directions to bless the community. 

In 1SS4 he relinquished his business and 
entered the political arena as county com- 
missioner. In 1892 Mr. Bixler erected two 
creameries, one at Fisherville, the other in 
Powell's Valley, Halifax township. At an 
expenditure of $6,000 he provided his plants 
with the finest equipments to be had. These 
creameries are also a great public benefit. 
The payment to farmers for milk is over 
$1,600 per month, and the products are 
shipped to points near and far, throughout 



742 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the country. In connection with the cream- 
ery, Mr. Bixler runs a cider mill, which pro- 
duces a hundred barrels daily. He has a 
farm of fifty-two acres, near Fisherville, upon 
which he has made important improvements 
for keeping ten milch cows and other stock. 
In 1893 he added to his enterprises a general 
merchandise business, and in this also he 
meets with deserved success. 

Mr. Bixler was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, September, 1856, to Catherine A., daugh- 
ter of Daniel Miller, a farmer of Jackson 
township. They have had twelve children, of 
whom six are living: Isaac P., shipper, at 
Halifax ; Emma J., housekeeper for her 
father ; David W., resides in Powell's Valley : 
Katie, wife of Samuel Bowman, a hotel man, 
of Fisherville; John, a storekeeper, and 
William, at school. Mary E. and Robert 
died young, and four died in infancy. Mr. 
Bixler is a Republican. He was elected 
county commissioner in 1884, on the Re- 
publican ticket, receiving 3,200 votes over 
his competitor; in 1888 he was elected for a 
second term to the same office. His admin- 
istration was marked by many substantial 
improvements throughout the county. 

Mr. Bixler is a member of Enders Lodge, 
No. 359, K. of P., Fisherville, and has main- 
tained his membership for twenty-one years. 
He belongs to B. F. Miller Post, No. 393, G. 
A. R. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church. The business enterprise of Mr. Bix- 
ler has made his name a household word, 
and his popularity is unlimited. Mrs. Bixler 
died March 6, 1892. 



Helt, John F., postmaster and general 
merchant, was born in Clark's Valley, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 14, 1841. His 
father, David Helt, was a native of Dauphin 
county, and a son of Christian Helt, an ex- 
tensive farmer and stockman in Clark's Val- 
ley. David Helt also was largely interested 
in the same business, being the owner 
of over three hundred acres of land. He 
married Elizabeth Miller, a native of Dau- 
phin count}', by whom he had eight chil- 
dren: John F.; Henry, deceased ; Emeline, 
widow of David Smink ; William, deceased ; 
Daniel, farmer of Jackson township ; Eliza- 
beth, deceased ; Catherine, unmarried, and 
one child who died in infancy. David Helt 
died in Jackson township, May 3, 1883. His 
wife is living, and resides in the township. 
Mr. Helt was a Republican. He was a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church, and was deacon 



and elder, and held other church offices. 
He was a prominent and popular man. 

John F. Helt attended school in Union- 
town, Clark's and Powell's Valley, for six 
months; this was his entire school educa- 
tion. He is self-educated. He worked with 
his father on the farm until he was fifteen, 
after which he hired out to work for wages, 
for three years. At eighteen years of age he 
went to learn carpentry, in which occupa- 
tion he spent ten years. During part of the 
time he was a contractor and builder. In 
1867 Mr. Helt formed a partnership with 
George W. D. Enders in the mercantile busi- 
ness, in Jackson township. This partnership 
continued until 1876, when he bought the 
interest of Mr. Enders, and has since con- 
ducted the business with fair success. He is 
a director in the Halifax Bank and was one 
of its organizers. 

Mr. Helt was first appointed postmaster 
under the administration of President Hayes, 
and has given so general satisfaction that 
he has been retained in office through all 
the changes in the General Government. 
Mr. Helt is a Democrat. He has filled the 
township offices of school director, auditor 
and treasurer. He was married, in 1861, to 
Margaret Enders, a native of Jackson town- 
ship, daughter of Conrad Enders, and sister 
of G. W. D. Enders. They have two chil- 
dren : Anna J., wife of Dr. C. C. Miller, of 
Halifax, and Ira M. Mrs. Helt died No- 
vember 21, 1894. Mr. Helt is a member of 
the Lutheran church. 

Ira M. Helt, son of John F. Helt, was born 
August 17, 1865. He was educated in the 
district schools, in the high school of Eliza- 
bethville, and in Berrysburg Academy. He 
is now in charge of his father's store. He 
is a promising young business man, and is 
popular in all circles. Mr. Helt was mar- 
ried, on his twenty-fifth birthday, August 
17, 1890, to Maggie, daughter of William 
Philips. They have two children : Vernie 
and Carrie. Mr. Helt is a Democrat. He 
is a member of the Lutheran church. 



Enders, George W., general merchant, 
was born in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 6, 1836. His grand- 
father, John Enders, was a son of the first 
Enders who settled in Dauphin county, a 
sketch of whom is found in connection with 
the sketch of G. W. D. Enders. He was 
born in Lancaster county, and was the 
owner of six hundred acres of land. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



743 



John Enders, father of George W., was 
born in Jackson township, in 1800. He at- 
tended the subscription schools of the town- 
ship, and later his occupation was farming 
and stock raising. lie married Sarah Ettien, 
born in Halifax township. They had ten 
children : Peter, veteran of the late war, of 
Jacksonville ; Henry, of Jacksonville ; Eliza- 
beth, deceased ; Catherine, deceased, wife of 
Daniel Shope; Mary, second wife of Daniel 
Shope ; Philip, farmer in Wyandotte county, 
Ohio ; George W.; John, deceased ; Nelson, 
residing in Harrisburg; Jacob, farmer of 
Jackson township, and a veteran of the late 
war. The father died in 1872, the mother 
in 1873. Mr. John Enders was for fifteen 
years justice of the peace, was tax collector, 
and was first president of the school board 
of Jackson township, being elected about 
1834. His politics were Democratic. He 
was a member of the United Brethren 
church. He was well known and highly 
esteemed for his many virtues and excel- 
lencies. 

George W. Enders attended the common 
schools of the township and Berrysburg 
Academy, where he received a liberal edu- 
cation. He taught school for twenty-six 
years in Jackson, Halifax and Williams 
townships. He also learned shoemaking, 
and followed that trade for some time. 
Having accumulated money by teaching, 
Mr. Enders removed to Jacksonville and 
erected a fine house and store, at an expen- 
diture of §4,000. He went into mercantile 
business in 1884, to which he has since that 
time given his attention. He has built up 
a profitable business. He has also invested 
in land, having farms aggregating one hun- 
dred and sixteen acres, one of which, with 
the improvements made on it, has cost him 
$3,000. Stock raising is also part of his 
business. 

Mr. Enders was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, in 1858, to Susan Warner, a native of 
Dauphin county, daughter of John Warner, 
of that county. They have four children: 
Fernando C., farmer, married Emma Yingst, 
residing in Tennessee ; Clinton D., farms 
the homestead, married Laura Enders ; Wal- 
ter, farmer, of Jackson township, married 
Jane Shook ; and Carson C.,at home. Mr. En- 
ders has been agent for the Halifax Mutual 
Fire Insurance Company for eighteen years. 
He has been justice of the peace for twenty- 
four years, and lias never had an appeal 
taken from his court. His politics are 



Democratic, but he votes the Prohibition 
ticket. He is a member of the United 
Brethren church, is local preacher, member 
of the annual conference, elder of the church 
since 1880, and has been superintendent of 
the Sunday-school twenty-five years. He is 
one of the substantial and reliable men of 
the community, and is universally esteemed. 



Wilbert. C. B., teacher and farmer, was 
born in Jackson townshio, Dauphin countv, 
Pa., March 18, 1857. His father, Levi Wil- 
bert, was born in Jackson township in 1823, 
and died in 1892. He was a stone mason, 
and was engaged in canal and railroad 
building. He was married, in April, 1856, 
in Jackson township, to Julia, daughter of 
Adam Zimmerman, a farmer of Jackson 
township. They had three children : C. B.; 
Isaac, killed in the coal mines at Williams- 
town, January, 1889, and Annie, wife of Al- 
bert Dieterich, of Lykens township. Mr. 
Wilbert was a Republican. His wife is liv- 
ing and resides in Jacksonville, Pa. 

C B. Wilbert attended the common schools 
until he was fifteen years old. In 1873 he 
entered the Berrysburg high school. He 
had a strong desire to obtain a more liberal 
education, and to prepare himself for the 
profession of a teacher. He had no re- 
sources at his command save his natural 
capacity and the laudable ambition to be- 
come a useful and prominent man. He 
taught school in Jackson township in 1873. 
He attended the State Normal School at 
Millersville, Lancaster county, during the 
sessions of 1S75, 1876 and 1878. By this 
course of alternate teaching and studying he 
was enabled to secure a thorough training 
for his chosen profession. 

Mr. Wilbert has been a teacher for twenty- 
two years in Jackson township, and the re- 
sults of his work are seen in the numbers of 
his pupils who hold honorable positions in 
the ranks of business and professional men. 
There are teachers, preachers, doctors and 
lawyers, as well as merchants, manufactur- 
ers and farmers, who gratefully acknowledge 
their indebtedness to his faithful and skill- 
ful instructions. How to succeed in teaching 
has been his life's study, and he has cer- 
tainly solved the problem in his experience 
and success. He has also found time to 
superintend and cultivate a farm. 

Mr. Wilbert was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, September 2. 1SS1, to Lydia Louder- 
milch, born September 2, 1856, a native of 



744 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Jackson township, where her father, Michael 
Loudermilch, a well-known farmer, shoe- 
maker and butcher, resides. They have had 
four children : Ella M., born July 20, 1882 ; 
Annie E., May 4, 1891; Mabel A., died 
young; and Emma B., born May 24, 1896. 
Mr. Wilbert is a member of the Order of 
United American Mechanics. He is a Re- 
publican, and was clerk of the township. He 
is a Lutheran, and has been a deacon in the 
church for six years. He has been a teacher 
in the Sunday-school since 1875, and is 
now its superintendent. He stands high 
among the teachers of the State, and is a 
genial and popular gentleman, and was 
census enumerator in 1880 for Jackson town- 
ship. 



Miller, James, farmer, was born in Jack- 
son township, Dauphin county, Pa., Janu- 
ary 26, 1843. His great-grandfather, Joseph 
Miller, was born in Germany. He came to 
this country some time between 1760 and 
1770, and settled in the valley which now is 
comprised in Jackson township. He was an 
extensive farmer and stock raiser. He died 
in Jackson township. His son, Joseph Mil- 
ler, the grandfather of James Miller, grew 
up on his father's farm and followed his 
father's occupations, to which he added that 
of distilling. He married a Miss Lantz, 
by whom he had seven children : John, 
Samuel, Joseph, Barbara, Catherine, Sarah, 
and Maria. He died in Jackson township. 

Joseph Miller (3), father of James Miller, 
attended subscription schools in the town- 
ship. He followed the occupations of his 
father and grandfather, and was extensively 
engaged in farming, stock raising and dis- 
tilling. He married Elizabeth Bowerman, 
born in Jefferson township, in 1815, and 
died in 1886. They had six children : John, 
enlisted in company A, Fifteenth regiment, 
United States infantry, went into the field, 
and was never heard from ; Joseph, engi- 
neerin Hoe'sfactory ; Jacob, deceased ; James; 
B. F., who died in the army, and Sarah, 
wife of James Nobinger, a farmer and car- 
penter of Jackson township. Mr. Miller still 
lives, at the ripe age of eighty-three years. 
He is a member of the Lutheran church, 
and has been trustee, deacon, elder, Sunday- 
school teacher, and superintendent. His 
politics are Republican. Mr. Miller is an 
impressive example of a happy old age; his 
happiness is well founded and can never 
decay. It consists in doing good, and try- 



ing to make others happy. He has made 
himself familiar with all that the Heavenly 
Father has to communicate of truth and 
grace to his children, in the messages of 
love contained in the Bible, hence his mind 
is fortified against errors which might else 
disturb his peace. His own family, who 
best know him, and have felt his influence 
most, love him best, but all bear witness to 
the life of charity, righteousness and purity 
which he has led. 

James Miller, until he was seventeen years 
old, was in the district schools a short time 
in the winter, and was busy at farm work in 
summer. At the age mentioned, he went to 
learn the trade of shoemakiug, in his native 
township, and after acquiring the trade con- 
tinued working at it for some time. He 
then went to York county, where for two 
years he was engaged in milling, at which 
business he afterwards spent two more years 
in Jackson township, Dauphin county. 

On August 10, 1863, Mr. Miller enlisted 
at Harrisburg, in company C, Fifteenth reg- 
iment, United States infantry, for five years, 
under Col. A. M. Dudley and Capt. A. M. 
Brown, and was sent to Fort Adams, R. I. 
He was in the quartermaster's department 
as wagon master. Mr. Miller was in the 
service three and a half years, six months of 
which time he spent in the hospital, suffer- 
ing with lung and liver troubles. He was 
discharged at Vicksburg, Miss., in Januar}', 
1866, after which he returned home, and 
was for two } r ears in the milling business. 
He then purchased a farm, which he im- 
proved at an outlay of $2,000 ; he has since 
been engaged in farming and stock raising. 
He has found trading very profitable, and 
since 1875 has given it much attention. He 
is also interested in a dairy. 

Mr. Miller was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, May 28, 1868, to Sarah A. Bixler, born 
in Jackson township, February 18, 1847 ; 
sister of Cornelius Bixler, a sketcli of whom 
appears elsewhere in this volume. They 
had four children : Lydia O, born January 
11, 1869, married December 24, 1894, to C. 
M. Bowerman, school teacher, of Jackson 
township; J. Edward, born October 10,1872, 
plasterei', married Annie Harper, born in 
Jackson township ; Sarah E., born Mav 10, 
1879, and Annie M., born July 18, 1883, at- 
tending school. 

Mr. Miller is a Republican and is inspec- 
tor of elections. He is a member of the Lu- 
theran church, and has been deacon, elder, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



745 



Sunday-school teacher and superintendent. 
He belongs to R. B. Miller Post, No. 393, G. 
A. R., and to Enders Lodge, No. 359, K. of 
P., Fisherville. Mr. Miller is a hard worker, 
and is full of push and pluck. He has suc- 
ceeded in the struggle of life, and enjoys the 
good will and esteem of the community. 

Snyder, Joseph, farmer and stockman, 
was born in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., October 9, 1843. His great- 
grandfather emigrated from Germany and 
settled in Jackson township, where he was 
an extensive farmer and stock raiser. Will- 
iam Snyder, grandfather of Joseph Snyder, 
was a native of Dauphin county, and en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits. He also kept 
what is known as the Mountain House. He 
had eleven children : George, Daniel, Peter, 
Michael, Jonathan, John Christian, Cathe- 
rine, Lydia, Mary, Ellen, and Susanna. 
William Snyder died in Jackson township. 
He was a good church member, and was re- 
spected by all who knew him. 

John Christian Snyder, father of Joseph, 
grew up on the farm, and became a farmer 
and stock raiser. He married Susan Miller, 
born in Jackson township ; died in 1882. 
They had eleven children : Nathaniel ; Peter; 
Lydia, died young ; Joseph ; Ellen, deceased, 
wife of Uriah Hegard ; Isaac P., deceased ; 
Josiah, resides at Fisherville; Mary M., 
wife of William McNeal, farmer, of Jackson 
township; Susan A., wife of Nathaniel Shutt, 
Jackson township; C. Frank, farmer, and 
William R., farmer. Mr. Snyder was a Re- 
publican. He was a member of the Re- 
formed and Lutheran church. He died in 
Jackson township in 1885. 

Joseph Snyder attended school a part of 
each year, and worked on the farm in busy 
seasons, lie remained on the home farm 
until he was twenty years old. After this he 
worked two years at shoemaking with Daniel 
Shoop, of Jackson township. He was occu- 
pied in shoemaking on bis own account 
until 1883, when he fell ill, and had to go 
to the hospital. In the fall of 1883 Mr. Sny- 
der bought a farm of sixty-seven acres, for 
which lie paid §4,200. After improving it 
and working it two years, lie sold it for 
$4,200. In 1885 he bought the farm lie now 
owns and occupies, consisting of one hun- 
dred and eighty acres, for §8,500, and ex- 
pended $1,000 more in making improve- 
ments on it. Mr. Snyder is justly con- 
sidered one of the most enterprising farmers 



in the township. Besides his land invest- 
ments he has also an interest in the Fisher- 
ville creamery. Mr. Snyder was married, in 
1866, to Mary, daughter of John Zimmer- 
man, born in Jackson township, in 1846. 
They have three children : Lillie C.,at home; 
Ira P., in the creamery business at Bowells- 
ville, Ohio, and Martin Luther, attending 
school and farming. Mr. Snyder is a Re- 
publican, and is serving as a school director. 
He is a member of the Lutheran church, 
and has been six years a deacon. Mr. Sny- 
der is well known, and recognized as a man 
of intelligence and good judgment, progres- 
sive and full of enterprise. He is well liked 
by his neighbors. 



Zimmerman, Amos, farmer and stockman, 
was born in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 18, 1841. Christian 
Zimmerman, his grandfather, was a farmer 
and stock raiser in the same township. 
John Zimmerman, father of Amos, was born 
in Jackson township, February 12, 1816. 
He attended subscription schools, and from 
early boyhood worked on his father's farm. 
He made farming and stock raising his life- 
long occupation. Mr. Zimmerman was mar- 
ried, June 1, 1837, to Lydia Bowman, born 
April 23, 1815, in Jackson township. They 
had eight children: Charles B., born De- 
cember 10, 1S38, farmer, Cumberland county, 
Pa.; Nathaniel, born May 5, 1840, deceased ; 
Amos, born December 18, 1841 ; Susan, 
February 16, 1844, wife of William David- 
son ; Mar}', March 3, 1S46, wife of Joseph 
Snyder ; Jacob, May 7, 1848, deceased ; Mar- 
garet, February 6, 1850, wife of George Shez- 
ley, carpenter ; Isaac P., May 17, 1855, a pas- 
tor in the Lutheran church, in Schuylkill 
county, Pa. The father died July 14,'l88S, 
and the mother February 28, 1885. Mr. 
Zimmerman belonged to the Democratic 
party, and was a member of the Lutheran 
church. 

Amos Zimmerman attended the common 
schools of Jackson township in the winter, 
and worked on the farm during the summer 
months, until he was twenty-one years old. 
For two more years lie remained at home 
and cultivated his father's farm, but at the 
age of twenty-three lie went with his young 
wife and all the property the)' possessed to 
Lykens Valley. There he rented a farm 
and began life for himself, lie cultivated 
that farm for six years, and then, returning 
to Jackson township, bought the farm he 



746 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



now owns, which he has tilled and im- 
proved, and made his home from that time 
to the present. He is one of the enterprising 
and successful farmers and stock raisers of 
the township. Mr. Zimmerman was married, 
in Jackson township, December 1, 1864, to 
Mary Yeager, born in Lykens Valley, in 
June, 1848 ; daughter of Christopher Yeager, 
a retired farmer, living in Fisherville. They 
have one child, Kate, born in October, 1868, 
wife of Henry Remberger, farmer, of Jack- 
son township, who has two children, Harry 
and Edna. 

Mr. Zimmerman is a Democrat. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church, in which 
he has held the offices of deacon, elder, Sun- 
day-school teacher and superintendent. He 
is well known, is genial and popular. 

Zimmerman, Harrison, farmer, was born 
in Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
May 5, 1864. Jacob Zimmerman, father of 
Harrison, was born in the same township, 
in April, 1833. He was educated in its sub- 
scription and common schools. He became 
a farmer and stockman, and is classed among 
the progressive and prosperous farmers of 
Armstrong Valley. He married Sybilla 
Yoder, born in Upper Mahantango Valley, 
Schuylkill county, Pa., in 1834, and died in 
October, 1894. they had eleven children : 
Louisa, wife of Isaiah Enders, farmer, Jack- 
son township ; Alice, wife of Ed. Specht, 
Washington township, Dauphin county ; 
Lucinda^ wife of Frank Snyder, farmer, 
Jackson township ; Felix, farmer, Jackson 
township ; Harrison ; Gabriel, farmer, Jack- 
son township ; Calon, resides on the home- 
stead ; Annie, wife of Miner Elvord ; Har- 
vey, Robert, and Myron, all three at home. 
The father is still living, and resides on the 
old homestead. He is of the Republican 
party, a prominent citizen, and well liked 
by his neighbors. He is a member of the 
Lutheran church. 

Harrison Zimmerman attended the schools 
of Jackson and Jefferson townships. He 
was a student at Berrysburg Academy, at 
Cross Road Seminary, and took a course 
under Major Dill at Freeburg Academy, 
Snyder county, and also took a course under 
D. D. DeLong, at Lebanon Valley College. 
These advantages gave him ample training 
and equipment for his life work, which was 
the profession of teaching. He was engaged 
in that work twelve years, in Jackson, Rush 
and Halifax townships. He had labored 



faithfully in his younger days to obtain 
means for his education ; thus he may be 
called a self-made man. In 1893 he gave up 
teaching, and bought the old Miller farm of 
one hundred acres, which he has greatly im- 
proved, and is cultivating. Mr. Zimmerman 
was married, in Jackson township, January 
14, 1886, to Rebecca Shoop, a native of Wayne 
township, and daughter of William and 
Elizabeth (Wise) Shoop. They have five 
children: Leroy, Raymond, William, How- 
ard, and Herbert. Mr. Zimmerman is a 
Republican ; he has been clerk of elections. 
He is a member of the United Brethren 
church, in which he is class leader, steward, 
Sunday-school superintendent and teacher. 



Snyder, Josiah, implement dealer and 
partner of John G. Killinger, was born in 
Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
October 29, 1848. He is a son of John 
Christian and Susan (Miller) Snyder, a sketch 
of whom appears with that of Joseph Snyder 
in this volume. Josiah Snyder attended the 
Miller's district school, Jackson township. 
His life, until he was twenty-one, was passed 
on his father's farm. After reaching his 
majority he spent nine months in Washington 
township learning the blacksmith trade. He 
was then employed as a journeyman by Mr. 
Migley, of Fisherville. In 1875 he opened 
a shop of his own, and carried on the busi- 
ness for fourteen years in Fisherville. His 
health at last demanding outdoor employ- 
ment, he bought a farm of eighty-two acres, 
which he improved and cultivated for some 
time, but subsequently rented it. Previous 
to this farm enterprise he had been agent for 
the sale of C. H. McCormick's farming ma- 
chinery ; and now, in connection with Mr. 
Killinger, his partner, Mr. Snyder deals in 
the machinery and implements of this and 
other firms. He also owns property in Fish- 
erville besides his farm. He is a Republican ; 
has been treasurer of the township and col- 
lector of State and county taxes ; he was also 
inspector of elections. Mr. Snyder is a 
member of the Lutheran church, is not 
married and is a genial, whole souled, social 
man, fend of good company and is himself 
good company. 

Keiter, Samuel, was born in Jackson 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., November 
8, 1819. He is a son of Garhert Keiter, a 
Pennsylvanian, of German ancestry, and a 



DA UPHIN COUNTY. 



747 



former and stock raiser of Jackson township. 
He married Barbara Lentz. They had ten 
children: John, Joseph, Michael, Garhert, 
Peter, Samuel, Catherine, Sarah, Ann, and 
Barbara, all of whom are deceased except 
Samuel. Mr.and Mrs. Keiter were Lutherans. 
The)' died in Jackson township. Mr. Keiter 
was a Republican. 

Samuel Keiter attended the subscription 
schools, and worked with his father at farm- 
ing until he was of age. He then learned 
shoemaking, and worked at that trade for 
eight years. Pie then bought eighty acres 
of land on which he now resides, built a 
house and barn, and otherwise extensively 
improved the land, which he continued for 
some time to cultivate. In 1862, at the age 
of forty-three, Mr. Keiter was drafted into 
the army, and assigned to company A, One 
Hundred and Seventy-second regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, under Capt. Solo- 
mon Bowerman and Colonel Cleckner. He 
served nine months and was then discharged, 
and returned home. He resumed farming ; 
also, for twelve years, in connection with his 
brother Michael, was a manufacturer of lum- 
ber. In this business they met with fair suc- 
cess. Mr. Keiter was married, in Jackson 
township, in 1S42, to Miss Susanna Shott, born 
in Lykens Valley. They had twelvecbildren : 
Susan, wife of Henry Hoffman; Jonas, de- 
ceased ; Catherine, deceased ; Philip, farmer; 
Leah, wife of Solomon Matters; Ellen, wife of 
William Shertzer; Sarah, wife of Isaac Hen- 
ninger; Elizabeth, deceased, wife of James 
Miller; Amanda, wife of Isaac A. Enders; 
Isaac, farmer, South Bend, Ind. ; Charles, 
and Hiram. Mr. Keiter is a Republican, but 
no office seeker. He is a member of the Lu- 
theran church. Mr. and Mrs. Keiter have 
pa'ssed fifty-four years of wedded life, have 
reared a family of twelve children, have 
been industrious and frugal, and are now 
quietly enjoying the fruits of their well spent 
life. They are surrounded by three genera- 
tions of descendants, but are not chilled by 
the frosts of age. They are cheerful and 
genial, and by old and young are considered 
pleasant company. They present an attrac- 
tive example of the happiness resulting from 
right living. In their own cheerful old age, 
in the society of their children and grand- 
children, in the enjoyment of home and 
friends, they proclaim that the marriage re- 
lation is no failure, but the largest success of 
which human nature is capable. 



Miller, Aaron, farmer and slock raiser, 
was born in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., July 9, 1840. John Miller, his 
grandfather, was of German descent. He 
came from Northumberland county to Dau- 
phin county in 1817, settled in Jackson 
township, and cleared a farm of one hundred 
and seventy acres of land ; on this farm he 
died. His son, Michael Miller, was born in 
Northumberland county, Pa. He was a 
farmer, and also, for twenty years, a black- 
smith. He improved and cultivated a farm 
of two hundred and two acres, and had one 
of one hundred and forty-one acres, also over 
two hundred acres of woodland ; he was also 
engaged in stock raising. His first wife was 
Catherine Straw, of Jackson township. Their 
children are: Josiah, Balthasar, and Cyrus, 
a blacksmith, married a Miss Sweigard, and 
died in Reading, Pa., leaving a widow and 
four children. After Mrs. Miller's death, 
Mr. Miller married Plannah Buffinger, 
widow of Jacob Kolva. They had ten chil- 
dren : Michael, who lives on the old home- 
stead, in Jackson township ; Lydia, Eli, Sam- 
uel, all died under the age of eight years; 
Leah, died at the age of forty-two ; Hannah, 
wife of D. A. Snyder, Elizabeth ville; Joshua, 
died in his third year, John A., deceased, 
and twins, who died in infancy. Mr. Miller 
was a Democrat ; he held the offices of as- 
sessor and tax collector. He was trustee to 
the end of his life in the Lutheran church, in 
which he and Mrs. Miller held membership. 
Mr. Miller died December 27. 1864. and his 
wife April 24, 1890. 

Aaron Miller was educated in the common 
schools of his township. He remained on the 
farm until his father's death, which occurred 
when Aaron was eighteen. For two years he 
worked on the home farm, and then began 
business for himself. He bought a farm of 
one hundred and forty acres, where he now 
resides; on it he built a barn, and made 
many other improvements, among which 
was the planting of a large apple orchard. 
Mr. Miller has several other farms in the 
valley; he is one of its largest landholders, 
having upwards of three hundred and fifty 
acres of good, arable land. He is also largely 
interested in the breeding of stock. Mr. Miller 
was married, in Lvkens township, to Flor- 
endfl Mender, born in Washington township, 
daughter of A. Q. and Susanna (Fisher) 
Bender. They have six children ; Fannie, 
wife of Harry McNeal; Edwin, attending 



748 



BIO GRA PHI C A L ENCTGL 0PED1A 



school ; Ammond, on the homestead ; Sarah, 
living at home ; Harry, and Adam, attend- 
ing school. Mr. Miller is a Democrat; he 
has been inspector of elections and tax col- 
lector. He was a member of the Knights of 
Pythias and the Order of United American 
Mechanics, but is not so now. He is a mem- 
ber, and was deacon, of the Lutheran church. 
He is genial and hospitable, is widely known 
and highly esteemed. 

Enders, Isaac F., farmer, was born in 
Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
December 30, 1853. He is a son of Philip 
Enders, and brother of George W. D. En- 
ders, whose sketch appears in this volume. 
He was educated in the common schools of 
the township, and worked with his father on 
the farm. After his marriage he took 
charge of the homestead of fifty-nine acres. 
Three years ago he bought the home farm, 
and has made many valuable improvements 
upon it. He is engaged in stock raising. 

He, in company with Clinton D. Enders, 
made a tour South and West, in January, 
1890. They visited F. C. Enders, who 
moved to Fountain Head, Tenn., in 1888, 
where they had a pleasant and profitable 
time, visiting Nashville, the State capital, 
the State armory, Fort Mitchell, where they 
found bullets that were fired in the late war, 
and also Forts Negley and Markin. They 
left there January 22 for Cincinnati and 
Columbus, Ohio, then went to Upper San- 
dusky, Tiffin, Bloomsville and Carey, where 
they met their old friends of boyhood days, 
Charles Enders, Nathan Shoop and Charles 
and Aaron Sweigard. These friends left 
Dauphin county when grown up and are all 
successful farmers, having already purchased 
farms of their own. On February 7 they 
left for home, having had a very profitable 
time, meeting old acquaintances and mak- 
ing a careful study of farming in the differ- 
ent sections of the country visited. 

Mr. Enders was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, in 1876, to Maggie, daughter of the 
late James and Mary (Fell) Wilson. She 
was born in Jefferson township, October 9, 
1854. They have had one child, Philip 
Byrne, born in 1886. Mrs. Wilson's father, 
James Wilson, was killed in the army, dur- 
ing the war of the Rebellion. Her mother 
died in Jackson township. Mr. Enders is a 
'Democrat. He has served as inspector of 
elections. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church. He is a genial, whole-souled man. 



He takes good care of his father, who is now 
over eighty years of age, and gives him a 
good home. Mr. Enders enjoys the respect 
and esteem of his neighbors. 



Fitting, William H, farmer and stock- 
man, was born in Jackson township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 20, 1833. John 
Fitting, his grandfather, was born in Ger- 
many, and emigrated to this country, set- 
tling in Dauphin county, where he was en- 
gaged in farming in a small way, and where 
he reared his family. John Fitting (2), 
father of W. H. Fitting, was born in Han- 
over township, where he grew up and at- 
tended school. He worked on the farm in 
early youth, and afterwards learned shoemak- 
ing, which trade he carried on for some 
years. He finally removed to Jackson town- 
ship, and bought a farm of ninety acres, and 
sixty acres of woodland. Here he engaged 
in farming and stock raising. He married 
Sarah Betz, of Northumberland county, Pa. 
They had ten children : William H; Samuel 
deceased ; Annie R., deceased ; Mary A., 
widow of Samuel Miller, and mother of 
Dr. C. C. Miller, of Halifax ; Sarah, wife of 
Henry Rough, farmer, Lykens Valley, and 
Valeria, wife of George Hummel, of Lykens 
Valley. The other children died in infancy. 
Mr. Fitting was a Republican. He and his 
wife were members of the Reformed church, 
in which he was an elder. They both died 
in Jackson township. 

William H. Fitting attended the common 
schools of this township, and worked on the 
farm with his father until he was sixteen 
years of age, when his father died. For 
four 3 r ears after he worked the farm and sup- 
ported the family. At twenty years of age 
lie married and removed to Lykens Valley, 
where he cultivated a rented farm for nine 
years. He then returned to Jackson town- 
ship and bought the ninety-acre farm on 
which he now lives. He built a fine dwell- 
ing and other farm structures, and made 
improvements costing $15,000. He also 
bought another farm of fifty-five acres near 
Fishersville, which his son cultivates. 

Mr. Fitting's marriage took place in Jack- 
son township, October 23, 1853. His wife 
was Miss Caroline, daughter of Adam and 
Elizabeth (Lebo) Cooper; she was born in 
Mifflin township, November 28, 1832; her 
father was a farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Fitting 
had seven children: Amanda, wife of Heze- 
kiah Matter, Millersburg; Cevilia, wife of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



749 



Reuben Snyder; John, school and music 
teacher, married Clara Boyer; Leon, de- 
ceased, married Annie Tison, has two sons, 
Samuel E. and William H.; Elmer, farmer, 
married Emma Albright; Harry, teacher, 
Jefferson township, and Samuel, deceased. 

Mr. Fitting is a Republican ; he has served 
as tax collector of the township. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church, in which 
he is deacon and elder. Mr. Fitting is a 
good living man, and has made life success- 
ful. He married at twenty, and set out in 
the world with his young wife to earn a liv- 
ing and make a home. His present situa- 
tion, in a delightful home, where he and his 
worthy wife are resting from the active 
duties of life, is a suitable close to his 
career. He is justly honored and esteemed. 
John, the eldest son of Mr. Fitting, takes a 
very active part in church matters; he has 
been superintendent of the Sunday-school for 
several years, and is secretary of the church. 
The mother of Mr. Fitting was of the sturdy 
old Scotch-Irish ancestry. 



Frank, George W., farmer, was born in 
Jackson township, August 13, 1835. His 
father, David Frank, was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa. He grew up on a farm, and be- 
came a farmer. He removed to Dauphin 
county, and settled in Jackson township, 
where he bought a farm and engaged in 
raising stock and distilling for many years. 
He married Annie Cameron, and had ten 
children : Henry, Jacob, John, Samuel, 
George, Daniel, Sarah, Susanna, Julia, wife 
of Frederick Baker, Dauphin, Pa., and one 
that died in infancy. Miss Susan, Mrs. Ba- 
ker; and George W., are the only surviving 
children. Mrs. David Frank died in Jack- 
son township. Mr. Frank's second wife was 
Gertrude Kider, a native of Jackson town- 
ship, by whom he has two children : Andrew 
J', and Joseph. Mr. Frank died in Jack- 
son township in 1873, and his wife, Mrs. 
Gertrude Frank, in 1889, also their son 
Joseph in 1889. They were members of the 
Reformed church. Mr. Frank was a Dem- 
ocrat. 

George W. Frank attended the common 
schools of Jackson township. He remained 
at home on the farm, and managed the 
work of farming, distilling, etc., until he was 
twenty-five years of age. He farmed as a 
tenant until he was thirty-eight years of age, 
when he bought a farm of seventy-live acres, 
on which he erected a dwelling and a ham. 



and made other improvements, and engaged 
in farming and stock raising. He was mar- 
ried, in Jackson township, in 1801, to Lydia, 
daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Hoffman) 
Hoffman, born in Halifax township, in 1842. 
They have three children : Sarah, wife of 
George Matter, of Steelton ; Lizzie, a dress 
maker, residing at home, and Ida M., a 
teacher. Mr. Frank is a Democrat and has 
served three terms as school director and one 
term as supervisor. He is a member of the 
Reformed church, has been a deacon, and is 
an elder in that church. 

Ida M. Frank, daughter of George W. 
Frank, attended the district schools, and 
completed her education at the Millersburg 
high school, where she graduated in 1893, 
in a class of ten, and at Shippensburg State 
Normal School, in 1894, in a class of one 
hundred and one members. While attending 
the Normal School at Shippensburg, she took 
a special course in painting (pastel and 
water colors), and also in elocution. She has 
recited at a number of different places, en- 
tertainments, societies, local institutes, etc. 
She also took a partial course in the 
Bible studies for " The Chautauqua Normal 
Union." She is now (July, '96) taking a 
course with the American Correspondence 
Normal, Danville, N. Y. Since graduation 
she taught an ungraded school two succes- 
sive terms, in Jackson township. She is 
elected teacher of the primary school at Hal- 
ifax for the coming year. She received her 
second diploma from Shippensburg Normal 
School, June 30, 1S96, entitling her to the 
degree M. E., and is now aspiring for some 
special course at a college. She is a young 
lady of culture and refinement, and is classed 
among the best educated teachers of the 
county. Besides her professional ability, 
Miss Frank possesses the charm of a pleas- 
ing personality and a manner expressive of 
kindness. 



McGaxn, Capt. John K., retired farmer 
and real estate dealer, was born in Philadel- 
phia, Pa., May 28, 1835. Edward Mcthmn, 
his grandfather, was bom and passed his 
life in Ireland ; he was a wool carder and 
spinner. Edward McGann, Jr.. father of 
Captain McGann, was born in Kildare 
county, Ireland. lie received his education 
in his native county, and worked in the 
woolen mill with his father until he became 
of age. when he left Ireland for America. 
He made the voyage in a sailing vessel, ac- 



750 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



companied by his young wife. They landed 
at Philadelphia, where he found work at his 
trade for one year. At the end of the year 
Mr. McGann removed to Lancaster county, 
Pa., and for fourteen years was employed in 
the woolen mills of N. K. Zook. He next 
removed to Dauphin county, locating in 
Lykens Valley, where for four years he car- 
ried on the business of carding and weaving 
on his own account. He then removed to 
Armstrong Valley with his family, and 
worked for six months at his trade as a 
journeyman for his former employer, at Lan- 
caster county, and he finally settled at Har- 
risburg, where he died March 3, 1870. His 
wife, Bridget (Kelly) McGann, died in the 
same city, about 1884. They were married 
in Ireland. They had seven children : 
John K. ; Catherine, wife of C. McCarty, of 
Harrisburg ; William C, of Harrisburg, in 
the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company; Susan, wife of John O'Leary, 
hotel keeper in Harrisburg ; James, deceased ; 
Mary, widow of Alexander Boyle, Harris- 
burg; and Margaret A., deceased. Mr. Mc- 
Gann was a Democrat, a prominent man, 
and quite popular. 

John K. McGann attended the public 
schools of Lancaster county, and also the 
Academy at Strasburg. In his younger days 
he worked in the mills with his father. Af- 
ter the removal of the family to Lykens Val- 
ley, he worked four years as a farm hand 
among the neighboring farmers. Then for 
two years and six months he was clerk and 
teamster for Jacob Buch, in Lykens Valley, 
and subsequently drove team for Mr. Buch 
to and from Pottersville. For several years 
after this Mr. McGann was engaged in 
huckstering. He taught school in Miller's 
school house four months, after which he 
was for seven months clerk in a store in 
Mahantango Valley, then taught again four 
months in Jackson township. Then he was 
clerk for six months in Powell's Valley, then 
taught four months at Jacksonville. In 
1858 Mr. McGann spent nine months in 
Harrisburg, in the employ of the Northern 
Central Railway Company, as clerk; he then 
taught still another four months at Fisher- 
ville. He had fourteen acres of land which 
he farmed between other engagements. 

On August 19, 1862, Mr. McGann enlisted 
in company H, One Hundred and Thirtieth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, as first 
lieutenant, under Captain Hoofacker and Col. 
H. J. Zinn. The Captain being on sick 



leave, Lieutenant McGann commanded the 
company. He participated in the battles of 
South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, 
and Chancellorsville. Being wounded at 
Fredericksburg, he was for a few days in the 
field hospital. He was discharged from the 
service May 20, 1862, and returned home. 
He continued teaching school, cultivating 
his farm, and working for other farmers. 
Upon the ordering of the draft, February 24, 
1864, Captain McGann formed a company of 
forty-two men and joined company E, Ninth 
Pennsylvania cavalry. He was promised 
the command of the compan}', but failed to 
obtain it. He fought in the battle of Cripple 
Creek, and throughout the campaign of Gen- 
eral Sherman. On October 16, 1864, he was 
made private secretary of General Kilpatrick, 
with whom he remained until the close of 
the war. He received his discharge at Lex- 
inton, N. C, July 20, 1865. After returning 
home, Captain McGann continued teaching 
and farming. He bought more land, and 
has now eighty-five acres, which he has 
highly improved. He retired from active 
farming, and since 1876 has dealt in real 
estate, settled up estates, etc. 

Captain McGann was married, in Jackson 
township, in 1857, to Miss Elspy, daughter 
of Colonel G. and May (Zimmerman) Fetter- 
hoff, born in Jackson township, April 28, 
1835. They have three children : Isaac H., 
Lutheran pastor, of Union county, Pa., was 
educated at the State Normal School, at Mil- 
lersville, and the Missionary Institute, in 
Snyder county; was ordained to the ministry 
in 1885; married Annie Mattis, and has three 
children: Maud, Laura and Evaline; Ellen, 
married, in 1882, to James F. Gerberich, 
who was born in Jackson township ; son of 
Amos and Julia A. (Keiter) Gerberich, at- 
tended school in Jackson township, was six 
years turnkey at Harrisburg lock-up, farms 
the homestead of his wife's father, has three 
children: J. D. Cameron, Annie Gertrude 
and Esther ; Annie E., teacher in Jackson 
township, educated in the high school in 
Harrisburg, and graduate of Berrysburg, and 
Millersville State Normal School, has been 
teaching three years. 

Captain McGann is a Republican. He 
was clerk in the county commissioners' 
office, county auditor, assessor and tax col- 
lector; he was also for several years justice 
of the peace. He was captain of a volunteer 
company formed before the Civil war. He 
is a member, and is chaplain, and has been 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



751 



commander of R. B. Miller Post, No. 392, G. 
A. It. He is one of the most widely known 
and most popular men of the county. He 
is esteemed for his virtues, and beloved for 
his good will and kindness to all. 



Shoop, Daniel, retired farmer, was born in 
Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
October 2, 1828. His father, Daniel Shoop, 
Sr., was born in Dauphin county, and was a 
farmer and stockman in Jackson township. 
He married Susan Albright, a native of Dau- 
phin county. They had eight children : 
Henry, deceased; Catherine, deceased, wife 
of Jonas Poole; Elizabeth, deceased, wife of 
Leonard Bender; Frederick, deceased; 
Lydia, wife of John Warfield ; Sarah, de- 
ceased, wife of Christian Dravids; Daniel, 
and Clinton, of Harrisburg. Mr. Shoop and 
his wife were members of the Lutheran 
church. They died in Jackson township. 
They were good people, and highly respected. 

Daniel Shoop, Jr., attended the common 
school in the winter and worked on the farm 
for his father in the summer until he was 
fourteen years old, when his father died. 
He remained on the homestead one year 
longer, when it was sold to pay the debts of 
his father's estate. Then he had to go into 
the world and look out for himself. He 
worked as a farm hand, and at various em- 
ployments, receiving small wages for hard 
labor. At twenty-three years of age he went 
to Jacksonville to learn shoemaking. He 
worked there one year and then removed to 
a small place of sixteen acres, where he now 
lives. This place he improved and culti- 
vated and made his home. He worked at 
his trade and tilled his little farm for ten 
years. By industry and frugal living he 
prospered, and at the end of ten years was 
able to buy thirty-five acres more. By con- 
tinuing to work and to save, he added more 
land from time to time, and is now in pos- 
session of two hundred and sixty acres of 
good, arable land, all of which is fully culti- 
vated and improved. Mr. Shoop has built 
several dwelling houses and barns and other 
farm structures on his different farms which 
his sons are cultivating. He built a fine 
house for himself, where he and his wife are 
now living retired from active business. 

Daniel Shoop was married in Jackson 
township, June 5, 1852, to a native of that 
township, Catherine, daughter of John, and 
sister of George \V. D. Euders, a sketch 
of whom appears in this volume. They had 



eight children : Mary, deceased ; Aaron, 
farmer in Lykens Valley, married Lydia 
Bechtel, has four children ; Nathan, farmer, 
in Ohio, married Sallie Becket ; Henry, 
farmer in Powell's Valley, married Martha 
Hoover, has one child ; Emanuel, deceased ; 
Edward 0., carpenter, married Susan Eu- 
ders; Curtin, miner at Minersville, Pa., and 
John, farmer, married Mary Miller, and has 
four children. Mrs. Catherine Shoop died 
in Jackson township, in July, 1887. On 
June 18, 1881, Mr. Shoop married Mary M. 
Enders, a sister of his first wife, and widow 
of Aaron Sweigard. Of this mariage there 
is no issue. 

Mrs. Shoop is a daughter of John Enders, 
one of the oldest farmers of Jackson town- 
ship. Her first husband, Aaron Sweigard, 
was a farmer and stockman in the same 
township. They had five children : Annie 
S., wife of Lewis Ziegler; Elizabeth and 
Charles, deceased ; Aaron, farming out West, 
and Catherine, deceased. Mr. Sweigard 
died in Jackson township in 1866. Mr. 
Shoop is a Democrat. He has never held 
any office in the township. He is a member 
and a trustee of the United Brethren church. 
He has been a diligent worker from boy- 
hood, and a wise manager. His success 
demonstrates his ability. He is honored in 
the community. 



Enders, Henry, retired farmer,was born 
in Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 26, 1828. He is a son of John 
Enders, and a brother of George W. Enders, 
whose sketch appears elsewhere in this book. 
He attended school in his native township 
during the winter, and worked on his father's 
farm in summer; he remained on the home- 
stead until he was twenty-two. He then re- 
ceived from his father seventy-eight acres of 
land, on which was built a house and barn, 
and made all improvements needful for a 
good stock farm. He has added to his land 
until he has now one hundred and fifty 
acres, well improved and cultivated. In 
1891 Mr. Enders relinquished farming, re- 
moved to Jacksonville, and bought a dwell- 
ing, which lie remodeled and improved at a 
cost of §2,600. In this comfortable and 
beautiful home he and his faithful wife reside, 
free from the burdens and cares of busi- 
ness, and quietly enjoying the fruits of their 
labor and prudent management in earlier 
life. 

Henry Enders was married, in Jackson 



752 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



township, in 1856, to Susan, daughter of 
Peter and Eva (Mitzer) Sweigert, born in 
Powell's Valley in 1834. They have these 
children: Ellen M., deceased, wife of James 
Miller; Oliver T., farmer in Jackson town- 
ship, married Mary Horsinger, has one child, 
Webster ; Charles R., farmer, Lykens Valley ; 
Ira A., farms the homestead, married Alice 
Warfield ; Lester Alice, wife of C. Redinger, 
fanner, Jackson township ; Selina, and one 
infant, deceased. Mr. Enders is a Democrat, 
and attends the United Brethren church. 
He possesses those qualities of head and 
heart which constitute a good man, and ren- 
der him successful and popular. 



Endees, Samuel, deceased, was born in 
Jackson township, Dauphin countv, Pa., Oc- 
tober 16, 1816, and died February" 23, 1896; 
son of Conrad and Elizabeth (Whitman) En- 
ders. His father, Conrad Enders, was the 
grandfather of G. W. D. Enders, whose sketch 
appears elsewhere in this volume. 

Samuel Enders received his education in 
the public and private schools of his town- 
ship. He worked on the farm with his 
father until he was twenty-three, when his 
father gave him fifty acres of land on which 
the only improvements were a log house and 
a barn. Here he and his wife began life, 
young, strong, and ambitious, with will and 
courage to meet and overcome all obstacles. 
The old log house soon gave place to a fine 
frame dwelling, and a new barn and other 
needed improvements were added. Pros- 
perity attended their unremitting efforts, and 
their resources were husbanded by frugality 
and economy. Additions were made to their 
land, and the farm grew in productiveness 
under their skillful tillage. The final result 
was a farm of one hundred acres, with first- 
class improvements, constituting a home and 
a business among the best in the com- 
munity. Stock raising and the raising of 
market produce were Mr. Enders' specialties. 

Samuel Enders was married, in Harris- 
burg, February, 1839, to Leah Etter, born in 
York county, Pa., in 1820; daughter of 
George and Kate (Fackler) Etter, both na- 
tives of York county, but residents of Dau- 
phin county at the time of their death. Mr. 
and Mrs. Enders had seven children : Isa- 
bella, wife of Daniel Wert ; Aaron, farmer in 
Kansas, married Amanda Miller, had three 
children ; Rebecca,wife of A. Zimmerman, had 
one child ; James, merchant at Ashland, Pa., 
married Susan Yeager, had six children ; 



Louisa, deceased, wife of Daniel Bowman, had 
five children ; Charles W., lumber manu- 
facturer, at Elizabethville, married Phoebe 
Buffington, has four children ; Ann J., wife 
of Dr. Levi Enders, of Williamstown, Pa. 
Mr. Enders was a Democrat and attended the 
United Brethren church. Until the death 
of Mr. Enders he and his wife had the satis- 
faction of looking back over fifty-seven years 
of their united labors, sorrows and joys. 
Their comfortable situation, in a good home, 
with a competence for all their needs, among 
their children and their children's children, 
and hosts of friends, was a lot as happy as 
any that Heaven could bestow upon mortals. 



Strayer, Valentine, farmer and stock- 
man, was born in Lebanon county, Pa., Oc- 
tober 27, 1827. His grandfather, Mathias 
Strayer, came from Wittenberg, Germany, 
when a youth. His father, Valentine 
Strayer, was a native of Lebanon county. 
He was a farmer; in his younger days he 
was a German school teacher. He farmed 
in Lebanon county, also in Halifax, Lykens, 
Washington and Jackson townships.in Dau- 
phin county. He owned a small farm near 
the town of Gratz, where he died. He mar- 
ried Catherine Bealy, and they had these 
children : John, deceased, farmer in Iowa ; 
Elizabeth, deceased, wife of Jonas Matter, of 
Ohio ; Nancy, deceased, wife of George 
Doebler, school teacher, of Ohio ; Catherine, 
wife of Andrew Sheets, of Iowa; Daniel, de- 
ceased, farmer, of Gratz ; Lafayette, farmer, 
Jackson township ; George, farmer, Iowa ; 
Valentine ; Lucinda, deceased, wife of Jonas 
Kiser; Mary, and one that died in infancy. 
The mother also died at Gratz. Mr. Strayer 
was a member and a deacon of the Lutheran 
church. He was formerly a Whig, and af- 
terwards became a Republican. 

Valentine Strayer, the son, attended the 
public schools of his native township, and 
worked with his father on farms in various 
parts of the county. When he was twenty- 
two years old he rented a farm of one hun- 
dred and seventy acres in Halifax township, 
which he worked for four years. He also 
cultivated another farm in the same town- 
ship for one year, after which he removed to 
Jackson township and bought the farm 
which he now owns, and on which he built 
a dwelling and a barn, and made other im- 
provements. He was for twenty years en- 
gaged in raising stock and attending the 
markets of Lykens. His industry, enter- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



753 



prise, and good management secured the 
success of his operations. 

Mr. Strayer was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, November 6, 1850, to Christiana Straw, 
born in Schuylkill county. Pa., March 21, 
1824; daughter of Benjamin and M.Eliza- 
beth (Grimm) Straw, natives of Schuylkill 
county, but residents of Jackson township 
when the}- died. Mr. and Mrs. Strayer 
have no children. Mr. Strayer is a Repub- 
lican and lias been tax collector for two 
terms, and inspector of elections. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church. Mr. and 
Mrs. Strayer are among those who were wise 
in youth and prepared for age and ease. 
They have been industrious, have lived 
carefully, and can now enjoy the comforts of 
life. They are worthy people, and are hon- 
ored in the community. 



Frank, Andrew P., farmer, Elizabeth- 
ville P. 0., was born in Jackson township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., September 5, 1847 ; 
son of Daniel and Gertrude (Keiter) Frank, 
of that township, He attended the public 
schools and worked on the farm at home 
until he became of age, when he bought and 
improved sixty acres of land, on which he 
erected buildings and made other improve- 
ments at a cost of §3,500. He was married, 
in Washington township, January 26, 1878, 
to Catherine Knerr, born in Mifflin township, 
July 17, 1834; daughter of Daniel and Mary 
Matter Knerr, of that township. Their chil- 
dren are : Bertha J., born November 29, 1884 ; 
Mabel M., born July 17, 1887 ; and Henry 
D., born May 23, 1893. In his political 
views Mr. Frank is a Democrat. He and 
his family are members of the Lutheran 
church, in which he is a Sunday-school 
teacher. He is a member of the Knights 
of Pvthias. 



Fetterhoff, Clarence, farmer, Enders, 
Pa., was born in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., September 6, 1862. The grand- 
father was Col. George Fetterhoff. Philip, 
the father, was born in the same township, 
October 3, 1825. He has spent his life in 
farming and raising stock, in the Armstrong 
Valley, and is now living retired from active 
pursuits, at Fisherville, Pa. He married 
Sarah Sweyard, born in Powell's Valley, and 
they have four children: George, hotel 
keeper, at Halifax ; Isaac, farmer; Clarence, 
and Margaret, who died young. The father 
is a Democrat in politics, and he and his wife 



are members of the Lutheran church. They 
are living quietly and comfortably at Fish- 
erville, enjoying the fruits of their hard la- 
bor in earlier life. 

Clarence acquired his education in the 
common schools of his native township, and 
has always remained on the homestead, 
which he took charge of when his father re- 
tired. He was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, in August, 1884, to Sadie Rutter, born 
in Halifax township, September 5, 1864 ; 
daughter of Uriah and Sarah (Ryan) Rutter, 
farmer in Halifax township. Their chil- 
dren are: Nora, born February 28, 1886; 
Jennie, born October 5, 1889; and Mary, 
born September 24, 1890. Mr. Fetterhoff 
votes with the Democrats, and has been 
auditor for three years. He is a member of 
the Lutheran church. 



Miller, Michael H., farmer, Enders, Pa., 
was born in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., June 15, 1836. He attended the 
Miller school and worked on the farm with 
his father until he was twenty-four years of 
age. He then rented a farm of one hundred 
and forty-four acres for four years, after 
which he returned to the homestead and 
worked it until his father's death, when he 
inherited two hundred and two acres of land, 
on which he erected a fine brick house costing 
§3,000, a barn and other needful buildings. 
He was married, in Jackson township, 
in 1S60, to Catherine Snyder, of that town- 
ship, born in 1840; daughter of Dauiel 
and Elizabeth Snyder. Their children 
are: Arabella J., Mrs. William Warfield, 
Jackson township, and she has six chil- 
dren ; Ellen A., Mrs. Henry A. Warner, 
Jackson township ; Ira O., farmer, married 
Julia A. Glaze, and they have four chil- 
dren; Harvey O., Washington township, 
married Agnes W. Boyer, and they have two 
children ; Jennie, wife of Harry H. Snyder, 
and they have one child ; Edwin E. and 
Lizzie I., at home; Elmer O., and Emma M., 
died young. Mr. Miller is a Democrat and 
has held several township offices. In relig- 
ious faith he is a Lutheran of the old school, 
and is a deacon in the church, and is also a 
member of the I. O. O. F. 



WHITMAN, William, farmer, Fisherville, 
Jackson township, was horn in Jackson 
township, Dauphin county, July 3. L823. 
Bartholomew Whitman, the grandfather, 
was born in Berks county, and removed to 



754 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Dauphin county with his family, and located 
in Lykens Valley, afterwards removing to 
Jackson township, where he and his wife 
died. John, the father, was also born in 
Berks county, and was brought by his 
parents to Dauphin county when a child, 
where he attended the schools of Jackson 
township, and from early boyhood worked 
on the farm with his father. He also owned 
and operated a farm of two hundred and 
fifty acres in Armstrong Valley, and was ex- 
tensively engaged in raising stock. He mar- 
ried Catherine Maisner, born in Washing- 
ton township in 1806. Their children are: 
Mary, Daniel, William, Elizabeth, Catherine 
A., Sarah, deceased, John, deceased, La- 
vina, and Rebecca, died young. The father 
was once a Democrat, but became a Repub- 
lican, and served as super visor for three 
years. He and his wife were members of 
the Lutheran church, in which he served as 
a deacon. He died April 14. 1884, in Jack- 
son township, and his wife died in the fall 
of 1886, in Powell's Valley. 

William attended the schools in Jackson 
township in the winter months, and worked 
on the farm with his father until he was 
twen ty -three years of age. He then learned 
the trade of carpenter and joiner, at which 
he worked for several years, taking contracts. 
He built several houses and barns in Jack- 
son township. He bought thirty-three acres 
of land from his father on which he built a 
dwelling house and barn. After his father's 
death he got the homestead of ninety acres, 
where he has his present residence. For a 
timber supply he bought mountain land, 
and has made important improvements on 
the homestead. In September, 1895, his barn 
was struck by lightning, and with its contents 
entirely consumed by fire, entailing a loss on 
building and crops of $3,000. He is now 
building a new barn. He was married, 
April, 1857, to Susanna Enders.born in Jack- 
son township, December 25,1835; daughter 
of Philip and sister of George W. Enders. 
Their children are: Isaac, William, Bertha, 
and Ellen, died in infancy. Mr. Whitman 
enlisted at Harrisburg, September, 1864, in 
company A, Two Hundred and Tenth regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and partici- 
pated in the battles of Gravel Run, Hatch's 
Run, Five Forks, and was at Lee's surrender. 
He was discharged May 3, 1865, at Arlington 
Heights, and waspresentatthegrand reunion 
in Washington. He was not sick a single day 
while in the service, and receives no pension. 



In his political views he is a Republican, 
and served as supervisor, tax collector and 
assessor, one term each. His religious faith 
and fellowship are with the Lutherans, and 
he is a deacon in the church and a Sunday- 
school teacher. 



Zeirn, Charles, deceased, was one of the 
most successful farmers in Jackson town- 
ship. He was born in Baden, Germany, De- 
cember 4, 1826, and when quite young came 
to this country with his parents and five 
other children. The father was a tailor by 
trade. Charles found employment in a store 
at Palmyra, Pa., as a clerk, where he spent 
ten years, and then removed to Lykens, 
where he had a similar position with Martin 
Bloom. He also worked in the coal mines 
for fourteen years. In 1870 he came to Arm 
strong Valley and bought a farm of one hun- 
dred and ten acres in Jackson township, on 
which he made substantial improvements, 
and which he cultivated up to the time of 
his death, Januan' 23, 1895. He was mar- 
ried, at Harrisburg, in March, 1863, to Nancy 
Snavely, born in Lebanon county, Septem- 
ber 28,1828; daughter of William and Annie 
(Long) Snavely. Their children are: Mary, 
wife of Frank Buch, moulder, Harrisburg; 
Margaret, Mrs. Julius Bonner, Harrisburg; 
Leah, wife of Fred. Brown, Harrisburg. He 
was a Democrat in politics and a Catholic in 
religious faith and fellowship. His widow 
survives and resides on the farm in Jackson 
township. 



JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 



Sheetz, John, farmer and postmaster of 
Carsonville, Pa., was born in Jefferson town- 
ship, now Wayne township, November 26, 
1842. His grandfather, John Sheetz, was a 
native of Dauphin county, Pa., and a farmer. 
William J. Sheetz, father of the younger 
John Sheetz, was born in Dauphin county, 
November 20, 1805. He grew up on the 
farm, and when a young man came to Jef- 
ferson township, now Wayne, where he 
bought two hundred acres of land, on which 
he built a brick dwelling and barn, and 
made other improvements, and carried on 
farming and stock raising. He was enter- 
prising and prosperous. Mr. Sheetz was 
married to Barbara, daughter of Christian 
and Margaret Zimmerman, of Jackson town- 
ship, born June 3, 1811. Their children are: 





/l£sAi*-J\ J&t^f-' 



7T£. 




-Jv&/? 





DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



757 



Josiah, born March 22, 1831, farmer, of 
Wayne township ; George, September 3, 
1832, farmer, Wayne township ; Mary B., 
May 7, 1831, wife of James Sweigert, Jack- 
son township; Samuel B., July 20, 1836, 
farmer, Wayne township; Julia A.. April 8, 
1839, wife of James Huffman, Jackson town- 
ship; Elizabeth, April 6. 1841, widow of 
Henry E. Welker, Wayne township; John ; 
Washington, June 15, 1845, resides on the 
homestead in Wayne township ; William, 
October 7, 1847, resides in Jefferson town- 
ship; Margaret, October 20, 1849; Sarah M., 
deceased, born September 8, 1852, wife of 
Emanuel Ludwig, merchant, Penbrook, Pa.; 
Catherine E., March 24, 1855, wife of Leon- 
ard Hawk, farmer, Wayne township. Mr. 
Sheetz was a Democrat. The family were 
members of the Lutheran church. He died 
in Wayne township, and Mrs. Sheetz in 
Jackson township. 

John Sheetz attended school in Wayne 
township during the winter months, work- 
ing on the farm during the summer. He 
remained on the home farm until he was 
twenty-one, at which time he had accumu- 
lated over one thousand dollars. With sev- 
eral other young men he went into the oil 
business asa speculation, putting down wells, 
etc., which they soon found to be unprofit- 
able. Having lost his one thousand dollars 
he returned to his old neighborhood to 
begin life anew. With such help us he could 
get from his father and father-in-law, Mr. 
Sheetz bought fifty-seven acres of land in 
Jefferson township, which he improved and 
farmed until 1886. At the same time he 
carried on the manufacture of lumber with 
fair success. 

In 1886 Mr. Sheetz went into a general 
mercantile business in Carson ville, which he 
conducted eight years with very satisfactory 
profits. During this time he also operated 
a saw mill and manufactured and dealt in 
lumber. In 1S94 he sold his store and mill 
and bought a farm of one hundred and fif- 
teen acres near Carsonville, on which he 
made improvements costing §2,000, and 
engaged in farming and stock raising. In 
addition to this homestead he owns one hun- 
dred and twenty-six acres of land in Wayne 
and Jefferson townships and eleven hundred 
acres of timber land in Centre county, on 
which there is a saw mill, with a factory and 
other improvements. 

Mr. Sheetz was married, in Jefferson town- 
ship, in November, 1804, to Sarah J. Parks, 
49 



born in Jefferson township, January 18, 
1847; daughter of George Parks, farmer and 
lumberman and merchant of that township. 
The3' had ten children: Margaret, born 
April 14, 1800, died April 18, 1877; Emma 
E., born September 10, 1807, wife of Alfred 
Taylor, Chicago, 111.; Carson A.; William IL, 
born February 20, 1871 ; George W.; Mary 
A.; John E., born November 2, 1870, died 
November 30, 1879; Thomas R., born July 
10, 1879, at home; Rosella C; and Annie L., 
born August 11, 1884, died September 6, 
1884. 

Mr. Sheetz was postmaster eight years, 
under both of President Cleveland's admin- 
istrations. He was school director for three 
years, and for the same length of time audi- 
tor of Jefferson township. He is a Demo- 
crat. The family are members of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal church. Mr. Sheetz is a 
hard-working, enterprising and prosperous 
man, is widely known and universally pop- 
ular. 

Carson Asbury Sheetz, eldest son of John 
and Sarah Jane Sheetz, was born June 29, 
1809, at Carsonville, Dauphin county, Pa. 
He attended country schools during the 
winter and worked on the farm summers. 
At the age of fourteen attended spring and 
fall terms at Berrysburg Seminary. In the 
spring of 1889 attended Elizabethville Sem- 
inary under Prof. D. G. Lubold ; taught 
school that winter at Rank's school house, 
Jefferson township. Left the following spring, 
1890, for Quincy, III. Took full course of 
bookkeeping and accountant there at Gem 
City Business College. The fall of 1890 left 
Quincy for Chicago. Was cashier for H. M. 
Kinsley, Chicago, until July, 1891; later 
was employed as invoice clerk at Mandel 
Bros, dry goods store, Chicago. Shortly 
afterwards was taken down with an attack 
of rheumatism, and immediately went back 
home. Instead of returning to Chicago as 
was intended, was persuaded to teach the 
Carsonville school that winter. In the 
spring of 1892 attended Fredericksburg 
Seminary, one term, leaving home July 22, 
same year, for Denver, ('oh>. At Den- 
ver took the full course of stenography al 
Woodworth's Shorthand College. January 
1, 1893, accepted a position as stenographer 
with Hon. F. W. Owers, district judge of the 
fifth Judicial District of Colorado, al Lead- 
ville. Lefl Leadville, July, 1894, for Crip- 
ple Creek, Colo. Accepted a position there 
as stenographer with C. S. Wilson, attorney 



758 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



for W. S. Stratton, owner of the Independ- 
ence mine. Remained in the employ of C. 
S. Wilson until February, 1895, when the 
position as head bookkeeper and settlement 
clerk for the Lawrence Gold Extraction Com- 
pany, Cripple Creek district, was tendered 
him, which he accepted. Remained with the 
Lawrence Company in the above capacity 
until the first of the year, the entire plant 
being destroyed" by fire December 23, 1895. 
Immediately after the destruction of the 
Lawrence Works a proposition was made 
him by J. H. Willard & Co., an old and 
established real estate firm, to enter into 
equal partnership with them, which was 
accepted January 1, 1896. The firm name 
was changed from J. H. Willard & Co. 
to the Willard Investment Company, with 
Mr. Sheetz as secretary and treasurer of the 
new corporation ; their principal office being 
at Victor, Colo., which is situated in the 
very center of the Cripple Creek gold mining 
district. 

William H. Sheetz, second son of John 
Sheetz, in February, 1888, went to Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y., where he took a course and 
graduated in the school of stenography of 
Eastman College; thence to New York, where 
for five months he was stenographer in the 
Merchants' Exchange National Bank ; thence 
to Suffolk, Va., where he was stenographer and 
clerk in a wholesale feed and coal house for 
seven months ; thence home to Carsonville, 
where in the winter of 1889-90 he taught 
school ; in April, 1890, he went to Valparaiso, 
Ind., where he attended the Normal School 
four months ; thence to Denver, Colo., 
where he worked as stenographer with the 
Denver Fire Insurance Company; thence to 
Pueblo, Colo., where he was seven months 
as stenographer in the law office of Gerry & 
Campbell; thence, in 1891, to Aspen, Colo., 
where he worked in the law office of 
L. S. Smith in the same capacity for two 
years ; thence to Cripple Creek, Colo., where 
he was stenographer in a law office 
for two years; and on January 1, 1895, 
came to Leadville, Colo., where he now is of- 
ficial stenographer of the District Court of 
the Fifth Judicial District of the State of 
Colorado. While in the several law offices, 
he has spent all his leisure hours at reading 
law. He was twenty-five years of age on 
February 20 last, and is single. 

The three children, George W., Mary A. 
and Rosella C. are living in Carlisle, Pa. 
George W. was born July 20, 1872, at Car- 



sonville, and resided on the farm with his 
parents until the age of seventeen, when he 
taught school in Rush township for a year. 
During the winters of 1890 and 1891 he 
taught in Jefferson township. In 1892 he 
attended Schuylkill Seminary, and again 
taught the following winter. He is now a 
junior in Dickinson College, having entered 
the Freshman class in 1894. During his 
first year at Dickinson he was awarded the 
first prize for " Dramatic Declamation," an 
honor which was well deserved, as Mr. 
Sheetz possesses rare ability, and never fails 
to entertain the many audiences before 
which he recites. Mary A. Sheetz was born 
December 8, 1873, and attended the home 
school nine years, the Elizabethville Semi- 
nary one term and the Schuylkill Seminary 
one term. The two succeeding years were 
spent at Millersburg high school, from which 
she graduated in 1893. The following win- 
ter she taught the home school, and in 1894 
entered Metzger College, Carlisle, as a stu- 
dent of art and music, but at present is con- 
tinuing music only. Rosella C. Sheetz was 
born November 2, 1882, at Carsonville. 
After living with her parents up to the age 
of twelve she moved to Carlisle with her 
brother George W. and sister Mary A., 
where she is at present attending the pub- 
lic schools. 



Row, Jonas, farmer and justice of the 
peace, was born in Mifflin township, now 
Washington township, Dauphin countv, Pa., 
May 11, 1839. His grandfather, William 
Row, was of English descent, and was a car- 
penter and farmer. He married Barbara 
Rudy, also of English extraction. His son, 
Jacob Row, father of Jonas Row, was born in 
Lykens Valley, in 1812. He owned, improved 
and worked a farm of ninety acres in Wash- 
ington township in connection with which 
he carried on a butchering business, also a 
store at Matterstown. He married Susan 
Matter, born in Mifflin township. They had 
nine children : Jonas ; Catherine, widow of 
Daniel Carle ; Susanna, wife of J. Matter, of 
Harrisburg; Melinda, widow of Samuel Kop- 
penberger; Amanda, wife of Henry Bechtel, 
plasterer, Elizabethville; Sarah, wife of John 
Lebo, Schuylkill county; Adam, deceased ; 
Samuel, of Schuylkill county; Isaac, resides 
on homestead, at Matterstown. Mr. Row 
first held Democratic views in politics, but 
changed for a time to the Republican party, 
and finally returned to the Democratic party. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



759 



He has served as supervisor of roads, tax 
collector, and in other offices. He died in 
Schuylkill county at the age of eighty-two. 
Mr. Row was well known and highly re- 
spected. He was comfortably cared for in 
his declining years by his faithful son, Jonas. 
He was a member of the old school Lutheran 
church, in which he was deacon and trus- 
tee, also Sunday-school superintendent and 
teacher. Mrs. Row died in Washington 
township. 

Jonas Row attended the schools of Wash- 
ington township in the winter, and worked 
with his father in the various departments of 
his business until he was twenty-one years 
of age. On reaching his majority he was 
employed by his father on wages. He worked 
two years on the homestead farm, at Matters- 
town, and two years in Lykens Valley, at 
butchering, etc. 

In 1SG3 Mr. Row enlisted, at Harrisburg, 
in the One Hundred and Twenty-seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, under 
Colonel Jennings and Captain Bell. He par- 
ticipated in the battle of Gettysburg, and was 
wounded in the knee, the result of which was 
to lame him for life. He was discharged at 
the end of three months' service, but re-en- 
listed in the fall of 1863, in company F, Six- 
teenth Pennsylvania cavalry, under Colonel 
Robinson and Capt. J. H. Ressler. He was 
at Petersburg five days, and on account of 
braver}- in action was promoted to the rank 
of orderly to General Gregg. Mr. Row was 
at the surrender of General Lee, and was 
mustered out of service in 1865. He returned 
home and engaged in trailing in Lykens 
Valley for two years, after which he bought 
thirty-three acres of land and added twenty- 
two acres more, in Washington township. 
This farm he improved at an expense of 
§5,000. But Mr. Row became security for a 
friend, through which he sustained a loss of 
§4,000, and was forced to sell his farm which 
brought only §5,000. In 1800 he removed 
to Jefferson township and purchased eighty 
acres, the buildings on which lie remodeled 
and enlarged, and fitted the place for farm- 
ing and stock raising. 

Mr. Row was married, in Washington 
township, ( )ctober 23, 1 859. to Susan S. Martz, 
born in Upper Paxton township, Septem- 
ber 25, is 15. They have seven children: 
Jacob C., born October 27, 1860, operates in 
mines, Tower City. Schuylkill county, Pa.; 
Theodore and Charles, twins, born Novem- 
ber 9, 1862, deceased ; Ida A., born May 15, 



1864, wife of Henry Harm an, Halifax town- 
ship ; Ira U., born January 11, 1867, deceased; 
Eve Jennie, born January 27, 1868, deceased ; 
Olive O., born April 12, 1869, deceased. Mrs. 
Row died December 28, 1870, in Washington 
township. The second wife of Mr. Row was 
Catherine R., daughter of David Matter, of 
Washington township, born in that township, 
in 1844. They have no children. Mr. Row 
is a Republican, served as supervisor of 
roads for two terms, and justice of the peace 
for two years. He belongs to Heln.er Post, 
G. A. R., at Lykens. 

Mr. and Mrs. Row are members of the 
Lutheran church, in which he has served as 
deacon and in other offices, and is Sunday- 
school superintendent and teacher. Mr. 
Row has led a busy and somewhat eventful 
life. He has met misfortunes with a brave 
and cheerful heart. His wife is a genial 
woman and a true helpmeet. They are sur- 
rounded by friends who honor them for their 
worth. 



Enders, Cornelius, farmer, stockman and 
mail carrier, was born in Jefferson township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., November 12, 1850. 
His father, John Enders, was a son of George 
Enders and brother of Dr. Levi Enders, of 
Williamstown, Pa. He was a farmer and 
married Caroline Paul, and had three chil- 
dren : Cornelius, Emma, who died young, 
and one who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. 
John Enders both died in 1860, when Corne- 
lius was three and a half years old. They 
were membersof the United Brethren church. 
Mr. Enders was a Republican. 

Cornelius Enders, after the loss of his 
parents, was reared by his grandfather. He 
attended the township schools during the 
winter and worked in summer on his grand- 
father's farm, until he was fourteen. For 
four years from that time he was employed 
in the mines. He then came to Jefferson 
township and worked on the farm and in 
saw mills for three years. He next rented a 
farm of one hundred and twenty-live acres 
for one year; then again went to mining in 
Schuylkill county, where he was employed 
in various mines for three years. For the 
two following years he kept a hotel at Dayton. 
Dauphin county, after which he worked six 
years in the Williamstown coal mines. Mr. 
Enders next bought a farm of one hundred 
and three acres in Wayne township, on 
which he buill a barn and made other im- 
provements, but sold the farm in a short 



760 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



time and returned to Jefferson township. 
There he bought another farm of one hun- 
dred and four acres, built a fine barn, re- 
modeled the dwelling and put the place in 
first-class condition. He conducts a business 
of farming, stock raising and manufacturing 
shingles from his timber, which he makes 
profitable. He is industrious and enterpris- 
ing and displays business ability. Mr. Enders 
was married, in Jackson township, in Janu- 
ary, 1877, to Harriet, daughter of Simon and 
Mary (Michael) Smith, born in Jefferson 
township, November 12, 1858. They have 
had six children, of whom three are living: 
Harry, a school teacher, Nora, and Esther. 
Carrie, Floyd, and one infant all died young. 
Mr. Enders is a Republican. He has been 
school director for three years and advocates 
compulsory education and is deeply inter- 
ested in all educational matters. He is a 
member of the United Brethren church. 
Mr. and Mrs. Enders are regarded as among 
the most intelligent and agreeable people of 
the community. 



Etzwiler, William H., blacksmith and 
general iron worker, was born in Jefferson 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., August 28, 
1866. His great-grandfather, Daniel Etz- 
wiler, was killed by the Indians in Lykens 
Valley many years ago. Daniel Etzwiler, 
Jr., grandfather of William H., was a farmer 
and stockman in Lykens Valley, where he 
was born in 1800. He married Christina 
Smith. His son, Michael Etzwiler, father of 
William H, was born at Elizabethville, in 
the Lykens Valley, November 15, 1831. He 
attended school in Washington and Jefferson 
townships, and worked as a farm laborer until 
he was twenty-one years old. He then went 
to Hanover township and served an ap- 
prenticeship at the blacksmith's trade, then 
worked as journeyman, spending in all five 
years there. After that he returned to Jef- 
ferson township, where he passed the re- 
mainder of his life. He worked at his trade 
for thirty-five years and was patronized by 
all the surrounding country. He also culti- 
vated a small farm. 

Michael Etzwiler was married September 
27, 1855, in Jackson township, to Catherine 
Bodner, born in Lykens township, March 
12, 1838; daughter of Jacob and Mary (Sny- 
der) Bodner, of Jackson township. They 
have had nine children : Amanda, born June 



16, 1856, wife of James W. Nelson, farmer 
and dairyman, of Mercer county, Pa.; Re- 
becca J., born February 4, 1858, wife of John 
C. Nelson, farmer, Mercer county ; Christina, 
born July 3, 1860, died August 31, 1860; 
Anna Sophia, born September 16, 1864, died 
August 20, 1866; William H; Nathaniel E., 
born January 3, 1869, carpenter, in Mercer 
county; Jacob F., born July 7, 1871, black- 
smith, with his brother William H; Simon, 
born January 14, 1875, died October 6, 1879, 
and Carrie E., born May 3, 1878, is at home. 
Mr. Etzwiler was first a Democrat, but his 
political views changing in later life, he be- 
came a Republican. He was a justice of the 
peace for twenty -five consecutive years; for 
several years he was a school director. He 
was a member of the Lutheran church, in 
which he was deacon, elder, treasurer and 
trustee, and superintendent of the Sunday- 
school. He died December 14, 1893. He 
was a good man, liked and honored by all 
who knew him. 

William H. Etzwiler attended school in 
Jefferson township and two sessions in Mercer 
county. In the latter county he worked two 
years as dairyman. After this he returned 
to Jefferson township and worked in his 
father's shop. In 1891 his father sold to him 
his interest in the shop and retired from 
business. He has since conducted the busi- 
ness with success. He was married, in Jack- 
son township, August 28, 1891, to Amelia 
Enterline, born in Wayne township, May 10, 
1871. They had four children : Thomas G., 
born October 26, 1891 ; Emma R., July 12, 
1892; Michael J., July 3, 1894, deceased, 
and Gertrude E., September 13, 1895. 

Mr. Etzwiler is a Republican. He is a 
school director, has been delegate to conven- 
tions, and clerk of elections, and has served 
in various township offices. He attends the 
Lutheran church and is a hard-working, up- 
right and intelligent man, enterprising and 
successful in business. He is genial in social 
intercourse and is esteemed for his many 
excellencies of character. 

Jacob F. Etzwiler, brother of William H, 
was married, in Fisherville, December 25, 
1894, to Jennie G. Lehr, daughter of Emanuel 
and Isabella Lehr, of Enterline, Wayne 
township, Dauphin county, and to this union 
has been born one child, Carrie B., born 
June 18, 1895. He is election inspector, a 
Republican in political views, and attends 
the Lutheran church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



761 



Rummi-x, John L., shoemaker and farmer, 
Jefferson township, was horn in Wurtemberg, 
( rermany, December 12, 1822 ; son of George 
and Catherine Rummel, natives of Germany, 
and farmers by occupation, lie received his 
education in the schools of his native land 
and there also learned the trade of shoe- 
maker. In 1839 he came to this country, 
crossing the ocean on the sailing vessel 
" America," and landing at Baltimore after a 
voyage of fifty-six days. He settled at Har- 
risburg, where he worked at his trade for 
three years in the shop of a man named 
Ken tier, after which he worked one year at 
the furnace works at Clarksville, and then 
returned to Harrisburg and resumed work 
with his old employer. He remained here 
for three years, during which time he re- 
ceived an inheritance from Germany of 
§1,100 in money, and with this he bought a 
farm of one hundred and fifty-one acres in 
Jefferson township. This was timber land, 
which he proceeded to clear up, and on 
which he erected two houses and barns and 
other buildings. He also worked at his 
trade and traveled about as a journeyman. 
He was married, in Jefferson township, in 
1844, by Esquire Jacob Davidson, to Mary 
Michael, born in that township August 23, 
1819, and died November 10, 1855. Their 
children are: William, Catherine, Sarah, 
Amanda, Daniel, and John, deceased. Mr. 
Rummel is a liberal in politics, but in Na- 
tional and State matters votes with the Re- 
publican party. He is a member of the 
United Brethren church, but is a warm 
admirer of Martin Luther. Three years ago 
Mr. Rummel was attacked at his home by 
robbers, who supposed he was alone in the 
house. His life and property were saved by 
the heroism of his housekeeper, Miss Lizzie 
C. Warfield, who appeared on the scene at 
the moment the robbers had overpowered 
their victim. She shot one and put the rest 
to flight. In recognition of the fidelity and 
bravery of his deliverer he has provided in his 
will that she shall have a home with him as 
long as she desires to stay and shall have 
§1,000 from his estate. Securities and money 
to the value of §17,000 were concealed in the 
house at the time of the attack. 



the great-grandfather, was a native of Eng- 
land. Samuel, the grandfather, was a na- 
tive of Montgomery county, where he was 
engaged in farming. James B., the father, 
was also born in Montgomery count} 7 , and 
followed farming. He married Sarah A. 
Miller, of Germantown, Montgomery county. 
Their children are: Ann Eliza; Samuel S.; 
Mary A., deceased ; B. Franklin: John M., 
deceased ; Lewis, and Martha, deceased. The 
father was a Democrat. He and his wife 
were members of the Lutheran church. He 
died on the homestead, and his wife died at 
Monterey, Berks county. 

Samuel S. received a fair education in the 
schools of Upper Providence township, Mont- 
gomery county. He learned the milling 
business in Chester county, where he spent 
several years in the grist mill, after which 
he operated a mill in Lykens Valley for 
three years, and also worked on the canal. 
In 1854 he bought a farm in Halifax town- 
ship, which he improved and cultivated for 
three years, and then sold it. He then 
bought one hundred and forty acres of land 
in Jefferson township, which he cleared and 
on which he made valuable improvements, 
and engaged in farming and stock raising. 
He attends the Lykens markets. He was 
married, in Powell's Valley, Halifax town- 
ship, in 1856, to Mary J. Baskin, of that 
township, daughter of Oliver and Eliza 
(Smith) Baskin, the father a well-known 
resident of the county, operating a farm, 
woolen factoiy and saw and grist mill. They 
had two children: Oliver B., manages the 
homestead, in the postoffice at Lykens, 
formerly a bookkeeper at Philadelphia, an 
estimable gentleman, not married, taking 
care of his parents in their old age; Annie 
E., single, at home, a lad}' of culture and re- 
finement, much interested in Sunday-school 
and church work. Mr. Horning is a 
Democrat in politics; was a tax collector 
and school teacher, and always much in- 
terested in educational matters. The family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Horning, Samuel S., farmer, Jefferson 
township, was born in Miltlin township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 1,1820. Michael, 



Shultz, Joshua, shoemaker, Carsonville, 
Pa., was born in Jefferson township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 20, 1859. John," the 
father, was born in Dauphin county and was 
a farmer in Jefferson township, where he 
still resides. He married Mary Snyder, a 
native of Jackson township, and they have 



762 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



nine children : John; George; Annie, Mrs. 
Jacob Book; Joshua; Hannah, Mrs. George 
Shadow; Mary, Mrs. William Orth; Philo- 
mela, Nathaniel, and an infant, deceased. 
The mother died in Jefferson township in 
1870. The father next married Levina Mil- 
ler, widow of George Hall, by whom he had 
four children : Theodore, Carson, David, 
and Morris. He is a Democrat in politics 
and a member of the Lutheran church. 

Joshua attended school in his native town- 
ship, and worked on the farm with his 
father until he became of age. He then 
worked as a farm laborer, and also took up 
the trade of shoemaking, at which he worked 
most of the time, at Carsonville. In 1880 
he was married, in Jefferson township, to 
Katie Eyester, born in Schuylkill county, 
daughter of Daniel Eyester, a farmer of that 
county. Their children are : Emma, Har- 
vey, Edmund, Estella, and William, de- 
ceased. Mr. Shultz is a Democrat in his po- 
litical views, and is a member of the United 
Brethren church. 



LONDONDERRY TOWNSHIP. 



Smith, Simon, farmer, Jefferson township' 
was born in Washington township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 23, 1825 ; son of John 
and Mary (Koppenheffer) Smith. The father 
was a blacksmith by occupation. In politics 
he was a Democrat and in religious views 
and fellowship a Lutheran. He and his wife 
both died in Washington township. Their 
children are Simon, Christina, and Errick, 
deceased. Simon attended the schools of his 
native township and learned the trade of car- 
penter. He followed this occupation for five 
years, after which he removed to Jefferson 
township and bought two hundred and fifty 
acres of land which he improved and culti- 
vated, where he has been for over fifty years 
engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was 
married, in 1851, to Mary Michael, a native 
of Pennsylvania, born in June, 1832. Their 
children are: Rebecca, deceased ; Sarah, de- 
ceased ; Caroline, deceased ; Catherine, Mrs. 
Jacob Hoffman ; Mary T., wife of Peter Hoff- 
man ; Harriet, Mrs. C. Enders ; William M., 
deceased ; John A. .deceased ; Emma, deceased; 
Simon F., deceased ; Thomas L., Henry E., 
and one child died young. Mr. Smith is a 
Republican in politics and was school di- 
rector and assessor, and was elected to the 
office of justice of the peace, but did not 
serve. In religious views and membership 
he is a Presbyterian. 



Brinser, Rev. S. H, Middletown, Pa., 
was born at his present home, February 3, 
1846. The first of the Brinser family to settle 
in Pennsylvania was Christian Brinser, a 
native of Germany, He came to America 
and resided in what was then Lancas- 
ter county. April 10, 1761, he took out 
naturalization papers ; he was one of the 
pioneers of that county, where he lived until 
his death. His son, John Brinser, was born 
in Lancaster county in 1750, and in 1809 
became the owner of the farm now occupied 
by Rev. S. H. Brinser, in Londonderry, town- 
then Derry township. He built the first house 
and improved the farm. He married Miss 
Anna Mary Gish. They belonged to the 
River Brethren. He died in 1820, aged 
seventy j'ears; his wife in May, 1846, aged 
eighty-eight years. His family consisted of 
Mathias ; John, died at the age of ninety- 
four ; Jacob, died at the age of sixty-two ; 
Abraham, died at the age of seventy-five, and 
two daughters, Annie, who married Johannes 
Wilhelm Berg, and Catherine, all of whom 
are deceased. Jacob was for many years a 
brick maker ; John manufactured grain 
cradles, and was well known ; Abraham was 
a farmer. Rev. Mathias Brinser was born 
May 10, 1795, on the present homestead of 
Rev. Solomon H. Brinser, and died in 1889. 
He had the ordinary education, and taught 
some of the early schools. He was a self- 
made man. He succeeded to his father's 
homestead, where he resided until his death. 
He was an active member of the River 
Brethren ; but in 1854 or 1855, he and his 
followers formed the United Zion's Chil- 
dren's church, which now numbers many ad- 
herents in Dauphin, Lancaster and Franklin 
counties. He was a minister in that church, 
and in politics a Republican! He was mar- 
ried, in 1821, to Miss Catherine Heisey, 
daughter of Peter Heisey, of Londonderry 
township. She survives her husband and 
resided with Rev. Solomon Brinser, and is 
now with Rev. Samuel Kieffer. They 
reared nine children : Susan, wife of Joseph 
Martin, of Londonderry township ; Eliza- 
beth, deceased, married Adam Metzger ; 
Catherine, wife of Rev. Samuel Kieffer, of 
Elizabeth town ; Fannie, wife of Isaac Brinser; 
Lydia, wife of Henry B. Kieffer, of Middle- 
town ; Rev. Solomon H; Mary, deceased, 
married Christian Wohlgemuth ; Nancy,, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



763 



married Samuel GrofF; Daniel, who was a 
school teacher, died at the age twenty-one. 

Rev. Solomon H. Brinser received the 
ordinary education in the schools and at 
home, and taught school in Lancaster and 
Dauphin counties. He was married, Sep- 
tember 12, 1867, to Elizabeth, daughter of 
John B. and Catherine (Iiorst) Shearer. In 
186S he bought the farm where he has since 
resided. In 1892 the Pennsylvania railroad 
abandoned the track through his farm. In 
1869 he became identified with the United 
Zion's Children's church, and in 1879 he 
was ordained to the ministry, and has since 
been active in church work. He is Repub- 
lican in politics, and has served in township 
affairs. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' 
Bank of Middle-town. He has nine chil- 
dren living: Harry, graduate of the Kutz- 
town Normal School, teaching in Lancaster 
county, Pa.; John, Mathias, Katie, Annie, 
Martin, Amos, Ira, and Edna Elizabeth, all 
at home; and two dead, Daniel and Ezra. 



The Metzger Family. — The first of the 
Metzger family to settle in Dauphin county 
was Jacob Metzger, a native of Germany, 
who resided first near Middletown, at that 
time in Lancaster county, and afterwards in 
Londonderry township, Dauphin count}', on 
the farms, part of which are now occupied 
by Henry and Adam Metzger. His son 
Jacob was born on the farm now occupied 
by Henry about 1756 or 1757. Jacob Metz- 
ger, Jr., married Margaret Brandt, a native 
of Cumberland county. They were mem- 
bers of the Dunkard church. They reared 
a large family ; their children were: David, 
Eva, Barbara, Joseph, Jacob, Martin, Eliza- 
beth, Esther, and Catherine. 

David Metzger was born in 1779. He re- 
ceived a good education for that period, and 
succeeded to his father's homestead, where 
he lived until his death. He was counted 
one of the foremost farmers of his day. He 
was a very methodical man, and always very 
careful and exact in his business transac- 
tions. He was a prominent member of the 
Dunkard church, and died in 1832. He 
married Miss Eva Rothrock, who died March 
18, 1843. They reared eight children to 
maturity: Jacob, deceased ; Christiana, de- 
ceased, married Joseph Gingrich ; Margaret, 
Mrs. Joseph Gingrich, of Lower Swatara 
township, died April, 1896; Barbara, widow 
of John Meyers, and widow of Frederick 



Beck, of Lancaster county ; John, deceased ; 
Leah, Mrs. John Stout, of Hanover, Pa.; 
Henry, and Adam. 

Henry Metzger was born on his present 
homestead, September 17, 1827. He has 
always been engaged in farming, so that his 
life has not been one of unusual incidents 
and adventures. He has been industrious 
and enterprising in the management of his 
•farm, and has been able to meet all the de- 
mands which the community and his family 
have made upon him. In 1851 he married 
Miss Fannie Miller, daughter of David Mil- 
ler, of Lancaster county, Pa. They have 
four children : David M., farmer, of London- 
derry township, married Barbara Mumma, 
daughter of Christian Mumma; Joseph, of 
Elizabetbtown, Lancaster county, married 
Fanny Keyler ; Amanda, wife of John Rider, 
of Londonderry township: Emma, wife of 
Frank Hoffer, of Mt. Joy, Pa. Mr. Metzger 
is Republican in politics. He and his family 
are prominent in the Mennonite church. 

Adam Metzger, farmer, Middletown P. 0., 
was born on his present farm, January 8, 
1830. He secured only a limited education 
in the schools, being obliged at the age of 
fourteen to leave home and seek a livelihood. 
He has always been engaged in farming. In 
1851 he settled on tke farm known as the 
John Metzger farm, in Londonderry town- 
ship, where he resided for a few years. He 
afterwards purchased the farm he now owns 
and occupies. He has been very successful; 
his farm is universally considered one of the 
finest in the township. Every feature of the 
place displays the work of a master hand. 
Usefulness, comfort and beauty, all the 
essentials and adornments of farm work and 
farm life, are abundantly provided for under 
his skillful management. He has other 
business interests also. He was one of the 
original stockholders of the Middletown Car 
Works. In 1852 Mr. Metzger married Miss 
Elizabeth, daughter of Matthias Brenser, of 
Londonderry township. She died Septem- 
ber 9, 1894. His family consists of four 
children: Millard, of Londonderry township. 
who married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of 
Jacob Meckley, of Elizabethtown. and after 
her death married Miss Elizabeth Bierbower, 
of Dauphin county: Fannie, wife of David 
Ulrich, of Londonderry township; Martin, 
of Londonderry township, married Ruth, 
daughter of Abram Roth; John, of Royal- 
ton, and Solomon, died at the age of twenty- 
three. Mr. Metzger is independent in poli- 



764 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



tics ; he has filled many township offices, and 
served as school director of his township for 
nine consecutive years. 



Ulmer, Jacob, was born in Londonderry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., April 13, 
1826. His early training and education 
were such as the ordinary schools and the 
average families afforded. He spent his 
whole life in the township, being absent 
only for short periods of time when duty and 
business called him elsewhere. He learned 
the trade of a carpenter, and made this his 
chief occupation. In connection with this 
trade he was also, in earlier life, engaged in 
manufacturing grain cradles, but the general 
introduction of farm machinery has placed 
this part of his occupation among the un- 
used arts. Mr. Ulmer was not deaf to the 
call of the President for volunteers during 
the war of the Rebellion. He enlisted in 
1864, and served until the end of the war, 
and was honorabl y discharged. After his dis- 
charge from the army he returned to his home 
and resumed work at the carpenter's trade, 
which he continued to follow until his death, 
which occurred December 5, 1895. In 1848 
he was married to Miss Nancy Espenshade, 
of Swatara township. They had ten chil- 
dren, seven of whom «re living : David, the 
eldest, born- July 18, 1853, Ellen, John, 
George, Adeline, Elizabeth, and Benjamin. 
Mr. Ulmer occupied the residence where he 
died since 1873. Mrs. Ulmer died June 4, 
1887. Mr. Ulmer was a Republican in pol- 
itics, and served as constable of London- 
derry township for nearly thirty-one years. 



Books, Jonas, was born in Lower Swatara 
township. Dauphin county, Pa., January 4, 
1842. He is a son of John and Elizabeth 
(Ulrich) Books. Jacob Books, his grand- 
father, was born in Dauphin county. He 
died at the age of fifty-six years. He was 
the father of six children. John Books, the 
father of Jonas, was born in Derr.y township, 
in 1803. He married Elizabeth Ulrich, by 
whom he had ten children, five died in in- 
fancy, three died at old age, Levi, living near 
Rockville, Pa., and Jonas. The latter was 
reared and educated in his native place. He 
remained in his first home till he was ten 
years of age. In this time he had secured 
such training and preparation for the work 
of life as the common schools afforded, in 
connection with careful home instruction, 
He was then employed with farmers until 



seventeen years old, when he learned a trade, 
that of shoemaking. In 1862 he removed 
with his father's family to Susquehanna 
township, where he remained nine years, in 
various employments. In 1871 he moved 
to Steelton, where he was employed in the 
steel works for ten years. In 1881 he moved 
to Londonderry township, where he has 
since lived. In 1892, desiring to possess a 
a home of his own, he purchased the place 
where he now lives. While he has changed 
his place of residence a number of times, he 
has kept steadily employed and has always 
sought to make every change profitable and 
agreeable. He has everywhere been a useful 
citizen and a good neighbor. He has also 
met with the other ordinary experiences of 
life. He was married, in 1870, to Miss Esther 
Meyers, by whom he had four children : Elias 
W., married Miss Katherine Kinsey, daugh- 
ter of Samuel Kinsey; Mary Ann, Clara 
Esther, and Pierson M. His wife died in 
1884. March 1, 1893, he married, for his 
second wife, Miss Amanda Felker, daughter 
of Joseph Felker, of Londonderry township. 

Holland, Thomas H., was born at Safe 
Harbor, Lancaster county, Pa., January 28, 
1848. He is a son of Michael and Bridget 
(Sullivan) Holland. His father came from 
Lancaster county in 1854 and settled on 
what is known as Furnace Hill, Port Royal, 
now Royalton. He was an iron worker and 
worked for a number of years at the Cameron 
Furnace, of that place. In 1846 he married 
Miss Bridget Sullivan, a native of Ireland. 
They had ten childreu, all of whom are dead 
except two, Thomas, and Elizabeth, born 
November 8, 1858. He died in 1861, and 
his wife March 28, 1887. 

Thomas lived with his parents at Safe 
Harbor until he was six years old, and then 
removed with them, in 1854, to Royalton, 
where he has since resided. He acquired a 
good education in the public schools. He 
was employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company for twelve years. In 1883 he built 
the store in which he has carried on mer- 
cantile business up to the present time. In 
1894 he was appointed postmaster of Royal- 
ton. He has filled the office of burgess and 
assessor of that town. He is treasurer of the 
Londonderry Building and Loan Associa- 
tion. He was married, December 29, 1886, 
to Mary E., daughter of William and Cath- 
erine Zimmerman, of Middletown, by whom 
he has four children : William Michael, born 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



7G5 



March 13, 1S88 ; Francis L., born March 4, 
1890, died July 28, 1890; Catherine B., born 
June 17, 1891, and Carrie Elizabeth, born 
July 4, 1894, all of whom are living. 

Nissley, John H., was born in London- 
derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 10, 1857. He lias spent his whole life 
in his native township. When a boy he was 
sent to the public schools and had the oppor- 
tunity of acquiring all the intellectual train- 
ing and useful information that these schools 
could impart. Like other boys on the farm 
lie was always busy ; but the farm work was 
not permitted to interfere with school work. 
He made good improvement of the time and 
opportunity afforded him for preparing for 
the business of life. When he reached man- 
hood he was ready for its duties and respon- 
sibilities. Whatever may have been his 
desire to go abroad and see other places and 
people he did not grant it to any extent. He 
has found ample room for the exercise of his 
abilities at home. In addition to his over- 
seeing the farm, he is engaged in milling. 
He is one of the solid and useful men of the 
community. He is not prominent in poli- 
tics in the sense of seeking preferment to 
office. He votes with the Republican party ; 
he is a member of the United Brethren 
church. He was married, in 1880, to Miss 
Sarah, daughter of John Garrett, of Dauphin 
county. They have six children : David, 
born February 12,1882; Martin, born August 
25, 1883 ; John, born February 7, 1887 ; Nor- 
man, born February 12, 1S89; Harvey, born 
May 27,1892; and Clayton, born July 25, 
1894. 



Rkider, JacobS., farmer, Middletown, Pa., 
was born in Lancaster county, Pa., July 
13, 1842. He was reared in that county, 
and secured his education in the public 
schools and in the Millersville State Normal 
School. He qualified himself for the pro- 
fession of teaching, and had begun his work, 
and taught two terms in Lancaster county 
before the war. In 18G3 he enlisted in 
company C, Twenty-first Pennsylvania cav- 
alry, which had 182 in the line, and was 
corporal of his company. He saw very ac- 
tive service for nine months, being most of 
the time on detail duty, and engaged in 
skirmishing in West Virginia. At the end 
of his term of enlistment he was honorably 
discharged from the service, and returned to 
Lancaster county. He at first resumed his 



former occupation, and taught two terms in 
Lancaster county. He also taught ten con- 
secutive terms in Swatara, Londonderry and 
Derry townships, Dauphin county. In the 
meantime he was also engaged in farming. 
In 1870 he removed to Dauphin county, and 
purchased the farm he is at present occupy- 
ing. He was married, in 1868, to Miss Mary, 
daughter of Jacob Strickler, of Dauphin 
county, by whom he has three children : 
Morris S., married to Emma Baum, daugh- 
ter of Michael Baum, of Londonderry town- 
ship; Laura E., wife of F. Y. Muth, jeweler, 
of Hummelstown ; Ralph D., and George S., 
died at twelve years of age. In politics Mr. 
Reider is a Republican. He and his family 
are supporters of the United Brethren church. 



Demy, Simon S.,justice of the peace, Middle- 
town, Pa., was born in Lower Swatara town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., April 24, 1849. 
He is a son of John and Ellen (Shreadley) 
Demy. His grandfather was a native of 
Germany, and was one of the early settlers 
of Dauphin county. His father was born in 
1778, and followed the occupation of butcher 
through life. After his marriage he resided 
in Lower Swatara township. He afterwards 
moved to Centre county, Pa., where he re- 
mained a few years. Returning to Dauphin 
county, he resided in Londonderry township 
until his death, in 1878. His wife, the 
mother of Simon S., died in 1855. He had 
previously been married to a Miss Muchel- 
haney, by whom there is one child living, 
Henry, of Swatara township. By his second 
wife he had five children: Ellen, Mrs. Fred- 
erick Core, of Harrisburg ; Savilla, Mrs. 
Hiram Kelley, of Highspire ; Leah, wife of 
Jacob Alleman, of Oberlin ; Maria, Mrs. 
Simon Stark, of Lower Swatara township, 
and Simon S. He was a prominent member 
of the Lutheran church and a member of 
the choir. He was a Democrat in politics. 

Simon S. was reared and educated in 
Lower Swatara township. He learned the 
trade of carpenter and builder, which he has 
made his life occupation. In 1871 he mar- 
ried Miss Sarah, daughter of Elias Krepps, 
of Lower Swatara township, and settled in 
the home he now occupies. He has six 
children: John, married Agnes Shenk, and 
has one child, Susan : Mary, wife of John 
Espenshade, has one child, Elsie; Simon, 
Isaac, Samuel, and Abner. Mr. Demy is a 
Republican. He has filled nearly all the 
township offices. In 1892 he was elected 



766 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



justice of the peace, which office he has since 
filled. He is a member of Lodge No. 70, I. 
0. 0. F., of Harrisburg. He is a prominent 
member of Ebenezer United Brethren church, 
of Lower S watara township. He is the super- 
intendent of two Sunday-schools. 



Jacks, Levi, was born in Derry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., August 27, 1842. He 
is a son of Thomas and Joann (Dewitt) 
Jacks. His father was born in Lancaster 
county, near Columbia, in 1815. He was a 
farmer by occupation, came to Dauphin 
county when a young man, and was a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church. He married 
Miss Joann Dewitt, of Dauphin county, 
whose parents died while she was very 
young. They had ten children, six of whom 
are living : Levi ; Sarah Ann, wife of George 
Buser, of Harrisburg; Thomas, married 
Miss Ann Hummel, of Hummelstown ; 
Jennie, wife of John Spidle, of Hummels- 
town ; Annie, wife of Christ Henry, of Roy- 
alton ; Andrew, married Miss Media Shoe- 
maker, of Hummelstown. The deceased chil- 
dren are : Mary, James, William and an infant. 

Levi attended the public schools and ac- 
quired a good education for that period. He 
was all the time as busy as all farmer boys 
must be. The days and hours for school 
were mingled with those of work ; for the 
stock must be cared for, and wood and 
water for the house must be provided. Amid 
a multiplicity of exacting demands upon 
time and strength the farmer's boy must use 
his earnest efforts to become intelligent, well 
informed, and educated for life's work. 
Levi found time for all duties, and none 
were neglected. He chose farming as his 
occupation for life, and is still engaged in it. 
It was a time of excitement in the country 
when he became old enough to have a voice 
in the government. Mr. Lincoln was candi- 
date for re-election to the presidency, and 
Levi cast his first vote for that great man. 
He has continued his connection with the 
Republican party as a voter. He holds the 
office of township auditor. 

He was married, October 1, 1867, to Miss 
Elizabeth, daughter of Abram and Eliza- 
beth (Nissley) Strickler, of Dauphin county. 
They had nine children, of whom six are 
living : Ida E., wife of Harry Christman, of 
Dauphin county ; Bertha A., living at home; 
Sherman S., Mabel J., Beulah P., and Laura 
May. Those deceased are: Franklin S., 
Minerva, and Milton. 



Gryder, Moses G., was born in Lebanon 
county, Pa., January 16, 1828. He is one of 
five children, all of whom are living. His 
father, Gottlieb T. Cryder, died in Lebanon 
county at the age of sixty-four years. Moses 
lived in that county until he was sixteen 
years old. He attended school regularly 
until ten years old, then only four or five 
months a year. His school days were well 
employed and he came to their end with a 
very fair education for the times. When he 
was fifteen, in 1843, he came to Londonderry 
township where he has since made his home, 
in what is now Royalton borough. He be- 
gan the active business of life as President 
Garfield, a boy on the canal. He continued 
to be employed as boatman on the canal for 
sixteen years, from 1838 to 1854. In the last 
named year he changed his occupation, be- 
coming engaged in sawing lumber. He was 
engaged from 1855 to 1883 in this and other 
pursuits, meanwhile getting ready for some 
more congenial business, and in 1880 he be- 
gan the grocery business, in which he is still 
engaged. In 1851 he was married to Miss 
Caroline, daughter of Thomas Dunn, of Lan- 
caster county. They have one child, J. Dunn 
Cryder, born August 11, 1853, who has been 
in the employment of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company for twenty years. In 
politics Mr. Cryder is independent. 



Foltz, John E., was born in Londonderry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., August 31, 
1830. He was the son of John and Cath- 
erine (Eby) Foltz. Christian Foltz, his 
grandfather, was the first of the family to 
settle in Dauphin county, about 1787. He 
had seven children : Elizabeth, John, Susan, 
Polly, Katherine, Christian, and Christiana, 
all deceased. John Foltz, father of John E., 
was born in Londonderry township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., August 16, 1792. He 
married Miss Catherine, daughter of Barbara 
Eby, of Dauphin county. They had eleven 
children, seven daughters and four sons : 
Barbara; Mary Ann, deceased; Catherine, 
Elizabeth, deceased ; Christiana; Susan, de- 
ceased; Christian, deceased; John E.; Samuel 
deceased ; James Monroe, deceased, and Sa- 
billa, deceased. 

John E., in 1837, when he was seven years 
old, moved to Elizabethtown, Lancaster 
county, where he lived until he was seventeen, 
and where he received the most of his educa- 
tion. In 1847 he went to Harrisburg, where 
he spent the next twelve years. He returned 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



767 



in March, 1859, to Elizabeth town, Lancaster 
county, and there lived until October, 1805. 
Since that date lie has lived in Londonderry 
township and in Royalton, where he now re- 
sides. The public schools in the several 
places in which his younger days were spent 
afforded him the opportunity of acquiring a 
very fair education. During the twelve years 
that he lived in Harrisburg he was for the 
most part employed in sawing lumber. On 
August 31, 1S64, he enlisted in the United 
States army for one year. He was a mem- 
ber of company E, Two Hundred and Third 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. He 
was honorably discharged June 27, 1865, 
and reached home July 3. The hearing of 
his left ear was entirely lost at the battle of 
Fort Fisher, January 14 and 15, 1S65. He 
was employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company from May 1, 1861, to 1892, a period 
of over thirty-one years, with the exception 
of the one year's service in the army, as above 
stated. In connection with Thomas Hol- 
land and John Matthias, he suggested the 
organization of Royalton, and was active in 
carrying out the plan. He has held all the 
township offices, has been tax collector in 
Royalton since 1891, and has also served a 
term as burgess and treasurer of the bor- 
ough. He was married, September 14,1864, 
to Miss Frederica, daughter of Andrew Hon- 
nesy, a native of Germany. They have one 
child, Harry F. Foltz, born May 21, 1866; 
married Miss Annie Miller, July 3, 1887, 
and has one child, John E., born May 18, 
1888. Mr. Harry F. Foltz is employed at 
the Middletown Pipe Works as overseer of 
the sticker blocks. 



Eplek, Jacob R., Londonderry township, 
was born where he now lives, March 31, 
1846. His great-grandfather, Peter Epler, 
was a native of Germany, and was one of 
the old settlers of Berks county, Pa. He was 
the father of three sons: John, Christopher, 
and Abraham. John Epler was born in 
Berks county in 1774, and came to Dauphin 
county in 1812. He married Miss Barbara 
Mover, of Lancaster county, by whom he 
had ten children, all deceased: John, Eliza- 
beth, Jacob, Abraham, David, Daniel, Bar- 
bara, Mary, Christopher, and Jacob. Two 
of his sons were named Jacob. His son 
David M., father of Jacob R., was born in 
Lancaster county, December 2, 1810. He 
came to Londonderry with his parents in 
1812, and acquired his education in the pub- 



lic schools. His mother died in 1820. In 
1S26 he left home and began to work for 
himself. He was married, February 5, 1835, 
to Miss Catherine, daughter of Henry Roth- 
rock, of Dauphin county. They had these 
children : John Henry, Eliza Ann, Margaret, 
Mary, Barbara, Jacob, David, Abraham, 
Catherine, Lydia H., and Laura E. He was 
a farmer by occupation and took an active 
part in politics, in connection with the Re- 
publican party, and held many of the town- 
ship offices. He was for sixty years a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church. He died Jan- 
uary 31, 1892, at the age of eighty-one years. 
Jacob R. attended the public schools, and 
acquired a good education. He lived at 
home until he became of age, in 1867, when 
he established a home of his own, and be- 
gan business for himself. He is a stock- 
holder in the Fanners' Bank, of Middle- 
town. He has been a director of the Lon- 
donderry Live Stock Insurance Company 
since its organization in 1887. He pur- 
chased the farm upon which he now lives in 
1889. He is a Republican, and takes an ac- 
tive interest in politics; he has held many 
of the township offices. He and his family 
are connected with the Lutheran church of 
Elizabethtown. He was married, July 14, 
1867, to Miss Catherine, daughter of Joshua 
and Barbara (Welker) Kaylor, of London- 
derry township. They have one child, 
Simon L. Epler, born August 26, 1867 ; liv- 
ing at home. 



Hoffman, Ephraim B., was born in 
Dauphin county, December 24, 1840. His 
father, Peter E. Hoffman, was born December 
10, 1813. He was one of the early settlers of 
Dauphin count}'. He acquired an ordinary 
education ; he was a farmer and for a num- 
ber of years farmed on what is known as 
Duffy's island. He was a Republican and 
held many of the township offices. Pie mar- 
ried Elizabeth, a daughter of William Berg, 
a native of Germany. They had seven chil- 
dren, two of whom are living : John B., mar- 
ried Sylinda Lane, daughter of John Lane, 
of Dauphin county, died August 2, 1886; 
Ephraim B.; Anne, wife of Horace Strong, of 
Dauphin county; Barbara, died at the age 
of fourteen years; Jacob, died at the age of 
twelve years; Amanda, died at the age of 
thirteen months; and Elizabeth, died at the 
age of five years. 

Ephraim B. acquired his education in the 
public schools. He lived on the farm with 



768 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



his father until he was twenty-five years of 
age. He has been employed by the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company since January 
16, 1866. For twenty-four years he was con- 
ductor of the wreck train. On March 25, 
1890, he lost his "left leg, and since that time 
has been employed by the company in the 
town as leverman. He built one of the first 
houses in what is now known as Royalton. 
He has taken an active interest in politics as 
a Republican. He and his family take a 
prominent part in church work in the Lu- 
theran church. He married, April 20,1865, 
Lydia B. Fink, daughter of Samuel and Re- 
becca (Burns) Fink, by whom he has had six 
children : Emma, born November 2, 1865, 
died at the age of twenty-one years ; William, 
born September 11, 1867, died February 24, 
1871 ; Lizzie, born January 15, 1870, died 
September 9, 1871 ; Charles, born February 
24, 1872, died at the age of sixteen years ; 
John, born Jaunary 1, 1874, living at home, 
employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, and Peter, born July 6, 1876, em- 
ployed by the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany. 



Miller, John E., was born in Germany, 
February 25, 1840 ; came to this country 
with his step-father in 1846 ; was educated 
in the public schools ; learned whip making, 
and worked at that trade for a number of 
years at York, Pa. On August 27, 1864, he 
enlisted in the army under Capt. John 
Weimer, of company A, Two Hundredth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. He 
served in this company until June 28, 1865, 
when he was honorably discharged on ac- 
count of incurred disability. In 1870 he 
was employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company as track walker, in which capacity 
he served until his death in 1883. He was 
one of the first settlers in what is now known as 
Royalton. He and his wife were both active 
members of the Lutheran church of Middle- 
town. He was married, October 17, 1864, to 
Miss Mary, daughter of Henry and Mary 
(Rickai'd) Andrews, of Elizabethtown, by 
whom he had eight children, all now living 
except one. They are: Harry Edwin, born 
March 20,1865, married Miss Rebecca Bailey, 
of Youngstown, Ohio, where they now live, 
and have one child, Jennie ; Annie Mary, 
born August 13, 1867, wife of Harry Foltz, 
of Royalton, has one child, John E.; John 
Franklin, born September 16, 1869, died 
August 24, 1870; Alice Louisa, born April 



25, 1871, wife of Harry T. Kauffman, of 
Royalton ; Jennie E., born August 1, 1874, 
living at home; Charles A., born October 
25, 1875, living at home, employed in the 
pipe works ; Edgar B., born January 7, 1879, 
living at home, and Daisy E., born March 
27, 1881, living at home. Mr. Miller died 
October 17, 1883, of lung disease. 



Mathias, John, was born in York county, 
Pa., December 18, 1831. His grandparents 
had born to them a family of eight children : 
Peter, Henry, George, John, Jacob, Lena. 
Elizabeth, and Catharine, all of whom are 
deceased. Peter Mathias, his father, a son 
of John Mathias, who was a native of Ger- 
many and came at an early date to York 
county, was born there in 1800. He was a 
miller by occupation and acquired the ordi- 
nary education of that time. He married 
Henrietta Strine, of York county. They 
had six children : John ; Nassese, born Jan- 
uary 24, 1834, deceased ; Charles Henry, 
born November 24, 1836, deceased ; Susan, 
born December 26, 1837, deceased; Mary 
Ellen, born February 2, 1843, widow of 
Frederick Messenger, resides in York county; 
Sarah Jane, born December 10, 1845, wife of 
John Nanchtrup, living in the West. 

John Mathias lived with his parents in 
York county until he was eighteen years of 
age, in 1849, at which time the death of his 
father occurred. He had the usual oppor- 
tunities for securing an education afforded 
by the public schools of the time. He was 
engaged first in the business of a saw mill 
and afterwards for a number of years in 
mercantile business. In 1862 he enlisted in 
company A, One Hundred and Sixty-sixth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, in which 
he served for nine months. In August, 1864, 
he enlisted for one year in company E, Ninth 
Pennsylvania cavalry, and served until the 
close of the war. He bas taken an active in- 
terest in politics. He is also much interested 
in church work and was for many years 
connected with the United Brethren church. 
He gave the lot on which the first chapel 
was built in what is now known as Royal- 
ton, in 1875. On the same lot the Liberal 
church was erected in 1893. He was mar- 
ried, September 8, 1850, to Henrietta, daugh- 
ter of Peter Repman, of York county. They 
had seven children : Elinor, born November 
29, 1850, wife of Samuel Harvey, living at 
Canton, Ohio; Cyrus, born February 28, 
1852, married Miss Emma France, by whom 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



769 



he had seven children, six of whom are liv- 
ing ; Morris, born April 5, 1854, married 
Clara Sides, has three children, lives in Can- 
ton, Ohio; Priscilla, born November 7,1857, 
wife of Joseph Myers, of York county, has 
one child : Mahala,born November 29, 1859, 
deceased ; Minerva, born January 31, 1862, 
wife of Kirk Snyder, of Royalton, has four 
children ; Sarah Ellen, born August 2G, 
18G4, wife of Gamaliel Grove, of York 
county, has six children ; Henrietta, wife of 
John Mathias, died June 8, 1865. He was 
married to his second wife, Susanna Eichel- 
berger, widow of William Henry Eichelber- 
ger, February 27, 1860. They have had 
two children : Newton O, born December 
27, 1867, died November 19, 1870, and Cas- 
per B., born October 11, 1870, married Eliz- 
abeth Cormely, has one child and resides in 
Royalton. 

Mrs. Mathias had born to her, by her pre- 
vious marriage with W. H. Eichelberger, 
five children : William Henry, who married 
Clara Moser and now resides in Royalton, 
they have three living children ; Charles 
Edward, single and resides in Arizona ; 
Emeline, wife of John Zimmerman, has two 
living children and resides in Middletown ; 
John B. McLellan, died at the age of fifteen 
years ; Alice Elizabeth, wife of George Cle- 
land, who have five living children and re- 
side in Royalton. William Henry Eichel- 
berger served in company G, Sixth Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, during the Rebellion and 
was killed while nobly serving in defense of 
his country. 



Beard, Ammon W., was born at Fox Hill, 
Berks county, Pa., September 4, 1840. His 
father, Samuel Beard, was born in 1S03, in 
Berks county, where he lived until 1858, 
when he came to Dauphin county. He had 
only a limited education. He was a black- 
smith and worked at this trade for the Read- 
ing Railroad Company. He was a Repub- 
lican and took an active pari in politics. 
He married Hannah Rhodes, of Berks county ,• 
by whom lie had eleven children : Mark J., 
married I latherine Sides, of Dauphin county ; 
Eliza, wife of Jacob L. Rehner, of Royalton : 
Ammon W.: Catherine, wife of Cyrus Dur- 
borow, of Falmouth, Lancaster county. Pa.; 
Samuel G., married Margaret Barnes, of 
Steel ton ; Hannah, wife of Isaac Rank, of 
Lebanon county; Harmon T.. married Miss 
Millie Weymcr, of Harrisburg; Titus, died 
at the age of eleven years; Henry, died aged 



twenty-one years ; George, died aged twenty- 
three years ; William, died at the age of fifty 7 
years. William and George served in the 
late war, in the Fifty-third regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers. 

Ammon W. came to Middletown in 1858. 
He acquired a good education in the schools 
at Pottstown, Pa. He learned the trade of 
blacksmith. He has worked at this trade 
and has also followed carpentry and boat 
building for a number of years. He was 
foreman in the wood-working department of 
the Middletown Car Works for four years. 
He has been employed in the milk business 
for the last four years. He was, at one time, 
a member of Lodge No. 68, K. of P., in 
Middletown, and of the Order of United 
American Mechanics. At the present time 
he is a member of the Poketo Tribe, No. 
315, I. 0. R. M., of Middletown. He takes 
an active part in the operations of the Re- 
publican party. He was married, July IS, 
1861, to Miss Mary Ann Knerr, stepdaughter 
of John Springer, by whom he has eight 
children : Rebecca, wife of Jacob P. Dough- 
erty, of Royalton ; Charles F., married Miss 
Maria, daughter of Joseph and Lydia Meyers 
Peters, of Middletown ; Samuel H., Isaac, 
Otis, Sophia, Nellie, and Edna, all at home. 
He has occupied his present home, in what is 
now known as Royalton, since 1861. In 
1892 he was elected justice of the peace, which 
office he has since filled. He is also super- 
visor of Rovalton. 



Diehn, Henry, Royalton, was born in 
Penn township, Lancaster county, April 30, 
182S. His father, John Diehn, son of Philip 
Diehn, was born in Warwick township, Lan- 
caster county, August 5, 1795. He died 
August 19, 1S73. He was a farmer, and in 
politics a Republican. He was an active 
member in the White Oak Lutheran church. 
He married Miss Sarah Seitzinger, daughter 
of Michael Seitzinger, of Berks county. Pa. 
They had five children : Eliza, born Septem- 
ber 5, 1820, wife of Abraham Dobner, of 
Penn township. Lancaster county : Leonard, 
born September 19, 1822, died November 
27,1876; Sarah Ann, horn April 28,1826, 
wife of David Smith, of Penn township. Lan- 
caster county : Henry: Priscilla. horn Octo- 
ber 21, 1834, wife of Christopher Eversole, 
of Elizabethtowu, Lancaster county, died 
December 19, 1863. The father died August 
19, 1873, and the mother October 17, 1865. 

Henry lived in Lancaster county until 



770 



BIO GRA PHICAL EN CYGL OPEDIA 



1867. He was educated in the White Oak 
school in that county. He chose farming as 
his occupation, and was engaged in that pur- 
suit until he was nearly thirty-five years of 
age. In 1867 he came to Dauphin county, 
to what is now Royalton, and purchased the 
home where he has since lived. When he 
came to this county he changed his voca- 
tion, finding employment with the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company, and has con- 
tinued to serve that corporation up to the 
present time. For twenty-four years he 
worked on the wreck train. For the past 
four years he has been employed by the 
company as gateman at the Union street 
crossing in Middletown. He is a Republi- 
can. As a member of the Lutheran church 
he takes an active interest in all church 
work. He was married, in Lancaster county, 
August, 1857, to Miss Julia Ann Leightner, 
daughter of Andrew and Ellen (McGomery) 
Leightner, of York county, by whom he had 
three children, who were reared to maturity : 
Leonard H, born December 28, 1858, mar- 
ried Miss Annie Federoh, of Highspire, by 
whom he has two children, Mary, and Julia, 
living in Baltimore, Md.; Sarah Ellen, born 
October 18, 1862, wife of William Andrews, 
of Middletown ; Elias Grant, born December 
26, 1867, married, and has a famiby of four 
children; lives in Philadelphia and is em- 
ployed by the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany. 



Brinsee, Solomon O, was born in Dau- 
phin county, Pa., February 21, 1832. His 
father, John Brinser, was born in the same 
county, in 1782, died September 17, 1875. He 
acquired his education in the public schools. 
His political opinions were Republican. In 
1820 he began the manufacture of grain 
cradles, and made the first implement of the 
kind ever produced in Dauphin county. He 
continued in this business for many years, 
and is succeeded in it by his sons, who still 
carry it on. He married Mary Carper, \>y 
whom he had eleven children : Jacob, John, 
Samuel, Joseph, Jonas, Abraham, Matthias, 
Solomon O, Betsey, Katie, and Nancy. John, 
Samuel, Betsey and Nancy are deceased. 

Solomon C. was educated in the schools of 
Dauphin county. He. inherited the me- 
chanical tastes and talents of his father, and 
naturally chose manufacturing as his life 
employment. He was also of an inventive 
turn of mind ; he invented and manufac- 
tured the first wheel rake made and used in 



this county, and its manufacture became the 
business which occupied him from 1855 to 
1868. He then turned his attention to the 
manufacture of woolen goods and carpets, 
and conducted that enterprise until 1880. 
Since that time he has been engaged in the 
manufacture of the celebrated Standard 
Corn Meal, made by a process of his own in- 
vention, which has reached an enormous 
sale throughout the county, one dealer alone 
selling more than a thousand bushels per 
season. He also manufactures sawed chest- 
nut shingles. 

He was married, in 1856, to Miss Barbara, 
daughter of John Ruth. They have had 
ten children, nine of whom are living: Al- 
bert, born November 30, 1858, married Miss 
Maggie Shope, has one child ; Clara, born 
April 18, 1860, wife of John Vance, of Lon- 
donderry township ; Mary, born November 
3, 1861, married Aaron Coble, of London- 
derry township, has three children; Harry, 
born April 8, 1865, married Miss Lizzie 
Tennis, has three children ; Emma, born 
August 10, 1867, married Sadoc Shope, has 
one child; Ida, born December 10, 1869, 
married Joseph Mumma, has two children ; 
Katie, born January 18, 1872, died August 
25, 1879 ; Solomon, Jr., born July 27, 1874, 
and John, born December 22, 1876, both in 
the milling business with their father, and 
unmarried; Ruth, born January 27, 1880, at 
home. 



Baum, Michael S., miller and ice dealer, 
was born in Dauphin count}', Pa., August 5, 
1845. His grandfather, John Baum, was 
born in Lancaster county, and was a farmer. 
He married a Miss Baum. Their children 
were five in number: Michael, Benjamin, 
Martha and Sarah, both deceased, and 
Daniel. He came to Dauphin county at an 
early date and purchased the Locust Grove 
Hotel, near Oberlin, which he carried on 
for many years. 

Michael Baum, father of Michael S., was 
born in January, 1811. He was educated in 
the public schools and when a young man 
learned the business of milling, which he 
followed for about twenty-five years ; he after- 
wards engaged in farming. He took an ac- 
tive part in politics in connection with the 
Republican party. In 1832 he married Sarah, 
daughter of George Smith , of Dauphin county, 
by whom he had eight children : John, mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob Reider ; 
Samuel, married Miss Elizabeth Stookey ; 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



771 



Sarah, wife of John Cassel ; Michael S. ; 
George, deceased ; Isaac, died at the age of 
eight years ; Ann, wife of George Bell ; Mary, 
married first to John Besehover, the second 
time to William Umherger. 

Michael S. received his education in the 
public schools of this county. He learned 
the milling business when a young man, and 
has continued it up to the present time. He 
is also a dealer in ice. In 1S66 he married 
Miss Susan, daughter of Joseph and Cordelia 
(Smith) Keeper, of Dauphin county. They 
have eight children, seven of whom are liv- 
ing: Joseph, born May 18, 1868, married 
Jennie Plouse, of Hummelstown, has one 
child; Simon Michael, born October 2S, 1870, 
married Miss Barbara Hoffer, of Dauphin 
county, has one child ; Cordelia, born July 
28, 1872, died January 27,1874; Sarah Ann, 
born June 14, 1873, wife of Harry Strickler, 
of Clifton, has one child; Emma, born Sep- 
tember 23, 1875, wife of Morris Reider, son 
of Jacob Reider ; Homer, born August 14, 
1877, living at home ; Harvey, born March 
3, 1880, living at home; Susan, born Novem- 
ber 2, 1882, living at home. 



Rutherford, John M., Royalton, Pa., was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., November 17, 
1857. He is a son of Samuel Rutherford, 
a native of Dauphin count}', and Elizabeth 
(Minuich) Rutherford, of Lancaster county. 
The father was a farmer by occupation, and 
was suffocated in a well in Lancaster county 
in 1860. These parents had five children : 
Frank, killed on the Pennsylvania railroad 
while in the employment of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company ; Eliza, Samuel, 
David, and John M. John M. received his 
education in the schools of Lancaster county. 
He was engaged in farming until 1875, when 
he became an apprentice to James Ruther- 
ford to learn stoncmasonry. After serving 
his apprenticeship he worked at his trade 
for some years. In 1S81 lie was employed 
by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, 
and held his position for four years. In 188.5- 
he managed the Farmers' Hotel at High- 
spire, Pa. After this he was employed by 
the Pennsylvania Steel Company, at Steel- 
ton, for two years, and for the next two years 
at the rolling mill at Ilarrisburg. In 1890 
lie located at Middletown, where lie was en- 
gaged with the American Tube and Iron 
Company, and was also contraelor for stone 
work for one year. He was then employed 
in the store of M. II. Hartman for a year. 



after which he engaged in the baking busi- 
ness. He then returned to Mr. Hartman's 
store, which he afterwards left for the dry 
goods store of Mrs. Fairman. He then re- 
moved to Royalton, where he has since car- 
ried on a general mercantile business. He 
is a member of the Junior Order of Ameri- 
can Mechanics at Royalton, and of the Senior 
Order at Middletown. In 1878 he married 
Miss Lizzie, daughter of John Nunnemacher, 
of Lancaster county. They have had six 
children : John, Samuel, deceased, Mary. 
Frank A., William, and Joseph. 

Brinser, Simon, Middletown, Pa., was born 
in Londonderry township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., March 10, 1866 ; son of Peter Brinser. 
He acquired his education in the public 
schools and engaged in grain and truck 
farming, in which he has been continuously 
employed. In his political views he is a 
Republican. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the United Zion Children's church. 
Mr. Brinser was married, March 15, 1885, to 
Miss Maggie Beaver, daughter of William L. 
Beaver, of Dauphin county, by whom he has 
four children: William, born February 3, 
18S6; Charit}', born March 7, 1887; Annie, 
born March 20, 1S94 ; Maggie, born March 
31, 1890, and died July 9, 1890. 



Brinser, E. C, Middletown, Pa., was born 
at Bachmansville, Pa., November 13, 1843; 
son of John C. Brinser. He attended the 
school of his native place and was engaged 
in farming until he was twenty-five years of 
age. He then taught in the public schools 
for six terms in Londonderry township and 
in Lancaster county, after which he suc- 
ceeded his uncle, Mathias Brinser, in the 
manufacturing of the celebrated Brinser 
grain cradles and scythe snaths, in which 
he continued for some years, and during the 
past eight years has been engaged in farm- 
ing and fruit raising, which lie carries on 
extensively. In 1870 he married Miss Caro- 
line K. Deckard, daughter of Israel Deck- 
ard, of Middletown, by whom lie has four- 
teen children, who are all living: Nancy, 
born April 15, 1870, wife of Edward Mun- 
burg. of Middletown, and they have one 
child ; Zeruah, born September 6, 1872, wife 
of Albert Good, of Londonderry township, 
and they have one child : Harry D., born 
November 30, 1873; John Wesley, born Au- 
gust 3, 1N75 : Mary I.), and Barbara, twins, 
born August 26, 1^77: Bertha, born April 



772 



BIO Git A PMIGAL ENCYCL OPED I A 



10, 1880 ; Oscar, born June 18, 1882 ; Carrie, 
born June 28, 1884: Marion, born January 
24, 1886 ; Blanche, born September 18, 1887 ; 
Florence, born September 12. 1889 ; Grace, 
born February 11, 1892; Helen, born April 
30, 1894. Mr. Brinser and his family are 
connected with the United Brethren church. 



Brinser, Jonas C, was born in London- 
derry township, June, 1828, where he has 
spent his entire life, with the exception of 
two years. He attended the local schools 
and acquired a good business education. 
For about four years he was engaged in a 
general mercantile business, after which he 
became interested in the manufacture of the 
celebrated Brinser grain cradles. Mr. Brinser 
has taken an active part in political affairs 
and is a member of the Republican party. 
He served as justice of the peace for ten years. 
In 1854 he was married to Miss Lydia 
Weaver, daughter of George Weaver, of 
Lancaster county. They have had eight 
children, four of whom are living: Dudley, 
married Miss Kate Snyder; Julia Ann, 
unmarried; Burd, married Miss Annie 
Rider, of Harrisburg ; Alice, wife of Albert 
Foetz, of Londonderry township. 



Beates, Edward K., farmer, Londonderry 
township, was born in Lancaster, Pa., Novem- 
ber 17, 1852; son of F. W. and Sophia (Kel- 
ler) Beates. The father was a son of William 
Beates and was born and reared in Lancaster 
county. His wife was a native of the same 
county and was a daughter of Adam Keller. 
They had seven children, of whom five are 
living : William A., living in Ohio ; Anna 
M.; James F., living at Salt Lake City, Utah ; 
Louisa C, and Edward K. In 1859 the 
parents came to Londonderry township, 
Dauphin county, where they now reside. 
Edward K. lived in his native place until he 
was seven 3'ears of age, when he came to 
Dauphin county witli his parents and settled 
in Londonderry township, where he attended 
the public schools and also was one term at 
the State Normal School. His occupation is 
farming. In politics he is a Republican, and 
a member of the Lutheran church. 



Bond, S. Weidler, farmer, Middletown, 
Pa., was born in Lancaster county, Pa., 
March 27, 1835; son of John and Eliza 
(Weidler) Bond, natives of Lancaster county. 
The father was a farmer by occupation and 
was considered one of the most prominent 



farmers of that period. His wife died in 
Lancaster county. They were members of 
the Lutheran church, in which Mr. Bond 
held the office of deacon. S. Weidler was 
married, in Lancaster county, Pa., December 
27, 1857, to Miss Susan Hess, daughter of 
Jacob Hess. In 1864 he moved to Stark 
county, Ohio, where he was engaged in farm- 
ing until 1872 or 1873, when he returned 
to Dauphin county and purchased his pres- 
ent farm in Londonderry township, where 
he has since resided. His wife died in 
March, 1884. He was married, secondly, in 
May, 1886, to Mrs. Anna Landis, daughter 
of David Sumny, of Londonderry township. 
His children by his first wife are : Ada E., 
Mrs. John Grove, died December 3, 1881, 
they have one child, Laura ; Alvin H, of 
Lower Swatara township, married Mary 
Strickler ; Alice M., Mrs. Harry Gingrich, of 
Lower Swatara township, who has three 
children, Mary, Edith, and Florence; Arva 
B., deceased, married Mary Gingerich, and 
they have two children, Ada and Katie; 
John H, Middletown, coachmaker, married 
Katie Chubb, and they have one child, 
Alice; Milton H, Oberlin, married Anna 
Straub ; William B., at home. In his poli- 
tics Mr. Bond is a Republican. The family 
are members of the Lutheran church. 



Connely, James, Royalton, Pa., was born 
in Ireland, May 16, 1842 ; son of John Con- 
nely. The father was a native of Ireland 
and spent his life in his native land. He 
married Miss Joanna Murphey, by whom he 
reared three children : Matthew, Martin and 
James. Martin was a soldier in the English 
army during the Crimean war, and after 
twelve years service returned to Ireland, and 
later removed to England, where he died. 
Matthew died of consumption in his native 
land. 

James acquired his education in the par- 
ish schools of his native country. He was 
married, June 24, 1861, to Miss Ann O'Con- 
nor, daughter of John and Nancy (Byrn) 
O'Connor, and to them were born six chil- 
dren : Joanna, born in Ireland, wife of Will- 
iam Manning, of Royalton, Pa., and they 
have four sons : John, William, James, and 
Joseph ; Matthew, born in Ireland, died on 
the voyage to America and is buried at sea ; 
Fannie, born in Ireland, died at Royalton, 
Pa.; Mary, died at Royalton, Pa.; Lizzie, 
wife of B. Mathias, of Royalton, and they 
had one child, Maud V.; John, born March 






«l. ilJl 



<XAA. 



^ 





o+t. 




9^4? 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



775 



23, 1872. Mr. Conncly left Britain for 
America November 1, 1864, and landed in 
New York December 31, wbere he stayed 
three weeks and then wont to Bucksville, Va., 
where he remained with his family about 
seven months. lie removed thence to Dan- 
ville, Va.; and from thence to Baltimore, Md., 
and finally settled at Royalton, Pa., in 18G8, 
where he has since lived. Since that time 
be lias been in the employment of the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company on the wreck 
train. He is a member of the Roman 
Catholic church. 



Coble, Andrew, was born in York count}', 
Pa., April 4, 1849 ; son of John C. Coble. 
The father was born in York county, Pa., 
in 1801, and died in March, 1881. He 
learned the cooper trade and followed 
it for some years. In his political views 
he was a Republican. He married Mary 
Kauffman and they had seven children : 
William, Jacob, Charles, Henry, Sarah, 
Reuben, and Andrew. Andrew was reared 
and received his education in his native 
county. He learned the blacksmith trade, 
and followed this occupation in connection 
with farming in York county until 1883, 
when he removed to Dauphin county, and 
purchased the place where he now lives. 
He was married, July 30, 1868, to Miss M. 
T. Strominger, daughter of Henry Strom- 
inger, of York county. Their children are : 
Mary Ellen, William Henry, John A., Emma, 
Alda, Sarah, Chester Cleveland, Margaret 
Pearl, Onia, Leroy, and Lottie. In his poli- 
tics he is a Democrat. He and his family 
are active members of the United Brethren 
church. 



Kukksolk, John I'., was born in London- 
derry township, on the place on which he 
now lives, March 26, 1832; son of John 
Ebersole. The father was born in Derry 
township, Dauphin county, May 20, L797. 
He acquired a good education and came to 
Londonderry township when a young man, 
in 1824, and* settled on the farm now owned 
by his son John P., where he was continu- 
ously engaged in farming. He married Miss 
Elizabeth Pile, born January 26, 1796, died 
February 2, 1892; daughter of Jacob Pile. 
Their children were: Mary, wife of Joseph 
Foreman, both deceased, six children surviv- 
ing them ; Jacob, deceased, married Maria 
Bowman, eight, children surviving him : 
Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Hosier, living 
5° 



near Pennville, Lancaster county, Pa., and 
have four children ; Abraham, married 
Christina Snyder, both deceased, five chil- 
dren surviving them ; Catherine, wife of 
George Hosier, they have seven children 
living and one deceased ; John P., attended 
the public schools and learned the trade of 
carpenter and cooper, which he followed up 
to 1866 and has also been engaged in farm- 
ing. In politics he is a Republican, and at- 
tends the Lutheran church. In 185S he 
married Miss Sarah Smith, daughter of Jacob 
Smith. Their children are: Marv, born 
November 28, 1858, married E. B. Wisler, of 
York county, and they have three children, 
Clarence, Manada and John ; Solomon, born 
December 7, 1860, has taught school since he 
was eighteen years of age, makes his home 
with his father; Elizabeth, born November 17, 
1862, wife of F.W. Shoemaker, of Campbells- 
town, and they have seven children: Mabel, 
Yeagle, Carrie, Robert, Lillie, Sally and John ; 
Fannie, born September 12, 1870, wife of I. 
H. Foltz, of Londonderry township, and they 
have two children, Addie and Russell; John 
Webster, born February 12, 1S77, unmarried 
and living at home. 



Foltz, J. H., Middletown, Pa., was born 
in Susquehanna township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., February 18, 1858; son of Christian 
Foltz. The father was born July 12, 1802. 
He was a merchant and farmer by occupa- 
tion, and died at the age of sixty years, 
March 27, 1863. He married, first, Anna 
Mary Eppler, by whom he had eight chil- 
dren : Jacob, born August 17, 1S23, died 
April 2, 185!) ; Susanna, born April 8, 1825; 
Josiah, born November 8, 1826 ; John, born 
July 26, 1828; Christian, born June 7, 1830, 
died April 29, 1836; Samuel, born April 12, 
1832 ; Jonas, born September 26, 1835, died 
March 22, 1N36; and an infant son, died 
July, 1835. Mr. Foltz married a second 
time, and by this wife lie had six children : 
Eli, born February 8,1841 : Mary Ann, born 
August 12, 1842: David, born August 10, 
1845; Elizabeth, horn May 17,1847; Cath- 
erine, bom April 27, 1849; Barbara, born 
March 24, 1851. Mr. Foltz married, thirdly, 
Miss Elizabeth Huntzburger, by whom he 
had four children, three of whom are living: 
Obed. horn April 12, 1862; Kmeline, born 
March 25, 1867 ; and .1. H. J. II. Foltz at- 
tended the school of bis native place, and 
learned the trade of a carpenter, lie was 
employed in the Middletown Car Shops for 



776 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



a number of years and has also been much 
engaged in farming. In 1890 he purchased 
the Keller farm, where he has resided since 
that date. He was married, in 1888, to Miss 
Fannie Ebersole, daughter of. John P. Eber- 
sole, of Londonderry township, by whom he 
has two children: Russel, born November 9, 
1890, and Sadie, born December 2, 1888. 



Geyer, Michael, Middletown, Pa., was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., September 2, 
1853 ; son of Jacob Geyer. The father was 
the first of the Geyer family to settle in Dau- 
phin county, he having come from Mt. Joy, 
Lancaster county, in 1860, and having lo- 
cated on what is known now as the "Old 
Geyer Homestead." He was well educated 
for his time, and was a prominent and suc- 
cessful farmer. He married Miss Annie 
Kauffman, of Lancaster county, and their 
children are : Katie, Abram, George, Mar- 
tha, deceased, and Michael. Mr. and Mrs. 
Geyer were members of the United Brethren 
church. He died in 1889. Michael came 
with his parents to Dauphin county when 
he was six years of age, and was reared and 
educated in the schools of this county. 
He learned the trade of carpenter, and sub- 
sequently engaged in farming. He is active 
in politics, and is a member of the Republi- 
can party. His church membership is with 
the United Brethren. In 1878 Mr. Geyer 
was married to Miss Fanny Kinsey, daugh- 
ter of Samuel Kinsey, of Londonderry town- 
ship. They have no children living. In 
1890 Mr. Geyer purchased the farm on which 
he is now living. 



Garver, C. L., Middletown, Pa., was born 
in Cumberland county, Pa., March 1, 1838 ; 
son of Christian Garver, Jr. The grand- 
father, Christian Garver, Sr., was a native of 
Lancaster county. He was a farmer by occu- 
pation. He married Miss Grim, of Lancas- 
ter county, by whom he had eight children : 
David, John, Jacob, Christian, Rachel, Nancy, 
Barbara, and one unnamed, all deceased. 
He came to Dauphin county about 1820, and 
settled on a piece of land which is still in the 
possession of the family. Christian Garver, 
Jr., the father of C. L., was born in Lancaster 
county in 1815, and when five years of age 
came "with his parents to Dauphin county, 
where he was reared and received his educa- 
tion in the school of that period. In 1836 
he was married to Miss R. Lord, daughter of 
James Lord, a native of England, by whom 



he had six children : John, Elizabeth, C. L.> 
Joseph, Susan, and Samuel. 

C. L. Garver acquired his education in 
the schools of Londonderry township, which 
he attended until he was sixteen years of 
age. In his earlier life he was employed by 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and 
in 1875 he began farming, which has since 
been his occupation. In 1876 he purchased 
the farm on which he has since had his resi- 
dence. 

He takes an active interest in politicsjiu 
connection with the Republican party, and 
has held many of the township offices. He 
and his family attend the United Brethren 
church. In 1862 he was married to Miss 
Catherine Bunser, daughter of John and 
Mary (Barber) Bunser, of Londonderry town- 
ship, by whom he has six children, of whom 
five are living : Albert B., married Miss 
Mary Bowser, daughter of Benjamin Bowser, 
and they have two children living; John, 
married Ellen Moyer, living at Conoy, Pa., 
and they have three children ; Harry B., 
school teacher at Royalton, living at home,un- 
married ; Susan, wife of David Brandt, and 
they have four children; Annie and Katie, 
twins — Katie died at the age of seven, Annie 
living at home. 



Garver, Joseph L.,Londonderry township, 
was born on the old Garver farm, in London- 
derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 3, 1840 ; son of Christian Garver, Jr. 
The grandfather, Christian Garver, Sr., was 
the first of the family to settle in Dauphin 
county. He came to the county about 1805 
and located on what came to be known as 
the old Garver homestead, where he lived 
until his death in 1848. He had nine chil- 
dren : John, Jacob, David, Samuel, Chris- 
tian, Nancy, Mary, Fanny, and one child not 
named. Christian Garver, Jr., father of Jo- 
seph L., was born on the old homestead in 
1813. He acquired a good education for 
that period and became a farmer, and fol- 
lowed the occupation through life. He was 
an active member of the United Brethren 
church. His wife was Miss Susan Lord, 
daughter of William Lord, of Lebanon 
county, and they had five children : Eliza- 
beth, John, Christian, Joseph, and Susan, who 
are all living excepting Elizabeth, who 
died in the fall of 1875. Joseph L. lived on 
the home farm until he was nineteen years 
of age, after which he engaged in farming 
on his own account and has made this his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



Ill 



occupation. In 1867 he was married to Miss 
Mary C. Bunser, daughter of Rev. John 
Bunser, of Londonderry township. Mr. 
Garver is a Republican in politics, and is an 
active member of the United Brethren 
church. Mrs. Garver is a member of the 
United Zion's Children's church. They have 
one child, Harry B., born February 15, 1870. 
He was graduated from the State Normal 
School at Millersville, July 3, 1890, since 
which time he has been engaged in teaching 
in the public schools. 



Gingirich, Jacob, farmer, Middletown, 
Pa., was born on the Nissley farm in Lon- 
donderry township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 16, 1840 ; son of Jonas and Christina 
(Metzger) Gingirich. The first of the family 
to settle in the county, so far as known, was 
David Gingirich, who is buried in the grave- 
yard on the present Guyer farm. His chil- 
dren were : Jonas, John, Daniel, David. Dan- 
iel settled in Illinois, and died there. John 
died on the homestead. David settled in 
Lancaster county, Pa., near Elizabeth town, 
where he died. Martha married George 
Wyman, and died in Londondeny township. 
Barbara, married a Mr. Sheeley, and lives in 
the West. Jonas, father of Jacob M., was 
born on the homestead in 1811, and died in 
1844. He was a farmer. His religious 
fellowship was with the United Brethren, 
and in politics he was a Whig. His wife 
was born in 1809, and died in 1892. They 
had four children, two of whom are living : 
Jacob M. and Leah, wife of David Espen- 
stoch, of Londondeny township. 

Jacob M. received only a limited education. 
His father died when he was four years old, 
and he was reared among strangers and be- 
came a farmer. In 1867 he married Elizabeth 
Wagner, daughter of John Wagner, of Lon- 
donderry township. Their children are: 
Simon W., born in I860, married Carrie 
Whitmer, daughter of David Whitmer, and 
they have one child, Lizzie ; David W., born 
in 1871, married Miss Mary Rife, daughter of 
John Rife, of Londonderry township. Mr. 
Gingirich settled on his present farm in 1865, 
and farmed on the shares for one year, and 
then purchased the farm. He is a stockholder 
in the Farmers' Bank, and is one of the or- 
ganizers and a director of the Middletown 
Market Company. In politics he is a Re- 
publican. He attends the United Brethren 
chinch, of which he is a liberal supporter. 



Hite, J. C, Royalton, Pa., was born in 
Deny township, Dauphin county, Pa., Oc- 
tober 9, 1S49 ; son of Henry and Elvira 
(Coley) Hite, natives of Dauphin county. 
The lather was a farmer by occupation and 
reared nine children : Katie, wife of James 
A.Knighton.of Harrisburg; Jacob, deceased; 
Annie, wife of Jacob Espinshader, deceased ; 
J. C; Emanuel, married Miss Lydia Hamil- 
ton, and they have four children, Steelton, 
Pa.; Harry, living in Edgar county, 111.; 
Jerome, deceased ; Gabriel, deceased; James, 
married Mrs. Susan Oaks, living in Hanover 
township. 

John C. acquired his education in the 
public schools and at the academy at Pal- 
myra. When a young man he was engaged 
in farming and at the age of eighteen years 
began teaching school in the winter mouths 
and has been engaged in that occupation 
since 1867, with the exception of three years, 
during which he was in the insurance busi- 
ness. In 18S2 he moved to Royalton, from 
the Round Top mountain, where he has 
since taught school, with the exception of 
two years. He is active in political matters 
in connection with the Republican party. 
In 1890 he was elected to the office of jus- 
tice of the peace, which he has filled up to 
the present, his term of office expiring in 
May, 1896. Mr. Hite was married, in 1871, 
to Miss Mary Aungst, daughter of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Shakespeare) Aungst, of Dauphin 
county, who died in June, 1887. Their 
children are: Oliver R., Ada V., Ezra E., 
Mazie E., Lizzie N., Mable C. and Annie 
May, deceased. 



Kinsey, Samuel, Middletown, Pa., was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., August 11, 
1821; son of Jacob Kinse} r . The father was 
the first of the family to settle in Dauphin 
county. He was born and reared in Lan- 
caster county, came to Dauphin county in 
1822, and located on the farm now owned 
by Joseph Martin. He received his educa- 
tion in the Lancaster county schools and 
learned the trade of blacksmith, which he 
followed until he came to Dauphin county, 
where he engaged in farming. He held 
independent views in politics and was not 
connected with any party. His religious 
faith brought him into fellowship with the 
Dunkard church. Mr. Kinsey married Mary 
Caos, by whom he had thirteen children : 
Barbara, Nancy, Sallie, David, John, Jacob, 



778 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENGYGL OP EDI A 



Christian, Elizabeth, Samuel, Mary, Cathe- 
rine, Susan, and Margaret. 

Samuel, when very young, came with his 
parents to Dauphin county and attended the 
common schools. He has always been a 
hard-working and industrious man, and for 
a number of years was engaged in butcher- 
ing. He has been the superintendent and 
sexton of the Hillsdale cemetery for over 
forty years, during which time he has buried 
over three hundred bodies in this beautiful 
ground. In politics he is a Republican, and 
himself and family are connected with the 
United Brethren church. Mr. Kinsey was 
married, in 1847, to Miss Margaret May, 
daughter of Philip and Susan (Miller) May, 
of Dauphin county, by whom he has nine 
children : David, Sarah Ann, Fanny, Eliza- 
beth, Margaret, Barbara, Mary, Eli, and 
Katie. In 1860 he purchased the farm 
where he now resides. 



Longenecker, Christian R., farmer, Mid- 
dletown,Pa., was born in Londonderry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., December 17, 
1862; son of John S., and Margaret (Peck) 
Longenecker, of Harrisburg, Pa. He re- 
ceived his education in the public schools 
and was engaged in teaching in London- 
derry township for several years. Later he 
took up farming, which has since been his 
occupation. In the spring of 1888 he pur- 
chased his present farm of one hundred 
and eighty-three acres, where he has had 
his residence since that time. He was 
married, in 1886, to Miss Alice Ging- 
rich, daughter of Christian Gingrich, of 
Lower Swatara township, and later of Lon- 
donderry township. They have one child, 
Harry, born October 7, 1895. In politics 
Mr. Longenecker is a Republican. His wife 
is a member of the United Brethren church. 



Martin, Joseph E., farmer, Middletown, 
Pa., was born in Derry township, now Cone- 
wago township, Dauphin county, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 21, 1832 ; son of Henry Martin, native 
of Mt. Joy township, Lancaster county, Pa., 
who moved from Lancaster county to Derry 
township, Dauphin county, about 1831. He 
married Miss Catherine Eshelman, of Dau- 
phin county. In 1843 he moved into Lon- 
donderry township and settled near Red- 
seeker's Mill, where he died in 1860. His 



wife is also deceased. They were members 
of the Dunkard church and were actively 
interested in all church work. Their chil- 
dren are : Mary, not married, living at 
Elizabethtown ; Joseph E.; Barbara, de- 
ceased ; and Henry, resides in Oklahoma. 

Joseph E. received his education in the 
public schools of his native township and 
became a farmer. He was married, in 1856, 
to Susan, daughter of Rev. Mathias and 
Catherine (Heisy) Brinser. In 1857 he 
settled on the farm on which he has since 
resided. In political matters he is an ac- 
tive Republican, and has served as township 
auditor for the past six years. His family 
consisted of one daughter and three sons : 
Fannie, wife of Theo. Laverty, Middletown ; 
Samuel, at home, married Mary Horst, of 
Lancaster county ; Abraham L. B., Harris- 
burg, Pa., clerk for Dives, Pomeroy & 
Stewart, married Ellen Hersey, of Lancaster 
county; Joseph B., Middletown, school 
teacher at Royalton, Pa., married Myra 
Deal, of Lancaster county. Mr. and Mrs. 
Martin are members of the Zion's Children's 
church. 



Nissley, Jacob, Middletown, Pa., was born 
on the James Young farm, in Swatara town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., March 14, 1825; 
son of John Nissley, Jr. The grandfather, 
John Nissley, Si\, was born in Derry town- 
ship. He had three children : John, Samuel, 
and Catherine. John Nissley, Jr., the father 
of Jacob, married Miss Lizzie Roup, daugh- 
ter of Christian Roup, of Swatara township, 
by whom he had eight children : Betsy, Liz- 
zie, Sarah, Leah, Samuel, Jacob, John, and 
Martin. Jacob Nissley attended the schools 
of his native township, and remained at 
work on his father's farm for a number of 
years. After marriage he moved on to his 
his father's farm, where he remained for five 
years, having succeeded to the ownership. 
At the end of this time he sold the farm to 
James Young, since which time he has lived, 
in the locality in which he now resides. He 
married Miss Catherine Horst, daughter of 
John Horst, of Swatara township, and they 
have had eleven children, of whom eight are 
living : Fannie, Emma, Mary, John, Jacob, 
Samuel, Ellen, Annie ; Martin, deceased ; 
Catherine, deceased, and Lizzie, deceased. In 
his politics Mr. Nissley is a Republican, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



779 



has held the office of supervisor for three 
years, and also that of school director. He 
is a member of Zion's Children's church. At 
one time Mr. Nissley was engaged in the mill- 
ing business, and built the Irvin mine mill, 
near where he now lives. 



Shoop, John, carpenter, Royalton, Pa., 
was born in West Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., September 25, 1825; son 
of Samuel Shoop and Catherine (Hoover) 
Shoop. The father was an early settler of 
Dauphin county, and reared thirteen chil- 
dren, of whom two are living: John and 
George,' a resident of Dauphin county. John 
was reared in his native township and at- 
tended the country schools until he was 
seventeen years of age, at which age he 
learned the carpenter trade, and has since 
followed that occupation. He lived in West 
Hanover township until 1884, and then re- 
moved to what is now known as Royalton. 
In 1847 he married Sarah Long, daughter 
of George Long, by whom he had three chil- 
dren, of whom one is living, George, born in 
1854, at Rockville, Dauphin count)', where 
he is now living. Mr. Shoop is in fellow- 
ship with the United Brethren church. 



Peck, Levi N., farmer, Middletown, Pa. 
was born on his present homestead, July 23, 
1860; son of Christian and Anna (Nissley) 
Peck. The father was born near Marietta, 
Lancaster count}', Pa., in 1842 or 1843 ; the 
mother is a daughter of Jacob C. Nissley, of 
Londonderry township. After marriage the 
father settled on the farm now owned and 
occupied by his son, Levi N., where he lived 
until 1887, when he returned to Marietta, 
Pa., which is his present residence. His wife 
died April 1, 1881. For his second wife he 
married Miss Ella Gest. By his first wife he 
had four children : Levi N.; Emma, Mrs. 
John Ober, of Elizabethtown, Pa.; Barbara, 
wife of Aaron Booser,Steelton, Pa.; and Jacob, 
with his brother Levi. Mr. Peck is a mem- 
ber of the Democratic party, with indepen- 
dent proclivities, and has served as school 
director and as supervisor of the township. 
He is a member of the United Zion's Chil- 
dren's church. 

Levi N. received his education in the town- 
ship schools. He was married, December 9, 
1882, to Miss Mary Foltz, daughter of John 
Foltz, of Deodate, Conewago township. A fter 
his marriage he settled on the farm, where he 
now lives. He is a stockholder in the Farm- 



ers' Bank of Middletown. h\ politics he is 
a Republican and lias served as school di- 
rector for six years. His children are : Ella, 
Edith, Anna, Floy, and Christian. His 
brother Jacob was born on his present farm, 
June 21, 1873, and is a farmer by occupa- 
tion. 



Reipf, Jacob L., was born on the farm on 
which he now lives in Londonderry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., October 20, 1816; 
son of John Reiff, Jr. John Reiff, the grand- 
father, was a native of Dauphin county and 
a resident of Londonderry township, where 
he died. He was the father of eight chil- 
dren. John Reiff, the father of Jacob L., 
was born in Londonderry township in 1780, 
where he lived until his death in 1822. He 
acquired a good education for that time and 
was an active church member. He married 
Miss Fanny Riser, by whom he had four 
children : Peter, died at the age of twenty- 
one years ; Elizabeth, wife of John Kop, of 
Lancaster county ; Jacob L., and John, mar- 
ried Miss Barbara Gingerich, of London- 
derry township. 

Jacob L. was busily engaged in farming 
up to 1880, when he retired from active 
work, but is still living on his farm and has 
an oversight of all the farmer's operations. 
He is a Republican in politics, while in re- 
ligious faith and profession he is connected 
with the Dunkard church. In 1840 he was 
married to Miss Fanny Nissley, daughter of 
Martin Nissley, of Dauphin county, by whom 
lie had six children : Elizabeth, wife of 
Abram Guyer ; John N., married Miss Mar)' 
Ulch, of Dauphin county ; Martin, died in 
1869, aged twenty-four years, buried in 
Guyer's cemetery ; Catherine, wife of George 
Guyer ; Jacob, died October 9, 1876, aged 
twenty-five years, and Fanny, living at home 



Rife, J. N., Middletown, Pa., was born on 
the old homestead, January 31, 1845. He 
acquired his education in the public school 
and became a farmer. In 1S70 he moved 
to the place on which he now has his resi- 
dence. In his political sentiments Mr. Bile 
is a Republican. He was married, in 1869, 
to Miss Mary E. Ulrich, daughter of Adam 
Ulrich, of Swatara township, and to them 
there have been born two children : Mamie 
N., wife of David W. Gingrich, and Katie W., 
died July 7, 1892, aged fourteen years, and 
is buried at the Hillsdale cemetery. 



780 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Smith, Jacob, Middletown, Pa., was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa., December 3, 1805. 
He was reared and educated in his native 
county and learned the trade of cabinet 
maker. In 1834 he removed to Dauphin 
county and settled on the place where he 
now resides. He has followed his occupa- 
tion of cabinet making, and has also been 
engaged in undertaking. In his earlier 
life he was active in political matters, and is 
a member of the Republican party. For a 
term of years he served as supervisor of the 
township. Although advanced in years he 
still maintains an active membership in the 
Lutheran church, and is interested in the 
spiritual and benevolent works of his de- 
nomination. Mr. Smith was married in 
1832 to Elizabeth Russell, of Londonderry 
township. Their children are: Mary, died 
July 8, 1841, aged nine years ; Sarah, wife 
of John Wersoll, of Dauphin county ; Chris- 
tina, wife of Jacob Wanamaker, of London- 
derry township ; Elizabeth, unmarried, and 
lives with her father ; Henry, died January 
5, 1845, aged five years. Mrs. Smith died 
in March, 1863. Mr. Smith, at ninety years 
of age, is in good health and is able to cut 
wood and do much work around his home. 

Booser, Epheaim, was born in London- 
derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., Octo- 
ber 7, 1842 ; son of Jacob Bouser. Henry 
Booser, the grandfather of Ephraim, was 
born in Switzerland, and was the first of the 
family to settle in Dauphin county. He 
married Miss Goss, a native of America, by 
whom he had five children : Henry, John, 
Benjamin, Jacob and Barbara, all of whom 
are deceased. Jacob Booser, the father of 
Ephraim, was born in Londonderry township, 
in 1797, where he spent his entire life on the 
old homestead. He acquired a good educa- 
tion in the public schools and engaged in 
teaching, and was an active and consistent 
member of the Dunkard church. He mar- 
ried Miss Maria Ober, of Lancaster county, 
by whom he had seven children : Henry, 
married Elizabeth Longenecker, and lives 
in Cumberland county; Mary, wife of Sam- 
uel Foltz, of Conewago township; Jacob, 
John, Benjamin, Michael, and Abraham, all 
deceased. His wife died in 1840, and in 
1842 he married, secondly, Mrs. Elizabeth 
Brestel, widow of Michael Brestel, of Dau- 
phin county, by whom he had two children: 
Ephraim and Samuel, married Elizabeth 
Heisey, daughter of Henry Heisey, of Dau- 



phin county, and they had these children : 
Emma, deceased, Mary, Anna, Elizabeth, 
and Sarah. 

Ephraim was born on the old homestead, 
where he lived until he was about sixteen 
years old, when he went out in the world to 
make his own way. He became a farmer 
and spent his life in the township, in which 
he has filled nearly all of the township of- 
fices. In politics he is a Republican, hav- 
ing cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln, 
when he was a candidate the second time. 
He is a member of the Dunkard church. 
Mr. Booser was married, June 6, 1869, to 
Miss Maria Hamilton, daughter of "William 
and Mary Hamilton, of Lancaster county, 
by whom he has two children : Elizabeth, 
wife of Franklin Detweiler, of Dauphin 
county, and they have one child, Weigie, 
born October 20, 1893; and Alice, born Oc- 
tober 11, 1871, unmarried and living at 
home. 



LOWER PAXTON TOWNSHIP. 



Hain, Joseph, was born in Lower Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, Pa. He is a son 
of George and Sarah (Garman) Hain. The 
great-grandparents of the Hain family were 
eminent and highly respected residents of 
Lower Paxton township. Their remains 
are interred in the family lot in Sharp's 
cemetery. George Hain, grandfather of 
Joseph Hain, served efficiently as commis- 
sioner of Dauphin county from 1854 to 
1860. George Hain (2), father of Joseph, 
died at the age of seventy ; his wife, Sarah 
Garman Hain, died aged seventy-three. 
They had eleven children, of whom none 
are now living except David and George. 

Joseph Hain was a farmer, very diligent 
in the prosecution of his calling, and very 
successful. His business dealings were char- 
acterized by the highest integrity. He was 
punctual in meeting all his engagements, 
and enjoyed the utmost confidence and es- 
teem of his neighbors. He was married in 
December, 1851, to Elizabeth B. Hanshaw, 
born in Lower Paxton township, October 
20, 1832, a daughter of Samuel and Cathe- 
rine (Zimmerman) Hanshaw. Her parents 
had a family of eight children, one of 
whom died in infancy. The surviving 
children are : Susanna, wife of Peter Shaef- 
fer; Elizabeth B., wife of Joseph Hain; 
William ; Samuel; Jeremiah; Henry ; Mary, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



7S1 



wife of Samuel Alleman; and Catherine, 
wife of Solomon Stites. The parents are 
hoth dead; the mother died in April, 1879, 
aged sixty-nine, the father on March 4, 1888, 
aged eighty-three. They were widely known 
and respected citizens of Dauphin county. 

Mrs. Elizaheth B. Hain received her edu- 
cation in the public schools of her native 
township. She resided with her parents up 
to the time of her marriage with Joseph Hain. 
They had eight children; of these George 
was born August 5, 1854, and died August 
24, 1854, aged nineteen days. Their living 
children are: Henry H., born August 7, 
1855; John Joseph, December 12, 1859; 
Elizabeth R., February 27, I860, wife of 
John Unger; Catherine, June 3, 1862, wife 
of John E. Trullinger; Sarah Ann, October 
27, 1864, "wife of John E. Mumma; Ida T., 
January 9, 1869, wife of Edward M. Crune; 
and Irwin Edgar, born June 11, 1872. Mr. 
Hain was a consistent and earnest Christian, 
and a member of the German Reformed 
church. His political views were Demo- 
cratic. He was a good citizen, a kind and 
indulgent father, a devoted and loving hus- 
band. 



Crum, Amos, farmer, was born at the old 
homestead where he now resides, in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., No- 
vember 14, 1852. He is a son of William L. 
and Elizabeth (Crall) Crum. William L. 
Crum was born March 16, 1807, and was a 
farmer. His wife, Elizabeth Crall, was born 
April 27, 1811. They had thirteen children : 
Susanna, born January 10, 1832 ; Elias, May 
1,1833; Simon, August 13, 1S34; William, 
December 5, 1835; Elizabeth, August 18, 
1837 ; John H., September 2, 1839 ; Caroline, 
February 1, 1841 ; Rebecca, November 12, 
1843; Hettie, February 3, 1845; William 
H., September 22, 1846; David, October 18, 
185U ; Amos, November 14, 1852 ; one infant 
without name, died July 1, 1849. Their 
other deceased children are : William, 
died September 7, 1837 ; Simon, September, 
15, 1835; Elias, May 12,1838; Rebecca, Janu- 
ary 21, 1847 ; Hettie, January 3, I860, and 
Susanna, August 29, 1891. Of the two sur- 
viving daughters, Elizabeth is the wife of 
Theodore Heckert, and Caroline of John C. 
Forney. The mother died May 6, 18S6, 
aged seventy-three years and ten days ; the 
father died September 25, 1S89, aged eighty- 
two years, six months and nine days. 

Amos Crum was educated in the public 



schools of his native township. He worked 
on his father's farm up to the time of his 
marriage. In 1876 he commenced farming 
on his own account. In 1879 he removed 
to the old homestead where he now resides, 
having purchased the farm after his father's 
death. He was married, May 26, 1876, to 
Matilda Bright, by whom he has had four 
children. One child, Mary E., was born 
July 5, 1877, and died October 28, 1877, aged 
three months and twenty-two days. Their 
surviving children are: Tillie A., born July 
6, 1879; Carrie, February 19, 1881, and 
Jennie May, January 23, 1889. 

The parents of Mrs. Crum are both de- 
ceased. Her mother was born October 10, 
1813, and died February 21, 1891, aged 
seventy-seven years, four months and eleven 
days. Her father died May 5, 1877, aged 
sixty-three years. They had a family of 
eight children, four of whom are deceased : 
Catherine, born April 25, 1840, died January 
20, 1844; George Washington, born July 20, 
1843, died February 9, 1849 ; Sevilla, born 
March 15, 1853, died September 21, 1864; 
Adeline, wife of Daniel W. Pottieger, born 
June 18, 1845, died July 20, 1869. Their 
surviving children are: Harriet, born June 
20, 1836, wife of Augustus Shank; William, 
December 28, 1837; John, January 2, 1846, 
and Matilda, Mrs. A. Crum, January 2, 1851. 



Levan, Peter Dressler, farmer, was born 
in Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., November 10, 1856. He is a son of 
Peter K. and Mary A. (Dressier) Levan. His 
grandparents, John and Christina Levan, 
had nine children : Solomon, Anna, John, 
Charles, Elizabeth, Samuel, Chauncy, Peter 
K., and George. Peter K. was the last sur- 
vivor of their children. The parents of his 
wife, Mary A. Dressier, had thirteen children : 
Daniel, John, Samuel, David, Lydia, Reuben, 
Hannah, Solomon, Jonas, Judy, Mary Ann, 
Jacob, and William. All are deceased except 
Judy, widow of Samuel Welker. Their son, 
Samuel Dressier, became prominent in poli- 
tics in Ohio. He was a plain and modest 
man, and not being desirous of notoriety or 
prominence, he declined the nomination of 
the Republican party for governor of the 
State. 

Peter K. Levan was a farmer. He was 
born October 12, 1812, came to Dauphin 
county in the spring of 1847, and located on 
the present homestead. He was a man of 
strong convictions and energetic in the trans- 



782 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



action of his business. He was married, in 
Berks county, Pa., March 5, 1843, to Miss 
Mary A. Dressier, born July 29, 1820. They 
had "ten children, two of whom are deceased: 
Sylverrius, born April 14, 1845, died August 
5, 1849, and George Williams, born July 30. 
1864, died February 27, 1865. Their living 
children are : Anna M., born December 25, 
1846; Sarah E., October 16, 1848, wife of 
John A. Landis ; Amelia M., April 30, 1850; 
Mary J., April 22, 1853, wife of John A. 
Carmany, of Harrisburg ; Ellie M., February 
5, 1855 ; Peter Dressier, November 10, 1856 ; 
Carrie G., May 19, 1859, wife of Dr. H. R. 
Feeser; Charles Dressier, September 20, 1861. 
Peter K. Levan died June 2, 1887, in the 
seventy-fifth year of his age. His wife died 
March 4, 1894, in the seventy-fourth year of 
her age. He was a staunch Democrat. He 
and his wife were members of the United 
Brethren church, to which the family still 
adheres. 

Peter Dressier Levan received his elemen- 
tary education in the public schools of Lower 
Paxton township. At the age of nineteen he 
entered the academy at Kutztown, Berks 
county, Pa. His first business employment 
was on his father's farm. Later he became 
engaged in dealing in cattle and horses, and 
has continued in that business up to the 
present time. He is enterprising and suc- 
cessful. He is always accurately informed 
as to supply and demand, and his judgment 
is seldom at fault with regard to the actual 
and market value of live stock. 



Crum, Edward M., farmer, was born at 
the old homestead, Lower Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., September 8, 1867. 
He is a son of Jonas and Maria (Kamerer) 
Crum. His paternal grandparents are both 
deceased. The grandfather died September 
26, 1882, aged seventy-two years ; the grand- 
mother in March, 1888, aged seventy-four. 
Jonas and Maria Crum had three children : 
Minnie, wife of George A. Houck ; Emma C, 
wife of Albert W. Horstick, and Edward M. 
Both parents are living. Mr. Jonas Crum 
has served as tax collector and assessor in 
Lower Paxton township, and is a highly 
respected citizen. 

Edward M.Crum attended the publicschools 
of his native township, and at the age of eigh- 
teen went for two years to the Normal School, 
Millersville, Lancaster county, Pa. After 
this he was employed on his father's farm 
until he was twenty-two. He was then em- 



ployed by Forney Bros., shoe manufacturers, 
Harrisburg, Pa., for about three years, on a 
stitching machine. He afterwards resumed 
farming, which occupation he has continued 
up to the present time. Mr. Crum was mar- 
ried, December 22, 1892, to Miss Ida F., 
daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth B. (Han- 
shaw) Hain ; they have one child, Joseph 
Luther. A sketch of the parents of Mrs. 
Crum appears in another part of this 
volume. Mr. Crum is a staunch Repub- 
lican. He and his family are members 
of the Lutheran Reformed church. He ranks 
among the enterprising and successful farm- 
ers of the township, and is a good citizen. 



Shope, Rev. Adam J., cherishes a laud- 
able pride in his name, because it was borne 
by his paternal grandfather, whose exem- 
plary character and life inspired his love 
and reverence. The Scotch-Irish blood flows 
in his veins and it has ever been his aim in 
life to be a worthy scion of that stock so pro- 
lific of good and great men. At the time of 
his birth his parents, John A. and Elizabeth 
(Stout) Shope, were residents of Lancaster 
county, Pa. Their other children are: 
Catharine, who married Daniel Baum, and 
resides in Linglestown ; Nancy, who married 
David E. Brehm, and is living in Astoria, 
Ills., and Esther, who married Daniel Crum. 

Adam J. spent the greater part of his 
younger days on the farm in Lower Paxton 
township on which he now resides. He 
pursued the usual course in the com- 
mon schools of the township, and secured 
the training and information which the 
bright and industrious pupil ordinarily re- 
ceives from such advantages. That his 
moral and spiritual nature was developed 
along with his physical and intellectual 
faculties is shown by readiness and desire in 
early manhood to make a public profession 
of religion. He united with the German 
Baptist church (Old Brethren) and his life 
and conversation were consistent with the 
vows he had taken. Early in his Christian 
course he showed an intelligent and devout 
spirit which qualified him to be a spiritual 
leader. Two years after he had united with 
the church his brethren recognized his apti- 
tude for spiritual affairs and elected him 
deacon. He accepted this trust, and for ten 
years served efficiently and acceptably in 
this responsible position. His spirituality 
and conspicuous concern for the rescue of; 
the perishing led the church to install him 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



783 



into the ministry of the Gospel of Christ. 
This was done by vote of the whole church, 
as is. the invariable order of this fraternity. 
He has proved himself to be an able minis- 
ter of the Word, and has been a zealous 
and successful worker in the cause of his 
Master. 

At the age of twenty years Mr. Shope was 
married to Mary, daughter of Samuel and 
Mary (Litchey) Wenger, who has been an 
efficient helper and wise counsellor in his 
parochial work. Thirteen children have 
been born to them, six of whom died young. 
Their living children are : Katie, wife of 
Elias Kauffman; Elmer, who married Me- 
linda Baum ; Samuel, who married Ellen 
Miller; Lizzie, wife of John H. Walter ; Ida, 
wife of John H. Fackler, and two who are 
yet single. 



Shirk, Simon, retired farmer, was born in 
Lower Paxton township, July 20, 1827. He 
is a son of George and Mary (Lyter) Shirk. 
George Shirk was born December 24, 1798 ; 
his wife, Mary Lyter, December IS, 1795. 
They had six children : Sophia, born March 
28, 1822, died in 1858 or 1859 ; Mary Ann, 
wife of Frederick Reichert, born February 3, 
1829; Sarah, wife of Isaac Hoostick, born 
October 1,1825; Henry A., who died aged 
two years and six months. Their living 
children are Simon and Elizabeth, wife of 
Amos Houck. The father died May 3, 1862, 
and the mother November 3, 1883. 

Simon Shirk was educated in the public 
schools of his native township. At the early 
age of thirteen he was industriously at work 
on the farm. He attended school during 
the winter months up to the age of twenty- 
one. He then made farming his occupation 
and for four years was engaged in cultivating 
his father's farm. At the age of twenty-five 
he began farming on his own account and 
continued in that business until his retire- 
ment from active work. 

He was married, November 25, 1852, to 
Sarah Zieter, daughter of David and Sarah 
Stahl. Their children are three in number : 
Mary Ann, born March 14, 1854, died Jan- 
uary 31, 1862 ; Susan, born November 3, 
1856, died September 3, 1866 ; and Sarah 
Jane, born November 12, 1862, wife of 
Michael Farling, has had two children, both 
of whom died in infancy. Mrs. Shirk died 
February 6,1895, after a painful and linger- 
ing illness. She was a benevolent, hospitable 



Christian woman, beloved and esteemed by 
her many friends and neighbors. Her death 
will be a loss to those who have enjoyed her 
generous hospitality and her helpful society 
She lost her mother when she was seventeen 
days old. Her father died in 1872. 

Mr. Shirk has served three terms as school 
director and is at present treasurer of the 
school board. In 1866-67 he served one 
term as road supervisor. He is a member 
of the Shoop's (Lutheran) church. He is 
now enjoying at leisure the fruits of his early 
industry and frugality. He has the confi- 
dence and esteem of his neighbors. 



Walmer, George W., retired carpenter, 
was born in Lower Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 17, 1826. He is 
a son of David and Barbara (Gaverich) Wal- 
mer. Their six children were : Eve, wife of 
John Schaffer; George W.; Margaret, wife 
of William Calderdeck ; John ; Lydia, wife 
of Henry Forney; and one who died in 
infancy. David Walmer died in August, 
1884, aged about eighty-three; his wife died 
in September, 1889. 

George W. Walmer was educated in the 
public schools of Lower Paxton township. 
He attended school in the winter, and as- 
sisted his father on the farm, until he was 
fifteen years of age. He then went to Jones- 
town, Lebanon county, Pa., and served a 
two years' apprenticeship at cigar making; 
after which he worked at that trade on his 
own account for about six years. He then 
removed to Ohio, and was employed in farm 
work. His first year's pay was §140 ; later, 
he received §240 per year. Then he gave 
up farming, and was employed at divers oc- 
cupations. He lived for a number of years 
in Indiana. After an absence of fifteen 
years he returned to his native township. 
In 1868 he engaged in carpenter work with 
his brother John, and was employed at that 
occupation for about fifteen years. He then 
took up carpet weaving, and has carried it 
on until the present time. 

Mr. Walmer was married in East Han- 
over township, October 31, 1871, to Miss 
Sarah, daughter of Adam and Rebecca (Kit- 
tels) Gaverich. They have no children. 
Mrs. Walmer was born April 2, 1S36, and 
died October 23, 1885. Her parents are both 
deceased. They bad eight children : Elias, 
David, John, Andrew, Daniel, William, Sarah, 
who is Mrs. Walmer, and Elizabeth, Mrs. 



784 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Welpner. Mr. Walmer belongs to Lodge 
No. 629, I. 0. 0. F., of Linglestown. He is 
a member of the Lutheran church. 



Lauman, Henry, was born in Swatara 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., March 3, 
1805. He was educated in the district schools 
of Swatara township. After leaving school 
he learned the hatter's trade, at which he 
worked until his marriage. He then took 
up farming, in which he was engaged for the 
remainder of his life. He was elected to the 
office of 'director of the poor, and served for 
one term. He was married to Blanche 
Trewick, born June 10, 1807, and died Jan- 
uary 3, 1858. They had seven children, all 
of whom are deceased except one daughter, 
Anna A. Their children were: Richard T., 
born November 20, 1830, died August 8, 
1892; William, born October 22, 1833, died 
May 20, 1882 ; Ellen A., born January 14, 
1836, died in August, 1836 ; Mary H., born 
December 23, 1838, died November 20,1839; 
Anna A., born February 10, 1840, still liv- 
ing ; Walter T., born May 7, 1843, died Jan- 
uarv 25, 1844; Eliza C, born May 11, 1845, 
died July 6, 1845. 

Mr. Lauman died May 4, 1862. In busi- 
ness he was enterprising and industrious, 
prompt, exact and honorable, and from these 
characteristics it follows that he was also 
successful. His character and conduct in- 
spired his neighbors with confidence, and 
won their esteem. In social circles he was 
genial and approachable, always courteous, 
and never lacking in the amenities of inter- 
course. A strong Christian faith and de- 
vout piety rounded out his character. His 
memory is a benediction to his devoted 
daughter, and is cherished by her as a price- 
less inheritance. 

Anna A. Lauman, daughter of Henry, re- 
ceived her early education in the district 
schools of her native township. When she 
was nine years of age she attended school 
in Harrisburg. At the age of fourteen she 
entered the school of Professor Waugh, of 
Harrisburg, the liberal advantages of which 
she enjoyed for two years. After complet- 
ing her education, she lived with her parents 
until their death, and afterwards remained 
on the old homestead with her brothers, 
Richard and William. Later, she removed 
with them to West Hanover township, and 
subsequently, with her brother Richard, to 
Linglestown, where she still has her resi- 
dence. She attends the Lutheran church. 



Focht, John, was born in Berks county, 
Pa., in 1799. When he was yet a boy his 
parents removed to Dauphin county and 
settled on the farm which is now the family 
homestead, near Linglestown. He was one 
of the pioneers of Dauphin county, and was 
reared in the ways and customs of pioneer 
life. He early began to work his own way. 
Since he had no material inheritance, it be- 
came needful for him to bring into play his 
native energy and enterprise. He first 
worked upon his father's farm, and was after- 
wards industriously employed in various oc- 
cupations, as opportunities for obtaining em- 
ployment presented themselves. Among his 
earlier ventures in business was the trans- 
portation of produce and merchandise by 
team between Harrisburg and Philadelphia, 
and in several other directions as well. 
Freighting by his line was not as rapid as it 
is by rail and canal in our time, but it was 
more satisfactory in other ways. He learned 
to know every foot of the way and every 
house of entertainment on the road between 
the two cities. In good weather the trip was 
a picnic from start to finish. The company 
was good, for the best people of the country 
followed the turnpike for pleasure or profit, 
as they now follow the railroad. This stream 
of travel and transportation was also the 
news nerve of the Nation, for there were few 
newspapers and no telegraph or fast mail 
trains. In order to get the news one must be 
in touch with the turnpike. 

What wonder that the jolly freighter was 
late in settling down at home? He was 
near the age of forty-five when he married 
Catherine Buck. They had two daughters. 
Elizabeth died at the age of twenty-three 
years, five months and five days. Mary M. 
is still living. His wife died November 28, 
1870, aged about fifty-seven. Mr. Focht died 
April 15, 1882, at the age of eighty-three. 
Politically he was a Republican. He was 
a man of great force of character and of 
solid worth. The golden rule was his law 
in business and in social intercourse. 
With habits of industry and frugality he 
easily accumulated a competence, and was 
able to leave a handsome property to his 
heirs. But his best legacy to them was his 
spotless reputation and his good name. 

Mary M. Focht, sole surviving child of 
John Focht, received her education in the 
public schools. She remained with her par- 
ents until their death. In 1887 she removed 
to her present residence. Her uncle Jacob 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



7S5 



made his home with her until his death, 
which occurred January 22, 1887, in the 
seventy-seventh year of his age. Miss Focht 
is a member of the Lutheran church. 



Felty, John Solomon, farmer, was born 
at the old homestead in Lower Paxton town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., April 9, 1829. 
He is a son of John Solomon and Mary Ann 
(Becker) Felty. The elder John Solomon 
Felty was born February 27, 1799, at the old 
homestead, Lower Paxton township. He 
was a farmer and married Miss Mary Ann 
Becker, born October 6, 1823. They had 
eight children : Isamiah ; Harriet Ellen, de- 
ceased; John Solomon, Jr.; Philip ; Daniel; 
Savina, wife of Valentine Zimmerman ; 
Annie Eliza, deceased; Ann Caroline, wife 
of Thomas Crum. Mr. Felty succeeded his 
father in the ownership and occupancy of 
the homestead farm, having purchased the 
interests of his brothers and sisters. Here 
he spent his life in cultivating his ancestral 
acres. He died November 17, 1850; his 
wife October 10, 18S3. 

John Solomon Felty, Jr., began his educa- 
tion in the subscription schools. At the age 
of eight or ten he attended the public school 
of his native township. At eighteen he en- 
tered the Lititz Academy, Lancaster county, 
Pa., and studied there for two terms. He 
was also engaged in teaching ; he taught his 
first school in Lower Paxton township, when 
he was nineteen years of age. After leaving 
the academy he devoted himself to teaching 
and was employed in this profession for 
about eleven years. In 1859 he began active 
farming on the homestead with his two 
brothers, Philip and Daniel. This joint en- 
terprise was continued until the death of his 
brother Philip, which took place in August, 
1864. He and his brother Daniel then as- 
sumed the interest of Philip, and continued 
their partnership until the spring of 1888, 
when Daniel withdrew from the business. 
While cultivating the land, the brothers were 
also improving the property, making altera- 
tions for the better in the buildings and all 
appurtenances of the farm. The old home- 
stead, which has been in possession of the 
family for more than a century, is now in 
first class condition, and is one of the most 
thoroughly equipped farms in the township. 
Mr. Felty is still its occupant, and is farming 
with skill, and continuing the work of im- 
provement with skill and taste. He is en- 
dowed witli mechanical genius; his ability 



in this line is displayed in the arrangement 
of the buildings and their adaptation to 
modern methods in agriculture, and the 
conveniences and improved implements 
which lighten and facilitate labor. 

Mr. Felty was married, October 2, 1802, 
to Miss Sara A., daughter of George and 
Sarah (Fisher) Metz. Of their ten children, 
six are deceased : Jacob, born July 11,1863, 
died August 4, 1863; Franklin and Albert, 
twins, born and died May 15, 1864; Samuel, 
born April 26,1865, died February 29,1866, 
George Washington, born August 28, 1869; 
died March 17, 1870, and Sarah Ellen, born 
December 26, 1870, died December 14, 1876. 
Their surviving children are : Luther Daniel, 
born September 10, 1866; John S., March 
24, 1868; Wilson. April 27. 1873, and David 
August 30, 1876. Mr. George Metz, father 
of Mrs. Felty, died in November, 1878; her 
mother is still living. They had four chil- 
dren : Sara, Mrs. Felty; David ; Catherine, 
wife of Jacob Bishop, and Mary, wife of 
Abraham Witmer. Mr. Felty has served 
his township two terms as school director. 
He is a Republican. He and his family are 
members of the Church of God. 



Felty, John S., farmer, was born on the 
old homestead in Lower Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 24, 1868. He 
is a son of John Solomon and Sarah (Metz) 
Felty. He was reared on his father's farm, 
and received his education in the district 
schools of his native township. He assisted 
in the cultivation of the farms of his father 
and of his uncle, Luther D., until he was 
twenty-six years of age, when he began 
farming on his own account. Mr. Felty was 
married, November 25, 1893, to Sarah E. 
Brightbill. Mrs. Felty's parents are both 
living; they had six children: George, who 
was born September 6, 1869, and died aged 
seven days; John W., Andrew M., David 
E., Harry L. ; and Sarah E., who is Mrs. 
Felty. 



Grove, Samuel, carpenter and farmer, was 
born in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 23, 1828. He is a 
son of Henry and Catherine (Gaunse) Grove, 
residents of West Hanover township. Mrs. 
Grove died at about sixty-two years of age, 
and Mr. Grove at about seventy-four. They 
had eight children : Mary Ann, John, David, 
Jacob, Eliza, wife of George Myers, Sarah, 



786 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



wife of Peter Shaeffer, Catherine, wife of 
Benneville Pointer, and Samuel. 

Samuel Grove attended the public schools 
of his native township during the winter 
months until he was twenty years of age. 
At the age of eighteen he began to learn 
carpentry with Barnie Clay, of West Han- 
over township. According to the terms of 
his indenture he was permitted to attend 
school during the winter, and as wages was 
to receive six dollars per month and board. 
At the end of his apprenticeship he worked 
as a journeyman about three years, after 
which he and his brother-in-law, Peter 
Schaeffer, formed a partnership for doing 
carpenter work and building,which continued 
for one year. He then conducted business 
on his own account for about eighteen years. 
In 1867 he began farming, in which he was 
employed until 1884, when he built the house 
where he now resides. About 1856 or 1857 
Mr. Grove began to exercise his gifts as a 
local preacher. He preached his first ser- 
mon in the Church of God at Linglestown, 
Pa. Since that time he has preached at nu- 
merous places. He has always generously 
given his services on the circuit in the ab- 
sence of the minister in charge. 

Mr. Grove was married, January 1, 1852, 
to Elizabeth Friday, by whom he had three 
children : Mary Jane, born December 16, 
1852, died when about eight months old ; 
Sarah Ann, born July 30, 1856, died in in- 
fancy, and Samuel F., born August 30, 1854. 
Mrs. Grove died about July 1, 1856. He 
was married, the second time, in 1857, to 
Molly Forney. They have had nine chil- 
dren, three died early, one being as yet un- 
named ; David and Mary Ellen both died 
aged about ten months. The surviving 
children are : John E., born June 28, 1859 ; 
Christian H., October 18, 1862; Willis Sher- 
man, August 23, 1864 ; Lydia K., July 28, 
1889 ; Ellen L., February 7, 1871, and Anna 
L., July 19, 1873. The parents of Mrs. 
Molly (Forney) Grove are both deceased. 
They had six children : Mary Ann, wife of 
Jonathan Fox; Moll}', Mrs. Grove; Cathe- 
rine, Christine, Henry, Lydia and Jonathan. 
Mr. Grove has served Lower Paxton town- 
ship for one term as supervisor. His poli- 
tics are Republican and he is a member of 
the Church of God. 



of whom appears in this volume. He re- 
ceived his education in the district schools 
and at an academy. When his school edu- 
cation was finished he assisted with the work 
on his father's farm. Later he began farm- 
ing on the homestead, in connection with 
his brother John Solomon. 

Mr. Felty is industrious and energetic in 
business, and is not behind any man as to 
skill and success in farming. He is also a 
man of good taste and of strong intellectual 
faculties. He is a great lover of reading, and 
has found time in his busy life to store his 
mind with valuable information ; he has 
found his most profitable and entertaining 
society in good books. He has never mar- 
ried. He is of a kind and charitable dis- 
position, and in all business transactions is 
true to the line of honesty and justice. By 
true estimate of life he is a successful man. 
He has by industry and frugality accumu- 
lated a competence, and looks without appre- 
hension toward the evening of life. He en- 
joys the esteem of his neighbors and receives 
from them the abounding good will which 
he bestows on all. 



Felty, Luther D., retired farmer, was 
born and reared on the old homestead. He 
is a brother of John Solomon Felty, a sketch 



Goss, Martin, farmer, was born in Derry 
township, near Oberlin, Dauphin county, 
Pa., September 2, 1819. He is a son of Jacob 
and Polly (Eshelman) Goss. They were 
married March 31, 1812, and had eight chil- 
dren: Abraham, born January 18, 1813; 
Jacob, May 15, 1814; Elizabeth, July 15, 
1816 ; Michael, July 15, 1817 ; Mary, January 
13, 1818 ; Martin, September 12, 1819 ; Mag- 
dalena, March 20, 1822 ; and Barbara, Sep- 
tember 20, 1824. Mr. Goss died aged seventy- 
four years, and Mrs. Goss aged seventy-five. 

Martin Goss, in his boyhood, worked on 
the farm during the spring and summer 
months and attended school in the winter. 
He was employed by John Conrad for five 
years at farm work, at $11 per month. He 
also worked nineteen months for George 
Moon, and then was again employed by Con- 
rad for one year. He then rented Frederick 
Kelties' farm and cultivated it for eighteen 
years. He was all the time accumulating 
and laying by money. In 1863 he was able 
to own a farm and accordingly purchased 
his present homestead where he has ever 
since been engaged in farming. 

Mr. Goss was married, March 26, 1846, to 
Harriet George. Out of six children of this 
marriage,!' three are deceased: Martin and 
David, who died in infancy, and Susie, who 



DArrniN county. 



787 



lived to be five years old. The survivors are : 
Harry ; Mary, wife of Eli Umberger ; and 
Sarah, wife of Daniel Freinfrock. Mrs. Har- 
riet Goss died in 1860. In a second mar- 
riage, April 28, 18G1, Mr. Goss was united to 
Mary, daughter of Jacob and Mollie Peck 
Garrett, bv whom he had these children: 
Amos, born April 12, 1862, died in 1890 ; 
Barbara, born December 28, 1863, wife of 
David Peters; Jacob, born April 28,1866; 
George, born February 28, 1868 ; Samuel, 
born April 10, 1870; and John H., born 
June 14, 1872. The second wife of Mr. Goss 
died in 1875. He was married again, October 
10, 1S78, to Ann Whitman. They have had 
three children : Daniel W., who died in in- 
fancy ; Isaac H., born January 20, 1871 ; 
and Annie Elizabeth, October 12, 1884. Mr. 
Goss is a Republican. He is an honest and 
charitable man, and a good citizen. 



Fox, William L., farmer, was born in 
Lower Paxton township, September 16, 1859. 
He was reared on the old homestead, where 
he now resides. Winter school and summer 
work is the short story of his education and 
preparation for making his way in the world. 
The only variation in his case from the or- 
dinary course of the farmer boy is that 
school time was shorter and self-supporting 
work began earlier than with the majority 
of boys brought up on the farm. At the age 
of fourteen he was employed on the farm of 
Jonas Crum, for whom he worked about five 
years. He then returned to the home farm, 
which he worked for his mother about three 
years. Then, wishing a change of occupation, 
he went to Steelton, Pa., and found work at 
the Bessemer Steel Works, where he was 
employed about thirteen years. One more 
change he made, which was to return again 
to the homestead and resume farming, which 
has ever since been his occupation. He was 
married, February 3, 1SS0, to Emma E., 
daughter of Joseph and Barbara (Fackler) 
Cassel. They have five children : Miles M., 
born July 26, 1881 ; Pearl E., June 5, 18S3; 
Edith L., June 16, 1886; Minnie E., March 
28, 1SSS, and Beatrice O., January 28, 1S94. 

The father of Mr. Fox died in 1865, but 
his mother is still living. They had seven 
children: Louis E., Benjamin, Wesley, 
William, Annie, wife of Henry Wolf, and 
Christopher and Peter, deceased. Mr. and 
Mrs. Joseph Cassel, the parents of Mrs. Fox, 
are living. Of their ten children, two are 
deceased: Francis R. and Millard F. The 



surviving children are Emma E., Mrs. Fox ; 
Alice S., wife of John Seiders, Astoria, 111.; 
Minnie L., wife of George E. Shurtzer; Fanny 
L., wife of George Aungst; Wilson J., Lillie 
B., and Stella O. Mr. Fox is a Republican. 
His family belong to the Lutheran church. 
Mrs. Fox's parents are members of the Bap- 
tist church. 



Cassel, Joseph, carpenter and farmer, was 
born in Lower Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., February 18, 1837. He is a son 
of William and Annie (Hain) Cassel. 
William Cassel died at the age of seventy- 
three years, and his wife at the age of seventy- 
four. They had thirteen children : Eliza- 
beth, Sophia, John J., William H., Samuel, 
who died in infancy, Mary, Hannah, Joseph, 
Fannie, Catherine, Jonas, a child unnamed 
who died in infancy, and Samuel B. 

Joseph Cassel was educated in the public 
schools of his native township. At eighteen 
years of age he began to learn carpentry 
with his brother, William H. Cassel. He 
served an apprenticeship of sixteen months 
and received as his wages the sum of 
$56. After learning his trade, he worked 
as journeyman and received §16 as the 
wages of the first two months. He con- 
tinued to work at his trade until 1865. 
He was employed by the United States Gov- 
ernment in the Construction Corps. He was 
sent to Nashville, Tenn., and worked on the 
Chattanooga railroad in East Tennessee, and 
later at Atlanta, Ga., until the time of Lee's 
surrender. He then returned home, and 
worked at his trade for a year and a half 
longer. He now began business on his own 
account, and was engaged in building and 
contracting up to 1890. He built the barns 
at the count}' buildings in 1883. He bought 
his present homestead in 1870, and has had 
his residence and his principal occupation 
there up to the present time. 

Mr. Cassel was married, June 11, 1857, to 
Barbara Fackler, born December 4, 1837, 
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Mumma) 
Fackler. They have had ten children, of 
whom two are deceased : Millard Fillmore, 
born March 8, 1858, died June 6, 1858 : 
Francis R., born May 11, 1862, died May 11. 
1862. Their living children are: Fannie L., 
born November IN. 1850; Emma E., born 
April 20, 1 S.V.i : Alice S., November 4, I860; 
Minerva L., February 9, 1864; Jennie 
Nelson, May 10, 1869 ; '.Joseph W.. June 11. 
1872; Lillie B., September 15, 1875, and 



788 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Stella 0., October 2, 1880. Mr. Cassel served 
as school director for one term. He served 
two terms, in 1871 and 1872, as tax collector 
in Lower Paxton township ; he was also 
assessor for one term. He is a Republican. 
The family are members of the German 
Baptist church. Mr. and Mrs. John Fackler, 
the parents of Mrs. Cassel, are both de- 
ceased. Her father died at the age of seventy- 
three years, and her mother at the age of 
fifty-six. They had eleven children. 

Cassel, Michael H., retired farmer, was 
born on his grandfather's homestead, in 
Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., in May, 1845. He is a son of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Klein) Cassel. His great-grand- 
father, John Cassel, originally obtained a 
grant and deed from Thomas and Richard 
Penn, on October 31, 1765. The original 
tracts of land have continued in the posses- 
sion of the family down to the present time. 
Michael Cassel, grandfather of Michael H, 
was one of three children, the others were 
named Henry and Sophia. 

Jacob Cassel, father of Michael H, was 
born in 1800. His wife, Elizabeth Klein, 
was one of four children ; the others were : 
Esaias, Zephanias and Nancy. The former 
two are deceased, Nancy in the wife Israel 
Deckert, of Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa. 
Mr. Cassel died July 30, 1878. He was a 
plain man, unostentatious, honest and dili- 
gent, benevolent and kind. The cordial and 
generous hospitality of himself and his ex- 
cellent wife was greatly enjoyed by the many 
toward whom it was exercised. Mrs. Jacob 
Cassel is still living. Michael H. Cassel was 
their only child. 

Michael H. Cassel spent his early days on 
the old homestead, and received his primary 
education in the public schools of Lower 
Paxton township. He attended the academy 
of Prof. Aaron Kemble, at Harrisburg, for a 
year and a half, entering at the age of 
twelve. He was then for the same length of 
time at the Middletown Academy, under 
Prof. John Ross, uncle of the kidnapped 
Charlie Ross. After leaving school he was 
employed upon his father's farm until he was 
twenty-three years of age. He then began 
farming on his own account and has made 
this his business. He is also extensively en- 
gaged in buying and selling live stock. Mr. 
Cassel was married, August 15, 1869, to 
Emma C, daughter of Isaac and Mary (Nie- 
dig) Nissley. They have five children ; one 



of whom, Don Arthur, is deceased. Their 
living children are : Harry N., Mary E. and 
Lizzie R., who are twins, and Clara L. The 
twins and Harry N. attend the Hummels- 
town Academy. Mr. Cassel is a Democrat. 
The family attend the German Lutheran 
church. Mrs. Cassel was only three years 
old when her mother died. Her father is 
still living. They had three children, two 
of whom are deceased. Mr. Nissley was 
again married; his second wife was Cathe- 
rine Harper. They had eight children : Ira, 
Elma, Isaac Jr., Warren, Harper, Clara, Ida, 
and Cora. 



Aungst, John, farmer, was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa.., 
January 5, 1839. He was a son of John and 
Elizabeth (Bilit) Aungst. Both his parents 
are deceased ; the father died at the age of 
forty-seven years, and the mother ten years 
later. They had eight children : Daniel, 
William. Harriet, wife of Levi Runkle, Annie, 
wife of Jacob Sherk, Peter, John, Henry, 
and Sarah, wife of Daniel Strim. 

John Aungst attended school at the For- 
ney school house. He helped on the farm 
in the summer months, and went to school 
in the winter, and in this way obtained his 
education and learned his business at the 
same time. At the age of seventeen he left 
the farm for the shop. He served an ap- 
prenticeship of two years with Jacob Lyme, 
to learn carpentry, at the close of which he 
returned to the farm, and was for three years 
employed in farm work. At twenty-two 
years of age he began farming on his own 
account, and followed that occupation 
through life. Mr. Aungst has served one 
term as supervisor, and four years as school 
director. He was a Republican. The fam- 
ily are members of the German Baptist 
church. Mr. Aungst was married, October 
20, 1859, to Susanna, daughter of George 
and Dolly (Lutz) Smith, born March 17, 
1841. They have five children : George H, 
born Aoril 14, 1863 : John A., December 10, 
1864 ; Dolly J., January 13, 1873 ; Simon H. 
January 5, 1875 ; and Ezra C, July 28, 1879. 

George Smith, the father of Mrs. Aungst, 
was born on the old homestead, July 9,1817. 
He was a farmer, and continued to be ac- 
tively engaged in the cultivation of his farm 
until 1876, when he retired. His wife, Dolly 
Lutz, was born December 27, 1818, and died 
at the age of fifty-eight. Their children are: 
Susanna, born March 17, 1841, now Mrs. 



DAUnilN COUNTY. 



789 



Aungst; Samuel, born August 17, 1842, died 
October 18, 1845 ; Sarah, born July 24, 1844 ; 
Catherine, born September 21, 1846; Isaac, 
born September 22, 1849 ; Maria, born Feb- 
ruary 8, 1S52, died September 6, 1853 ; Han- 
nah, born October 28, 1854 ; and Ezra, born 
July 23, 1859. Sarah is the wife of Jacob 
Fackler, Catherine of Mundel Fackler, and 
Hannah of Samuel Fackler ; the Facklers are 
brothers. 



Kauffman, Felix, farmer, was born in 
Conewago township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
November 15, 1S42. He is a son of Samuel 
and Mary (Stivig) Kauffman. Samuel 
Kauffman was a carpenter, is also a farmer, 
and resides in Conewago township. Mr. and 
Mrs. Kauffman had nine children, three of 
whom are deceased: Henry , Elizabeth, wife 
of Rudy Harg, and one who died in infancy, 
unnamed. Their surviving children are: 
Felix ; John; Catherine, wife of Levi Moyer ; 
Nancy, wife of Peter Swartz ; Mar}', wife of 
Jacob Shearer, and Elias. Felix Kauffman 
was educated in the schools of his native 
township. At the age of seventeen he be- 
gan to make his own way in the world. He 
was hired by the month as a farm hand for 
about five years, or until he was twenty-two 
years of age. In 1864 he enlisted in the 
United States army, at Harrisburg, and was 
assigned to company F, Two Hundredth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. Cap- 
tain Hoffman was his commander. He en- 
listed for one year, and served his term. He 
was discharged May 30, 1865, at Alexandria, 
Va. He was with the army in the opera- 
tions and movements at and around Peters- 
burg, Va. He took part in two important 
engagements there, and in other minor bat- 
tles and skirmishes. He is still suffering 
from the effects of exposure during his ser- 
vice in the army. 

Returning from the war, he located in his 
native township and engaged in farming, 
on wages. In 1868 he began farming on 
his own account. In lMi'.l he removed to 
Lancaster county, and was for twelve years 
engaged in farming there. He then removed 
to his present homestead, where he has con- 
tinued to the present time. Mr. Kauffman 
was married, October 15, 1870, to Elizabeth 
G., daughter of Jeremiah and Mary ((Jieb) 
Martin. Of their three children, two are de- 
ceased : Sarah M., born August <i. 1870, died 
August 10, 1n7<>: and Alice M., born May 
25, 1873, died May 19, 1879. The surviving 



child was born December 10, 1875. Mr. 
Kauffman has served Lower Paxton town- 
ship for one term as school director. He is 
a Republican and belongs to the German 
Baptist church. 

Jeremiah Martin, father of Mrs. Kauffman, 
is still living. He married Mary Gieb, born 
July 18, 1818, died July 2, 1890. They had 
twelve children, five of whom are deceased: 
Christian, Mary Ann, Fannie, Joseph, and 
one who died in infancy. Their living chil- 
dren are: Elizabeth G., who is Mrs. Kauff- 
man, Jeremiah, Addison, Jacob, Annie, Ben- 
jamin, and Barbara. 



Felty, John S., farmer, Linglestown, was 
married to Sarah E. Brightbill, November 
25, 1893. He received his education in the 
public schools of his district. He engaged 
in farming on his father's farm until he was 
twenty-six years of age, when he began farm- 
ing for himself. The parents of Mrs. Felty 
are both living and have a family of six 
children : George, born September 6, 1869, 
deceased, John W., Andrew M., David E., 
Harry L., and Sarah E. 



Fisher, William, farmer, Progress, was 
born in Maxataning township, Berks county, 
Pa., April 28, 1818. He is a son of John and 
Susan (Wink) Fisher. The parents have 
both passed away, the father dying at the 
advanced age of seventy-seven years and the 
mother at the age of seventy one. They had 
a family of five children : William, James, 
Peter, Mary, wife of William Reno, and 
Jacob. Mrs. Fisher's parents are both de- 
ceased also, the father having died aged 
eighty-two years and the mother eighty-four 
years. They had these children: Joshua, 
Annie, Jacob, Elizabeth, Harriet, Catharine, 
William, Henry, Daniel, and George. Will- 
iam received his education iu an old log 
school house near his home. He assisted 
his father in the tailoring business for a time 
and then worked on his grandfather's farm 
until twenty-three years of age, when he 
began farming for himself. He lived in 
Maxataning township for eight years, and in 
1849 moved to Dauphin county, and located 
on the old Baer farm, which he purchased 
and cultivated ten years. He then sold the 
farm and rented a small place in Lower 
Paxton where he stayed two years. He next 
bought a farm near Linglestown, where he 
remained three years and then sold it and 
purchased his present homestead in lSiil. 



?90 



Bl GR.A PHI GAL EtfCTCL OPE MA 



'Iti 1874 he built his present residence. He 
was married in May, 1841, to Catharine 
Levan, and their children are : John L., 
Catharine, wife of John H. Sheesley, and 
George L. 



Hocker, Joseph, farmer, was born in 
Lancaster county, Pa., February 19, 1839, 
and is a son of George and Mary Maria 
(Brubaker) Hocker. The father was born 
September 15, 1810. and died ill 1872 ; the 
mother was born March 5, 1815, and died 
just one day after her husband. Their re- 
mains are interred in one grave at Crurn's 
church cemetery. They had a family of 
twelve children : Annie Maria, born Febru- 
ary 20, 1835 ; Lydia, born October 10, 1837 ; 
Joseph ; Martin, born November 10, 1840 ; 
Emanuel, born July 11, 1842; Wilhelmina 
Jane, born December 24, 1845 ; Mary Eliza- 
beth, born June 12, 1847 ; Susan Emma, 
born August 16, 1849; George Benjamin, 
born October 17, 1851 ; Henry Harrison, 
born February 1, 1854 ; Samuel Augustus, 
born March 27, 1856; Lizzie Ellen, born 
June 7, 1859. Four of the children: Annie 
Maria, Emanuel, Susan Emma, and Wilhel- 
mina Jane, are all deceased. Mrs. Hocker's 
parents are both deceased, the father died at 
the age of seventy-eight and the mother at 
the age of fifty-eight years. They had a 
family of eight children : Jacob, Elizabeth, 
Barbara, Samuel, Kate, Mary, Annie, and 
Lydia. Annie and Barbara are deceased. 

Joseph received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of Lancaster and Dauphin coun- 
ties. He assisted on his father's farm until 
he was twenty-six years old, when he began 
farming for himself in Upper Swatara town- 
ship. After living in various places for a 
few years he removed to the Paxtraia Hotel, 
on the Jonestown Road, where he remained 
ten years. In 1891 he purchased his present 
homestead. He was married, September 13, 
1864, to Lydia (Keller) Hocker, daughter of 
Samuel and Katie (Shoop) Hocker. Their 
children are : George Albert, born April 14, 
1869 ; Samuel Milton, born February 6, 
1871; Joseph Edwin, born December 4, 
1873; and Katie Florence, born July 31, 
1888. In politics Mr. Hocker is a Republi- 
can. The family are members of the United 
Brethren church. 



Lyter, Samuel, farmer, Penbrook, was 
born on the old homestead, May 9, 1845, in 
Lower Paxton township. He is a son of 



Christian and Barbara (Shope) Lyter. The 
parents of Mr. L} r ter had a family of ten 
children : Kate, Mary, Esther, Joseph, Sarah, 
Isabella, Barbara, Susanna, Samuel, and one 
who died in infancy. The father of the first 
wife is deceased, but the mother survives. 
Their children are: Emma, Samuel, Sarah, 
Frank, Ellen, and two deceased. The par- 
ents of the second wife had these children : 
John, Adam, Elizabeth, Daniel, Samuel, 
Annie, William, and Emma. The parents 
of Mrs. Lyter had a family of eleven chil- 
dren: Lydia, Peter, Ellen, Carrie, Charles, 
Aaron, Annie, Moses, Amelia, John and Al- 
bert, both of whom have passed away. 
Samuel attended the public schools of his 
native place until sixteen years of age, 
when he began farming. When twenty- 
eight years old he worked his father's farm 
on his own account, and in 1888 he pur- 
chased the old homestead, where he now re- 
sides. He was married, in 1873, to Miss 
Emma Page, daughter of Daniel and Mary 
Page, by whom he had two children: Jacob 
Edward, died in infancy, and Sallie A., wife 
of William Kiefer. He married, secondly, 
Miss Elizabeth Rabuck, daughter of John 
and Mary Rabuck. Their children are : Mary 
M., Barbara L., John H., and Katie J. He 
married, thirdly, Miss Annie, daughter of 
Daniel and Amelia Lyter. They had a 
family of five children: Charles, Martin, 
Harrison, Carrie, all deceased; and Agnes 
Louisa and Elsie Ruth. In politics Mr. 
Lyter is a Republican. 

Look, Monroe M., farmer, Progress, was 
born July 12, 1862, on the old homestead ; 
son of George and Annie (Meyers) Look, 
daughter of Christian Meyers. The father is 
deceased and the mother now resides at 
Oberlin. They had a family of seven chil- 
dren : Reuben, deceased, John, deceased, 
Jane, Sarah, George, Emma, John, and Mon- 
roe. Mrs. Look's mother died February 19, 
1890, and is survived by her husband. The 
parents had these children : Jeremiah, Ellen, 
Earl, John, Kate, all of whom are deceased, 
and Mary. William, Wellington, and Annie. 
Mr. Look received his education in the public 
schools of Lower Paxton township and then 
until he was twenty-three years old assisted 
his father on the farm. At that age he be- 
gan farming for himself and has been thus 
engaged ever since. He was married, Oc- 
tober 7, 1886, to Miss Mary A. Zimmerman, 
daughter of William and Sarah (Guldin) 



I 





S^UX^ . //. /H^^c, 






r '7^^£ 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



793 



Zimmerman, by whom he has one child, 
Morris M., born May 18, 18S7. He is a 
Republican, and the family are members of 
the United Brethren church. 



Miller, Samuel A., farmer, was born in 
Lower Pax ton township, January 16, 1843, 
and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Frantz) 
Miller. The father's first wife, by whom he 
had two children, died in 1845, at the age of 
twenty-three years. His second wife was Miss 
Maria Mader, who died December 24, 1888. 
Mrs. Miller's father M*as born December 9, 
1819, and died January 25, 1869, and the 
mother was born January 10, 1826, and died 
September 5, 1875. Samuel A. first attended 
the public schools of his native township, 
and at the age of seventeen entered White 
Hall Academy, in Cumberland county, Pa. 
He next attended Collegeville Seminar}' in 
Montgomery count}-, Pa., for four terms, 
when he received a teacher's certificate from 
Prof. Hunsicker. He then taught school in 
Susquehanna township for four years, at 
Sinking Springs, Berks county, Pa., one year, 
and two terms in Lower Pax ton township. 
In 1870 he engaged in farming, and since 
that time has continued in the same occupa- 
tion on his present homestead. He was mar- 
ried, September 16, 1869, to Sarah C. Fox. 
They have no children. Mr. Miller was 
elected secretary of the Dauphin County Mu- 
tual Fire Insurance Company in 1882, and 
has served in that capacity until the present 
time. He has been auditor and also school 
director. He is a member and past grand 
in Shellsville Lodge, No. 1,0S0, I. 0. 0. F., 
and a member of the Grand Lodge of Penn- 
sylvania, I. 0. 0. F., and also a member of 
the Farmers' Alliance. Politically he is a 
Republican. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the United Brethren church. 



Miller, John, farmer, was born in Lower 
Paxton township, August 15, 1815, and is a 
son of Andrew and Ann (Good)Miller, daugh- 
ter of Franz and Elizabeth Neidig Good. 
Mr. Miller is one of a family of eleven chil- 
dren and only two of them survive. He re- 
ceived his education inthe private schools of 
Harrisburg, and after leaving school went to 
New Cumberland, Cumberland county, to 
learn the milling business with David Etn- 
mert, in 1835. Havingacquired agood knowl- 
edge of thebusiness he returned to Lower Pax- 
ton township and assisted in his father's mill. 
In 1840 he engaged in business for himself, 
5i 



and continued up to 1850, when he sold his 
interest in the mill and began farming, 
which occupation he followed until 1870, at 
which time he retired from active work. He 
was married, in 1840.to Miss Elizabeth Frantz, 
who died September 11, 1844. Their chil- 
dren are : Samuel A., and Mary, who died 
at the age of nine months. He married, 
secondly, Miss Maria Mader, daughter of 
Daniel and Catherine Mader. They have 
no children. In politics he is a Republican, 
and the family are members of the Bethel 
church. 



Moyer, Benjam*n F., teacher and farmer, 
was born in Lower Paxton township, Sep- 
tember 9, 1841, and is a son of Daniel and 
Rebecca (Gettle) Moyer. 

The parents are both deceased. The 
father was born June 10, 1797, and served 
as bugler in a company of United States cav- 
alry. He participated in the military parade 
at Harrisburg at which General Lafayette 
was present. When twenty years of age he 
learned the trade of milling, which he fol- 
lowed for a time and then engaged in farm- 
ing until 1872. 

Mrs. Moyer's parents are also deceased. 
They had a family of four children, viz: 
Mrs. Moyer ; Emma J., wife of Peter Fox ; 
David ; Martha, and Caroline, deceased. Her 
father was married a second time and had 
two children by this marriage, viz : Susan, 
and Matilda, deceased. 

Benjamin F. received his education in the 
public schools until he was twenty years of 
age, when he attended the academy at 
White Hall, Cumberland county. Later he 
attended the Palmyra Academy, Lebanon 
county, under Professor Witmer. He as- 
sisted for a time in his father's mill and then 
engaged in farming, but at the same time 
taught school during the winter. In 1867 
he began farming on his own account, and 
has continued up to the present time. At 
the urgent request of the school directors of 
his district he taught school for twelve win- 
ters, beginning in 1869, and in 1895 be be- 
gan teaching again. He was married De- 
cember 17, 1866, and has a family of five 
children : Joseph D., born November 5, 
1868, and died September 22, L869; Sarab 
Jane, born March 9, 1 S 7J. and died April 3, 
L890; Laura Irene, born October 1,1870; 
Xevin \\\. bom May 28, L876; Cora M., bora 
March 30, 1881. Mr. Moyetserved efficiently 
as justice of the peace in Lower Paxton town- 



794 



BIO GRA PHI C A L ENCYUL 0PED1A 



ship for one term. He is a Democrat in poli- 
tics and a member of the Independent Order 
of Odd Fellows at Wellsville. The family 
attend the German Reformed church. 



Nye, Daniel Henry, farmer, Progress) 
Dauphin county, Pa., was born in Palmyrai 
Londonderry township, Lebanon county; 
July 23, 1844, and is a son of Solomon and 
Mary (Bowman) Nye. The mother died Oc- 
tober, 1895, aged seventy-three years, and the 
father still survives. They had a family of 
ten children : Samuel, deceased ; John M., 
deceased ; Lizzie, deceased ; Daniel Henry, 
Christian, William, Mauy, Joseph, Emma, 
and Jacob. The parents of Mrs. Nye are 
both deceased and had these children : 
Annie, Louisa, George, Samuel, Clemens, 
Sadie, all deceased, and Jacob, who has not 
been heard from for twelve years; Serena 
F., Mary, Sarah, and Susan. 

Daniel Henry attended the public schools 
of his native place until he was twenty-one 
years of age, and then went to the Palmyra 
Academy for three years. He taught school 
four terms in Palmyra, and in 1869 was ap- 
pointed postmaster of that town by President 
Grant. This position he held seven consecu- 
tive years, and resigned in November, 1875. 
In 1872 and 1873 he served as tax collector 
of Londonderry township. Being elected 
recorder and clerk of the court in 1875 by a 
very large majority he entered upon the 
duties of the office on January 1, 1876, and 
served three years. He has also served as 
school director. In 1879 he engaged in 
farming, and moved in 1891 to his present 
homestead, where he has followed that occu- 
pation up to the present time. On February 
5, 1863, he enlisted in company J, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, in Harrisburg, under Cap- 
tain McMullin, of Lancaster, and Colonel 
Boyd. After being stationed in Carlisle, 
Chambersburg and various other places his 
regiment went to Alexandria, Va., where 
they embarked for Port Royal, S. C. He 
participated in the conflicts at Spottsylvania, 
the Wilderness and Cold Harbor. At the 
latter place his right arm was shot away, 
being struck by an eight-inch shell. He was 
honorably discharged on February 5, 1865. 
He was married, February 20, 1868, to 
Serena F. UHg, by whom he has nine chil- 
dren : Aurora B., born April, 1875, and died 
August, 1875 ; Allen B., born September 13, 
1875, and died April, 1877 ; Amasa, born 
January 14, 1870; Annie M., born March 



29, 1871 ; Alma Lacy, born January 24, 
1873 ; Aaron, born January 24, 1878 ; Dan- 
iel B., born May 7, 1882 ;" Serena B., born 
March 29, 1886, and Benjamin Harrison, 
born May 24, 1889. The family are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church. 



Painter, David, blacksmith, Linglestown, 
Dauphin county, Pa., was born at Womels- 
dorf, Heidelburg township, Berks county, 
July 8, 1840. He is a son of Jacob and Bar- 
bara (Hassler) Painter. The parents have 
both passed away; the mother in October, 
1877, at the age of eighty-one, and the father, 
February, 1881, aged eighty-one or eighty- 
two. The father was a moulder by trade 
and also farmed for twenty years. By his 
industry and economy he acquired a com- 
petency for his old age. He was a consistent 
Christian. His family consisted of thirteen 
children, five of whom, Robert, Emeline, 
Barbara, Stephen, and Samuel, are deceased. 
The surviving ones are : Joseph, Jacob, 
Thomas, Valentine, Pricilla, Sarah, Eliza- 
beth, and David. The father of Mrs. Painter 
died February 29, 1894, and the mother 
died at the age of twenty-seven years. They 
had only one child. The father by his sec- 
ond marriage had two children. 

David received his education in the pay 
school and later in the public schools of his 
native township. At the age of twenty-one 
he began the blacksmith trade with his 
brother Jacob in Lower Paxton township. 
He enlisted in company C, First Penn- 
sylvania light artillery, under Captain 
Simpson and Major West. He served with 
distinction during the Peninsula campaign 
and at Yorktown, Williamsburg, and Fair 
Oaks ; also at Harper's Ferry, and was dis- 
charged at Manorin Junction, Md. He then 
returned to West Hanover township and en- 
gaged in blacksmithing at Manada Furnace 
for three years and a half, when he removed 
to Colebrook, Lebanon county. Here he 
was engaged in farming for a time but soon 
moved to Lebanon city and worked at his 
trade. He next worked at Manada Furnace 
for five years, and then moved to his present 
home in Lower Paxton. He was married at 
Linglestown, March 8, 1866, to Miss Mary, 
daughter of Peter and Sarah (Powley) Bright- 
bill. They have a family of eleven children, 
two of whom have passed away : Jennie, 
born August 5, 1882, and died April 19, 
1883 ; Elizabeth, born January 22, 1867, and 
died in infancy. The surviving ones are : 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



795 



Emma, born May 4, 1868, wife of Harry 
Smith; Margaret, born August 31, 18(19, 
wife of Harry Meyer; Marv, born December 
22, 1870; Sarah, born January 14, 1873; 
Valentine, born September 26, 1875 ; Cath- 
arine, born October 25,1877; Susan, born 
January 21, 1880 ; David, born March 5, 
1881, and Bessie, born December 16, 1885. 
Mr. Painter is a staunch Republican and is 
now serving his second term as supervisor. 
The family are members of the Methodist 
church. 



Reimert, Hiram, plasterer and butcher, 
was born in Pottsville, Schuylkill county, 
April 5, 1834. He is a son of Samuel and 
Susanna (Spoon) Reimert. The father was 
born August 25, 1813, and died at the age of 
sixty-two years ; the mother was born July 
18, 1812, and died at the age of sixty-three 
years. Their children are: Hiram, Hezekiah, 
Louisa, John, William, Annie, George Wash- 
ington, and Oliver. Mrs. Reimert's mother 
died at the age of forty-eight, and the father 
survives. Their children are : Mary Ann 
Christ, George, Samuel, Edward, John, Daniel, 
Benjamin, Henry, and Emma. Hiram re- 
ceived his education in the public schools of 
Schuylkill and Dauphin counties. He aided 
his father on the farm and at the business of 
butchering for a time, and in 1851 he began 
the trade of plasterer with Henry Hoffnagle, 
of Linglestown. After following his trade 
for twenty-one years, including his appren- 
ticeship, he began the butcher business at 
Linglestown. He has served as tax collector 
of Lower Paxton township; was a charter 
member of Lodge No. 629, 1. 0. 0. F., Lingles- 
town, withdrew and helped to organize the 
Shellsville Lodge, No. 1,080, I. O. 0. P., of 
which he is now past grand. He was mar- 
ried, February 12, 1863, to Miss Mary Ann 
(Knupp) Reimert, daughter of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Eshnauer) Knupp. Their chil- 
dren are: John H., born May 7, 1864; George 
Washington, born September 26, 1867 ; Mary 
A., born November 11, 1872, wife of Harvey 
M. Juillard. Mrs. Reimert attends the United 
Brethren church, while her husband and 
children attend the German Reformed 
church. 



in the Seventeenth Pennsylvania cavalry 
under Capt. Andrew Vand, and died in the 
Regimental Hospital from a sickness con- 
tracted while in the service. The mother 
died August 13, 1891, aged sixty-five years. 
They had a family of six children: Joseph, 
deceased; Elias, deceased ; Emma, deceased ; 
James, born September 28, 1853 ; Robert L., 
and John, born March 4, 1858. Mrs. Reed's 
parents are both deceased. The mother died 
at the age of twenty-seven, and two years 
later the father married Miss Mary Swartz. 
The children by the first marriage are : Eliza- 
beth, Millard Fillmore, and Josephine; and 
by the second: Henry Clay, Fannie A., Lin- 
coln, Harriet, Naoma, and Edith. The father 
died September, 1882, at the age of sixty-four 
years. 

Robert L. received his education in the 
place of his birth until he was nine years old, 
then attended the school of the Soldiers' 
Orphans' Home, at White Hall, Cumberland 
county. Later he attended the Loysville Or- 
phans' Home, in Perry county, and then re- 
turned to his mother in Buffalo township, 
Perry county, and assisted on the farm until 

1877. For a time he was engaged in brick- 
making in Center township, Perry county, 
and in 1878 removed to Ohio, where he was 
engaged as a teamster until 1879, when he 
removed to his native county and located at 
Millerstown. Some time afterward he farmed 
for seven years in Perry county, and in De- 
cember, 1889, engaged in railroad business 
as foreman, removing to Harrisburg in 1890. 
They purchased the present homestead in 
October, 1895. He was married, March 13, 

1878, to Josephine Clouser, daughter of Fran- 
cis B. and Mary J. (McCullough) Clouser. 
Their children are: Francis Irvin, born 
April 7, 1880; Naoma Edith, born July 28. 
1883; Charles Hamburg, born May 2, 1889, 
Mr. Reed is a member of the Knights of St. 
John and Malta, No. 93, of Harrisburg. In 
politics he is a Republican. The family are 
members of the Methodist church. 



Reed, Robert L., carpenter and farmer, 
Linglestown, Dauphin county. Pa., was born 
in Liverpool township, Perry county, April 
12, 1856. He is a son of Elijah and Mary 
(Cram) Reed. The father enlisted in 1862 



Ricker, Uriah, retired tanner and farmer, 
was born in Swatara township, January 27. 
1836. He is a son of John S. and Catharine 
(Snyder) Ricker. The father was a native 
of Franklin county, and his grandfather 
served as a teamster in Washington's army. 
At the age of sixty-four years the father 
died, and the mother passed away in May. 
1867. They had six children, two of whom 
died in infancy: Alfred, deceased; Cathe- 



796 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



rine, wife of Alexander Klink ; Mary, wife 
of Henry Koof, living in Oklahoma, and 
Uriah. Mrs. Ricker's father died in March, 
1863, and her mother October 7, 1852. 
Their family consisted of seven children, 
all of whom, except Mrs. Bicker, are de- 
ceased. They are: Catherine, Mary, Eliza- 
beth, Fanny, Abraham, and Molly. 

Uriah received his education in the public 
schools of his native township. He learned 
the business of tanning with his father, 
whom he succeeded at the age of twenty- 
one years, and continued until the begin- 
ning of the war, when he sold the tannery 
to Emanuel Fox. He then moved to Lower 
Paxton township and engaged in farming 
for four years, when he moved to New Kings- 
ton, Cumberland county, Pa., where he 
farmed on his father's farm. Losing all his 
stock and property by fire he returned to 
Lower Paxton township, and farmed for his 
father-in-law until the latter's death in 1875. 
He then purchased the farm on which he 
lived and continued farming there until 
1886, when he retired. He was married, in 
1856, to Barbara Sheetz, daughter of Messiah 
and Susan (Baker) Sheetz. They have a 
family of fourteen children : Raymond E., 
born June 6, 1858, deceased ; Mary Eliza- 
beth, born May 2, 1860, wife of Jacob Kline; 
Catharine, born July 23, 1861, wife of E. D. 
Wright ; Willis, deceased, born April 2, 1863 ; 
Uriah Monroe, deceased, born October 7, 
1864 ; Ambrose, born April 25, 1866 ; Thias, 
deceased, born June 7, 1868; Laura Ann, 
born November 15, 1869, wife of John Sny- 
der; Mannasah, deceased, born July 29, 
1872; Agnus M., born August 15, 1873, wife 
of Noah Wisler ; Samuel, deceased ; Norman, 
deceased ; Freeman, deceased ; Elmer, de- 
ceased. Mr. Ricker is a Republican and has 
served on the school board. He and his 
family are members of the United Brethren 
church. 



Shope, Jacob, son of Abraham and Eliza- 
beth ( Wasser) Shope, was born September 6, 
1819, in Lower Paxton township, DaUphin 
county, Pa. His mother was the daughter 
of Dr. John L. Wasser, who was ship-surgeon 
on a Swiss vessel, and emigrated to America 
in 1769. His advantages of an early educa- 
tion were limited, and at the age of sixteen 
entered the office of the Gospel Publisher as 
an apprentice in the art of printing. He 
subsequently took charge of the office as 
foreman, then spent some time at Philadel- 



phia, when returning to Harrisburg he there 
remained until the spring of 1840. He com- 
menced the study of medicine with his 
uncle, Dr. David Shope, and began the 
practice of medicine in 1842, and upon the 
death of the latter located at Hummelstown, 
taking charge of the large practice left by 
the former. Until 1865 he continued in the 
active prosecution of his profession, and with 
much success. Dr. Shope married, in 1843, 
Esther, daughter of E. J. Mann, of Hum- 
melstown. Their children were: Charles 
David, who, at the age of seventeen, enlisted 
in the Seventh regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers ; was severely wounded in the hip at 
Gettysburg ; subsequently rejoined his com- 
mand ; promoted sergeant of Colonel Mc- 
Coy's regiment, and killed in front of Peters- 
burg, June 19, 1864; Elizabeth, Ernest 
Mann, Ada Esther, Agnes May, and Carrie 
Lenah. 



Shope, David, son of Jacob Shope, was 
born July 25, 1808, in Lower Paxton town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa. His grandfather, 
Andrew Shope, emigrated from the Palati- 
nate, Germany, to America, arriving at 
Philadelphia October 22, 1754, on the ship 
" Halifax " from Rotterdam. He settled in 
what was then Lancaster county, married 
and was in service during the French and 
Indian war. He had three sons : Bernhard, 
Jacob, and Adam. He first married and re- 
moved to Centre county, where his descend- 
ants now reside. Jacob and Adam divided 
the farm, the former of whom subsequently 
disposed of his, the latter dying on the old 
homestead at the age of ninety-one years. 
Jacob Shope, who lived to the age of eighty- 
seven, married a Miss Hart, and their chil- 
dren were : Abraham, Jacob, Bernhard, Da- 
vid, Barbara, Mary, Elizabeth, and Catherine. 
David worked on his father's farm until the 
age of sixteen, receiving such educational 
advantages as the country schools then af- 
forded. He was afterwards sent to a select 
school in Cumberland county, and also that 
taught by Mr. Cummings at Brown's school 
house on the Jonestown road. He taught 
school several terms, and at the age of nine- 
teen began the study of medicine with Dr. 
Markley, of Manheim, Lancaster county, 
Pa., and after the latter's death with his 
successor, Dr. Veasey. In October, 1832, he 
located at Hummelstown, where he contin- 
ued in the successful practice of his profes- 
sion until his death, December 2, 1842, at 



. DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



797 



the age of thirty-four years, and is buried in 
the Ilummelstown cemetery. Few prac- 
titioners stood higher in the confidence and 
esteem of the community in which he lived 
than Dr. David Shope. He never married. 



Shadel, David F., farmer and butcher, 
Linglestown, was born at Lykens, January 
6, 1858. He is a son of Henry H. and Mary 
S. (Matter) Shadel. The father died No- 
vember 23, 1S83, aged about forty-five years. 
He was an earnest Christian, and had a 
family of seven children : Luther, deceased, 
Sarah C, Christia, Harry B., Charles G., 
Louis, and Howard. The father of Mrs. 
Shadel died July 21, 1883, and the mother 
survives. Their children are: Edward, Jo- 
seph, Jacob, Mary, Lydia, Henry, and Samuel. 
David F. received his education in the public 
schools of Washington and Middle Paxtou 
townships. He lived with his grandparents 
until nine years old, then went home and 
remained with his parents until the age of 
seventeen. He was engaged in various oc- 
cupations until 1884, when he purchased 
his present homestead. He was married, 
January 30, 1879, to Miss Elizabeth R. Rye, 
daughter of Peter and Rebecca Rye. They 
have two children, Annie M. and Henry E. 
His wife died February 8, 1893. Her par- 
ents are both deceased and had five chil- 
dren : Annie, Fannie, Elizabeth, deceased, 
Ephraim, deceased, and Katie, deceased. 
On June 7, 1894, Mr. Shadel married, sec- 
ondly, Miss Mary M. Rye, cousin of his 
former wife. 



Smith, William C, M. D., Linglestown, 
was born at Annville, Lebanon county, Pa., 
October 9, 1828. He is a son of Conrad and 
Susanna N. (Ensminger) Smith. The grand- 
father served as an officer in the Revolution- 
ary army. The father died at Hummels- 
town at the age of ninety years and the 
mother at the age of fifty-six years. Dr. 
Smith received his primary education at 
Ilummelstown and attended the Annville 
Academy for six months. He then returned 
to Hummelstown and began the study of 
medicine with Dr. John Stably, with whom 
lie remained three years, and at the same 
time attended lectures at the University of 
Pennsylvania, from which institution he 
graduated on April 8, 1850. He then located 
in Hummelstown for one year, then in Lin- 
glestown and Middletown each for one year. 
He next returned to Linglestown and lias 



continued the practice of his profession there 
up to the present time. During the war he 
treated with remarkable kindness the fami- 
lies of the brave defenders of our Union. In 
1866 he was instrumental in securing the 
funds necessary for the erection of the sol- 
diers' monument in the Willow Grove ceme- 
tery, dedicated to the brave soldiers of Lower 
Paxton, West Hanover, East Hanover and 
Susquehanna townships. He was married, 
in 1850, to Miss Hanna A. (Care) Smith, 
daughter of John and Sarah (Geiger) Care. 
Their children are : Edward C, deceased, 
William C, deceased, Charles H., M. D., and 
Jeremiah P., M. D. Dr. Smith also greatly 
assisted in the establishment of Union chapel 
of Linglestown, which is used by the German 
Baptist, Methodist Episcopal and Lutheran 
denominations, and the Union Sabbath - 
school which meets each Sunday. 



Strock, John H., instructor and principal 
of the Linglestown select school, was born in 
West Hanover March 21, 1846, and is a son 
of Jacob and Catharine (Hurtz) Strock. The 
grandfather, Jacob Strock, Sr., was born De- 
cember 15, 1785, in West Hanover, was a 
farmer by occupation and died February 28, 
1834. The father, Jacob, Jr., was born No- 
vember 9, 1814, and died June 11, 1879. 
He learned the trade of shoemaking with 
John Shakespeare, near Hornerstown, South 
Hanover township, and followed it his entire 
life. He was a consistent Christian and his 
wife survives him. They had a family of 
three children : Angelina, wife of Jacob 
Karnerer ; John H., and Catharine, wife of 
Edward Hetrick. The parents of Mrs. 
Strock are both deceased, the father having 
died in October, 1891, and the mother on 
February 10, 1887. They had these chil- 
dren : Catharine; Mary, wife of John H. 
Naecker; Sarah E.; Annie, wife of Dr. T. P. 
Batdorpf; Ira W., living at Oberlin ; Ella, 
wife of Edward Lingle; Susanna, wife of 
Joseph A. Stober; Emma, wife of Mor- 
ris Tobias; Lillie, wife of John Tanner; 
Maggie, wife of Jacob Burkheimer; Minnie, 
wife of William Look ; and two children who 
died in infancy. 

John H. received his primary education 
in the public schools of West Hanover town- 
ship. At the age of sixteen he attended a 
select school taught by David Shope and 
then went for one term to the St. Thomas 
[n9titute at Linglestown. He next attended 
the Millersville State Normal Seliool in Lan- 



798 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



caster county. After teaching school at va- 
rious places for about ten years he engaged 
in the retail boot and shoe business, at 
Linglestown, with Michael Forney, of the 
well known firm of Forney Brothers, shoe 
manufacturers, Harrisburg. He soon pur- 
chased the entire business and continued 
until 1884, when he began teaching again. 
In 1887 he established a select and normal 
school. He also assisted in the incorpora- 
tion of the Dauphin County Fire Insurance 
Company and served as its secretary for five 
years. 

In 1874 he was elected justice of the peace 
for five years and was twice re-elected. In 
1887 he was appointed postmaster of Lingles- 
town, and at the expiration of his service in 
that capacity was again elected justice of 
the peace. He was married, on October 

4, 1870, to Sarah E. Yeager, daughter of 
William and Catharine (Focht) Yeager. 
They have a family of six children : Luther 
Wesley, born September 6, 1874, and died 
June 4, 1878 ; Sarah Elmira, born Novem- 
ber 6, 1877, and died May 20, 1881 ; Katie 
Sa villa, born October 3, 1871, an accom- 
plished musician ; Lydia Anna, born De- 
cember 23, 1872 ; Maggie Viola, born March 

5, 1 879, and Harry Blaine, born January 24, 
1887. Mr. Strock is a member of Lodge 
No. 629, I. 0. 0. F. and of the Jr. 0. U. A. 
M., No. 680, Linglestown. He and his fam- 
ily are members of the Lutheran Evangeli- 
cal church. 



dren : Sarah, Grace, and Hannah. He is a 
member of the Dauphin County Medical 
Society, and a very prominent and success- 
ful practitioner. 



Smith, Charles H., M. D., was born in 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, Pa., August 
9, 1851, and is a son of Dr. W. C. Smith and 
Hannah (Care) Smith. The grandfather 
Smith was of German descent, and came to 
America in 1761, and was a conspicuous sol- 
dier in Peter Grubb's company during the 
Revolutionary war. He believed that 
" vincit amor patriae." The maternal grand- 
father was of English descent, and settled 
prior to the Revolution in Hopewell, Ches- 
ter county. With the crude facilities at his 
command he cast cannons to be used by 
Washington. Charles H. received his early 
training in the public schools and later at- 
tended Dickinson Seminary at Williams- 
port. Here he prepared for the University 
of Pennsylvania, from which institution he 
graduated in 1872. He located at Lingles- 
town, and practiced with his venerable 
father for several years. He- married Miss 
Laura E. Unger, and they have three chil- 



Unger, John J., farmer, Linglestown, was 
born in Lower Paxton township on the old 
homestead, June 14, 1858. He is a son of 
John G. and Sarah (Wolf) Unger. The 
father died July 21, 1889, and the mother 
March 5, 1887. They had a family of eight 
children: Mary, deceased ; David, deceased; 
Annie, deceased; Susan, wife of Andrew 
Brightbill; Laura E., wife of C. H. Smith; 
John J., George A. and David E. John J. 
received his primary education in the pub- 
lic schools of his native township. He then 
assisted his father on the farm until twenty- 
three years of age, when he began farming 
on his own account, and has continued up 
to the present time. He married Miss Re- 
becca E. (Hain) Unger, November 18, 1880. 
Their children are : Ira Leroy, born April 
14, 1882; Anna Edith, born January 28, 
1884 ; John Elias, born December 27, 1886. 
He is a Democrat, and the family are mem- 
bers of the German Reformed church 



Crum, Sarah Jane, widow of John Crum, 
was born in Lower Paxton township, April 
1, 1845. She is a daughter of Samuel and 
Hanna Rhadel (McElhenny) Crum. The 
father passed away in July, 1862, and his 
wife a few weeks later. They had these chil- 
dren: Samuel and Joseph, both deceased; 
Mary Ann, Hannah, Elizabeth, Caroline, 
Alexander, Matilda, William , Amanda, Sarah 
Ann, and John. Mr. Cram's father, David, 
died in October, 1889, and his mother, 
Catharine, in 1865. They were residents of 
Lower Paxton township. Sarah Jane re- 
ceived her education in Lower Paxton town- 
ship. After the death of her father she re- 
sided among strangers until her marriage 
on December 22, 1865, to John Crum. They 
had six children : Marv Ella, born October 
9, 1866, and died October 27, 1867 ; Rebecca, 
who died in infancy; John H., born June 25, 
1868 ; William Edward, born November 20, 
1869; JennieS., born June 25, 1872; DavidF., 
born February 12, 1877. Her husband, John 
Crum, died June 3, 1886, at the age of forty- 
five years. In politics Mr. Crum was a Re- 
publican and served two terms as school 
director. He was a member of the Church 
of God, of which his family also are mem- 
bers. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



799 



LOWER SWATARA TOWNSHIP. 



Etter, Abram Landis, editor and pro- 
prietor of the Middletown Journal (weekly), 
established in 1854, and Daily Journal, es- 
tablished 1890, was born in Middletown, 
Dauphin county, Pa., August 15, 1862. He 
is a son of ihe late George W. Etter, who 
was born in Middletown in 1815, was en- 
gaged in the lumber business for forty years, 
and conducted one of the largest saw mill 
plants along the Susquehanna south of 
Williamsport. His ancestors have resided 
in Middletown for more than a century. 

Abram L. was the youngest son of his 
father. His education was such as could be 
obtained b} r a bright and ambitious boy in 
the schools of his native town. But his 
course of study did not end with the close 
of his school days. He chose as his occupa- 
tion for life the printer's trade, and went 
into the office of his predecessor, the late J. 
W. Stofer, to learn the art. The printing 
office is the very best school for mental 
training and development in special direc- 
tions ; certainly orthography and grammar 
are not mastered so thoroughly in any 
school as they are in the printing office. 
And when the office is that of a newspaper, 
there is a training in literary taste and an 
attainment in the use of language excelling 
the results of tuition in school and college. 
In such favorable conditions did young 
Etter continue his education, beginning his 
apprenticeship in 1878. in 1881, when in 
his nineteenth year, he secured employment 
in the Government printing office in Wash- 
ington, D. C, and continued there for three 
years. In 1888 he was employed in Chi- 
cago, 111., in the office of the Daily Market 
Report, a trade publication. 

His native newspaper tastes and talents 
began to assert themselves, and he looked 
about him for an opportunity to gratify 
them. His old friend, the proprietor of the 
Middletown Journal, was compelled by fail- 
ing health to contemplate the abandonment 
of active business. The would-be seller and 
purchaser were naturally brought together, 
and the contract between them materialized 
and was consummated in September, 1885. 
In his native place, in the office where he 
had learned the art of printing and the 
greater art of newspaper making, surrounded 
by a host of old and tried friends and well- 
wishers and prospective patrons, Mr. Ktler 
was in the conditions calculated to stimulate 



his powers to their most active and fullest 
exertion. The results are demonstrated, 
and are to the utmost satisfactory. They 
are told in few words, which embody the 
statement of large facts ; the removal of the 
plant to more commodious and convenient 
cpuarters, the increase in the size of the 
paper from four pages of eight columns each 
to eight pages of six columns each to ac- 
commodate the rapidly growing advertising 
patronage, the addition of the Daily Journal, 
and last, but not least, the enlarged list of 
subscribers; these are the facts which justify 
the offering of hearty congratulations to 
both proprietor and patrons on the posses- 
sion of a successful newspaper. Like many, 
perhaps most newspaper men, Mr. Etter 
owns to some political aspirations, and be- 
yond doubt they will be gratified. The 
people are always awake to an opportunity 
to secure for public service the ability and 
fidelity of successful men. Mr. Etter was 
married, June 11, 1889, to Anna Ober, 
daughter of Rev. Joseph Nissley, of Derry 
township. 



Nissley, Isaac O., editor and proprietor 
of the Middletown Press, was born on his 
father's farm, one mile south of Hummels- 
town, February 8, 1854. He is the eldest 
son of the Rev. Joseph and Anna (Ober) 
Nissley. His boyhood and youth were 
spent on the farm, with the usual activities 
in the way of work and play winch fall to 
the lot of the farmer boy. During the winter 
months he was a regular attendant at the 
Stoverdale school, until promoted to the oc- 
cupation of teaching in some of the public 
schools in the adjoining townships. He 
remained upon the farm for the full 
period of his minority, but when he 
came of age he resolved to extend the 
course of his studies. With a stock of 
good health and a flow of spirits, he en- 
tered the State Normal School at Indiana, 
Pa. Here he found several hundred young 
people filled witli the same desire for im- 
provement and impelled by the same am- 
bition for usefulness as himself. He was 
graduated from this institution in the class 
of 1879. While pursuing his course of 
study he found time, during the year 1S78, 
to teach the classes in vocal music and pen- 
manship. Before and after graduation he 
taught in the public schools of Swatara, .South 
Hanover and Derry townships, May town, 



800 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



East Donegal, Lancaster county, Hummels- 
town and Annville, nine terms in all. 

In March, 1882, he removed to Middle- 
town, having bought the Press of J. R. 
Hoffer, then also editor of the Mount Joy 
Herald, now deceased. In the field of 
journalism and in the management of his 
paper Mr. Nissley found scope for his talents. 
In the community the spirit of improve- 
mant was prevalent, and growth and enlarge- 
ment were rapidly attained. Mr. Nissley 
was abreast of all advancement and a leader 
in all that tended to make the place larger 
and more prosperous. The growth of his 
paper is an indication of his ability in the 
line of a " boomer." Under his management 
the Press has increased its circulation more 
than five fold, or to state the figures, from a 
circulation of about three hundred and fifty 
the list has risen to near the two thousand 
mark. 

Mr. Nissley united with St. Peter's Lu- 
theran church in 1887. The next year he 
was elected to the church council, and has 
been a member of that body ever since, part 
of the time as trustee, and part as elder. He 
has been leader of the choir during almost 
all the time he has been connected with the 
"church. After the deatb of George A. 
Lauman, Mr. Nissley was elected super- 
intendent of the Sabbath-school, and is the 
third man to fill that office since the school 
was organized, seventy-five years ago. The 
school has eight hundred pupils on its roll. 
Mr. Nissley was married, June 2, 1881, to 
Miss Emma M. Brunner, daughter of W. E. 
Brunner, of Campbellstown, Lebanon county, 
Pa. They began housekeeping at Marietta, 
but moved to Middletown in 1882, where 
they have since resided. 



Mish, George F., M. D., Middletown, was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa., July 5, 1827. He 
is a son of George and Catherine (Doll) Mish. 
The first of the Mish family to settle in Dau- 
phin county was Jacob Mish, a son of 
Johannes Mish, of Cumberland county, Pa., 
who settled in Harrisburg in 1780. He was 
a tanner, and established one of the first 
tanneries of Harrisburg. His wife was Cathe- 
rine Bickle. Their children were : John 
Bickle, George, Jacob, Henry, and Elizabeth, 
deceased, who was the wife of George W. 
Boyd, of Harrisburg. John B. Mish read 
medicine with Dr. Samuel Agnew, of Harris- 
burg, and graduated from the University of 
Pennsylvania. He located in Lebanon, Pa., 



where he resided until his death in 1847. 
He served as burgess of the town and as pro- 
thonotary of Lebanon county, and was a 
highly respected citizen. Jacob Mish learned 
the tanner's trade, and became associated 
with his father in that business. He died in 
Harrisburg. Henry Mish died at the age of 
twenty-two years. 

George Mish, father of George F., was born 
in Harrisburg about 1795. He received the 
ordinary education of that period, and 
learned the tanner's trade, but not finding it 
a congenial vocation he did not follow it. 
He was connected with the Government land 
office for some years, and afterwards became 
a contractor on the Pennsylvania canal, 
Pennsylvania railroad and other public 
works. In early life he was a Democrat, but 
later became identified with the Whig party. 
He served as prothonotary of the county. 
During the war of 1812 he enlisted in the 
volunteer service, but after reaching Balti- 
more the services of the company were not 
required. He was cashier of the First Dau- 
phin Deposit Bank. He was a member of 
the German Reformed church and of the 
Masonic fraternity. He died in 1850. 

His wife was Catherine Doll, daughter of 
Joseph and Esther Doll, of Dauphin county, 
who survived him many years, and died in 
1879. Their family consisted of four daugh- 
ters, who died in infancy, and four sons, as 
follows: (1) Henry Augustus, was educated 
in Harrisburg and graduated from Marshall 
College, Mercersburg, Franklin county. He 
studied law with George W. Harris, of Har- 
risburg, and practiced his profession at 
Chambersburg and Mercersburg. He estab- 
lished the Mercersburg Weekly Journal and 
the Franklin Intelligencer, of Chambersburg, 
and also published the Mercersburg Review, 
edited by Rev. J. W. Nevin, D. D., and the 
Kirchenfreund, edited by Rev. Philip Schaff, 
D. D. He afterwards removed to Harrisburg 
and practiced his profession for a short time, 
when he established the Keystone Nurseries. 
During the war of the Rebellion he served 
as volunteer for a short time, and was ap- 
pointed to office in Washington, D. C. He 
was never married. He died September 16, 
1870. (2) Simon Cameron Mish was born 
January 7, 1833. He was appointed in the 
United States navy as a midshipman, and 
went with Commodore Perry to Japan. He 
claimed that he and Perry introduced the 
art of English printing into Japan. He re- 
signed from the navy at the outbreak of the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



801 



Rebellion and enlisted in the Fourth Penn- 
sylvania cavalry ; he was sergeant-major of 
his regiment. Jle was taken prisoner and 
confined at Andersonville, where it is sup- 
posed he died. (3) Jacob Mish was born at 
Harrisburg, April 4, 1835. He engaged in 
farming in Swatara township and afterwards 
became connected with the Keystone Nur- 
series. He served in the war of the Rebellion 
and was quartermaster of his regiment. (4) 
George F. 

Dr. George F. Mish was reared in Harris- 
burg. He received his education at the 
Harrisburg Academy and at Captain Part- 
ridge's Military Institution, of Bristol, Pa., 
afterwards of Norwich, Vt. He learned the 
printer's trade, and afterwards read medicine 
under Dr. Joshua M. Wiestling, of Harris- 
burg, and graduated from the University of 
Pennsylvania in 1853 ; he began his practice 
in the same year at Middletown, Pa. In 
1858 he moved to Harrisburg, where he prac- 
ticed for two years, and returned to Middle- 
town in 1860, where he has since resided. 
He is one of the oldest physicians of Dauphin 
county. He has served as vice-president of 
the Dauphin County Medical Society, and is 
a member of the State Medical Society and 
of the American Medical Association. From 
1802 to 1865 he served as assistant surgeon 
of the Fifteenth regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers. He was taken prisoner at Stone 
River and confined in Libby prison, but was 
soon exchanged. He is one of the organizers 
of the Middletown Gas Company and is its 
vice-president. He is one of the organizers 
and the president of the Middletown Drain- 
age Company. He belongs to Simon Came- 
ron Post, G. A. R., of Middletown. The 
Doctor enjoys an extensive practice. He and 
his family are members of the Presbyterian 
church of Middletown. In 1859 he married 
Mary E. Smuller, daughter of George and 
Caroline (Fisher) Smuller, of Middletown. 
They have four children : Caroline S., wife 
Dr. Charles H. Saul, of Steelton, Pa.; George, 
civil engineer, of Middletown ; Mary C, at 
home; and Frederick, who died in 1895, 
aged twenty -three years. 

Young, Col. James, was a grandson of 
Peter Young, gentleman, who resided near 
Sinking Springs, Berks county, Pa., during 
the Revolutionary war, who performed active 
service during that trying struggle, and 
whose patriotism was evidenced by the pub- 
lic recognition of the Continental authori- 



ties. On December 14, 1776, he was com- 
missioned by the Council of Safety of Phila- 
delphia second lieutenant of the Third bat- 
talion of Berks county militia. The com- 
mission is signed by David Rittenhouse, 
vice-president. On May 17, 1777, he was 
commissioned by the Supreme Executive 
Council of Pennsylvania second lieutenant 
of a company of foot in the Fourth battalion 
of militia, Berks county, and on May 10, 
1780, he was commissioned by the same au- 
thority lieutenant of a company in the Sixth 
battalion of militia of the same county. 
Those were the days in which militiamen 
fought the battles of their country. 

James Young's maternal grandfather was 
David Ettla, a native of Germany, who emi- 
grated to this country about 1756 and settled 
at Middletown, Pa., where he pursued the 
occupation of a tailor the greater part of his 
life. He was an important man in the his- 
tory of the early settlement of that now 
prosperous borough, and was one of the 
three commissioners appointed by the King 
of England to raise the necessar}' funds for 
the building of the old St. Peter's church, of 
Middletown. While in performance of the 
duties incumbent upon him in that position 
he on one occasion walked from Middletown 
to Philadelphia, through what was' then a 
desolate and almost impassable section of the 
State. He married Magdalena Oldweiler, 
also a native of Germany, and their children 
were: David, who married Elizabeth Croll, 
of Middletown ; Philip, who married Sarah 
Radenbaugh ; Conrad, a shoemaker, who 
married Annie Smuller, of Middletown, and 
who died in 1836 ; Jacob, who married Miss 
Hertz, of Harrisburg, and Sophia, who mar- 
ried Peter Young. 

James Young, son of Peter and Sophia 
Young, was born at Swatara Hill, Pa., July 
25, 1820. His father was born November 
13, 1781, emigrated from Berks county, and 
passed the greater part of his life in the busi- 
ness of hotel keeping. From 1S20 to 1834 
he was the proprietor of the stage house on 
Swatara Hill, and on February 1, L835, took 
charge of the Washington House, Middle- 
town, and kept it until his demise on Sep- 
tember 29, 1844. He enjoyed a common 
school education, and passed his earliest 
years of usefulness in assisting his father in 
the hotel business. At this early period he 
evinced a remarkable degree of activity and 
ambition, ami willingly performed the most 
menial labor if it conduced to his pecuniary 



802 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYGL OPEDIA 



advantage. By close economy and a care- 
ful and absteminous course of living he had 
accumulated in 1839 a sum of money suffi- 
cient for him to purchase a canal boat, which 
he run for one year between Hollidaysburg 
and Philadelphia. In 1840 he established 
a lumber yard at Middletown, to which he 
subsequently added the coal business, and 
for twenty-six years engaged in successful 
trade in these lines, at the same time fur- 
nishing supplies to the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company under contract. He was also 
the purchasing agent for the Northern Cen- 
tral and Pennsylvania Railroad Company for 
a number of years, and during the late war 
engaged in laying a portion of the second 
track for that company under contract. 
About 1859 he purchased a valuable lime- 
stone quarry at Leaman Place, Lancaster 
county, which the manager of his estate 
operates, and from which has been furnished 
large amounts of stone for building the 
bridges and abutments for the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company. James Young was em- 
phatically a self-made man. Though spring- 
ing from good stock, he started out in life a 
poor boy, and won a proud place among the 
representative men of his State by faithful, 
earnest work and the exercise of indomi- 
table pluck and resolution. He owned a 
large amount of real estate in Middletown 
and elsewhere, including the Washington 
Hotel, in which he began his business life, 
the opera house, and divers stores and dwell- 
ing houses. He took an active interest in 
local affairs, and was identified with various 
local institutions and enterprises. He was 
president of the American Tube and Iron 
Company, of Middletown, president of the 
Cameron Furnace, of the same place, and a 
director of the Commonwealth Guarantee, 
Trust and Safe Deposit Company of Harris- 
burg, of the Farmers' Bank of Middletown, 
of the First National Bank of Lebanon, Pa., 
of the Lochiel Rolling Mill Company, and 
was a director of|the Harrisburg, Portsmouth, 
Mount Joy and Lancaster Railroad Company 
for over twenty years. He was also a mem- 
ber of the State Board of Agriculture of 
Pennsylvania, by appointment of the Gov- 
ernor, and vice-president of the State Agri- 
cultural Society. Though politically a Re- 
publican he always declined public position, 
feeling at the same time a warm interest in 
State and National politics. He was a regu- 
lar attendant and supporter of St. Peter's 
Lutheran church, of Middletown. He mar- 



ried, June 8, 1843, Ann, daughter of Isaac 
and Catherine Redsecker, and their children 
were : R. I., residing in Baltimore, Md.; De- 
lanson J., deceased ; Catherine S., who mar- 
ried H. P. Dunbar, of Harrisburg ; Sarah 
H., deceased ; James S., who was engaged in 
business with his father; Simon Cameron, 
who was formerly a civil engineer in the ser- 
vice of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company 
and is now administrator of his father's 
estate, and Henry P., who resides at Colum- 
bia, Pa. 



Young, Simon Cameron, was born in 
Middletown, Pa., February 20, 1859. He is 
a son of Col. James Young, a sketch of 
whom appears elsewhere in this volume. 
He was educated in the Friends' Central 
School of Philadelphia and the Polytechnic 
College of Pennsylvania, and was graduated 
as a civil engineer. He at once became 
connected in that capacity with the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, and had charge 
of the construction on the West Pennsylvania 
division. He was assistant supervisor at 
Blairsville, New Florence and Gallitzin, and 
supervisor at Jonesbury, N. J., and Reading, 
Pa. He retired from the road May 15, 1895, 
and with his mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Young, 
was made administrator of his father's estate. 
As representing the estate, he succeeded his 
father in the management of the numerous 
and varied enterprises in which he was 
interested at the time of his death. He is 
president of the Cameron Furnace Company ; 
was made a director and vice-president of 
the American Tube and Iron Company in 
February, 1896 ; is a director in the Farmers' 
Bank of Middletown, and the Steelton Na- 
tional Bank ; and also a director of the Steel- 
ton, Highspire and Middletown Electric Rail- 
way Company. He is a member of Prince 
Edward Lodge, No. 486, F. & A. M. ; of Mount 
Pine Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., of Reading, and of the 
Middletown Lodge, Royal Arcanum. He is 
Republican in politics. In 1881 he married 
Miss Mary Cleaver, who died in 1886, leav- 
ing two children : Eliza A. and James. He 
was married again, in 1889, to Miss Emma 
Sutton, of Perth Amboy, N. J. Mr. Young 
and his wife are members of St. Peter's 
Lutheran church. 



Young, Harry P., was born June 17, 
1862. He is a son of Col. James Young, of 
whom a sketch is given elsewhere. He was 
educated at the Friends' Central School, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



-■o:; 



Philadelphia, and is a machinist by trade. 
He married Miss Lillian Maher, of Colum- 
bia, Pa. 



Pease, Charles E., M. D., Middletown, 
was born in Brook Haven, L. I., May 9, 1857. 
He is a son of E. H. and Sarepta (Hulse) 
Pease. He obtained his literary education at 
Claverack College. He read medicine with 
Dr. Thomas Shaw, of Pittsburgh, and gradu- 
ated from the University of Pennsylvania in 
18S2. He began practice at Irvington, N. J. 
In November, 18S2, he came to Middletown, 
where he has since enjoyed an extensive prac- 
tice. He is surgeon for the American Tube 
and Iron Company and Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company. He is a member of the Dau- 
phin County Medical Society. He belongs to 
Triuue Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., to the Patriarch 
Encampment and the Royal Arcanum. He 
is a stockholder and director in the Middle- 
town Drainage Company. In politics Dr. 
Pease is an active Republican. He and his 
wife are members of the Presbyterian church, 
in which he holds the office of trustee. He 
was married, in|December, 1SS2, to Miss Mary 
A. Hedden, daughter of Morris Hedden, of 
Orange, N. J. They have two children : Nor- 
man D. and Ada Scott. 



Bowers, Charles E., M. D., Middletown, 
was born in Middletown, January 13, 1868. 
He is a son of Christian and Mary (Yose) 
Bowers, natives of Germany, who came to 
America in 1852, located in Philadelphia, 
and in 1853 came to Middletown, where the 
father engaged in business as a sawyer. 
He managed a mill for Etter, Carmany & 
Siple for about thirty years. He was also 
for some years with Kendig & Lauman. 
Since then he has retired from active busi- 
ness. His family consists of four children : 
Frederick, Charles E., Catherine, and Rose. 
He served as secretary of the school board 
for nine years. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church, and he be- 
longs to the Masonic fraternity. Charles 
E. was educated in the public schools of Mid- 
dletown. He engaged in the drug business 
with Dr. J. W. Rewalt, alter which he took 
a course in the Philadelphia College of 
Pharmacy, from which he was graduated in 
1S89. He studied medicine under Dr. Will- 
iam A. Burns, of Philadelphia, and gradu- 
ated from the Medico-Chirurgical College in 
1893. He began practice in Columbia, Pa., 
and in 1895 located in Middletown, where 



he has since resided. Dr. Bowers has 
also established and conducts a drug store. 
In politics the Doctor is a Democrat. He 
and his wife are members of the Lutheran 
church. He was married in 1S93 to Miss 
Catherine Cox, daughter of Thomas L. Cox, 
of Ephrata, Pa., by whom he has three chil- 
dren : Karl, and Dorothy and Florine, who 
are twins. 



Kendig, Walter Henry, was born in 
Middletown, Pa., June 3, 1830. He is a son 
of Martin and Rebecca (McFarland) Kendig. 

Martin Kendig, paternal great-grandfather 
of Walter Henry, was a descendant of one of 
the earliest Swiss settlers in Lancaster county, 
Pa. At the close of the Revolutionary war 
he located on Senaca Lake, near Waterloo, 
N. Y., where he died. He married Mary 
Brenneman, and they had eight children : 
John, Martin, Joseph, Daniel, Elizabeth, 
Christian, Mary, and Nancy. 

John Kendig, oldest child of Martin, and 
paternal grandfather of Walter Henry, was 
born October 4, 1770, and died October 12, 
1831, at Middletown, Pa. He married Eliza- 
beth Hill, born September 17, 1770, died 
March 20, 1845, at Middletown. Their chil- 
dren are: Martin, Sarah, and Daniel. 

Martin Kendig, oldest son of John, and 
father of Walter H., was born December 31, 
1797, in Sunbury, Northumberland county. 
Pa., died August 28, 1850, near Middletown. 
Pa. After completing his education he 
learned the trade of harness making at Har- 
risburg, and established himself in the busi- 
ness at Middletown, being at the same time 
interested with his brother Daniel in the lum- 
ber trade; with whom and with Judge Mm tv 
he joined and erected a sawmill at the mouth 
of the Swatara, where they carried on a large 
business. Mr. Kendig was an enterprising 
and successful business man, and a gentle- 
man of probity, highly honored and of com- 
manding influence in public affairs, lie 
served as one of the auditors of the county 
from 1826 to 1828,and represented Dauphin 
county in the Legislature From 1837 to 1839. 
He was thrice married, being first united, 
June 15, 1820, to Rebecca McFarland, of 
Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., born June 28, 1S00, died April 1, 1831. 
The children born to this marriage are : Rev. 
Daniel and Walter Henry. Mr. Kendig mar- 
ried, secondly, Sarah Sebaugh, daughter of 
Conrad Sebaugh, of Middletown, by whom 
lie had five children: John Allen. James, 



804 



B10GRA PHICAL ENGTGL OPEDIA 



Rebecca, William, and Elizabeth. Mr. Ken- 
dig married, thirdly, September 1, 1842, Mrs. 
Rachel (Shelly) Croll, widow of Abner Croll, 
no surviving issue. 

Walter Henry's grandfather on his moth- 
er's side was John McFarland, a native of 
Scotland. He died January 17, 1787, aged 
fifty-four years. He married Mary Ireland, 
who died August 20, 1790, aged forty-eight 
years. They are both buried at Derry 
Church. Their son, Walter McFarland, 
died in 1820. He married Sarah Mitchell, 
daughter of Thomas Mitchell, and settled on 
the Swatara. Their children were : John, 
Rebecca, wife of Martin Kendig and mother 
of Walter Henry, and Mary, wife of Mr. 
Wilson. The McFarland and the Ireland 
families first settled in Cecil county, Md. 

Walter H. was educated in the public 
schools of his native town. He was early 
trained in the mercantile business, and 
afterwards became a contractor on public 
works. He was interested in several exten- 
sive contracts on the New York and Erie 
railroad in connection with Philip Irwin and 
Stephen Atherton. He returned to Middle- 
town and engaged in the lumber business 
with Daniel Kendig & Co. He is still in 
that business, under the firm name of Ken- 
dig & Lauman. He served as postmaster of 
Middletown by the appointment of President 
Lincoln, and was removed from that office 
by President Johnson. He was married, 
December 25, 1856, to Jane E., daughter of 
William McMurtrie, of Huntingdon, Pa. 
They had one son, Martin, born January 5, 
1858 ; educated in public schools ; learned 
the printing trade in Washington, D. C; 
spent a portion of his life in his father's 
office, subsequently employed with the 
American Tube and Iron Company, of 
Middletown ; he died May 3, 1894. Mr. 
and Mrs. Kendig have an adopted daughter 
named Edith, widow of the late Frank 
Croll, who now resides in Middletown. 

Rev. Daniel Kendig, brother of Walter H., 
was born in September, 1824. He is a 
chaplain in the United States army and was 
stationed at the posts of Fort Stallacoom, in 
Washington, and the Presidio, San Fran- 
cisco, from December 19, 1859, to May 27, 
1867; post chaplain April 31, 1867 ; on the 
retired list of the United States army, 1891. 



Borland, John A., Middletown, was born 
in Andersontown, York county, Pa., in Janu- 
ary, 1847. He is a son of William and Jane 



(Anderson) Borland, natives of York county. 
They were prominent members of the Bethel 
church. He was educated in the public 
schools. Leaving home at the age of four- 
teen he engaged as clerk at Eberly's Mills, 
Cumberland county, Pa. In 1861 he went 
to Washington, D. C, to learn the drug busi- 
ness with his uncle, who was a prominent 
physician of that city. The business did 
not prove congenial, and he remained there 
only six months. In 1864 he went to Har- 
risburg, and for several years was clerk in 
some of the largest dry goods houses. For 
seventeen months Mr. Borland served as 
secretaiy of the Y. M. C. A., of Harrisburg. 
Through the urgent solicitation of Rev. Mr. 
Pattison, father of Governor Pattison, he was 
induced to fill the appointment of junior 
local preacher at Gilbertson,Mahanoy Plain 
and Frackville. As a result of his labors at 
the two latter places two church organiza- 
tions were effected, which have since grown 
to be prosperous congregations of the Metho- 
dist Episcopal denomination. In 1880 he 
engaged in the mercantile business for him- 
self in Middletown, and has since continued 
there. On March 20, 1895, he established a 
branch store at Carlisle, Pa. He was a di- 
rector in the Middletown National Bank. 
On January 10, 1896, the store occupied by 
Mr. Borland at Carlisle was destroyed by 
fire. On April 30, 1896, Mr. Borland pur- 
chased the grocery store and good will of 
the business adjoining his former premises 
in Middletown, formerly conducted by W. 
W. Reitzel, and in connection with his large 
dry goods business he is now also conduct- 
ing one of the most extensive and well 
equipped grocery stores in Middletown, un- 
der the name of Borland's Apartment Store. 
Mr. Borland is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, the Knights of Malta and the 
Junior Order of American Mechanics. Po- 
litically he is a Republican. He is a promi- 
nent member of the Methodist Episcopal 
church, and fills the office of steward. He 
takes an active interest in all church work 
and all matters pertaining to the Y. M. C. A. 
He was married in 1877 to Miss Kate M. 
Young, daughter of Amos W. Young, by 
whom he has had three children : Bertha, 
died December 8, 1894 ; Herbert A., and 
Edgar S. 

Lingle, John O, M. D., of Middletown, 
Pa., was born in Harrisburg, September 17, 
1859. He is a son of Joseph and Sarah 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



805 



(Steel) Lingle, and a brother to Lockwood J. 
Lingle, of Pliilipsburg, Centre county, Pa., 
now engaged as a foreman at the firebrick 
works of Wigton & Co., of that place. The 
Doctor's early life was spent in Harrisburg, 
where he received a common school educa- 
tion, graduating from the high school of 
that place in 1876, being a member of the 
second class that held their commencement 
exercises in the then new opera house. After 
leaving school he entered the drug business, 
serving as clerk with Drs. Markley and 
Nunemacher for a period of one year and 
six months. Being inclined from early boy- 
hood to become a physician, and showing 
many traits characteristic of his love for the 
profession, his parents, though in ordinary 
circumstances, concluded to grant him his 
desire, and in the spring of 1878 he began 
the study of medicine with Dr. M. Friese, 
of Harrisburg. After studying one year he 
entered the New York Homoeopathic Medi- 
cal College with the intention of completing 
a three year course there, but after taking 
one year his preceptor became seriously ill 
and was taken to the Homoeopathic Hospital 
of Philadelphia for treatment, and requested 
him to finish the remaining two years of 
the course in the Hahnemann Medical Col- 
lege, of Philadelphia, which he did, graduat- 
ing in 1881 with high honors. He took the 
prize of his class for superior scholarship, the 
class numbering about one hundred. In a 
competitive examination for hospital ap- 
pointments he was the first one chosen for 
AVard's Island, but declined, and going home 
began the practice of his profession in Har- 
risburg in the spring of 1881. In the fall 
of 1882 he removed to Middletown, where 
he has since been engaged in practice. He 
is a member of Triune Lodge, No. 307, 1. O. 
0. F., Middletown, Pa., a past officer of the 
lodge, and was the acting past grand at the 
time of the dedication of their new hall, 
now situated on Emaus street. He was also 
one of the building committee entrusted 
with the responsibility in the erection of 
their new hall which to-day is considered 
not only a credit to the lodge, but also to 
the town. In the cornerstone of the build- 
ing, among other things, will be found a 
piece of copper plate upon which is inscribed 
the names of the acting officers, and among 
which will be found the name of Dr. J. C. 
Lingle, P. G. H. He is also a member of Iv. 
G. E., K. of P., and the Masonic fraternity. 
He was married, December 20, 1883, to 



Miss Alice May, daughter of Alexander and 
Elcinda McCrone, natives of Maryland, but 
for the last twenty years residents of Harris- 
burg. They have four children : Charlie 
Percival, Yula May, Frances Estell,and John 
C, Jr. Dr. Lingle has taken an active part 
in politics, being a staunch, stalwart Repub- 
lican, and unswerving in his conviction as 
to the necessity of a protective tariff. He 
and his family attend the Methodist Episco- 
pal church. 

Reider, Abraham H., cashier of the Far- 
mers' Bank, of Middletown, was born in Mt. 
Joy township, Lancaster county, Pa., June 
14, 1848. He is a son of George and Eliza- 
beth (Shearer) Reider. He belongs to a 
family of German descent, one of the oldest 
in the State, and one with a most honorable 
history. His great-greatgrandfather be- 
longed to the provisional army under Wash- 
ington and Braddock, in the war of 1754- 
1756, and was killed in that war. The 
Reider family has numerous representatives 
among the residents of Dauphin, Lancaster 
and Franklin counties, occupying promi- 
nent places in business and professional life. 
Prof. John A. Ryder, who filled a chair in 
the University of Pennsylvania, and who 
died in 1895, was of this family. Mr. 
Reider's father is a local minister in the 
United Brethren church, and also a retired 
fanner. While he appreciates the honor of 
a noble ancestry, Mr. Reider has always rec- 
ognized the obligation imposed upon him 
to be worthy of that ancestry, and realized 
that he could do this only by earnest and 
faithful efforts to be useful and honorable in 
his own day and generation. He was 
reared in Lancaster county, and received 
his education in the public schools, the 
Lebanon Valley College and the State Nor- 
mal School at Millersville. This course 
prepared him for the profession of teaching. 
He holds a certificate from the State and 
county superintendents of schools, which 
permanently and perpetually entitles him 
to teach in any county of the State without 
being examined. He taught school in Lan- 
caster and Dauphin counties for a number 
of vears. At the organization of the Farm- 
ers' Bank of Middletown in 1SS2 Mr. 
Reider was elected teller of the bank, and 
filled this position for twelve years. In 1894 
he was elected cashier, which office he now 
fills. He is also engaged in farming in Lon- 
donderry township. On September 1, 1895, 



806 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



he was elected treasurer of the Cameron 
Furnace Company. He served as treasurer 
of the Middletown borough from 1894 to 
1895, and declined re-election. He is Re- 
publican in politics. He is a member of 
the United Brethren church and superin- 
tendent of the Sunday-school. He takes an 
active interest in all church work. He is 
much interested in historical and genealogi- 
cal matters, and is an active member of the 
Pennsylvania German Society. 



No. 307, I. 0. 0. F. He is a Democrat in 
politics. He was married, in 1882, to Miss 
Clara Willman, daughter of Albert Willman, 
of Londonderry township. His wife is a 
member of the Lutheran church. 



Brandt, B. F., Middletown, was born in 
Lancaster county, Pa., April 5, 1839. He is 
a son of Jacob and Catherine (McClenigan) 
Brandt, natives of that county. They moved 
to Dauphin county in 1854, and located 
on a farm in Londonderry township. The 
father died in Middletown in 1868, and the 
mother died in Middletown in 1872. They 
were members of the United Zion's Children 
church. They reared a family of nine chil- 
dren, seven of whom are now living. Their 
children are : Abraham, of Middletown, who 
died February 14, 1896 ; Samuel, of Middle- 
town ; John, married Lucetta Rife, daughter 
of Abraham Rife, and died in 1860 ; Jacob, 
married Anna Houser, daughter of Peter 
Houser, of Middletown, and died in 1875, 
leaving one child, Kate, who married John 
Young, of Delta, Md.; B. F.; Mary Jane, wife 
of Jacob S. Keyser, of Middletown ; Henry, 
of Royalton ; David C, of Middletown, born 
January 10, 1847, married Maggie Piatt, and 
have five children : Jacob, Anna, Clarence, 
Laura, and Catherine ; Elizabeth, widow of 
Henry Schaffer, of Lancaster county, Pa. 

B. F. was educated in the public schools. 
In 1857 he began business on the Pennsyl- 
vania canal, and followed the occupation 
until 1870. During the latter years of this 
period he owned and commanded his boat. 
•In 1870 he and his brother Jacob engaged in 
the wholesale liquor business. After the 
death of Jacob his brother Abraham became 
a member of the firm, and continued in it up 
to 1890. He then retired, and his son, John 
A Brandt, took his interest. Mi*. Brandt is 
one of the charter members and a director of 
the Farmers' Bank of Middletown. He is a 
charter member and president of the Mid- 
dletown Market Company. In 1862 he en- 
listed in company H, One Hundred and 
Twenty-seventh regiment, Pennsj'lvania vol- 
unteers, and served until 1863, participating 
in the battles of Fredericksburg, Chancellors- 
ville, etc. He is a member of Triune Lodge, 



Klugh, O. R., M. D., Harrisburg, Pa., 
offices Nos. 103 and L05 North Second street, 
residence No. 1628 North Third street, was 
born in May town, Lancaster county, Novem- 
ber 28, 1866. He is a son of Jacob Frederick 
and Mary C. (Hambright) Klugh, natives of 
Lancaster county, Pa. His father was born 
in 1838. In 1857 he taught school. He 
came to Dauphin county in 1864 and became 
principal of the high school at Highspire, 
which position he held for two years. He 
then became manager of the Wilson Lumber 
and Manufacturing Company, and after- 
wards of the Wilson Distillery Company 
until 1870, when he resigned and engaged 
in the lumber business. He has served as 
justice of the peace at Highspire for about 
twenty-five years. Politically he is identi- 
fied as a Democratic leader. Under Presi- 
dent Cleveland's first administration he was 
appointed U. S. pension examiner. He was 
one of the promoters of the Harrisburg, 
Highspire and Middletown Electric Railway 
Company. At the present time he is devel- 
oping the addition of Highspire known as 
Klughton. His family consists of five chil- 
dren : Dr. 0. R., Aaron D., Ida N., Mary C, 
and Jacob Hancock. 

Dr. O. R. was reared in Highspire and 
educated in the high school of that town. 
He read medicine with Dr. E. J. Putt, and 
graduated from the Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege, of Philadelphia, April 4, 1889. In 1894 
he was made one of the board of censors of 
the Medico-Chirurgical College of Philadel- 
phia, examining physician of the Protectors' 
Indemnity Corporation of Pennsylvania, 
and Metropolitan Life Insurance Company 
of New York. He began practice in High- 
spire, where he continued until August 30, 
1893, when he removed to Middletown. 
Here he had enjoyed an extensive practice 
until he removed to Harrisburg, January 1, 
1896. He is a specialist of chronic and pri- 
vate diseases of both sexes. Dr. Klugh is 
well known throughout the State and is one 
of the most practical specialists Pennsylvania 
has ever had. He is the author and pro- 
prietor of Dr. Klugh's female prescription, a 
powerful germicide and antiseptic, used in 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



807 



the ills of females and popularly known 
throughout the world. 

He is an active and consistent member of 
the Democratic part}'. He is one of the 
original stockholders of the Champion Man- 
ufacturing Company, of Middletown. He 
was married, November 6, 1890, to Miss 
Ada B. Brenneman, daughter of Dr. A. N. 
Brenneman, of Middletown. They have one 
child, J. Russel Klugh, born March 2, 1892. 
Mrs. Klugh is a member of St. Peter's Lu- 
theran church. 



Kurtz, Benjamin W., merchant and bur- 
gess of Middletown, was born in Middle- 
town, Pa., April 28, 1854. He is a son of 
John and Margaret (Fackler) Kurtz. His 
father was a native of Chester county, Pa., 
and came to Middletown in 1840 with his 
father, John Kurtz, who located in London- 
derry township. The father was a hotel 
keeper and a tenant farmer for Hon. Simon 
Cameron for a number of years. He after- 
wards became the owner and captain of a 
canal boat, which he managed for several 
years. Mr. Kurtz was Republican in politics. 
He was a member of the Methodist Episco- 
pal church. He died in 1888, his wife in 
1880. They had seven children, of whom 
six are now living, namely: Elizabeth P., 
wife of John- Kohr, of Middletown ; Mary J., 
wife of Thomas J. Bretz, of Harrisburg ; 
Benjamin W.; John F., of Middletown, a 
recessor at the Tube Works, born in June, 
1856, married Emma Wolton, and has two 
children, George W. and John ; Stephen R., 
of Middletown, a tinsmith, born in 1858, 
married Adeline Killian, and has these 
children: Eva, Maggie, Myra, Susan, and 
Albert; Edwin, born in 1801, married 
Cordie Walton, and has two children, Em- 
ma and Elizabeth. 

Benjamin W. was reared in Middletown, 
and enjoyed the advantages to be derived by a 
wide-awake boy from a course in the schools 
of the borough. He learned the trade of 
butt-welder, but this employment was not 
active and stirring enough for a young man 
of his energy and ambition. For six years 
he followed the canal. From 1875 to 1881 
he was connected with the Central railroad 
of New Jersey as baggagemasterand assistant 
ticket agent in Union and Monmouth 
counties. In 1881 he returned to Middle- 
town, and worked for the American Tube 
and Iron Company for thirteen years. By 



industry, economy and frugality he had ac- 
cumulated enough to enable him to engage 
in business for himself. He chose merchan- 
dizing, and in 1892 established his present 
business. He was elected burgess of Middle- 
town in 1894. He is a Republican, and ac- 
tive as a party worker. He is a member of 
the Knights of the Golden Eagle. On Oc- 
tober 28, 1879, he was married to Miss Fanny 
Wilson Stipe, daughter of Perry Stipe, of 
Middletown. They have two children, Ma- 
bel Elizabeth and Edna. He and his family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church, in 
which he holds the office of steward. 



Rambler, Michael Backenstoe, deceased, 
was born in West Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 19, 1831. He was 
a son of Leonard Rambler, also a native of 
Dauphin county, and a grandson of Peter 
Rambler, a native of Germany, who came to 
America and settled in Dauphin county 
about 1780. Leonard Rambler was born 
February 26, 1795, and was one of the 
prominent and wealthy farmers of his day. 
He was a prominent member of the Shells- 
ville Lutheran church. He died August 17, 
1871. His wife was Miss Priscilla Backen- 
stoe. Their children were: John, Mary, 
Henry, Michael, Jane, Eli, and Priscilla; 
three of whom are living, namely: Mary, 
wife of Moses Early, of Shellsville ; Priscilla, 
wife of Benjamin Gingerich. of West Han- 
over, and Eli, of Grantville, Pa. 

Michael B. received his education in the 
schools of Harrisburg and Gettysburg. In 
1855 he came to Middletown and established 
a mercantile business, which he continued 
until his death in 1892. He was one of the 
original stockholders of the American Tube 
and Iron Company, and of the Middletown 
Car Works. He served on the school board 
for many years, and was instrumental in 
establishing the present high school. He 
was treasurer of the school board, and was a 
member of the town council for several 
years. Politically he was a Democrat. He 
was a regular attendant and an active worker 
and supporter of St. Peter's Lutheran church. 
He was married, April 15, 1850, to Miss 
Matilda J. Caskie, daughter of Joseph Cas- 
kie, of Philadelphia, Pa. Their living chil- 
dren are: Leonard G; Julia, wife of Frank 
Nissley, of Middletown, and Alice. He or- 
ganized the Building and Loan Association 
in 1868, and was its treasurer up to the time 



808 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of his death. His grandfather, Peter Ram- 
bler, was burgomaster of Antwerp, Belgium, 
and after coming to America was a commis- 
sioned officer in the Continental army. 



Rambler, Leonard C, son of Michael B. 
Rambler, was born in Middletown, April 8, 
1857. He completed his education in the 
high school of the borough. In 1873 he en- 
tered his father's store, and remained with 
him until 1884, when he engaged with the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company as ticket 
receiver at Atlantic City, N. J. At his fath- 
er's death, in 1892, he returned to Middle- 
town, took charge of his business, and has 
carried it on ever since. He also succeeded 
his father as treasurer of the Middletown 
Building and Loan Association. He was 
married, in 1887, to Miss Anna E. Early, 
daughter of Moses Early, of West Hanover 
township. They have one child, Leonard 
C, Jr. Mr. Rambler is a Democrat. He and 
his wife are members of St. Peter's Lutheran 
church. 



Deckard, Levi L., dentist, Middletown, 
was born in Swatara, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 28, 1828. He is a son of Henry and 
Martha (Ziders) Deckard, natives of Dauphin 
county. His grandfather was a native of 
Germany, and was one of the earliest settlers 
of this county. His father was a carpenter, 
and died about 1830. Their children were: 
Jacob, a carpenter, who was killed by an ac- 
cident, he married a Miss Rigle, and left one 
son, Jacob, residing at Renovo, Clinton county, 
Pa.; Martha, deceased, married Adam Ulrich ; 
Israel, deceased (see sketch of I. L. Deckard 
elsewhere); Henry, retired farmer, of Middle- 
town ; David, deceased; John, deceased, and 
Levi L. 

Levi L. was reared on a farm. He was the 
youngest of the family, and his father died 
when he was four years old. This means 
more uncertainty and greater limitations in 
living and learning than are the lot of the 
ordinary boy, but he had a good home on 
the farm, and the usual summer work and 
winter schooling which farmer boys enjoy. 
Such an experience is not without substan- 
tial benefits in the way of practical knowl- 
edge of men and affairs and training for the 
business of life. This was his lot up to 1839, 
when he was over ten years of age, when he 
came to Middletown. In 1847 he engaged 



with Conkle & Sayford, of Harrisburg, with 
whom he remained one year. In 1848 
he became connected with Souders & War- 
ren, of Philadelphia, for a short period. He 
then returned to Middletown and engaged 
in the merchant tailoring business. In 1855 
he began the study of dentistry under Dr. 
Carman, of Harrisburg ; he finished his pro- 
fessional preparations with Dr. Armstrong, 
of Philadelphia, and afterwards remained 
with him for several years. He again re- 
turned to Middletown and opened an office, 
where he has since continued to practice his 
profession. Dr. Deckard is one of the oldest 
practicing dentists in Pennsylvania. He is 
also prominent in his profession. He is the 
inventor and patentee of the Electric Dental 
Spring Machine, for the painless extraction 
of teeth,' which is quite generally used by 
dentists throughout the country. In 1855 
he married Miss Elizabeth Brestle, daughter 
of Peter Brestle, of Middletown. She died 
January 11, 1888, leaving no children. Dr. 
Deckard is a Democrat. He is an attendant 
and supporter of the Presbyterian church. 



Ulrich, Sylvester, M. D., Middletown, 
was born in Lebanon county, Pa., October 
9, 1862. He is a son of Sebastian and Cath- 
erine (Eagle) Ulrich. His father is a native 
of Germaii3 r , and his mother of Lancaster 
county, Pa. His father is a carpenter and 
was connected with the Colemans in Leb- 
anon county for many years. During the 
war of the Rebellion he was in the employ- 
ment of the United States Government, en- 
listed.in the corps of mechanics, and engaged 
in bridge building. The Doctor removed 
with his parents to Lancaster county when 
he was two years old, and was educated at 
the high school of Elizabethtown. He read 
medicine under Dr. Lingle, of Middletown, 
and attended the Hahnemann Medical Col- 
lege, of Philadelphia, from which he gradu- 
ated in 1890. He then succeeded to the 
practice of Dr. A. P. Bowie, of Uniontown, 
Fayette county, Pa. In 1891 he located in 
Middletown, where he has since practiced 
his profession. He is a member of the South 
Central Homeopathic Medical Society of 
Pennsylvania. Dr. Ulrich is active in the 
Democratic party. He was married, in 
1892, to Miss Emma Hargleroth, daughter 
of George Hargleroth, of Elizabethtown, 
Lancaster county. He and his wife are 
members of St. Mary's Catholic church. 




wO^^i^ 



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■bv-t *< , A/& 




'i^L 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



811 



The Croix Family. — The first of the Croll 
family to settle in Dauphin county was John 
Croll, a native of York county, Pa., who set- 
tled in Middletown at an early day and estabr 
lished one of the first tanneries of the town. 
He had three sons: John, Abner, and Henry, 
and one daughter, Lydia, who married Philip 
Ettle. The eldest of these sons, John, en- 
gaged in the tanning business in Middle- 
town. He was connected with the Middle- 
town Bank under Hon. Simon Cameron. 
He was a member of the Lutheran church 
and for many years its treasurer. He organ- 
ized the first Sunday-school and superin- 
intended it for over fifty years. He was also 
trustee of the Emaus Orphan Home. He 
married Eliza Lauman, daughter of William 
Lauman. Their children are: Elizabeth, 
Susan, and Annie, residing in Middletown ; 
Maria L., who married Rev. W. M. Baum, 
D. D., pastor of St. Matthew's Lutheran 
church, Philadelphia ; Caroline and Maggie, 
deceased ; George L., deceased ; and Emeliue, 
who married Dr. J. P. Keller, of Harrisburg. 
Henry Croll learned the shoemaker's trade, 
and afterwards engaged in the butchering 
business, which he continued until his death. 
He married Mary, daughter of Philip Old- 
weiler, and left several children ; one child, 
Mary, wife of Joseph Nissley, of Middletown, 
Pa., survives. 

Abner Croll was born in Middletown, Sep- 
tember 9, 1800, and learned the trade of 
hatter. Afterwards he succeeded to. his 
father's business. He married, September 6, 
1827, Rachel, daughter of John Shelly, of 
Londonderry township. He died August 27, 
1835 ; his wife November 29, 1875. He was 
a prominent member of the Lutheran church 
and a leader of the choir. His children were: 
John S., who died in York, Pa., in 1880; 
William A., of Middletown ; Lydia S., wife 
of Jacob L. Nissley, of Middletown ; Luther 
H, who was professor of mathematics of 
Pennsylvania College, and died at Gettys- 
burg. 

George L. Croll, son of John Croll, second, 
was born in Middletown in 1823. He was 
educated in the schools of the borough. At 
the age of sixteen he became a clerk in a 
general store in York, Pa. About 1853 he 
returned to Middletown and formed a part- 
nership in the general mercantile business 
with Frederick Lauman; under the firm 
name of Lauman & Croll, which continued 
for a few years. Pie then purchased his 
partner's interest and carried on the business 

52 



until his death, in 1874. He was considered 
one of the prominent business men of the 
town He had interests in the Middletown 
Furniture Company. He was a Democrat. 
He served as a member of the school board. 
In 1854 he married Sarah Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Dr. Mercer Brown, of Middletown. 
She died in September, 1882. They were 
members of the Lutheran church. They had 
these children : Mercer B., physician, of Fre- 
mont, Neb., born in 1855 ; John, of South 
Boston, Va., born in October, 1856, an or- 
dained minister of the Lutheran church ; 
Edward L., of Middletown ; George L., of 
Sparrow's Point, Md., born in 1861 ; Re- 
becca Brown, born in 1863 ; Frank, who died 
in 1891, aged twenty-four years ; Raymond 
L., student of music at Cincinnati, 0. 

Edward L. Croll, proprietor of the Middle- 
town Furniture Company, was born in Mid- 
dletown, December 15, 1858. He received 
his education in the public schools, and took 
a special course in the Pennsylvania College 
at Gettysburg. He then went to Philadel- 
phia and engaged with John E. Fox & Co., 
bankers. Afterwards he became connected 
with the Union National Bank, where he 
remained for nearly five years, being pro- 
moted to assistant receiving teller. He re- 
signed this position in 1S82, and became 
connected with the Middletown Furniture 
Company, in which he was a stockholder. 
In December, 1884, he and his brothers George 
and John purchased the controlling interest 
in the company, and became its managers. 
On June 10, 1895, he purchased the control- 
ling interestand hassince conducted the busi- 
ness of the company. They manufacture 
cabinet work, and receive many Government 
contracts for postoffice furniture. Mr. Croll is 
a Democrat. He is a member of Swatara 
Council, No. 949, R. A. He is an active 
member of the Lutheran church, and has 
for several years served as deacon and secretary 
of the council of the church. 

William A. Croll was born in Middletown, 
February 17, 1830. He is a son of Abner. 
a sketch of whom is given elsewhere in this 
volume, and Rachel, daughter of John Shelly. 
He was educated in the borough schools, and 
engaged in farming. He was appointed 
principal of the Emaus Orphans' Home in 
February, 1866, and has since held that 
position, lie was elected justice of the peace 
in 1874, and still continues in that office. 
In June, 1882, he was appointed notary 
public. He sent a substitute to the war of 



812 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the Rebellion, and afterwards joined Colonel 
Young's cavalry, but was discharged on 
reaching Harrisburg. He was one of the 
organizers, and a director of the Middletown 
Water Company, and one of the original 
stockholders in the Middletown Car Works. 
He was married, May 24, 1855, to Miss Annie 
Faber, daughter of Adam Faber, of Adams 
county. They have four children : Abner, 
merchant of Middletown ; William L., prac- 
ticing dentistry in Londonderry ; Charles E., 
and Edward Hillis, of Middletown. Mr. 
Croll and his family are active and prominent 
members of St. Peter's Lutheran church, in 
which he has for many years filled the office 
of trustee. 



McCreary, Elijah, Middletown, was 
born in York county, Pa., October 24, 1826. 
He is a son of John and Maria (Lutz) Mc- 
Creary, and a grandson of Isaac McCreary, 
a native of Scotland, who first settled in 
Chester county, Pa., and removed to York 
county during the Revolutionary period. 
John, father of Elijah, was born there. He 
was a carpenter and removed to Dauphin 
county in 1837; he located in Middletown 
and engaged in hotel keeping. He died in 
1843, leaving four children : Mary, wife of 
Jacob Patton, now deceased ; Elijah ; Maria, 
wife of Frederick Morningstar, of Middle- 
town, and John, who was killed on the 
Pennsylvania railroad, December 8, 1892. 
Elijah and Maria are now the only surviv- 
ing members of the family. 

Elijah came to Middletown with his par- 
ents and engaged as driver on the State and 
Union canals ; this occupation he followed 
until 1843. On March 10, 1844, he was ap- 
prenticed to John Watson to learn boatbuild- 
ing. After serving six months of his appren- 
ticeship he was bound out until he became 
of age, a period of three years and seven 
months. He was then recommended by 
Simon Cameron and Joseph Ross to a place 
in the United States navy yard, at Phila- 
delphia, but did not accept the appointment. 
He took a trip through the West with his 
brother John, visiting Chicago, Louisville, 
Cairo, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, and 
other places, traveling all the way by water, 
and returning to Middletown in 1849. In 
1850 he and his brother John and Jacob 
Patton engaged in boat building. Pat- 
ton retired from this firm after one year, 
and the McCrearys continued the business- 



for many years, and were very successful. 
They also engaged in merchandising, deal- 
ing very extensively in pork, and for many 
years conducted a saw mill. Mr. McCreary 
was also engaged in the coal and ice busi- 
ness for about eight years. He is not now 
engaged in any active business, but spends 
the autumn of his life in comparative re- 
tirement amidst the surroundings of his 
home and family. In 1S54 he married Miss 
Laura Sheffer, daughter of Adam Sheffer, of 
Marietta. She died in 1872, leaving five 
children : Wesley, Elmer E., Elijah P., Car- 
rie, wife of Alfred Antrim, and Laura, wife 
Grant Croll, all of Middletown. He was 
again married, in 1881, to Miss Eleanor V. 
Duck, daughter of Washington Duck, of 
Columbia, by whom he has two children : 
Estella and May. Mr. McCreary was for- 
merly active in political matters. He 
served nine years in the borough council 
and seven years as member of the school 
board. He and his family attend the Bethel 
church. 



Deckard, Dr. I. K., postmaster, Middle- 
town, was born in Middletown, June 27, 
1862. He is a son of Israel and Nancy 
(Kline) Deckard. His father was a miller, 
and conducted the grist mill for the Cam- 
eron Furnace Company for about thirty- 
five years. He died March 19, 1889. ^ His 
wife, who was a daughter of Joseph Kline, 
of Lancaster county, and a native of Lingles- 
town, Dauphin county, survives him. Their 
family consists of six children : Mary, wife 
of Andrew Yingst, of Middletown ; Jacob, of 
Middletown ; Caroline, wife of E. C. Brinser, 
of Londonderry township ; Henry, of Sioux 
City, Iowa ; Barbara, wife of John H. Horst, 
of Middletown, and Israel K. 

Israel K. was educated in the public 
schools of Middletown. In 1885 he was ap- 
pointed to a position in the railway mail 
service. This position he filled with credit 
to himself and with satisfaction to the pub- 
lic for four years. In 1889 he resigned it 
with a view of preparing himself for profes- 
sional work. He entered the American 
Veterinary College, in New York City, took 
a three years' course, and was graduated in 
1891. He returned to Middletown, and has 
since been engaged here in the practice of 
his profession. On October 1, 1895, he was 
appointed postmaster of Middletown by 
President Cleveland. He is the first repre- 



DA UPHIN COUNTY. 



813 



sentative of the Democratic party to receive 
the appointment of postmaster of Middle- 
town for thirty-four years. 



Deckard. Jacob B., feed dealer, Middle- 
town, Pa., was born in Middletown, Febru- 
ary 13, 1849. He was educated in the pub- 
lic schools, and was afterwards engaged in 
the feed and milling business with his father. 
He established his present business in 
1893. In the same year he was married to 
Miss Emma Parthemore, daughter of David 
Parthemore, of Highspire, Pa. In politics 
he is Democratic. He is a member of the 
borough council. His wife is a member of 
the Bethel church. He attends the Lu- 
theran church. 



Keener, Harry 0., was born in Eliza- 
bcthtown, Lancaster county, Pa., June 24, 
1870. He is a son of Joseph G. and Kate 
(Oldweiler) Keener. His father was born at 
Chickey's Mills, Lancaster county, Pa., April 
10, 1845, and was educated in the public 
schools of Mt. Joy, Pa. He learned the 
milling business of Brandt & Manning, of 
Mt. Joy, and pursued that occupation for 
many years. He operated the Elizabethtown 
grain warehouse and elevator from 1877 to 
1887, when he came to Middletown and 
established the firm of J. C. Keener & Son, 
in the general warehouse business, which 
continued until bis death in 1889. This 
firm also purchased the Robert P. Long 
brickyard property, which they enlarged and 
remodeled so as to carry on an extensive 
business in that line. He was a member of 
the Middletown Market Company and a 
stockholder in the Elizabethtown Exchange 
Bank. In politics he was Republican. He 
served as school director and member of the 
borough council for many years. He was a 
member of the Bethel church. He died sud- 
denly on the train, June 10, 1891, when re- 
turning from attending an annual conven- 
tion of the brickmakers of the United States, 
held at Washington, D. C. He married Miss 
Kate Oldweiler, of Lancaster county, who 
survives him. They had five children : 
Harry 0., Annie O., Mary A., James B., and 
Joseph, Jr. 

Harry ( >. received his education in the 
Elizabethtown high school, the Franklin and 
Marshall and the Commercial colleges of 
Lancaster county. He became a partner in 
his father's business in 1887 under the firm 
name of J. C. Keener & Son. Since the death 



of his father, which occurred in 1S89, he has 
had entire charge of the business. Although 
young in years and in experience, he has 
proved himself abundantly qualified to man- 
age interests of magnitude and importance. 
He is a stockholder in the Middletown Market 
Company and its secretary. He is also a 
stockholder in the Champion Manufacturing 
Company of Middletown. He is an active 
worker in the Republican party. Mr. Keener 
married, April 9, 1890, Miss Sarah Elizabeth 
Fackler, daughter of Joseph Fackler, of Mid- 
dletown, and stepdaughter of John \Y. Re- 
walt. He is a member of the Bethel church 
and is a sympathizer and co-worker in all 
movements and measures for promoting the 
material and moral welfare of the commu- 
nity. He takes a special interest in the 
Young Men's Christian Association, of which 
he is an active member. 



Dasher, Hiram D., merchant, Middle- 
town, Pa., was born in Londonderry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., August 24, 1838. 
He is a son of Charles and Catherine (Bal- 
mer) Dasher, of Dauphin and Lancaster 
counties respectively. Peter Dasher, his 
grandfather, was a native of Germany, and 
a stone mason ; he married Miss Hufty. 
The parents of Hiram D. were married in 
1828, and settled upon a farm in London- 
derry township, Dauphin county. The 
father died there in February, 1S90. The 
mother is still living. They had four chil- 
dren : Nancy, wife of John Frantz, of Roy- 
alton, Pa.; Hiram D.; Mary, wife of Reuben 
Snavely, of Middletown, and William, of 
Middletown. 

Hiram D. received his education in the 
township schools. He learned bricklaying, 
and followed this occupation for some years. 
In 1801 he enlisted in company D, Ninety- 
third regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers ; 
re-enlisted in 1804 as a veteran and was 
honorably discharged June 27, 1805. During 
his service in the army he was promoted 
from the rank of private to be sergeant, sec- 
ond lieutenant and first lieutenant, He 
served in the Army of the Potomac, and was 
a sharer in the marches, battles, defeats and 
victories of that great army. He was in the 
hat ties of Fair ( )aks, the Seven Days' fighting, 
Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, 
and other engagements. He is justly en- 
titled to the rewards and honors which a 
prosperous and grateful people delight to 
render to the defenders and preservers of the 



814 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENGYGL OPEDIA 



Nation. After the close of the war he became 
a contractor for masonry in Middletown, 
and carried on this business until 1876. He 
erected many of the prominent buildings of 
the town. In 1876 he engaged in mercantile 
business, and has continued in the same 
since that date. Mr. Dasher's politics are 
Republican. He has served as a member of 
the borough council. He was married in 
1860 to Miss Delilah Corl, daughter of 
Henry Corl, of Cumberland county, Pa. 
They have three children : Robert F., mar- 
ried to Mary Nauss ; Charles Henry, married 
Minnie Fleck, and has one child, Fern 
Marie; Lillian, wife of William Wagner, of 
Middletown, has three chilbren : Blanche 
L., Claude N., and Hiram D.; George, and 
Washington D. Mr. Dasher is a member of 
the United Brethren church. 



Nissley, John L., dealer in farming imple- 
ments, Middletown, Pa., was born in Lon- 
donderry township, January 12, 1842. He 
is a son of Martin and Mary (Longenecker) 
Nissley, and a grandson of Martin Nissley, a 
farmer of Londonderry township, who also 
conducted a grain mill and distillery. His 
children were : Jacob, who succeeded to his 
father's business, and died in 1895 ; Mary, 
wife of Martin Nissley, of Derry township ; 
Fannie, wife of Jacob Rife, of Londonderry 
township ; Mrs. Jacob Mumma, of Mechan- 
icsburg, Pa.; Catherine, wife of Christian 
Reesor, of Lebanon county, and Martin. 
The latter, who was the father of John L., 
was born in Londonderry township, and was 
a farmer and tobacco raiser. He engaged in 
the lumber business at Falmouth, and was a 
partner with Abraham Collins in conducting 
canal boats. He was a member of the Men- 
nonite church. In politics he was a Repub- 
lican. He served as school director in the 
township. He died in 1887. His first wife 
died in 1854, leaving four children: John 
L.; Christian, of Swatara township ; Jacob, 
of Lower Swatara township, and Annie, wife 
of H. B. Engle, of Steelton, Pa. His second 
wife was Mary Horst, of Swatara township. 
She survives him and resides in Londonderry 
township. By her he had six children, 
namely : David, of Maryland ; Frank, of 
Lower Swatara ; Amos, of Middletown ; Jo- 
seph, of Lancaster county, Pa.; Emma, wife 
of David Eppler, of Londonderry township, 
and Harvey, of Philadelphia, clerk for the 
South Jersey railway. 

John L. received his education in the pub- 



lic schools. For three years he was em- 
ployed in teaching school. He conducted 
his uncle's grist mill in 1866-67-68. In 
1870 he came to Middletown and became a 
member of the firm of Reider, Ramsey & 
Nissley, conducting a planing mill and lum- 
ber yard. In 1879 he became connected 
with Engle & Bro., and managed their im- 
plement business for seven years. At the 
end of this period he succeeded the firm, and 
has since conducted the business in his own 
interest. In 1865 he furnished a substitute 
in the war of the Rebellion. He is a direc- 
tor and is treasurer of the Londonderr}"- Live 
Stock Insurance Company, and was also the 
secretary of the company for two years. He 
is a member of the Knights of the Golden 
Eagle, Mystic Chain, Knights of Pythias, 
and Knights of Malta. In politics he is a 
Republican. He was married, in 1869, to 
Miss Ada K. Landis, daughter of Abraham 
Landis, of Middletown. They have no chil- 
dren. He and his wife are active members 
of the Bethel church. He served as deacon 
in the church for twelve years. 



Klugh, Jacob Frederick, Highspire, 
Pa., was born in Newberrytown, York county, 
Pa., March 17, 1838. He is a son of Freder- 
ick H. and Catherine (Elicker) Klugh, na- 
tives of York county, who moved to May- 
town, Lancaster county, Pa., in 1840. His 
father was a potter, and also taught school 
in York and Lancaster counties. 

J. F. Klugh was reared in May town, Pa., 
and educated in the public schools. In 
1852 his father died, and he then worked 
with his brother, Henry E. Klugh (now a 
prominent and successful attorney of New 
York City), in his father's pottery at May- 
town, Pa., until the year 1857, when he took 
charge of the pottery himself and carried on 
the pottery business until 1864. In 1857 he 
began teaching school in the winter, and 
continued teaching until 1868, and one term 
after that in 1874 ; and while teaching he 
was principal of the Elizabethtown high 
school three terms, the Manheim high school 
one term, and the Highspire high school 
two terms. In 1865 he engaged in the 
clothing business in Marietta, Pa., and Har- 
risburg. He was bookkeeper for the Eliza- 
bethtown boot and shoe factory, and also 
bookkeeper and local editor on the Harris- 
burg Patriot for a short time. He perma- 
nently came to Highspire in 1870, engaging 
with William K. Wilson, and had charge of 



DAUriUN COUNTY. 



815 



his business and telegraphing until 1882, 
when he began the manufacture of cigars, 
dealing in real estate, surveying and draft- 
ing. He quit manufacturing cigars in tlio 
spring of 18.S9, since which time lie has given 
his attention to real estate, surveying, draft- 
ing, and the office of the justice of the peace, 
to which office he was first elected in 1874, 
and has uninterruptedly served in that ca- 
pacity until tho present time, with the ex- 
ception of two years in the service of the 
United States Government as special exam- 
iner of pensions, under the commissioner of 
pensions, Hon. John C. Black. Recently he 
has purchased about twenty-eight acres of 
finely located land adjoining the town of 
Highspire, which he laid out as "Klughton," 
an addition to Highspire. He is a member 
of Elizabethtown Lodge, No. 128, I. 0. O. F., 
and Dauphin Encampment, No. 10, of Har- 
risburg, Pa. He was the promoter of the 
Middletown, Highspire and Steelton Street 
Railway Company, of which he was a stock- 
holder and director until it was built and 
swallowed up by the East Harrisburg Pas- 
senger Railroad Company, now a part of the 
Harrisburg Traction Company, and was a 
stockholder in the Highspire Car Shops, 
which failed in 1872. and is a stockholder 
of the Highspire Building and Savings As- 
sociation. In 18G5 he married Miss Mary 
C, daughter of George and Matilda (Black) 
Hambright, of Wilmington, Del. They have 
had seven children, five of whom are liv- 
ing, viz: Oliver R.,M. D.,of Harrisburg, Pa., 
Ida Nora, Aaron D., Mary C, and Jacob 
Handcock. Mr. Klugh was brought up a 
Lutheran, which church and Sunday-school 
he regularly attended, but since he is at 
Highspire he is a contributor to and the fam- 
ily attend the United Brethren church. 



Eshleman, John, Highspire, Pa., was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa., November 26, 1842. 
lie is a son of Abraham and Susan (Ebersole) 
Eshleman, natives of Lancaster county. His 
father was a laborer and died in that county, 
lie was a member of the Mennonite church. 
His family consisted of ten children, reared to 
maturity, seven of whom are now living : 
Martha, wife of Uriah Eichelberger, of Du 
Page county, 111.; Susan, wife of Jacob Hirsh, 
of Du Page county, 111.; Adeline, of Du Page 
county, 111.; David, of Nebraska, a saddler; 
Henry, of Marietta, Lancaster county ; Simon, 
of Donegal township, Lancaster county, and 
John. 



John was brought up and educated in Lan- 
caster county. His school days were limited 
by his earnest desire to enter the ranks of the 
breadwinners. He went to work as a wage- 
earner at the age of eleven on the farm of 
David Ebersole. Until lie was twenty-one 
years old he worked at farming for various 
people. During this time he was accumu- 
lating knowledge and experience and gaining 
physical strength and muscular vigor, which 
were to serve him as capital in the business 
of life. Leaving farm work, he engaged as a 
laborer with the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company. Here his superiority to the com- 
mon laborer with whom he was associated 
was soon recognized and appreciated. In a 
short time he was made foreman of the 
" floating gang," and helped to build the 
double track from Middletown to Columbia. 
In 18G8 he moved to Highspire and became 
section foreman for the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, which position he filled until 
1883. In this year he engaged in the lum- 
ber business, in which he has since continued. 
He is a stockholder and director in the Har- 
risburg and Middletown Pike Company and 
a stockholder in the Harrisburg, Highspire 
and Steelton Electric Railway Company. He 
has also large real estate interests. He is 
Republican in politics. He served as as- 
sessor of Lower Swarata township for three 
years. He is superintendent of the High- 
spire Cemetery Association. Recently Mr. 
Eshleman has given further proofs of his 
enterprise by laying out twenty acres of land 
at the east end of Highspire into town lots, 
which is called the Eshleman addition to 
Highspire. These lots are being rapidly pur- 
chased by residents and newcomers, who are 
erecting handsome and comfortable homes, 
and in a very short time this will form one 
of the most picturesque portions of the vil- 
lage. He was married, in 1869, to Miss Ellen, 
daughter of Henry Wolf, of Lower Swatara 
township, by whom he has one child, Harry 
W., born in 1871. Mr. Eshleman is a mem- 
ber of the Church of God. 



Wolf, Franklin, far 
O., was born in York cou 
29, 1849. He is a son 
Lydia (LeFevre) Wolf, 
county, Pa. His father 
tohacco raiser. He was 
of the Lutheran church, 
can in politics. He died 
1852. They had nine chi 



mer, Highspire P. 

nty, Pa., December 

of George W. ami 

natives of York 

was a farmer and 

an active member 

He was Republi- 

in 1868, his wife in 

ldren, two of whom 



816 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



are now living: Annie, wife of Peter Shingle, 
of Goldsboro, York county, and Franklin. 

Franklin was reared in York county and 
educated in the public schools till he was 
sixteen years old, when he became a worker 
for wages, hiring out as a farm laborer. In 
1865 he came to Dauphin county, and lived 
with Hon. Isaac Mumma for thirteen years. 
For the last eighteen years of this period he 
rented his farm and conducted the business 
for himself. In 1878 he engaged with Col. 
John Motter, and has since had charge of 
his farming interests. He is an active Re- 
publican. He has served as school director, 
treasurer and assessor of Lower Swatara 
township. He is a member of Prince Edwin 
Lodge, No. 486, F. & A. M., of Middletown ; 
of the Order of United American Mechanics, 
and of Harrisburg Lodge, No. 68, and En- 
campment No. 10, 1. 0. 0. F., of Harrisburg. 
He was married, in 1869, to Miss Elizabeth, 
daughter of Jacob Hoke, of Lower Swatara 
township. She died December 12, 1883, 
leaving four children : Harry E., married 
Elizabeth, daughter of David Smith, and has 
one child, Walter S.; Emma, wife of David 
Smith, of Lower Swatara township, and has 
two children, Annie and Harry ; John Mot- 
ter, and Harvey J. He was again married, 
in 1884, to Miss Kate R. Duncan, daughter 
of David Ober,of Swatara township,by whom 
he has four children : Clarence, Annie, Ober, 
and Mary. Mr. Wolf and his family attend 
the Lutheran church. 



Alleman, Henry, farmer, Middletown P. 
0., was born on the farm he now occupies, 
February 28, 1832. He is a son of Michael 
and Catherine (Rudy) Alleman. Five broth- 
ers, his ancestors, came from Germany at an 
early day and settled in Berks county, Pa. 
Henry Alleman, grandfather of Henry, was 
born in Berks county and settled in what is 
now Lower Swatara township, where he be- 
came a prominent farmer and distiller. He 
was a member of the Lutheran church and 
helped to build the old Lutheran church of 
Middletown. His first wife was Miss Julia 
Long, of South Annville township, Lebanon 
county. His second wife was a widow Sibert, 
and survived him several years. He was 
buried on the Rook farm. His family con- 
sisted of eight sons and two daughters, 
many of them settled in Ohio. Two died in 
Franklin county, Pa. The maternal grand- 
parents (Rudy) were members of the Re- 



formed church and their bodies are interred 
in Shoop's church cemetery. 

Michael Alleman, father of Henry, was 
born in Lower Swatara township in 1784, 
and was a farmer and distiller. He was a 
prominent member and a deacon in the Lu- 
theran church. He was first a Whig in poli- 
tics, and allied himself with the Republican 
party upon its formation. He served as 
school director for many years. He died in 
1868 ; his wife survived him until 1890. 
They reared six children : Susanna, widow 
of John Cope, of Palmyra, Lebanon county, 
Pa.; Elizabeth, wife of John S. Foltz, of 
Conewago, Pa.; Maria, wife of Michael Con- 
nelly, of Middletown ; Michael R., who was 
trustee in the Emaus Orphans' Home for many 
years, died in 1870; his wife was Leah Royer, 
of Schaefferstown, Lebanon county, Pa., who 
now resides in Steelton ; Henry ; and Joseph 
W., died in 1893, farmer in Lower Swatara 
township, married Margaret K. Royer, now 
residing in Lower Swatara township. 

Henry received his education in the town- 
ship schools, the Middletown high school 
and Pennsylvania College at Gettysburg. 
He taught school in Dauphin county for five 
years. Since 1855 he has been engaged in 
farming. He is an active member of the 
Republican party. He has served as town- 
ship auditor. He is a trustee of Emaus Or- 
phans' Home. He was married to Miss Sa- 
lome Seltzer, daughter of Samuel Seltzer, of 
Middletown. They have had fourteen chil- 
dren : Samuel, of Swatara township, married 
Miss Reed ; Martin, a carpenter, of Middle- 
town, married Miss Meade Wallower; Sarah, 
wife of John V. Ricker, of Swatara town- 
ship ; Henry M., of Swatara township, mar- 
ried Minnie Fisher, resides in Albany county, 
N. Y.; Edward J., of Paxton township, mar- 
ried Sarah Mumma ; Robert G., Abner T., 
Ira F., Mary, Salome, Catherine, Helen, 
David James, and David A., deceased. The 
family are members of the Lutheran church. 
Mr. Alleman has served in all the church 
offices. 



Hooker, Andrew C, Highspire, Pa., was 
born in Highspire, May 3, 1861. He is a son 
of Jacob and Jane (Keplinger) Hocker. His 
father was born in the vicinity of Harrisburg, 
March 25, 1819, and was a son of Jacob 
Hocker, who was born April 17, 1775, and 
died April 8, 1836. Jacob Hocker, Jr., moved 
with his father, by wagon, to Ohio. After 
remaining there a short time he returned to 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



817 



Dauphin county and worked as a driver on 
the Union canal. He invested his earnings 
in the purchase of a boat, which he conducted 
for several years. After this he engaged in 
mercantile business at Union Deposit for a 
short period ; he then came to Highspire and 
opened a store which he conducted until 
1 884, with the exception of one year spent in 
Reading, Pa. He was one of the original 
stockholders of the Highspire Car and Manu- 
facturing Company. He was a member of the 
Order of American Mechanics. He united 
with the Ilummelstown Lutheran church in 
1835. He was Republican in politics, and 
rilled various township offices. He died 
March 28, 1892. His wife survives him. 
They were married in Harrisburg, Decem- 
ber 13, 1842. Their family consisted of eight 
children: Mary, married William K.Wilson, 
and died in Washington ; David K., died in 
Philadelphia; Amelia J., wife of Shannon 
Kore, of Highspire; Robert J., died in in- 
fancy ; Catherine Ann, wife of M. A. Bart- 
lett;' Ella, wife of L. W. Kribbs, of Washing- 
ton ; W. C. A. L., who died in Highspire, and 
Andrew C. 

The latter received his education at the 
public school of Highspire, and entered his 
father's store as a clerk. In 1884 he pur- 
chased the business and continued it until 
1893. Since that time he has devoted his 
attention to his large real estate interests. 
He is a member of the Order of American 
Mechanics. He is a Republican with Prohi- 
bition proclivities. He was married, in 1884, 
to Alice F., daughter of Henry Zimmerman, 
of Lower Swatara township, by whom he has 
four children: Mervyn J., Jacob C, Ivan, 
and Edna Francis. Mr. Hockerand his wife 
are prominent members of the United Breth- 
ren church, of Highspire, in which he holds 
the office of trustee and is a class leader. 

Mumma, Josiah J., farmer, Highspire, Pa., 
was born in Lebanon county, Pa., February 
12, 1841. He is a son of Tsaac and Cathe- 
rine (Kreider) Mumma. He was reared and 
educated in Lebanon county. He came to 
Dauphin county in 1864, and located in 
Lower Swatara township. He was married, 
in 18(32, to Miss Annie Elizabeth Ulrich, 
daughter of Michael Ulrich, of Lower 
Swatara township, a sketch of whom is 
given elsewhere in this volume. Mr.Munima, 
during the progress of the war of the Re- 
bellion, was patriotic and in full sympathy 
with those who sought to maintain the 



Union and perpetuate the life of the Nation. 
He was a young man, just beginning life 
and life's business on the farm, and had just 
married. While he was not so situated 
that he could enlist in the army and render 
service in person, he was yet entirely will- 
ing to bear his part in the patriotic sacri- 
fices which were demanded of all good citi- 
zens. Consequently when he was drafted, 
he cheerfully furnished a substitute who was 
young and strong and able to do full ser- 
vice in his name and place in the army. 
Mr. Mumma is a Republican. He is not an 
office seeker, but is active in the support of 
good men for all places of public trust. He 
has eight children : Catherine, wife of Addi- 
son Shearer, of Hummelstown, Pa.; Michael 
U., of Lower Swatara township.; Ida Alice; 
Josiah J., of Lower Swatara township; Eva 
U., Isaac N., Eluma Le Roy, and Annie 
Elizabeth May. The family are members 
of the Highspire United Brethren church. 

Michael Ulrich, deceased, was born near 
Hummelstown, Pa., November 18, 1811. 
He moved with his parents to Lower 
Swatara township. He was a farmer by oc- 
cupation. He died March G, 1889. He was 
married to Catherine Heicher, of Lower 
Swatara township, who died December 18, 
1883. They had three children, two of 
whom died in infancy. The third, Annie 
Elizabeth, married Joshua J. Mumma, and 
resides in Lower Swatara township. Mr. 
Ulrich and his wife are members of the 
Lutheran church, in which he filled the of- 
fice of elder. 



Strayer, Horace R., farmer, Middletown 
P. 0., was born in Lower Swatara township, 
July 20, 1850. He is a son of Abraham and 
Mary (Rathbon) Strayer, natives of Dauphin 
county. His father was a son of Michael 
Strayer, and was born in Swatara township, 
May 9. 1813. After his marriage he located 
in Lower Swatara township, where he lived 
until his death, November 13, 1S83. His 
wife was born in 1S15, and died in 1S90. 
They were members of the United Brethren 
church. They reared two children: Mary, 
wife of John M. Strickler, of Derry Church, 
and Horace R. 

The latter was educated in the township 
schools and at Palmyra Academy. After 
completing his education ho took his place 
in the ranks of school teachers. He was oc- 
cupied in this vocation for three terms. In 
1870 he married Annie, daughter of Peter 



818 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and Elizabeth (Berks) Hoffman. He en- 
gaged in farming, and found this occupation 
congenial and promising of good returns for 
the labor bestowed. In 1883 he purchased 
the farm he now occupies and cultivates. He 
is regarded as one of the prominent and solid 
farmers of the region. In connection with 
his farm he also conducts a dairy, and has 
a large list of customers to whom he fur- 
nishes a daily supply of milk. His reputa- 
tion is one of strict integrity. As one of his 
patrons expressed it, his cows and his cans 
furnish the same kind of milk. Mr. Strayer 
has three children : Clarence Hoffman, Hor- 
ace, and Albert. He is a Republican in 
politics. He has served as school director 
and as supervisor of the township. He and 
his family are members of the United Breth- 
ren church. 



Bodmer, Edward, proprietor of the Bod- 
mer House, Highspire, Pa., was born in 
Highspire in August, 1859. He is a son of 
Hilarius and Justina (Keller) Bodmer, both 
natives of Germany. Hilarius Bodmer was 
born in Wurtemberg, Germany, January 2, 
1820, and is a son of John and Anna (Bach- 
man) Bodmer. Hisfather died in Germany, 
and he and his mother came to America in 
1840. They located in Harrisburg where 
he worked at the stone mason's trade for 
two years. His mother moved to Ohio, and 
later to Iowa, where she died. Mr. Bodmer 
located in Highspire in 1844, and has since 
resided there. For thirty-two years he was 
employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, and had charge of their masonry 
work from Harrisburg to Philadelphia. He 
also kept a hotel at Highspire for many 
years. He is a member of Harrisburg Lodge, 
No. 68, 1. 0. 0. F. Politically he is a Demo- 
crat. He was married, in Germany, in 1840, 
to Miss Justina, daughter of Christian Keller. 
She died in 1883. They had nine children, 
six of whom are now living : John, a mason, 
of Steelton ; Anna, wife of Edward Orth, of 
Steel ton ; William, of Harrisburg; Sarah, 
wife of Taylor Crownshield, of Harrisburg; 
Catherine, widow of John Douglass, of Har- 
risburg, and Edward. Mr. Bodmer is a 
member of the United Brethren church. 

Edward was educated in the public schools 
of his native place. He learned the trade of 
stone mason, which he followed for four 
years. He then learned baking, and estab- 
lished himself in that business in 1876. He 
was successful in this line of business, and 



continued in it for seventeen years. In 1891 
he purchased the Bodmer House, which he 
has conducted since that date. He is Dem- 
ocratic in politics, and has served as tax col- 
lector of the township. He was married, in 
1888, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Andrew 
Sinigar, of Middletown. They have two 
children, Marion E. and Delia May. Mrs. 
Bodmer is a member of the United Breth- 
ren church. 



Morrow, John C, of the firm of Rohrer & 
Morrow, proprietors of the Highspire Glue 
Works, w«.s born in Mifflin county, Pa., Oc- 
tober 3, 1837 ; son of James W. and Mary 
(Cox) Morrow, natives of Ireland. They 
were married in Mifflin county. The father 
was engaged in the butchering business at 
Hollidaysburg, Pa., where he died. The 
mother died in Harrisburg in 1892. John C. 
was reared in Blair county and educated in 
the public schools. He engaged in the 
butchering business with his father. In 1862 
he came to Harrisburg and was employed by 
the Adams Express Company, for which he 
worked nine years. He was then foreman of 
the Pennsylvania freight house at Harris- 
burg for three years. For several years he 
acted for the Baltimore Fast Freight Line. 
In connection with George F. Rohrer he 
dealt in produce. Later they began the 
manufacture of glue at Harrisburg and in 
1884 removed to Highspire, where they 
erected their present plant. Mr. Morrow was 
married, in 1866, to Miss Ella Hittle, of 
Juniata county, Pa., by whom he has four 
sons : Albert B., married Miss Minnie Smith, 
and has two children, Le Roy and Helen ; 
Joseph W., married Minnie McKinley, 
daughter of Warren McKinley ; George R., 
and John C, Jr. Mr. Morrow and his family 
attend the Presbyterian church. He ranks 
with the solid business men of the com- 
munity; he has the qualities which compel 
success. 



Zimmerman, Solomon, farmer, Highspire 
P. O., was born on the farm he now occupies, 
February 15, 1850. He is a son of Henry 
and Catherine (Hawk) Zimmerman. His 
grandfather was also named Henry, and was 
a son of Peter Zimmerman, of Cumberland 
county, Pa. He came to Dauphin county at an 
early date, married Barbara Greiner, daugh- 
ter of Philip Greiner, and in 1814 purchased 
the farm now occupied by Solomon. He 
was also a wheelwright. He died in 1839 ; 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



819 



his wife survived until March, 1866. He 
was one of the prominent men of his day. 
In politics he was Democratic. They reared 
twelve children to maturity, namely: Re- 
hecca, married Peter Brenner, and died in 
Oherlin, Pa.; Elizabeth, married John Becker, 
died May 19, 1S95, at Springfield, Ohio ; Cathe- 
rine, married Samuel Hanshue, died in 
Steelton, Pa.; Philip died in Middletown; 
Henry ; George, of Springfield, Ohio; Simon, 
died in Ottawa, 111.; Isaac, died in Springfield, 
Ohio; Mary, married Benjamin Brubaker, 
died in Springfield, Ohio; Solomon, died in 
Middletown; Valentine, of Lower Swatara 
township; and Magdalene, widow of Henry 
Meyers, of Conewago township. 

Henry Zimmerman, father of Solomon, was 
horn in Lower Swatara township, in 1816, 
He was educated by his own efforts, not hav- 
ing the advantage of schools. He learned 
the trade of carpenter and millwright, but 
made farming his chief occupation. He be- 
came one of the prominent farmers of the 
county, accumulating a handsome property 
by his own efforts, fie was a Democrat. His 
wife was Catherine, daughter of Christian 
Hawk, of Swatara township, who owned the 
land upon which Oberlin is now built. This 
land was purchased by Henry Zimmerman, 
who, in turn, sold it to the persons who plotted 
the village. Henry Zimmerman died in 1SS2. 
His wife survives and lives at Steelton. They 
were members of the United Brethren church. 
The) r reared nine children, of whom seven 
are now living : Solomon ; Morris, of Spring- 
field, Ohio ; Benjamin, died at seven 
years of age; Mary Ellen, wife of Henry 
Wolf, of Swatara township; Adeline J., 
wife of George Hocker, of Paxtang; Kate, 
died at twenty-four years of age; Samuel 
S., of Steelton ; Alice Frances, wife of A. 
C. Hocker, of Highspire; and Henry R., 
commercial traveler, of Pittsburgh. 

Solomon received his education at the 
White Hall Academy and Lebanon Valley 
College, Annville, and at Millersville Normal 
School. After completing his education he 
became a teacher; lie taught in the schools 
of Middletown, Steelton, < >bcrlin and Swatara 
township. He leased the stone quarries at the 
Half-way House and operated them six years, 
in partnership with George W. Cuinbler. In 
1883 he purchased his present farm. In ad- 
dition to ordinary farming he carries on a 
dairy, and also conducts the stone and lime 
business. He has large interests in Steelton, 
and owns many houses there. He is one of 



the charter members and a director of the 
Highspire, Middletown and Steelton Street 
Railway Company. He is a Democrat in 
politics. He has served as school director of 
the township. He was married, in 1880, to 
Miss Lizzie M., daughter of John E. Ricker, 
of Swatara township. They have no children. 
Mrs. Zimmerman isa member of the Lutheran 
church. 



Orth, Charles, merchant, Middletown, 
Pa., was born in Swatara township, October 
3, 1843. He is a son of Henry and Cathe- 
rine (Eckert) Orth, natives of Germany, who 
came to America in 1837, and located in 
Swatara township, where the father died in 
1846, and the mother in 1853. They were 
small farmers. They were members of the 
Lutheran church. Both are buried in the 
Oberlin cemetery. They had six children, 
three of whom are living : Mary, wife of 
Adam Sheets, of Ida Grove, Iowa; John, of 
Dauphin county, and Charles. 

Charles was reared in Swatara township. 
He enjoyed only limited advantages in the 
public schools. He was put out to work on 
a farm when quite young, and continued to 
be thus employed until 1861. Although 
but eighteen years old, and without the 
knowledge of any business except farming, 
he had strong arms and a brave and hopeful 
heart. With earnest purpose and honorable 
aims he launched his boat upon the stream 
of life. In 1861 he married Miss Barbara, 
daughter of John Stoeffer, of Paxton town- 
ship. He worked by the day for three 
years. The wages were not large, but with 
frugality and self-denial were sufficient for a 
comfortable support. He then took a farm 
from Rev. Solomon Swartz on shares, and 
this proved a step in advance. He removed 
from there to the Dr. Rutherford farm, upon 
which he lived nine years, and then farmed 
for Jacob Bomberger and conducted a dairy 
until 1887. These years upon the farm hail 
been years of success and moderate accumu- 
lation. He was now prepared for another 
advance. He moved into Middletown, and 
in 1888 enrolled his name among the mer- 
chants and purchased his present business, 
which he has since conducted with gratify- 
ing success. 

He is an active member of the Republican 
party. He has served on the school hoard 
of the township for six years. He belongs 
to the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Orth bus 
two children: Edward E., of Steelton, who 



820 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



married Annie, daughter of Hilarius Bod- 
mer, of Highspire, and Annie, wife of Abra- 
ham Fetrow, of Steelton, who has one child, 
Maggie, clerk for Dives, Pomeroy & Stewart, 
of Harrisburg. He is an active member of 
the United Brethren church ; has been a 
trustee of that church for twenty years, and 
for many years a general steward and super- 
intendent of the Sunday-school. 



Roop, John S., merchant, Middletown, 
was born in Londonderry township, Febru- 
ary 25, 1839. He is a son of John and 
Catherine (Shank) Roop. His father was a 
native of Cumberland county, who came to 
Dauphin county as a young man, and pur- 
chased a farm in Londonderry township. 
His mother was a daughter of Michael 
Shank of that township. In 1841 his father 
moved to Middletown and engaged in the 
the tinning business, in which he continued 
for six years. Then he purchased a small 
place near the town, in Londonderry town- 
ship, and lived there three years. He then 
moved to Nissley's Mills, and lived there re- 
tired from business until the death of his 
wife in 1876. He then moved to Middle- 
town and lived with his daughter until 
November 8, 1885, when he departed from 
this life. They were members of the 
United Brethren church. He was a Re- 
publican and was supervisor of the town- 
ship. Of their four children, one died in 
infancy ; those living are : David, of Dan- 
bury, Iowa, journeyman tinner ; Annie, wife 
of John H. Cobaugh, of Middletown, and 
John S. The latter was reared in London- 
derry township. He learned the tinner's 
trade with his father and worked at the 
Middletown Car Shops, at saw milling and 
other occupations. In 1887 he established 
his present business, in which he has since 
continued with success. In 1865 he mar- 
ried Miss Catherine, daughter of Jacob 
Strauss, of Middletown. They had one child, 
William J., who was born April 25, 1867; 
learned the printing trade and is now a 
partner in his father's business ; he was 
married, in September, 1894, to Catherine, 
daughter of George W. and Lydia Shaneor, 
of Middletown. They have one child, Amy 
K. Mr. Roop is a Republican. He has 
been assessor of the Second precinct, Third 
ward, for the past three years. He and his 
family attend the Church of God. 



Baker, Charles H., proprietor of the 
Keystone bakery, Middletown, Pa., was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa., December 28, 1855 ; 
son of Christian and Catherine (Houghen- 
doubler) Baker. His father was a native of 
Germany; married in Lancaster county and 
was in the shoe business at Columbia, Pa. 
Charles H. was reared in Lancaster county 
and pursued the regular course of study in 
the public schools of Marietta, Pa. He was 
active and ambitious and anxious to get 
started in the world. He could not think of 
any better way for a boy to get into buisness 
than the old-fashioned way of learning a 
trade. He was on the lookout for an oppor- 
tunity of getting a knowledge of some useful 
occupation. He found a place in a cigar- 
shop and learned cigarmaking. In posses- 
sion of a trade he started out to find a place 
of employment, and in 1876 alighted upon 
Middletown. The firm of H. Stagman & Co. 
were not only willing to give him work but 
to admit him as a partner ; and it soon be- 
came the firm of Stagman & Baker, our young 
cigarmaker being the junior partner. Busi- 
ness prospered, and the capital must needs 
be further increased ; hence the firm was 
merged into Keystone Cigar Company, of 
which Mr. Baker became foreman. Still 
ambitious for larger things, in 1883 he sold 
his interest in the Keystone Cigar Company, 
and while looking for a place of business he 
took charge of a factory in Lancaster county, 
which employed one hundred hands, the 
business of which he managed for two years 
with credit to himself and satisfaction to his 
employers. 

Meanwhile business prospects brightened 
at his old residence, Middletown. While the 
field here in his own line of business was oc- 
cupied, other branches of trade offered oppor- 
tunities which Mr. Baker was quick to dis- 
cern and prompt to avail himself of. He at 
once engaged in his present business, which 
he is pushing with his characteristic energy 
and skill. He is a director in the Middle- 
town Building and Loan Association. He is 
a member of the Junior Order of American 
Mechanics and of the Knights of Malta. He 
is a Democrat, and was the nominee of his 
party for the Legislature from the Second 
district, and while he was not elected he was 
flattered by a vote largely in excess of the 
strength of his party. He was married, 
June 20, 1878, to Miss Susan, daughter of 
Michael Connelly, of Middletown. They 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



-n 



have four children : Bertha, John, Charles, 
and Raymond. The family are members of 
the Lutheran church. 



Balsbach, Henry, farmer, Oberlin, Pa., 
was born in Derry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 29, 1831 ; sou of John 
and Mary (Zeigler) Balsbach. The mother 
was boru in Lancaster county and the father 
was born in East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county. He was a son of Valentine, a 
son of Valentine (1), who came from Ger- 
many and cultured a tract of land in Derry 
and Hanover township. Valentine, the 
grandfather of Henry, was a minister in the 
German Baptist church, and lived to the ad- 
vanced age of ninety-six years. He married 
Miss Brosh, and they reared a large family. 

John, the father, was a blacksmith by 
trade, and settled in Derry township, where 
he remained until 1827, when he removed 
to Lower Swatara township, and died 
there in 1875, and his wife died in 
1867; both were members of the United 
Brethren church. They had eleven chil- 
dren, of whom nine grew to maturity: 
George, of Oberlin ; Valentine, deceased, 
Middletown ; John, deceased, Juniata county ; 
Elijah, deceased, Lower Swatara township; 
Henry; Solomon, Lower Swatara township; 
Elizabeth, Mrs. John Snyder, of York count}' ; 
Mary, wife of Cornelius Shope, of Oberlin, 
and Annie, unmarried, at Oberlin. 

Henry was reared and educated in bis 
native township and learned the carpenter 
trade, which he followed for some years, 
and later engaged in farming. In politics 
he is a Republican, and served as supervisor 
of the township. He is a member of the 
United Brethren church, and is also a trus- 
tee of the organization and the superintend- 
ent of the Sunday-school. Mr. Balsbach was 
married, in 1855, to Mary, daughter of 
Samuel Ulrich, after which he located on his 
present farm. Their children are: Frank, 
born in 1871, married in 1892 to Miss Jen- 
nie Ebersole, daughter of Martin Lbersole, 
and they have two children, Theo. Mary, 
and Annie Esther; Amelia, wife of Henry 
Stauffer, of Oberlin, and they have three 
children, Jennie, Mary, and Sally; Emma, 
wife of C. 0. Horstic, lives with her father, 
and has three children, Harry, Eva, and 
Lucy. 



Balsbach, Solomon, Oberlin, Pa., was 
born in Lower Swatara township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., October 1, 1838. He learned 
the carpenter trade and followed that occu- 
pation for several years. Later he became a 
farmer, and in I860' engaged in keeping 
hotel at "Running Pump," where he con- 
tinued for some years. He was married, in 
1861, to Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel 
Ulrich, by whom he has five chiidren : 
Elmer, of Paxtang township, married Minnie 
Felix; John, of Oberlin, married Mary Bod- 
rner ; Samuel, Milton, and Naomi. In his 
political views Mr. Balsbach is a Republican 
and has served in the offices of tax collector, 
supervisor and other offices. He is a mem- 
ber of the United Brethren church and is 
also a minister in that denomination. At 
present he is the president of the cemetery 
board. 



Buser, John K., deceased, was born in 
Londonderry township, Dauphin county. 
Pa., July 9, 1818. His father was a native of 
Germany and came to America at an early 
day. He landed at Philadelphia, and after- 
wards located in Londonderry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., where he died at forty- 
five years of age. His children are : Jacob, 
located in Hummelstown, where he was en- 
gaged in butchering and died there ; Henry, 
carpenter by trade and died in Iowa; Levi; 
John K.; Catherine, Mrs. Henry Poorman, 
of Middletown, deceased ; Mattie, Mrs. Henry 
Hisey, of Kansas. 

John K. received his education in his na- 
tive township, and learned the milling busi- 
ness. He operated the Middletown mill for 
eight years, and in 1861 built the grist mill 
at Highspire and conducted it until Ins death 
in 1887. He was a prominent and repre- 
sentative man of the county. He was also 
engaged in the coal business. In his politi- 
cal views he was a Democrat. He married 
Miss Harriet Fogle, daughter of Henry 
Fogle, of Middletown, and granddaughter of 
Israel V. Fogle, of the Steelton flour mill. 
He married, in 1852, for his second wife. Miss 
Elizabeth Stoner, daughter of John Stoner, 
and she died in 1882. Mr. Buser was a 
leading member of the Church of God, in 
which he also held the office of elder for 
many years. By his second wife he had 
eight children : Ira and Milton, twins ; Otis 
S.; Oscar, deceased ; Emma, unmarried ; 



822 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Laura B., wife of George W. Coover, of High- 
spire ; Clara and Alice, both deceased. 

Milton Buser was born in Middletown, 
Pa., February 22, 1853, and was educated in 
the public schools of Highspire, where also, 
he was married in 1861. For twenty years 
he was in the service of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company in different capacities, and in 
1892 he engaged with his brother Ira in 
milling. In politics he was a Democrat and 
served as assessor of Lower Paxton town- 
ship. In 1875 he was married to Miss 
Amanda Attick, daughter of George Attick, 
of Lower Swatara township, and to them has 
been born one child, Mary A. His religious 
fellowship is with the Church of God. 

Ira Buser, proprietor of the Highspire 
mills, was born in Middletown, Pa., Febru- 
ary 22, 1853, and attended the public schools. 
By occupation he was a miller, which busi- 
ness he learned from his father, and has al- 
ways followed. After the death of his father 
he and his brother Otis conducted the mill 
for three years, since which time he has had 
the entire interest. In 1890 he engaged in 
the grocery business, in which he has since 
continued. Formerly Mr. Buser was a Dem- 
ocrat in his political views, but is now an 
independent voter. He was married, in 
1876, to Sarah E., daughter of Jacob Roop, 
of Highspire, and to this marriage there is 
no issue. He is a member of the Church of 
God, in which he holds the offices of elder 
and treasurer. 

Otis S. Buser was born in Middletown, Pa., 
in 1860. He worked with his father in the 
mill until his death, when he and his brother 
Ira purchased the mill and conducted it 
until 1892, when he retired from the firm, 
and engaged in gardening. He was also in 
the flour and feed business at Harrisburg. 
He married Miss Amy Souders, by whom he 
has one child, Guy. 



Bander, Augustus, leather dealer, Mid- 
dletown, Pa., was born in Wurtemberg, Ger- 
many, January 19, 1834; son of David and 
Caroline (Moser) Bander. He was reared 
and educated, and learned the trade of tan- 
ner with his father, in Germany. In 1856 
he came to America, and located in Phila- 
delphia, where he worked at his trade, and 
in 1858 removed to Elizabeth ville, Dauphin 
county, where he worked as a journeyman 
tanner for three years. In 1861 he estab- 
lished a tannery of his own, which he 
conducted until 1888, when he came to Mid- 



dletown, Pa., and for two years was a partner 
in the Rife tannery, after which he was 
for four years with S. B. Luce, in the Meyers- 
town tannery. In 1895 he and his 
son established their present business of 
hides and leather dealers, at Middletown. 
In his political views Mr. Bander is a Re- 
publican. He was married, in 1860, to Miss 
Margaret M., daughter of David Matter, of 
Elizabethville, Dauphin county, by whom 
he has seven children : David, Franklin, 
Aaron W., Charles, William A., Jacob, and 
George W. Mr. Bander is a member of the 
United Brethren church, of Middletown, of 
which he is a trustee, and is treasurer of the 
Sabbath-school. 



Coble, Isaac H., farmer, Middletown P.O., 
Pa.,wasborn in Conewago township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., October 11, 1829 ; son of Chris- 
tian and Elizabeth (Hoffer) Coble, natives of 
Dauphin county. Jacob Coble, the grand- 
father, was a native of Germany and settled 
on the homestead in Conewago township 
and later moved to Derry township, where 
he died. He was a member of the Men- 
nonite church. The father, Christian Coble, 
was born on the homestead and has always 
resided there. He divided it into three 
farms and made important improvements. 
He was ingenious in mechanical work, and 
made a revolving rake for hay and much 
of his farming implements and machinery. 
In political views he was a Republican and 
served as supervisor of his township. His 
death occurred in May, 1873, and that of his 
wife in 1846. They had five sons and one 
daughter, the only survivors of whom are : 
Isaac H., and Christian, farmer and mer- 
chant, of Bellaire, Lancaster county. He was 
again married, to Miss Nancy Snyder, who 
survives him, and to this marriage there is 
no issue. They were members of the Men- 
nonite church. 

Isaac H. was reared on the homestead and 
educated in the public schools. His occupa- 
tion has always been farming. In 1853 he 
was married to Miss Nancy Eshenaur, daugh- 
ter of Frank Eshenaur. He remained on 
the homestead farm until 1858, when he re- 
moved to his present farm, which he has 
greatly improved. They have three sons and 
two daughters: Frank E, of Conewago town- 
ship, married Elizabeth Good, and they have 
four children : Martha, Annie, Lizzie, and 
Aaron ; Aaron, of Londonderry township, 
married Mazie Brinser, and their children 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



823 



are: Harry, Truman, and Ruth ; Mary, wife 
of Joseph Selser, of Derry township; Isaac, 
and Emma, both unmarried, at home. Mr. 
Coble is one of the originators and a stock- 
holder of the Middletown Bracket Company 
and was its manager. He is also a stock- 
holder in the Hummelstown Bank. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican and has served as 
school director and supervisor of the town- 
ship. In church fellowship he is with the 
Mennonites. 



Carmany, Charles Augustus, jeweler, 
Middletown, Pa., was born at Schaeffersville, 
Lebanon county, Pa., October 26, I860; son 
of Jacob and Leah (Houser) Carmany. He 
was reared in his native county, and 
attended the public schools until he was 
sixteen years of age, when he went to Mid- 
dletown, and learned the jeweler's business, 
in which he was employed for some years. 
In 1889 he established his present business, 
which he has conducted since that time. 
Mr. Carmany is a member of the Knights of 
the Golden Eagle and of the Knights of 
Malta. In his political views he is a Repub- 
lican. In 1893 he was married to Miss 
Lillie E. Bresserman, daughter of William 
Bresserman, of Middletown, and they have 
one child, Elva. 



Erb, John, farmer and minister, Harris- 
burg P. 0., Pa., was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., October 13, 1839; son of John 
and Fannie (Berke) Erb. The father was a 
farmer and minister in the Mennonite 
church. He was reared near Manheim, 
Lancaster county, and moved to Cumber- 
land county, where he died. John lost his 
father when he was five years old, and was 
reared in York and Lancaster counties. In 
1862 he was married to Barbara Miller, 
daughter of David Miller, of Lancaster. 
After marriage he located in Lanca te 
county, where he lived until 1867, when he 
came to Dauphin county and purchased the 
farm he now owns and occupies, which he 
stocked with all kinds of fruits, etc. For- 
merly he was a Republican in politics, and 
has always been a member of the old Men- 
nonite church, in which connection he was 
made a minister in 1877. He has served 
the Shoop and Strickler churches, and has 
been active in work since his ordination to 
the ministry. His children are : Mary, wife 
of Frank Nissley, of Lower Swatara town- 
ship ; Annie, wife of Abraham Lutz, of 



Donegal township, Lancaster county ; Bar- 
bara, at home; Ellen, wife of Benjamin Bru- 
baker, of Mt. Joy, Lancaster county ; Eliza- 
beth, died aged twenty-one years; an in- 
fant, deceased ; Amanda, Susan, Alice, Sam- 
uel, John, Emma, and David. 



Engle, Daniel, farmer, Hummelstown 
P. 0., Pa., was born on the farm on which 
he now resides, in August, 1837, and is a 
son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Sheets) Engle. 
His grandfather, Daniel, was the first of the 
family to settle in Dauphin county, having 
came from Lancaster county and being 
among the very early settlers of Dauphin 
county. He was a member of the River 
Brethren. Jacob, the father, was born on 
the farm now occupied by his son, in 1812. 
He spent his entire life there and died in 
1865. He was one of the prominent farmers 
of the township. His wife survived him 
many years, and both were members of the 
River Brethern church, of which connection 
Mr. Engle was also an honored minister. 
Their children are: Daniel; Jacob, farmer 
and speculator, died in Lebanon county ; 
John, of Hummelstown ; Leah, wife of Sam- 
uel Peters, Derry township ; Benjamin, of 
Harrisburg, a contractor ; Samuel, of Pal- 
myra, Pa., merchant. Daniel was reared on 
the farm which he now occupies, and on 
which he spent his entire life. In 1867 
he was married to Miss Mary, daughter of 
Christian Mumma, of Lower Swatara town- 
ship, by whom he has six children: Aaron, 
school teacher, in Lower Swatara township; 
Milton, Clayton, Samuel, Mary, and Morris. 
In his political views Mr. Engle is a Repub- 
lican, and his religious faith and form of 
worship are those of the River Brethren, 
with whom he is in fellowship at Hummels- 
town. 



Fisher, John L., farmer, Steelton, Pa., was 
born in Berks county, Pa., April 27, 1S45 ; 
son of William and Catherine (Levan) 
Fisher. The father came to Dauphin 
county, in 1848, and located in Swatara 
township, where he engaged in farming. 
His present residence in near Linglestown. 
John L. was reared in Swatara township, 
and was educated in the public schools and 
at the Millersville State Normal School. 
He became a farmer and has always followed 
that occupation. Mr. Fisher was married, 
December 22, 1889, to Miss Mary Linebaugh, 
daughter of Edward and Salina (Mackliu) 



824 



Bl GRA PHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Linebaugh, of York county, by whom he has 
one child, William Henry. He located 
near Linglestown, and in 1890 came to his 
present farm in Lower Swatara township. 
In politics Mr. Fisher is a Democrat. The 
family attend the United Brethren church. 

Fisher, John G., Middletown, deceased, 
was born near Elizabethtown, in Lancaster 
county, Pa., in 1830 ; son of John Fisher. 
George, the grandfather of John G., was born 
in Germany in 1752, came to America and 
became a soldier in the Continental army, 
after which he engaged in farming in Lan- 
caster county, where he died. John Fisher, 
father of John G., was born in Lancaster 
county, and was engaged in farming. He 
served in the war of 1812. John G. was 
reared in Lancaster county, and learned the 
trade of coach builder. In 1856 he came to 
Dauphin county and located in Middletown, 
where he opened a shop for building coaches, 
and conducted the enterprise for many years. 
His death occurred in March, 1888. In poli- 
tics Mr. Fisher was a Democrat, and served 
on the school board and in the borough 
council. In 1849 he was married to Miss 
Amanda, daughter of Rev. Henry G. Steelier, 
of Hummelstown. She was a member of 
the Lutheran church, and died in 1893. 
Four of their children lived to maturity : 
Henry S., insurance agent, at Middletown, 
married Clara Rodfong, and they have one 
child, Hattie Romain ; Frank Z., learned the 
shoe business, and engaged in the manufac- 
ture and sale of boots and shoes in 1888, and 
has since continued in the business ; Sarah 
E.,and Walter R., of Middletown. The family 
are members of the Lutheran church. 



Good, Martin, proprietor of the High- 
spire Woolen Mills, was born in Upper Pax- 
ton township, Dauphin county, Pa., August 
2, 1833 ; son of Christian and Catherine 
(Noll) Good. Christian Good, Sr., the grand- 
father, was a native of Lancaster county, and 
was one of the early settlers of Upper Paxton 
township, where he was engaged in farming 
and milling, having the first mill in that place, 
and where he died. His children are: Chris- 
tian; Henry, farmer, died at Progress; Abra- 
ham, died in Perry county, Pa.; Michael, of 
Kansas ; Barbara, Mrs. Christian Roop, of 
Highspire ; Nancy, Mrs. Samuel Shaefner, of 
East Hanover township, who was poisoned by 
her husband; Mary, maiden lady, of Millers- 
burg; Catherine, Mrs. Ritter, of Elizabeth- 



ville ; Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Hoffman, of 
Perry county, deceased. 

Christian, Jr., father of Martin, was reared 
in Lykens Valley and learned the trade of 
woolen manufacturing and continued in the 
business with his father in Lykens Valley. 
In 1833 he moved to Lower Swatara town- 
ship and erected the present " Good " mill in 
1844, which he conducted until 1855, when 
he retired, and shortly after died in Lebanon 
county. He was three times married and 
was the father of fourteen children, of whom 
these are living : Martin ; John, of Morris, 
Minn., hardware dealer ; Simon, of St. Paul, 
Minn, lumber dealer; Sarah, Mrs. Adam 
Light, of Lebanon county ; Emma, Mrs. David 
Light, of Lebanon county ; Catherine, Mrs. 
Casper Light, of Morris, Minn. Mr. Good 
is an active member of the United Brethren 
church and has been a class leader for many 
years. 

Martin was reared on the present home- 
stead and learned the trade of his father; he 
has always been in the business, and pur- 
chased his father's interest in 1855, since 
which date he has conducted the enterprise. 
He keeps his plant and its equipment abreast 
of the times. He is also engaged in farming 
and operating a saw mill. In 1865 he 
opened a general store, which he has man- 
aged since that time. Mr. Good is a director 
of the Steelton National Bank and of the 
Merchants' Bank, of Harrisburg. In his 
politics he is a Republican and has served in 
various township offices. Mr. Good was mar- 
ried, in 1858, to Mary Ann Peffly, daughter 
of Rev. Christian Peffly, of Bunker Hill, 
Lebanon county. They attend the United 
Brethren church. 



Hatz, Jacob W., retired, Middletown, Pa., 
was born in Londonderry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 29, 1823 ; son of Jacob 
and Anna Mary (Wagner) Hatz. Three broth- 
ers of the name came from Germany, one of 
whom settled in Lancaster, one in Lebanon, 
and one in Dauphin county. John Hatz, 
son of the one who settled in Dauphin, and 
grandfather of Jacob W., came with his 
parents to America when a small child. Ja- 
cob, the father of Jacob W., was a farmer 
in Londonderry township on his father's 
farm which he leased. Later he became a 
tenant farmer in Lancaster county, when 
he died. Pie was twice married, and by his 
first wife, Anna Mary Wagner, had five chil- 
dren, all of whom are deceased except Jacob 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



825 



W. By his second wife, Miss Susan Keller, 
he had eleven children. The family were 
members of the Lutheran church. 

Jacob W. was reared by his maternal 
grandparents, and at eighteen years of age 
learned the carpenter trade at which he 
worked until 1863. For the next twelve 
years he was a tenant farmer in Londonderry 
township, after which he moved to Middle- 
town and was with Etter, Carmany & Siple 
in the lumber business for several years. In 
1841* Mr. Iiatz was married to Elizabeth, 
daughter of John Aungst, of Lancaster 
county. Their children arc: John, born Au- 
gust 3, 1850, lives at Middletown, married 
Mary, daughter of Jacob Nissley, and the)' 
have four children : Garfield W., Jacob N., 
Pearl, and Blanche ; Henry, born January 6, 
1852, married Elizabeth, daughter of David 
Detweiler, and they have two children, Fannie 
and Blaine ; Jacob, born September 13, 1856, 
married Ellen Coble, and have three chil- 
dren: Maude, Guy, and Reuben; David, born 
October 6, 1859, married Miss Barbara 
Brinser, and they have four children : May, 
Bessie, Ralph, and Marion ; Annie, born 
January 29, 1862, wife of Henry Douhower, 
of McKecsport, Pa., and they have two chil- 
dren, Marion and Robert; and Elizabeth, 
born September 1, 1872. The family attend 
the Church of God. Mr. Ij^atz was orig- 
inally a Whig but later joined the Repub- 
lican part)'. In 1S64 he served as tax col- 
lector in Londonderry township and has 
also filled the offices of school director and 
auditor of the township. 



Hoffer, Christian H, Esq., Middletown, 
Pa., traces his ancestry through Samuel (2), 
his father, Samuel (1), his grandfather, John, 
his great-grandfather, and Mathias Hoffer, 
his great-great-grandfather, who was born Au- 
gust 24, 171S, in the Canton of Basle, Switzer- 
land. He came to America in the ship 
" Loyal Judith," landed in Philadelphia, Sep- 
tember 2, 1743, and later settled near Man- 
heim, Lancaster county, where he died in 
May, 1803. His son, John Hoffer, married 
Barbara Long, and lived in what is now 
Conewago township, Dauphin county, where 
he died December 4, 1837. His son, Samuel 
Hoffer (1), married Catherine Foltz, and set- 
tled in Conewago township, where he died No- 
vember 4, 1878. He was an expert in land 
surveying, and served as deputy, and later. 'is 
county surveyor of Dauphin county, and was 
also justice of the peace for thirty-four years. 



His children are: Samuel, of Bachmansville; 
George F., on the old homestead in Conewago 
township; Catherine, Mrs. John Snyder, of 
Paris, 111.; Mary, Mrs. Isaac Hoffman, of Derry 
township. Samuel, the grandfather, was a 
member of the German Baptist church. 

His son, Samuel (2), father of Christian H, 
was born July 31, 1817, and married Barbara, 
daughter of Christian Hollinger. He was a 
farmer in Conewago township, and is now re- 
tired from active business. He also is a mem- 
ber of the German Baptist church. His wife 
died November 22, 1881. They had eleven 
children, nine of whom are living: Chris- 
tian H., Samuel H., Mary Ann, Amos H., 
Elizabeth, Linneus, Harry H., Sarah, and 
Barbara. 

Christian! H. was born in Conewago town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., July 29, 1845. He 
was educated in the public schools and 
learned surveying with his grandfather. In 
1S74 he came to Middletown and the follow- 
ing year was appointed on the board of street 
commissioners. Later he was made borough 
surveyor and filled this office for nineteen 
years. In 1S87 he was elected borough sur- 
veyor of Steelton, Pa., in which office he has 
since served with the exception of one year. 
At the first election held in the township 
after he attained his majority he was elected 
justice of the peace and served until 1871, 
when he removed to Lancaster county and 
remained two years. He returned to the 
township and was re-elected to the office of 
justice of the peace, succeeding Esquire Shats- 
man, and has since been continuously com- 
missioned in this office. Mr. Hoffer was the 
instigator of the new addition to Middletown. 
He was married, in 1871, to Miss Mary, daugh- 
ter of Henry Teghtmeyer, of Londonderry 
township, by whom he has one child : Ger- 
trude. The family are members of the Bethel 
Church of God. 



IIautmax, MAURICE H, merchant, Mid- 
dletown, was born in Hummelstown, Feb- 
ruary 7, 1859 ; son of Peter and Mary (Hertz- 
ler) Hartman. The father was a native of 
York, and the mother of Dauphin county. 
The occupation of the father was that of 
blacksmith, and later in life he settled on a 
farm in York county, where he died in 
August, 1864. He reared a family of ten chil- 
dren, of whom Maurice II. was the fifth in the 
order of their birth. Maurice II. was reared 
in York county, where he attended the pub- 
lic schools and worked on the farm until he 



826 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



was nineteen years of age, after which he 
learned the trade of cabinet maker, and 
worked at it four years. In 1882 he em- 
barked in the grocery business at Middle- 
town and the same year purchased the 
wholesale oil business, which he conducted 
for six years. He then entered the firm of 
Hartman & Bros., in the grocery business, 
in which he continued until February 11, 
1891, and on May 1, 1891, established 
his present business as a general store. He 
is also connected with the Champion Man- 
ufacturing Company, of Middletown, in 
which he is a stockholder. Mr. Hartman is 
a member of the Patriotic Order Sons of 
America, the Junior Order United Ameri- 
can Mechanics, and of the American Pro- 
tective Association. In politics he is a Re- 
publican and is a member of the city coun- 
cil. He was married, in 1879, to Miss Sarah 
J. Wise, daughter of Peter Wise, of Golds- 
hoi'o, York county, Pa. Their children are: 
Urban A., Marion M., Stella M., Laura J., 
Bertha E., Isabella W., and Earl P. The 
family attend the Lutheran church. 



William, who are all at home. He and his 
family attend the Presbyterian church, of 
Middletown. 



Hendrickson, William D., Middletown 
was born at Mt. Joy, Lancaster county, Pa., 
September 17, 1829 ; son of Okey and Mary 
(McDowell) Hendrickson. The father was a 
native of New Jersey. He kept a hotel at 
Mt. Joy and was the first postmaster of the 
place, under President Jackson, and died 
there in 1841. William D. was reared and 
educated at Mt. Joy, where he was engaged 
in merchandising until 1859, when he came 
to Middletown and engaged in the lumber 
business as a member of the firm of Daniel 
Kendig & Co., in which he continued until 
1880, when he retired. In 1890 he was 
elected tax collector and since 1894 has col- 
lected all the taxes. In earlier life he was a 
Whig in politics, and came into the Repub- 
lican party when it was organized, having 
always been interested in political affairs. 
He has served as a member of council, and 
of the school board, and as judge of elections. 
Mr. Hendrickson was one of the original 
stockholders in the Middletown Water Com- 
pany, and for a time served as the secretary 
of that organization, and was a stockholder 
also in the Car Works. He was married, in 
1857, to Miss Louisa E., daughter of Daniel 
Kendig. She died in 1891, and three chil- 
dren survive her : Alice K., Annie G., and 



Hemperly, Leurs F., Middletown, Pa., 
was born at Middletown, Dauphin county, 
Pa., August 17, 1814 ; son of George and 
Sarah (Fishburn) Hemperly. Martin Hem- 
perly, paternal grandfather of Leurs F., was 
a native of Germany, and one of the early 
citizens of Middletown. He was a stone 
mason by trade, and reared four children, 
who are all deceased. The maternal grand- 
father, Ludwig Fishburn, was a soldier in 
the Revolutionary war. He came from Ger- 
many and took up a large tract of land in 
what is now Derry township, near Hockers- 
ville. George Hemperly, the father, was a 
painter by trade, and married Sarah Fish- 
burn, and they were members of the Lu- 
theran church. Leurs F. was married at 
Derry Church, Dauphin county, Pa., Janu- 
ary 3, 1839, to Catherine Motter, daughter 
of Philip and Elizabeth (Reed) Motter. 
After marriage Mr. Hemperly moved to Mid- 
dletown and engaged in the saddle and har- 
ness business, which was his occupation 
during his business life. His children are : 
Luther, John M., Calvin, Elizabeth, Anne, 
and Emma, five of whom are living. 



Irwin, Philip, son of Henry and Mar- 
garet (Fisher) Irwin, was born August 30, 
1815, in Lancaster county, Pa. His educa- 
tional advantages were comprised in one or 
two winters at a country school. By self- 
application and industry, however, he be- 
came well-informed, and with great activity 
and energy was generally successful in his 
various undertakings. For many years he 
was engaged in building railroads, the 
scenes of his operations being the Northern 
Central, Ohio and Mississippi, Erie, Leba- 
non Valley, Lake Shore, Michigan Southern 
and other railroads. Although an active 
politician he never sought or held office, his 
business interests requiring all his time and 
attention. He died at Middletown, Decem- 
ber 11, 1878, aged sixty-three years. Mr. 
Irwin married, November 24, 1840, Anna 
Eliza, daughter of George and Nancy (Shelly) 
Etter, who survives. Their children are: 
Margaret, Ann, Mary Ellen, George, Henry, 
Franklin Etter, Jenny Lind, Philip Etter, 
and Lillian. 






«&zi/i vdf -%. jA&t^ft&^y 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



829 



Kaufman, Benjamin S., justice of the 
peace, Highspire, Pa., was born in Milltown, 
Chester count}-, Pa., September 10, 1828; 
son of Henry and Susan (Snyder) Kaufman. 
The father was a native of York, and the 
mother of Lancaster county. Benjamin S. 
was reared in York county from two years 
of age, and received his education in the 
public schools. He was reared on the farm 
and for his first business worked at farm 
work by the day. He was employed by his 
father tor two years, and in 1S56 came to 
Highspire, where he engaged in the butcher- 
ing business, and attended the Harrisburg 
markets, and subsequently purchased a boat 
which he conducted for two years. For sev- 
eral years following this he was interested in 
the manufacture of brick. At present he is 
gardening and raising poultry. Mr. Kauf- 
man was married, in 1851, to Miss Mary K., 
daughter of John Fisher, of York county, 
who died in 1885, leaving three children : 
Annie, Mrs. Daniel Beirhour, of York county ; 
John, of Decatur, 111.; and David L., attorney 
atlHighspire and Harrisburg. He was mar- 
ried, secondly. January 4, 1887, to Mary A. 
Fisher, daughter of James Fisher, of Lower 
Swatara township. Mr. Kaufman is a Re- 
publican in politics, and was first elected 
justice of the peace in 1863, and has held 
the office by repeated elections since that 
date. He is a member of Dauphin Lodge, 
No. 160, I. 0. 0. F., and of Council No. 155, 
0. U. A. M. In his religious faith and 
form of worship he is united with the United 
Brethren church, in which he takes an 
active part, and is a member of the board of 
trustees. 



Kohr, Michael, farmer, Middletown P. 
0., was born in York county, Pa., October 
19,1824; son of Ludwig and Rebecca (Eisen- 
haur) Kohr, natives of Lebanon county, sub- 
sequently residents of York county, where 
he died. Michael was married, in 1847, to 
Henrietta Stormfrietz, who died in 1S71, 
and to this marriage there was bom five 
children : Annie, wife of James Harvey, of 
Lower Swatara township ; Fannie, wife of 
John Chrismer, of Londonderry township; 
Mary, wife of Peter Shank, of Londonderry 
township; Samuel, deceased ; and David, of 
Lower Swatara township. He was married, 
secondly, in L872, to Miss Mary Hostetter, of 
Lebanon county, by whom he has two chil- 
dren : Amanda, wife of R. O. Seitz, of Lower 
Swatara township ; and Christian, at home. 
53 



After his first marriage he removed to Lan- 
caster county, and worked at his trade of 
carpenter until about 1865, when he came to 
Dauphin county, and located in London- 
derry township. In 1874 he moved on his 
present farm, in Lower Swatara township, 
which he has been engaged in cultivating 
till the present time. Mr. Kohr takes no 
interest in politics and is not identified with 
any party. In religious faith he is a Men- 
nonite. 



Lehman, John J., merchant, Highspire, 
Pa., was born at Middletown, Pa., October 
10, 1842; son of Daniel and Susan (Detweiler) 
Lehman. Christian Lehman, grandfather of 
John J., early settled in Dauphin county and 
w T as a large farmer near Middletown. His 
children are: Henry, Martinsburg, Ohio; 
David, located atMiddletown and died there; 
Martin, merchant of Highspire ; Mary Jane, 
deceased; Daniel; and one sister,who married 
a Mr. Fisher and died in the West. Daniel, 
father of John J., was born on the farm in 
1816. He kept a hotel and ferry at Falmouth , 
now known as Collins' Store, and in 1851 
purchased the Farmers' Hotel at Highspire, 
which he conducted until his death in 1861. 
In politics he was associated with the old 
Whig party and served as school director of 
the township. He was a member of the In- 
dependent Order of Odd Fellows and of the 
Lutheran church. His wife was a member 
of the United Brethren church and died in 
1S85. They reared six children : John J.; 
Christian, farmer, died in Unionville, Centre 
county, Pa.; William, in the pipe mill, at 
Middletown ; Franklin, street railway con- 
ductor, died at Brooklyn, N. Y.; Simon O, 
confectioner, at Steelton, Pa., and Daniel 
Lawrence, restaurant keeper, Urbana, Ohio. 

John J. was reared and educated in the 
public schools of his native place. In 1S61 
he enlisted in company I, Twentieth regi- 
ment, independent volunteer infantry, in 
which he served one year. He was taken 
prisoner from the steamer Fannie in Pamlico 
bound, and was confined at Richmond, Ya., 
and Columbia, S. O, for seven months, after 
which lie was paroled and eame home. In 
1863 he enlisted in company E, Forty-third 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
again captured at Warrenton Junction, Ya.. 
ami was confined at Belle Island, Libby and 
Andersonville for nineteen months, when he 
was exchanged and honorably discharged. 
In his first enlistment he was with General 



830 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Wool in the coast survey, and in his second 
with General Meade in the Army of the Po- 
tomac, After the war he worked in the 
store and at farming for two years, after 
which he was for three years with the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company. In 1870 he 
estahlished a general store at Highspire, 
which he has since conducted. He is also 
one of the original stockholders in the High- 
spire Car Manufacturing Company. Mr. 
Lehman is connected with Middletown Post, 
G. A. R. , and also with the Order of United 
American Mechanics. In politics he is a 
Democrat, and has served as school director 
twelve years. In 1885 he was appointed post- 
master at Highspire hy President Cleveland 
and served during the administration. He 
was married, in 1865, to Miss Margaret 
Strickler, daughter of Henry Strickler, of 
Lower Swatara township. Mrs. Lehman is 
a member of the United Brethren church, 
of Highspire. 



Laverty, DeWitt C, M. D., Middle- 
town, Pa., was born in Middletown, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., May 1, 1856; son of Dr. 
Theodore C. and Lydia (Lauman) Lav- 
erty. He received his primary education 
in the public schools of Middletown, and 
read medicine under his father, after which 
he attended the Jefferson Medical College at 
Philadelphia, from which he received his 
diploma in 1877. After his graduation he 
returned to Middletown, where he opened 
an office and entered upon the general prac- 
tice of medicine. In his political views he 
is in agreement with the Republican party, 
and has served as a member of the town 
council. Dr. Laverty was married, in 1881, 
to Miss Bertha Frey, daughter of George S. 
and Annie (Smith) Frey, of York, Pa., to 
whom have been born three children : Theo- 
dore, George Lauman, and Lydia. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church, in which 
he holds the office of trustee, and has been 
the treasurer for several vears. 



Landis, Joseph H., son of Christian and 
Elizabeth (Hammaker) Landis, was born 
May 14, 1832, in Hummelstown, Dauphin 
county, Pa. He attended the ordinary 
schools of the time, and subsequently the 
Pennsylvania College, at Gettysburg, but 
did not take the full course. He worked 
some time on a farm and was clerk in a store 
two years. He became manager of the Cam- 
eron furnace at Middletown, and afterwards 



a partner of Landis & Co. in the same furnace. 
In 1878 he was elected a member of the 
House of Representatives and served one 
term of two years ; was on several important 
committees but declined a second election. 
He is at present secretary of the Lochiel Iron 
Company and superintendent of the Lochiel 
furnaces. He was married, about 1864, to 
Matilda L., daughter of the late George and 
Mary Crist, of Middletown, and their chil- 
dren are: George C, Matilda C, Joseph 
Henry, and John C. 



Lauman, Michael C, Middletown, retired, 
was born in Middletown, Pa., August 28, 1810 ; 
son of George and Christina (Conrad) Lau- 
man. George Lauman, Sr., grandfather of 
Michael, was one of the very earliest settlers 
of the county, and was a mason by trade. 
He married Esther Maria King, who died 
December 13, 1831, aged eighty-one years. 
He died June 26, 1809, aged sixty-five years. 
Their children were : Jacob, William, George, 
John, Martin, Esther, Henry, Elizabeth, and 
William. The grandparents were members 
of the Lutheran church. George Lauman, 
Jr., father of Michael, remained at Middle- 
town. He was a mason by trade and be- 
came later in life a farmer, and the owner of 
valuable farm property at Middletown and 
in the surrounding country. He married 
Christian Conrad, daughter of Michael Con- 
rad, a native of Germany. Their children 
were: three who died in childhood ; George, 
Michael C, William, Clara, Catherine, Eliza- 
beth, Maria, and Lydia. The parents were 
members of the Lutheran church, and the 
father was one of the trustees and one of the 
principal movers in building the steeple on 
the old church. In politics he was a Demo- 
crat, and filled many township offices. His 
death occurred May 23, 1848, and that of his 
wife February 21, 1863. 

Michael C. received only a limited educa- 
tion and learned the trade of blacksmith. 
In 1835 he joined the corps of civil engineers 
locating the Pennsylvania railroad, then 
called the Lancaster, Mt. Joy and Elizabeth- 
town railroad, and through Gen. Simon 
Cameron got the position of division fore- 
man from Conewago bridge to Highspire. 
This position he filled until 1856, having 
been on the road for twenty-one years, since 
which time he has not been in any active 
business. His first vote for President was 
cast in 1832 for Gen. Andrew Jackson, and 
he has since continued his connection with 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



s:;i 



the Democratic party. He has served as 
member of council and was president of 
that body, and was also enlistment officer of 
the Swatara infantry, of which organization 
he was also the treasurer. He was reared in 
the Lutherau church, but is not now an ac- 
tive member, having relinquished his mem- 
bership and became an undenominated 
Christian. 



Laverty, Dr. Theodore C, Middletown, 
Pa., was born at Mechauicsburg, Cumber- 
land county, Pa., May 12, 1831 ; son of Pat- 
rick and Anna Mary (Ditto) Laverty. The 
father was born and reared in Ireland, came 
to this country when a young man and lo- 
cated in Cumberland county, Pa., where he 
was first engaged in teaching, and subse- 
quently took up other pursuits. He served 
as collector of taxes in the United States 
internal revenue district, composed of York, 
Cumberland and Adams counties, and was 
also a justice of the peace for many years in 
Cumberland county. He died at Mechanics- 
burg. His wife was a native of York county. 

Dr. Theodore C. was reared at Mechanics- 
burg, Pa., and pursued the usual course in 
the public schools of that place, upon the 
completion of which he taught school for 
some time in his native county. During 
the years from 1847 to 1849 he read medi- 
cine under Dr. P. H. Long, of Mechanics- 
burg, and was graduated from the Jefferson 
Medical College in 1853. In the same year 
he came to Middletown and opened an of- 
fice, where he has since enjoyed a successful 
practice. In connection with his professional 
work he has also conducted a drug busi- 
ness for many years. Dr. Laverty is one of 
the early members of the County Medical 
Society. He is also a stockholder in the 
Middletown Car Works. In politics he is a 
Republican, and has served as school director 
of the borough. Dr. Laverty was married, 
in 1855, to Miss Lydia Lauman, daughter of 
George Lauman, to whom have been born 
five children: DeWitt C; Jennie; Clara, 
Mrs. Joseph Raymond, of Middletown; 
Theodore, with the Iron and Tube Company, 
of Middletown, and married Miss Fanny 
Martin, daughter of Joseph Martin, of Lon- 
donderry township, by whom he has four 
children: Beulah, Myra, Elsie, and Estella ; 
and Eugene, druggist. The family are mem- 
bers of the Lutherau church. 



Longenecker, Isaac A., merchant, Mid- 
dletown, Pa., was born at Highland, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 10, 1846 ; son of 
Christian and Mary (Kingport) Longenecker. 
The father moved from Lancaster to Dau- 
phin county about 1840, and engaged in 
farming on the present site of Highland, 
where he died in 1845. His wife died in 
1851. Their children are: John K., of 
Lancaster county; Daniel, of Kansas: Cathe- 
rine A., widow of David Barnhill, of Middle- 
town, and Isaac. 

Isaac Longenecker attended the common 
schools of his locality, receiving a limited 
education. When nineteen years of age he 
became a clerk in a general store. He learned 
the shoemaker's trade and at the age of 
twenty-one years, in 1867, established a shoe 
business in Mechanicsburg, which he con- 
tinued four years aud then removed to Mid- 
dletown, where he was in the shoe trade 
until 1875, when he went to Lykens and 
opened a confectionery store aud ice cream 
parlor, which he conducted for six years. 
He again returned to Middletown and estab- 
lished a business as grocer, baker and confec- 
tioner. In 1864 Mr. Longenecker enlisted 
in company I, Ninth regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia cavalry, as a private and served until 
the close of the war. At Rockingham, N. 
C, in March, 1865, he was taken prisoner 
and was confined in Libby prison about 
twenty-two days, after which he was paroled 
and exchanged at Annapolis, and sent home 
on thirty days' furlough, but shortly received 
orders to report at Harrisburg and be mus- 
tered out. In his political views Mr. Long- 
enecker is a Republican, and has served on 
the school board three years and is at pres- 
ent a member of the city council. He is 
a member of Simon Cameron Post, G. A. 
R.; Prince Edwin Lodge, No. 486, F. &. A. 
M.; Middletown Lodge, No. 268, K. of P.; Ivy 
Court, No. 6797, A. O. F. of A.; aud Triune 
Lodge, No. 307, I. 0. 0. F., also patriarch of 
Encampment No. 171, 1. O. 0. F. Mr. Long- 
enecker was married, in 1868, to Miss Anna 
D., daughter of Jacob Shaeffer, of Mechanics- 
burg, Pa. Their children are: Bertha; Ida; 
Charles E., in business with his father, mar- 
ried Caroline A. Etter, daughter of Henry 
Etter; Lulu May, Emma K.Bessie V., Elsie 
E., and Mary E. The family are members 
of the Church of God, of which Mr. Longe- 
necker is the treasurer. 



832 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Mumma, Christian, was born in Lower 
Swatara township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 28, 1812 ; son of John and Elizabeth 
(Frantz) Mumma. The grandfather, John 
or Jacob Mumma, was a native of Germany, 
and took up a tract of land now known as 
the Motter farm, which he divided between 
his two sons, John and Christian. John, the 
father, was born on the homestead in Lower 
Swatara township. He succeeded to one- 
half of his father's farm, on which he built 
a house in 1808, which he occupied until his 
death. He was a member of the old Men- 
nonite church, and in the latter years of his 
life was a minister in that connection. His 
children are: Christian; Fannie, Mrs. John 
Strickler, of Derry township; Elizabeth, John, 
Jacob, Samuel, and two who died in infancy. 

Christian was reared on the homestead, 
and was all his life engaged in farming. He 
was married, in 1839, to Miss Nancy Nissle} r , 
daughter of Martin Nissley, after which he 
located on his father's farm, where he re- 
mained for thirty-six years. In 1875 he 
purchased his present farm of one hundred 
and thirty-six acres, which he has since oc- 
cupied. In politics he is a Republican and 
was formerly a school director of the town- 
ship. Nine children were born to him, two 
of whom died young, four died of scarlet 
fever within one month, and three are still 
living: Martin N.; Mary, wife of Daniel 
Engle, of Lower Swatara township; Barbara, 
wife of David Metzger, of Londonderry town- 
ship. Mr. Mumma is a member of the old 
Mennonite church, in which he is also a 
deacon. His wife was born in June, 1815. 

Their son Martin N. was born January 
14, 1841, in Lower Swatara township. He 
was educated in the township schools, and 
has always been a farmer. He married first, 
in 1869, Miss Elizabeth Burger, daughter of 
Enos Burger, of Juniata county, who died in 
1871. They had two children, Enos, of 
Philadelphia, and Elizabeth, wife of Daniel 
M. Hershey, of Harrisburg. He married, 
secondly, in 1878, Miss Elizabeth Ebersole, 
daughter of John D. Ebersole, of Lancaster 
county. Their children are : Martin, Annie, 
and Mary. After bis marriage Mr. Mumma 
located in Swatara township on a farm, and 
for one year also was in Cumberland county, 
and at the present time is with his father. 
During the war of the Rebellion he furnished 
a substitute in the army. In his politics 
he is a Republican, and is now filling the 
office of school director for the second time. 



He is a director in the Middletown Market 
House. His religious faith and membership 
is with the Mennonite church. 



Mumma, Edward L., merchant, Highspire, 
Pa., was born in Lower Swatara township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., January 13, 1872; son 
of Samuel and Anna M. (Leiby) Mumma, 
natives of Dauphin county. The father was 
a farmer by occupation, and was also a dealer 
in real estate. He was prominent and active 
in the Republican party and in his connection 
with the United Brethren church. His death 
occurred in 1892, and his wife survives him. 
She is a daughter of William Leiby, and re- 
sides in Steelton. Their children are: J. Mil- 
ton, of Steelton; Samuel, deceased; Edward L.; 
Ray, deceased, and Mabel, with her mother. 
Edward L. was reared on the homestead and 
received his education at Lebanon Valley 
College, Annville, Pa., and New Bloomfield 
Academy. He was first engaged in the flour 
and feed trade, and in 1892 established a 
general store which he conducted since that 
time. He is a stockholder in the Champion 
Manufacturing Company, of Middletown. 
His fraternal association is in the member- 
ship of Baldwin Commandery, No. 108, 
K. of M., of Steelton, Pa. Mr. Mumma 
was married, in 1892, to Miss Mary Keister, 
daughter of David Keister, of Lower Swatara 
township, by whom he lias two children, 
Samuel and Donald. In his political views 
he is in accord with the Republican party, 
while in matters of faith and worship he is 
with the United Brethren church. 



Mumma, Isaac, deceased, was born on the 
homestead in Lower Swatara township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., May 2, 1824 ; son of Chris- 
tian Mumma, and grandson of John 
Mumma, who settled near Highspire, Pa., 
in 1752. Isaac was reared on the farm and 
received a fair education in the schools of 
his period. In 1847 he was elected to the 
office of commissioner of Dauphin county, 
and at the expiration of his official term was 
appointed revenue commissioner. In 1862 
he was elected associate judge of Dauphin 
county and served in the office for the term 
of five years, and in 1867 was elected to a 
second term of the same office, but before 
the expiration of this term, the new State 
constitution came into effect abolishing the 
office, and he returned to his farm. In 1885 
he was elected sheriff of Dauphin county 
and discharged the duties with credit and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



833 



satisfaction until his death, March 11, 1SS7. 
Mr. Mamma was a director in the Hummels- 
town Bank, and filled many places of pub- 
lic and private trust, with the utmost effi- 
ciency and fidelity, establishing a reputation 
for ability and integrity. In all circles, 
commercial, political and social, he was 
prominent and influential. Mr. Mumma 
was married to Mary, daughter of Christian 
Nissley, of Derry township, who with eight 
children survive him. These children are : 
Emma; Anna; Mary, wife of Edgar Hum- 
mel, of Hummelstown; Christian N., of 
Steel ton ; Alice; Blanche; Ralph, in the 
railway mail service, and Opal. 

Matheson, George, son of Adam and 
Isabella (Wright) Matheson, was born Oc- 
tober 27, 1828, at Jedburgh, Roxburyshire, 
Scotland. He enjoyed the benefit of only a 
common school education, and in June, 1845, 
left home and entered the employ, as an ap- 
prentice, of George and Robert Stephenson, 
the celebrated locomotive and engine build- 
ers, at Newcastle-on-Tyne, England. He re- 
mained with them the full term of five years, 
making himself proficient in all departments 
of the business. He afterwards worked a few 
months in England, but in October, 1850, 
embarked from Glasgow for America. On 
the second day after his arrival in New York 
he commenced work in the shops of Hoggs 
& Delamater, and subsequently labored in 
and had charge of other works, finally set- 
tling down in the employ of the Old Novelty 
Iron Works, where he remained ten years. 
He then assumed charge of the erection of 
engines in the vessels which were fitted out 
by the Fulton Ii - on Works of James Murphy 
& Co., New York, remaining in that position 
several years. The Civil war being then in 
progress he had charge of nil the outside 
work of that firm, including fitting out Gov- 
ernment vessels. In 1864 he was appointed 
superintendent of the East River Iron Works, 
Samuel Secor & Co., at that time largely en- 
gaged in building marine and stationary 
engines. It was here he first became ac- 
quainted with the manufacture of tubing, 
having built the machinery for the Bergen 
Tube Mill, of New Jersey. In 1869 he en- 
tered into an arrangement with parties, after- 
wards incorporated as the National Tube 
Works Company, to erect works for them in 
East Boston, Mass., and subsequently acted 
as superintendent of these works until 1 s7_'. 
when it was decided to erect a more exten- 



sive establishment at McKeesport, Pa. Mr. 
Matheson took entire charge of the projected 
works, and they were built under his man- 
agement. He acted as general superinten- 
dent of the establishment until 1SS0, intro- 
ducing several improvements in tubing 
manufacture, and successfully operating 
Siemens' gas regenerator furnaces, which 
had never been used in this country for that 
purpose, and not successfully in England. 
In 1880 he removed to Middletown, and with 
his sons projected and established the large 
and successful works of the American Tube 
and Iron Company, and of which his sons, 
A. Scott and James H., have the general 
management. He married, May, 1850, Isa- 
bella Hewison, a native of Newcastle, Eng- 
land, and they had eleven children, of whom 
eight survive : A.Scott; James H.; Isabella 
H., who married John Sword, of Scotland ; 
Elizabeth; Mary A. H., who married A. W. 
Momeyer; Hanuah H., William D., and 
Cornelia C. 



McDaniel, Dr. Harry M., Highspire, Pa., 
was born in York county, Pa,, August 30, 
1858 ; son of Isaiah S. and Harriet (Sunday) 
McDaniel. He was reared in his native 
county, and was educated in the public 
schools and at Lebanon Valley College, Ann- 
ville, Pa. He learned the trade of carpentry, 
and followed that occupation for eight years, 
after which he took up the study of medicine 
under Dr. J. W. Roop, then of New Cumber- 
land, now of Harrisburg. He later attended 
the lectures at the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons at Baltimore, Md., from which in- 
stitution he was graduated in 18S3, and the 
same year received a diploma also from the 
University of Pennsylvania. In the latter part 
of 1883 he located at Highspire, where he 
has since been engaged in the general prac- 
tice of his profession. He has also been phy- 
sician of the county poor house for many 
years. In his politics Dr. McDaniel is a Re- 
publican. In 1 s«. 12 lie was married to Miss 
Annie G. Backenstoe, daughter of John Back- 
enstoe, of Union Deposit, Pa., and to their 
marriage there is no issue. Mrs. McDaniel 
is a member of the United Brethren church, 
of Highspire. 



Myers, J. R., grocer, Middletown, Pa., 
was born in York county, Pa.. September 
16, 1846; son of John and Maria (Roller) 
Myers. The father moved to Cumberland 
county when he was six years of age, and in 



834 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



1870 came from there to Dauphin county, 
where he engaged in farming in Upper 
Paxton township. He is now living with 
his daughter in Ida Grove, Iowa, his wife 
having died February 2, 1892. Their sur- 
viving children are : J. R., and Kate, wife of 
Owen J. Thompson, of Steelton, the only 
ones living in this country; Mary, Mrs. J. 
M. C. Halton, of DesMoines, Iowa; Matilda, 
Mrs. William Brady, Ida Grove, Iowa; 
Lottie, Mrs. Herbert Myers, of Ida Grove, 
Iowa, and William L., of Grand Fork, N. D. 
The parents were members of the Lutheran 
church, and Mr. Myers held the office of 
trustee in St. John's church of Cumberland 
county for many years. 

J. R. Myers received his education in the 
public schools. In 1863 he enlisted in com- 
pany D, Twenty-eighth regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania cavalry, in which he served six 
months, and then re-enlisted in company D, 
Two Hundred and Second regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, and served until the 
close of the war. After his discharge he 
entered the New Berlin Academy, and re- 
mained two terms, after which he worked 
three years in the West Fairview rolling 
mill. In December, 1869, he came to Mid- 
dletown, and was for a time employed in the 
car shops, after which he clerked for B. S. 
Peters. He served for two years as brake- 
man on the Northern Central railroad, and 
in 1894 established his present business, 
which he has since continued. Mr. Myers 
is a member of the Middletown Lodge, I. 0. 
0. F., and of the Columbia Commandery, 
K. of M. In his political views he is inde- 
dendent. He was a member of the school 
board three years and the president of the 
body two years, taking an active interest in 
all educational matters. He was married, in 
1866, to Miss Susan Fake, of York county, 
Pa., and the} 7 had four children: John, of 
Middletown, married Miss Edith Maybury ; 
Frank, Minnie, and Carrie. Mr. Myers is a 
member of the Lutheran church and has 
served in the church council for twelve 
years, taking an active part in all church 
work. 



died in Middletown when a young man. 
The parents came to Dauphin county when 
they were young people and married here. 
The father was engaged in the general mer- 
cantile business and also was a lumber dealer. 
He was a Democrat in political views, but 
cherished strong independent proclivities. 
He was reared in the Methodist Episcopal 
church and his wife was a member of the 
Lutheran church. He died in 1888 and his 
wife died 1871. They had three children : 
Alvan; William, shoe dealer, at Middle- 
town ; and Ellen, unmarried, died in 1893. 

Alvan was reared at Middletown and re- 
ceived his education in the public schools. 
He learned the trade of painter and followed 
that occupation for some years. In 1873 he 
engaged in mercantile business, in which he 
continued one year and then, in 1874, took up 
the real estate business and improved several 
properties. In 1861 he enlisted in company 
D, Sixth regiment, United States cavalry, in 
which he served as a non-commissioned 
officer for three years. He was wounded at 
the skirmish at Slatersville, after the battle 
of Williamsville. His regiment was with 
the Army of the Potomac and participated 
in the operations and battles of that body of 
soldiers. Mr. McNair is a stockholder in the 
Middletown National Bank. In political 
views he is a Democrat and has served as a 
member of the borough council for three 
years. 

He married Miss Maria L. Swartz. She 
was a daughter of Rev. Solomon L. Swartz. 
By this marriage he had three children : 
Helen, Mary, and William. Mr. McNair was 
married, secondly, to Miss Ella Melborn, 
daughter of Oliver P. Melborn, an engineer, 
at the American Tube Works at Middletown 
and was killed by an accident. They had 
four children: Claude M., Ethel May, Harold 
Van, and Ruth Y. Mr. McNair attends the 
Lutheran church and his family attend the 
Methodist Episcopal church. 



McNair, Alvan, Middletown, Pa., was 
born in Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa., 
August 31, 1843; son of Henry and Susanna 
(Rewalt) McNair, natives of Lebanon county. 
The paternal grandfather was a native of 
Scotland, came to America, and died at 
Lewistown, Pa. The maternal grandfather 



Nissley, John H, flour and feed dealer, 
Middletown, Pa., was born in Derry town- 
ship, Dauphin county, November 16, 1844; 
son of Martin and Barbara (Nissley) Nissley. 
Martin Nissley, Sr., the grandfather, was a 
farmer in Lower Paxton township, and re- 
tired, moving to Middletown, where he died. 
Martin Nissley, Jr., the father, was born in 
Lower Paxton township, in 1812, was reared 
on the farm, and after his marriage settled 
on a farm in Derry township, where he 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



835 



lived until his death, in 1S82. His wife sur- 
vives him and lives in Annville, Pa. Pie 
was a inemher of the United Brethren 
church, in which he held various offices and 
was a trustee of the church for many years. 
In politics he was a Republican. He reared 
six children, two of whom died in infancy, 
and the others are : Fanny, Mrs. Franklin 
J. Wittner, of Annville, Pa. ; Mary, Mrs. S. M. 
Hummel, of Derry Church, deceased ; Jacob, 
of Derry township ; and J. H. 

John H. was reared in Derry township, 
educated in the public schools, and was en- 
gaged in farming in that township until 
1892, when he retired from active work and 
moved to Middletown, where he established 
his present business. He is also a stock- 
holder in the Middletown Novelty Company. 
Mr. Nissley was married, in 1872, to Annie, 
daughter of Rev. Solomon Swartz, of Middle- 
town, and they have three children : Edward 
S., teller of the Union National Bank, of Mt. 
Joy, Pa.; Solomon M., at home ; and Mary 
Barbara. In his political views Mr. Nissley is 
a Republican. He is a member of the United 
Brethren church, in which he was formerly 
a trustee, and aided in building the Derry 
church. 



Pkters, Benjamin Snyder, banker, Mid- 
dletown, was born in Londonderry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 19, 1834; son 
of William and Elizabeth fSnyder) Peters. 
His grandfather, Jacob Peters, was a native 
of Lebanon county, and died there. He 
married Barbara Buley, of Lebanon, Pa., 
and she died at Altoona, Pa. Their son, 
William Peters, was born in Londonderry 
now Conewago township, October 27, 1811. 
His wife was Elizabeth, daughter of Abra- 
ham Snyder, a native of Switzerland. She 
was born in Londonderry township, April 
15, 1812, and is still living. The father is 
deceased. 

Benjamin S. received a common school edu- 
cation, and at the age of sixteen years entered 
a store at Kelly's Corners, Lebanon county, to 
learn merchandising, and was afterwards at 
Meyerstown. From 1858 to 18G2 he was in 
commercial business at Palmyra, Lebanon 
county, after which he removed to Middle- 
town, where he entered into partnership with 
his uncle in the mercantile trade. Upon the 
dissolution of this firm he purchased the 
store of Yetman Eves, and for several years 
was the senior partner of the linn of Peters 
& Bros., retiring from business in January. 



1SS3. The following year he again engaged 
in business with his son, under the firm 
name of B. S. Peters & Son, which conducted 
two stores. When the Farmers'. Bank was 
organized he was made a director, and was 
chosen the president of the bank, which po- 
sition he has since held. Mr. Peters was 
married, in 1855, to Sarah, daughter of John 
and Polly (Beard) Rupp, of Lebanon county. 
Their children are: Jerome G., Emma, and 
Elizabeth, wife of Horace McKee, son of Rev. 
David McKee and they have one child, Ben- 
jamin. Mr. Peters was one of the organiz- 
ers and one of the first directors of the Car 
Works. In political matters he is not an 
active partisan, but is a member of the Re- 
publican party. His religious fellowship is 
in the Methodist Episcopal church, of which 
he is an active member, and of which he has 
been the treasurer for fifteen years. 



Rewalt, Dr. J. W., Middletown, Pa., was 
born in Middletown, and was reared in his 
native town. He attended the common 
schools until he attained the age of fourteen 
years, when he became a clerk in a general 
store. After a short period of service in this 
position he entered the drug store of Mr. 
Blensinger, with whom he remained two 
years, and while thus enployed he was pros- 
ecuting his studies in pharmacy. After a 
thorough preparation he entered the Phila- 
delphia College of Pharmacy and was gradu- 
ated in the regular course from that institu- 
tion. Subsequently he formed a partnership 
with T. C. Laverty in the drug business, in 
which he continued for two and a half years, 
when the firm was dissolved, and Dr. Rewalt 
has since conducted the business. He has 
served on the school board for twelve years. 
He is a ruling elder in the Presbyterian 
church. 



Ringland, Dr. John, Middletown, Pa., re- 
tired, was born in Middletown, Pa., January 
9, 1825; son of James and Magdaline (Bom- 
berger) Ringland. John Ringland, the grand- 
father of Dr. John, was born in County Down, 
Ireland, as was also his wife. They came to 
America in 1792, and first settled in Chester 
county, Pa., from whence they removed to 
Lancaster county. James Ringland, the 
father, was a native of Chester county, and 
came to Dauphin county in 1822 or 1823, 
settling in Middletown, where he engaged in 
the mercantile business, in which he con- 
tinued until his death in 1831. He was 



836 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



originally a Presbyterian, and later united 
with the Lutheran church, of which his wife 
was a member. In politics he was a Whig, 
and served in various township offices. His 
children are: Dr. John; Joseph, deceased, 
merchant at Middletown, and formerly a 
currier; Eliza Jane, Mrs. G. L. Yetter, of 
Middletown ; and Mary M., wife of Benjamin 
F. Kendig, of Harrisburg. After his death 
his widow married Jacob Lindermuth. She 
died in 1887. 

Dr. John Ringland attended the public 
schools until he was fifteen years of age, 
when he went to Lancaster and learned the 
printer's trade, which he followed for five 
years, after which he was in the lumber busi- 
ness for a short time. He read medicine 
under Dr. Benjamin J. Wiestling, and was 
graduated from the University of Pennsyl- 
vania in 1850. He practiced medicine for 
one year and a half, but was forced to aban- 
don professional work on account of impaired 
hearing. For four years he was engaged in 
the lumber business in Cumberland count}' 
as a member of the firm of Church, Lee & 
Ringland, after which he returned to Mid- 
dletown and embarked in the dairy busi- 
ness. In 1860 Dr. Ringland was elected re- 
corder of deeds of Dauphin county, and in 
1863 was re-elected to the same office. He 
served as a member of the school board and 
of the council of Middletown, and has also 
served as justice of the peace for about seven- 
teen years. He was originally a member of 
the Whig party, and later joined the Repub- 
licans. In 1850 he was married to Miss 
Margaret E. Smith, daughter of Henry and 
Mary Smith, of Middletown. Their children 
are: Joseph H., John Augustus, Mary Jane, 
Louisa B., and Almeth K. The family were 
members of the Presbyterian church. 



Shireman, William, farmer and stock 
raiser, Middletown, Pa., was born in Maytown, 
Lancaster county, November, 19, 1843 ; son 
of Aaron and Mary (Lentz) Shireman, both 
natives of Lancaster county. The father, 
Aaron Shireman, was born in the same house 
that Simon Cameron was born in. In 1867 
he purchased a farm on the island opposite 
Buck Lock, where he resided for many years, 
but now lives with his son William. He is 
a cabinet maker by trade, and is also an 
active member of the German Reformed 
church. His family consists of three children: 
William, and two brothers, who reside at 
New Albany, Ind. 



William received his education in the 
public schools of Maytown, which he attended 
until sixteen years of age. He then learned 
the trade of cabinet maker with his father, 
and later on rented his farm on the island, 
which he worked for sixteen years, and eight 
years of this time he attended market regu- 
larly in Harrisburg. By his untiring energy 
and economy he accumulated sufficient 
money to buy a farm of his own, and in 1882 
purchased what is known as "Hillsdale Farm," 
a most beautiful place, in Londonderry town- 
ship. Here he engaged in breeding and 
raising of thoroughbred stock, and is the 
owner of as fine stock as can be found in the 
county. He married Miss Sarah A. Long- 
necker, daughter of Jacob Longnecker, of 
Maytown, Lancaster county, in 1865. Their 
five children are: Anna, Mrs. Soloman M. 
Gingrich, Londonderry township; John W., 
of Royalton, who married Miss Ella Goss ; 
Rachaei, Mrs. John W. Metzger, of Royalton; 
Minnie, and Edward L. In politics Mr. 
Shireman is a Democrat, and was honored 
by being elected county commissioner in 
1893. He holds the office of trustee in the 
Middletown Presbyterian church, of which 
he is a consistent member. 



Rehrer, Henry L., coal dealer, Middle- 
town, Pa., was born in Lancaster county, Pa., 
June 17, 1835 ; son of Jacob and Christina 
(Lott) Rehrer. The father was a native of 
Lancaster, and the mother of Berks county. 
He moved to Dauphin county in 1837, and 
located at Union Deposit, and conducted a 
distillery for General Hocker for some years. 
Later he came to Middletown, where he was 
in the lumber business for sixteen years and 
where he died in 1856. He was a prominent 
member of the Bethel church, and was also 
active in the Democratic party. His wife 
died in 1877. The}' reared seven children, 
four of whom are living : Henry L.; Jacob, 
of Royalton ; Andrew, of Middletown ; and 
George, of Middletown. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : Mary L., Mrs. Henry Stipe ; John, 
and Nicholas. 

Henry L. came with his parents to Dau- 
phin county when he was two years old. He 
was educated in the public schools, and for 
some years was engaged in boating on the 
canal and for eight years was proprietor of 
the Pennsylvania House. Subsequently he 
was appointed collector on the Union canal, 
and held the position for fourteen years. In 
1876 he established his present coal business 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



837 



in which lie has since continued. . He is a 
member of the Masonic fraternity, Knights 
of the Golden Eagle and of the Order of 
United American Mechanics. In politics he 
is a Democrat and has served six years in 
the borough council. Mr. Rehrer was mar- 
ried, in 1855, to Miss Mary, daughter of James 
Stephenson, of Easton, who died in 1889, 
leaving no issue. He was married, secondly, 
in 1893, to Miss Anna E., daughter of George 
Stack house, of Fort Deposit, Md. They are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal church, 
of Middletown. 



Swartz, Rev. Solomon L., Middletown, Pa., 
was born in Lower Swatara township, Sep- 
tember 18, 1827. The first of the family in 
Dauphin county was Christian Swartz, a na- 
tive of Germany who came to America and 
settled first in Lancaster county, Pa. He 
removed from thence to Dauphin county and 
located in what is now Lower Swatara town- 
ship, where he spent the remainder of his life. 
He was a farmer by occupation, and made 
many improvements on his place, among 
which is a store house erected by him in 
1799, which is still standing. He reared two 
children, Jacob and Christian, who succeeded 
to his estate and lived with him until his 
death. Jacob B. married Miss Nancy Nissley, 
daughter of Martin Nissley, who died in 1844. 
They reared three children, Rev. Solomon S. 
being the only survivor. He attended the 
public schools and subscription schools, and 
engaged in farming for several years. He 
made a profession of religion early in life and 
connected himself with the United Brethren 
church, taking always an active part in 
church work. In 1871 he made application 
to conference to be admitted to the ministry, 
and in 1879 was received and ordained to the 
sacred office. In 1891 he settled at Middle- 
town as a minister without charge and has 
been a resident of the place since that date. 
Mr. Swartz was married, in 1849, to Mary 
Nissley, a daughter of Peter Nissley, of Lan- 
caster county, by whom he has one child, 
Anna, wife of John H. Nissley, of Middle- 
town, Pa. Pie was married, secondly, to Miss 
Anna Wagner. 



Swartz, Martin Nissley, deceased, was 
born in Lower Swatara township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., September 30, L829; son of 
Christian and Nancy (Nissley) Swartz. His 
parents died and he was reared by his grand- 
parents and attended the schools of his na- 



tive township. He grew up on the farm and 
chose farming as his occupation. After his 
marriage he located on the farm, which he 
occupied until his death, in September, 1878. 
He was a stockholder in the Bomberger Bank, 
of Harrisburg. Mr. Swartz was married, in 
1858, to Miss Harriet, daughter of John and 
Catherine Wallower, of Dauphin county. 
Of their nine children five are living. The 
first is Christian Landis, born April 3, 1864, 
was educated in the common schools and in 
the Lebanon Valley College at Annville; 
worked for some time for the American Tube 
and Iron Company, and was also a clerk at 
Harrisburg ; married, April 17, 1884, to 
Ann, daughter of Abraham C. Brinser, of 
Londonderry township, and their children 
are : Christian Ira, Ida May, Martin Oliver, 
and Milford Ross. The second is Oliver 
Martin, born March 20, 1866, at Middletown ; 
married in 1892 to Sarah Rose, of Harris- 
burg, and their children are: Oliver Henry, 
William Krebs, and Sarah Harriet. The 
third is Joshua William, born January 9, 
1867, attorney-at-law, Harrisburg; received 
his education at Annville, and was gradu- 
ated at Dickinson College, Carlisle. He 
married Miss Adella Gohen, daughter of 
John Gohen, of Indiana county, and the)' 
have one child, Joshua G. The fourth is 
Isaac Benjamin, born November 8, 1868, at- 
torney-at-law, Harrisburg; received his edu- 
cation at Annville, Shippensburg and Dick- 
inson Law School, Carlisle, Pa., and was one 
term at Millersville Normal School. The 
fifth is Elijah Gabriel, born September 13, 
1872, cigar manufacturer at Lebanon, Pa. 
Emma Catherine, born July 12, 1870, died 
in 1878, and three other children died in in- 
fancy. Mr. Swartz was a member of the 
United Brethren church. 



Shope, Henry N., farmer, Highspire, Pa., 
was born in LowerSwatara township, Dauphin 
county. Pa.. September S, 1852; son of Na- 
thaniel and Martha (Gaynson) Shope. The 
grandfather located in Lower Swatara town- 
ship, and married Miss Martha Ban nan. They 
were members of the old Mennonite church, 
and reared four children. The father was 
born in Paxton township in 1812, and was 
reared in the township. After marriage he 
located in Lower Swatara township, where 
he remained until his death, in 1877. In 
his religious faith he was a Mennonite, and 
was a bishop in that church. His wife died 
in 1892. They reared nine children : Mary, 



838 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



widow of Samuel Kohr, of Oberlin, Pa.; 
Martha, wife of Adam Hocker, of Mt. Wolf, 
York county; Edward, of White Hill, Cum- 
berland count}'; Eliza, wife of Samuel Zim- 
merman, of Lower Swatara township; Henry 
N.; Hettie, wife of David Martin, of Bain- 
bridge, Lancaster county ; Susan, wife of 
Jonas Zimmerman, of Oberlin ; Sarah, wife 
of David Kohr, of Lower Swatara township ; 
and Adam, of Hummelstown. Henry N. was 
reared and educated in the township, and fol- 
lowed the occupation of farming, He was 
married, January 1, 1874, to Miss Sarah Mey- 
ers, daughter of Henry Meyers, of London- 
derry township. Their children are: Martha, 
wife of Elmer Handshew ; Harry M., Annie 
M., Bertha S., Eli C, William B., and Myrtle 
M. Mr. Shope is a Republican in politics. 
In religious faith he is a Meunonite, and is 
a minister in that connection. 



Lower Swatara township; Leah A., Emma 
J., Minnie M., and Annie Viola. Mr. Stout 
is a member of the Baptist church. 



Stout, David, Oberlin, Pa., was born in 
South Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., August 10,1848; son of John and Leah 
(Metzger) Stout, natives of Dauphin county. 
Adam Stout, grandfather of David, was the 
first of the family to settle in the county, 
coming from up the river, and locating in 
Lower Paxton township, where he followed 
his occupation of weaving in connection 
with farming. John, father of David, was 
born in Lower Paxton township, February 
2, 1814, and was engaged in farming, first in 
Paxton and later in South Hanover town- 
ship, where he died in 1890. His wife sur- 
vives him and is a resident of South Han- 
over township. Of their children six died 
young and the others are: Catherine, Mrs. 
John Allwine, of South Hanover township ; 
David, and Daniel M., of Derry township. 
The father was a member of the German 
Baptist church, and a Republican in his 
politics. David was reared in South Han- 
over township and attended the public 
schools. He was married, October 26, 1871, 
to Miss Louisa Albert, daughter of John and 
Sarah (Taylor) Albert, of East Hanover 
township. He located on the old homestead, 
where he remained eight years, and then, in 
1891, purchased the Martin Swartz farm, on 
which he has since resided. In political 
matters Mr. Stout is with the Republican 
party, and has served as school director in 
South Hanover township. His children are: 
Sally Ann, wife of David E. Schaffner, of 



Stoner, Milton J., agent of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company, was born at High- 
spire, Pa., August 12, 1846 ; son of Henry 
and Mary (Miller) Stoner. John Stoner, the 
grandfather, was an early settler of the 
county and a carpenter by trade. The father 
was born in Lower Swatara township in 1813 
and was a school teacher at Highspire. He 
learned the trade of carpentry and followed 
that occupation for many years. In 1848 he 
opened a general store in Highspire, which 
he conducted until his death in 1876. In 
politics he was a Republican and served as 
postmaster at Highspire for a number of 
years. He was a member of the United 
Brethren church. His wife is a native of 
Lewisburg, Pa., and is now a resident of 
Steelton. They have three children: Milton 
J.; Ellwyn M., of Steelton, agent of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company ; and 
Ulysses S., died in 1889, aged twenty-one 
years. Milton J. was reared and educated at 
Highspire. He learned telegraphy and in 
1863 entered the service of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company as operator between Har- 
risburg and Altoona, and was stationed at 
the latter place for six years. In 1872 he 
came to Highspire and opened the office for 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, of 
which he has since had charge, and is also 
freight and express agent. Mr. Stoner is a 
member of Baldwin Commandery, No. 108, 
K. of M., and is also one of the trustees of 
the lodge. In politics he is an active Repub- 
lican. General Grant appointed him post- 
master of Highspire, and he served continu- 
ously in that office until Cleveland was 
elected President. He was married, in 1872, 
to Miss Cora L. Herrick, daughter of John 
Herrick, of Steelton. They have one child, 
Otho N., born in 1874, assistant to his father. 
• Mrs. Stoner is a member of the United 
Brethren church, of Highspire. 



Schultz, Leonard, deceased, was born at 
Wurtemburg, Germany, March 5, 1827 or 
1828. He came to this country when a young 
man, and located in Middletown in 1850, 
where he established a brewery, which he 
conducted up to the time of his death, in 
1872. He was married at Philadelphia to 
Anna Catherine Smith, who was also a na- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



839 



tive of Wurtemburg. She was a member of 
the Lutheran church. Their children are: 
(1) John, of Middletown, born January 30, 
1852, received his education in the pub- 
lic schools and learned the trade of baker. 
He was married, in 1875, to Susan Capp, of 
Middletown, and to this marriage there is 
no issue. He is independent in his politi- 
cal views. (2) William, born in 1853, a 
shoemaker by trade, and resides at Middle- 
town. He married Susan Brenser, of York 
county, Pa., and they have two children : 
Leonard and Gertrude. (3) Catherine, wife 
of Harry Steele, of Middletown, Pa. (4) 
Frederick, Middletown, born May 3, 1858, 
educated in the public schools and engaged 
in butchering, and established his present 
business in 1885. He was married, in 1880, 
to Miss Emma Wilson, daughter of Jacob 
Wilson, of Middletown. They have no 
children. In politics he is a Democrat and 
is a member of the Lutheran church. 



Stecher, Rev. Henry G., son of George 
Stecher, was born July 16, 1792, near Easton, 
Northampton county, Pa. He received 
an academic and collegiate education, and 
began the study of theology at Easton. 
He was ordained pastor of the Lutheran 
church at Logansville, York county, Pa., 
in 1819, and served that congregation 
faithfully until 1830, when he accepted a 
call to the church at Hummelstown. His 
charge included other congregations, and he 
was as energetic in the devotion to the wants 
of his widely scattered flocks as he was 
earnest in his expounding of religious 
truths. He was well educated, a profound 
theologian, and of an exceeding amiableness 
of character. In 1854 he resigned his charge 
owing to advancing years and physical ina- 
bility. From that point until the close of 
his life he resided at Hummelstown, sur- 
rounded by all the charms of the domestic 
circle of a good man. He died April 20, 
1S70. Rev. Mr. Stecher married Julianna, 
daughter of George Fouse, who survives in 
her eighty-sixth year. Their children are 
as follows: Mary Ann. deceased ; Adeline, 
who married Henry L. Hummel ; Julianna, 
deceased; Amanda, who married John 
Fisher, of Middletown; Albert, who married 
Rebecca Groom, of York county ; Theodore 
A., who was educated at Pennsylvania Col- 
lege, Gettysburg, with the intention of enter- 
ing the ministry ; about 1800 he went into 
the service of the Pennsylvania Railroad • 



Company at Altoona, under Engineer Her- 
man Haupt, subsequently transferred to gen- 
eral ticket agent at Philadelphia, which po- 
sition he filled creditably until his death in 
1880, which took place at Ardmore, near 
Philadelphia; George, who married Bell 
Haines, of Philadelphia; Sarah, Caroline, 
and Frank B. 



Smuller, George, son of John and Su- 
sannah (Shirtz) Smuller, was born October 
7, 1805, at Jonestown, Lebanon county, Pa. 
He acquired a fair English education in the 
schools of the day, and in early life followed the 
occupation of a tailor. He subsequently be- 
came extensively engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness with theUnion Canal Company and aeon- 
tractor in the public works of the State. He 
was afterwards appointed collector of tolls in 
the Union canal, at Middletown, a position he 
filled many years, resigning in 1S57, when 
he was elected president of the Middletown 
Bank. As first officer of that institution 
Mr. Smuller won for himself the highest 
confidence of the community, which he re- 
tained down to the close of his busy, active 
life. He died at Middletown, August 19, 
1882, aged almost seventy-seven years. Few 
men stood higher in any community than 
he. His life was characterized by great 
goodness of heart and true nobleness of soul, 
which won for him the love and esteem of 
his fellow-men and neighbors. Mr. Smuller 
married Caroline, daughter of Dr. Karl and 
Mary Fisher, of Middletown, born in 1S05, and 
died January 5, 1870. Their children were: 
Lehman ; Mary ; Elizabeth, who married 
George F.Mish,M.D.; Annie G., who married 
Henry J. Meily ; Ellen, who married David 
G. Swartz, of Chicago ; and Caroline. 



Saul, Henry R., proprietor of the Middle- 
town Carriage Factory, was born in Berks 
county, Pa., March 18, 1S43 ; son of Jonathan 
and Magdaline (Rouch) Saul, both old fami- 
lies of that county, whose ancestors were na- 
tives of Germany, and the very oldest settlers 
of Berks county. The father was a farmer. 
He died February 2, 1880, aged seventy-eight 
years, and the mother died in Berks county 
in 1802. Their children are: Lena. Eliza- 
beth. David, Mary. Henry R, and Charles. 

Henry R. came to Dauphin county at the 
age of fifteen years. He received his educa- 
tion in the public schools and learned the 
trade of coach making it Hummelstown. Sub- 
sequently he took a course in the Commer- 



840 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



cial College at Lock Haven. In 1868 he es- 
tablished a business at Lock Haven, Pa., and 
continued there five years, when he went to 
Wisconsin and for seven years was in the 
lumber business. In 1887 he came to Mid- 
dletown, where he opened a shop for the mak- 
ing of carriages and doing general repairing 
work. 

In political views Mr. Saul is a Republi- 
can, and formerly was a member of the I. 0. 
0. F. He was married, June, 1881, to Miss 
Florence, daughter of John S. Watson. Mr. 
Watson married Sabilla Beyerle, of Reading, 
Pa., in 1832, and about 1835 settled at Mid- 
dletown, where he had a saw mill, built boats 
for the canal and carried on a trade in lum- 
ber. He was a prominent man of his day, 
and was one of the first stockholders and a 
director in the Middletown Bank. His death 
occurred January 8, 1878, and that of his 
wife in February, 1889. He was a Whig in 
politics. His wife was a member of the Bethel 
church, of which he was a liberal supporter. 
Their children are : Mary Ann, Mrs. William 
M. Daugherty, of Sunbury, Pa., and Florence, 
Mrs. Henry R. Saul. Mr. and Mrs. Saul have 
no children. They are members of the Pres- 
byterian church, of which he is a trustee. 



Shepler, Jacob H, merchant, Middle- 
town, Pa., was born, in Lancaster county, 
Pa., February 18, 1840 ; son of Samuel and 
Regina (Albert) Shepler, natives of that 
county. The father came to Dauphin county 
with his family in 1850, and engaged in 
farming in Middle Paxton township, where 
he continued until his death. His children 
are: John, of Middle Paxton township; 
Sarah, Mrs. Eli Salzer, of Middle Paxton 
township; Jacob H; Mary, Mrs. Amos 
Parker, of Hanover township ; Elizabeth, 
Mrs. Thomas Hinkle, of Chicago, 111.; Will- 
iam, and Isaac, both of Middle Paxton town- 
ship. 

Jacob H was educated in the public 
schools, and learned the trade of plasterer 
and also of wood worker. In 1861 he en- 
listed in the United States army and served 
until 1865, having re-enlisted as a veteran in 
1863 in the same company, and having been 
commissioned as captain of his company. 
At the battle of Chancellorsville he was 
taken prisoner and was confined in Libby 
prison for four months. After serving two 
years with the Army of the Potomac he was 
transferred to the Western army under Gen- 
eral Sherman, participatingiin the triumph- 



ant battles and marches of that great army 
and going with it to the sea. After his dis- 
charge from the military service he was em- 
ployed at different times by the Harrisburg 
Car Company, the Middletown Car Works, the 
Furniture Company and other companies. 
In 1893 he engaged in mercantile business 
at Middletown, in which he has continued 
until the present time. Mr. Shepler is a 
member of the Order of United American 
Mechanics and of Simon Cameron Post, 
G. A. R. In politics he is a Republican. 
He was married, in 1868, to Miss Elizabeth 
Hughes, daughter of Jacob Hughes, of Han- 
over township, and to this marriage there is 
no issue. He is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church and holds the offices of 
steward and class leader in the same. 



Sweigard, Daniel, dealer in coal, Middle- 
town, Pa., was born in Jackson township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., April 20, 1842 ; son of 
Jonas and Elizabeth (Miller) Sweigard. The 
first of the family to settle in Dauphin 
county was Peter Sweigard, a native of Ger- 
many, who came to America and took up a 
tract of Government land in Jackson town- 
ship, on which he settled and remained. His 
son Adam, the grandfather of Daniel, was 
born in Jackson township, where he also 
took up land and cleared up a farm, and was 
also engaged in hauling to Harrisburg and 
Lancaster county. The family were mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church. He married 
Miss Warfel, of one of the early families of 
the township, and they reared eleven chil- 
dren, of whom four are living : Philip, of 
Lower Swatara township, retired ; Rachel, 
wife of George Shoop, of Wayne township; 
Mary, wife of John Miller, of Jackson town- 
ship ; and Catherine, wife of John Enders, of 
Jackson township. Jonas Sweigard, father 
of Daniel, was born in Jackson township, 
January 30, 1813. He followed farming in 
Jackson and Jefferson townships. Politi- 
cally he was a Democrat and filled various 
township offices. His death occurred Oc- 
tober 3, 1880, and that of his wife December 
19, 1893. They were prominent members of 
the Lutheran church. Their children are : 
James, of Jackson township; Daniel and 
Samuel, of Ellsworth county, Kan. 

Daniel was reared in his native township 
and learned the trade of stonemason, which 
he followed for twenty years. In 1864 he 
enlisted in company A, Two Hundred and 
Eighth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



841 



and served until the close of the war. In 
18(37 he came to Middletown and cultivated 
the Prey farm one year, after which he 
worked at his trade until 1876, when he es- 
tahlished his present business. In politics 
he is a Democrat. He was married, in 1870, 
to Catherine, daughter of Frederick Klein- 
dopf, of Londonderry township, and they 
have one child, Annie, at home. He is a 
member of the St. Peter's Lutheran church 
and is a trustee of the organization. 



Selser, Samuel S., Middletown, Pa., was 
born in Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa., 
May 29, 1850; son of Samuel and Christina 
(Ehrsman) Selser. He attended the public 
schools until he was eighteen years of age, 
and learned the tinner's trade, which occu- 
pation he has since followed. In 1876 he 
established a business for himself, and in 
1879 built the store which he has since oc- 
cupied. He is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity and of the Junior Order United 
American Mechanics. In politics he is a 
Republican. Mr. Selser was married, De- 
cember 31, 1879, to Miss Barbara, daughter 
of Jacob Kleindopf, of Middletown, by whom 
he has two children : Catherine B. and Lucy 
E. He is a member of the St. Peter's Lu- 
theran church. 



Selser, Samuel, retired, Middletown, was 
born at Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 5, 1815; son of George and Catherine 
(Musser) Selser. The father was born in 
York county and the mother in Lancaster 
county. John George Selser, the grand- 
father, was a native of Germany, came to 
America, settled in York county, and had 
three sons and one daughter: George, Nicho- 
las, Michael, and Christina. George Selser, 
the father, came to Middletown before his 
marriage, about 1812, and purchased a lot 
from the Foot family. He was originally a 
distiller, but after coming to Middletown en- 
gaged in the manufacture of nails, and fol- 
lowed that business many years, and later in 
life was engaged in milling, carpentry and 
other employments. He was a member of 
the Lutheran church, and was one of the 
workmen employed in building the steeple 
on the church. He died in 1852 and his 
wife died in 1876. Their children are: 
Catherine, married Adam Foot, and died at 
Grand Rapids, Mich.; Samuel, and Mary, 
Mrs. Eli May, of Middletown. 



Samuel was educated in the schools of 
that period and learned the trade of cabinet 
making, at which he worked for several 
years, after which he had a saw mill and 
was in the lumber business for thirty-five 
years, in connection with which he did car- 
penter work. In politics he was a Whig, 
and later a Republican, and served as mem- 
ber of the council and as tax collector. Mr. 
Selser was married, in 1835, to Sarah Smith, 
who lived only a short time, and after her 
death he married Miss Christina, daughter 
of Jacob Ehersman. She died in 1893. 
They had eleven children : Anna, Salome, 
Sarah, Catherine, Christina, Mary, Lucinda, 
George W., Samuel S., John, and Jacob. Mr. 
Selser attends the Lutheran church. 



Ulrich, Adam, retired, Middletown, was 
born in Lower Swatara township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 11, 1818; son of 
Michael and Kate (Stoner) Ulrich. The 
father came from Lebanon county and pur- 
chased the farm in Lower Swatara township 
about 1812. He was a weaver and saddler 
by trade, and worked at these occupations to 
some extent in connection with farming, 
until he retired from active business and 
moved to Middletown, where he died in 
1845, and is buried in the Middletown cem- 
etery. By his first wife, who died about 
1835, he had nine children; two died in in- 
fancy : Mary, deceased, married Christian 
Eshenour ; Elizabeth,deceased, married Jacob 
Eshenour; Samuel, deceased, farmer in Lower 
Swatara township ; Catherine, Mrs. Philip 
Albert ; Michael, deceased, farmer in Lower 
Swatara township; John, who conducted a 
sash factory, at Middletown, and Adam, the 
only survivor of the family. Mr. Ulrich 
married for his second wife, Mrs. Mary 
Deckard, who died in 1S75. They were 
members of the Lutheran church, and later 
joined the United Brethren church. In pol- 
itics Mr. Ulrich was a Whig. 

Adam was reared on the homestead, and 
was engaged in farming until 1883, when 
he retired from active work. He was mar- 
ried, in 1839, to Mary, daughter of Henry 
Deckard, of Swatara township, and settled 
on his father's homestead, where his wife 
died in 18S3. They had four children : 
William, cashier of the Hummelstown Bank ; 
Mary, wife of John W. Rife, of Middletown ; 
Catherine, wife of Benjamin Martin, of 
Kingston ; John, on the old homestead. In 



842 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



politics Mr. Ulrich is a Republican and has 
served in various township offices. He is a 
member of the Guyer's United Brethren 
church. 



married Carrie Keller, and now resides in 
Wrightsville ; Katie, John, Charles, and 
Mary. Mr. Witman is a Republican in 
politics. 



Ulrich, John L., farmer, Middletown P. 
0., was born in Lower Swatara township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., January 2, 1861. He 
received his education in the township 
schools, and learned the milling business. 
In 1881 he rented the Nissley mill, which 
he conducted for three years, after which he 
removed to his father's homestead, which he 
has since occupied. Mr. Ulrich was married, 
in 1881, to Miss Barbara, daughter of Jacob 
C. Nissley, of Londonderry township, and 
they have two children : Katie V. and Mary 
B. In his political views Mr. Ulrich is a 
Republican, and has served as township 
auditor. His church membership is with 
the United Brethren at Hummelstown. 



Witman, John A., shoemaker, Middle- 
town, Pa., was born on the old homestead in 
Londonderry township, April 22,1834; son 
of John and Mary (Kouchman) Witman. 
The first of the family to settle in this county 
was John, the grandfather of John A., who 
moved from Lancaster county in 1795 and 
settled in Londonderry township, where he 
lived up to the time of his death. His chil- 
dren were: Anthony, John, Jacob, Paul, 
Joseph, Elizabeth, and Mary, all of whom 
are deceased. 

The father was born in Londonderry town- 
ship, April 21, 1799. He was a weaver by 
trade, but engaged in brick making and in 
butchering for a number of years. He died 
March 26, 1880, and his wife August 12, 
1847, at the age of forty-three. He was mar- 
ried to Miss Mary Kouchman, by whom he 
had twelve children : Lydia, Catherine, 
Henry, Mary Ann, Elizabeth, John A., Sarah 
Margaret, Paul, William, Phiannas, Joseph, 
and Emma M. He afterwards married Mrs. 
Anna Eversole, by whom he ' had two chil- 
dren, Louisa and Martin. John A. was first 
engaged in shoemaking. From 1870 to 1880 
was in mercantile business in Wrightsville. 
During 1883 and 1884 was working for 
the E. C. M. railroad. From 1865 to 1869 
was superintendent for James Young, Mid- 
dletown, and kept hotel in Wrightsville, 
York county, for five years, and for a time 
in Middletown. He married Miss Leah 
Ginder, of York, York county, December 27, 
1S60. Their children are : Maggie; Morris, 



Whitmer, Abraham U., farmer, Oberlin, 
Pa., was born in Franklin county, Pa., Jan- 
uary 22, 1848; son of Abraham and Catherine 
(Urich)Whitmer,natives of Lancaster county. 
The father removed to Dauphin county in 
1856, and located in Lower Swatara township, 
where he lived until 1888, when he removed 
to Oberlin, and died in February, 1890. In 
politics he was a Republican, and was in 
connection with the River Brethren church. 
His wife died in 1892. Their children are: 
Fannie, widow of Samuel Brehm, of Steelton ; 
David, of Londonderry township; Abraham 
U, and Elizabeth, wife of Heney Wolgemuth, 
of Lancaster county. Abraham U. came 
with his parents to Dauphin county when 
he was eight years of age, and received his 
education in the public schools. After the 
death of his father he succeeded to the 
homestead. In 1876 he was married to 
Mary E. Metz, daughter of George Metz, of 
Swatara township, by whom he had three 
children : Sally A., Mary Jane, and Harry 
W. In his political views Mr. Whitmer is a 
Republican, and has served in the office of 
inspector of elections, and auditor of the 
township. 



Wagner, John R., was born on the old 
homestead in Londonderry township, June 
10, 1833 ; son of John Wagner. The first 
of the Wagner family to come to Dauphin 
county was Frederick Wagner, grandfather 
of John R., who settled on the tract of land 
now owned by the All wine estate. Frederick, 
born December 14, 1758, was a carpenter 
and one of the early settlers at Lancaster, 
Pa., when there were only a few houses 
where the city now stands. Frederick was 
drafted for service in the war of 1812, and 
marched from Londonderry township to 
Baltimore. He acquired a good educatiou 
for that period, was a Republican in politics, 
and an active member of the Lutheran 
church. He was a shoemaker, but like most 
other mechanics was also at times engaged 
in farming. He married Miss Anne Wright- 
myer, by whom he had these children : 
Elizabeth, Anna, Margaret, Mary, and John, 
all of whom are deceased. Frederick Wag- 
ner died on the homestead in 1846, aged 
eighty-seven years. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



843 



John Wagner, the father of John R., was born 
in 1799, on the old homestead, where he spent 
his entire life, and died in 1874. He was the 
youngest child of his father's family, acquired 
a good education, and engaged in farming. 
He was a Republican in politics and held the 
office of supervisor of the township for a num- 
ber of years. In his religious views and fel- 
lowship be was a Lutheran and was an active 
member of that church. He married Miss 
Catherine Rodfong, daughter of Michael Rod- 
fong, of Dauphin county. Their children are : 
Caroline, who died in 1803, aged fourteen years; 
Frederick, married Leah Peters, daughter of 
David Peters, of Dauphin county; John; 
Annie, married S. C. Swartz, son of Christian 
Swartz, of Dauphin county; Mary, married 
Davis Eshenower, of Lower Swatara town- 
ship; Eliza, married Jacob M. Gingerich, of 
Londonderry township ; Sarah, married 
David Roop, of Middletown, Pa.; Catherine, 
unmarried, and lives with her sister, Mrs. S. 
C. Swartz. 

John R. was reared on the old homestead 
and lived there until 1864. He acquired his 
education in the public schools and was en- 
gaged in farming until he was over thirty 
years of age, after which he was for two years 
in the employment of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company. In 1864 he was appointed 
by the county commissioners, Henry Hart- 
man, J. J. Milleisen, and Robert McClure, 
collector of State, county, and local taxes, in 
which office he served one year, and was 
precinct assessor for fifteen years. In his 
political views he was a Republican. Mr. 
Wagner was married, March 28, 1865, to 
Miss Katie Garrett, daughter of John Garrett, 
of Lebanon, Pa. In 1871 they moved to the 
premises where they now have their home. 

Wagner, Frederick R., coal dealer, 
Middletown, Pa., was born in Londonderry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., October 20, 
1830; son of John and Catherine (Rodfong) 
Wagner. He was reared and educated in 
the township, and remained with his father 
and worked on the home farm until he was 
thirty years of age. In 1860 he was married 
to Miss Leah Peters, daughter of David Peters, 
of Londonderry township. After his marriage 
he located on a farm in the same township, 
and was engaged in agricultural pursuits 
until 1SH5, after which lie was for one year 
in Swatara township. In 1866 he returned 
to the old homestead in Londonderry town- 
ship, which he leased until 1881, when he 



removed to Middletown, where he was em- 
ployed in the tube mill for seven years. In 
1894 he established a coal business, to which 
he has devoted his entire attention for 
several years. His children are: Abraham 
L., clerk for Gray at Middletown; John, 
butcher, at Middletown ; William, with his 
father; Charles, physician at Hanover, York 
county ; Simon, butcher, at Middletown ; 
Elizabeth, wife of John Klinger, of Middle- 
town ; Emma, and Annie. In politics Mr. 
Wagner is a Republican and was formerly 
active in party matters. He has served in 
the office of assessor of Londonderry town- 
ship, and school director of the same town- 
ship. He attends the United Brethren 
church. 



Yetter, Samuel L., insurance, Middle- 
town, was born in Lancaster county, Pa., 
March 4, 1838 ; son of Samuel and Elfzabeth 
(Lindemuth) Yetter. The father was a sol- 
dier in the war of 1812, and participated in 
the battle of Baltimore. He held the com- 
mission of captain of his company. By oc- 
cupation he was a mason, and kept a hotel 
in Lancaster for many years. Samuel L. 
was reared in Lancaster count}', receiving 
his education in the public schools and at 
the Millers ville State Normal School, and 
was engaged in teaching in Lancaster, Dau- 
phin, Snyder, and Lebanon counties. In 
1872 he came to Middletown, and was 
teacher in the Emaus Orphans' School for six 
months, which position he was compelled to 
resign on account of failing health, and took 
up the insurance business. In 1885 he was 
appointed under President Cleveland dep- 
uty collector of internal revenue for the 
Ninth district, State of Pennsylvania, in 
which office he served four years and five or 
six months. Mr. Yetter is a member of 
Prince Edwin Lodge, F. & A. M.; Independ- 
ent Order of Odd Fellows, American Me- 
chanics, and of the Ancient Order of Fores- 
ters. In political views he is a Democrat, 
and was elected in 1881, 1882, 1891, and 
1892 to the office of burgess of Middletown, 
and refused another election. He was also 
elected to the school board, and was its sec- 
retary, which office he resigned to become 
teacher of the German school. Mr. Yetter 
was married, in 1872, to Miss E. J. Ringland, 
daughter of Joseph Ringland, of Middle- 
town, Pa., having been previously married 
to Mary M. Ivlugh, teacher, daughter of 
Frank Klugh, by whom he bad one child, 



844 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCTCL OPEDIA 



Eugene H., in the mail service at Philadel- 
phia. Mr. Yetter is a member of St. Peter's 
Lutheran church, and was trustee of the 
organization for many years. 



Beard, Charles F., merchant, Middle- 
town, was born at Royalton, Londonderry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., November 
23, 1865; son of Amnion W. and Mary 
(Knerr) Beard. He received his education 
in the public school of his neighborhood and 
entered the employment of the American 
Tube and Iron Company, where he remained 
for nearly nine years. In April, 1893, he 
embarked in the grocery business, at Mid- 
dletown, which he has since conducted. 
His political views and associations are with 
the Republican party, to the principles and 
men of which he gives the support of his 
suffrage. In fraternity circles he is promi- 
nent in the membership of the Knights of 
Malta, the Red Men and the Junior Order 
American Mechanics. Mr. Beard was mar- 
ried, in 1889, to Miss Mary Peters, daughter 
of Joseph A. Peters, of Middletown, to whom 
have been born two children : Florence M. 
and Harry C. 



MIDDLE PAXTON TOWNSHIP. 



Umberger, John Roberts, M. D., Dau- 
phin, Pa., born at Linglestown, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 9, 1829. The Um- 
berger family forms a part of that German 
element, full of sturdy vitality alike in 
physique and in intellect, which goes so far 
to make up the bone and sinew of the State 
of Pennsylvania. The family records on 
this side of the Atlantic embraces six gen- 
erations, and run back to that Heinrich 
Umberger, who, with his wife and two boys 
Michael and John, crossed the ocean in a 
vessel significantly named the Hope. Land- 
ing at Philadelphia, August 28, 1733, they 
soon made their way to that part of Lan- 
caster count}' now included in Lebanon 
county, where they took up a square mile 
of land, near the present site of the city of 
Lebanon. From that time the family his- 
tory is frequently interwoven with that of 
the country, and presents in each genera- 
tion some notable point. The sons of 
Michael Umberger, Heinrich's elder son, 
were four in number: John, Henry, Adam, 
and Philip. John and Henry were both 
captains in the Continental Army under 



"Mad Anthony " Wayne. In the battle of 
Long Island John must have been either 
killed or captured by the British, for from 
that day he was nevermore seen or heard 
of by his family. Henry, on the contrary, 
served throughout the Revolution, and lived 
afterward to the remarkable age of one hun- 
dred and three. He left a large family of 
sons and daughters. The third son, Adam, 
had four children : John, David, Susanna 
H., and Elizabeth. This generation, the 
fourth, is noticeable for a double alliance 
with the Weinrich family ; the elder son, 
John, marrying Elizabeth Weinrich, and the 
elder daughter, Susanna H, becoming the 
wife of Miss Weinrich's brother, Peter 
Weinrich, afterwards sheriff of Dauphin 
county. The younger sister married Peter 
Heckert, of Linglestown, and died near that 
place at the age of ninety-two. John Um- 
berger was an extensive cattle dealer, operat- 
ing principally in Chester and Delaware 
counties. His sons were David, John, Jr., 
William, and Benjamin ; his daughters, Eliz- 
abeth and Mar}'. As his uncles had aided 
in the Revolutionary war, so John Umber- 
ger served his country in the war of 1812. 
He was in command of a regiment of militia, 
whose colonel he continued to be until his 
death, in 1813, at Paoli, Chester county. 

During part of Colonel Umberger's early 
married life he resided in Lower Paxton 
township, at a house known as the "Running 
Pump Hotel." His eldest son, David Um- 
berger, was born in that township, December 
26, 1796. His first business engagements 
were mercantile, and at Harrisburg, Pa., 
where he began, a little later, the stud}' of 
medicine. His preceptor was Dr. Martin 
Luther. Dr. David Umberger was a gradu- 
ate of the medical department, University of 
Pennsylvania, class of 1823. From this date 
until 1827 he practiced at Elizabethtown, 
Lancaster county; 1827 to 1837 in Dauphin 
county ; 1837 to 1845 at Jonestown, Lebanon 
county. In 1845 he returned to his native 
county and practiced at Linglestown, in full 
enjoyment of the confidence and regard of 
his many patients, until the arduous duties 
of the profession became too severe for his de- 
clining strength. The characteristic public 
spirit of the family was manifested by Dr. 
David Umberger in his earnest and effective 
advocacy of the public school system during 
his residence in Jonestown. It is well known 
that the system met with very determined 
opposition, on various grounds, in different 





^C-^, /Lr C6^< *^~ 




344 



BIO GRA PHIGA I ENCTCL OPEDIA 



Eugene H., in the mail service at Philadel- 

£hia Mr. Yetter is a member of St. Peter's 
utheran church, and was ee of the 

organization for rnar: < 

;aed, Cha 'chant, Middle- 

town, was boro at ; iondonde 

. November 
23, 1865 • son of Ann and Mary 

(Knerr) Beai I his education 

in the publii sighborhood and 

entered the American 

Tube and where he remained 

for near; In April, 1893, he 

embark:.: ihess, at Mid- 

since conducted. 
iciations are with 
to the principles and 
jives the support of his 
circles he is promi- 
i ship of the Knights of 
and the Junior Order 
Mr. Beard was mar- 
Miss Mary Peters, daughter 
iiddletown, to whom 
i two children : Florence M. 
■ 



MIDI 



:ton township. 



: Eloi erts, M. D., Dau- 

itown, Dauphin 

./.. er 9, 1 529. The Urn- 

berger fai lerman 

... ike in 

physiq goes so far 

to make up the 1 v of the State 

of Penns] ■ he fau ecords on 

I . I ...-■•;•• : 

to that Heinrich 
Umb« ; : two boys 

.: ' . id' >s the '. 

... 

at Philad 28, 

heir t 

k ■: idee] ■. Let 
county, where the, k a 

ear 1 ■ i ■ 

I non. From that 
tory is frequently inter hat of 

the country, and present-. b genera- 

tion some notable poin sons of 

Michael Umberger,. Heinrich's elder son, 
were four in number' • lenry, Adam, 

and Philip. John and ere both 

; ns in the ConL Army under 



"Mad Anthony " Wayne. In the battle of 
Loug Island J< : j .t have been either 

killed or capture be British, for frc 

that day he was n nore seen or heard 

of by his family. H on the contrary, 

served throughout the Rev ilution, and In 
afterward to the remark a g< of one hun- 

dred and three. He left a large family of 
Sons and daughters. The third son, Adam, 
had four children: John, David, Susanna 
H, and Elizabeth. This generation, the 
fourth, is noticeable for a double alliance 
with tlr rich family; the elder son, 

John, marrying Elizabeth Weinrich, and the 
elder daughter, Susanna H., becoming the 
wife of Miss Weinrich's brother, Peter 
Weinrich, afterwards sheriff of Dauphin 
county. The younger sister married Peter 
Heckert, of Linglestown, and died near that 
place at the age of ninety-two. John Um- 
berger was an extensive cattle dealer, operat- 
ing principally in Chester and Delaware 
counties. His sons were David, John, Jr., 
William, and Benjamin ; his daughters. Eliz- 
abeth and Mary. As his uncles had aided 
in the Revolutionary war, so John Umber- 
ger served his country in the war of 1812. 
He was in command of a regiment of militia, 
whose colonel he continued to be until his 
death, in 1S13, at Paoli, Chester county. 

During part of Colonel Umberger's early 
married life he resided in Lower Paxton 
township, at a house known as the "Running 
Pump Hotel." His eldest son. David Um- 
berger, was born in that township, December 
26, 1796. His first business engagements 
were mercantile, and at Harrisburg, Pa., 
where he began, a little later, the study of 
medicine. His preceptor was Dr. Martin 
Luther. Dr. David Umbergei i gradu- 

of the medical pari at, University of 
Pennsylvania, class of 1823. From this date 
until 1827 he practiced at Elizabethtown, 
ter county; 1827 to 1837 in Dauphin 
1837 to 1845 at Jonestown, Lebanon 
In .1845 he returned to his native 
and practiced at Ling! in full 

of the confiden regard of 

. luous duties 
re for his de- 
i . teristic public 
mifested by Dr. 
David Umbergt arnest and effective 

advocacy 4em during 

hisresidi well known 

... determined 
oppositF . arious grounds, indifferent 





, /Lr t£^< ^C^~ 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



847 



parts of the State. It was largely due to the 
influence of Dr. Umberger that the prejudice 
against it was overcome and the publicschools 
established in that part of Lebanon county. 
In later years his fellow-citizens showed their 
appreciation of his worth and sound judg- 
ment by giving him a vote as Democratic 
candidate for Congress from the district com- 
prising Dauphin, Lebanon and Schuylkill 
counties, which, though insufficient to elect 
him, was still flatteringly large. 

In March, 1823, Dr. David Umberger 
married Miss Juliet, daughter of John Rob- 
erts, of Washington county, Pa., a sister of 
Drs. James and Edmund Roberts, of Harris- 
burg, Pa. Dr. and Mrs. Umberger had 
twelve children : James and Emily, twins, 
who died in early infancy ; Emily, Margaret, 
Dr. John R., Juliet, Mary, Dr. Edmund R., 
Jane, Caroline, David, Jr., and Harriet. 
True in the sixth generation to the tradition 
of the family, two sons, Edmund and David, 
served in war for their country. Both en- 
listed in the war of the Rebellion, Dr. Ed- 
mund R. as surgeon in the Ninety-third 
Pennsylvania volunteer infantry, and David 
in the Two Hundred and First regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteer infantry. Both 
were mustered out at Harrisburg, Pa., in 
June, 1S65. Mrs. Umberger was born in 
1804, and died December 6, 1862 ; Dr. Um- 
berger died at the residence of his son, Dau- 
phin, Pa., July 29, 1874. 

The education of Dr. John R. Umberger 
was begun in a log school house in Lower 
Paxton township. His parents removing to 
Lebanon county when he was nine years 
old, he continued his studies, entering the 
public schools which his father had done so 
much to establish. At sixteen the family 
again removed, and to Dauphin county. 
John had already pursued medical studies 
under his father's direction, for two years; 
they were continued until he attained his 
twentieth year when he matriculated at the 
Philadelphia College of Medicine. He was 
graduated in 1852, and has also an honorary 
diploma from the University of Pennsyl- 
vania. He began practice in West Hanover 
township, but in 1855 removed to Dauphin. 
Pa., where he continued to practice until he 
retired from active professional duties in 
181)0. Dr. Umberger is a member of the 
State Medical Association, of the Dauphin 
County Medical Society, of the Harrisburg 
Pathological Society, and a charter member 
of the Harrisburg Academy of Medicine. 
54 



He belongs to Paxton Lodge, No. G21, I. 0. 
0. F. He is a Democrat. On August 24, 
1852. he was appointed aid-de-camp on Gov- 
ernor Bigler's staff with the rank of lieu- 
tenant colonel. 

Dr. John R. Umberger was married, Novem- 
ber 20, 1855, to Mary, daughter of Robert 
and Mary Moody, of South Hanover town- 
ship. They have three children: Lillie J., 
wife of A. T. Poffenberger, medical ex- 
aminer of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany, at Sunbury, Pa., born in January, 
1857, died December 26, 1803; Emily, born 
in December, 1858, wife of Joseph M. Cum- 
mings ; and Mary, born in 1864. The family 
attended the Presbyterian church. 

Dr. James Roberts, elder brother of Mrs. 
David Umberger, was born in 1780, at Wash- 
ington, Pa. He began practice at Harrisburg 
Pa., but removed to Peoria, 111., where he 
died about 1834. During his residence at 
Harrisburg, his younger brother Edmund W. 
Roberts came there to study medicine under 
his preceptorship. Edmund W. was born 
about 1806, at Washington, Pa.; was a grad- 
uate of Yale College, and of the medical 
department of the University of Pennsylva- 
nia. He practiced successfully in Harrisburg 
until his death, which occurred in that city, 
November 10, 1865, in his fifty-ninth year. 
Dr. Edmund W. Roberts married Miss Caro- 
line, daughter of Andrew and Hannah 
(Templin) Ross, of Washington, D. C, and 
sister of Dr. Robert J. Ross, of Harrisburg, 
Pa. Her death took place at Newburg, N. Y., 
January 23, 1S77 ; she is buried at Harris- 
burg. Dr. and Mrs. Roberts bad two chil- 
dren. Their daughter Mary, wife of Rev. 
B. B. Leacock, D. D., of the Episcopal church, 
died at Harrisburg in 1867. 

Dr. Robert J. Ross, although he died in 
his early prime, at the age of thirty-seven, 
was already eminent in his profession. He 
married Mary E., daughter of Judge Foot, 
of the State of New York. They had two 
children. Dr. Ross' death took place April 
4, 1875. 



Coble, Aaron C, M. D., was born in Deny 
township, Dauphin county. Pa., near Hock- 
ersville, at the old Coble homestead, July 6, 
1859. He is a sou of Henry and Mary 
(Riser) Coble. Henry Coble died October 9, 
1S75, aged about forty-five years. He was a 
farmer in the earlier part of his^ life, and 
later engaged in mercantile business. Still 
later he was in hotel business. He had 



848 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENGTCL OPEDIA 



also studied surveying. On November 18, 

1862, he enlisted at Harrisburg in company 
C, One Hundred and Seventy-third regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteer infantry, Col. 
David Nagle. He was fifth sergeant of his 
company. He was discharged August 17, 

1863, at Harrisburg. He was in a number 
of battles. His wife Man 7 , daughter of 
Christian Riser, survives him. They had 
eight children, of whom two are deceased : 
Ida, who died at the age of twelve, and Dr. 
Addison B., who died aged thirty-nine years, 
having lost his life by an accident. Their 
living children are : Sarah, wife of J. A. 
Schoener. of Harrisburg ; Emma, wife of 
William H. Wagner, Camden, N. J.; Ellen, 
wife of Joseph Henning, of Harrisburg ; 
Fanny, wife of Harrison Hoover, Derry 
township ; Harry, and Dr. Aaron C. Mr. 
Coble was an active, industrious man, of ex- 
cellent character and popular with his neigh- 
bors. 

Aaron C. Coble received his early educa- 
tion in the public schools of Linglestown, 
Pa., to which place his parents removed 
when he was nine years old. In 1882 he 
went to Dauphin, Pa., and read medicine 
with his brother, Dr. A. B. Coble. At the 
age of twenty-three he entered the Univer- 
sity of Maryland, at Baltimore, and studied 
there three years, being graduated from that 
institution in 1885. He then returned to 
Dauphin, and continued studying with Dr. 
A. B. Coble for about five years. In 1888 he 
received a diploma from the Pharmaceutical 
Examining Board of Pennsylvania. He 
succeeded his brother, Dr. A. B. Coble, who 
died in November, 1890. He has conducted 
a drug store since 1888, and has established 
a large and lucrative practice. 

Dr. Coble was married, March 26, 1891, 
to Mary O, daughter of Elias and Ann Mary 
(Schaeffer) Fertig. Mrs. Fertig died August 
17, 1895, aged about seventy -one years. Mr. 
Fertig is still living. They had five chil- 
dren : Milton, Maria, Elizabeth, Mary O, 
and Laura. Dr. Coble has served as borough 
school director. He was a delegate to the 
Republican State Convention in 1891. He 
is a member of Perry Lodge, No. 458, F. & 
A. M., at Marysville, and of Patton Lodge, 
No. 621, I. O.'O. F., at Dauphin. He is a 
Republican. He and his family attend the 
Lutheran church. 



Milliken, Thomas, justice of the peace, 
was born at Petersburg, now Duncannon, 



Perry county, Pa., December 24, 1830. His 
father was born in Tuscarora Valley, Juniata 
county, Pa., August 4, 1794, and died De- 
cember 28, 1860. His mother died June 9, 
1855, aged about forty-four. The first wife 
of the elder Mr. Milliken was Rachel Bran- 
yon, by whom he had two children, John 
and James. His second wife was Susanna 
Parker. They had nine children : Isaac, 
Thomas, Joseph E., William Parker, Susanna 
Parker, Francis Bonner, Jackson McFadden, 
Alexander Jackson, and Charles Parker. 
The boys all volunteered in the army. Isaac 
was in a cavalry company, under Captain 
Sanno, of Carlisle ; Joseph, in company D, 
One Hundred and Seventh regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers; William, in the old 
Eleventh infantry regiment, Colonel Colter; 
Francis B., in company B, Eighty-seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers; and A. 
Jackson, in the Fourteenth and Fifteenth 
regiments, United States regulars. 

Thomas Milliken attended the public 
schools of his native town. The family re- 
moved first to Bloomfield, afterwards to 
Liverpool, both in Perry county. When 
Thomas was six years of age they went to 
Harrisburg, where he attended the city 
schools. Later, having removed to Coxes- 
town, he attended a school there which was 
taught by Charles Huston in an old log 
school house, near where the Methodist Epis- 
copal church now stands. The next removal 
was to the premises known as the old Burnt 
Tavern ; the next to the old Clark's Ferry 
Tavern, where he went to the old log school 
house on Duncan's Island. Once more he 
removed with his parents to the place then 
known as Greensburg and Port Lyon, now 
Dauphin, where Thomas attended school 
under J. Wilson Parks. 

At the age of seventeen Mr. Milliken be- 
gan work on his own account, being em- 
ployed as driver on the canal. Later he 
kept store for J. G. Updegrove, atCoxestown, 
and afterwards attended store at Matamoras, 
Powell's Valley, for James Reed. He returned 
to his job on the canal at Dauphin, receiving as 
wages eight dollars per month. His parents 
at this time removed to Clark's Ferry and 
kept tavern. On April 26, 1849, he engaged 
with his uncle, A. R. Kincade, in mercantile 
business on Duncan's Island. After carry- 
ing on this business for a year he sold his 
interest and engaged in section boating on 
the canal, and shipped between Philadelphia 
and Pittsburgh. He was thus occupied for 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



-t;i 



about sixteen years, being at the same time 
engaged with George G. Neuer in butcher- 
ing at Dauphin. In March, l.si>5, Mr. Milli- 
ken enlisted at Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, in 
company I, Capt. John Bell, Seventy-seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, Col. 
Thomas E. Rose. His regiment was sent as 
far south as Texas. He was discharged at 
Victoria, Texas, December 6, 1805, and re- 
turned to Dauphin. In 18GG he engaged in 
keeping hotel and boating at Dauphin locks. 
In March, 1892, he removed to the home- 
stead, where he now resides. He was elected 
justice of the peace in 1887 and re-elected in 
1892, and has served in that office up to the 
present time. His political views are Demo- 
cratic. The family are Presbyterians, and 
are of Scotch-Irish descent. 

Mr. Milliken was married, at the old Stees 
Hotel, December 7, 1852, to Mary J., daugh- 
ter of Frederick and Catherine (Hassinger) 
Stees. Of their four children all are deceased 
but one, Augustus Bell, born October 1,1856. 
He is at present general superintendent of 
the erection department of the Phoenix 
Bridge Company, Phcenixville, Pa. Their 
deceased children are : Susanna Parker, born 
September 18, 1853, died April 12,1872; 
Esther Graydon, born November 30, 1S59, 
died January 29, 1862 ; Thomas, born July 
7, 1862, died February 2, 1877 ; and Daniel 
Stees, born August 25, 1S68, died September 
27, 1868. 



Bell, William A., was born in Stony 
Creek, formerly known as Bell's Valley, near 
Dauphin, Dauphin county, Pa., June 11, 
1826. He is a son of William and Clarissa 
(Armstrong) Bell. He was one of nine chil- 
dren : Jane E., Theodore J., Mary W., Cla- 
rissa A., two who died in infancy, Alfred, 
Armstrong, and Sarah Ellen. He was edu- 
cated in his native township and at Dauphin, 
and learned carpentry with Isaac Updegrove, 
at Coxestown. He worked at his trade in the 
employ of Messrs. Stone it < ^uigley. contractors 
and builders, until 1865 or '66. Having 
thus obtained a full knowledge of the busi- 
ness he became a contractor and builder on 
his own account, and continued in this occu- 
pation until his death, December 24, 1880. 
He was a man of enterprise and integrity and 
possessed the esteem and confidence of his 
neighbors. 

Mr. Bell was married, February 10, 1852, 
to Miss Sabra M., daughter of Frederick and 
Catherine (Hassinger) Stees, born at Millers- 



burg, then Union, now Snyder county, Pa., 
August 17, 1827 ; afterwards her parents re- 
moving first to Chapman township, Snyder 
county, and then to Rock vi lie, she attended 
the district schools of both places. Removing 
in 1838 to Dauphin, she completed her edu- 
cation there, and has ever since resided there. 
Mr. and Mrs Bell had four children : two are 
deceased : Charles Lovell, born April 4, 1854, 
died July 21, 1S54, and Bertha Burton, born 
August 6, 1858, died October 8, 1858. Their 
living children are : Katherine S., born April 
24, 1860, married to W. P. Clark, May 12, 
1888; and Anna O, born August 12, 1867. 

Mr. Stees, the father of Mrs. Bell, was born 
in April, 1796, and died January 24,1864. 
Her mother was born March 28, 1799, and 
died August 19, 1S76. They had nine chil- 
dren : Reuben H., Julia Ann, Josiah, Aaron, 
Sabra M., Mary Jane, Elizabeth, Alfred F., 
and one who died in infancy. Mr. Bell was 
a member of the Masonic Lodge of Marys- 
ville. After 1S57 he was a Republican. The 
family attend the Presbyterian church. 



Gayman, John P., was born in Stony Creek 
Valley, Dauphin county, Pa., February 22, 
1825. He is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth 
(Etiein) Gayman. His grandfather, Isaac 
Gayman, was a soldier in Washington's 
army. His father, Jacob Gayman, was born 
May 11, 1789. It was in 1794 or 1795 that 
Isaac Gayman and his wife settled in Stony 
Creek Valley on the homestead which has 
been in possession of the family from that 
time to the present. Jacob Gayman was 
colonel of the Sixteenth Pennsylvania 
militia in 1812. His wife, Elizabeth Ettein, 
was born July 8, 1795. They had twelve 
children, seven of whom are deceased : AYill- 
iam, born October 9, 1829, died May 15, 
1832; Sarah, wife of Philip Miller, "bom 
July 9, 1816; Isaac, born June 1, 1823; 
Elizabeth, born January 1, 1815, wife of 
John Stuesley ; Ellen, born October 1, 1831, 
wife of James Reed ; Jacob, born May 9, 
1827: Mary, born June 6, 1821, wife of Joel 
Ney. The surviving children are : Charles, 
born October 16, 1817; Leah, born Septem- 
ber 29, 1819, widow of Jacob Chubb : John 
P.; Catherine, born November 25, 1833. wife 
of William Kline; Samuel W.. born March 
3, 1836. The father died September 17. 
1845, and the mother November 23, 1863. 

John P. (layman attended a private school 
taught by a Mr. Xeill and Walter Bell, in a 
small structure about sixteen by eighteen 



850 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



feet, built of logs and mud mortar. When 
he was about fourteen, the public schools 
having been established, he attended them. 
School was then held for three months in 
the winter season. During the spring and 
summer months John worked on his father's 
farm. At the age of twenty he began to 
teach during the winter, receiving a salary 
of twenty dollars per month. He continued 
farming and teaching for about ten years. 

When Mr. Gay man was twenty -one he en- 
gaged in farming on his own account, having 
bought the old homestead after his father's 
death. He still taught school during the 
winter. When he was twenty-six years old 
he traveled through the Western States. In 
the following summer he repeated his West- 
ern trip. While at Chicago, 111., in 1848, 
ten acres of ground were offered to him atten 
dollars per acre, in what is now the central 
part of the city. Owing to the marshy con- 
dition of the ground he refused to invest. It 
was land which had been granted by 
the Government to the school board. Mr. 
Gayman returned from the West to the old 
homestead, and continued farming until 
1883, when he retired from active business 
and removed to his present residence in 
Dauphin. 

He was married, December 22, 1854, to 
Lucy A., daughter of Henry and Lucy 
Hyde, born November 29, 1833. They had 
six children : John Cloyde, born October 
23, 1876, died October 27, 1881 ; Elizabeth, 
born October 23, 1854, widow of Thomas 
Wertz ; Jenny Ellen, born November 9, 
1856; Margaret Lucy, born June 1, 1858; 
Ida Catherine, born October 12, 1868, wife of 
Louis Stager ; Bertha Louisa, born February 
6, 1874. Mrs. Gayman died August 11, 
1893. Mr. Gayman has served in several 
township offices for a number of terms each. 
He is a Democrat. He and his family at- 
tend the Presbyterian church. 



POFFENBERGER, LEONARD, blacksmith, 

Dauphin, Dauphin county, Pa., was born De- 
cember 15, 1823, in Middle Paxton township, 
within half a mile of his present home, where 
he has lived forty-five years. He was a son 
of William and Catharine (Noll) Poffenber- 
ger. 

The first record in the possession of the 
family is of the arrival of the ship Pink Mary, 
of Dublin, September 29, 1733, when George 
Pfaffenberger, George Pfaffenberger, Jr., Eliza- 
beth, aged eleven, Christina, six, and Adam, 



four years of age, landed. The next is of the 
grandfather of Leonard Poffenberger, Daniel, 
who died July 29, 1845, and is buried at St. 
John's church, near Ellerton, Md. He was 
a farmer and a resident of Frederick county, 
Md., where he died, aged about ninety-five 
years. His wife died September 28, 1831. 
They left a large family of sons and daugh- 
ters. One of their sons, William Poffenber- 
ger, was born July 22, 1783, and died Feb- 
ruary 22, 1842. His wife, Catherine Noll, 
was born August 19, 1779, and died Feb- 
ruary 9, 1841. They were residents of Mid- 
dle Paxton township. They were married 
February 28, 1804, and had ten children, 
whose biographies are briefly as follows: 

(1) Daniel, born February 7, 1805, mar- 
ried Margaret Heckert, March 15, 1832, died 
March 6, 1872; (2) Elizabeth Sarah, born 
August 25, 1806, married Daniel McAllister, 
May 12, 1831, died March 5, 1843; (3) Will- 
iam, born March 22, 1810, married Henrietta 
McConnell, March 12, 1840, died May 2, 
1860 ; (4) Mary Magdalena, born March 22, 
1812, married Joseph Buchanan in Novem- 
ber, 1843, died November 24, 1881; (5) 
George, born March 28, 1813, married Rachel 
Poffenberger, a distant relative, died March 
6, 1872 ; (6) Catherine, born February 24, 
1815, married George Singer, January 31, 
1839, died December 10, 1839; (7) Susanna, 
born January 20, 1817, resided with her 
brother Leonard for about thirty years be- 
fore her death, September 24, 1881 ; (8) John, 
born May 21, 1819, married Elizabeth Rut- 
ter in 1842, died June 10, 1861 ; (9) Andrew, 
born July 29, 1821, died September 1, 1823; 
(10) Leonard. 

Three nephews of Leonard Poffenberger 
served in the Union army in the war of the 
Rebellion. William L., son of John Poffen- 
berger, enlisted February 24, 1865, in com- 
pany H, One Hundred and Ninety-second 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
discharged at Harper's Ferry in August, 
1865; Joseph, son of Daniel Poffenberger, 
enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventy- 
third regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
under Capt. C. A. Harper. He was after- 
terwards in the commissary department at 
Chambersburg, Pa.; William H, son of 
George Poffenberger, having served for three 
years, and going home re-enlisted in the 
regular United States arm}'. 

Miss Margaret S. Poffenberger, who has 
for four years resided with her uncle, is the 
daughter of his eldest brother, Dauiel. 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY . 



-:.l 



Leonard Poffenberger received his educa- 
tion in the public and private schools of his 
native township. At the age of eighteen he 
entered upon an apprenticeship with his 
brother Daniel, and served two years at the 
blacksmith trade. After working five years 
as a journeyman at various places, Mr. Pof- 
fenberger engaged in business for himself in 
Dauphin county in 1850, which he con- 
ducted almost continuously for forty-five 
3 7 ears, having associated with himself, since 
1881, his nephew, William L. Poffenberger. 
Being very talented, ingenious and a skilled 
mechanic, his fame as a workman spread for 
miles around, and he was able for many 
years to carry on a very profitable business. 
Honest, generous, and trustworthy, he enjoyed 
universal confidence, and was chosen for 
various positions of responsibility. He 
served for twenty-five years on the school 
board, part of the time as its treasurer. He 
was for several terms a member of the bor- 
ough council and its treasurer, besides being 
treasurer of the Lutheran church for thirty- 
nine years. 

Formerly an "Old Line Whig," Mr. Poffen- 
berger has long been an ardent Republican. 

On September 19, 1850, Leonard Poffen- 
berger was married, by Rev. C. F. Stoever. 
to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth 
(Miller) Kinter. Their children were : Jane 
Elizabeth, born July G, 1851, died September 
15. 1S52 ; Anna Maria, born November 8, 
1856, died August G, 1859, and Albert Theo- 
dore, born November 9, 1853. Mrs. Eliza- 
beth Poffenberger was born November 11, 
1828 and died July 4, 1858. In April, 1861, 
Mr. 'Poffenberger married his second wife, 
Ann E., daughter of Christian and Ann 
Gross, who was his companion and helpmate 
in life until July 4, 1892, when she, too, 
passed away. 

Albert Theodore Poffenberger, the only 
surviving child of this family, was educated 
in the publicum! private schools of Dauphin 
and at Harrisburg Academy : lie also took a 
course at Crittenden's Commercial College, 
Philadelphia. lie held a clerkship in the 
office of an insurance company in Pottsvillc, 
Pa., in the early part of 1873; but later in 
the year entered the Locbiel Iron Company's 
store as clerk, remaining two years. After 
teaching school one term in Dauphin, Mr. 
Poffenberger began the study of medicine in 
April, 1876, in the office of l>r. William 
Graydon. lie studied three years and at- 
tended three courses of lectures at Jefferson 



Medical College, Philadelphia. He was 
graduated in the class of March, 1879, receiv- 
ing honorable mention for his thesis. After 
practicing one year with Dr. J. R. Umberger, 
and nine years on his own account with a 
fair measure of success, he was appointed 
medical examiner in the voluntary relief de- 
partment of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany with offices at Sunbury, Pa., a position 
he has ever since filled with credit. Dr. 
Poffenberger still enjoys the confidence of 
home friends who seek his professional ad- 
vice when he visits his native town. 

Dr. Poffenberger has gained a reputation 
as an amateur photographer, and being fond 
of travel, he has visited many places of in- 
terest in the United States, from Plymouth 
Rock to Salt Lake City, and from Niagara 
Falls to the Lake Worth region of Florida. 

In November, 1879, Dr. Albert Theodore 
Poffenberger was married to Lillie Jane, 
daughter of Dr. J. R. and Mary H. Umber- 
ger; she died, beloved by everybody, Decem- 
ber 23, 1S93. During their fourteen years 
of married life they had five children, one 
of whom, William Moody, was born in Octo- 
ber, 1892, and died May 10, 1893. The sur- 
viving children are: Mary Elizabeth, born 
January 5,1881; John Leonard, July 27,1SS3; 
Charles Albert, October 23, 188G, and Joseph 
Cummings, October 27, 1888. 



Fertig, Emas, was born at the old home- 
stead, near Dauphin, then known as Greens- 
burg, Dauphin county, Pa., April 13. 1817. 
He is a son of Adam and Elizabeth (Klein) 
Fertig. His grandfather, Michael Fertig, 
with his family, was among the first who 
came to this locality and settled above Dau- 
phin. His children were: Peter, John, Adam. 
Zachariah, Michael, and Anna .Maria, wife of 
Jacob Bogner, a soldier in the Revolution. He 
lived to the age of one hundred and four years, 
t\ve months and five days. Adam Fertig, 
father of Eli as Fertig, and his brother Peter, 
were drafted and served in the war of 1812. 
He died in November, 1839, aged sixty-three 
years. His wife was born in 1800, and died 
aged eighty years. They hail eight children. 
two of whom, Jacob ami a sister, died in in- 
fancy. Their other children were: Michael ; 
Anna Maria, wife of Daniel Snyder: Sam- 
uel: Elias; Clarissa, wife of John Gar man, 
.■ind Solomon. 

Elias fertig received his education in the 
private schools near |)auphin. His first 
schoolmaster was Andrew Sproul. He at- 



852 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



tended school only during the winter. He 
worked on his father's farm until he was 
twenty-two years of age. When his father 
died he farmed the homestead for his mother ; 
and when his brother Solomon reached his 
majority they consolidated their interests 
with the mother's, and continued to operate 
the farm. They were so successful that shortly 
after they bought an additional tract of land 
from William Poffenberger, and continued 
their joint interests until their mother's death. 
Elias Fertig then acquired the old homestead, 
consisting of one hundred and sixty acres. 
He has continued farming to the present 
time. 

Mr. Fertig was married, March 28, 1850, to 
Anna Mary, daughter of George and Anna 
(Arnold) Shaffer, born December 3, 1823. 
They have five children : Elizabeth Frances, 
born March 12, 1852, wife of Reily Bogner; 
Adam Milton, born December 29, 1853 ; Anna 
Maria, born August 9, 1855, widow of John 
R. Kinter ; Mary G, born March 1, 1859, wife 
of Dr. A. C. Coble, of Dauphin, and Laura, 
born Julv 28, 1860, wife of John F. Dewalt. 
Mrs. Fertig died August 27, 1895. Her 
parents were residents of Snyder county, Pa. 
Her father, George Shaffer, was three times 
married and left a large family of sons and 
daughters. Mr. Fertig has served his town- 
ship as supervisor and assessor and in other 
minor offices. He is a Democrat. He and 
his family are members of the Lutheran 
church. 



Miller, John Patterson, was born Jan- 
uary 7, 1814. He was a son of Samuel and 
Elizabeth (Pauly) Miller, of Juniata count}', 
Pa. He engaged in boating in early life, and 
was captain on the line running between 
Columbia and Hollidaysburg on the Penn- 
sylvania canal. At the age of nineteen, he 
engaged in hotel keeping at Thompsontown, 
Juniata county. He removed to Dauphin 
county April 1, 1844, and located at the old 
Armstrong property, known as the Fish 
Hotel, originally bought by James Armstrong 
about 1810/ and at that time called the 
Franklin Hotel. In 1784, the old structure 
had been partially destroyed by an ice flood. 
Mr. Miller continued there until 1849. The 
old building was then removed on account 
of the construction of the Susquehanna and 
Schuylkill railroad. He then removed to 
the Hetzel Hotel in Dauphin, where he died 
October 2, 1850. 

Mr. Miller was married, March 1, 1842, to 



Jane E., daughter of William and Clara 
(Armstrong) Bell. She was born in the Stony 
Creek Valley, east of Dauphin, Pa,, January 
20, 1822. She received her education in the 
private schools of Middle Paxton township. 
Her parents having removed in 1828 to the old 
Armstrong mansion at Hunter's Falls, near 
Dauphin, known as the Fish Hotel, she re- 
mained with them until her marriage to Mr. 
Miller. She had three children : George 
Dare, born March 11, 1847, died January 20, 
1851 ; Emma, wife of John F. Kinter, born 
September 21, 1843, and William Bell, born 
August 14, 1845. 

Mrs. Miller was married a second time, De- 
cember 30, 1852, to J. Peter Miller ; son of Sam- 
uel and Susan (Young) Miller, not related to 
herfirsthusband. They had no children. He 
died April 14, 1891. He was a farmer and 
botcher. After his marriage he moved to 
Dauphin, and was prominent as an auction- 
eer. During the war he was an extensive 
buyer of horses and mules for the Govern- 
ment. In 1865, he removed to Harrisburg, 
and bought what was then known as the 
Black Horse Hotel, corner of Vine and Pax- 
ton streets. In 1872, he sold the premises 
to the Harrisburg School Board. He then 
bought the Fox Hotel, at the corner of Herr 
and North Front streets, and resided there 
until 1890, when he bought the present home- 
stead at Dauphin. 

William Bell, the father of Mrs. Miller, was 
born in Bell's Valley, Middle Paxton town- 
ship, July 20, 1796. He was a farmer early 
in life, and later a hotel keeper. He served 
one term in the Legislature. For many 
years he kept the Fish Hotel, where he died 
March 1, 1844. His wife died March 8, 1844. 
His father, James Bell, was a son of William 
Bell, who settled there in 1774. The great- 
grandfather of Mrs. Miller, Robert Armstrong, 
was the first white man to whom William 
Penn deeded land. His son, James Arm- 
strong, had four daughters, and a son who 
died young. James Armstrong married 
Jane, daughter of John and Sarah (Patton) 
Hatfield. The family are members of the 
Presbvterian church. 



Kinter, Samuel, cabinet maker and un- 
dertaker, was born near Maclay street, on the 
old Kunkel farm, in Susquehanna township, 
near Harrisburg, Pa., July 20, 1822. He is 
a son of John and Elizaheth (Miller) Kinter. 
His father was born March 20, 1785, and 
died February 16, 1833, aged forty-eight 



DA UPIIIN CO UNTY. 



853 



years. His mother died October 25, 1865, 
aged seventy-five years, five months and 
fourteen days. They had seven children, 
five of whom are deceased: Peter, who died 
in infancy; Catherine, wife of John Fertig; 
John, died September 30, 184S, aged thirty- 
five years; Elizabeth, wife of Leonard Pof- 
fenberger, born November 11, 1828, died July 
4, 1858, and George, who died July 21, 1887. 
Their living children are Samuel and Isaac. 

Samuel Kinter attended school at Coxes- 
town. When he was ten years old, the family 
removing to Stony Creek Valley, Middle Pax- 
ton township, he attended the old private 
school at Dauphin, near the Dauphin ceme- 
tery, until he was fourteen ; after that he 
went for three years to the public school. 
At seventeen he began an apprenticeship of 
three years to the carpenter trade with John 
Bell, at Fort Hunter; after which he worked 
at his trade as a journeyman for about three 
years. At twenty-three years of age he be- 
gan carpentry on his own account ; in 1857 
he changed it for his present occupation, 
cabinet making and undertaking, which he 
has ever since carried on. 

Mr. Kinter was married, December 24, 

1844, to Susanna, daughter of Abraham and 
Sarah (Inch) Taylor, born at Liverpool, 
Perry county, Pa., April 10, 1822. They 
had four children, two of whom are de- 
ceased: Elizabeth Ann, born November 22, 

1845, died March 21, 1849; John Ruther- 
ford, born January 17, 1851, married in 
1875 to Anna Maria Fertig, by whom he 
had two children, died January 20, 1882 : 
Spencer Gilbert, and Mary Susan. The sur- 
viving children of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel 
Kinter are George Cooper, born June 7, 
1855, and William Dal, born June 2, I860. 
Mrs. Kinter died August 24, 1882. She and 
her husband were members of the Methodist 
Episcopal church of Dauphin. She was a 
consistent and devoted Christian ; she took 
an active part in every measure and move- 
ment to promote the temporal and spiritual 
interests of the church. She was president 
of the Ladies' Mite Society from its organi- 
zation, a period of fourteen years. Her 
Christian sympathy and large heart were 
manifested in visiting the sick and the poor, 
and caring for them. She was everywhere 
spoken of with esteem and affection, and 
many will cherish the most grateful recol- 
lections of her kindness and generosity. 

On January 20, L887, Mr. Kinter married 
his second wife, Harriet .J. Linton, widow of 



James M. Linton, and daughter of Alexan- 
der and Anna Brooks. 

Mr. Kinter has served two terms as bur- 
gess and a number of terms as school 
director of Dauphin borough. His political 
views are Republican ; his first vote for Pres- 
ident as a Republican was cast for Abraham 
Lincoln. He is a member in good standing 
of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. O. O. F., 
at Harrisburg. Mr. and Mrs. Kinter are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal church. 

The parents of the present Mrs. Kinter 
are both deceased. They had eleven chil- 
dren : Catherine, James, Rachel A., Mary E., 
Harriet J., Adeline E., William B., Hiram 
T, Julia A., Sarah M., and George A. James 
Brooks, brother of Mrs. Kinter, removed to 
the vicinity of Richmond, A T a., and estab- 
lished a profitable business in the black- 
smith trade. When the war came he was 
pressed into the Confederate service, and his 
smithy was converted to the use of the South- 
ern army. He was subsequently designated 
as sergeant under Captain McKinney, and 
three months later was sent out in charge of 
a foraging train to collect the tithe levied by 
the Confederate government upon the farm- 
ers. The citizens and some of the officials 
protested against the appointment of Mr. 
Brooks to a position of responsibility, on the 
ground that no Yankee could be considered 
trustworthy. But in the case of the Brooks 
boys the objection did not hold good. Their 
integrity and honor made even their cove- 
nant with enemies inviolable. 

William Brooks, another brother, enlisted 
in the One Hundred and Thirty-third Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, in which regiment he 
served nine months, and was honorably dis- 
charged. He participated in a number of 
fierce engagements. John Brooks, an uncle 
of Mrs. Kinter, was a soldier in the war of 
1812. 



Houser, John, merchant, was born at 
Manada Furnace, West Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., May 15, 1843. He is 
a son of William and Catherine (Mease) 
Houser. His grandparents, the Housers, 
were born at Schaefferstown, Lebanon county, 
Pa., and had a large family of sons and 
daughters. William Plouser, his father, was 
born September 2, 1822. He enlisted in 
November, 1802, at Camp Curtin, Harris- 
burg, in company C, One Hundred and 
Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania volunteers, 
Captain Beck, Colonel Wiestling. He died 



854 



BIO GRA PHI GA L EN CYGL OPEDIA 



at Portsmouth, Va., August 3, 1863. His 
wife, Catherine (Mease) Houser, died in Feb- 
ruary, 1863. The}' had five children : Joseph 
William, died at about three years of age ; 

ohn, Benneville, Henry, and Elizabeth, 
widow of George Rahn. 

John Houser was educated in the public 
schools of West Hanover township. He 
worked on the farm until he was eighteen. 
He enlisted, September 2, 1861, at Camp 
Curtin, Harrisburg, in company D, Forty- 
sixth Pennsylvania volunteers, Capt. George 
A. Brooks and Col. Joseph F. Knipe, and 
served in that company until July 16, 1865, 
when he was discharged at Alexandria, Va. 
He was taken prisoner at Cedar Mountain, 
August 9, 1862, and was imprisoned four 
weeks on Belle Island, near Richmond, Va., 
when he was exchanged and returned to his 
company. He was again captured at Chancel- 
lorsville, May 2, 1863, and confined in Libby 
prison, at Richmond. After suffering con- 
finement and privation for thirteen days, he 
was paroled. 

Mr. Houser was twice wounded during 
the battle at Peachtree Creek, Ga., in the 
siege of Atlanta. He received a bullet 
wound in the right hip, and a few minutes 
later was struck by a bullet below the tem- 
ple. The ball lodged near the cheek bone, 
and remains there to the present time. He 
fell to the ground from the shock of the 
second wound, was borne to the hospital, 
and subsequently removed to the hospital 
at Louisville, Ky., where he remained three 
months. When discharged from the hos- 
pital he rejoined his regiment, and partici- 
pated in "Sherman's march to the sea." 
Among the battles which he took part may 
be mentioned Winchester, Cedar Mountain, 
Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Resaca, Ga., 
Dallas, Ga., Manilta, Peachtree Creek and 
Benton ville, N. C. At the close of the war Mr. 
Houser returned home, and enlisted in com- 
pany I, Sixth cavalry, U. S. A., and served 
three years along the frontier in Texas. He 
was honorably discharged at Fort Griffin, 
Texas, and retured home. He located at 
Heckton, Middle Paxton township. He 
suffered severely from the effects of his 
wounds, and was pensioned by the United 
States Government in 1878. 

In the spring of 1869 Mr. Houser engaged 
in carpenter work. He has been an exten- 
sive builder and contractor. He built a 
great number of the houses at Heckton, and 
many also at Dauphin. He constructed all 



the wood work of the Methodist Episcopal 
church edifice at Dauphin. In 1889 he em- 
barked iu mercantile business at Heckton, 
in which he is still engaged and has been 
very successful. 

Mr. Houser was married, November 2, 
1871, to Mary, daughter of Levi and Amanda 
(Harman) Zimmerman, by whom he has 
two children: Emma C, wife of T. Emerick, 
and Carrie. Mr. Houser has served one 
term as school director. He is a Democrat. 
He and his family attend the Methodist 
church. Mr. Zimmerman, Mrs. Houser's 
father, died aged fifty-three; her mother is 
still living. They had ten children : John ; 
Catherine, wife of John Brown; Mary; 
Amanda, wife of George Rice ; Levi ; Henri- 
etta, wife of Louis Gayman ; Joseph ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of Henry Houser; Matilda, wife 
of Frank Albert ; Emma, Levi, Henrietta, 
and Emma are deceased. 



Craig, L. P., section foreman, Philadel- 
phia and Reading railroad, was born in 
Middle Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., August 22, 1844. He is a son of An- 
drew and Rachel (Enty) Craig. Andrew 
Craig was born near Fort Hunter, Susque- 
hanna township, Dauphin county, Septem- 
ber 21, 1795. He died August 24, 1864. 
His wife, Rachel Enty, was a native of 
Schuylkill county. She died January 7, 
1887. They had eleven children : Esther, 
John, Cyrus, Hannah, L. P., Richard H., 
Mar} ? R., wife of William R. Hopkins, and 
four who are deceased. 

L. P. Craig attended the public school 
during the winter. From ten to twelve years 
of age he attended the public school of Dau- 
phin, and afterwards in Stony Creek Valley. 
He left school at the age of sixteen and 
worked at farming in the summer ; he also 
sawed wood with Elijah Stout for the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company. He aftevwards 
succeeded Mr. Stout, and furnished the com- 
pany with wood for locomotive use until 
1865, when coal took the place of wood as 
fuel. 

At Harrisburg. February 19, 1865, he en- 
listed for one year in company M, Second 
United States cavalry, Capt. Edwin Hughes. 
He was sent with his compan} r to Camp 
William Penn, Philadelphia; thence to Nor- 
folk, Va.; thence to Brazos, Santiago, Tex., 
and thence to Clarksville. He was returned 
to City Point, Va., where he was mustered 
out of service February 11,1866. He then 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



855 



returned home, and was for three years em- 
ployed by the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany in sawing wood, and afterwards as 
track repairer. In 1872 he was sent from 
Dauphin to Rattling Run and placed in 
charge of a section of railroad, controlled by 
the Philadelphia and Reading Company, as 
foreman, which position he has held to the 
present time. 

Mr. Craig was married, February 3, 1876, 
to Amelia, daughter of William and Mary 
Ann (Care) Surls. Of their two children 
one died in infancy, not yet named ; the 
other, Andrew Edward L., was born August 
17, 1879, and died November 24, 1891. Mr. 
Craig is a Republican. He belongs to G. 
A. R. Post 520, Harrisburg, Pa. He and his 
family are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal church. 

Mr. Surls, Mrs. Craig's father, was an iron- 
worker. Mrs. Surls died at the age of fifty- 
nine ; eleven months later Mr. Surls died 
aged sixty-two years. Both were natives of 
Berks county, where they spent their lives, 
except the last twelve years, during which 
they lived in Lebanon counts'. They had 
sixteen children, of whom five are living: 
Amelia, Mrs. Craig; Jacob; Susanna, wife 
of James Underbill ; Nelson, and Mary 
Emma, wife of William Jones. 

Mrs. Jones has four children, two of whom 
are living with their uncle, Mr. Craig: 
Naomi Nora, whom Mr. and Mrs. Craig have 
adopted, and Joshua Birch. 



Irwin, Daniel, whose parents are both de- 
ceased, was one of a family of twelve chil- 
dren : John L., Mary, Elizabeth, Martha, 
Sarah, Joseph, Samuel, David, William, 
Daniel, Jane, and Catherine. Mr. Irwin 
began life without material inheritance, but 
with a body and mind capable of profiting 
by the good training which he received in 
his boyhood and youth. With industry, 
energy, enterprise and worthy aim he began 
the work of life, and rapidly attained valu- 
able results. lie was brought up as a farmer' 
and after his marriage pursued this vocation 
on his own account. In 1866 he bought the 
homestead, on which he resided until his 
death, which occurred October26, 1892. His 
politics were Republican. In all social and 
private walks of life he was faithful to duty. 
amicable in disposition and agreeable in 
manner. He was, morever. successful in 
business and had the satisfaction of securing 



an ample competence for the loved ones he 
left behind him. 

Mr. Irwin was married, in Harrisburg, Pa., 
March 4, 1856, by Rev. Charles A. Hay, to 
Miss Agnes A., daughter of Peter and Susan 
(Brooks) Lehman. She was born at Ellen- 
dale Forge, in Stony Creek Valley, Middle 
Paxton township, June 11, 1840. She at- 
tended the district school of Middle Paxton 
township and resided with her parents. 
After she was twelve years of age she resided 
with Dr. William Graydon, at Dauphin, for 
one year, and then with Man' and Sarah 
Irwin, sisters of her future husband, for 
about three years. She was then at home 
with her mother until her marriage with Mr. 
Irwin. Mr. and Mrs. Irwin had eleven chil- 
dren, one of whom is deceased : Mary, born 
May 4, 1859, married to Augustus Dewalt, 
had three children : Frederick, Bertha, and 
Sallie, died September 27, 1888. The sur- 
vivors of the Irwin family are: Clara B , 
born May 18, 1857, wife of Samuel Warner; 
John L., born February 21, 1861; Emma 
C, born December 3, 1863, widow of Harvey 
Steeley ; Martha G., born August 19, 1866 ; 
Susan E., born August 7, 1868, wife of 
George Murray; Ida M., born August 3, 
1870, wife of Elijah Dewalt ; William B., born 
September 3, 1873 ; Charles D., November 
16, 1875; Etta M., February 26, 1S78; and 
Anna B., May 13, 1880. Mrs. Irwin has 
maintained the home up to the present time 
and the children reside with her. 

Mr. Lehman, Mrs. Irwin's father, died aged 
about forty -eight years; her mother died 
September 6, 1892, aged seventy-six. They 
bad six children, of whom I wo are deceased : 
James, who died in the army, from typhoid 
fever, at Belle Plain Landing, Va.. and 
William. Their living children are: Mary, 
wife of Philip Kline: Agnes A., George, 
and Ellen, wife of Benjamin M. Carroll. 
Mrs. Irwin ami family are members of the 
Presbyterian church. 



Xi-.y. Joel, farmer, was born near Pal- 
myra, Lebanon county, Pa., March 17. 1820. 
! !'• is a son of Samuel and Catherine! Kaiser i 
Ney, both deceased. His parents had Svu 
children: Lucetta, wife of Thomas Couts, 
deceased ; -loci ; Caroline, wife of Thomas 
( lay ton ; Lydia, wife of a Mr. Kicker, who re- 
moved to Oregon, where she died, and 
William. 

Joel Ney, ai ten years of age came with 
his parents to Middle Paxton township. 



856 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



where he attended a private school until he 
was about fifteen. He then attended the 
district school in winter and assisted on his 
father's farm during the summer. When he 
was about twenty-five he began farming for 
himself near Stone Glen Station, Middle 
Paxton township, and continued there for 
about nine years. He then resided upon 
and cultivated John P. Gayman's farm for 
about two years, after which he removed to 
his present homestead. 

Mr. Ney was married, May 1, 1845, to 
Mary, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Gay- 
man. Of their eight children, four are de- 
ceased; one who died in infancy, unnamed; 
Charles, died October 14, 1869 ; Louisa, born 
October 21, 1860, died October 28, 1862; 
John, born February 15, 1851, died March 
18, 1887. Their living children are Amos, 
born August 21, 1846, was in the army and 
served about four months; Henry, December 
25, 1848 ; Catherine, February 17, 1854, wife 
of John Bickle ; Lewis, October 24, 1857, who 
was married August 17, 1876, to Clara, 
daughter of John and Sarah Geistwhite, 
and had four children : Frank, born Febru- 
ary 14, 1877; Mary Alice, December 22, 
1878; George Lewis, September 24, 1880, 
and Harper Joel, September 3, 1887. Lewis 
Nej', father of the children just named, was 
educated in the district schools of Middle 
Paxton township, which he attended until 
he was eighteen years old. He then began 
farming on his father's farm and has con- 
tinued in that occupation up to the present 
time. 

Mr. Joel Ney has served three years as tax 
collector of Middle Paxton township. He is 
a Republican. He and his family attend 
the Lutheran church. His wife died De- 
cember 24, 1895. 



Sebourn, Andrew, was born in Philadel- 
phia, in the district then known as South- 
wark, January 14, 1823. He was left an or- 
phan at four years of age, and was cared for 
at the Orphans' Home, Philadelphia, until 
he was nine. He was then indentured by 
that institution to Eusebius Barnard, near 
Brandywine creek, Chester count}', Pa. He 
remained with Mr. Barnard until he was 
twenty-one, attending the common schools 
for six weeks of each year. After he attained 
his majority he was employed one 3'ear at 
farming in Chester county by James Painter, 
who belonged to the Society of Friends. At 
the end of the year he engaged to go with Mr. 



Amos Houser to Lancaster. Mr. Painter en- 
deavored to persuade Andrew to remain in 
his employ, promising him the same wages 
that Mr. Houser had offered. But the con- 
tract having been made with Mr. Houser, he 
would not break his promise. He remained 
with him in Lancaster county for four years. 

Mr. Sebourn then applied to the foreman 
on the State canal, at Columbia, for employ- 
ment, but was informed that there was no 
position vacant. He would not take no for 
an answer, but went industriously to work 
assisting in unloading and re-shipping, giv- 
ing his time without pay. The foreman see- 
ing his ability and diligence, gave him a 
position of responsibility, which he held for 
six years. For the following ten years he 
was employed by the railroad, then operated 
by the State, between Columbia and Lancas- 
ter. He changed for a short time to the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, but re- 
turned to his former employer and ran the 
same cars to Lancaster. In this employment 
he remained for four years, and then removed 
to Middle Paxton township, located near 
Ellendale Furnace, engaged in general work, 
and remained there four years on the prem- 
ises of the railroad company. He was then 
in Chester county again for six months, after 
which he entered the employ of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company, at Harrisburg, and 
has remained with the company for twenty- 
eight years. 

He bought his present homestead in 1867, 
removed to it the next year and has made it 
his residence to the present time. Mr. Sebourn 
was married, October 14, 1845, to Belinda F., 
daughter of John and Mary French. Of their 
eight children, four are deceased : John Wes- 
ley, born in 1849, died January 1, 1850; 
Franklin Pierce, born in 1854, died February 
13, 1855; William Bishop, born January 20, 
1856, died December 28, 1857 ; Isaac Jeffer- 
son, born January 5, 1858, and died October 
7, 1864. Their living children are: James 
Barnard, born October 9, 1846, enlisted in 
the Union army, served three months, re-en- 
listed in the Fifteenth United States infantry, 
was wounded in front of Atlanta and brought 
home by permit from Governor Curtin ; 
Washington Charles, January 22,1848; Jacob 
Henry, June 3, 1852, and Marv Catherine, 
October 23, 1861, wife of Rev. Ira McDonald, 
of Lancaster county, Pa. 

When Mr. Sebourn resided at Ellendale 
Forge he was largely instrumental in estab- 
lishing the first Sunday-school in Stony 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



v:.7 



Crcek Valley, and became its superintendent. 
When he returned to the valley in 1868 he 
was again superintendent of the school; at 
one time it had one hundred and twenty-five 
pupils. Mr. Sebourn served one year in the 
city council of Harrisburg, Pa. He is a 
Democrat. He and his family are members 
of the Church of God. 

Mr. and Mrs. John French had five chil- 
dren, all of whom are deceased except Mrs. 
Sebourn. 



Shoop, George W., miller, was born at 
Fort Hunter, Susquehanna township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., December 12, 1838. He 
is a son of Samuel and Catherine (Hoover) 
Shoop. Samuel Shoop met his death by 
drowning in the canal, near Dauphin, about 
1S6S; his wife died in 1844. They had 
seven children : John, born September 18, 
1825 ; Mary A., born April 4, 1829, wife of 
George Shatzer ; Catherine, born April 5, 
1832, wife of George Fitting; George W., 
born December 12, 1838; Elizabeth, born 
February 11, 1842, wife of Jacob Rhoads; 
Samuel, born June 10, 1845 ; and Isaac, who 
was drowned in the canal, at Fort Hunter. 

George W. Shoop was about six years of 
age when his mother died. His father kept 
the family together for two years after her 
demise; then the boy, being about eight, 
was placed by his father in the care of John 
C. McAllister, of Fort Hunter, with whom he 
remained about ten years, assisting in work 
during the summer and attending the com- 
mon school in the winter. In 1856 lie en- 
gaged in general work. The ensuing year 
he spent in learning the trade of milling, 
with Jacob Shadle, at the Cameron mills, 
near Harrisburg, and with Mr. Shadle he 
removed to Duncannon, Perry county, and 
spent another year. Then, Mr. Shadle hav- 
ing discontinued business, he spent several 
months with John Shaffer, at Mt. Holly, 
Cumberland county. He was also a short 
time with Harvey < Jarman, on the same 
creek. He was subscqently em ployed for a 
short time by James Reed, near Fort 1 1 unter ; 
then he returned to Mr. Garman, and 
worked until spring, when he again entered 
the employ of Mr. Shadle, who had resumed 
business, near Milltown, < lumberland county. 
For the next year, up to the fall of 1862, lie 
had full charge of John Week's mill. 

On October L6, 1862, Mr. Shoop enlisted 
in company B, One Hundred and Sixty- 



fifth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, Col- 
onel Bruhler and Capt. A. J. Rupp. He 
served nine months and was discharged at 
Gettysburg, July 28, 1863. He took part in 
five [fiercely contested engagements — that 
of the Deserted House, skirmishes on the 
Jamestown Road, White House, Beaver's 
Dam, and Carsville. From the time of Mr. 
Shoop's return from the army until the follow- 
ing spring, he worked again for Mr. Heck, 
and for the ensuing ten months for his 
former employer, Mr. Shaffer, who was 
located opposite to Mr. Heck. In February. 
of 1865, Mr. Shoop rented a mill near "West 
Fairview, Cumberland county, which be- 
longed to Mr. Heck, and managed it on his 
own account for two years. The next year 
he rented the Fort Hunter mills of his 
former guardian, J. C. McAllister. At the 
end of the year he returned to Cumberland 
county, and for another year superintended 
the Eberly mills for Samuel Zechariah and 
George Heck. In the spring of 1869 he 
rented the Stony Creek mill, in Middle Pax- 
town township, of James Reed, and con- 
ducted it for eight years. Then, October 12, 
1877, he purchased the mill, and made ex- 
tensive additions and improvements to it. 
In 1890 he also built the house which is his 
present residence. * 

Mr. Shoop was married, December 1, 1864, 
to Angeline, daughter of Tobias and Sarah 
(Sipe) Moltz, who was born August 30, 1848. 
Four of their eleven children are deceased : 
Katie E. and Annie M., twins, born Septem- 
ber 7, 1873— Katie, died March 11, 1874, 
and Annie, April 15, 1874; Harry F„ born 
May 30,1872, died August 8, 1883; and 
Charles E., born March 2, 1870, died August 
14,1883. Their living children are : George 
W., Jr., born November 24, 1865; Alice M., 
May 28, 1867; Samuel T., December 14, 
1868 : John L., December 24, 1875 ; William 
A., December 26, 1877; Emma A., March 
20, 1881 : ami Sarah A.. August 24, 1885. 

Mr. Shoop has served Middle Paxton 
township as assessor and as tax collector. He 
is a Democrat. The family attend the Pres- 
byterian church. The career of Mr. Shoop, 
begun without material inheritance, charac- 
terized by ability and honesty, resulting in 
a comfortable competence and an untar- 
nished good name, is most honorable, and 
well worthy of a record in the annals of his 
native county. Nor will it detract from the 
interest of this record to make mention of 
the diligence, frugality, wisdom and devo- 



858 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



tion of his wife, which have contributed so 
much to his success. 

The parents of Mrs. Shoop are both de- 
ceased. She lost her mother in 1842, when 
she was four j r ears old. Her father died 
January 7, 1894, aged seventy-four. They 
had four children : Elmira, born in 1844, 
wife of John Costello ; Angeline, Mrs. Shoop; 
Catherine E., born in 1842, wife of Franklin 
F. Jackson, and Thornton, who died at about 
seven years of age. 



Schaffer, Benjamin Franklin, farmer, 
was born in Lower Mahanoy township, 
Northumberland county, Pa., October 10, 
1847. He is a son of Isaac and Hannah 
(Bingaman) Schaffer. Isaac Schaffer was a 
cabinet maker and undertaker, and con- 
ducted a successful business in Lower Ma- 
hanoy township. He was a man of frugal 
habits, energetic, persevering and enterpris- 
ing. Honorable and just in all transactions, 
he was highly esteemed. He died March 
30, 1872, aged forty-seven. His wife was the 
daughter of Nicholas and Mary (Whitmer) 
Bingaman ; she died March 30, 1872, aged 
forty-five. 

Benjamin Franklin Schaffer attended the 
private school of his native township until 
he was nineteen years old. He then re- 
moved with his parents to Halifax township, 
Dauphin countv, where he attended the dis- 
trict school for two winters. He helped his 
father with the farm work during the sum- 
mer, and continued at farming until 1859, 
when he removed with his father to the 
present homestead in Middle Paxton town- 
ship ; there father and son cultivated the 
farm jointlj' until the father's death in 1872. 
Being the only child, Benjamin succeeded 
his father, and has ever since owned and oc- 
cupied the farm. 

On December 23, 1869, Mr. Schaffer mar- 
ried Margaret, daughter of John and Mar- 
garet (Hoffman) Lantz. One of their four 
children has passed away, Lillie Kohra, one 
of twins, born March 4, 1872, and died the 
same day. Their living children are: Laura 
J., survivor of the twins, wife of Charles 
Reed; Mary E., born December 13, 1876, 
and Isaac L., June 5, 1880. 

Mr. Schaffer has served one term as super- 
visor, and is at present assessor of Middle 
Paxton township. He is a Republican. The 
family attend the Evangelical church. 

The mother of Mrs. Schaffer died May 1, 
1853, aged about thirty-four years. Her 



father died February 4, 1888, at aboutseventy- 
two years of age. They had nine children, 
four of whom are deceased : Sarah, Katie, 
Samuel N, and Elizabeth J., wife of Andrew 
Brossel. Their living children are: George 
W., John, Mary, wife of Samuel V. Enders, 
Margaret, and Lydia E., wife of Michael 
Sweigert. Mr. Lantz was again married ; 
his second wife was Elizabeth Phile, by 
whom he had two children, Amanda E., 
died aged four years, and Charles G. 



Frantz, Henry, carpenter and contractor, 
was born in East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 21, 1844. He is 
a son of Henry and Esther (Bates) Frantz, 
both deceased. They had eleven children : 
John, Benjamin, Polly, Elizabeth, Levina, 
Peter, David, Alexander, Caroline, Henry, 
and Benneville. 

Henry Frantz, Jr., was educated in the 
common school of East Hanover township. 
At seventeen years of age he left home and 
enlisted in the Union army, at Camp Curtin, 
Harrisburg, September 2, 1861. He joined 
company D, Forty-sixth regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, and was sent with his regi- 
ment to Washington, D. O, where it was sta- 
tioned along the Potomac river until the 
spring of 1862. The regiment was then sent 
with General Banks' command on an expe- 
dition into the Shenandoah Valley. Young 
Frantz took part in the battles of Winches- 
ter, March 23, 1862; Middletown, Va., May 
28, 1862 ; Winchester, Va., May 26, 1862 ; 
Cedar Mountain, Va., August 9, 1862; Sul- 
phur Springs. Va., August 27,1862; South 
Mountain, Md., September 14, 1862; Antie- 
tam, Md., September 17, 1862 ; Chancellors- 
ville, Va., May 1, 2, 3, 1863 ; Gettysburg, Pa., 
July 1, 2, 3, 1863 ; Resaca, Ga., Mav 15, 1864 ; 
Cassville, Ga., Mav 19, 1864; Dallas, Ga., 
May 25,1864; Pine Knob, Ga., June 9,1864; 
Culp's Farm, Ga., June 22, 1864; Peachtree 
Creek, Ga., July 20, 1864; Atlanta, Ga., Sep- 
tember 6, 1864; Cypress Swamp, Ga., De- 
cember 8, 1864; Savannah, Ga., December 
21, 1864; Chesterfield Court House, S. C, 
March 2,1865; Coon Run, N. C, April 10, 
1865; Avervsborough, N. C, March 14, 1865; 
Bentonville", N. C, March 19, 1865. He was 
wounded while on picket duty near Chester- 
field Court House, S. C, by a gun shot. He 
lost the hearing of his left ear from prox- 
imity to cannonadiug at the battle of Culp's 
Farm, Ga., June 22, 1864. He contracted 
muscular rheumatism by his three days' 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



-.Y.i 



march through swamps and water, from 
which lie never recovered. He was marched 
with his company from Raleigh, N. C, to 
Washington, D. C, where he was discharged 
July 10, 1S65. 

After his discharge from the army Mr. 
Frantz returned to his native township, and 
served an apprenticeship of three years at 
carpentry with John Rhoads, of East Han- 
over township, upon the completion of which 
he went to Harrisburg, and worked there for 
five years as journeyman carpenter. Then, 
returning to East Hanover township, he en- 
gaged in contracting and building on hisown 
account. He became widely known through- 
out the county as a builder. He constructed 
some of the largest and most modern barns 
and residences in the county, especially in 
the borough of Dauphin, among which may 
be mentioned the Dauphin Oar Shops: He 
built a large modern barn for Joseph H. 
Cofrode, Prince William county, Va. He 
erected his own mansion near Dauphin in 
1882. 

Mr. Frantz was married, June G, 18G7, to 
Katie, daughter of Valentine and Elizabeth 
First. One of their children is deceased, 
Anna Laura, born April 1, 1873, died Octo- 
ber 1, 1884, aged eleven years. Their living 
children are: Sherman Tecumseh, born Jan- 
uary 1, 1868, and Harvev Napoleon, October 
7, 1870. Mrs. Frantz died June 24, 1874. 
The second wife of Mr. Frantz, to whom he 
was married December 25, 1877, was Lucj' 
Louisa Lindemuth. They have had four 
children: Joseph Elmer Sheridan, born 
March 7, 1879; Carrie May, July 3, 1880; 
Jennie Daisy, October 8, 1882; Cora Mabel, 
September 26, 1886. Mr. Frantz is a mem- 
ber of PosJ 58, G. A. R., at Harrisburg. He 
is a Republican. The family attend the 
Evangelical church. 

Mrs. First, mother of the first Mrs. Frantz, 
is deceased. Her father is still living. Their 
children were five: Susan. Elizabeth, Katie, 
Annie, and Valentine. 

Mrs. Lindemuth, mother of the present 
Mrs. Frantz, died April 1. 1877, and her 
father in May, 1883. They had eleven chil- 
dren : Reuben, Sabilla, Levina, Daniel, 
Joseph, Emma, Catherine, Alfred, Sarah, 
Lucy Louisa, and Jonathan. 

David and Alexander, brothers of Mr. 
Henry Frantz, served in the same regiment 
with himself. Peter enlisted at Cam]' ( 'urtin, 
Harrisburg, in company E, One Hundred 
and Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania volun- 



teers, as color sergeant. Peter was wounded 
at Dallas, Ga. All served three years and 
all returned to their home. 



Stricker, Albert, farmer, was born in 
Middle Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., at the old homestead, wdiere he now re- 
sides, August 23, 1852. He is a son of Jacob 
and Ellen (Keller) Stricker. Jacob Stricker 
was born November 15, 1815. He was a 
man of strict integrity. He made the " golden 
rule" the motto of his life, and in all private 
and public relations was conscientious and 
exemplary. He enjoyed the esteem of his 
neighbors. He died Januar}' 9, 1885, aged 
seventy-eight or seventy-nine. His wife died 
December 15, 18S0. Three of their four 
children are deceased : Alexander Jackson, 
born June 13, 1839, died March 29, 1842 ; 
Jefferson Monroe, born January 2, 1843, died 
July 21, 1843; Theodore Scott, born June 
17, 1845, accidentally killed in the coal 
mines at Shamokin, in November, 1SS7. 
Their only living child is Albert. 

Albert Stricker attended the public school 
in Middle Paxton township during the win- 
ter, and in summer assisted his father about 
farm work until he was nineteen. He then 
became interested in the farm, and his father 
and he cultivated it jointly until the death 
of the former, January 19, 18S5. Pie then 
succeeded his father and has ever since con- 
tinued farming the homestead. 

Mr. Stricker was married, May 24. 18S7, to 
Clara, daughter of William and Annie 
(Etter) McKissick. The} - have six children: 
William Grant, born September 12. 1S7S : 
Harry Garfield, March 14, 1SS0 : Jacob 
Lewis, August 24, 1SS1 ; Clara Edith, May 
10,1883; Earle Arvine, October 25, 1886; 
and Robert Bayard, April 10, 1892. Mr. 
Stricker is a Republican. The family at- 
tend the Evangelical church. 

The mother of Mrs. Stricker died August 
7, 1865, aged about thirty-nine. Her father 
is still living. They had ten children, five 
of whom are deceased. The survivors are: 
John, born March 15. 1849 : Kate. January 
22, 1853: Clara. May 27. L856; Pomeroy, 
June 1, 1858 ; and Ellsworth. May 20. 1861. 



Snyder, Peter, married Joanna Shipman. 
Jemima B. Snyder, their daughter, was born 
near Sunburv, Northumberland county. Pa. 
She was educated in the public schools of her 
native township, and remained with her 
parents until her marriage. She was married 



860 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



December 1, 1835, to Lot Bergstresser, born 
April 4, 1807. They had eleven children ; 
five are deceased : Joanna, died in infancy ; 
Mary Alice, born March 10, 1845, died No- 
vember 19, 1859; John Clinton, born April 
9, 1861, died March 10, 1862 ; Phoebe Ellen, 
wife of Samuel B. Bishoff, born June 19, 
1850 ; Henry Clay, born December 4, 1838, 
supposed to have died in Arizona. The 
other children are : Peter S., born November 
2, 1836; Jane, August 8, 1842; Emeline, 
wife of Charles Swab, December 24, 1847 , 
Clara, December 25, 1852 ; Edwin Lot, April 
7, 1855; and Charles M., June 25, 1858. 

Peter S., was graduated from Lafayette Col- 
lege, Easton, Pa. He enlisted in company I, 
One Hundred and Seventy-seventh regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, and served nine 
months, after which he re-enlisted and served 
until the close of the war. He is now prin- 
cipal of the public schools at Trevortou, 
Northumberland count}', Pa. He served 
one term as assemblyman, in 1865. Charles 
M. also is a graduate of Lafayette College. He 
is the editor, and one of the firm of Dow, 
Jones & Co., proprietors of the Wall Street 
Journal, New York. Edward L. is in mer- 
cantile business at Lykens, Pa. 

Mr. Bergstresser was a millwright, and was 
also extensively engaged in farming. He 
was a prominent citizen, of excellent reputa- 
tion. In 1855 he served one term as assem- 
blyman. Mr. Bergstresser was a Republican. 
He died October 26, 1860. 

Mrs. Bergstresser remained a widow until 
December 4, 1863, when she was married to 
James W. Griffith. They had no children. 
Mr. Griffith had been previously married, 
and had a family of sons and daughters by 
his first wife. He was a carpenter, extensively 
engaged in building and contracting. Mr. 
Griffith was a justice of the peace at Dauphin 
for about thirty years, and was universally 
regarded as a just man and a capable and 
reliable officer. He was a Republican. He 
died September 28, 1878, aged about seventy- 
six years. The family are members of the 
Presbyterian church. 

Bayard, Henry M., was born in 1812. 
He is a son of James A. and Ann (Bassett) 
Bayard. Hon. Richard Bassett, the mater- 
nal grandfather of Henry M. Bayard, son of 
Michael Bassett and Judith Herman, of Bo- 
hemia Manor, was born in 1735 and died in 
1815. He was a member of the executive 



council of Delaware from 1776 to 1783, and 
served in the Continental army. He was a 
delegate to the Annapolis Convention in 
1785, and to the convention which formed 
the Constitution of the United States, to 
which he set his hand, and then, hastening 
home, he induced Delaware promptl} 7 , and 
in advance of all other States, to ratify it. 
He was the first Senator in Congress from 
the State of Delaware, and later became 
Governor of the State. Later in life he re- 
tired to the old family homestead, Bohemia 
Manor, Md., where he died, leaving the estate 
to his only daughter, Ann, wife of Hon. 
James A. Bayard. Governor Bassett mar- 
ried Miss Ann Ennells, of Dorchester, Md. 
James A. Bayard, father of Henry M. 
Bayard, was born July 128, 1767, and died 
August 6, 1815. He was a son of Dr. James 
and Ann (Hodge) Bayard, and was an emi- 
nent lawyer and politician. His classical 
education was completed at Princeton Col- 
lege in 1784. He studied law, and on his 
admission to the bar settled in the State of 
Delaware, where he soon acquired a high 
reputation and obtained a large practice. A 
few years after he reached his majority he 
served as representative from Delaware in 
Congress, and soon distinguished himself as 
an able statesman. He was elected to the 
United States Senate in 1812. He strenu- 
ously opposed the declaration of war with 
Great Britain. President Madison selected 
hiin as one of the commissioners to treat for 
peace under the proposed mediation of Em- 
peror Alexander, of Russia, and he was 
largely instrumental in consummating the- 
treaty of Ghent. He was subsequently ap 
pointed envoy of the United States Govern 
ment to the Court of St. Petersbarg. Hon 
Henry Clay, on his arrival in New York 
after the signing of the treaty of Ghent, in 
company with Hon. Albert Gallatin, learn- 
ing of the death of James A. Bayard, was 
deeply affected by the mournful intelligence 
and lamented that he should never again 
have the pleasure of seeing that distin- 
guished statesman. At the same time he 
expressed his high estimate of the important 
services rendered to the country during 
their mission by Mr. Bayard, averring it as 
his firm belief that but for the able and con- 
ciliatory mediation of Mr. Bayard between 
the commissioners of the respective govern- 
ments no such treaty could have been fixed 
upon. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



861 



From the earliest history of the country 
the Bayard family has been highly distin- 
guished, and every generation has furnished 
celebrated leaders and statesmen. Thomas 
F. Bayard, nephew of Henry M. Bayard, is 
at present the representative of the United 
States Government at the Court of St. James. 

Henry M. Bayard died in August, 1886, 
aged about seventy-four. He married 
Emma, daughter of John and Mary Shipley 
Dixon ; his wife is still living. They had 
nine children : Anne C, widow of John 
Johnstone, now residing in Australia; Ed- 
ward ; James A.; Mary S.; Catherine L.; 
Elizabeth L., wife of Dr. J. N. Fitzmathew ; 
Lucy A., wife of C. A. Messiter, Esq., now 
deceased ; Constance, and Joseph S. 
1 Edward Bayard, son of Henry M. and 
Emma (Dixon) Bayard, was born at the 
homestead at Victoria Furnace, in Clark's 
Valley, September 10, 1840. He was in- 
structed in private schools until he was six- 
teen years old, and completed his education 
by a four years' course in a Philadelphia col- 
lege under Prof. Saunders. He then re- 
turned home and took charge of his father's 
business of farming and cutting lumber, in 
which he was engaged until about 1873. He 
then began manufacturing lumberand barrel 
staves. In 18S2 he associated himself with 
the business interests of the family, establish- 
ing the firm of Bayard & Co., and has since 
carried on a large farming and lumber man- 
ufacturing business. 

Mr. Bayard was married, December 29, 
1874, to Ella, daughter of Thomas and 
Elizabeth Steers, of Virginia. Of their six 
children, one is deceased, Henry, who was 
born September 15, 18S4. Their other chil- 
dren are: James Ashton, born September 
25, 1875 ; Charles M., December .22, 1S77 ; 
Lucy Ashton, August 10, 1879; Constance 
G., October 16, 1881 ; Richard Bassett, Feb- 
ruary 17, 1888. 

Joseph S. Bayard, son of Henry M and 
Emma (Dixon) Bayard, was also born at the 
homestead at Victoria Furnace, November 14, 
1853. He received his elementary education 
in private schools, and was then four years at 
Mrs. Crawford's Academy, mar Frankford, 
Philadelphia. He then returned to the old 
homestead and has been associated with the 
extensive business interests of the family to 
the present time. Both brothers, I'd ward 
and Joseph S., are Democrats. They are 
members of the Episcopal church. 



Cutchall, Richard, farmer, was born in 
Huntingdon county, Pa., October 25, L836. 
He is a son of "William and Hannah (Lane) 
Cutchall. William Cutchall was born in 
1800, and died at the age of seventy-six ; 
Mrs. Cutchall died aged fifty-four. They 
had ten children, of whom four are deceased: 
Jacob, George Wasbingtor, John L., and 
Dutton. Their living children are: Wilson: 
William; Richard ; Mary, wife of Isaac Mad- 
den ; Agnes, wife of Martin Mathias, and 
Eliza, wife of Simon Rohrer. 

Richard Cutchall was educated in his na- 
tive county. At ten years of age he was 
already occupied about farming, working 
during the summer and attending school 
during the winter months. After he was 
fourteen he was engaged in various kinds of 
work, principally on the farm ; he was thus 
employed until 1861, when the call came for 
volunteers, and he enlisted in the United 
States army. His first enlistment was at 
Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, in company I, 
Fourteenth regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, for four months. During his term of 
service he was in several severe skirmishes 
in Virginia. He was mustered out at Car- 
lisle, Pa., returned to his home in Hunting- 
don county, and remained a short time. He 
re-enlisted September 20, 1861, in company 
B,One Hundred and Tenth regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers. He took part in twenty- 
two battles, among which were Fredericks- 
burg, Laurel Hill,Spotlsylvania Court House, 
the Wilderness, South Mountain, the second 
Bull Run, Port Republic. Gaines' Mills, and 
Gettysburg. He was discharged at Harris- 
burg June 13, 1865, and returned to his na- 
tive county. He afterwards removed to 
Middle Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
and was variously employed until his mar- 
riage, when he engaged in farming, and has 
ever since pursued the same calling. 

Mr. Cutchall was married, June 23, L867, 
to Barbara Wynn. widow of Webster Wynn. 
They had one child, Lizzie D., wife of Will- 
iam F. Beam. Mr. Cutchall is neutral in 
polities. The family attend the Evangelical 
church. 

Mrs. Cutchall was married to her first hus- 
band, Webster Wynn, January 17, L854. 
They had four children, two of whom are 
deceased : Maria, wife of Samuel Brenne- 
man, and Fanny, who died at the age of 
fifteen. Their living children are: Daniel 
Webster ami Zachary Taylor. Mrs. Cutchall 



862 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



was born in Wurtemberg, Germany. She 
came to this country with her parents in 
1833. They located in Lancaster county, 
removed to Juniata county, returned to Lan- 
caster county, and finally settled in Middle 
Paxton township, Dauphin county. In 1851 
the parents removed to Armstrong Valley, 
where they died. They had ten children, 
two of whom died in childhood. 

Webster Wynn, the first husband of Mrs. 
Cutchall, was a highly respected citizen. He 
served one three years' term as director of 
the poor of Dauphin county. He was cap- 
tain of a militia company at Gratztown. He 
was an ardent supporter of Henry Clay when 
he ran for the presidency in 1844. He was 
at one time the only Whig in Middle Pax- 
ton township, but through his influence the 
party rapidly increased in number. The 
first wife of Mr. Wynn was Fanny Boll, by 
whom he had six children : Louisa, Annie, 
Leander, Jackson, William and Henry, the 
last two twins. The parents of Mr. Wynn 
established the homestead at an early date. 
His father, Josiah Wynn, was a soldier in the 
war of 1812, whose widow, Susanna Wynn, 
drew a pension. She died aged about ninety- 
five. 



Baker, John J., farmer, was born in Hali- 
fax township, Dauphin county, Pa., October 
18, 1848; son of Jacob and Mary (Chubb) 
Baker. Jacob Baker was an enterprising and 
successful farmer of Halifax township. He 
was honorable and substantial and main- 
tained a high social standing. He and his wife, 
Mary Chubb, are both deceased. They had 
eleven children, one of whom died in in- 
fancy. Their living children are: Susanna, 
wife of Peter Minnick ; Sarah, wife of Joseph 
Dempsey ; Isaac ; Margaret, widow of Peter 
Hetrick ; Mary, wife of George Jury; Martha, 
wife of William Bowerman ; John J.; Daniel ; 
Ellen, wife of John Kines, and Henry, the 
eldest. 

John J. Baker was educated in the public 
schools of his native township. He could 
not pursue a continuous course in the schools 
because his help was required on the farm 
in the working season. At the age of twenty- 
one he engaged in farm work, and began 
farming on his own account when he was 
twenty-seven. In 1892 he removed to Dau- 
phin borough, where he has since had his 
residence. 

Mr. Baker was married, December 10, 
1S74, to Sarah North, daughter of John and 



Mary Gable North Hammer. Of their five 
children one is deceased, John Truman, born 
October 2, 1885, died February 6, 1893. 
Their living children are : Harlow K., born 
Mav 30, 1875 ; Ida M., December 9, 1877 ; 
Miiia B., June 9, 1883 ; Minzie N., October 
24, 1887. Mr. Baker is a Republican. The 
family attend the Evangelical church. The 
parents of Mrs. Baker are deceased. Three 
of their nine children are also deceased : 
John, Jacob, and Susan, Mrs. Louis Noll. 
The survivors are : Margaret, Mrs. William 
Richard; Henry; Israel ; Samuel ; Sarah, 
Mrs. Baker, and Amos. 



Simmons, Robert Alonzo, builder and 
contractor, was born in Clark's Valley, Mid- 
dle Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 16, 1846. He is a son of Robert and 
Priscilla Amelia (Bricker) Simmons. Robert 
Simmons, grandfather of Robert A., was a 
resident of Middle Paxton township. He 
married Sarah Ward. Their children are : 
Washington, Mary J., John Henry, Matilda, 
Sarah, and Robert, father of Robert A. Mr. 
Simmons' maternal grandfather was Henry 
Bricker, who married Mary Firestein. Their 
children are: John, Priscilla, Amelia, Har- 
riet, Jane, Franklin, and Albert. The par- 
ents of Robert A. Simmons had six chil- 
dren : Robert Alonzo, Peter S. McCullough, 
Sarah Olivia, wife of David Umberger, 
John Henry, George Washington, and Pris- 
cilla Amelia, wife of James Baxter. The 
mother died May 5, 1892. The father is still 
living. 

Robert Alonzo Simmons received his pri- 
mary education in the public schools of his 
native township, which he attended at such 
times as he could be spared from farm work. 
At the age of fifteen he set out to earn his 
own livelihood. The business career of Mr. 
Simmons can be recorded in a brief space 
and in a short statement of facts and dates. 
In 1861 he turned from the scene of his 
youth, the sports, the schooling and the farm 
labor and faced the world to seek employ- 
ment, training and a vocation for life. For 
the first five years he is with the Keystone 
Bridge Company, beginning as an appren- 
tice and ending as a skilled workman in the 
art of bridge building. For the next four 
years he is with J. H. Coffrode & Co., of 
Philadelphia, as general foreman. The next 
five years he is with Clark, Reeves & Co., of 
the same city, as foreman of structural work; 
and for the next twelve years he is with the 

















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/ 



CT 



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etTTUvhti. c/er- 



< r jff*-o-r£eArf-i 




o4. & (^Xa 




J3 



CA^ ^^tZ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



-r,.-, 



Phoenix Bridge Company, of Phcenixville, 
Pa., as general superintendent of construction. 
And then he is established in business for 
himself. This is his career in its briefest state- 
ment. By these few steps the modest farm- 
er's boy rose to one of the most honorable 
positions held by an American mechanic. 
It is well to contemplate it in its brevity. 
Its substantial and enduring monuments dot 
the continent. Mr. Simmons took part in 
the erection of the principal iron structures 
west of Pittsburgh, at Kansas City, at St. 
Louis, at Cincinnati, the structures on the 
railroad from Milton to Williamsport, Pa., 
the Bound Brook railroad, the South street 
to Penrose Ferry bridge at Philadelphia, and 
the bridge across the Mississippi at Louis- 
iana, Mo. 

Mr. Simmons was one of the first success- 
ful contractors in building elevated railways. 
The great Kinzura Viaduct, which spans the 
Kinzura Valley, thirteen miles south of 
Bradford, McKean county, Pa., on the New 
York, Lake Erie and Western railroad, is 
one of the works erected under his superin- 
tendence and is worthy of a more detailed 
description. It is 2,052 feet long and at the 
bottom of the valley it is 302 feet high, be- 
ing the highest railroad bridge in the world. 
The famous truss bridge at Cincinnati, with 
its 550 feet span, is another structure which 
be superintended. He bad charge of the 
bridges on the West Shore railroad, and also 
of many large bridges in Canada and South 
America. Since 1888 Mr. Simmons has been 
in business for himself. He erected the 
large bridge over the Potomac river at Will- 
iamsport, Md., and the bridge for the New 
Jersey Steel and Iron Company in Kentucky. 
Mr. Simmons has erected some of the most 
difficult structures in this country ; among 
these are the famous bridges on the Pomeroy 
and Delaware railroad, the Alexandria and 
Fredericksburg railroad, the Girard Avenue 
and Sixth Street bridges, Philadelphia, the 
Greenbush and Roundout bridges in New 
York, and numerous other important rail- 
road bridges in this country and in Cuba 
and South America. 

Mr. Simmons has endured the hardships 
and privations and exposure incident to the 
life and work of a bridge builder, the severest 
in his experience being at Quantico, Va., 
driving piles along the Potomac river, which 
can never be forgotten. The accomplish- 
ment of more important and difficult work 
with better success than any other builder 
55 



is the title to prominence which must be con- 
ceded to him. The highest compliment that 

can be paid to his skill and fidelity is to 
note that his work has been done with fewer 
fatal accidents than that of any other builder 
who has executed as much dangerous and 
difficult construction. He is familiarly 
known among builders by the homely cog- 
nomen of " Pop." The name is a tribute to 
his good heart and to his prominence as a 
master builder. In his success and celebrity 
Mr. Simmons has not lost sight of his native 
place, which he delights to honor. He al- 
ways gives a Dauphin man the first chance 
for employment. The annals of his native 
county would be incomplete without the 
record of his life and works, which are an 
enduring monument to American skill. 

Mr. Simmons was married, Februarj'- 20, 
1870, to Martha L., daughter of Benjamin 
and Catherine (Books) Leaman. They have 
two children : Harvey J., born November 
12, 1871, and Bertha, born November 12, 
1873. Mr. Simmons is a member of Lodge 
No. 75, F. & A. M.; Chapter No. 198. R. A. 
M.; Council No. 168, and Jerusalem Com- 
mandery, No. 15, K. T., at Phcenixville. 
He is a member in good standing in Paxton 
Lodge, No. G21, I. O. O. F. He is a Repub- 
lican. The family attend the Lutheran 
church. 

Mr. Leaman, father of Mrs. Simmons, died 
in August, 1874, aged about sixty-four years. 
Her mother died in February, 1891. They 
had eight children, two of whom are de- 
ceased, one who died in infancy, and Na- 
thaniel, who died aged about forty years. 
The survivors are: John ; Mary, wife of 
George Langsdorf Free; Martha L., Mrs. 
Simmons ; Joseph, and Albert. 



Hocker, John P., farmer, was born in 
Clark's Valley, Middle Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 1G. 1837. He 
is a son of Peter and Nancy (Welpmer) 
Hocker. Peter Hocker was born February 
24, 1801. He was a prominent and honored 
citizen; was extensively interested in farm- 
ing, and also bad charge of the Peters' Moun- 
tain Inn. He served several terms as conn ty 
commissioner of Dauphin county, and a num- 
ber of terms as school director. He con- 
tributed liberally to the establishment and 
support of churches at Dauphin and in the 
vicinity. He was a Democrat. He died De- 
eember 17, 18G5 ; his wife died February JO, 
1877, aged sixty-eight years, one month and 



866 



Bl GRA PHICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



twenty -six days. They had nine children : 
Susan, wife of Jacob Beam; Martin; Peter; 
Margaret A., wife of Benjamin Meyers ; John 
P.; Catherine, wife of Jonathan Fox ; George 
W.; Jacob, and Emeline, wife of Martin 
Koons. 

John P. Hocker in his early boyhood at- 
tended private schools; at twelve years of 
age he attended the district school. At seven- 
teen he left school and worked on his father's 
farm until he was twenty-five. He enlisted 
at Camp Simmons, Harrisburg, October 16, 
1862, in company K, One Hundred and 
Seventy-third regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, under Capt. C. A. Harper and Colonel 
Nagle. He was discharged at Harrisburg, 
August 18, 1863. He returned home in ill 
health and cultivated the homestead farm 
until 1865. His father having been killed 
at this time by the running away of a team 
of horses, Mr. John Hocker succeeded to the 
management of the farm, which he conducted 
for one year. He then removed to the neigh- 
borhood of Zion church, where he lived and 
was employed for a year and a half. On 
January 14, 1869, he bought the homestead 
where he has since resided. 

Mr. Hocker was married, March 24, 1861, 
to Mary Ann Ferree. Of their fourteen chil- 
dren, four are deceased : Mary Jane, born 
February 14, 1862, died March 20, 1863; 
George Williams, born April 29, 1864, died 
April 19, 1866 ; Charles Cleveland, born 
January 26, 1885, died March 20, 1885 ; Car- 
rie Emma, born August 12, 1882, died Sep- 
tember 29, 1893. Their living children are : 
John Peter, born July 24, 1865 ; Julia Ann, 
April 6, 1867, wife of John E. Bickel ; Ophe- 
lia, April 2, 1869 ; Catherine Elizabeth, Au- 
gust 15, 1871, wife of Theodore A. McCarty; 
James Martin, June 23, 1873 ; Alexander 
Harvey, September 16, 1875 ; Agnes Gertrude, 
August 19, 1877 ; Sarah Ellen, August 20, 
1879; Martha Washington, February 22, 
1886 ; and Maud Ethel, March 15, 1889. Mr. 
Hocker is neutral in politics. He has served 
two terms as supervisor of Middle Paxton 
township. The family attend the Lutheran 
church. 

The mother of Mrs. Hocker died in Decem- 
ber, 1866 ; her father in August, 1878. They 
had eight children : Leah Jane, wife of George 
Hocker; Mary Ann, Mrs. John Hocker; Joel; 
Jefferson ; Elizabeth, wife of Zachariah 
Knapp ; Agnes, wife of James Duncan ; and 
Ellen, wife of John Arrison. 



Clemson, L. W., was born in Watts town- 
ship, Perry county, Pa., July 23, 1826. He 
is a son of Leonard and Mary (Bechaman) 
Clemson. Joshua Clemson, grandfather of 
L. W. Clemson, was a major in the war of 
1812. He was at York, Pa., when General 
Ross was shot near Baltimore. Leonard 
Clemson, father of L. W., was born in Lan- 
caster county, Pa., on " Hallow Eve," 1800. 
He was energetic and persevering. He drove 
for his father, who ran a line of teams from 
Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. When the State 
Capital was removed he hauled the first six- 
horse wagon load of State records from Phila- 
delphia to Harrisburg. He died July 23, 
1892, being run down by a freight train in 
Halifax. His wife was a daughter of Robert 
Bechaman ; she died aged about seventy -five 
years. They had ten children : L. W.; Lydia 
Ann, wife of Alexander Lingle ; Maria 
Louisa, widow of John Brubaker; Alfred 
Buchanan ; Amos ; Jemima Jane ; Mary ; 
Laura Cecilia, wife of John Metzinger ; 
Charilla Jacevis, and one infant, not yet 
named. 

L. W. Clemson received his early educa- 
tion in the private schools of his native 
township. At twelve years of age he went 
with his parents to Dauphin county, and at- 
tended the public schools until he was eigh- 
teen. From that time until he reached his 
twenty-sixth year he assisted his father on 
his farm on Clemson's Island, opposite Hali- 
fax. He was afterwards engaged in boating 
on the Pennsylvania canal, between Belle- 
fonte and Philadelphia, on his own account, 
until the autumn of 1859. In 1860 his 
father purchased the present homestead, 
which L. W. Clemson cultivated on his own 
account until his father's death in 1892. 
Succeeding his father in the ownership of 
the place, he has occupied it since that date. 
Mr. Clemson was married to Mary, daughter 
of Daniel and Margaret Livingston. The 
grandfather of Daniel Livingston was one of 
the signers of the Declaration of Independ- 
ence. Mr. and Mrs. Clemson had twin chil- 
dren, Harry and Li Hie Elizabeth, born Sep- 
tember 24, 1852. Mrs. Clemson died Feb- 
ruary 9, 1858, aged thirty years, five months 
and twenty-six days. 

On December 29, 1859, Mr. Clemson mar- 
ried his second wife, Mary Jane, daughter of 
John G. and Eliza (Hampton) Nowvirck. Of 
their three children two are deceased : Leon- 
ard Alfred, born April 30,- 1861, died March 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



867 



11,1860, and Emma Cecilia, born Septem- 
ber 30, 1802, died April -4, 1S72. Their sur- 
viving child is Maggie May, born May 24, 
1SG9 ; married, February 13, 1890, to Charles 
Bricker, one of the five children of John and 
Amanda (Stout) Bricker; has had two chil- 
dren, Mamie Edna, born September 5, 1890, 
died January 8, 1894, and John Wesley, born 
August 3, 1894. 

Mr. Clemson had been an earnest and ac- 
tive worker for the welfare of Dauphin 
county. He is a successful business man 
and a prominent citizen. His feliow-citizens 
have repeatedly honored him by calling him 
to places of public service. He has served 
two consecutive terms as auditor, and two 
as director of the poor of Dauphin county; 
also one term as supervisor of Middle Pax- 
ton township. Mr. Clemson is a Republi- 
can. The family attend the Presbyterian 
church. 

The parents of the present Mrs. Clemson 
had six children: Louis; John; William; 
Mary Jane, who is Mrs. Clemson ; Elias, and 
Emma. Mr. Nowvirck, her father, died in 
January, 1852, aged fifty-seven ; her mother 
died in October, 1858, aged about forty- 
nine years. 



Shaffner Aaron, farmer, was born in 
Halifax township, Dauphin county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 7, 1847. He is a son of Philip and 
Mary (Hov) Shaffner. Philip Shaffner was 
born October 20, 1809, and died October 21, 
1894 ; Mrs. Shaffner died November 20, 1887, 
aged seventy-five years, ten months and 
thirteen days. Of their ten children, four 
died in infancy, and Henrv died December 
17, 1880. Their other children are: Philip 
II.; William H.; Susan, wife of William 
Sheetz; Aaron, and Sarah, wife of James 
Lyter. 

Aaron Shaffner was a pupil in the common 
schools of his native township until lie was 
ten years old. His parents then removing 
to Middle Paxton township, he attended the 
district schools there during the winter until 
he was twenty. He was then regularly em- 
ployed by his father in farm work ; this 
arrangement continued for six years, and 
then he rented the farm of his father, and 
cultivated it on his own account, He con- 
tinued to be a renter on the homestead until 
September, 1895, when he bought the farm of 
his father's heirs. 

Mr. Shaffner was married, July 0, 1873, 
to Anna Rebecca, daughter of John and 



Mary (Reicht) Bowman. They had two 
children, one who died in infancy, and Harry 
B., born September 5, 1877. Mr. Shaffner 
belongs to the Junior Order United American 
Mechanics. He is a Republican. The family 
attend the Evangelical church. 

Mrs. Bowman, Mrs. Shaffner's mother, died 
November 30, 1877, aged forty-nine years, 
three months and eighteen days. Her father 
died March 28, 1894, aged sixty-three years 
and one month. Four of their teu children 
are deceased : John, died aged four months; 
Jennie, aged two years and twenty days ; 
Uriah, aged six months ; and one infant died 
unnamed. Their living children are: Anna 
Rebecca, Mrs. Shaffner; Sarah E., wife of 
Jacob Conrad; Henry R.; William; Margaret 
A., wife of Peter Witman: and Cora, wife of 
James Nelson. 

The brothers of Mr. Shaffner were in the 
United States army. William enlisted in 
company H, Fourth regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, re-enlisted in the regular arm}'' 
and served three years more. Philip en- 
listed at Harrisburg in a cavalry regiment, 
and served three years. Henry enlisted at 
Harrisburg, and served less than one year. 



Meyers, Benjamin, retired farmer, was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., October 11, 
1S34. He is a son of Christian and Eliza- 
beth (Cassel) Meyers. His father died in 
1858, aged about sixty-four, and his mother 
in 1861, aged about sixty-seven years. They 
had fifteen children: John; Isaac; Katie, 
wife of John Hess; Christian: Annie, wife 
of George Look ; Daniel ; Fannie, wife of 
Peter Fox; Abraham; Benjamin; Sarah 
Jane, wife of Elias Brooks: Elias: Hetty, 
wife of Jonas Brooks ; and three who died in 
infancy. 

Benjamin Meyers, at four years of age, 
went with his parents to Lower Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, where he at- 
tended the public school in winter and as- 
sisted his father on the farm during the busy 
season until he was twenty-two. He then 
began farming for himself, renting his 
father's farm for two years and afterwards 
for one year another farm nearby. In ls.V.i 
he removed to Clark's Valley, Middle Paxton 
township, and rented a farm from Ids father- 
in-law for five years. In the spring of 1 >" *•• > 
he purchased the homestead from his father 
and farmed it for ten years. In 1S76 he 
bought an additional tract of land near the 
old Ilocker Tavern, upon which he built a 



868 



BIO GRA PRIG A L ENCYGL OPEDIA 



new house and barn, and which was his resi- 
dence until 1889, when he relinquished 
farming and removed to his present home. 

Mr. Meyers was married, October 9, 1856, 
to Anna, daughter of Peter and Nancy 
(Welpman) Hocker, both deceased. They 
have had seven children : James W., born 
December 9, 1871, died May 8, 1872 ; Sarah 
Jane, born August 22, 1859, wife of F. H. 
Sponsler; Mary Ellen, August 28, 1862, wife 
of George W. Simmons ; Peter, September 
17, 1864; John, August 2, 1866; Alfred 
Stephen, October 25, 1859; and Samuel, 
April 17, 1873. 

By his efficient business methods, his care- 
ful manner of living and the help of his 
good wife, Mr. Meyers has accumulated an 
ample competence. Freed from the cares 
and burdens of business he may now enjoy 
the afternoon of life in his quiet home. Mr. 
Meyers has served the public in several 
township offices. He was supervisor for four 
years, school director twelve years, and tax 
collector and assessor four years. His poli- 
tics are Democratic. The family attend the 
Lutheran church. 



Garman, Isaac, farmer, was born near the 
homestead, in Middle Paxtou township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., July 26, 1829. He is a son 
of Casper and Elizabeth (Bogner) Garman. 
His grandfather, Jacob Bogner, served in the 
Revolutionary army. He died at the age of 
one hundred years and six months. Casper 
Garman, father of Isaac Garman, died June 
18, 1877, aged eighty-five years, five months 
and eighteen days. His mother died March 
5, 1872, aged seventy-seven years, five months 
and three days. They had seven children : 
Lucy, Zacharias, Tobias, Isaac ; Eleanor, 
wife of John Umberger ; Mary, wife of Will- 
iam Coffrode, and Catherine, wife of Jacob 
Bogner. 

Isaac Garman attended the common 
schools of his township during the winter, 
and assisted his father in farm work during 
the summer until he was sixteen. He re- 
mained on the farm with his father until he 
was twenty-four ; at this age he rented and 
cultivated the old Goss farm for four years 
on his own account. He next spent two 
years on the old Peter Hocker farm, and 
moved • thence to Susquehanna township, 
where he farmed for three years, and subse- 
quently worked General Ott's farm for two 
years. His next removal was to a farm near 
Rockville, which he occupied three years. 



He then rented Dr. Heck's farm in Middle 
Paxton township, and cultivated it eight 
years. In the spring of 1876 he purchased 
his present homestead, where he has been 
engaged in farming up to the present time. 
He has served three consecutive terms as 
supervisor in Middle Paxton township, and 
also served as judge of elections. He is a 
Democrat. 

Mr. Garman was married, November 18, 
1855, to Julienne, daughter of David and 
Catherine (Geiger) Unger. Of their nine 
children four are deceased : Annie Kate, 
born September 1, 1856, died April 24,1864 ; 
Johnny, born April 9, 1871, died Mav 8, 
1873 ; Stella May, born February 22, 1874, 
died August 25, 1874, and Isaac C, born 
February 11, 1865, died June 16, 1892. He 
was temporarily engaged as foreman for a 
section of the bridge in process of building 
over the Licking river at Covington, Ky., 
when a portion of the structure collapsed, 
carrying him and thirtj'-seven other work- 
men to sudden death. Their living children 
are : Elwood Purdy, born February 4, 1858 ; 
Laura E., July 2, 1860, wife of John Lebo ; 
David Unger, June 25, 1868; Eugene M., 
July 27, i875, and Lulu F., December 7, 
1879. The family attend the Evangelical 
church. 

The father of Mrs. Garman died in 1840, 
aged about thirty-five years. Her mother 
was born March 14, 1811, and died Decem- 
ber 27, 1885, aged seventy-four years, nine 
months and twelve days. 



Wilvert, Henry E., farmer, was born in 
Powell's Valley, Halifax township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., November 6, 1862. He is .the 
son of Henry M. and Susan (Steel) Wilvert. 
His grandfather, John Wilvert, was a con- 
tractor in stone work. He built the stone 
piers of the old Dauphin bridge across the 
Susquehanna river; he also built those of 
the bridge over the Susquehanna at Clark's 
Ferry. On this latter job he sustained con- 
siderable 'financial loss. He was a man 
whose word was as good as a bond. He 
completed his contract at the expense of his 
estate, which, was the result of the labors of 
a lifetime. His son, Henry M. Wilvert, Sr., 
was a stonemason. He died December 27, 
1876, aged about fortv-eight. His'wife died 
July 3, 1894. Their children were : William 
J., Daniel Theodore, John Albert, and 
Henry M. 

Henry M. Wilvert, Jr., went to the public 



DA UPIIIN COUNTY. 



869 



schools at Matamoras, Halifax township, dur- 
ing the winter, until he was eighteen years 
old, and worked on the farm in summer. 
He was employed at various kinds of work 
until he became of age. He then took 
up farming on his own account, on the 
old Geiger homestead, Middle Paxton 
township. He purchased the homestead in 
the autumn of 1883, and has occupied it 
since that time as his home. Mr. Wilvert 
was married, December 23, 1883, to Isimiah 
M., daughter of William and Eleanor (Felty) 
Geiger. They have no children. Mr. Wil- 
vert is a Republican. The family attend 
the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Christian Geiger, grandfather of Mrs. Wil- 
vert, came from Lancaster county and settled 
in Middle Paxton township. Her father, 
William Geiger, was born in that township, 
near the old homestead, which he bought 
after his mother's death. He was born Sep- 
tember 29, 1815, and died March 20, 1888. His 
wife was born January 27, 1828, and died 
July 7, 1867. They had seven children : 
Daniel W., died in infancy; John Christian, 
born May 27, 1852 ; Mary Alice, November 
3, 1S53, wife of Michael Crisswell ; Caroline 
E., July 3, 1855, wife of George W. Reed ; 
Solomon F., August 22, 1857 ; Isimiah M., 
Mrs. Wilvert, December 15, 1S59, and Will- 
iam C, March 7, 1862. 



Welker, Joshua, farmer, was born in 
Northumberland county, Pa., October 30, 
1837. He is a son of Jonas and Sarah 
(Kocher) Welker. His father was born Oc- 
tober 16, 1809, and di#d February 16, 1888. 
His mother was the daughter of Peter 
Kocher. She died aged about sixty-four 
years. They had thirteen children : Will- 
iam, Joshua, Amanda, Joel, Isaac, Sarah, 
John, Levi, Eli, Jonas, who died in child- 
hood, and three others who are deceased. 

Joshua Welker attended a private school 
in an old log school house in Northumber- 
land county, until lie was twelve years old, 
when his father removed to Lyk'ens Valley, 
Dauphin county, in 1849 or L850. lie at- 
tended the district schopls'ili Washington 
township four or five years, .when the fam- 
ily removed to Jefferson township. There 
lie continued attending school in the winter 
months until he was twenty years of age, 
assisting his fathei during the busy season 
on the farm. At twenty years of age he 



rented Burlington's saw mill, Jefferson town- 
ship, and began business for himself, cutting 
lumber for the farmers and for merchant 
trade. He continued this business until 
June, 1863. On this date he enlisted at 
Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, in company C, 
Thirty-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, Capt. Dr. Witman, of Halifax, and was 
sent to Gettysburg, where he was stricken 
down with typhoid fever, and was for some 
time in the army hospital. He returned 
home, but again enlisted at Harrisburg. Au- 
gust 23, 1864, in company F, Two Hun- 
dredth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. 
He was in the ranks, but was promoted to 
corporal in November, 1864, for meritorious 
services and bravery while on picket duty 
near Dutch Gap. He was in a number of 
hotly contested engagements, and at the 
storming of Petersburg. He was discharged 
at Alexandria, Va., May 30, 1865. His 
health was seriously impaired by exposure. 
On his return Mr. Welker engaged in farm- 
ing on his own account in Jefferson town- 
ship, and continued there until 1872, when 
he rented the old Greenawalt farm, Middle 
Paxton township, which he has cultivated 
up to the present time. 

Mr. Welker was married, June 12, 1S56, 
to Catherine Spayd, daughter of John and 
Elizabeth (Spotts) Spayd. She was born in 
Northumberland county, Pa., May IS, 1834. 
They have ten children ; five are deceased : 
one died in infancy; Elizabeth, born No- 
vember 19,1859; John Henry, born May 
15, 1S62 ; Minnie Agnes, born August 2S, 
1869 ; Edward J., born July 7, 1874. Their 
living children are : Sarah Jane, wife of Au- 
gust Meals ; Clara P., wife of John Shoop ; 
Ellen, December 7, 1866, wife of Horace W. 
I'.ailets ; Charles F., and George H., born 
August 11, 1876. Mr. Welker is earnest 
and active in all measures intended to pro- 
mote the welfare of the community. He 
has been superintendent of the Sunday- 
school at Red Hill for many years. Politi- 
cally he is a Republican. The family at- 
tend the Lutheran and Reformed churches. 
The parents of Mrs. Welker are both de- 
ceased. Her father died aged about sixty- 
four, and her mother aged eighty-two years. 
They had nine children, two of whom are 
deceased: John and Joseph. Their living 
children are : Jonathan ; Philip Levering ; 
Catherine, Mrs. Welker; l.ydia, Elizabeth, 
Kehecea, and Amanda. 



870 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Lyter, Hiram, carpenter and farmer, was 
born in Halifax township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., August 26, 1850. He is a son of Henry 
and Susan (Miller) Lyter, prominent and re- 
spectable residents of Halifax township. 
They had ten children : Ellen, who died in 
childhood; Sarah, wife of Samuel Chubb; 
John; James; Hiram; Joseph; Mary; Agnes, 
wife of Clinton Miller ; Alfred ; Emma, wife 
of Ira Dunkle. 

Hiram Lyter attended the common schools 
of Halifax township for three months of each 
year until he was nineteen years old. Dur- 
ing the other nine months his assistance was 
given in the regular work of the farm. For 
three years after his school days were ended 
he remained with his father, doing for him 
the work of a farm hand. At the age of 
twenty-two he began an apprenticeship of 
two and a half years at carpentry with Peter 
Klinger, Jackson township. His apprentice- 
ship over, he worked at his trade as a jour- 
neyman for seven or eight years. He then 
undertook carpenter work and contracting 
on his own account, and continued it about 
nine years. In the autumn of 1890 he re- 
turned to the business of farming and re- 
moved to the homestead in Middle Paxton 
township, where he has since resided and 
carried on his business. 

Mr. Lyter was married, May 25, 1873, to 
Agnes L., daughter of Josiah and Margaret 
(Buffington) Weaver. They had seven chil- 
dren : Harry Edward, born September 22, 
1875; Frank Newton, November 30, 1877; 
Annie Melinda, October 2, 1879; Charles 
Monroe, November 29, 1881 ; William Alton, 
April 9, 1886; Lizzie Lucretia, August 17, 
.1889; Susan Rebecca, March 6, 1894. Mr. 
Lyter is a Democrat. The family attend the 
Lutheran church. 

Joseph Weaver, father of Mrs. Lyter, con- 
ducted an extensive cabinet making and un- 
dertaking business at Berryburg and Fisher- 
ville, Dauphin countv. He died in August, 
1873. Mrs. Weaver died in 1872. They had 
six children : Henry, died aged about seven 
years; John; Agnes L., Mrs. Lyter; Alice, 
wife of William Shell ; George; Phoebe, wife 
of William Burrell. Isaac Lyter, first cousin 
of Hiram Lyter, is at present county com- 
missioner of Dauphin county. 

Conrad, Jacob, farmer and watchmaker, 
was born in Clark's Valley, Middle Paxton 
township, Dauphin count}', Pa., Jul}' 24, 
1852. He is a son of Jacob and Sarah 



(Hoover) Conrad. His grandfather, John 
Conrad, married Catherine Buche. Their 
children were: Jacob, Daniel, Frederick, 
John, and Mary, wife of John Saum. The 
parents of Jacob Conrad are both deceased. 
His mother died aged about fifty-nine. His 
father died April 29, 1887, aged about 
seventy-five j'ears. They had ten children : 
Rebecca, born December 3, 1843, died Octo- 
ber 2, 1851, aged seven years ; Catherine, 
wife of John Tobias ; Adeline, wife of Michael 
Schaffer ; Rachel, wife of David Umberger ; 
Mary M., widow of Samuel Essinger ; Eliz- 
abeth, wife of Henry D. Bender ; Emeline, 
wife of Benjamin Hummel; Jacob, John P., 
and William H. 

Jacob Conrad was educated in the district 
schools of Middle Paxton township. He was 
at school in winter and at work on the farm 
in summer until he reached the age of seven- 
teen, when his school days ended, and he 
became regularly engaged in farming. Two 
j'ears later he left the farm and worked in a 
saw mill for three years. Coffrode, Saylor 
& Co. employed him one year in bridge 
building, and then he spent one year in 
farming on his own account. He next en- 
tered the employ of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company in the capacity of track 
walker, in which occupation he has con- 
tinued up to the present time. Mr. Conrad 
employed his leisure time in learning watch- 
making, and has established a large and 
profitable business in his neighborhood. 

On January 9, 1876, Mr. Conrad was mar- 
ried to Sarah Ellen, daughter of John and 
Mary (Reicht) Bowman. They have two 
children, Edward Franklin, born April 4, 
1877, and Flora May, born January 31, 
1880. Mr. Conrad is a Republican. The 
family attend the Lutheran church. Henry 
Bowman, grandfather of Mrs. Conrad, mar- 
ried Elizabeth Urich. Their children are : 
Margaret, wife of James Howden ; Christian ; 
Mary, wife of Nicholas Snyder; Hannah, 
wife of Michael Dunkle ; Uriah, and Jacob. 
The parents of Mrs. Conrad are both de- 
ceased. Her mother died November 29, 
1877, aged forty-nine years. Her father 
died March 25, 1894, aged sixty-five. They 
had nine children : Uriah, died aged six 
months ; John, died aged four months ; 
Leah Jane, died aged two j'ears ; Anna 
Rebecca, wife of Aaron Shaffer ; Sarah 
Ellen, Mrs. Conrad ; Henry; William ; Mar- 
garet Alice, wife of Peter Witman, and 
Hannah Cora, wife of James Nelson, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



-71 



Gerberich, Andrew T., merchant tailor, 
was born in Lower Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. He is a son of Adam and 
Marie (Tittle) Gcrberich. Andrew Gerberich, 
great-grandfather of Andrew T., was one of 
seven brothers who emigrated to this country 
about 1700. His son, John Adam Gerberich, 
had nine children, one of whom was Adam 
Gerberich, father of Andrew T. Gerberich. 
He died aged seventy -three years. His wife, 
Mary (Tittle) Gerberich, died aged sixty- 
eight. They had nine children : Elias, 
David, John, Adam, Andrew, Sarah, Daniel, 
William, and Elizabeth. Jacob Tittle, the 
maternal grandfather of Andrew T. Ger- 
berich. emigrated from England. He mar- 
ried Mary Fisher, a native of Lebanon 
county, Pa. They had seven children : 
David, Sepina, Sarah, Elizabeth, Kate, Mary, 
and Jacob. 

Andrew T. Gerberich went with his par- 
ents to Annville, Lebanon county, Pa., where 
his father kept an inn for one year. The 
family then removed to a farm in East Han- 
over township, Lebanon count) 7 , where An- 
drew enjoyed the advantages of the common 
schools in winter and assisted at farm work 
in summer. At fourteen years of age he be- 
gan an apprenticeship of three years at tailor- 
ing with Edmund K. Kimmel, at Lebanon, 
Pa. After learning his trade he remained 
nine years in the employ of Mr. Kimmel as 
a journeyman. He then worked eight 
months for William Wbelfly, at Jonestown, 
after which he returned to Lebanon and 
worked six months for Michael Wagner. He 
was then employed again by Mr. Kimmel 
for six months, but on account of dull trade 
was forced to seek employment in other 
fields. For one year he was with a lumber 
firm, engaged in assorting lumber. Mr. 
Gerberich now began business on his own 
account, opening a shop for tailoring in East 
Hanover township, Lebanon county. Thir- 
teen months later he removed his business 
to Linglestown, Pa.; alter two years he sold 
his property there and removed to Dauphin, 
where he has built up a large and profitable 
business. He is still carrying on this trade 
with gratifying success. 

Mr. Gerberich was married, in 1858, to 
Elizabeth, one of the four children of David 
Hoostick. Their only child. William G, 
died at the age of nine months. Mrs. Ger- 
berich died in 1860, aged about twenty-six 
years. Four years latter Mr. < rerberich mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of John and Mary 



(Masener) Shope. They have had four chil- 
dren : Freeman 0., Harvey J., William S., 
and Carrie Vernon, wife of Harry J. Sim- 
mons. Mr. Gerberich is a member of Pax- 
ton Lodge, No. 621, I. 0. O. F., at Dauphin. 
He is a Republican. The family attend the 
Lutheran church. 

Abraham Shope, grandfather of the second 
Mrs. Gerberich, married Elizabeth Wasser. 
They had five children. Mrs. Shope died, 
and Mr. Shope's second marriage was with 
Elizabeth McFadden, by whom he had eight 
children. 

The mother of the second Mrs. Gerberich 
died July 17, 1885, aged about sixty-eight 
years. She had nine children ; David, de- 
ceased ; Harriet, wife of Philip Felty; Eliza- 
beth, Mrs. Gerberich ; Dr. Jacob W., served 
in the Union army nine months ; William, 
Calvin, John, George, and Mary, wife of 
Washington Manley. 



Hoffman, David, hotel proprietor, was 
born in Powell's A r alley, Reed township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., January 8, 1852 ; son 
of George and Susanna (Miller) Hoffman. 
His grandfather, Nicholas Hoffman, died in 
1865, aged eighty-two years. His wife is also 
deceased. They had a family of sons and 
daughters, of whom George, father of David 
Hoffman, was born October 26, 1814. 
George and Susanna Hoffman, the parents 
of David Hoffman, are both living. They 
have had fourteen children, three of whom 
died in early childhood : Margaret, died aged 
eighteen ; John ; James ; Sarah, wife of Uriah 
Bowman ; Daniel ; Elizabeth, wife of Charles 
Smith ; David ; Susanna, wife of William 
Tyson; William, Samuel, and Jacob. John 
Miller, maternal grandfather of David Hoff- 
man, died at the age of eighty-seven ; his 
wife, Pollie Miller, at the age of seventy- 
eight. 

David Hoffman was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of his native township. He re- 
mained with his father on the farm until he 
was twenty-one, when he started out in life 
on his own account. He was employed by 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at stone 
cutting and masonry on their road between 
Baltimore and Harrisburg. He was engaged 
two summers at Harrisburg in building the 
Methodist and Presbyterian churches. In 
L882 Mr. Hoffman returned to his old home 
and spent two years there. He then moved 
to the lower end of Reed township, where he 
lived three years, and then took the Dauphin 



872 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Hotel, at Dauphin, which he managed two 
years, and then removed to a private resi- 
dence in Dauphin. Later, in the autumn 
of 1891, he purchased the Dauphin House, 
which he has occupied and managed since 
that time. Mr. Hoffman is an enterprising 
business man, and a generous dispenser of 
hospitality. He is interested and active in all 
movements to promote the prosperity of the 
community. Mr. Hoffman was married, 
February i3, 1883, to Malinda J., daughter 
of Cyrus and Elizabeth (Sweigert) Miller. 
Their children are: Harry Edward, born 
May 14, 1885, died October 8, 1891 ; Annie 
Elizabeth, born December 20, 1883 ; and 
Ray Coble, born February 22, 1891. Mr. 
Hoffman has served four years as council- 
man ; he is a Republican. The family at- 
tend the Methodist Episcopal church. The 
father and mother of Mrs. Hoffman are both 
deceased. Her mother was born March 2, 
1856. 



McKee, Harry, D., bridge builder, was 
born at Clark's Ferry, Middle Paxton town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., June 10, 1860. 
He is a son of Henry and Catherine (Fore- 
man) McKee. Henry McKee was born in 
Scotland, September 7, 1819. He died in 
June, 1890. He was married to Catherine 
Foreman, born in Heilbronn, Germany. 
They had thirteen children, of whom there 
are living: Bella, wife of W. Oyster; Harry 
D., Luther P., and George B. Their mother 
is still liviug. 

Harry D. McKee attended the common 
schools of Reed township until he was fif- 
teen, when he entered the Bloomfield Acad- 
emy, Perry county, Pa. After leaving this 
institution he engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness at Dauphin, in connection with his 
sister, Miss Bella McKee, their father fur- 
nishing the capital. • Harry D. continued in 
this business until 1884, after which he was 
one year in the employ of the Philadelphia 
and Reading Railroad Company. During 
this year he lived with J. A. Sweigert, the 
present superintendent of the road. 

He then entered the employ of Clark, 
Reeves & Co., and was engaged in bridge 
and structure work under the supervision of 
Mr. R. A. Simmons. Remaining in the em- 
ploy of this company, now known as the 
Phoenix Bridge Company, he was promoted 
to the position of foreman of erection, 
which he has filled with credit to himself 
and satisfaction to his employers, to the 



present time. He has assisted in numerous 
structures built by the Phoenix Company 
throughout the United States. He is at 
present foreman of erection of the terminal 
buildings of the Brooklyn bridge, Brooklyn, 
N. Y. He was married, May 10, 1885, to 
Annie M., daughter of Hugh and Martha 
(Bretz) Dougherty. Of their two children, 
one, Francis Simmons, is deceased ; and the 
other child is Luther Reed. 

Mr. McKee is a skillful and successful me- 
chanic. His knowledge and ability in 
structural work have been gained by dili- 
gent study and long and profitable experi- 
ence. His reliability as a man, and his 
superiority as an artisan are demonstrated 
by the responsible position he holds. He 
had unusual advantages for developing his 
natural mechanical talents, under the super- 
vision of that prince of mechanics and fa- 
mous bridge builder, Mr. R. A. Simmons, 
familiarly known among the bridge build- 
ing fraternity as " Pop Simmons," a title ex- 
pressive of the general opinion as to his 
priority and prominence in the craft. He 
is a member of Fern Council, No. 774, 
Royal Arcanum, at Brooklyn, N. Y.; also 
of Brooklyn Lodge, No. 228, F. & A. M. He 
is a Republican. 

The father of Mrs. McKee died July 14, 
1883, aged seventv-six years. Her mother 
died October 16, 1883, aged fifty-two. They 
had seven children: John W., Philip D., 
James W., Annie M., Mrs. McKee; Carrie M., 
Harry U., and Daisy W. The grandmother 
of Mrs. McKee lived to be ninety-three years 
of age. 



Sweigart, Michael, was born in Powell's 
Valley, Dauphin county, Pa., February 25, 
1853. He is a son of Philip and Susan 
(Fawber) Sweigart. Philip Sweigart was 
born February 3, 1820, on the old homestead 
in Powell's Valley, Jefferson township, now 
Wayne township, where his grandfather 
originally settled before the Revolution. He 
died November 14, 1894. His wife died in 
May, 1870, aged about forty-five. They had 
nine children: Susanna, wife of William 
Rummel : Elizabeth, wife of Reuben Kessler ; 
Amos; Michael; Martha, wife of Nathan 
Zimmerman; Samuel; Mary Ann, wife of 
Jonas Rudy ; Emma Jane, and George 
Franklin. 

Michael Sweigart attended the common 
schools of his native township during the 
winter months until he was twenty years of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



873 



age. AVhen he was twenty-one he began 
cultivating his father's farm in Jefferson 
township on his own account, and continued 
to do so for about eight years. From that 
time until 1802 he was farming in Fishing 
Creek Valley, Middle Paxton township. He 
then removed to Harrisburg, Pa., and was 
there one year, after which he returned to 
the homestead, and has resided there up to 
the present time. In the autumn of 1894 
he established his extensive saw mill plant 
for manufacturing a variety of lumber pro- 
ducts. He supplies the farmers of the neigh- 
borhood, and has also a good share of the 
merchant trade. 

Mr. Sweigart was married, February 11, 
1875, to Lydia E., daughter of John J. and 
Margaret (Hoffman) Lantz, born January 
20, 1849. They have four children : Charles 
F., born February 29, 1876; Harry W., 
March 1, 1878; Samuel C, November 28, 
1881, and Maggie May, November 8, 1886. 
Mr. Sweigart is an energetic and prosperous 
man, and is exemplary in all relations of 
life. He is a Democrat. The family attend 
the Evangelical church. 

John J. Lantz, father of Mrs. Sweigart, 
died February 6, 1888, aged about seventy- 
two. Mrs. Lantz died May 1, 1853, at the 
age ef about thirty. They had nine chil- 
dren : George W.; John W.; Samuel N.; 
Mary A., wife of Samuel V. Enders; Sarah 
Margaret, wife of Benjamin F. Schaffer; 
Lydia E., Mrs. Sweigert; Eliza Jane, wife of 
Andrew Brusler; Katie, died in infancy; 
also one infant, not named. The second 
wife of Mr. Lantz was Elizabeth Pyle. They 
had two children: Susan Amanda and 
Charles Grant. 



Stence, Ephraim Elijah, farmer and 
merchant, was born in Fishing Creek Valley, 
Middle Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., May 22, 1854. He is a son of Joseph 
and Mary Ann (Douglas) Stence. His mother 
died May 10, 1887, and his father in June, 
1890. Their children were : Frederick and 
Ephraim E. 

Ephraim E. Stence went to the public 
schools of his township until he was sixteen, 
assisting at farm work during the busy sea- 
son. He worked for his father until he was 
twenty-six, when they became ecpial partners 
and co-operated in farming until 1887. At 
that time he bought Ids present homestead 
of eighteen acres, and also embarked in mer- 



cantile business, which he has since con- 
ducted. 

Mr. Stence was married, December 12, 
1872, to Mary E., daughter of Challis and 
Sarah (Lambshore) Bailey. They have one 
child, Jacob Elijah, who was married, Au- 
gust 24, 1894, to Hattie E. G., daughter of 
George W. Reed. Mr. Stence is a Republi- 
can. The family attend the Evangelical 
church. 

The father of Mrs. Stence, Mr. Bailey, is 
deceased ; her mother is still living. They 
had eight children : Laura, wife of Joseph 
Shartzer; Mary E., Mrs. Stence; Daniel, 
Charles, William, Joshua, Albert, and Susan. 
Joseph and Laura (Bailey) Shartzer had three 
children: Harry, died aged three months; 
Susie, wife of George Hoover; and Mary. 
Mr. Shartzer's father was the son of Joseph 
and Mary (Shisley) Shartzer. He was a 
farmer, born in Middle Paxton township. 
He died in May, 1866, and his wife in 1861. 
They had six children: Agnes, Sarah, 
Amanda, Elizabeth, John, and Joseph. Mr. 
Shartzer's second wife was Sarah Fyle, b}' 
whom he had one child, Elmina. 



Steese, Alfred David Frederick, rail- 
way postal clerk, was born at Fort Hunter, 
Susquehanna township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., December 4, 1837. He is a son of Fred- 
erick and Catherine (Hassinger) Steese. His 
grandfather, Frederick Steese, was married 
three times and had a family of eighteen 
sons and three daughters. Frederick Steese, 
Jr., father of A. D. F. Steese, died aged sixty- 
seven years. His wife was born inlSOO and 
died August 19, 1876. They had nine chil- 
dren : Reuben H.; Josiah G.; Julia A., wife 
of James Reed; Aaron W.; Sabra M., widow 
of Augustus Bell; Jane, wife of Thomas 
Milliken, Esq.; Catherine, Elizabeth, Bar- 
bara, and Alfred D. F. The family removed 
to Dauphin. Pa., April 1. 1838. 

Alfred D. F. Steese attended the borough 
school during the winter and worked on the 
farm during the busy seasons until he was 
sixteen. He was for three months in the 
employ of the Susquehanna and Dauphin 
railroad as brakeman on a freight train, and 
was then promoted to.be a conductor on a 
passenger train, lie served one year in that 
capacity. He then voluntarily became 
brakeman on a passenger train, was after- 
wards made fireman, and so continued for 
one year. At the solicitation of his parents 



874 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



he left the railroad service when he was 
eighteen, and they started him at boating 
on the Pennsylvania canal from Pittsburgh 
to Columbia, over the Allegheny mountains 
on cars, and thence by water to Columbia, 
He carried on this business one season, and 
then became locomotive fireman on the 
Northern Central railway on the first loco- 
motive run over the Susquehanna division 
under Engineer Preston Hall. He held this 
position fifteen months, and was then pro- 
moted to engineer on the old " camel back " 
engine, No. 31. He ran the first locomotive 
into Sunbury on the Northern Central rail- 
way. His parents again prevailed upon him 
to abandon the railroad, and fitted him out 
with a boat on the Pennsylvania canal. He 
made four trips from Wilkes-Barre to Balti- 
more, and then sold his boat to the United 
States Government, being taken into Gov- 
ernment service and sent with his boat to 
Washington, D. C. His boat was loaded 
with munitions of war and sent to Acquia 
Creek, where he remained six months, and 
then returned to Dauphin. He was subse- 
quently prostrated with typhoid fever, and 
was attended by Dr. J. R. Umberger. Re- 
covering from this critical illness he returned 
to Alexandria, Va., and took charge of a lo- 
comotive on the Orange and Alexandria 
railroad in the service of the United States 
Government. He was captured by the 
rebels at Vienna, Fairfax county, Va., and 
barely escaped starvation before he reached 
the Union lines. He was again captured at 
Fairfax Station, again released, and made 
his way back to camp. He was employed 
by the Government as engineer until the 
close of the war. While he was in the ser- 
vice two of his firemen were killed by the 
enemy. After the war he was again in 
the service of the Northern Central Rail- 
way Company as engineer until Janu- 
ary 2, 1867. On April 1, 1867, he embarked 
in the mercantile business at Dauphin, Pa., 
and was in that business for ten years. He 
then failed, and for one year was engaged in 
fishing along the Susquehanna river. On 
August 29, 1879, he was appointed railway 
mail agent, and given a route on the Elmira 
and Baltimore railway postoffice. He has 
held that position since that date, and is 
truly a veteran railway clerk. His record 
is without a blemish, and he enjoys the con- 
fidence of the department. 

Mr. Steese was married, February 15, 1858, 
to Mary Davis. They had six children : 



Elmina, born October 4, 1866, died Novem- 
ber 17, 1866 ; Julia Frances, born January 
26, 1860, wife of Dr. Thomas L. Poffenber- 
ger, dentist, Harrisburg ; Louis Mershon, 
born August 11, 1862 ; Martha Davis, wife 
of Dr. F. Gerberich ; Sabra Bell, December 
12, 1875. 

Mr. Steese has been president of the bor- 
ough council of Dauphin for three consecu- 
tive years. He is a Republican. Since 
1867 he has been a member of the Perry 
Blue Lodge, No. 4, F. & A. M. The family 
attend the Presbyterian church. 

Christian Dull, grandfather of Mrs. Steese, 
married Elizabeth Essex. They had nine 
children: Charles, James, Catherine, Mary, 
Elizabeth, Sarah, Theresa, Hannah, mother 
of Mrs. Steese, and Helen. Rev. John W. 
Davis, the father of Mrs. Steese, was born at 
Newburyport, Mass. He was the son of 
John Davis, and was a Presbyterian minis- 
ter. He had charge of the church at Dau- 
phin at the time of his death, which oc- 
curred August 14 or 15, 1868. He resided in 
New York before coming to Dauphin. His 
wife, Hannah Dull, was born in 1808, and 
died September 13, 1872. They had seven 
children : Charles A., served nine months 
in the Union army ; Elizabeth ; Mary, Mrs. 
Steese; Martha A., widow of William Blerut- 
ter ; Thaddeus. killed at the battle of Mis- 
sionary Ridge; John W., participated in 
Sherman's march to the sea ; Sarah, wife of 
Martin Hiner, of Harrisburg. 

Josiah G. Steese and Aaron W. Steese, 
brothers of A. D. F. Steese, both enlisted in 
the Union army, were honorably discharged 
from the same, and returned home. Their 
father, Frederick Steese, was one of the de- 
fenders of Baltimore, in 1814, when General 
Ross was shot by the two American youths 
at North Point, near Baltimore. 



Baker, Henry, farmer, was born in Leb- 
anon county, Pa., January 31, 1819. He is 
is a son of Frederick and Catherine (Eshel- 
man) Baker. His grandfather, Frederick 
Baker, Sr., married Elizabeth Kinsey. They 
had five sons and three daughters. The 
mother of Henry Baker was born April 12, 
1794, and died January 19, 1852. His 
father was born October 22, 1893. They 
had nine children : Elizabeth, born Novem- 
ber 9. 1817; Henry; Isaac, February 1, 
1821; John, January 15, 1824; Rudolph, 
January 16, 1826; Jacob, May 6, 1828; 
David, September 8, 1830 ; Frederick, April 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



875 



2, 1S34; Catherine, May 27, 1S39. The sec- 
ond wife of Frederick Baker. Jr., was Mary 

Flory, to win nn he was married March 29, 
1853. Their children are, Mary, born 
March 5, 185-4, and Joseph, December 12, 
1856. 

Henry Baker attended private schools in 
Londonderry township. When a boy lie 
also assisted bis father in weaving and farm 
work. He remained with his father until 
he was twenty-eight, and then began farm- 
ing on his own account, having rented a 
farm in West Hanover township. For five 
years he worked on rented farms and in 
1S53 removed to his present homestead, 
which he has cultivated since that date. 

Mr. Baker was married, December 9,1847, 
to Anna Mary, daughter of John and Mollie 
(Paynter) Foreman. The}' have three chil- 
dren : Rudolph, born December 10, 1850, 
died August 14. 1852 ; Mary Ann, born Janu- 
ary 9, 1846, wife of James L. Brown, who 
died April 14, 1873 ; she afterwards married 
J. W. Wade ; David, born January 11, 1862, 
married July 25, 1886, to Annie M. Lehman, 
daughter of John and Mary Ann (Reese) 
Lehman: they have five children: Mary 
Alice, born January 20, 1887 ; Charles An- 
derson, August 30, 188S ; Elizabeth Agnes, 
January 6, 1891 ; Sarah Adeline, January 
5, 1893 ; and James Albert, January 14, 
1896. Mr. Baker is a Republican. He w T as 
an old line Whig, and cast his first vote 
for President for William Henry Harrison. 
The family attend the German Baptist 
church. 

The parents of Mrs. Baker are both de- 
ceased. Her father died aged about seventy- 
five. They had a family of five daughters 
ami four sons. 



Cokbett, Joseph F., in the earlier and 
more active part of his business career, was a 
contractor and builder; he spent the latter 
part of his life as a retired capitalist. He 
was born in Fishing Creek Valley, Middle 
Paxton township, Dauphin county. Pa., Jan- 
uary 23, 1819; son of Joseph and Jane 
(Foulk) Corbett. His opportunities for secur- 
ing an education were slender, being only 
such as the schools of his native township 
afforded ; and of these he could make but a 
limited use, as he began at a very early agi 
to earn his own living. lie soon embarked 
in contracting and building on his own ac- 
count. Mr. Corbett was successful in his 



work from the outset, and soon became well 
known and prosperous. He obtained the 
contracts for some of the largest bridges in 
Dauphin county, and superintended their 
construction; and in every important struc- 
ture completed under his supervision he has 
left an abiding monument of his mechanical 
skill and commercial fidelity. 

By his activity and success in contracting 
and building he accumulated means which 
enabled him to become interested in other 
branches of business. He soon found that 
his mechanical talent was fully equalled by 
his financial ability, and he became con- 
nected with a number of the financial insti- 
tutions of the county, among which may be 
mentioned : The Lykens National Bank, now 
the First National Bank of Millersburg, in 
which he served as director, and of which he 
was one of the organizers, and largely Instru- 
mental in its establishment; the Lykens 
National Bank of Lykens, in which also he 
was for years a director, having been active 
and influential in its organization: and the 
Merchants' National Bank at Harrisbuig, in 
which he served for many years as a director. 

Mechanical enterprises were no less invit- 
ing to Mr. Corbett than financial ones. He 
was largely interested in the Harrisburg < 'ar 
Works, and was a stockholder and director 
of the Axle Works at Millersburg. Although 
he began life without the assistance of influ- 
ential friends or material inheritance, rely- 
ing upon his own resources and employing 
only honorable means and measures. Mr. 
Corbett achieved an enviable success, com- 
ing to be recognized as one of the most reli- 
able and efficient business men of the county, 
and enjoying the confidence and esteem of 
men in all circles. 

Mr. Corbett was married. August 29. 1846, 
to Margaret Tindall. They had five chil- 
dren, four of whom are deceased: Emma 
Virginia, born March 31, 1854, died January 
26. 186(1; Maggie Florien, born January 23, 
1856, died Julv 20, 1873 ; William Eenry 
Harrison. bom'May 23, L847,died March 25, 
1874: Charles J., born November 22, 184S, 
died June 28, L879; he married Emma C. 
Berick, and they had one son. Charles J. 
The widow married G. C. Wright, and they 
had three children. The surviving child of 
Mr. Corbett is Viola Estelle, born December 
15, L850, married Daniel C. Hamilton, of 
Pittsburgh. Pa.; they have six children, two 
of whom, frank and Joseph, are deceased : 



876 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



their living children are: Harry C, Bessie, 
Eben C, and Nathan McDowell. Mr. Ham- 
ilton died and Mrs. Hamilton was married 
to Mr. F. C. Gore. Mrs. Joseph F. Corbett 
died January 23, 1864. The second mar- 
riage of Mr. Corbett occurred August 28, 
1806, in which he was united to Elizabeth 
Martin, widow of Perry Martin, 'who died 
July 21, 1863. Mrs. Corbett is still living ; 
she is a daughter of Charles and Mary 
(Gorgas) Gleim, of Lebanon county, Pa.; her 
parents had six children : Joseph, George, 
Christiana, Maria, Charles, and Elizabeth, 
Mrs. Corbett, born August 31, 1S20. 



Sponsler, John, farmer, deceased, was 
born on the old homestead in Clark's Valley, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 21, 1814; son 
of John and Susanna (Kinter) Sponsler. An- 
drew Sponsler, his grandfather, emigrated 
from Germany, and settled in Clark's Vallej', 
near the site of the homestead. John Spons- 
ler (1), was born December 28, 1783. He was 
a soldier in the war of 1812. He had six 
children: Andrew, married Anna Sweigei't ; 
Isaac, died in early life ; Hemy, married 
Katie Miller ; Elizabeth, married Henry Ri- 
neard ; and George, married Barbara Bow- 
man, had two children, Samuel and Albert. 

John Sponsler (2), was educated in the 
subscription schools of his native township. 
He remained at home, and worked with his 
father on the farm from boyhood to early 
manhood. 

Mr. Sponsler was married, December 26, 
1837, to Julia, daughter of John Etter and 
Elizabeth (Shelly) Etter, born March 16, 
1810. They had six children : Calvin B., 
born October 5, 1838 ; James K., April 29, 
1840 ; Marv J., May 24, 1841 ; Isaac E., born 
April 13, '1846, died November 8, 1860; 
William, born October 7, 1847, and one who 
died in infancy. 

After his marriage Mr. Sponsler remained 
on the home farm and cultivated it for six 
years. In 1843 he bought from Henry M. 
Bayard a tract of land containing 135 acres, 
which he cleared, and on which he made 
many valuable improvements, building a 
substantial barn in 1866, and in 1874 erected 
the stone mansion which- is the spacious and 
elegant home of the family. Mr. Sponsler 
was an enterprising and prosperous man. 
In all relations of life his conduct was emi- 
nently correct, and Avon for him the confi- 
dence and esteem of his neighbors. His 



politics were Democratic. In matters of 
faith and religious life he held with the 
Lutheran church. Mr. Sponsler died March 
4, 1895, and his wife July 25, 1871.' 

Calvin B. Sponsler, son of John Sponsler 
(2), was married to Edna Belle Lyons, and 
now resides in Pittsburgh. He learned the 
blacksmith's trade with Leonard Poffen- 
berger, at Dauphin, Pa., and afterwards be- 
came engaged with the Keystone Bridge 
Company, of Pittsburgh, of whose forging 
department he has been for twenty-five years 
foreman, and still holds that position. James 
K. Sponsler, another son, married Susan P. 
Milliken ; the}' have one daughter, Cora. 
He also learned his trade with Mr. Poffen- 
berger, and worked at a number of places. 
He conducted business on his own account 
at Goshen, Ind., for four years, after which 
he served different firms in the capacity of 
salesman and steel inspector, being thus en- 
gaged for about fourteen years. His wife 
died June 11, 1881. William Sponsler, a 
third son, is at present employed at the shops 
of the Harrisburg Car Manufacturing Com- 
panj r , at Harrisburg. He married Sarah E. 
Straw ; they have one son, John C. 



Kendig, Daniel, was born at Sunbury, 
Pa., March 16, 1802 ; son of John and Eliza- 
beth (Hill) Kendig. A sketch of his father 
and grandfather appears in this volume. He 
went to Middletown, Pa., when quite young, 
and served an apprenticeship to his brother 
Martin at the saddlery and harness trade. 
Subsequently he was partner with his brother 
in the lumber business, and in connection 
with Judge Murray they built a saw mill at 
the mouth of the Swatara and established a 
large trade. In 1862 Mr. Kendig was ap- 
pointed assessor of internal revenue for the 
district, and held the office until removed by 
President Johnson. He was at one time a 
candidate for sheriff but was defeated. He 
was an elder in the Presbyterian church, 
and a gentleman of great personal worth. 
He died" December 31, 1876, at Middletown. 
Mr. Kendig was twice married. 



Zimmerman, Valentine, youngest son of 
Henry and Barbara (Greiner) Zimmerman, 
was born May 19, 1829, in the old stone 
springhouse on the Kerr estate in Dauphin 
county. When he was ten years of age his 
father died, leaving the care of the farm 
upon the shoulders of 'his mother and his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



S77 



elder brothers. He attended pay school in 
Churchville, in the Old Neidich meeting- 
house, now occupied by the United Brethren 
church; and also attended school in High- 
spire at what was called the "Academy," 
located where the recent Wilson Distillery 
stands, and then taught for many years by 
Henry Stoner. He assisted his older brother 
Henry during the years of his minority to 
farm the home place, until near the time of 
attaining his majority, when he and his 
mother moved back to the forty-acre tract, 
adjoining where his father lived, before 
moving on the Kerr estate. Here they 
erected a new brick house in 1849, and in 
the following year they erected a frame bank 
barn which was burned to the ground in 
June, 1884. The mother's dower interest in 
the Kerr estate was also set apart at this 
time, swelling the tract to about seventy 
acres, to which seventeen acres were later 
added from the Neidich estate, making it a 
valuable tract of about eighty-eight acres. 
In 1856 he married Barbara S. Felty, of 
Linglestown, Dauphin county, and bought 
this tract from the estate. In the spring of 
1849 he and his mother undertook an over- 
land journey to Columbus, Ohio, with a 
spirited horse and a characteristic chaise of 
that day. The railroads had not then yet 
been built over the mountains, and did not 
extend farther west than Pittsburgh. In their 
journey they followed the stage line route 
through Chambersburg and Bedford county, 
stopping en route at the various public inns 
of that day. That trip consumed some- 
thing over two weeks, which is now easily 
covered in about eighteen hours. He often 
related of the struggle in Dauphin county 
to adopt the free school system. At that 
time the polling place for Lower Swatara 
township was at Portsmouth, known as the 
" point " now where the borough of Middle- 
town stands; and that when the election was 
to be held in the spring, a snowstorm and 
blizzard so drifted the country roads that 
many of the farmers who were opposed to 
the measure could not cast their vote, 
and so free schools won the day. lie in 
every way corroborated the many descrip- 
tions of the primitive schoolhouse furniture, 
and the district schoolmaster training, so 
characteristic of that early day. The " rule 
of three" was then the scholar's highest am- 
bition, and the geographies represented <>hio 
as the far West. 

For many years lie farmed a tract of about 



sixty acres of land known as the " White 
House Farm," and owned by Mary Stoner, 
until in 1880, when he purchased" a large 
tract of about one hundred and twenty- 
eight acres, known as the Heisy estate, in 
Conewago township, Dauphin county. 

In 1895 he sold the farm adjoining the 
Kerr estate to his nephew, Sol. Zimmerman, 
and the following spring moved to New 
Benton, a suburb of Steelton. His reputa- 
tion as a farmer was always of the highest 
order. He was highly esteemed as a citizen 
by all who knew him. 

For many years he was one of the super- 
visors of his township and held minor offices 
of trust. He first was a member of the 
United Brethren church, but later affiliated 
himself with the Church of God, of which 
his wife is a zealous member. 

In politics lie probably inherited his 
father's Democratic faith, but was in no 
sense a partisan, but has frequently voted 
the Republican ticket, and was especially 
independent of party lines in local elec- 
tions. 



Bell, Samuel, farmer, was born on the 
homestead, July 1, 1831, and is a son of 
James and Martha (Irwin) Bell, the latter 
being a daughter of Samuel and Catharine 
(Freeburn) Irwin. The great-grandfather, 
John Bell, settled in Middle Paxton town- 
ship. The father died in September, 1862, 
at the age of seventy-two years, and the 
mother at the age of eighty years. They 
had a family of seven children : William, 
deceased ; John, deceased ; Isaac, Catharine, 
Samuel, Mary, and James. Mrs. Bell's 
father, Isaac Bell, was born February 6, 1803, 
and died January 25, 1S73, and her mother, 
Jane Sprout, was born August 8, 1S15, and 
died April 13, 1843. The children are: 
Mary Jane, deceased ; Clarissa, James, 
Louisa, and one who died in infancy. 

Samuel attended school in the old Stony 
Creek school house during the winter and 
assisted his father on the farm in the sum- 
mer. When twenty-one years of age lie was 
employed by the Philadelphia and Reading 
Railroad Company, for which lie continued 
to work at intervals for ten years. He and 
his brother Isaac then bought the old Bell 
farm, formerly owned by their grandfather, 
James Bell. After living there eight years 
Samuel moved to the homestead, where he 
now resides. After his father's death, in 
1862, the estate was divided into six tracts. 



878 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



He married Miss Louisa A. Bell, daughter of 
Isaac Bell, a native of Dauphin county, 
March 17, 1856. Their children are: Irwin 
G., born September 27, 1857 ; Charles S., born 
February 23, 1861 ; Lawrence M., born 
March 28, 1864; Samuel J., born August 25, 
1867 ; Clara J., born July 22, 1870 ; Anna 
L, born August 10, 1874; and Mary C., born 
September 25, 1878. In politics Mr. Bell is 
a Democrat, and served as tax collector, as- 
sessor, and six consecutive terms as super- 
visor. The family attend the Presbyterian 
church. 



Baker, Jacob, Sr., farmer, Fort Hunter, 
was born in Conewago township, May 6,1828, 
and is a son of Frederick and Catharine 
(Eshelman) Baker. The father, a weaver by 
occupation, learned his trade in Elizabeth- 
town, Lancaster county, but spent the last 
part of his life fanning in Middle Paxton 
township. By his first wife he had these 
children: Betsy, Henry, Isaac, John, Rudolph, 
Jacob, David, Frederick, and Katie; and by 
his second wife: Mary and Joseph. Mrs. 
Baker's parents are both deceased and had a 
family of nine children. Jacob first attended 
the subscription schools and later the public 
schools of his district. At the age of eighteen 
he began to learn the trade of shoemaking 
with Elijah Wise, at Harrisburg. He con- 
tinued in this occupation for ten years. In 
1856 he pui'chased the present homestead 
from his father's estate and engaged in farm • 
ing, which he still follows. He was married, 
August 15, 1850, to Miss Susan Straw, daugh- 
ter of Frederick and Catharine (Kipple) Straw. 
Their children are: Sarah Adaline, born 
March 6, 1852, wife gf Solomon Felty; Valen- 
tine, born March 21, 1856 ; Anna Mira, born 
August 10, 1861, wife of Jacob Livingston ; 
Charles William, born September 1, 1865. 
Mrs. Baker died January 31, 1889. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican and has served as su- 
pervisor. The family attend the Evangeli- 
cal church. 



Cofrode, William R., iron moulder, was 
born in Lancaster count} 7 , Pa., December 22, 
1822, and died October 25, 1893. The 
parents had a large family, of which Jacob, 
David, William R., and Jessee were mem- 
bers. Mrs. Cofrode's father died in June, 
1877, and the mother March 8, 1877. Their 
children are: Lucy Ann, deceased.; Tobias, 
deceased ; Zachariah, deceased ; Mary, born 
August 4, 1833 ; Isaac ; Ellen, widow of John 



Minberger, and Catharine, widow of Jacob 
Bogner. William R. received his education 
in the schools of his native county. At an 
early age he learned the trade of iron 
moulder at Wilmington, Del., and worked 
at it in that place and subsequently in Dau- 
phin Car Works. In 1856 he moved to 
Berrysburg, and on January 25, 1865, en- 
listed in company G, Fifty-fifth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, George H. Miller 
being his captain. After receiving an hon- 
orable discharge at Petersburg, Va., August 
30, 1865, he again worked for the Dauphin 
Car Company, and continued with it until 
1887. He was married, March 20, 1856, to 
Miss Mary Garman, daughter of Casper and 
Elizabeth (Bognn) Garman. Their five 
children are: Parker L., born June 23, 1857; 
Birn T., born October 11, 1858; Cora S., 
born January 10, 1865 ; Effie E., born March 
10, 1868, and Mary E., born August 24, 1874, 
married March 15, 1894, to Charles H. Web- 
ber, who has two children, Birn C, born 
June 30, 1894, and Roy R., born October 12, 
1895. In politics he was a Republican, and 
the family attend the Evangelical church. 

Denison, George R., farmer, Dauphin 
Pa., was born in Wheeling, W. Va., and is a 
son of Horatio W. and Jane Chambers (Drips) 
Denison. The grandfather, Hugh Deni- 
son, conducted a large hotel at Juniata Cross- 
ing in Bedford county and also operated a 
ferry at the same place. He was born Sep- 
tember 12, 1782. His famihy consisted of 
these children : Jane, Bartly, Horatio, Re- 
becca, Mary, and Agnes Amanda ; all are 
deceased. His wife, Mary, was born April 
12, 1784, and died July 28, while he died 
February 13, 1819. The maternal grand- 
father was Benjamin Chambers, the founder 
of Chambersburg. Mr. Chambers was the 
first white settler in Franklin county, locat- 
ing there about 1726. The father died July 
28, 1875, and the mother on November 11, 
1861. Their children were: Margaret J., 
George R., Mary R., and William D. George 
R. came to Loudon, Pa., with his parents 
when but one year of age. His education 
was received in the schools of his native 
place. April 1, 1862, the family moved to 
Dauphin county and located on the present 
homestead in Middle Paxton township. 
George has resided on the farm up to the 
present time. He was married, February 
17, 1885, to Elizabeth (Kinter) Denison, 
daughter of Isaac and Rebecca (Boam) Kin- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



879 



ter. Their children are: Rebecca K., Mary 
Jane, William D., Esther, and George R. 
In politics Mr. Denison is a Republican and 
the family attend the Presbyterian church. 

DeWalt, Ferdinand, farmer, was born 
in South Manheim township, Schuylkill 
countv, March 1, 1832, and is a son of Abra- 
ham and Elizabeth (Rheim) DeWalt. The 
parents died September, 1850, only one day 
apart. Their family consisted of eight chil- 
dren: Edward, Lydia, Clara, Leah, Ferdi- 
nand, Susan, Louisa, and Levina. Mrs. De- 
Walt's parents are also deceased and had a 
family of nine children : Susan, Thomas, 
John, Maria, Rachel, Sarah Ann, Daniel, 
and William, also one who died in infancy. 

Ferdinand received his education in the 
public schools until he was sixteen years of 
age and then attended a private school at- 
tached to the Lutheran church. From 
eighteen to twenty he was engaged at the 
trade of shoemaking, and in 1853 entered 
the service of the Philadelphia and Harris- 
burg Railroad Company. In 1862 he was 
made roadway foreman and held the posi- 
tion until it was abolished when the com- 
pany was re-organized. He was then sec- 
tion foreman until he was compelled 
to quit work, in 1895. on account of ill 
health. He was married, September 17, 
1853, to Sarah Ann Luckins, daughter of 
William and Margaret (Bingman) Luckins, 
who was born August 18, 183G, near Read- 
ing, Berks county, Pa. Their children are: 
Joseph, Clara, Elizabeth, all deceased ; and 
Augustus, born March 21, 1855; John, born 
December 17, 1S56; Margaret, born March 
13, 1858; Sarah, born March 17, 1S60 ; 
Elijah, born April 8, 1863 ; Katie, born De- 
cember 29, 18"69; Charles, born July 22, 
1S72 ; Frederick, born January 21, 1874; 
Victor, born May 6, 1877; and Leroy, born 
August 23, 1879; also one child who died 
in infancy. A Democrat in politics Mr. De- 
Walt lias served as school director and is a 
member of the Philadelphia and Reading 
Railroad Relief Association, and of Lodge 
No. 621, I. 0. 0. F. He and his family at- 
tend the Lutheran church. 



was born October 9, 1816. Their children 
were: Margaret Ann, John, Hannah, Cathe- 
rine, all deceased; and Michael, William, 
Jacob, and Benjamin. Michael, during the 
late war, was enlisted at Millersburg in the 
Union army. Mrs. Fetterhoff's father was 
born June 23, 1803, and died December 7, 
1868, while her mother was born May 30, 
1804, and died May 29, 1860. Their family 
consisted of seven children : Susan, Eliza- 
beth, Catharine, Jacob, Mary Ann, Amanda, 
and Sarah Jane. 

William received his education in the 
public schools of his district up until he was 
seventeen years of age. He worked on the 
farm until the age of twenty, when he served 
an apprenticeship of two years at the trade 
of mason. Then worked as journeyman for 
one year, after which he engaged in farming 
in Halifax township for himself, and con- 
tinued there three years. In 1875 he moved 
to Middle Paxton on his present homestead, 
and has since been engaged in farming. He 
was married, December 23, 1869, to Miss 
Amanda (Tyson) Fetterhoff, daughter of 
Jacob and Elizabeth (Shultz) Tyson. Their 
children are: William B., born February 
15, 1872, and died November 4, 1881: Isaac 
E., born December 1, 1877, and died Novem- 
ber 7, 1881 ; Estella M., born March 10, 
1876, and died November 25, 1881 ; Jacob 
E., born August 15, 1870; John M., born 
May 15, 1S94, and one who died in infancy. 
In politics Mr. Fetterhoff is a Democrat, and 
has served as assessor in Middle Paxton 
township. The family attend the Evangel- 
ical church. 



Fetterhoff, William, farmer, was born 
in Powell's Valley, Halifax township, Octo- 
ber 30, 1845, and is a son of Jacob and Car- 
oline (Unger) Fetterhoff. The father was 
born December 14, 1812, and died November 
18, 1805, being survived by his wife, who 



Fertig, John K., farmer, was born on the 
old homestead, in Middle Paxton township, 
February 16, 1843, and is a son of John and 
Catharine (Kinter) Fertig. The grandfather, 
Peter Fertig, was born January 21, 1774, and 
died at the age of seventy-five years. He 
was married to Miss Mary Kline, by whom 
he had five children: Rachael, John, Eliza- 
beth, Sarah, and Julia Ann. The father died 
in the autumn of 1848, being accidentally in- 
jured at the old homestead, and the mother's 
death occurred February 22, 1843. Their 
children were: John K. and James. The 
father of Mrs. Fertig was horn April 17, 
1835, and died March 7,1872: the mother 
died in 18S9. They had six children : Joseph 
H, deceased, William Luther. Lewis, Margaret 
S. Daniel II., an. I Elizabeth. 

John K. attended the suhscription schools 



880 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



until he was nine years of age, when he be- 
came a student in the public schools of his 
native township, and continued until he was 
eighteen years of age. Being left without a 
mother when but six days old, he was reared 
by his grandmother, Elizabeth Kinter, in 
Stony Creek Valley. He studied for one 
term in the Loysville Academy, Perry 
county, Pa. After being engaged in farming 
for some years, he secured employment with 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Compan} 7 , and 
soon received the appointment of car in- 
spector, at Altoona, which position he filled 
two years. He bought the old homestead 
in 1866, and engaged in farming until 1885, 
when he built his present home and retired 
from active work. He was married. Octo- 
ber 18, 1866, to Elizabeth C. Poffenberger. 
They have no children. In politics Mr. 
Fertig is a Republican, and has labored in- 
dustriously all his life, hence he enjoys the 
fruits of his earl} 7 efforts. He and his wife 
are members of the Lutheran church. 



Fertig, John Q., farmer, was born on the 
old homestead near Dauphin, and is a son of 
Solomon and Rebecca Enterline Fertig. The 
father was born February 8, 1824, and died 
March 13, 1882. He was engaged in farm- 
ing all his life, and was married, January 23, 
1851, to Miss Rebecca (Enterline) Fertig. 
Their children were: John Q., Elizabeth, 
William, Mary Ellen, deceased, Ida, and 
Estella. Mrs. Fertig's father died April 27, 
1882, and her mother in November, 1892. 
They had a family of four children : Jairus, 
Christian B., Charles, and Mary R. John Q. 
received his education in the public schools 
of Dauphin county A and also attended Crit- 
tenden's Business College, Philadelphia. He 
first assisted his father on the farm, but in 
1876 began farming on his own account in 
Crawford county, Pa. Here he purchased a 
farm in Cambridge township, on which he 
lived eight years. In August, 1885, he 
bought his father's homestead near Dau- 
phin, and has resided there since that time. 
He was married, June 22, 1875, to Miss Mary 
R. Kinter, daughter of Henry and Eliza- 
beth (Blyton) Kinter. Their children are : 
Virginia, deceased ; Nellie, deceased ; Robert, 
F., deceased ; Elsie Fidelia, born August 7, 
1879 ; Charles R., born August 4, 1883, and 
Mary, born October 4, 1894. In politics 
Mr. Fertig is a Democrat and has served for 
three successive terms as auditor. The 
family attend the Lutheran church. 



Greenawalt, Phillip B., station agent, 
Dauphin, Pa., was born in Lebanon, May, 
1825. He is a son of John and Mary Ann 
Brown, daughter of Luke and Mary Brown. 
The father was a merchant in Lebanon, Pa., 
and is now deceased. By his first marriage 
he had these children: Elizabeth, Margaret, 
Rebecca, and Edwin Everett ; and by his 
second marriage he had four children : 
Phillip, Henry, John, and Sarah. Phillip 
B. attended the subscription schools in Leb- 
anon and when public schools were estab- 
lished attended school at Lancaster city. 
Next he went to Harrisburg schools and fin- 
ished his education at the academy in Lititz, 
Lancaster county. He soon went to Phila- 
delphia and began to learn the trade of cabi- 
net making. After remaining there two years 
he came home and was in the mercantile 
business for ten years with his brother Henry. 
In 1863 he secured a position as clerk in the 
station for the Northern Central railroad 
and the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad 
Company. On January 1, 1891, he was ap- 
pointed agent at Dauphin for the Philadel- 
delphia and Reading railroad and retains 
the position to the present time. He mar- 
ried, first, Miss Dorcas Stackpole March 20, 
1849. She is a daughter of Thomas and 
Elizabeth Stackpole, and they had a family 
of three children : John R., Thomas S., and 
Dorear, who died in infancy. Mrs. Green- 
await died March 22, 1853. He was mar- 
ried, secondly, April 10, 1858, to Susan Mil- 
ler, by whom he had two children: Charles 
F., and Edmund, deceased. The wife died 
March 8, 1857. He married, thirdly, on 
January 6, 1859, Sarah F. Steel, daughter of 
Davis and Pattalina Clark. Their children 
are: Bertha Regina, deceased ; Alice Clark, 
deceased ; William Clark, Phillip Herbert, 
and Mary. Mr. Greenawalt is a Republican, 
and the family are members of the Presby- 
terian church. 



Heck, Dr. Lewis, was born in Franklin 
county. Pa., in 1810, and was the son of 
John Heck. He died in August, 1890, and 
his wife in January, 1894. Lewis received 
his primary education in a private school in 
Cumberland county, and continued there 
until he was eighteen years of age, when he 
began to read medicine with Dr. William 
Rankin, atShippensburg, Pa. When twenty 
years old he entered Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege, at Philadelphia, and graduated from 
that institution at the age of twenty-two 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



383 



with honor. He first located in Buffalo, 
Perry county, and then in Fort Hunter, 
Dauphin county, where he practiced his 
profession up to 1855. In 1843 he became 
interested in the lumber business, and pur- 
chased the extensive saw mill plant built by 
Robert Dempsey, it being one of the first 
mills erected on the Susquehanna river north 
of Harrisburg. He conducted a large and 
profitable business up to 1S70, when his son, 
J. Lewis Heck, succeeded him. In 1852 or 
1853 he purchased theEmaline furnace, two 
miles above Dauphin, and rebuilt the fur- 
nace in 1854, when it became known as the 
Georgianna furnace. Here he burned char- 
coal for twelve years, when he changed it to 
an anthracite furnace and leased the plant. 
He was also largely identified with farming 
interests. He married, June, 1S39, Miss 
Caroline C. (Wright) Heck, of Lancaster 
city. Their children are: Alice C, de- 
ceased ; Edward W., deceased ; Albert H, 
deceased ; Emma A., deceased ; George W., 
Mary Anna, and J. Lewis. A Democrat in 
politics, be served as school director, and 
was sent to the State Assembly by a large 
majority. The family attend the Presbyte- 
rian church. 



Jones, J. Challis, miller and flour manu- 
facturer, Dauphin, was born at Dawley, 
Shropshire, England, July 8, 18G4, and is a 
son of John and Amelia (Bailey) Jones. 
The father and mother are. both deceased, 
the latter dying November 27, 1867. They 
had a family of six children : Frances Mary, 
Henry James, Ruth Susanna, J. Challis, 
William Thomas, and Charles Samuel. The 
father of Mrs. Jones passed away February 
22, 1893, aged sixty-two years, and is sur- 
vived by his wife. Their children are: 
Agnes Fraser, Theodora Caroline, and Charles 
Stewart. The father was county judge of 
Welland county, Ont., having been ap- 
pointed for life by the Crown. He was a 
man of sterling integrity and highly esteemed 
by his many friends and neighbors. 

J. Challis received his education in his 
native country until 1S7S, when be moved 
with his parents to Canada, and located in 
Huron county, where he completed his edu- 
cational training in the high school at 
Wingham. He then went to Thorold, Wel- 
land county, and begaD to learn the trade of 
milling with his uncle James and Sir W. P. 
I lowland, K. ('. 15., with whom he remained 
three years. He engaged in the milling 
56 



business for himself in 1886, at Thorold, Wel- 
land county, Ontario Province, and con- 
tinued there until 1S8S. when lie moved to 
Dauphin and rented the " Robinson Mills." 
After operating them for two years he pur- 
chased the extensive milling plant and his 
present homestead. He was married, at 
Thorold, May 5, 1892, to Theodora Caroline 
(Baxter) Jones, daughter of George and Car- 
oline (Low) Baxter. He succeeded A. B. 
Wagner as school director and is a member 
of the Court Crescent, No. 128, A. 0. of F., 
Thorold, Welland county, Ontario, Canada. 
Politically he is liberal, voting for the fittest 
candidates. He and his family are members 
of the Episcopalian church. 

Kennedy, Bailey, farmer, was born in 
Middle Paxton township, December 25, 1826, 
and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Brown) 
Kennedy. The parents of Mr. Kennedy are 
both deceased, the father dying at the age of 
sixty-five years and the mother when she 
was eighty-one years of age. Their children 
are: John, George, Margaret, James, William, 
Bailey, David, Thomas, Joseph, Ambrose, 
and Catharine. Mrs. Kennedy's parents are 
also deceased, and had a family of four chil- 
dren : John, Caroline, Barbara, and Daniel. 

Bailey received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of his native place. When twenty- 
three years of age he served with an engineer 
corps, assisting in the construction of the 
Schuylkill and Susquehanna railroad. In 

1850 he managed his father's farm and in 

1851 he and his brother William furnished 
wood to the railroad. He next worked on 
the Lebanon Valley Railroad with the engi- 
neer corps and then engaged in fanning on 
the homestead, which he purchased in Sep- 
tember, 1882, and where he now resides. 
His parents were natives of Cumberland 
county, and the father, upon his removal to 
Dauphin, operated the old flour mill then 
owned by Judge Green. A brother Jai 
having drowned at the mouth of Stony ( 'reek, 
his mother became anxious for the safety .>!' 
the children, and they moved to Middle Pax- 
ton township. His father served in the war 
of 1812. Bailey was married, June 8, 1851, 
to Miss Barbara Ann (Seltzer) Kennedy by 
the Rev. ( '. !•'. Stoever. They have fourteen 
children, and all but three are living: Eliza- 
betb Jane, born July -<K ]s.",i ; Clarissa,)born 
February 19, 1854; David Lewis, bora Au- 
gust 8, 1855; Bailey, bom September 8, 1858 ; 
Anna Maria, born January !>. lSi;2; Barbara, 



884 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



born March 7, 1864 ; George G., born May 3, 
1865; Thomas F., born October 20, 1866; 
Caroline Ida, born January 13, 1868; Harry, 
born February 28, 1872; Alice P., born March 
8, 1873 ; Stewart and Alice, both deceased, 
and one child unnamed, who died in infancy. 
A Democrat in politics, Mr. Kennedy has 
served as jury commissioner and school di- 
rector. The family attend the Church of 
God. 



Kinter, Isaac, farmer, was born in Sus- 
quehanna township, on the Elder farm, No- 
vember 17, 1825. and is a son of John and 
Elizabeth (Miller) Kinter. The maternal 
grandfather was Hugh Boden, a native of 
Ireland, who came to this country in 1763. 
Tbe parents of Mr. Kinter are both dead, 
the father dying February 16, 1833, and the 
mother October 25, 1865. They were mar- 
ried November 7, 1809, and their children 
were: Peter, John, Catharine, George, Samuel, 
Isaac, and Elizabeth, all of whom have died 
except Isaac and Samuel. The parents of 
Mrs. Kinter are also deceased. Her father, 
John Boden, was one of two twins; the 
other, Andrew, once served in Congress, 
The father was an attorney at Carlisle, Pa., 
and was appointed president judge of the 
district comprising Perry and Cumberland 
counties, but died very suddenly before his 
commission arrived. He was married, No- 
vember 25, 1811, to Miss Jane Boden. Their 
children are : Sarah, Clarissa Mary, Jane 
Elizabeth, Robert Clark, Hugh, Catharine 
Elvina and John C. The mother died Sep- 
tember 5, 1828, and Mr. Boden married, 
secondly, September 1, 1830, Miss Agnes 
Irwin. Their children are: Rececca J. and 
William Andrew. His wife dying March 
13, 1836, Mr. Boden married, as his third 
wife, Miss Elizabeth Logue, on June 16, 
1841. She died January 4, 1848. 

Isaac received his education in the schools 
of his native place and those of Middle 
Paxton township, until he was eighteen 
years of age, when he went to York county 
and was engaged in hauling ore from that 
place to Harrisburg to be used in the manu- 
facture of rails. After being thus engaged 
for about seven years he returned to the old 
homestead and began farming for himself 
and has continued there to the present time. 
He married, December 15, 1852, Rebecca 
(Boden) Kinter, daughter of John C. and 
Irwin Boden. They have a family of twelve 
children : Samuel, George, William A., 



Elizabeth, Esther, Marshall, Catharine El- 
vina, Isaac, Sarah Virginia, Rebecca Agnes, 
Mary Jane, John B. and Edwin, both de- 
ceased. In politics Mr. Kinter is a Demo- 
crat and has filled various township offices, 
among them being president of the school 
board. The family attend the Presbyterian 
church. 



McCarty, Jesse, farmer, was born at 
Dauphin, Dauphin county, August 2, 1830, 
and is a son of Jesse and Mary (Walker) 
McCarty. The first of the McCarty family 
to settle in this country were three brothers, 
one of whom was familiarly called " Big 
Dan," who came from Scotland. The father 
was born at Carlisle, Pa., and moved to Dau- 
phin county in 1829 and located at Dauphin, 
where he engaged in tanning. He was an 
industrious worker, a good citizen and earn- 
est Christian man. He died in May, 1857, 
and his wife in July, 1872. They had a 
family of nine children : Martin ; William ; 
John; David; Ann, wife of Isaac Williams; 
Mary, wife of Joseph Gallagher; William 
Henry, all deceased ; and Jesse and Joseph, 
who survive. The father of Mrs. McCarty, 
who was of German descent, was engaged in 
the blacksmith business at Dauphin. He 
died November 29, 1874, and his wife sur- 
vives him. They had one child, Mrs. Mc- 
Carty. 

Jesse received his education in the public 
schools of Dauphin. He spent some years 
at work on the canal and later built and be- 
came the owner of boats and engaged in 
freighting lumber and coal to Philadelphia, 
Baltimore and New York, continuing that 
occupation up to 1879. In 1863 he and his 
two brothers, William and Joseph, bought 
the present homestead, where he has resided 
up to the present time, and which, by con- 
stant and faithful work, he has brought up 
to its present standard of excellence. He 
married, at Dauphin, June 11, 1867, Miss 
Mary J. Novinger, daughter of Jonathan and 
Sarah (Fertig) Novinger. Their only child 
is George L., born July 29, 1868. Mr. Mc- 
Carty assisted in removing the Sunday- 
school library from the Old Cemetery church 
library to Dauphin. He is a self-made man 
and is well known for his honesty and gen- 
erous hospitalit}'. In politics he is a Demo- 
crat and has served as school director and as 
assistant assessor. The family attend the 
Presbyterian church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



885 



Minsker, Moses, farmer and blacksmith, 
was born in Clark's Valley, Middle Paxton 
township, April 1,1837, and is a son of Lud- 
wig and Henrietta (Keen) Minsker. For two 
generations the Minsker family have lived 
in the locality where Moses was born. The 
father was born in 1799, and had a family 
of ten children. They are : Benjamin ; Solo- 
mon ; John ; Moses; Mary, deceased ; Aaron, 
deceased; Sarah, deceased ; Catharine, Har- 
riet, and Rachel. The parents of Mrs. Mins- 
ker are both deceased, and had a family of 
six children: Rebecca, John, Mary Ann, 
Edward, James, and George. 

Moses received his education in the public 
schools of his native place until he was seven- 
teen years of age, and then assisted his father 
on the farm until the latter's death in 1857. 
He then was engaged in various occupations 
until 1871, when he began working for 
Henry M. Bayard & Co., with whom he re- 
mained seven years. He then located on his 
present place and erected a new house, black- 
smith shop and other buildings, and has 
continued to reside there to the present time. 
He was married, December 5, 1863, to Miss 
Mary Ann (Forney) Minsker. Their chil- 
dren are: Catharine, born May 29, 1877, and 
died September 6, 1878; William, born 
August 21, 1SG4 ; Susan E., born February 
3,1866; John, born August 8,1867; Eliza 
Ann, born April 14, 1870; Mary Rebecca, 
born January 15, 1873; Hanna Alice, born 
January 20, 1875; Sarah Jane, born Septem- 
ber 12, 1879, and Moses, born October 2, 
1882. Mrs. Minsker passed away November 
13, 1893. She was a consistent Christian, a 
devoted wife and fond and indulgent mother, 
whose loss was felt by all who knew her. Mr. 
Minsker is a self-made man, and by his en- 
terprise and perseverance has accumulated a 
competency sufficient to enable him to spend 
comfortably his remaining life. In politics 
lie is a Democrat, and the family attend the 
Evangelical church. 



Sponseer, Samuel B., farmer, was born 
on the old homestead in Clark's Valley, 
Middle Paxton township, December 5, 1854. 
He is a son of George and Barbara (Bow- 
man) Sponsler. The father was born Octo- 
ber 30, 1821, and died June 6, 1894, while 
the mother was born June 18, 182ii, ami died 
August 8, 1872. They were married, De- 
cember 20, 1853, by the Rev. 0. F. Stover, of 
Harrisburg, and their children are: Samuel 



B. and Albert L. The father served as 
school director and as assessor. Samuel B. 
received his education in the public schools 
of his native township. He assisted on his 
father's farm until the latter's death, in 1894. 
He has served as telegrapher for several 
years under J. S. Fraim, of Dauphin, but 
was compelled to give up his position on ac- 
count of his mother's illness and death. He 
has been school director and auditor for his 
township. In politics he is a Democrat and 
attends the Lutheran church. 



Sponsler, Albert L., farmer, was born 
in Clark's Valley, Middle Paxton township, 
April 10, 1858. He is a son of George and 
Barbara (Bowman) Sponsler. Albert L. re- 
ceived his education in the public schools of 
Middle Paxton township, and then worked 
on his father's farm. In politics he is a 
Democrat and attends the Lutheran church. 



Bogner, Riley, farmer, was born on the 
old homestead, in Middle Paxton township, 
April 10, 1856, and is a son of Samuel and 
Anna Marin Bogner. The ancestors of the 
Bogner family were among the first settlers 
of Clark's Valley. Tobias, whose only pos- 
sessions were his rifle, axe and knapsack, 
located near the mouth of Clark's creek. 
His son, Jacob Bogner, was the father of 
Isaac and of Mrs. Anna Maria Bogner, the 
mother of Riley. Tobias and his son Jacob, 
who was but sixteen years old, served in the 
Revolutionary war. The grandfather Bog- 
ner died November 22, 1874, and his wife 
survives. They had only one child. The 
mother of Riley died July 21, 1871, and the 
father survives. Riley was their only child, 
and received his education in the public 
schools, and beginning farm work with his 
grandfather he has followed that occupa- 
tion all his life. In 1880 he moved to the 
old homestead. He was married, June 10, 
1879, to Elizabeth, daughter of Elias and 
Anna Mary (Schaffer) Fertig, and is the 
lather of two children: Anna Maria and 
Isaac Fertig. The parents of Mrs. Bogner 
had these children : Elizabeth ; Milton : 
Maria, wife of John Kinter; Mary, wife 
of Dr. A. C. Coble, and Laura, wife of John 
DeWalt. In politics Mr. Bogner is a Demo- 
crat, and has served as assessor and as audi- 
tor in his native township. The family at- 
tend the Lutheran church. 



886 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



LYKENS TOWNSHIP. 



Gise, Joseph D., farmer and stockman, 
was born in Lykens township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., April 27, 1834. His grand- 
father, Nicholas Gise, was a native of Lehigh 
county, Pa., and a carpenter. He married 
in Lehigh county, and had a family of five 
sons and three daughters. 

Among the sons of Nicholas Gise, was 
Benjamin, father of Joseph D. Gise. He was 
a farmer in Lehigh county, where he was 
born and spent his early life. While still a 
young man he removed to Dauphin county, 
locating in Lykens township, on a farm of 
eighty acres, which he greatly improved, 
and on which, besides farming, he made a 
business of raising live stock. Benjamin 
Gise was married, in Lykens township, to 
Rebecca Umholtz, born in Lykens township, 
December 25, 1810. They had ten children : 
Joseph D.; John B., at Gratz ; Mary A., wife 
of Jacob Shiro, of Gratz ; Sarah A., wife of 
B. J. Evitts, postmaster at Gratz; Amanda, 
wife of J. W. Hoffman, farmer, Lykens town- 
ship; Edward, Jacob, Henry, and Daniel, 
deceased, and two children who died in in- 
fancy. Mr. Gise died at Gratz in 1885. He 
was a Republican, and served as supervisor 
of roads. In all religious matters he took a 
deep interest, and was an active member of 
the Evangelical church, serving as deacon, 
elder and class leader, also as a local preacher. 
He was a prominent and very useful citizen, 
and an upright and devout Christian. 

Joseph D.Gise attended subscription schools 
and was for one year in the public school 
of the township ; he was also for two terms a 
pupil in the New Berlin Academy, Union 
county, Pa. He began to work on the farm 
in early boyhood, and was employed there 
until he was twenty-three years old. Dur- 
ing the latter part of this time he taught 
school for two terms. For fourteen years 
after leaving home he worked as a farm 
hand in summer and taught in the town- 
ship schools during the winter months. 
Throughout all that time he diligently pur- 
sued a course of private study and reading, 
with the view of acquiring a more liberal 
education. 

Under the administration of President 
Grant, Mr. Gise was appointed and commis- 
sioned in the Internal Revenue service as 
storekeeper and gauger of the Fourteenth 
Congressional district of Pennsylvania, and 
entered upon the duties of the office under 



an official bond of $20,000. He retained 
this position for seventeen years and per- 
formed its responsible duties with entire sat- 
isfaction to the Government and with the 
utmost credit to himself. After leaving the 
Government service Mr. Gise bought a farm 
of twenty acres in Lykens township, on 
which he made substantial improvements, 
building a fine dwelling house and barn, 
planting orchards, etc., and engaged in farm- 
ing and stock raising. 

Joseph D. Gise was married, at Berrys- 
burg, Pa., January 27, 1857, to Elizabeth E. 
Witmer, born in Uniontown, Pa., March 14, 
1840; daughter of Benjamin Witmer, a tailor, 
of Uniontown. They have three children : 
Henry Day, professor in the high school, 
Schuylkill Haven, Pa., where he has been 
employed for eleven years, being a graduate 
in the class of 187S of the State Normal 
School, Millersville, Pa.; George W., attor- 
nej'-at-law, Schuylkill Haven, Pa., read law 
under Guy Farquhar, of Pottsville, Pa., and 
has a large practice ; Mary A., died young. 

Mr. Gise enlisted in the Union army at 
Harrisburg, May 25, 1862, in company I, 
One Hundred and Seventy-seventh Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, Col. George B. Wiest- 
ling and Capt. Benjamin J. Evitts, and was 
mustered in as second lieutenant. He was 
discharged and mustered out August 5, 1864, 
having served on guard duty at Norfolk 
and Suffolk, Va., and at Gettysburg, Pa. 

Mr. Gise is a Republican; lie has held 
most of the township offices, and was twice 
elected justice of the peace, but declined to 
serve. He is a member of Kissinger Post, No. 
376, G. A. R., at Gratz, and has also belonged 
to the I. O. O. F., to K. of P., to S. P. K., 
and the Grangers ; he is interested in the 
Grange store at Gratz. He is a most worthy 
man, honored and esteemed in the commu- 
nity. 



Kissinger, Jacob, farmer and stockman, 
Gratz, Pa., was born in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., November 14, 1843. 
His grandfather, John Kissinger, was a na- 
tive of Lykens township, farmer, who lived 
and died in that township. He married 
Elizabeth Klinger, of Lykens A^allej 7 ; their 
children were: John, Jonas, Peter, Angeline, 
Susan, George, and Kate. 

George Kissinger, father of Jacob, was 
born in Lykens township in 1817, and edu- 
cated in the subscription schools of the 
township. His life was spent in farming. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



887 



He owned a farm of sixty acres in Lykens 
township, which lie cultivated and improved, 
and on which he was engaged in .stuck rais- 
ing. He is still an active business man. 
He is a Republican and a member of the 
Lutheran church. George Kissinger was 
married in Schuylkill county, Pa., to Sarah 
Knerr, born in Berks county, Pa., in 1822. 
Their children were : John, in Northampton 
county, Pa.; Jacob ; Catherine, wife of Ben- 
jamin Hoffman; Jane, wife of Reuben 
Steeley, Lykens township ; Amos, farmer, 
Lykens township, and Amanda, died young. 
Mr. and Mrs. Kissinger still reside in the 
township. Mr. Kissinger took an active 
part in the Sunday-school — was teacher and 
treasurer for many years. 

Jacob Kissinger attended the Kissinger 
school house in the winter and worked on 
the farm during the summer. He con- 
tinued work at home until July 1, 1803, when 
he enlisted in what was called the " Home 
Guards," at Gratz, Pa. He was in company 
C, Thirty-sixth regiment of these militia 
troops, and served eight weeks at Gettys- 
burg. Being then discharged, he returned 
home and remained on the farm until Feb- 
ruary, 1864, when he re-enlisted at Gratz 
for three years in company K, Ninth Penn- 
sylvania cavalry, Col. Thomas J. Jordan and 
Capt. J. Frank Miller. He was in the 
Atlanta campaign, and went with Sherman 
to the sea, and remained with Sherman's 
army, participating in marches and battles, 
until the surrender of Johnson, having been 
in forty-two battles and skirmishes. At the 
close of the war Mr. Kissinger was honor- 
ably discharged from the service at Harris- 
burg, returned home, and for two years as- 
sisted his father in cultivating the home 
farm. After this he cultivated a rented farm 
of eighty-five acres until 1885; when he 
bought the farm he now owns and occupies 
for $8,U00. He has built upon it a dwelling 
costing $1,500, and made other important 
improvements. Besides farming, he carries 
on a stock and a dairy business. 

Jacob Kissinger was married, in Lykens 
township, in August, 1807, to Amanda Will- 
iard, born in Lykens township October 1, 
1848, daughter of a farmer of that township, 
George Williard, and his wife, Lavinia 
(Deibler) Williard. Mr. and Mrs. Kissinger 
had eleven children : Harvey F., born No- 
vember 11, 1808, farmer, Lykens township; 
Mary, born February S, 1870, wife of Frank 
Hoffman, Lykens township; S. Katie, born 



June 9, 1872 ; Daniel, born January 10, 1874, 
farmer; Edmund O., born November9, 187';. 
at home; Ida, born January 9, 1878, died 
January 19, 1880; Dora E., born December 
13, 1880; Annie, born September 21, 1882, 
died in 1891 ; Charles \V., born September 4, 
1884; Jacob, born August 12, 1886; and 
Thomas H, born October 6, 1888. 

Mr. Kissinger is a member of Kissinger 
Post, No. 376, G. A. R., was commander of 
the Post one year, and has officiated as chap- 
lain, vice-commander, and lieutenant vice- 
commander. He has also been a member of 
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and 
of the Grange. He is a Republican ; has 
been four terms supervisor of roads and 
judge of elections, and has served in other 
township offices. Mr. Kissinger is also prom- 
inent in church affairs, being a member of 
the Reformed church at Gratz. He has been 
an elder for three years, and has represented 
the congregation at synods. He has served 
in all offices of the church, and is a diligent 
worker, and an honorable and influential 
citizen. 



Sitlinger, Isaac, farmer and stockman, 
was born in Schuylkill county, Pa., Septem- 
ber 15, 1833. George Sitlinger, his father, 
was born in Germany, and formerly spelled 
his name Zittlinger. He came to America 
when a young man and located in Schuyl- 
kill county, where he followed the occupation 
of harness making. He was a well educated 
man and taught subscription schools in the 
county, both English and German. He 
married Sarah Klinger, a native of Schuyl- 
kill county, by whom he had only one 
child, Isaac. He died in Schuylkill county. 
His politics were Democratic. He was a 
member of the Lutheran church. He was 
well known, genial and popular, enjoying 
the confidence and good will of his neigh- 
bors. 

Isaac Sitlinger was in his early youth in- 
structed by his father and also attended the 
subscription schools of the township. When 
quite young he came to Dauphin county, 
and found work as a farm hand in Lykens 
township until he was fifteen. At this age 
he began work as a coal miner, and was in 
the employ of the Lykens Coal Company 
for over forty years. He was a faithful and 
diligent worker, intent on earning a support 
for his family and accumulating money for 
business purposes, 

In 1874 Mr. Sitlinger bought a farm of 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



fifty-two acres in Lykens township on which 
he built a fine barn, costing over $1,000, and 
which he substantially improved in other 
ways; since that date he has been engaged 
in general farming. 

Isaac Sitlinger was married, in Lykens 
township, in 1852, to Maria Shade, born in 
Schuylkill county, June 23, 1834 ; daughter 
of Jacob Shade, a farmer, and Catharine 
(Klinger) Shade, his wife. The children of 
Mr. and Mrs. Sitlinger are : Sarah, wife of 
Benjamin Shadle, Washington township ; 
Jacob, a miner ; Clara, wife of Joseph Ras- 
patch, Wiconisco; George, farmer, Lykens 
township ; Alvin, farmer on the homestead ; 
Ida, wife of Uriah Daniels; Samuel, a miner; 
Elsie, housekeeper at home; Lettieand Mag- 
gie died young. Mrs. Sitlinger died Octo- 
ber 23, 1889. She was a devout member of 
the Reformed church, and was zealous and 
active in all church work. She was exem- 
plary as a wife and mother, a lovely Chris- 
tian woman. 

Mr. Sitlinger is a Republican. He was 
supervisor of roads for five years, and gave 
general satisfaction in office. He is one of 
the local party leaders, and is always active 
in political movements. He is a member 
of the Reformed church, and has been an 
elder for three years. He was formerly 
connected with the Independent Order of 
Odd Fellows. 

Mr. Sitlinger has an honorable record as 
a soldier in the late war. He enlisted at 
Harrisburg, in March, 1865, in company G, 
One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania 
volunteers, Capt. C. Harper and Colonel 
Lehman. He was detailed on guard duty 
at Fortress Monroe, Norfolk, and Roanoke 
Island, N. C. His enlistment was for three 
years, and he was mustered out at Newberne, 
N. O, at the close of the war. He returned 
home much broken in health, and was for 
one year an invalid The sight of his right 
eye is seriously impaired from exposure in 
the service. He is well worthy of a pension 
but as yet none has been granted to him. 
He is a substantial and reliable man, well 
liked by his neighbors. 



Ferree, Frank P., farmer and stockman, 
Gratz, Pa., was born in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., May 25, 1853. Isaac 
Ferree, his great-grandfather, was a native of 
France and a descendant of the Huguenots 
who were expelled from that country. He 
came to America and settled in Lancaster 



county, where he was a farmer and where he 
died. Isaac Ferree (2), grandfather of Frank 
P., was born in Lancaster county, Pa., and 
was also a farmer. He took part in the war 
of 1812. He came to Dauphin county and 
located in Lykens Valley and took up one 
thousand acres of timber land. He laid out 
the town of Lykens and was extensively inter- 
ested in farming and stock raising. He was 
much disturbed by Indian outbreaks and 
was repeatedly compelled to take up arms 
against the red warriors. He owned a pow- 
der mill at Lykens. He was an influential 
man, widely known and highly esteemed. 
He was an ardent Democrat. He held mem- 
bership in the Reformed church. He mar- 
ried in the township and was the father of 
ten children, among whom was George W., 
father of Frank P. Ferree. 

George Washington Ferree was born in 
Lykens Valley, Washington township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., November 21, 1810. He 
attended the subscription schools of the 
township, grew up on his father's farm, and 
was for twenty-five years employed in the 
coal mines of Wiconisco. Later he bought 
a farm of thirty-three acres in Lykens town- 
ship, and during the remainder of his life 
was engaged in agriculture. Mr. Ferree was 
married, in Lykens township, in 1834, to 
Leah Umholtz, born in Lykens Valley, Ly- 
kens township, February 7, 1815 ; daughter 
of Henry Umholtz, a farmer of that town- 
ship. They had ten children : Cyrus, de- 
ceased ; Uriah, deceased ; Mary A., deceased, 
wife of Isaac Burd; Elizabeth; Henry, 
miner; Leah, died in infancy; Sarah, de- 
ceased, wife of N. Bressler ; George W., de- 
ceased ; Frank P. ; and Ethel E., deceased, 
wife of John Rush. Mr. George W. Ferree 
died on the homestead, November 5, 1873. 
He was a Democrat and was very active as 
a local leader in his party. His wife died in 
1885. 

Frank P. Ferree attended the common 
schools and was also a pupil at the Berrys- 
burg Seminary for four terms. He became 
a teacher and taught the township school 
during the winter months and worked on 
the home farm in the summer. He always 
remained on the homestead and took charge 
of the farm after the death of his mother. 
He was also at intervals engaged in working 
in the mines, and up to the present time is 
occasionally employed in this work in the 
mines at Wiconisco. 

Frank P. Ferree was married, in Lykens 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



>-■'.) 



township, in 1878, to Catherine Salada, born 
in Lykens township, March 12, I860 ; daugh- 
ter of Henry Salada, a brick maker, and 
Elizabeth (Siloe) Salada. They have four 
children : Sarah E., horn November 20, 
1879; Joseph A., born December 17, 1885 ; 
Lizzie L., born April 1, 1890 ; and Henrv U., 
horn April 20, 1892. 

Mr. Ferree is a Democrat and was elected 
justice of the peace and served two terms, 
seven years, and was an acceptable officer. 
He is a member of the Reformed church, in 
which be has served as deacon and Sunday- 
school teacher and superintendent. He is of 
good reputation and character as man and 
as citizen, is well and widely known and 
universally respected. 



Hoffman, John W., farmer and stock- 
man, Gratz, Pa., was born in Gratz, Lykens 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., March 8, 
1843. His father, Henry 0. Hoffman, was 
born in Columbiana county, Ohio, and came 
when a young man to Harrisburg, Pa., where 
he worked as a carpenter for Mr. Holman. 
He afterwards came to Lykens township, 
and worked at his trade at Gratz, where he 
spent the remainder of his life, and died in 
1878. He was married, in Gratz, to a native 
of that place, Sarah, daughter of John Wel- 
ker. Their children were: Sarah, wife of 
John B. Hoke, Pottsville, Pa.; John W.; 
Elizabeth, wife of F. Heitzman, Shamokin, 
Pa.; Hannah, wife of John Eisenhart; Ellen, 
wife of George Reed, Valley View, Pa.; Re- 
becca, wife of Amos Kissinger; James F., re- 
sides in Gratz; Amelia, wife of John Getler, 
Pottsville, Pa.; Mary and Samuel, both de- 
ceased, and three children who died in in- 
fancy. 

Mr. Hoffman took an active part in poli- 
tics, first as a Whig and subsequently as a 
Republican. He held various township 
offices, as auditor, etc. He was an official 
member in the Reformed church, serving as 
deacon, elder and in other church offices. 
His wife was a member of the same church. 
She died in Gratz in 1881. 

John W. Hoffman attended school for a 
short time each winter, and worked on the 
farm of Daniel P. Stine every summer from 
his ninth to his sixteenth year. He also at- 
tended Freeburg Academy, Snyder county, 
for two terms. By this course, together with 
diligent private study and reading, he pre- 
pared himself for the work of teaching, and 



taught school twelve terms, ten of which 
were in the winter season. 

Mr. Hoffman learned carpentry with his 
father, and worked as a journeyman until 
the war broke out. He enlisted at Harris- 
burg in August, 1862, in company D, One 
Hundred and Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania 
volunteers, Col. W. W. Jennings and (apt. 
J. B. Keene. He was ordered to Washing- 
ton, D. G, and remained at Arlington 
Heights until December 1, when he marched 
with his company to Fredericksburg, and on 
December 13, 1802, participated in the battle 
fought there. He was afterwards sick for 
seven weeks, and remained there all winter. 
He was in the battle of Chancellorsville 
May 3, 18G3, and in the four days' fight 
there. His term of enlistment having ex- 
pired, he returned home in June, 1863, and 
remained there until April, 1865, when be 
again enlisted, this time for three years, at 
Harrisburg. He was sent to Roanoke Island, 
where he performed close guard duty. He 
was mustered out at the expiration of the 
war, and was left with impaired health, re- 
sulting from exposure in service. Return- 
ing to Gratz Mr. Hoffman taught school 
until 1878. He then bought a farm of fifty- 
two acres in the Snyder mill property, on 
which there was only an old frame house. 
He built on this place a good dwelling house 
and barn, costing over $2,000, and made 
other valuable improvements. In 1889 he 
bought the Shade farm of fifty-two acres, 
and has since cultivated the one hundred 
and four acres, on which he has been exten- 
sively engaged in raising stock. 

John W. Hoffman was married in Lykens 
township, January 17, 1867, to Amanda 
Guise, born in that township December 30, 
1847. Their children were: Edwin, tinsmith, 
Valley View, Pa.; Harry W., farmer, on the 
homestead, married Edna Daniel, of Lykens 
township ; Mary, wife of Isaac Troutman ; 
Martha, unmarried; Stephen, Charles G., 
Clarence and Ellie, all at home, and Emma 
C, who died at five years of age. Mr. Hoff- 
man is a member of Kissinger Post, No. 376, 
G. A. R. He is a Republican, active in 
party movements and deeply interested in 
township affairs. He was school director 
for a number of years. For seventeen years 
he was secretary of the Dauphin County Fair. 
He is also much interested in church mat- 
ters. He is a member of the Reformed 
church, in which he was for years Sunday- 



890 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



school teacher and superintendent. He is a 
live man in all public and social concerns, 
active in promoting the welfare of the com- 
munity. 



Umholtz, Emanuel, farmer, Gratz, Pa., 
was born in Lykens township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., July 30, 1843. Philip Umholtz, 
his grandfather, was of German descent, and 
was a farmer in Lykens township, where he 
died. He was an old line Whig and a 
member of the Reformed church. His son 
Samuel, father of Emanuel Umholtz, was 
also born in Lykens township, where he 
owned and cultivated a farm of one hun- 
dred acres. His wife, Elizabeth, daughter 
of Frederick Harner, was a native of 
the same township. They had eight chil- 
dren : Maria, died young ; Emanuel; Isaac, 
enlisted in company H, Two Hundred and 
Tenth Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
killed in battle ; Sarah M., wife of Henry M. 
Ritzman, Lykens township; Ellen, wife of 
Elias Klinger ; Henry, deceased ; Louisa, 
wife of Jacob Zimmerman, Williamstown, 
Pa.; Edward, in Iowa. Mrs. Umholtz died 
in Lykens township in 1856. Mr. Umholtz 
was again married, to Elizabeth Genter, born 
in Washington township; their children 
were: Adeline, wife of George Welker, Lykens 
township ; Harvey, killed by a casualty in 
the mines, and William, miner, residing 
in Gratz. Mr. Umholtz died in the town- 
ship in March, 1884. He was a Republican ; 
he served as tax collector and in other town- 
ship offices. He was an active member of 
the Reformed church, serving as deacon ; he 
was deeply interested in the welfare of his 
fellow-men. 

Emanuel Umholtz had only the most slen- 
der educational advantages, having been in 
school not more than a year altogether. He 
began at a very early age to work with his 
father on" the farm, and remained with him 
until he was fifteen ; at this age he went 
to Ohio, worked for a year on a farm, and 
then returned and was for two years in the 
employ of a farmer in Lykens township. 
He enlisted on July 1, 1863, in company 
H, Thirty-sixth Pennsylvania militia, and 
served sixty days in and about Gettysburg, 
at the time of the great rebel invasion. He 
afterwards worked on the farm until Septem- 
ber of that year, when he enlisted in com- 
pany H, Ninth Pennsylvania cavalry, Cap- 
tain Kimmell and Col. J. J. Jordan. He was 
with Sherman in all his campaigns, and par- 



ticipated in the battles fought by that army 
up to the close of the war. He was dis- 
charged July 28, 1865, resumed farm work 
with his father, and remained with him 
until 1867. In this year he bought a farm 
of eighty-two acres, which he cultivated for 
twelve years, and then bought a farm of 
sixty-four acres, improved it and farmed it 
for four years. He then sold this farm and 
bought the old homestead of seventy acres, 
which he now occupies and cultivates. 

Emanuel Umholtz was married, in Lykens 
township in 1867, to Mary, daughter of 
Henry Hartman, born in that township in 
1840. Their children are: Isaac M., on the 
homestead, married L. C. Cecilia Willard 
and has one child, Elmer ; and Lizzie, wife 
of George Daniel, farmer, Lykens township, 
has one child, Charles. 

Mr. Umholtz is a Republican ; has served 
fifteen years as constable. He is a member 
of Kissinger Post, No. 376, G. A. R., at Gratz. • 
He is connected with the Lutheran church, 
and has been four years a deacon. He has 
spent an active and useful life. He worked 
a year and a half in the mines, but most of 
his life has been devoted to agriculture. He 
takes an active part in the county fair, and 
is alive to all that promises good to the 
farmers. He is well known and well liked 
and everywhere recognized as a solid man. 



Riegle, Harrison, farmer and stockman, 
was born in Lykens township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., November 15, 1840. Daniel 
Riegle (1), his grandfather, was a native of 
Berks county, of German descent, and a 
farmer. He and his wife died in Lykens 
township. Both were members of the Re- 
formed church. He was an old line Whig. 
His son, Daniel Riegle (2), father of Harrison, 
owned and cultivated a farm of fifty acres in 
Lykens township, which he greatly improved, 
and occupied it until 1850. He then sold 
this farm, and purchased the mill property 
belonging to the Hoover estate, now the 
property of Daniel Buffington, on which he 
resided until 1855. He then removed to 
Gratz, where he died in June of the same 
year. He served one term as county com- 
missioner of Dauphin county, also one term 
as director of the poor of the same county. 
He was once a candidate for the office of 
sheriff, but was defeated. He was married, 
in Lykens township, to Catherine Hoffman, 
a native of that township, who died there in 
1864. Their children were: Eliza, deceased, 



DAUPHIN COUNT! 7 . 



VM, 



wife of Elias Etzwiler, Jackson township : 
Josiali R. and Jonas P., both deceased ; and 
Harrison. 

Harrison Riegle attended the public school 
for only a few terms, during winter months. 
He began early to help his father in farm 
wink, and remained with him until in his 
sixteenth year. At the age of seventeen he 
began working as a laborer in the mines; at 
the end of a year he became a miner, and 
was so employed until 1865. He enlisted at 
Ilarrisburg, March 10, 1SG5, in company G, 
One Hundred and Third regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, for one year. He was sent 
by the way of Baltimore to Fortress Monroe, 
thence to Norfolk and Roanoke Island, and 
was on guard duty for four months. He was 
mustered out of service July 14, 18G5, at 
Palmer, N. C, and returned to Harrisburg, 
where he received his discharge. After this 
he continued in the employment of the 
Lykens Valley Coal Company, as a miner 
until 1886, when he relinquished mining 
and bought a farm in Lykens township, con- 
taining forty acres cleared land and thirty- 
seven acres woodland, which he has since been 
engaged in improving and tilling. 

Harrison Riegle was married, in Lykens 
township, in 1867, to Plannah L. Rickert, 
born in that township in May, 1849 ; daugh- 
ter of Martin Rickert, farmer. Their children 
were: Chauncey A., miner; Lizzie C; Edward 
A., school teacher; CharlesG., miner; Bertha, 
Mabel, Norman, and seven who died in in- 
fancy. Mr. Riegle is a Republican ; has been 
for three years school director, and takes an 
active part in township affairs. At twenty -one 
years of age he joined the Gratz Lodge, I. 
0. 0. F., and still holds his membership in 
that fraternity. He is also connected with the 
Knights of Pythias, with the Lykens Lodge 
of S. P. K., and with Kissinger Post, No. 376, 
G. A. R. Mr. Riegle is a member of the 
Reformed church. 



Grubb, Henry A., farmer and dairyman, 
was born in Greenwood township, Perry 
county, Pa., September 30, 1850. 

Henry Grubb (1), grandfather of Henry 
A. Grubb, was a farmer in Perry county, and 
died in that county. Henry Grubb (2) was 
born in Greenwood township, where he 
owned and cultivated a farm of two hundred 
acres, on which he died in 1862. He mar- 
ried Abbey Mentz, a native of Northumber- 
land county. Their children were: Susan. 
William, Sophia, and .Sarah J., all deceased; 



Abbey, wife of Henry Long, Perry county ; 
Angeline, wife of Joseph Ulsh ; Abraham, of 
Perry county ; Henry A.; Mary, wife of Hen ry 
Grubb, farmer, Perry county; Ida, wife of 
John App. Mrs. Grubb died in Perry county, 
February 10, 1892. Mr. Grubb was a Re- 
publican. He was a zealous member of the 
Lutheran church, and took an active part in 
its enterprises. 

Henry A. Grubb attended the common 
schools of his native township. When he 
was twelve years old he engaged in regular 
work on the home farm, and was so em- 
ployed until his father's death, after which he 
hired out as a farm hand, at from $14 to $23 
per month. He worked one year in Perry 
county, then two years for George Negley, in 
Washington township, Dauphin county. He 
was for the next two years repairer in the 
Lykens coal mines. He then bought the 
old Hess farm, one hundred and eleven 
acres, in Lykens township, on which was the 
Hess Hotel, paying $62.50 per acre. He im- 
proved the place, adding needful buildings, 
etc., and began cultivating it, at the same 
time keeping the hotel for two years. In 
1895 he engaged in the dairy business, and 
has a good trade in supplying Lykens. Mr. 
Grubb has great energy, and is very enter- 
prising ; he is successful and prosperous. He 
is popular and well known as one of the 
substantial citizens of the township. 

Henry A. Grubb was married, in Lykens 
township, in 1874, to Isabella Hess, a native 
of Lykens township, and an adopted daugh- 
ter of Abraham Hess, a hotel keeper. Their 
children are: William, on the farm ; Annie. 
Edward N., Charles, Carrie, and one that 
died in infancy. Mr. Grubb is a Republican, 
and is active in public affairs. lie has been 
school director for three years. 



Kessler, Reuben, manufacturer and 
farmer, was born in Schuylkill county. Pa., 
June 18, 1846. Abraham Kessler, his father, 
was a native of the same county, and a 
farmer. In 1850 he bought a farm of forty- 
one acres, of Daniel EtiegTe.in Lykens town- 
ship, Dauphin county, built a saw mill and 
manufactured lumber en this place from 
1868 to 1881 : hi' was very enterprising. He 
was married, in Schuylkill county, to Cathe- 
rine Riegle, born in Lykens township ; Reu- 
ben was their only child. Mr. Kessler died 
June 12, 1881. He was a Democrat. His 
wife died at the home of her son November 



892 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



15, 1892. They were members of the Re- 
formed church. 

Reuben Kessler was well educated in the 
schools of Lykens township. He worked on 
the farm and in the saw mill for his father. 
After his father's death he took charge of 
the estate, tilled the farm and employed 
several men in the mill. In 1894 he built 
a distillery and engaged with success in the 
manufacture of whiskey. The business of 
the saw mill was equally satisfacton', and 
the farm of one hundred and twenty-three 
acres contributed its share to the prosperity 
of the estate. Mr. Kessler has his hands 
full of business, but with his able oversight 
and systematic management, nothing is 
neglected and ample returns ai*e derived 
from all branches of his enterprise. 

Reuben Kessler was married, in Jackson- 
ville, Jackson township, to Elizabeth Swei- 
gart, of Powell's Valley, on February 26, 
1871. Their children are : George W., 
James A., and Lousonna Catharine, on the 
farm ; Abraham P., died in 1895. Mr. Kess- 
ler is not a politician. In church matters 
he is zealous an dactive, and is a member of 
the Reformed church. He belongs to the 
Patriotic Order Sons of America, and form- 
erly belonged to the Independent Order of 
Odd Fellows, is much interested in the 
Grange and in all agricultural matters, but 
takes most pride in his fine blooded stock. 



Stine, Daniel P., farmer and manufac- 
turer, was born in Lykens township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 27, 1822. Frederick 
Stine, his grandfather, was born in Ger- 
man}', and came to the United States in 
1775, when he was a young man. He fought 
in the Revolution on the side of the Eng- 
lish. After the war he settled in Berks 
county, where he remained for some time. 
He removed to Lykens Valley in 1788, took 
up five hundred acres of land, bought some 
besides, and was extensively engaged in 
farming and stock raising. He also worked 
at his trade, masonry, in the valley. He 
married Abigail Lamm, born in Berks 
county. Their children were: Elizabeth, 
Rosanna, Catherine, and John P. Frederick 
Stine died in Lykens township, April 24, 
1832. His wife had died in October, 1823. 
He was a Democrat, and both he and his 
wife were members of the German Reformed 
church. 

John P. Stine, father of Daniel, was born 
in Berks county in 1784. He had a good 



German education, and also received some 
training in English schools. He owned a 
farm of three hundred and twenty acres, on 
which he built a dwelling house, barn and 
other needful structures, in which he car- 
ried on a general business in farming. John 
P. Stine was married, in Lykens township, to 
Regina Coleman, born in Lykens township 
in 1795; daughter of Charles Coleman, a 
farmer of that township. Their children 
were : Daniel P.; Elizabeth, wife of Daniel 
Retzman ; Abigail, wife of Joseph D. Frehn; 
Peter L., merchant, Elizabethville ; Jonas, 
engineer at Pottsville ; Josiah, farmer and 
tanner, Washington township, Dauphin 
county; and Catherine, Frederick, Ellen, 
John, Charles, Isaac, and Ann Myra, all de- 
ceased. Mr. Stine died in Lykens township 
in 1854 ; Mrs. Stine died in Gratz in 1878. 
They were members of the Reformed church, 
in which Mr. Stine was deacon, elder and 
trustee. He was a Democrat, and held 
several township offices. He was prominent 
in business and in social matters, and was 
esteemed as an honorable, worthy man, of 
intelligent and public spirit. 

Daniel Stine attended German schools in 
his township and also English subscription 
schools, but the whole extent of his school 
days was not more than six months. He 
began working on the farm at eight years of 
age and continued with his father until he 
was of age, assisting in clearing the land 
and in the work of cultivation. At twenty- 
one years of age Mr. Stine began business 
for himself. He bought a shop in Gratz, 
hired a harness maker and learned harness 
making with him. He then carried on this 
trade in Gratz for eight years. After this he 
bought a farm of fifty acres in Schuylkill 
county, which he improved and cultivated 
for four years and then sold. He bought 
the homestead, consisting of eighty-nine 
acres, in 1854, paying $3,500 for it, built a 
fine barn on it, which cost $1,700, and made 
other improvements. He worked at harness 
making in winter and was reasonably suc- 
cessful in his business. He has been assessor 
and supervisor in his township. He is a 
Democrat. 

Daniel P. Stine was married, in Schuylkill 
county, August 27, 1844, to Catherine Strong, 
born in that county, June 13, 1820 ; daugh- 
ter of John and Mary C. (Carl) Strong. 
Their children are : Mary J., born July 20, 
1845, wife of P. J. Artz ; and Amelia B., 
born November 28, 1847, wife of David 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



s:i:; 



Dietz, on the homestead. Mr. Stine is both 
grandfather and great-grandfather. His 
grandchildren of the family of P. J. and 
Mary Artz are : Jennie C, Ida M., Daniel 
S., Lizzie K., and Austin C. The children 
of David and Amelia Dietz are : H. E. and 
Katie R. His descendants of the fourth 
generation are : John G., Beulah E. and 
Flossie C. Moyer. Mr. Stine is a member of 
the Reformed church, has been deacon, and 
is elder and trustee. 



Shiro, Jacob, merchant, Gratz, Pa., was 
born in Wittenberg, Germany, February 
19, 1843. He is a son of Jacob and Susanna 
(Bellem) Shiro. Jacob Shiro, Sr., was born 
in France, and was a soldier in the French 
army, with which he crossed into Germany 
during one of the wars of religions. At the 
close of the war he married and settled in 
Wittenberg, where he conducted a public 
tavern until his death which occurred about 
1844. His children are: Mina, Mrs. James 
Bocker, of Harrisburg, and Jacob, Jr. His 
widow married Henry Snyder; she died in 
1893. Mr. Snyder survives her and resides 
in Lykens township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
where his wife died. The children of her 
second marriage are: Angeline, Mrs. Daniel 
Reichert, Williamstown, Pa.; Rose, first mar- 
ried Adam Frederick, deceased, and is now 
Mrs. Samuel Boke ; Henry, farmer, Gratz, 
Pa.; Amanda, Mrs. John Coleman, Gratz, 
Pa., and John, farmer, Lykens township. 

Jacob Shiro, Jr., was about one year old 
when his father died. At the age of six he 
began to attend school in Wittenberg, and 
was at school three years. In the spring of 
1852, with his mother, stepfather and the 
other members of his family, he emigrated 
to America. They embarked at Havre, 
France, in a sailing vessel, and after a rough 
voyage of twenty-nine days, during which 
they were in constant peril from the neigh- 
borhood of large icebergs, the}' landed in 
New York and came directly to Wiconisco, 
where they decided to make their home and 
where the stepfather at once found employ- 
ment in the mines. Young Jacob attended 
the English schools in Wiconisco for four 
terms, and this completed his school educa- 
tion. At the age of thirteen years he began 
work in the mines, picking slate at §8 per 
month, and has been employed in the 
mines for over twenty years. 

Mr. Shiro enlisted March 10,186 I. at Har- 
risburg, in company G, One Hundred and 



Third Pennsylvania volunteers, under Capt. 
C. A. Harper. The regiment was ordered to 
Roanoke Island by way of Fortress Monroe 
and Norfolk, where they were assigned to 
guard duty for six or eight mouths. The}' 
were then ordered to Newberne, N. C, to 
guard the Weldon railroad. While they 
were here a malignant fever broke out 
among the soldiers, from which as many as 
a hundred died per day. Mr. Shiro was at- 
tacked by the disease, but his sound consti- 
tution and his indomitable spirit enabled 
him to resist the fatal effects of the conta- 
gion. Although very ill he continued on 
duty, and proceeded on the march. He and 
other comrades hired an old colored man 
with a cart to carry their knapsacks and 
equipment, but the rickety vehicle proved 
inadequate to the strain, and their baggage 
was dumped on the road. Mr. Shiro deter- 
mined to push on at all hazards, and re- 
suming his burden, he continued the weary 
march, on which one of his comrades fell by 
the wayside and died. Much dispirited and 
worn in body, they finally reached New- 
berne, where they rested a short time, and 
then pushed on to Morehead City and boarded 
the steamer for Baltimore, where they ar- 
rived July 4, 1865. They reached Harris- 
burg Jul}' 7, and on that date were honor- 
ably discharged from the service. Mr. 
Shiro was still suffering from the effects of 
the fever, and remained in Harrisburg two 
weeks before he was sufficiently recovered to 
go home. During this time his physician at 
times despaired of his recovery. But he was 
finally restored to health, and retired to his 
home. He soon resumed work in the mines, 
where for four years he held the position of 
mine foreman. 

In 1877, having accumulated -$2,000. Mr. 
Shiro removed with his family to Freeport, 
111., and from that place to Coles county. 
111. There he bought one hundred and 
sixty acres of land, intending to try the life 
of a farmer. As there was an unexpired 
lease on the farm he could not obtain posses- 
sion until autumn ; he therefore rented the 
adjoining place for the season. Mr. Shiro 
remained three years in Coles county, and 
was successful as a fanner. He would have 

continued to live there bul for the loss of his 
wife, whose death occurred in 1880. This 

decided him to return to hi-; old home in 
Pennsylvania, which he did in the fall of 
that year. He located on a farm in Gratz, 
and in 1882 sold his Illinois farm for $6,000. 



894 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



In 1886 Mr. Shiro opened a general store in 
Gratz, Pa., which he has successfully con- 
ducted since that time. He also operates the 
North Side colliery on Short mountain. 

Mr. Shiro has been married three times. 
In 1862 he married Amanda Mover. They 
had two children : Annie, Mrs. John Schrei- 
ner, residing in Illinois, and Carrie, Mrs. 
Shield, residing in Pueblo, Col. Mrs. 
Amanda Shiro died in 1880. In his second 
marriage, in 1882, Mr. Shiro was united to 
Miss Lizzie Diebler, by whom he had one 
daughter, Lizzie, wife of Morris Schreffler, 
Mifflin township, Dauphin county, Pa, Mrs. 
Lizzie Shiro died in 1885. Mr. Shiro is now 
married to Mary, daughter of Benjamin Gise. 
They have one child, Jacob B. Mr. Shiro 
is a strong Democrat. He served as postmas- 
ter of Gratz for several years, having been 
first appointed under President Garfield. 
He isja member of Lodge No. 563, I. 0. 0. 
F., at Gratz, and of the Encampment at 
Gratz; also of Lykens Valley Lodge, No. 
365, K. of P., at Gratz. He is a member of 
the Evangelical church. 



Hepler, Isaac, merchant, Gratz, Pa., was 
born in Eldred township, Schuylkill county, 
Pa., August 5, 1840. He is the son of George 
W. and Hannah (Graiter) Hepler. His 
grandfather, Christopher Hepler, was born 
and reared in Schuylkill county and was a 
farmer. He died in his native county about 
1845. He married Catherine Wagner and 
they were the parents of a large family of 
sons and daughters. 

George W. Hepler, father of Isaac Hepler, 
was born m Eldred township, Schuylkill 
county, Pa., May 16, 1810. He died in his 
native township and was buried there. He 
married Hannah Graiter and their children 
are: Catherine, Mrs. John Berger, residing 
near Williamsport, Lycoming county; An- 
drew K.,' died in Schuylkill county in 1882 
and is buried at Gratz, Pa.; Polly, died 
young; Isaac; Hannah, Mrs. J. B. Fox, 
Sullivan county, Pa.; Lizzie, Mrs. David 
Williert, Uniontown, Pa.; George, laborer, 
Rocktown, Pa.; and John, laborer, Ashland, 
Pa. 

Isaac Hepler was not permitted to attend 
school vety long as his help was needed on 
the farm as soon as he was strong enough to 
do farm work, and his father died when he 
was eight years old. The farm contained 
one hundred and thirteen acres, but it was 
heavily encumbered with debt, and Mrs. 



Hepler found it difficult to keep the family 
together. She died when Isaac was nine- 
teen years of age. The farm was then sold, 
and after paying debts he found that his 
share was just $19. He went out from home 
and found work for one year with his uncle, 
John Haas. In October, 1862, he enlisted at 
Harrisburg in company K, One Hundred 
and Seventj'-second regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, for nine months. During six 
months of the time the company did ar- 
tillery duty. They were first ordered to 
Washington, D. O, thence to Newport News, 
thence after a week's stay to Yorktown, Va., 
which place they left July 2, 1863, for Get- 
tysburg, Pa. On the way to Gettysburg Mr. 
Hepler was taken sick on board the boat and 
was ordered to the hospital. He refused to 
go and recovered his health on the march. 
The regiment did not reach Gettysburg in 
time to take part in the battle. Mr. Hepler 
was ordered to Williamsport, Pa., thence to 
Warrenton Junction, where he was dis- 
charged, his term of service having expired, 
and came home. He then worked eight 
months for his uncle, John W. Hepler, after 
which he was employed on the public works 
at Girardville and Goss Creek. His next 
employment was as carpenter in the mines, 
building breakers. He had never served 
any apprenticeship at carpentry, but had 
natural aptitude for using tools. He bought 
him a set of rough implements and went to 
work, earning the regular wages of $2.25 to 
$3 per day, and none knew or discovered 
that he was not an instructed carpenter. 
While building one breaker it became neces- 
sary to attach the block and tackle to a point 
fifty feet from the ground. All the other 
workmen refused to attempt the difficult and 
hazardous undertaking, but Mr. Hepler safely 
accomplished the feat, and was rewarded by 
an advance in his wages from $2.50 to $3 
per day. 

In 1866 Mr. Hepler, with his brother An- 
drew as partner, opened a store and hotel, 
his brother attending to the business at home 
while he went out on the road as huckster. 
After five 3 r ears in the business Mr. Isaac 
Hepler sold his interest, and in 1871, his 
brother again being his partner, bought 
property and a hotel at Gratz, Pa. Building 
a store room adjoining the hotel, they put in 
a general stock of merchandise. After five 
years the partnership was dissolved, Isaac 
Hepler taking the store and Andrew the 
hotel. Mr. Hepler has continued the mer- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



K!i.-i 



cantile business alone since 1876, and also 
owns and manages a farm of fifty-five acres. 

Isaac Hepler has been twice married. 
First, August 19, 1SG5, to Miss Matilda 
Knarr, who died August 15, 1869, leaving 
«.ne child, Lewis F., who was killed en the 
railroad March 17, 1891, at the a^e of twenty- 
three. His second marriage, November 25, 
ls7o. was with Amanda, daughter of Joseph 
Harper, deceased. Their children are: < Seorge 
Edgar, Joseph Harper, Lottie Florence, 
Thomas R., Hannah M., Robert Roy, and 
Annie, all at home. 

Mr. Hepler is a Democrat, but is very lib- 
eral in Ids views and hasnever sought office. 
lie is a member of the Lutheran church, 
lie sustains a reputation for the most un- 
swerving rectitude, and enjoys the highest 
esteem of his neighbors. 



The Klinger Family. — George S. and 
Daniel S. Klinger are of German ancestry, 
and are of the fourth generation of their 
family in this country. John Philip 
Klinger, their first progenitor in America, 
and their great-great-grandfather, was born 
in Poffenberfort, Germany, July 11, 1723. 
It is supposed that he married in Germany 
and soon after came to America. He was a 
farmer, and was first settled at Reading, 
Pa., where his wife died. He returned to 
Germany and married again ; then removed 
to Lykens township, Dauphin county, and 
engaged in developing a farm from the 
wilderness. He died in Lykens township, 
September 3D, 1811, leaving a large family, 
some of whom located in Western Pennsyl- 
vania and Ohio. 

George Klinger (1), great-grandfather of 
George S. and Daniel S. Klinger, was born 
in Lykens township, Dauphin county, May 
13, 17(31, and there passed his youth. After 
his marriage he removed to Lower Mahan- 
tango township. Schuylkill county, Pa., 
where he died April 24, 1840. George 
Klinger (2), grandfather of George S. and 
Daniel S., was horn in what was then Ma- 
hantango, but is now Hubly township, 
Schuylkill county, September 16, L787. He 
spent his life in his native township. He 
married Catherine Schmeltz. Their chil- 
dren are: Andrew, died at Mt. Carmel, I'a.. 
was a fanner, married and lefl a family : 

Elizabeth, married Daniel S. Kissinger, both 
died in Lykens township: William, father 
of George S. and Daniel S.; Eli as, married 
Sallie Kissinger, both died in Lykens town- 



ship; Daniel, married Caroline Shadlc, re- 
sides at Seven Points, Northumberland 
county, Pa.; Mary, married, first, Jacob 
Shade, and second, Peter Potticher, deceased, 
resides in Tower City, Pa.: Magdalena, died 
at Seven Points, Pa., wife of Samuel Klinger, 
who survives her. The grandfather died 
November 18, 1838. His widow was again 
married, to George Welker. She died April 
22, 1872. 

William Klinger, father of George S. and 
Daniel S. Klinger, was born in Hubly town- 
ship, Schuylkill county, Pa., April 19, 1820, 
and grew up on the farm on which he was 
born. When a young man he learned the 
art of mason work, which he afterwards prac- 
ticed in addition to farming. He died Sep- 
tember 17, 1872, and is buried at Klinger's 
Church, Lykens township. He married 
Rebecca Schoffstall, who survives him, and 
resides at Gratz, Pa. She was born February 
•_!">, I s-^o, and is a daughter of John and Mag- 
dalena (Hoover) Schoffstall. Their children 
are : George S.; Maria, Mrs. Jacob M. Wiest, 
Lykens township ; Caroline, Mrs. Emanuel 
Miller, Lykens township; Elizabeth, died 
young; Daniel S.; Mary Jane, died young; 
William, a mason ; Tobias, huckster, Gratz, 
Pa.; Louisa, Mrs. Benneville R. Troutman. 
Lykens township: John S., stonemason, 
Hubly township, Schuylkill county; Cathe- 
rine, Mrs. Jacob Williard, Gratz, Pa., and 
Levi. Hubly township, Schuylkill county, 
Pa. 

George S. Klinger was educated in the 
common schools, and grew up on the farm. 
In 1862, at the age of eighteen, he went into 
the army as a substitute for his father, and 
in September of that year was enrolled in 
company F, <>ne Hundred and Seventy- 
third Pennsylvania volunteers : left Harris- 
burg with the regiment early in November. 
This regimen! was composed of companies 
A,D,F,Gand II from Schuylkill county.; 
E from Perry county, and 1\ from Dauphin 
county. It was organized at Camp Cur tin, 
Harrisburg. in < >ctober and November, 1862, 
with-the following field officers: Daniel Neg- 
ley, Schuylkill county, colonel ; Zaccheus P. 
Boyer, Schuylkill county, lieutenant colonel ; 
Grant Weidman, Lebanon county, major. 
On November 30, L862, the regiment moved 
to Washington, D. C, and was ordered to 
Suffolk, Va., hut before reaching Fortress 
Monroe its destination was changed to Nor- 
folk. Upon its arrival there it reported to 
General Veile, and was assigned to duty in 



896 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



guarding the approach to Camp Veile, three 
miles north of Norfolk, where the regiment 
was thoroughly drilled, and detailed to duty 
as follows : Two companies were stationed at 
Norfolk, one at Princess Anne Court House, 
twelve miles southeast of Norfolk, at the in- 
trenched lines running from shore to shore, 
and protecting Norfolk on the north ; an 
officer and twenty men at Swells Point, a 
non-commissioned officer and twenty-five 
men at Cape Henry Lighthouse ; two com- 
panies at the Dorris Mill bridge, or head of 
West .Branch, thirteen miles southwest of 
Norfolk, towards Suffolk ; a non-commis- 
sioned officer and six men as guard to the 
mail boat Arrow, running through Albe- 
marle Sound to Roanoke; a guard at the 
Indian Pole bridge, north of Norfolk ; a 
guard at the Great Bridge, ten miles south 
of Norfolk, at the Albemarle canal ; a guard 
at Princess Anne river, and a guard along 
Farmers' creek. These detachments were 
regularly relieved at intervals of a week. 

Early in May, 1863, the regiment was 
ordered to Norfolk for provost duty, where 
it remained until July 9, and was then sent 
with the One Hundred and Seventy-seventh 
Pennsylvania volunteers to Washington, 
D. C, and thence to Frederick, Md., report- 
ing to General Meade, who was moving in 
pursuit of the Rebel army on its retreat from 
Gettysburg, Pa. It was immediately ordered 
to report to General Howard, in command 
of the Eleventh corps, and was assigned 
to the First brigade of the Second divi- 
sion, in which it was associated with the 
Twenty-seventh and Seventy-third Penn- 
sylvania regiments, and the One Hun- 
dred and Thirty-fourth and One Hundred 
and Fifty-fourth New York regiments. It 
was now subjected to long and tedious 
marches, to which it was little accustomed. 
It crossed the Potomac river at Berlin, four 
miles below Harper's Ferry, and was finally 
settled on guard duty to the Orange and 
Alexandria railroad, at Warrenton Junction, 
Bristow Station and Manassas Junction. On 
August 13, the term of his service having 
expired, the regiment was ordered to Harris- 
burg, Pa., where it was mustered out of ser- 
vice, August 16, 17 and 18, 1863. 

After his discharge from the army, Mr. 
Klinger returned to his home in Schuylkill 
county, and served a short apprenticeship 
with Henry Klinger, stone mason, and sub- 
sequently worked at the trade on his own 
account. In 1870 he bought a saw mill in 



Lykens township, Dauphin count}', Pa., near 
Gratz, which he operated at times, besides 
working at his trade until December 14, 
1883, when he met with a painful accident 
while cutting down 'a tree, being struck on 
the knee by a glancing axe, which severed 
one of the main cords, and left him lame for 
life. In partnership with Samuel Klinger, 
he also owned and operated a threshing ma- 
chine for three or four years. In 1893 he 
sold his saw mill, and turned his attention 
to mercantile business. In 1885, in connec- 
tion with his brother Daniel S., he had 
bought the general stock of goods of William 
Erdman at Gratz, most of which was de- 
stroyed by fire, May 1, 1886. They then 
purchased the site on which they erected 
their present store, which was completed 
in December, 1888, they having, after the 
fire, occupied the Odd Fellows' building with 
their business. Their store is very complete 
and their stock full in all lines of their busi- 
ness. 

Mr. George S. Klinger has never married. 
He is a Democrat, and has been tax collector 
and auditor. He is a member of the Lu- 
theran church. 

Daniel S. Klinger, brother of George S., 
and his partner in business, was born in 
Hubly township, Schuylkill county, Pa., 
and received his primary education in the 
common school. He also attended Freeburg 
Seminary in 1869, and Berrysburg Seminary 
in 1870. He afterwards taught school for 
fifteen winter teums and two summer terms. 
In 1885 he engaged in mercantile business 
with his brother George, as above stated. 

Mr. D. S. Klinger was married in Upper 
Mahantango township, Schuylkill county, 
Pa., February 9, 1873, to Miss Lizzie, daugh- 
ter of Nathan and Rachel (Montelius) Erd- 
man. Their children are : Alvin Lemuel, 
died in infancy ; Meta Maria, Ursula Sadie, 
Eston Dorman, and Guy Raymond, all at 
home. Mr. Klinger is a Democrat. He is 
now serving his second term in council. He 
has also been judge of elections for one 
term. 



Ritzman, A. S., Gratz, Pa., was born iu 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 27, 1857. He is a son of Michael and 
Elizabeth (Hartman) Ritzman. Michael 
Ritzman was born in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county, January 10, 1826, and was 
reared on the farm. After his marriage he 
removed to Washington township, upon a 



DA UPHIN CO UNTY. 



897 



farm, whore he died November 17, 1858. 
His children are: Abby, wile of Hiram 
Knorr, Uniontown, Pa.; Caroline, wife of 
Henry Schoffstall, Sunbury, Pa.; Catherine, 
wife of H. H. Romberger, Gratz, Pa.; and 
A. S. Mrs. Ritzman was married a second 
time, to Abraham Troutman ; they had one 
daughter, Agnes, wife of Charles Buffington, 
Gratz, Pa. 

A. S. Ritzman was only a year and a half 
old when brought by his mother to Lykens 
township on a farm which she bought after 
her husband's death. After mature years he 
attended common schools until he was seven- 
teen, and subsequently studied at Berrysburg 
Seminary for a few terms. In November, 
1S75, he began teaching school in Lykens 
township, and was employed for two terms. 
Considering the salary insufficient compen- 
sation for his time and services, he decided 
to change his occupation. He rented his 
mother's farm on shares, and besides his 
farming operations, conducted also a huck- 
stering business ; in these occupations he 
continued until the spring of 1888, when he 
removed to the town of Gratz to a property 
which he had bought in 1886, and which 
consisted of a house and barn and nine acres 
of land. In 1890 he bought his mother's 
farm of sixty-two acres, situated in Lykens 
township. 

Mr. Ritzman was married, in Lykens town- 
ship, on January 9, 187G, to Miss Amelia, 
daughter of Zacharias and Lvdia (Kissinger) 
Loudenschlager, born in the borough of 
Gratz. Their children were: Henry M., died 
at the age of four rears; Michael E., born 
March 24, 18S1 ; Allan, hum August 12, 
1885; the youngest child died in infancy. 

Mr. Ritzman is a Republican. He was 
elected justice of the peace in 1S89, served 
five years and was re-elected in 1894. He 
also served as councilman I'm- live years, and 
for four years was secretary of the council. 
lie is a member of the Lutheran church ami 
treasurer of the joint congregation. 



Buffington, Daniel, farmer, Gratz, Pa., 
was born in Lykens township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., November 17, 1837; son of 
John E. and Susanna (Artz) Buffington. The 
grandfather, Eli, was a native of Perks 
county, and came to Lykens township and 
lueated on a tract of one hundred and fifty 
acres of timber land, which he cleared for 
fanning purposes. lie married .Miss Eliza- 
beth Kissinger, and their children were: 



Abraham, John, Jacob, Susanna, and one 
chihl not named. lie was a member of the 
German Reformed church, an old line Demo- 
crat, and died at Gratz. The father was horn 
in 1799 in Lykens township, received his 
education in the public schools and then as- 
sisted on his father's farm until he was 
twenty-one years old. He then located in 
Mifflin township on a farm and remained 
there until 1839, when he moved to Lykens 
township, whore he spent the remainder of 
his life. He married Miss Susanna Artz. 
daughter of Jacob Artz, of Schuylkill county. 
Their children wore: Elias, deceased, Han- 
nah, Amos, deceased Caroline, Sarah, Jere- 
miah, Daniel, Susanna, and Maria. The 
father and mother died in 1867 and 1878, 
respectively. The father was a Republican 
and held various township offices. He also 
was a member of the Gorman Reformed 
church, in which he filled several offices. 

Daniel attended school until eight years 
of age, when he began working on the 
homestead, where he remained until he was 
twenty-six years old. He then bought his 
present home of sixty acres, on which he 
erected a fine dwelling house which cost up- 
wards of $5,000. Later he purchased a saw 
and grist mill, and in 1882 bought an- 
other farm of one hundred and eighty-three 
acres. He was married, in 1861, to Miss 
Catharine Hartman,born in 1838; daughter 
of Henry Hartman. Their children are: 
Henry F., who married Miss Liddie Ritzman. 
by whom he has two children : Milton, real 
estate broker, Denver, Col., and Irvin N. Ih 
politics Mr. Buffington is a Republican and 
has served as judge of elections. He is a 
member of the German Reformed church, 
in which he is an elder and Sunday-school 
teacher. 



Coleman, John C, farmer, Gratz, Pa., was 
born October 18, 1852, in Lykens township. 
He is a son of Frederick and Sophia 
(Klinger) Coleman. The grandfather, John 
Coleman, was of Irish descent. The father 
was born in Lykens township in 1S16. He 
received his education in his native place, 
and then followed the occupation of farming, 
lie purchased one hundred acres of land near 
Gratz, and on it made many improvements. 
He was married, in January. 1849, to Miss 
Sophia K linger, horn April 30, 1830; daughter 
of J. P. Klinger Their children are: Mary 

A., wife of Isaac- Daniel; John G, and Dan- 
iel, a school teacher, lie is a life-long Re- 



898 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



publican, and a member of the Lutheran 
church, in which he holds the office of deacon. 
John C. attended the public schools of 
Gratz until eighteen years of age, when he 
began working on the homestead, and also 
worked two years in the mines. In 1874 he 
took charge of the farm and has since culti- 
vated it, and also been engaged in stock rais- 
ing. He was married, in October, 1875, to 
Miss Amanda L. Snyder, born in Lykens 
township in 1855; daughter of Henry Snyder. 
Their children are: Henry L., Fred, Annie 
B., Minnie A., Allen E., deceased, Maggie 
M., Dora R., Flosie S., Elmer H.,and Foster F. 
Mr. Coleman taught school for three terms, 
was tax collector in 1881, and is a Republican 
in politics. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church, in which he fills the office of deacon. 



member of the Lutheran church, of which 
he is an elder and Sunday-school super- 
intendent. 



Coleman, Charles, farmer, Gratz, Pa., 
was born in Lykens township, May 30, 1844. 
He is a son of John and Catharine (Artz) 
Coleman. The grandfather, John Coleman, 
was a farmer by occupation and settled on 
land in Lykens township, which he cleared 
and improved himself. He married a Miss 
Rosina Stine. They had these children : 
John, Charles, Fred, Rosina, Elizabeth, 
Anna May, and Barbara. He was a Demo- 
crat in politics and a member of the Lu- 
theran church. He took part in the war of 
1812. The father resided on a farm of one 
hundred and fifty acres which he cultivated 
and also was engaged in stock raising. He 
was married to Miss Catharine Artz, a native 
of Schuylkill county. Their children were : 
Daniel, Charles, and Lizzie, wife of B. A. 
Boyer. Mr. Coleman took a great delight in 
hunting deer. His death occurred in De- 
cember, 1851. In politics he was a Democrat. 

Charles received his education in the 
schools of his native place, and then engaged 
in farming. He inherited a fondness for 
hunting, and is quite an ardent sportsman. 
He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. 
He was married, October 19, 1869, at Berrys- 
burg, Pa., to Miss Lydia Rine, born in Snyder 
county, March 3, 1850; daughter of John 
Rine. Their children are : George W., born 
July 22, 1870 ; Charles J., deceased ; Mary 
A., born July 28, 1874 ; Jennie, born Decem- 
ber 25, 1880 ; Susan K., born September 18, 
1883; Minnie C, born June 28, 1888, and 
Carrie V., born June 29, 1891 . Mr. Coleman 
is an active politician and has served as tax 
collector and mercantile appraiser. He is a 



Daniel, Uriah H, teacher and farmer, 
Gratz, Pa., was born in Lykens township, 
February 1, 1859. He is a son of George 
and Elizabeth (Hoffman) Daniel. The father 
was born in Lykens township in 1822, 
and was a son of Andrew Daniel. His edu- 
cation was received in the public schools of . 
his native place, after which he assisted his 
father on the homestead until 1868, when he 
moved to Gratz and began to conduct a hotel. 
After remaining there for three years he 
returned to the farm. He was married, in 
1828, to Miss Elizabeth Hoffman, daughter 
of John Hoffman, of Mifflin township, who 
was a soldier in the war of 1812. Their 
children are : Sarah, Elizabeth, Andrew, Ada, 
Uriah H, George F., Mary E., deceased, 
and two who died in infancy. The parents 
still live on the homestead and are members 
of the German Reformed church. In politics 
the father is a Republican. 

Uriah H, after leaving the public school, 
attended Berrysburg Academy and later the 
Millersville State Normal School. He has 
been engaged in teaching school nearly all 
his life, except three years when he was en- 
gaged in mercantile pursuits. In 1891 he 
purchased a farm in Lykens township, to 
which he gives his attention during the sum- 
mer months. He was a member of the Ber- 
rysburg band for eleven years. He was mar- 
ried August 25, 1884, to Miss Ida L. Sitlinger, 
born in Lykens township in 1863 ; daugh- 
ter of Isaac and Maria (Shade) Sitlinger. 
Their children are : Clarence E., Norman 
A., Elsie M., and one who died in infancy. 
Mr. Daniel is a Republican in politics. He 
is a member of the German Reformed church, 
in which he holds the office of deacon. He 
is also superintendent of the Sunday-school. 



Romberger, G. D., life insurance agent, 
Berrysburg, Pa., was born February 28, 1856, 
in Northumberland county ; son of Gilbert 
and Mary (Keihl) Romberger. The father 
was born in Dauphin county, January 19, 
1829. He worked on the farm until eighteen 
years of age and in 1847 went to Georgetown, 
Pa., to learn the saddler trade with Jacob 
Dreivell. He remained there three years, 
then moved to Uniontown, Dauphin county, 
where he followed his trade until 1860, when 
he purchased a farm near Berrysburg, Pa. 




^fjgC@^v£kZ 






DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



901 



Eight years later he sold the farm and pur- 
chased another near Elizabcthvillc, where lie 
remained one year. He next bought a home 
in Berrysburg and was engaged there at his 
trade until a few years before bis death, which 
occurred March 8, 1804. He was married, 
in 1852, to Miss Mary Keihl. Their chil- 
dren are: Elmira M., deceased; Mary A.; 
( ioorge D.; Daniel H.; Rebecca K.; Clara E.; 
Lillie E.; Samuel, deceased; Jerome, deceased ; 
Annie G., deceased; Ralph E.; and five chil- 
dren who died in infancy. 

George D. moved to Lykens Valley with 
his parents when four years old. He assisted 
on the farm and then attended the Berrys- 
burg Seminary, from which institution he 
graduated when twenty years of age. He 
was then principal of the Lower End, Will- 
iams township, school until 1880, when he 
went to Harrisburg and read law two years 
under J. C. McAlarney. After completing 
his law course he formed a co-partnership 
with Hon. W. B. Bechtel, of Reading, Pa., 
in law and the insurance business. Since 
dissolving partnership his entire time has 
been given to life insurance. He was mar- 
ried, in 1880, to Miss Laura Miller, daughter 
of Major Frank Miller, of Berrysburg, Pa. 
Their children are: Florence M., born July 
17, 1882, and died May 26, 1887 ; Daniel B"., 
born January 13, 1884; Lila V., born July 
19, 188G ; one, not named, who was born 
August 21, 1887, and died September 1, 1887 ; 
(le. irge L., born August 10, 18SS ; Willard M., 
born August 6,1889; Naomi R., born Au- 
gust 16, 1800; Mary F., born September 25, 
1891; Franklin G., born December 2, 1893 ; 
and Donald L., born October 16, 1805. 



Romberger, Howard II., merchant, Gratz, 
Pa., was born July 12, 1852, on the old home- 
stead in Lykens township. He is a son of 
Daniel and Hannah (Bergstresser) Romber- 
ger. Howard H. received his education in 
the public schools and the Berrysburg Semi- 
nary. After assisting on his father's farm 
for a time, he began farming fur himself. 
Later he spent four years in preparation for 
the ministry, and began active work in 1881. 
He was connected with the Evangelical 
church and continued preaching for nine 
years, during which time he served various 
places in Carbon, Schuylkill. Lebanon and 
Monroe counties. In L890 he retired from 
the pulpit and moved to Gratz, where he ell- 
gaged iii business. He w.is married, Septem- 
ber 30, 1873, in Berrysburg, to Miss Oatha- 
57 



rine Ritzman, daughter of Michael and Eliza- 
beth Ritzman. Their children are : D. Am- 
brose, born August 10, 1874, a graduate of 
Albright Collegiate Institute. Meyerstown, 
Pa., now principal of the schools at Gratz, 
and Amy Agnes, born September 5, 1882. 
Mr. Romberger is a Republican in politics. 

Scheie, Charles Monroe, farmer, Gratz, 
Pa., was born in Lykens township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 15, 1861. He is a sun 
of Joshua A. and Elizabeth (Raudenbaugh) 
Scheib. The grandfather, Michael B, was 
born in Schuylkill county, and coming 
to Lykens bought a farm of one hundred 
acres, on which he engaged in stock raising. 
He was of German descent, and died in Ly- 
kens township. He was a member of the 
German Reformed church. The fattier was 
an extensive farmer and stock raiser. He 
had a farm of two hundred acres in Lykens 
township. He was married to Elizabeth 
Raudenbaugh, a native of Lykens Valley, 
born in 1837. Their children are: Isaiah, 
Victor, Melindia, Cinderilla, Charles Monroe, 
Wilhelmina, deceased, and two who died in 
infancy. The father died in 1890. He took 
an extremely active part in politics in which 
he was much interested. He was a mem- 
ber of the German Lutheran church, and has 
held various church offices. Charles Mon- 
roe received his education in the public 
schools of his native place. He assisted on 
the farm, and in 1803 purchased the Inane- 
stead, where he now resides and engages in 
stock raising. He was married, in 1883, to 
Miss Hannah E. Klinger, born in 186-3. a 
daughter of John Klinger. Their children 
are: Emma J., Ira, Bursia X.. Amelia C, 
and one who died in infancy. He is a Re- 
publican in politics, and a member of the 
( ierman Reformed church. 



Schmenky, John, M. D., was born in 
Upper Mahanoy township. Northumberland 
county, January 27, 1832. He is a sun of 
John and Mary (Thower) Schmenky. The 
grandfather, a native of Germany, located 
in Lancaster county ami engaged in hotel 
keeping. His wife was Susanna Acre, and 
they had a large family. The father was 
burn in Hinklestown and was engaged in 
farming when a buy. 1 le then studied medi- 
cine and practiced in Millersburg and var- 
ious other places. His death occurred in 
L855. His wife died subsequently, aged sev- 
enty-one years. Their children wen-: Emma, 



902 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



deceased, John, Henry, Elizabeth, Aaron, 
and Susan. John attended public school 
until he was fourteen, then entered the school 
at Bloomfield, Perry county, and then Sun- 
bury. In 1850 he began to read medicine 
with his father, and in 1851 read one year 
with Dr. Masters, Hinklestown. In 1852 he 
entered the Pennsylvania Medical College of 
Philadelphia, from which institution he grad- 
uated in 1854. He began the practice of his 
profession with his father and one year later 
located at Gratz. In 1871 and 1872 he served 
in the State Legislature. He was married, 
December 22, 1859, to Miss Elizabeth Wiest, 
daughter of Jacob Wiest. Their children are : 
Gorney M., Allan Beecher, Harry Newton, 
John, and Bertha May. In politics he is a 
Democrat and is now filling the office of bur- 
gess. He has served a number of years as 
school director. His wife is a member of the 
Evangelical church. 



Lodge No. 565, I. 0. 0. F.; Grangers, No- 
530; and of Washington Camp, No. 575, P. O- 
S. of A. He is also a member of the Lu- 
theran church, in which he holds the office 
of deacon, besides being Sunday-school super- 
intendent. 



Moyer, John, farmer, Gratz, Pa., was born 
in Gratz, March 19, 1840. He is a son of 
George and Margaret (Tallman) Moyer. The 
father was born in Germany, in 1801, and 
learned there the trade of blacksmith. In 
1821 he came to the United States in a sail- 
ing vessel, and landed at Baltimore. He 
first located in Gratz, and later moved to 
Gratz, where he purchased a shop and began 
blacksmithing, which occupation he con- 
tinued all his life. He married Miss Mar- 
garet Tallman, also a native of Germany. 
Their children were: Mary, deceased; Louisa; 
George D, deceased ; Charles H., deceased ; 
John ; Amanda, deceased ; and Caroline. 
The father died in 1876, and the mother 
in 1864. They were members of the Lu- 
theran church. . The father was a Democrat. 

John received his education in the public 
schools of Gratz, Pa. He then learned the 
furniture manufacturing business in Harris- 
burg, where he worked for six years. He 
then moved to Gratz and farmed the home- 
stead. In 1882 he bought additional land 
and made numerous improvements on it. 
He was married, in 1861, to Miss Sarah Gon- 
ser, born in Northumberland county, Janu- 
ary 4, 1841 ; daughter of Daniel Gonser. 
Their children are : Charles P., Daniel G., 
William O., a graduate of Millersville Normal 
School, and principal of the high school 
Gratz, and Sadie. In politics Mr. Moyer is 
a Democrat and served as member of city 
council, as chief burgess, as school director 
and also as tax collector. He is a member of 



McCluee, Charles B., M. D., Gratz, Pa., 
was born in Washington township, July 5, 
1856. He is a son of David K. and Ann 
Eliza (Beshler) McClure. The maternal 
grandfather, H. C. Beshler, was born in New 
Berlin, Snyder county. He took a medical 
course at the University of Pennsylvania, 
and then practiced for several years in var- 
ious places. Finally he located in Berrys- 
burg, where he died, December 25, 1888, at 
the age of eighty-one. He was married to 
Miss Mary Ann Boyer, of Freeburg, Pa. 
The father was born in Chester county, Pa., 
in 1825. He grew to manhood on the farm, 
and later worked at the forge. He' moved 
to Berrysburg and at that time owned what 
is known as the Oakdale Forge. The father 
now lives with one of his daughters in Upper 
Paxton township ; the mother died in 1882, 
and is buried at Berrysburg. They were mar- 
ried in 1855, and their children were : Charles 
B., Emma J., H. Joseph, John C, Arthur E., 
and Gertrude. Charles B. received his pri- 
mary education in the public schools of 
Washington township and the Berrysburg 
Seminary. In 1883 he began reading medi- 
cine with his grandfather, and in the fall 
entered the University of Pennsylvania, 
where he remained two years. He then as- 
sisted other physicians until 1887, when he 
entered Western Pennsylvania College, Pitts- 
burgh, from which institution he graduated 
in 1888, and then located in Luzerne county. 
After practicing at various places he came 
to Gratz in 1894, and has secured an excel- 
lent practice. He was married, in Blooms- 
burg, Pa., October 4, 1887, to Miss Lizzie 
Hower, daughter of Jackson Hower, by 
whom he had two children : A. Carlton and 
Hiester N. Dr. McClure is a Republican, 
also a member of Patriotic Order Sons of 
America and Patrons of Husbandry. He is 
a member of the Reformed Church. 



Miller, John C, merchant and news- 
dealer, Lykens, Pa., was born in Annville, 
Lebanon county, January 18, 1844. He is 
a son of Daniel and Lousia (Karmany) 
Miller. The grandfather, John, was born 
in Lebanon county, and was of German de- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



:mi:; 



scent. The father was born in 1818 and was 
a weaver by occupation. He was married 
to Miss Lousia Karmany, daughter of John 
Karmany. Their children are: John O, 
Elizabeth, wife of Francis Feindt, and Daniel 
A. The father now resides in Lykens. John 
C. received his education in the public schools 
of Annville until he was fifteen years of age. 
He then worked on the farm for a time and 
later learned shoemaking. In 18G1 he en- 
listed at Annville in company K, Ninety- 
third regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
under Captain Daugherty and Colonel Mc- 
Carthy. The battles in which he partici- 
pated are as follows, viz: Williamsburg, 
Va., Fair Oaks, Seven Days, Antietam, 
Fredericksburg, Salem Heights, Rappahan- 
nock, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Har- 
bor, Petersburg, Cbarlestown, Winchester, 
Fisher Hill, and Cedar Creek. He was 
wounded, May 31, 1865, at Salem Heights, 
and lay in the hospital four months, and was 
honorably discharged at Washington at the 
close of the war. He then came to Lykens 
and attended school one year, after which he 
began his present business. He was mar- 
ried, at Lewisburg, Pa., February, 1S69, to 
Miss Louisia Reyman, daughter of John 
Reyman. Their children are: Gertrude and 
John. In politics he is a Republican and a 
member of Lodge No. 535, I. 0. 0. F.; Post 
No. 252, G. A. R.; commander of latter in 
1896. He is connected with the Lutheran 
church. 



Matter, Balthaser, farmer, Berrysburg, 
Pa., was born in Mifflin township, April 22, 
1864. He is a son of Balthaser and Magde- 
lina (Littick) Matter. The father was en- 
gaged in farming in Mifflin township. He 
married Miss Magdelina Gesemen. Their 
children are: William, Benjamin, George, 
Daniel, John, Jacob, Mary, Elizabeth, and 
four who are deceased. He married, sec- 
ondly, Miss Littick, by whom he had one 
child, Balthaser. He was a member of the 
Lutheran church, and politically was a 
Democrat. His death occurred in 1869, and 
his widow lias since married Peter Botololf. 
Balthaser received his education in the pub- 
lic schools and the Berrysburg Academy. 
He has been engaged in farming continu- 
ously since that time. He married, in 1S87, 
Miss Sarah Sebold, by whom he had five 
children, viz: Aaron J., Warren B., Beulah, 
Charles H., and Verna. He is a Republican 
and a member of the Reformed church. 



Blyler, Simon, stonemason, was born Feb- 
ruary 2S, 1S23, in Schuylkill county. He is 
a son of Michael and Maria (Burket) Blyler, 
whose family consisted of these children : 
Daniel, deceased; Solomon, Elias, Philip, 
Betsey, Kate, Edward, and Julia. Simon re- 
ceived his education in Mifflin township. 
Clarion county, to which place his parents 
moved while he was yet quite young. After 
working for a few years on the farm he 
learned the trade of masonry and continued 
at this occupation sixteen years. He en- 
listed at Harrisburg in company A, Fif- 
tieth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. 
He was discharged in 1863 in Washington 
for disability. For sixteen years he was en- 
gaged at various occupations, and then en- 
tered the service of the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, working as stonemason. In 
1895 he came to Gratz, where he has since 
resided. He was married, August 28, 1844, 
to Miss Caroline Klinyer, a native of Lykens 
Valley. His wife died September 7, 1895. 
Their children are: William, Shamokin, 
Pa.; Samuel, hotel proprietor, Lebanon, 
Pa.; Preston, Bear Valley, Pa.; Daniel, hotel 
proprietor, Gratz, Pa.; Frank, tinsmith, 
Lebanon ; Emma : Joseph ; Alice, deceased, 
and Charles M. In politics Mr. Blyler is a 
Republican, and a member of Kissinger Post, 
G. A. R., of Gratz. 



MIFFLIN TOWNSHIP. 



Romberger, Joseph F., manager of the 
Western Union Telegraph office, and general 
merchant, Berrysburg, Pa., was born in 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
February 4, 1848; son of Benjamin and 
Amelia (Fisher) Romberger. He attended 
the common schools of Mifflin township in 
the winter and worked on the farm in sum- 
mer. He also studied at Berrysburg Semi- 
uary for five terms, thirteen weeks each sea- 
son, after which he taught in Mifflin town- 
ship for two terms. At the age of fifteen he 
became clerk in the store of Frederick 
Weaver, Berrysburg. Several years later 
Mr. Weaver having sold out. he was for a year 
in the store of William Boyer, at Gratz. He 
then spent three months as clerk in a store in 
Illinois. Returning, he became clerk for 
George Lark, Berrysburg, until, with his 
father as his partner, be bought the stock of 
Dr. John Beshler ; the firm conducted a gen- 



904 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



eral mercantile business for several years. 
Mr. Joseph Romberger subsequently bought 
his father's interest, carrying on the business 
on his own account, and has succeeded in 
building up an extensive trade. He also 
deals largely in live stock and horses, ship- 
ping from the West. He has a farm of one 
hundred and forty acres, for which he paid 
$9,000. He built a fine dwelling in Berrys- 
burg and a store, expending upon them 
over $12,000. In earlier life he was a 
butcher. For four years and a half he was 
postmaster. 

Joseph F. Romberger was married, in Jan- 
uary, 1870, to Mary S., daughter of Henry 
Yeager, born in Washington township. 
They have two children : Grace, wife of 
John Stover, clerk in her father's store ; and 
Harry B., who died in early youth. Mr. 
Romberger belongs to the Independent Or- 
der of Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias. 
He is a member of the Lutheran church, 
and has been deacon, trustee and superin- 
tendent of the Sunday-school. Mr. Romber- 
ger is one of the solid men of the town. His 
success in business demonstrates his ability 
in that line. He also stands in the lead in 
social circles. 



Deiblek, John W., farmer, and late pro- 
prietor of the Dei bier House, Berrysburg, 
Pa., was born on a farm in Mifflin township, 
December 25, 1846. His grandfather, John 
Deibler, was born in Dauphin county, Pa. 
He was of German descent and was a farmer 
and stockman. He married Catherine Mil- 
ler, by whom he had two children : Cath- 
erine, wife of Jacob Hartm an, farmer, Mifflin 
township, and George. John Deibler and 
his wife both died in Mifflin township. They 
were members of the Reformed church. He 
was a Democrat of the old school. 

George Deibler, father of John W., wasborn 
in Mifflin township, Dauphin county,in 1826. 
He obtained a fair education in the subscrip- 
tion schools of the township, grew up on his 
father's farm and made farming his occupa- 
tion. He had a grist and flour mill in Wash- 
ington township, owned large tracts of cleared 
and timber land, and dealt extensively in 
cattle, horses, etc. George Deibler was mar- 
ried, in the township, to Hannah Deibler, 
born in Lykens Valley. They had six chil- 
dren : John W.; George, farmer, Mifflin town- 
ship; Daniel J., on the homestead ; Emma, 



deceased, wife of Emanuel Hoy, of Up- 
per Paxton township ; William H., farmer, 
Berrysburg ; and Amanda J., wife of J. M. 
Matters, Upper Paxton township. Mr. and 
Mrs. George Deibler were members of the 
United Brethren church. They died on the 
homestead. Mr. Deibler was at first a Dem- 
ocrat, but in later life acted with the Repub- 
lican party. 

John W. Deibler received his early educa- 
tion in the district schools of the township, 
attending a short time each winter, and 
working during the rest of the j'ear on the 
farm. He was very fond of reading and 
educated himself by means of good books 
and periodicals. He remained on the home- 
stead until he was twenty-two, when he be- 
gan farming on his own account. He began 
with a tract of land comprising one hun- 
dred and forty-seven acres, which he cleared 
and modified with substantial improvements. 
In 1890 he sold his finely improved farm 
and bought a hotel in Berrysburg, now 
known as the Deibler House, which he con- 
ducted four years and six months with good 
success, good management making the in- 
vestment a profitable one. He sold the house 
to its present proprietor, Mr. Charles Etz- 
weiler, in 1894. He then bought several lots 
in the village and built also, at a cost of 
$4,000, one of the finest dwelling houses in 
Berrysburg, putting in all the modern con- 
veniences. 

John W. Deibler was married, in 1868, to 
Eliza A. Ho} T , born in Upper Paxton town- 
ship. They had no children. Mrs. Deibler 
died in 1872. Mr. Deibler's second wife, 
whom he married in 1873, was Miss Katie 
Wert, born in Northumberland county, Pa.; 
daughter of Michael Wert, an extensive 
mill owner in that county. They have one 
child, Harry C, born in 1874, and educated 
in the common schools of Mifflin township 
and in Beriysburg Academy. He has great 
natural musical talent, which has been finely 
cultivated; he is gifted as a writer and com- 
poser of music. He is agent for several 
manufacturing firms in the State. His future 
appears to be brilliant with promise. 

Mr. Deibler is a Republican. He was 
school director for three years and has held 
the office of constable and other positions of 
responsibility in the township. • He has much 
business ability and is respected for his per- 
sonal worth. He is a member of the Re- 
formed church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



905 



Rombergkk, Henry A., | II istmaster and 

general merchant, Curtin, Pa., was born in 
Mifflin township, August t, 1N55. I lis father, 
David Romberger, was born in the same 
township, September 12, L823, and is a 
brother of Benjamin, and uncle of Joseph F. 
Romberger, sketches of whose lives appear 
elsewhere in tins volume. He cultivated and 
greatly improved one hundred acres of land 
in Mifflin township, and was also engaged in 
raising live stock. David Komberger was 
married in the township to Anna Mary 
Swab. Of their six children are living : 
Elizabeth; Henry A.; Anna Mary E., wife of 
\V. II. Hoover, Curtin, Pa.; and Franklin P., 
farmer on the homestead. Catherine and 
George H. both died young. Mr. Romberger 
died May 11, 1887. He was a Democrat and 
held some township offices. He was a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church, old school, and 
was very active in church matters as deacon, 
elder and Sunday-school teacher. Mrs. David 
Romberger is now sixty-nine years of age, 
and resides on the homestead. 

Henry A. Romberger attended the com- 
mon schools in the winter months and 
worked on the farm during the rest of the 
year. He also studied for six terms at Ber- 
rvsburg Academy, after which he taught 
school in the township for eight terms, while 
still farming on the homestead and carrying 
on the produce business. After this he was 
for five years engaged in shipping produce 
and grain to the Lykens Valley coal district, 
which he made a successful business. He 
then bought of Mrs. M. P. Mattis the store 
and stock at Curtin, Pa., for which be paid 
§5,75(1, and on March 13, L885,witb stock to 
the value of $4,000, began a general mercan- 
tile business, which he conducted for more 
than eleven years, meeting with great suc- 
cess and building up a good trade. He also 
dealt in grain seeds, etc. On March 1.6,1896, 
Mr. Romberger sold this business to William 
P. Shaffer, of Mandata P. 0., Northumber- 
land county, Pa. 

Henry A. Romberger was married, in Mif- 
flin township, February 21, 1885, to Eliza 
Koppenheffer, born in Upper l'axton town- 
ship, Dauphin county, July 5. 1862; daughter 
of Moses and Elizabeth (Ritznian) Koppeii- 
heffer; her father was a retired fanner and 
stockman, and a resident of Upper l'axton 
township. Mr. and Mrs. Romberger have 
one child. Charles A., born December 17. 
L892. Mr. Romberger is a Democrat. He 
is a member of the election board and was 



elected township clerk in bs ( .)5. He was ap- 
pointed postmaster under President Cleve- 
land's first administration and re-appointed 
under the second. He is a member of St. 

John's Lutheran church, and is prominent 
and active in all church matters. He has 
been a Sunday-school teacher nearly all his 
life and superintendent of the Sunday-school 
several times. He is a deacon and served 
on the committee which drafted the by-laws 
of the church. He always takes his full 
share in every good enterprise. Although 
retired from general business Mr. Romberger 
still cultivates a small farm of twenty-three 
acres. He is popular with all classes, for all 
recognize his personal worth and good will. 



Buffington, Cyktjs F., justice of the peace 
and carriage builder, Uniontown, Pa., was 
born in Mifflin township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., September 24, 1839. His father, John 
Buffington, was born in Lykens Valley in 
1818, and now resides in Uniontown. He 
was a farm laborer in his younger days, and 
in later life worked at carriage and wagon 
making in Uniontown. He married Delia 
Prance, born in Lykens Valley, and died in 
1858. They had twelve children : Cyrus F.: 
Sarah, wife of John Klinger; William : Han- 
nah, deceased; Solomon: Mary, deceased: 
Christina, wife of Isaac Groff; Elizabeth: 
Harriet, wife of William Drum ; Adam, and 
two who died in infancy. Mr. Buffington is 
a member of the United Brethren church, 
has been both deacon and elder, and is a 
class leader. He has been a resident of 
Uniontown for over fifty years, is well and 
favorably known, and universally honored. 
He has been foremost iii every movement to 
better the social condition and material pros- 
perity of the community. 

Cyrus F. Buffington attended school for a 
short time in Washington township: the re- 
mainder of his education was received in 
Uniontown. He hired to do farm work at 
ten years of age. and for four years worked 
for his board. He began to learn the trade 
of a millwright, and spent one year at this 
work, hut changed his plan, and worked for 
three years as apprentice with his father at 
wagon making, lie afterwards began the 
business of carriage making on his own ac- 
count, and carried it on successfully for five 
vears. In 180(5 he admitted bis brother to 
partnership, and since that time the firm of 
Buffington & Bro. have conducted a carriage 
and wagon factory which yields to none in 



906 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the State for first-class workmanship. They 
have built a large factory, costing $1,000, and 
furnished it with the best machinery. 

Mr. Buffington has been justice of the 
peace for fifteen years, elected on the Repub- 
lican ticket. He administers the law and 
dispenses justice with ability and imparti- 
ality. He is a member of the borough coun- 
cil and the school board. 

Cyrus F. Buffington was married, at Berrys- 
burg, in 1862, to Caroline Bingaman, a native 
of Lower Mahanoy township, Northumber- 
land county, Pa ; she died in 1884. They had 
five children : Henry, educated at Lebanon 
Valley College, Annville, Pa., minister in the 
United Brethren church; Irwin, carpenter, 
deceased, was suffocated in the mines at Sha- 
mokin in 1894 ; John, Flora, and one that 
died in infancj^. Mr. Buffington married 
again March 17, 1885 ; his second wife was 
Maria Dunkelberger. Their children are 
Lloyd D. and Emma. Mr. Buffington is a 
member of the United Brethren church, Sun- 
day-school superintendent, trustee, deacon, 
and elder. He has the business virtues in 
due proportion ; is industrious, enterprising, 
frugal and intelligent. He is also genial in 
spirit and manner, and is well liked by his 
neighbors. 



Buffington, William, is the brother and 
partner of Cyrus F. Buffington. He was 
born in Uniontown, March IS, 1845. He 
took the ordinary course of instruction at the 
schools of Uniontown, after which he worked 
for three years on the farm. He spent one 
year at the millwright trade, and then worked 
at the coal breakers for two years. He has 
been in partnership with his brother in the 
carriage building business since 1866. 

William Buffington was married, at Berrys- 
burg, in 1861, to Catherine A. Souder, born 
in Montgomery county, Pa. Their children 
are : William W., a mechanic ; Harry, re- 
siding at Shamokin ; Anna, and John, died 
young. Mr. Buffington is a Republican. In 
business capacity and the elements of charac- 
ter that secure success, as well as in personal 
worth, he is a good match for his excellent 
brother and partner, and is his peer in the 
social realm. He is a member of the United 
Brethren church. 



Klinger, William, farmer, was born in 
Lykens township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 7, 1840. His grandfather, Peter 
Klinger, was a farmer of Lykens Valley, and 



had a grist mill in Lykens township. He 
was a Democrat. He had ten children. He 
was a member of the Lutheran church. 

John A. Klinger, father of William 
Klinger, was one of the ten children of Peter 
Klinger, and was born in Lykens township. 
He was a farmer, and in 1840 settled on 
seventy- five acres of land in Mifflin town- 
ship, built a house of brick manufactured on 
the farm, the house costing $2,000 ; also built 
a barn, set out an orchard and made other 
improvements. He raised stock for home 
markets. He married, in Lykens township, 
in 1835, Lydia Dornheim, born in that town- 
ship. They had eight children : Ljrdia, de- 
ceased, wife of Gotlieb Quiner; Samuel, 
farmer, of Powell's Valley;. William ; Caro- 
line, wife of Jere Carl, plasterer, Williams- 
town ; Mary A., Mrs. Edward Lenker, Upper 
Paxton township ; John H, farmer, Wash- 
ington township ; Daniel D., died young ; 
Charles, burned to death in infancy. Mr. 
Klinger died in 1885, and Mrs. Klinger in 
1894. He was a Democrat in politics. 

In the church of which he was a member, 
the Lutheran, he held all the offices, trustee, 
deacon, elder, Sunday-school teacher, and 
superintendent. He was numbered among 
the brave and patient toilers who redeem the 
country from the wilderness and introduce 
civilization. Only the most sturdy virtue, 
manifesting itself in industry, frugality and 
prudence, can accomplish such valuable re- 
sults. Such were the characteristics of Mr. 
John A. Klinger. 

William Klinger received four months' 
schooling in the winter of each year, and 
from early boyhood was accustomed to hard 
work on the farm, helping his father to clear 
and cultivate the homestead. On that farm 
he remained all his life, and purchased the 
farm after his father's death. 

William Klinger was married, in Washing- 
ton township, in February, 1869, to Hannah 
Eliza Kemmerer,born in Upper Paxton town- 
ship, November 1, 1846; daughter of Chris- 
tian and Catherine (Fisher) Kem merer, na- 
tives of Dauphin county. Mr. Kemmerer 
was a farmer, and died at Elizabethville in 
1882; his wife died in 1880. The children 
of Mr. and Mrs. Klinger are: Fannie Elta, 
born February, 1871, attended school in the 
township ; John A., born January 20, 1872, 
educated in township schools and Berrys- 
burg Seminary ; for five terms taught school 
in Mifflin township. 
Mr. Klinger is a Democrat. He takes a 



DA r rnm count v. 



907 



deep interest in educational matters. He is 
a member of the Lutheran church, and was 
a deacon and a Sunday-school teacher. He 
is prominent in all good works. 

Latsha, John J., miller and farmer, was 
born in Jackson township, Northumberland 
county, Pa., May 12, 1856. 

Henry Latsha, his great-grandfather, was 

a native of Berks county, I'a., and after- 
wards removed to Northumberland eounty. 
On his way to that county to pay for his 
land he was lost and spent the night in the 
mountains. It was in the dead of winter, 
and Ins feet became frozen, and had to be 
amputated. He owned a large tract of land 
in Northumberland county, all in its native 
forest. 

Henry Latsha (2), grandfather of John J. 
Latsha, was born in Berks county, Pa. He 
was a farmer, and owned four farms in 
Northumberland county, in Jackson town- 
ship. He married Miss Emerich ; they had 
four- children : Henry, Jacob, Michael, and 
Elizabeth, wife of Henry Rogers, all of whom 
are deceased. The grandfather died in Jack- 
son township, Northumberland county, as also 
did his wife. Owing to an accident which 
happened to the pastor on his way to the 
funeral, Mr. Latsha was buried without 
clergical ministrations. He was a member of 
the Lutheran church. His politics were 
Democratic He was a prominent citizen. 

Henry Latsha (3), father of John J., was 
born in Jackson township, Northumberland 
county, Pa., in 1802. He was a farmer, and 
cultivated a farm of one hundred acres up to 
the time of his death. lie was also engaged 
in stock raising. Mr. Latsha was married, 
in Jackson township, to Mrs. Elizabeth 
Blosser, of the same township. They had six 
children : David, deceased ; Mary, deceased, 
wife of William DeW'itt : Henry, farmer of 
Northumberland county ; Michael and Peter, 
deceased, and one child died in infancy. Mrs. 
Elizabeth Latsha died on the homestead. 
Mr. Latsha was married again, to Margaret 
Lees, a native of Northumberland county, by 
whom he had four children : Sarah, wife of 
Henry Deppen, of Northumberland county; 
Harriet, wife of David Bohner, of Northum- 
berland county; Samuel, farmer. Lower Ma- 
hanoy township, Northumberland county, 
and John J. The father died in January, 
1856. He was a member of the Lutheran 
church, and Democratic in politics. His 
widow was again married, her second hus- 



band being Peter Leitz. farmer, Northum- 
berland county. They had no children. 
Mrs. Beitz died in 1870. 

John J. Latsha was born five months after 
his father's death, and having but slender 
educational advantages was compelled to 
make up the deficiency as far as possible by 
his own efforts. At twelve years of age he 
came to Mifrlin township, Dauphin county, 
and worked on the farm of John Lark for 
one year for his board and clothing. He 
next spent four years with his stepfather on 
the homestead, after which he worked in the 
cotton factory at Uniontown, Dauphin 
county, for eight mouths, and then again at 
farm labor for three years. He was next at 
milling for a year and a half, then at farm- 
ing in Ogle county, 111., for two years; then 
at home for a short time; then farming one 
season in Nebraska ; then home again, and 
ran a threshing machine for two years: then 
having sold out this business, he tried trad- 
ing in Lykens Valley for three years, and 
found it very profitable. After this Mr. 
Latsha rented the farm of John Snyder,near 
Berrysburg, and settled down to farming for 
eleven years. In 1S95 he returned to Union- 
town and operated a grist mill and a saw 
mill with fair success. 

John J. Latsha was married, at Elizabeth- 
ville, January 1, 1881, to Emma Meckley, 
born in Jackson township, Dauphin count v. 
September 6, 1857, died December 31, 1881. 
They had one child, which died. He mar- 
ried again, at Berrysburg, April "27, 1882, 
his second wife being Susan Snyder, born 
October 9, 1849, at Uniontown ; daughter of 
John Snyder, and granddaughter of that 
John Snyder who laid out Uniontown. Their 
children are: John Snvder, born February 
15, 1SS3, and Annie E.,born April 13, 1SS7. 
Mr. Latsha bought his present home in 1884, 
paying for it $1.8511; he lias substantially 
improved it. He lost his mill by the flood 
of 1892, and rebuilt it at a cost of $800. 

He is a Republican, is a member of the 
Uniontown council, is a member of the Re- 
formed church, has been deacon, and is 
elder, and secretary of the Sunday-school. 
He is a prominent man. and is regarded as 
one of the solid and square members of the 
business community, and a worthy and 
honorable citizen. 



BONAWITZ, JONATHAN, farmer, was born in 
Mifflin township, Dauphin county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 27, 183:1. (ieorge Honawitz, his 



908 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



grandfather, was the son of a German who 
came from the Fatherland to Pennsylvania, 
and became a farmer. George was born in 
Berks county, learned tailoring, and worked 
at the trade both in Berks county and in 
Mifflin township, Dauphin count3 r , where he 
came while still a young man. In this 
township he bought one hundred acres of 
land, part of which he cleared, and built on 
it a log house and barn, and made other im- 
provements. Here he engaged in farming 
and stock raising. He married a Miss Kop- 
penheffer; their family consisted of six chil- 
dren. His wife dying, he married a Miss 
Matter ; her children were eight in number. 
George Bonawitz died in Mifflin township. 
He was an old line Whig. He belonged to 
the Lutheran church, new school. 

John Bonawitz, father of Jonathan, at- 
tended subscription schools, and obtained a 
fair education. He went to farming and 
stock raising upon a farm of one hundred 
and sixty acres, on which he had built a 
dwelling and other needful structures. He 
married Sallie Schoffstall, born in Lykens 
township. They had five children, of whom 
Jonathan is the only survivor ; Kate, Polly, 
Henry, and Sarah, wife of Jacob Lesker, all 
being deceased. The mother dying in 1840, 
Mr. Bonawitz married Kate Harman, widow 
of John Mossner. They had no children. 
John Bonawitz died on the homestead in 
1884. He was an old line Whig, and be- 
longed to the Lutheran church, old school, 
and took an active part in church matters. 
He was a well-known citizen, and was uni- 
versally liked. 

Jonathan Bonawitz attended subscription 
schools and public schools during the win- 
ter, and worked on the farm in summer. He 
became a farmer, lived all his life on the 
homestead, and took care of his father in his 
old age. He cultivated one hundred and 
thirty acres of land, on which he made many 
improvements. Jonathan Bonawitz was 
married, in Halifax township, in August, 
1861, to Margaret, daughter of Henry Put- 
ter of that township, born in Millersburg, 
Pa., in 1840. Their children were: Mary, 
wife of Peter Stine; Charles, farms the 
homestead ; William E., physician at Fish- 
erville, Jackson township ; Katie and 
Frances, both in the millinery business at 
Berrysburg. Katie attended the Westches- 
ter State Normal School. Mr. Bonawitz is 
a Republican. He has been school director 
for one term, also tax collector, assessor and 



supervisor of roads. He is a member of the 
old Lutheran church, a Sunday-school teacher 
and superintendent. He is also the leader 
of the choir, and has been organist of the 
church from boyhood. He has been an ex- 
cellent singer in his day. He is a favorite 
both in church circles and in political life. 
His home is a musical one, all the children 
being musicians. It is a delightful family, 
and a fountain of good to the community. 

Stine, Peter E., son-in-law of Mr. Bona- 
witz, was born in Washington township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., Sej)tember 23, 1861. 
His father was Peter L. Stine, and his grand- 
father Peter John Stine, a farmer of Lykens 
township. Peter L. Stine was born in that 
township in 1827. He was a farmer, and had 
a grist mill in Washington township for 
seventeen years. In 1885 he engaged in 
mercantile business in Elizabethville, Pa., 
meeting with success. He was married, in 
Lykens township, to Elizabeth Buffington, 
born in Lykens Valley ; she died in 1892. 
Their children were: Ellen, wife of C. A. 
Deibler, farmer of Mifflin township ; Sarah, 
wife of Daniel J. Deibler, Mifflin township ; 
Isaac T., farmer and miller, Lykens town- 
ship ; Catherine, wife of Edward Martin, 
Kansas; Peter E.; David C, at home; 
John J., died aged four years ; Hany W., with 
his father ; Carrie, wife of Charles Cooper, 
farmer, Washington township ; Samuel T., 
with his father. Peter L. Stine is now in 
the drug business in Elizabethville. He is 
a Democrat, and has held various township 
offices, including that of school director. He 
is a member of the Reformed church. 

Peter E. Stine received a fair education in 
the schools of Washington township and at 
Berrysburg Seminary, which he attended for 
one term. He worked on the farm for his 
father until he was twenty years of age, 
after which he was clerk for Frederick 
Weaver in Elizabethville for four years. 
For seven years afterwards he managed busi- 
ness for his father. On March 25, 1892, he 
removed to Mifflin township and embarked 
in the creamery business, establishing a plant 
which cost $4,000, including a cider press 
and chop mill. He pays the farmers in the 
region over $1,000 per month for milk. He 
has also a branch creamery in Northumber- 
land county, which cost over $1,000. In this 
business he is meeting with success. Peter 
E. Stine was married, in Mifflin township, in 
1885, to Mary F., daughter of Jonathan Bon- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



909 



awitz, born in May. \swi. 11 ieir children 
are: Amy J., Karl A.., Clayton E., ami Hu- 
bert X. Mr. Stine is a Democrat; he was 
for three years auditor. He is a member of 
the Reformed church, and a deacon. He 
has been for twenty years a Sunday-school 
teacher, and for four years a superintendent 
(if the school. The career of Mr. Stine is 
notable and especially interesting to young 
men and boys who have to make their own 
way in the world, lie began with only ten 
cents for capital. By push, pluck and enter- 
prise, coupled with industry and integrity, he 
has made his way into a comfortable busi- 
ness and an assured competence. 



Runk:, Rev. Jacob, retired minister of the 
United Brethren church, residing at Berrys- 
burg. Pa., was horn in Elizabethville, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., July 20, 1835. His grand- 
father, John Jacob Runk, was born in Ger- 
many, April 16, 1763. He came to this 
country early in life and settled in Lykens 
Valley, then a part of Lancaster county. 
He married a Miss Hayman and bought of 
his father-in-law seventy acres of woodland. 
This he cleared and built upon it a dwelling 
and other structures, living at first in a log 
house. He was always a farmer. His chil- 
dren were: Michael, Jacob, Philip, Ludwig, 
John, Susan, Elizabeth, Kate, ami Hannah. 
Mr. Runk and his wife died on the home- 
stead, the former on December 1,1826. They 
were members of the German Reformed 
church. Mr. Runk is a Democrat. 

His son Philip, father of Rev. Jacob Runk, 
was born in Elizabethville in September, 
1805. He had a fairly good German educa- 
tion ami grew up on his father's farm. He 
became a farmer and cultivated eighty acres 
of land: he had also forty acres of timber 
land. He was to some extent a stock raiser. 
lie was married, in Lykens Valley, to Kliza- 
beth Smith, horn in the valley near Eliza- 
bethville, in 1808: daughter of John Adam 
Smith, a farmer of Berks county, of German 
descent. They had. nine children : Mary, de- 
ceased; Susan, deceased, wife of William 
Bordner, Powell's Valley; Rev. Jacob; Chris- 
tina, wife of Henry Buffington, Dauphin 
county, Michael, blacksmith. Pine Grove, 
Pa.; Elizabeth, wife of John Shoop, Ninevah, 
Mo.; Hannah, wife of Klias Shoop. firmer. 
Powell's Valley; Adam, resides in Logans- 
port, 1ml.. and Philip, died young. The 
father died on the homestead in December, 
1874. He was horn a Democrat and died a 



Republican. He was school director, super- 
visor and a member of the United Brethren 
church, in which he was a class leader and 
trustee. His wife also took an active part in 
church affairs. She died on the homested in 
1877. 

Jacob Runk attended a German school in 
Powell's Valley, kept in the basement of a 
private house, and afterwards went to Eng- 
lish and German schools of the township. 
From eight to twenty-one years of age be 
worked on his father's farm. He educated 
himself by reading and observation, and 
took up preaching. He was licensed to 
preach, and after taking a three years : course 
in theology was ordained to the ministry 
in the United Brethren church by the con- 
ference held at Schuvlkill Haven, Pa., in 
1859. 

Mr. Runk's first field of labor in the Lord's 
vineyard was near Reading, Berks county, 
Pa., where he spent a short time. He went 
thence to Lebanon circuit, and remained 
two years; thence to Hummelstown one 
year; thence to Lykens Valley; thence to 
Middleburg, Snyder county, two years; to 
Reading Station two years; to Bethlehem, 
Northampton county, three years; to Salem 
church, Lebanon, as station preacher, two 
years. He was then presiding elder for four 
years. He went then to the town of Lykens 
for three years; thence to Jacksonville cir- 
cuit two years; to Lykens Valley circuit two 
years. Thence he went to Bellevue, Lebanon 
county, and was one year on Bellevue circuit; 
thence to Allentown two years. Mr. Runk 
was again elected presiding elder in 1888, 
and removed to Berrysburg, where he has 
since resided. After serving four years as 
presiding elder he retired to his fine farm of 
thirty-eight acres, on which he has his home. 
Several churches have been built up under 
his supervision, lie lias been three times a 
delegate to general conference: at Dayton, 
Ohio, in 187:'.; Westtidd. 111., 1877; and 
York, Pa., 1889. He still takes an active 
part in church matters. 

Rev. Jacob Runk was married, in.Union- 
town. Mifflin township, Dauphin county. 
I'm., to Henrietta Geist, horn in Uniontown, 
August 21, 1843: daughter of Conrad Geist, 
a preacher of the United Brethren church. 
They have five children: Cora M.. horn 
April H». 1865. wife of Rev. Charles Mutch, 
a United Brethren preacher, of Shamokin, 
Northumberland county: Anna 1.. horn 
September 7, 1867: M. Kl lie. born January 



910 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



2, 1870, wife of Prof. Daniel Romberger, 
Williamstown,Pa., died June 5,1893; Irvin, 
born August 23, 1874, teacher, now studying 
at Lebanon Valley College. Mrs. Henrietta 
Runk died August 28, 1874. She was a de- 
vout Christian, and a talented leader in 
church work, a lovely lady, and a devoted 
mother. Mr. Runk was married the second 
time in 1876, at Lebanon, to Sallie Davis, 
born November 18, 1846, in Lebanon county. 
They had one cbild, Harry V., born July 
11, 1877, is a tinsmith at Uniontown. Mrs. 
Sallie Runk died July 11, 1877. 

Mr. Runk is a Republican and a Prohi- 
bitionist. He worked hard to obtain an 
education, having to depend upon his own 
resources. He won success, and established 
himself in his chosen profession. He has 
been very active and useful ; he has worked 
for the establishment of righteousness and 
religion, and in all his fields of labor has 
beeil a power for good. Advancing years 
have not chilled his ardor or dampened his 
zeal ; in years, as in youth, he is alive to the 
needs of the world, and to all opportunities 
for doing good. 



Romberger, Bengohan, retired farmer, 
was born in Mifflin township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 17, 1821. His grand- 
father, Baltzer Romberger, was the son of a 
German settler in Lancaster county, Pa., and 
was a laborer. He married, in Lebanon 
county, a Miss Bricker ; they had nine chil- 
dren. Mr. Romberger died at the home of 
his son Baltzer, in Mifflin township, aged 
eighty-eight ; his wife died at the same place 
in her seventy-eighth year. He was a pio- 
neer, and had a hard fight in life. Three 
times he was driven from his home by the 
Indians. He was an old school Democrat 
and an old school Lutheran. Baltzer Rom- 
berger (2), father of Bengohan, was born in 
Lebanon county, Pa., in 1778. He received 
a German education in subscription schools, 
and was a farmer and blacksmith. He be- 
gan business as a smith, and later in life 
came to Lykens Valley and bought six hun- 
dred acres of land, for a part of which he 
paid $10 per acre ; the land was all in tim- 
ber. With the assistance of his family, Mr. 
Romberger cleared this land, and erected 
upon it the needed buildings, made fences, 
planted an orchard, etc. He then engaged 
in stock raising. 

Baltzer Romberger, Jr., was married, in 
Lebanon, Pa., to Elizabeth Seacrer, born in 



Lebanon, daughter of Conrad Seacrer, a 
farmer, of Lebanon county. They had eleven 
children : Mary, deceased, wife of Daniel 
Matter, farmer ; Catherine, deceased, wife of 
Philip Matter ; George and Daniel, deceased ; 
Bengohan; Hannah, wife of Jacob Wood- 
side, Berrysburg, Pa.; Rebecca, deceased, 
wife of Jere Horner ; David, deceased ; Balt- 
zer, farmer; Susan, deceased, wife of John 
Bordner; and Elizabeth, deceased, wife of 
Jacob Hoy. Mr. and Mrs. Romberger were 
prominent and active members of the Lu- 
theran church. Mr. Romberger was deacon 
and elder. His politics were Democratic. 
He died in Mifflin township in 1838; his 
wife died in the same place in 1860, at the 
home of her son Bengohan, who watched 
over her in her declining years. She was 
exemplary in all the relations of life, and 
especially was she wise and faithful in the 
training of her family. 

Bengohan Romberger attended subscrip- 
tion schools in Mifflin township in the winter, 
and further educated himself by reading and 
private study. From early boyhood he 
worked on the farm of his father, helping to 
clear and cultivate the land. He remained 
upon the farm until he was seventeen years 
of age, when his father died. He then spent 
two years as clerk in a store at Gratz, and 
after that, until he was twenty-one, he was 
clerk in the store of his brother-in-law at 
Curtin, Pa. Mr. Romberger then purchased 
the homestead of one hundred and seventeen 
acres, paying $66.66 per acre. Part of the 
price he paid with money saved from his 
earnings, and for the rest he went into debt. 
After cultivating this farm for four years, he 
sold it for twice as much as he paid for it, 
and bought another farm of one hundred 
and ten acres, which he improved, and occu- 
pied for ten years, and then sold. He then 
bought a third farm of one hundred and 
fifty acres, well improved, which he still 
operates. He purchased also another farm 
of ninety acres, which he keeps under culti- 
vation. He is interested in live stock. He 
is a very industrious man, working early 
and late, and making every day tell toward 
provision for the present and future needs of 
himself and family. 

Mt. Romberger was married, in Washing- 
ton township, in 1842, to Amelia, daughter 
of Joseph Fisher, farmer, born in Mifflin 
township in 1822. They had five children : 
Daniel, deceased ; Joseph F., merchant at 
Berrysburg ; Mary M., deceased, wife of 



DAT I'll IN COUNTY. 



Oil 



Charles Mattis; Nathan, farmer, Lykens 
township; ;ui«l one child died in infancy. 
Mrs. Amelia Romberger died in L869. She 
was a hard working, worthy woman. On 
April 2, L876, Mr. Romberger married his 
second wife, Hannah Schreffler, born in 
Northumberland county. January 5, LS37 ; 
daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Gutzer) 
Schreffler, farmers of Berks county, and the 
parents of fourteen children. Mr. and Mrs. 
Komberger had no children. Mrs. Rom- 
berger had been previously married to Elias 
Troutman,by whom she had two children: 
J. Frankly, residing in ( lleveland, < )hio ; and 
Catherines., who died young. 

Mr. Romberger was a school director for 
two terms and tax collector for seven terms. 
He has been a merchant for many years, and 
has been enterprising and successful, dis- 
playing business tact and talent. He is a 
man of dominant public spirit, as much in- 
terested in the advancement of the town as 
in the success of his own business. He has 
been aptly called the " Father of Berrysburg," 
which is an expression of the general convic- 
tion as to his plans and purposes in the im- 
provement of the community. He has built 
many well arranged dwellings, among them 
his own home, which he furnished with all 
conveniences, at an outlay of $4,000. In 
church affairs he is even more prominent, as 
an honored memberofthe Lutheran church. 
old school, winch he has served as trustee, 
deacon and elder. The luick of which the 
fine house of worship of thai denomination 
is built was burned on his farm. He col- 
lected most of the money to pay for the erec- 
tion of the edifice, and was himself the largesl 
contributor to the fund. He has spent for 
I he church, first and last, the sum of $8,000. 
In some respects Berrysburg is a model town, 
and to the intelligence, enterprise, public 
spirit and liberality <>f Mr. Romberger much 
of its attractiveness is due. The town has 
always been an object of his care and service, 
and its citizens in turn love to honor Mr. 
Romberger as a public benefactor. 



EOYER, BEKNEVILLE, retired. LelTVsburg, 

Pa., was born in Mahantango township, 
Schuylkill county, Pa., February 12. 1844. 

His grandfather. Peter Hover, was a laborer ; 
he died in Berks enmity. 1'a. 

Henry Hover, father of Benneville EToyer, 
was burn in Lykens Valley, La. lb' wa- a 
laborer and removed to Schuylkill county. 



He followed in his occupation until 1855, 
when he died. In Lykens Valley he married 
Mary Lover, born in Schuylkill county, daugh- 
ter of Samuel Boyer, farmer, of the same 

county. They had five children: Elizabeth, 

deceased, born in 1N33. wife of William Fugle ; 
Rebecca, unmarried, lives at Larry. Schuyl- 
kill county, Pa.; Henry, deceased, soldier in 
the late war in company A. Fiftieth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers; Peter, died young. 
Mr. Henry Hover was a Democrat. He was 
a member of the Reformed church. His wife 
died inStone Valley, Northumberland county, 
Pa.,.ih February, 1856. 

Benneville Hover attended the public 
schools. At the age of eleven he lost his 
father and was obliged to work on a farm for 
his board and clothing until he was seven- 
teen. He was then employed six months as 
a teamster by G. Adams, after which he spent 
a few months as apprentice in a smithy. At 
the age of eighteen Mr. Hover enlisted, at 
Sacramento, Schuylkill county, Pa., February 
24, 1862, in company G, One Hundred and 
Seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
Col. Thos. A. Ziegler, afterwards Col. T. F. 
McCoy and Capt. M. Murphy. He partici- 
pated in the battles of Cedar Mountain, Bull 
Run, South Mountain, and Antietam. At 
the last named battle, September 17, 1862, he 
lost his leg by a minie ball passing through 
it. The leg was amputated in a barn, and he 
was confined in the Smoketown, Md., hospital; 
was discharged July 11, 18(53, and returned 
home. His father and mother being both 
dead he remained only a short time and then 
went to Philadelphia and learned cigar mak- 
ing, at which he spent sometime. He also 
worked a short time at label printing, and 
then went to the Soldiers' Home, supported 
by the citizens of Philadelphia. Here he at- 
tended school in 1864-65, and then returned 
to Schuylkill county ami worked a short time 
at cigar making. After tins he was for two 
years clerk for John Reed, of Gratz, Dauphin 
county. In 1869 Mr. Hoyer studied at Free- 
burg Academy. Snyder county. La., under 
Prof D. Boyer; in LS71-72 at Berrysburg 
Seminary, under Prof. Peter Bergstresser. lb- 
then taught school very successfully for two 
terms in Jackson and Jefferson townships. 
For the following six year- he had a cigar 
manufactory and a restaurant at Gratz, which 
he sold, and in 1876 established the same 
business at Berrysburg : he conducted a cigar 
factory and a restauranl in that place for fif- 
teen years. Heat length sold out and now 



912 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



resides in Berrysburg, having relinquished 
active work. 

Benneville Hoyer was married, in Jackson 
township, Dauphin county, November 3, 1872, 
to Caroline Schoffstall, widow of Benjamin 
Kuntzelman, born in Gratz, Lykens township, 
January 15, 1850 ; daughter of Solomon and 
Catherine (Bordner) Schoffstall ; her father a 
farmer of Lykens township. Their children 
are : Jennie D., born February 25, 1874, wife 
of C. H. Schoffstall ; Charles H., born Octo- 
ber 9, 1875, baker, Philadelphia; James M., 
born August 18, 1877, farmer in Mifflin town- 
ship ; William E., born August 23, 1879, died 
March 30, 1881 ; Raymond F., born Febru- 
ary 12, 1881, died February 23, 1889 ; Anna 
M., born February 4, 1886, attending Chester 
Springs School ; Ella M., born November 24, 
1887, also at same school ; Beulah C, born 
September 26, 1891. Mrs. Hoyer died of 
heart failure October 8, 1892. 

The children by Mrs. Hoyer's first marriage 
to Mr. Kuntzelman are : Aaron I., born April 
27, 1867, miner, at Williamstown ; John B., 
born October 7, 1868, farmer in Upper Pax- 
ton township. 

Since the death of his wife Mr. Hoyer has 
had as housekeeper Miss Emma J. Gessner, 
an excellent young lady. The first vote Mr. 
Hoyer cast, in November, 1864, in Philadel- 
phia, was a Democratic ticket ; he is now a 
Republican. He was a member of Kissinger 
Post, No. 376, G. A. R., Gratz, Pa., and of P. 
0. S. of A., Washington Camp, No. 307, Ber- 
rysburg, Pa. He is a member of the Reformed 
church, Berrysburg, Pa. 

Mr. Hoyer is among the maimed patriots, 
suffering much from the loss of his leg sacri- 
ficed in the service of his country, but secure 
in the reward bestowed by a consciousness of 
duty faithfully performed, and in the grati- 
tude which all good citizens render to those 
who redeemed the life of the Nation. He has 
cheerfully accepted his limitations and pa- 
tiently worked on. Declining years bring 
him no regrets, and the future is spanned 
with the bow of hope. 



Straub, William, farmer and stockman, 
Berrysburg, Pa., was born in Schuylkill 
county, Pa., September 21, 1831 ; son of 
John and Christian (Hime) Straub. John 
Straub was also born in Schuylkill county, 
and was a son of John Straub, farmer and 
mill owner of that county, where he died. 
John Straub, Jr., was also a farmer, and cul- 
tivated several rented farms in his native 



county, where he died in 1845. His wife, 
Christiana Hime, was born in Northumber- 
land county. Their children were: John, 
resides in Northumberland county; Ange- 
line, deceased, wife of Jere Matter, engineer; 
William; Elizabeth, deceased, wife of Da- 
vid Seal; Samuel, Lykens township, Dau- 
phin county; Amos, farmer, Mifflin town- 
ship; Sarah, died young; Mary, wife of 
John Wetmore, Seven Points, Northumber- 
land county. Mr. Straub was a Democrat. 
He was a member of the Lutheran church. 
The second husband of Mrs. Straub was Val- 
entine Savage ; they had a daughter, Alice, 
wife of Henry Hamhulse, of Schuylkill 
county. Mrs. Savage died at the home of 
her son, William Straub, in 1880. 

William Straub attended subscription 
schools for a short time each year, during 
the winter season, but his school advantages 
were very limited, as he went to work on the 
farm when he was six years of age. He 
worked for his father until he was fourteen, 
when his father died, after which he hired 
out to do farm work, receiving as wages 
$4 per month. He worked in this way 
for three or four years and then learned 
shoemaking, and worked for four years at 
that trade. He then came to Mifflin town- 
ship, Dauphin county, and for three years 
was a teamster for Mr. Martin Curtin, a 
storekeeper; then drove" the mail stage from 
Millersburg to Fremont, Schuylkill county. 
He then rented and cultivated for sixteen 
years a farm of one hundred and twenty-five 
acres in Mifflin township. Having by this 
time saved some money, Mr. Straub bought, 
in 1873, his present farm of thirty acres 
from Daniel Matter, on which there was an 
old house. In 1875 he bought thirty addi- 
tional acres near the homestead, built a fine 
house as a dwelling, and one of the best 
barns in the township, costing over $5,000. 
He afterwards bought of G. J. Miller a farm 
of eighty acres. He cultivated all this land 
and engaged extensively in stock-breeding. 
He has been and is still a very industrious 
man. In his younger days it was his cus- 
tom to work on the farm in the day time 
and drive a huckster wagon at night. He 
has been very successfully engaged in huck- 
stering for forty-five years. 

William Straub was married, in Mifflin 
township, in. December, 1853, to Elizabeth 
Hultzman, born in Mifflin township, in 
1837 ; daughter of Jonathan Hultzman, 
farmer, Mifflin township. Their children 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



913 



are: Jolin N., Ilarrisburg, Pa.; Mary, wife 
of Jolin Dockey, who farms the homestead; 
Charles, deceased; Norman, farmer, Mifflin 
township ; Emma, wife of Henry Howe, 
farmer, Miillin township; Harry, farmer, on 
homestead ; Katie, wife of Jacob U. Hart- 
man, farmer, Mifflin township. Mrs.Straub 
died in 1890, since when Mrs. Mary Dockey 
has been her father's housekeeper. Mr. 
Straub is a Democrat. He is a member of 
the Lutheran church, new school, and for a 
number of years has been a trustee of the 
church, to which he gives liberally. He 
contributed over §600 for building the house 
of worship. He is a member of the Inde- 
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, of the 
Knights of Pythias, and of the Grange. Mr. 
Straub is a man of good common sense, en- 
terprising and active, and is a very success- 
ful business man. Lie began farming with 
$50 and a horse and buggy ; planted an 
orchard of five acres, worked hard, and was 
rewarded with the most gratifying success. 



Dubendorf, Samuel D., blacksmith, was 
born in Upper Pax ton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 31, 1857. 

His grandfather, Samuel Dubendorf, was 
a Pennsylvanian of German extraction and 
a farmer, owning and cultivating a farm of 
one hundred acres in Lykens township, Dau- 
phin county, on which he raised fine stock. 
He was a famous hunter in his day. He 
married in Lykens township. His children 
were: David, William, Samuel, Levina, Hat- 
tie, Matilda, Susan, and Sarah. He was au 
old line Whig. Both he and bis wife 
died in Lykens township. They were mem- 
bers of the German Reformed church. 

Samuel Dubendorf (2), father of Samuel 
D., was bum at Gratz, Lykens township, in 
1828. He was a farmer and blacksmith. 
He removed to Upper Paxton township, 
where he built a shop and worked as a smith 
fur over fifty years, at the same time farming 
twenty-one acres, on which he built a house 
and barn and made other valuable improve- 
ments. He was full of energy and enterprise 
and his business was proportionately suc- 
cessful. His first wife was a native of Mifflin 
township, Lydia, daughter of John Radel, 
farmer. Their children were: John, black- 
smith, Elizabethville, Pa.; Amanda, wife of 
John Bechtel, Elizabethville; Susan, wife of 
John Seal, Upper Paxton township ; Samuel; 
Daniel, and Charles, both deceased. Mrs. 
Lydia Dubendorf died in 1 >; < > li . Mr. Duben- 



dorf's second wife was Christiana Markle, of 
Northumberland county. They had three 
children: William, carpenter, Millersburg, 
Pa.; Mary, and Henry G., who reside at 
home Mr. Dubendorf was a Republican. 
He was a member of the Reformed church. 
He died in 1S93; hks wife survives him and 
resides in Upper Paxton township. 

Samuel D. Dubendorf attended school in 
early boyhood in Upper Paxton township, 
and at the age of fourteen went to work in 
the blacksmith shop with his father. He 
continued working with his father until he 
was twenty, and then worked one year at his 
trade for Henry Wise, at Gratz. Then for 
one year he was employed to shoe the min- 
ing team at Dayton, Pa. At the end of that 
year he returned to work in his father's 
shop. A year later, in 1881, he bought his 
father's shop and trade and has ever since 
conducted a general blacksmithing business 
on his own account. He has prospered aud 
during thistime has built a fine dwelling cost- 
ing $1,000, making all the improvements re- 
quisite for a most convenient and comfortable 
home. Mr. Dubendorf was married, on the 
homestead, in November, 1881, to Mary J., 
daughter of John N. Deibler, of Mifflin town- 
ship, born in Centre county, Pa., in June, 
1855. They have three children: John, 
born November 20, 1882, attending school; 
Gertrude, born in June, 1880, attended 
Berrysburg Seminary in 189:3; and Pearl, 
born August 29, 1880. Mr. Dubendorf is a 
Republican and takes an active interest in 
politics; he has served as inspector of elec- 
tions. He is deeply interested in all school 
matters and is in favor of compulsory edu- 
cation. In church interests he is no less 
active and devoted. He serves the United 
Brethren Sunday-school as secretary and 
librarian and has for the last ten yens 
officiated as sexton of the church. Mr. Du- 
bendorf displays tireless industry in all that 
he undertakes, is progressive and full of en- 
terprise. He is a most useful member of 
society, and is highly esteemed by all his 
neighbors. 



Ui.sn, Jacob M., is among the prominent 
and prosperous farmers and stockmen of 
Miillin township. He is a native of Green- 
wood township. Perry county. Pa., and was 
born January S, 1855. He bears the name 
of his grandfather, Jacob Ulsh, also a native 
of Perry county and a fanner. His father. 
Josiah Ulsh, was likewise horn in Green- 



914 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENGYUL OPEDIA 



wood township, Perry county, where lie was 
reared, and where he owned and cultivated 
one hundred acres of land, and was an ex- 
tensive stock raiser. Josiah Ulsh married 
Sarah Arbogast, born in Snyder county, Pa., 
in 1827. They had six children: Jacob M.; 
Maggie, unmarried, residing in Perry county, 
Pa.; John, farmer, Greenwood township, 
Perry county; Amelia, wife of Solomon 
Weaver, Topeka, Kan.; Sarah, died young; 
Albert, unmarried, lives in Topeka, Kan. 
Mrs. Ulsh died in 1882. Mr. Ulsh survives 
her and resides on the homestead in Perry 
county. He is a Republican, is well known 
and universally esteemed. 

Jacob M. Ulsh attended the schools of his 
native township, and began business early 
by working on the home farm, where he 
continued until lie was twenty years old. 
He then came to Lykens Valley, Dauphin 
county, and worked four years as a farm 
hand for Jonathan Reigle, then went to 
Benjamin Reigle's and worked for four years 
on his' farm, after which he cultivated the 
farm of D. D. Elder, Washington township, 
for eleven years. In 1894 he moved on the 
farm of one hundred and twenty-eight acres, 
on which he now resides, in Mifflin town- 
ship, and is engaged in farming and raising 
live stock. 

Jacob M. Ulsh was married, in Mifflin 
township, in 1879, to Mary Lehman, born in 
Mifflin township, daughter of Samuel Leh- 
man, a merchant of Upper Paxton township, 
and his wife, Catherine (Deibler) Lehman. 
Mr. and Mrs. Ulsh have had two children : 
Sallie C, born in 1880, and Jacob H., in 
1886. 

Mr. Ulsh is a Republican. He served as 
school director of Washington township for 
two years. In 1882 he was constable of the 
township. Mr. Ulsh has always been a 
hard-working man and a good man of busi- 
ness, and has succeeded in acquiring a com- 
fortable competency. He is well known and 
liked by every one, and is one of the solid 
citizens of the community. 



Miller, Major J. Frank, was born in 
Annville, Lebanon county, June 13, 1830. 
His grandfather, John Miller, spelled his 
name Muller ; he was a native of Switzer- 
land, and came to this country with his par- 
ents, who settled in Dauphin count}-, then 
included in Lancaster county. He owned a 
large tract of land, then covered with tim- 
ber, on which he cleared several farms, and 



was extensively engaged in agriculture. He 
married in Lancaster, the name of his wife 
cannot now be given with certainty, but it 
was probably Snavely. The names of his 
children, so far as known, are: John, Isaac, 
Abraham, Jacob, Christian, Magdalena ; but 
there were others whose names cannot be 
ascertained. He died in Hanover, Lebanon 
county. He was a Whig and a member of 
the Mennonite denomination. 

Isaac Miller, father of the Major, received 
a good education in subscription schools. 
He spent bis younger days with his father 
on the farm, and became a competent busi- 
ness man. When he became of age he 
bought a farm of one hundred and forty 
acres in South Annville township, Lebanon 
county, which he occupied and improved 
and continued to cultivate until 1847. He 
then retired from active work, bought prop- 
erty in Annville and resided there until his 
death. Besides farming, he did a large busi- 
ness in live stock, buying in the West and 
shipping to the eastern markets. His busi- 
ness in horses was very successful. 

Isaac Miller was married at the place of his 
birth, Hanover township, Lebanon county, 
to Mollie Frensler, a native of that place; 
they had eight children : Henry, deceased, a 
farmer; Sarah, widow of John Frensler, 
Annville, Lebanon county ; Christiana, widow 
of Jacob Bachman, Annville; Magdalena, 
deceased, wife of Philip Wolfenberger, of 
Illinois; Elizabeth, second wife of the same 
Philip Wolfenberger, Princeton, 111.; J. 
Frank ; Jacob, in real estate business, 
Princeton, 111.; Mollie, died in infancy. Mr. 
Miller died at Annville in 1878. He was 
originally a Whig, and afterwards a Re- 
publican, and took an active part in political 
movements. He possessed great business 
ability and was always successsful in his en- 
terprises. He and his wife became members 
of the United Brethren church at Annville, 
and attended the services there up to the 
time of their death. 

J. Frank Miller was educated at subscrip- 
tion schools taught in German, and learned 
his first lessons in that tongue; in that 
course he went as far as the psalter. He 
also attended the Meyerstown Academy for 
one year, and attended the Annville Acad- 
emy, Lebanon county, for two years. He 
worked on the farm with his father until 
1848 and then went to Iowa ; remained a 
short time, and returned as far as Mansfield, 
Ohio, near which place he had charge of a 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



915 



grist mill for just six months, when he was 
taken ill, and returned to his home at Aim- 
ville. Pa., and taught winter school for three 
terms. After this Mr. Miller was for two 
years in the shoe and hat factory business at 
Meyerstown, and was reasonably successful. 
During this time lie received his first com- 
mission from Governor Bigler, as lieutenant 
of State militia. 

In 1S54 Mr. Miller went to Princeton, 111., 
and engaged in the grain business, which 
yielded him very satisfactory profits until 
the panic of 1858 prostrated all business. 
He did not, however, abandon the busi- 
ness Jhere until 1860, when he returned 
to Dauphin county, Pa. During his stay at 
Princeton lie became identified with the 
" underground railroad." In 1853 he received 
from Governor Bissell, of Illinois, a commis- 
sion as first lieutenant in the Illinois State 
militia. After his return to Pennsylvania 
he resided at Berrysburg until the war broke 
out in 1861. 

In June of that year Mr. Miller enlisted 
in company B, Ninth regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia cavalry, as second lieutenant, under 
Colonel Williams and ('apt. E. G. Savage. 
He served with the regiment in this rank 
until August 2, 1862, when he was promoted 
and mustered inasfirst lieutenant,companyC; 
May 23, 1863, he was again promoted and mus- 
tered in as captain of company K. He was 
promoted to major of the regiment June 23, 
L865. During his time of service Major 
Miller was in the following engagements: 
Paris, Ky., July 9, 1862; Richmond, Ky., 
September 2, 1862; Perryville, Ky., October 
8,1862; Carter's raid into East Tennessee, 
December, 1862; commanded by General 
Carter, 1,104 men in the saddle: marched 
twenty-one days, often continuously day 
and night, two hundred and seventy-three 
miles into the enemy's lines; Franklin, 
Tenn., March 1, 1863; Spring Hill. Tenn., 
March 10, 1863; Triune, Tenn., June 11, 
1863; Shelby villi-, Tenn., June 28, 1SH3 : La- 
fayette, Ga., September .13, 1863; Chicka- 
maugua,Ga., September 19, 20, 21, 1863; New 
Market, Ala., October 6, 1863; Dandridge, 
Tenn., December 24, 1863; Mossy Creek, 
Tenn., December 26, 27. 29, L863.; Dan- 
dridge. Tenn., January 16, 1864; Lovejoy 
Station, Ga., November 16, 1864; Macon, 
Ga.; November 20, 1864; Waynesboro, Ga., 
November 28, L864; Savannah, Ga., Decem- 
ber 21. 1864 : Columbia, S. C, February is, 
L865; Averysboro, N. G, March 16, 1865; 



Bentonville, N. C, March 19, 20, 1865; 

Raleigh, X. C, April 12,186r ); Morrisville, 
N. G, April 13, 1865, and at the surrender 
of Johnson and his army at Benton's house, 
N. C, April 26, 1865. Major Miller was dis- 
charged from the service at Harrisburg in 
September, 1865. 

For the first year after his return from the 
army he was engaged in mercantile business 
at Berrysburg. He then became agent for 
several companies manufacturing agricul- 
tural implements, and was thus occupied for 
a number of years. He has now practically 
retired from active business. 

Maj. J. Frank Miller was married, at Ber- 
rysburg, July 4, 1855, to Emma J., daughter 
of Dr. H. G and Mary (Boyer) Beshler. born 
at Freeburg, Union county, now Snyder 
county, March 6,1835. Their children are: 
Henry I., born February 24, 1857, educated 
in Berrysburg Seminary, taught school, and 
became a music dealer, he married Addie 
Mover, of Georgetown, Northumberland 
county, and they have four children : Frank, 
Ralph, Albert, and George, deceased; Anna 
Laura, born August 24, 1S59, educated in 
Berrysburg Seminary, married George D. 
Romberger, insurance agent, at Berrysburg, 
and they have ten children, of whom eight 
are living. 

Major Miller was for four years postmaster 
at Berrysburg, commissioned under Presi- 
dent Harrison. Pie was also justice of the 
peace for five years, and was a careful, im- 
partial and popular official. Pie was school 
director for two terms, and is an ardent ad- 
vocate of compulsory education. He has 
served as both State and county tax collec- 
tor, and was census taker for Lykens Yallev 
in 1870 and 1880. He was a candidate for 
sheriff on the Republican ticket in 1866, but 
was defeated. He is a member of Princeton 
Lodge, No. 112, F. & A. M., Princeton, 111., 
and of the Knights of Honor, Princeton ; he 
is also a member of Kilpatrick Post, G. A. 
I!., at Millersburg, Pa. Major Miller is a 
member of the Lutheran church, new 
school. 

Dr. II. G Beshler, father of Mrs. Miller. 
was a well-known physician at Berrysburg. 
He was a native of Northumberland county, 
and of German descent. His wife was born 
in Snyder county, also of German ancestry. 
They had three children: Emma J., Mrs 
Miller; Annie E., deceased, wile of D. K. 
McClure ; John B., deceased, a prominent 
physician, of Berrysburg. 



916 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Buntz, Rev. Stephen, pastor of the United 
Evangelical church, Berrysburg, was born in 
Schuylkill county, Pa., October 22, 1854; 
son of John and Charlotta (Keler) Buntz, 
both natives of Germany. The father was 
a carpenter by occupation and in 1854 came 
to this country, locating in Schuylkill county, 
where he spent the remainder of his life. 
His children are: Henry, Elizabeth, Her- 
man, Mary. John, deceased, Stephen, John, 
deceased, and two children, who died in in- 
fancy. The father died in Schuylkill county 
in 1868, and his wife died in Ashland, same 
county, in 1891, and both were members of 
the Evangelical church. Stephen attended 
the schools at Tamaqua and began his busi- 
ness life by working several years in the coal 
mines. Later he learned the trade of cigar 
making and followed that business for fifteen 
years. He then took up the study of theology 
and other branches in preparation for the 
work of the ministry, and was ordained a 
deacon by the Evangelical Association in 
1888 at Norristown, Pa. Since his ordina- 
tion he has had charge of the churches at 
Ringtown, Hackney, Bridston, Meyerstown 
and Kuntstown, and in March, 1896, was in- 
stalled pastor of the church at Berrysburg. 
Rev. Buntz was married, at Ashland, Pa., in 
October, 1873, to Mary E. Tuckenbill, a na- 
tive of Schuylkill county. Their children 
are : Edwin S., attending school, and Robert 
D., died young. Mr. Buntz is a Prohibitionist 
in his political views. 

Bowman, William H., furniture manufac- 
turer and undertaker, Uniontown, Pa., was 
born near Berrysburg, Pa., January 13,1856. 
He attended the schools of the township in 
the winter and worked on his grandfather's 
farm until he was sixteen years of age. He 
then attended the Berrysburg Seminary' 
under Prof. Bergstresser for two years, after 
which he spent three years as an apprentice 
at the trade of cabinet making, and then 
worked three years as a journeyman. In 
1880 he started a small shop of his oavii in 
Uniontown, having only $20 in cash to be- 
gin with, and has continued in the business 
since that time. Eight years later he erected 
a factory 22x56 feet, and equipped it with 
the most improved mach inery. His business 
has increased and has been profitable. He 
has built a fine residence, and is a prominent 
and prosperous business man. Mr. Bowman 
was married, at Uniontown in 1877, to Miss 
Kate Underkoffer, born in Northumberland 



county in 1856; daughter of John Under- 
koffer, a farmer and miller. They have six 
children : Emory I., Elura M., Clayton V., 
Bertha O, Paul J., and Florence E. In po- 
litical views Mr. Bowman is a Democrat and 
served as burgess of Uniontown three years, 
school director nine years, and also as audi- 
tor, judge of elections and clerk. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church, in which 
he holds the office of deacon and is the super- 
intendent and a teacher of the Sunday-school. 
He is master of forms in the Patriotic Order 
Sons of America. 



Deibler, Daniel J., farmer and stock- 
man, Berrysburg, Pa., was born on the old 
homestead in Mifflin township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., August 7, 1849; son of George 
and Hannah (Deibler) Deibler. He attended 
the township school, taught in the Deibler 
school house for three months each winter, 
and worked on the farm in the other months, 
until he was twenty-one years old. He then 
went to Illinois, and for sixteen months was 
engaged in farming, after which he returned 
and worked on the homestead until his 
father's death, since which he lias had charge 
of the farm, which consists of one hundred 
and fifty-nine acres, of which fifty acres are 
timbered land on which there is a saw mill. 
He was married, at Annville, Lebanon 
county, March 13, 1873, to Sarah L. Stine, 
born April 8, 1854 ; daughter of Peter L. 
Stine and Elizabeth (Bufnngton) Stine. The 
former resides at Elizabethville, and is a 
farmer and miller; the latter died at Eliza- 
bethville in 1892. The children of Mr. and 
Mrs. Deibler are: Clara E., Katie E., Polly 
L., Daniel D., Carrie M., Abbie R., Sadie I., 
Lulie E., Mark L., John C, and one child 
died young. Mr. Deibler is a Republican in 
politics, served as school director nine years, 
and supervisor of roads three years, assistant 
assessor one term, and judge of elections one 
year. He is a member of the German Re- 
formed church. 



Deibler, George A., farmer and dairy- 
man, Berrysburg, Pa., was born in Mifflin 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., June 13, 
1848; son of George and Hannah (Deibler), 
Deibler, and brother of John W. Deibler, of 
Berrysburg. He attended the school taught 
during the winter months at the Deibler 
school house and during the summer months 
worked on the farm. He remained on the 
old homestead until he was twenty-four 








n^&A. q6 u>t>c c/c^y 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



919 



years old, and then began farming for him- 
self. He bought one hundred and twenty- 
five acres of farming land and fifty acres of 
mountain land, which he has been engaged 
in cultivating and developing. In 1874 he 
built a fine residence of brick made on the 
place, costing $2,500, and erected a barn and 
other buildings, costing $2,000 additional. 
He was married, in Washington township, 
in 1.S72, to Ellen Stine, born in Lykens 
township, September 30, 1851, a daughter of 
Peter L. Stine. Their children are: Peter 
I'., Charles E., Sallic T., George W., Emma 
I)., Elmer S., Henry H., Isaac N, and Cora E. 
Mr. Deibler was school director two terms, 
supervisor one term, and assessor and tax 
collector one term. In his political views 
he is a Republican. He is a member of the 
German Reformed church and a Sunday- 
school teacher. 



Detter, David F., principal of Berrys- 
burg Seminary, was born in York county, 
Pa., August 6, 1805. The great-grandfather 
came from Germany in his youth, settled in 
York county, engaged in farming and died 
in that county. John Detter, the grand- 
father, was also a farmer in York county. 
He married Sarah Jacobs, and the} 7 had six 
children. He was a Democrat and a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church. James Detter, 
the father, was born in 1820 and brought up 
in York county. He attended subscription 
schools, and also the Oxford College in 
Adams county, where he received his higher 
education. 1 1 e became a professional teacher, 
and was engaged in the work for seventeen 
years, teaching in both subscription and in 
public schools. While teaching he con- 
ducted a business of contracting and build- 
ing. Subsequently he took up farming on 
the homestead, and became an extensive 
farmer and stockman, retiring from the 
business in 18S2. He rented his farm and 
took up his residence at Bermudian, in 
Adams county. 

He was married, in York county, to Cathe- 
rine Roth, born in Jackson township. York 
county, in 1830; daughter of John Both, 
farmer. Their children are : Franklin, Wal- 
ter, David V., Howard. Mary -J., Latimer, 
Reuben, and John, who died in infancy. 
The father was originally a Democrat, and 
changed his views and became a Republican 
in 1861. He was much interested and very 
active in all church matters in his younger 
5S 



days. He is a member of the Evangelical 
church. 

David F. attended the public schools 
in Washington township, York county, 
and was reared on the farm. At eigh- 
teen years of age he entered East Berlin 
Academy, in Adams county, and after two 
years study was graduated in 1882. He 
taught school in Washington township, 
York county, one term, was sent to the prin- 
cipal of the Franklintown school one year, 
and then taught in Lancaster county until 
1887, wdien he took an elementary course 
and was graduated from the Millersville 
State Normal School in 1889. He then be- 
came principal of the New Holland public 
school, in which position he remained until 
1892, when he was elected principal of the 
Berrysburg high school, and has filled the 
place for four years with great acceptance. 
Mr. Detter is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church, and a teacher in the Sun- 
day-school. In political views he is a Re- 
publican, and is a member of Washington 
Camp, P. O. S. of A. 



Enterline, Solomox H., deceased, for- 
merly a prominent business man at Berrys- 
burg, was born in Uniontown, Mifflin town- 
ship, January 7,1835; son of Michael and 
Elizabeth (Herfer) Enterline. The grand- 
father was born in Germany and came to 
this country, where he spent the remainder 
of his life in labors of the ministry in the 
Lutheran church. He ministered to the 
spiritual needs of the people in Mifflin town- 
ship and helped to build the first Lutheran 
church in the township, known as the Hill 
church. By bis self-sacrificing devotion and 
faithful and able services he endeared him- 
self to the people and was held in high 
esteem. In his political views he was a Dem- 
ocrat. Michael, the father, was born and 
educated in Germany and learned the trade 
of hatter. Later he engaged in keeping 
hotel and in cultivating a farm. He was 
married, in Lykens Valley, to Elizabeth 
Herfer, a native of Centre county. Their 
children were : Eliza, Sarah, Mary A., Louisa, 
Catherine, Elizabeth, Solomon, Jennie, and 
two who died young. The father was a Dem- 
ocrat, lie and his wife win' members of the 
Lutheran church and both died in Berrys- 
burg. 

Solomon attended the schools of his native 
township and acquired a fair education. 
When fifteen years of age he became clerk 



920 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



in a store at Berry sburg, where he remained 
until he was twenty-two years old. He then 
bought an interest in the store of George 
Lark, with whom he remained in business 
for several years, when he sold out and for 
three years was clerk in the grain business 
at Elizabethville. He next started a store at 
Bull Bun, Snyder county, which he con- 
ducted successfully for two years, after which 
he returned to Berrysburg and was engaged 
in farming for two years. His next venture 
was in partnership with Josiah Yeager in a 
store at Fisherville, which they conducted 
for three and a half years. He then returned 
to Berrysburg and bought a store for $2,500, 
which he conducted with gratifying success, 
and in which he continued until his death. 
Mr. Enterline was married, in Halifax, Sep- 
tember 26, 1860, to Anna E. Snyder, born in 
Berrysburg, December 3, 1840 ; daughter of 
Abraham and Hannah (Bordner) Snyder, the 
former a shoemaker and a native of Dauphin 
county. Their children are : M. Elizabeth, 
born October 11,1861, wife of Dr. Charles 
M. Bichert, of Harrisburg ; Katie A., born 
August 12, 1863, unmarried, bookkeeper at 
Philadelphia; Sallie L., born October 20, 
1865, unmarried, at Harrisburg; Virginia 
E., born January 5, 1867, wife of Prof. J. B. 
Beese, principal of Bidgway school ; Charles 
M., born April 20, 1868, moulder, at York. 
Mr. Enterline died July 7, 1879. In politics 
he was a Democrat. He was a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal church. In fra- 
ternal relationship he was associated with 
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His 
business tact and talent were of a high or- 
der, and his business career was successful 
and laudable. He built a fine residence at 
an outlay of $4,000, and took place among 
the most prominent business men of the 
region. He was widely known and uni- 
versally popular. 



Hoffman, William, son of Jacob and Eve 
Elizabeth (Weiser) Hoffman, was born Sep- 
tember 7, 1831, in Jordan township, North- 
umberland county, Pa. His grandfather re- 
moved from Berks county, where he was 
born, to Lykens Valley, at an early day, 
locating on a farm near Berrysburg. He 
married Rebecca Kuntzman, and their chil- 
dren were : Daniel, George, Jacob, John, and 
seven daughters. Jacob learned the trade 
of a carpenter and married Eve Elizabeth 
Weiser. Their children were: William; 
John; Mary, who married a Mr. Witmer; 



Sarah, who married a Mr. Moyer ; and Eliza- 
beth, who married a Mr. Deppen. He re- 
moved to Northumberland county, where 
he followed farming and cabinet making, and 
there most of their children were born. 
William Hoffman's early life was passed on 
his father's farm, and his educational advan- 
tages were limited to the country schools. 
In 1859 he removed to Uniontown, Dauphin 
county, where he engaged in merchandising 
until 1865, when, having retired from mer- 
cantile pursuits, he began the manufacture of 
agricultural implements, which occupation 
was continued until 1878, when he again 
resumed his former business. In 1860 Mr. 
Hoffman was elected a justice of the peace, 
which office he held for twenty years. In 
1877 he was chosen burgess of Uniontown 
borough, and is a director of the First Na- 
tional Bank of Millersburg. Mr. Hoffman 
married, October 20, 1853, Lydia, daughter 
of Adam Willier, of Lykens township. Their 
children are : W. Jacob; J. Weiser; Sarah E., 
who married a Mr. Emrick ; Kate A., and 
Eulera J. 



Hess, John, farmer, Pillow P. O., was born 
in Lykens township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 31, 1840; son of Solomon and Eva 
(Salbyn) Hess, and brother of Solomon Hess. 
He attended school in the township only in 
the winter, and only for about one month in 
each year. He began regular farm work at 
eight years of age, and was emjdoyed on the 
homestead until he was twenty-three years of 
age. He then rented a farm in Lykens town- 
ship containing eighty acres, which he worked 
for two years, and also ninety acres belong- 
ing to his father for two years after. He 
next went into the hotel business, buying 
property at Uniontown, for which he paid 
$7,000, a part of which he had saved from his 
four years' farming. He kept the hotel one 
year and sold it for $9,000, and in 1869 
bought a farm of ninety acres of his father in 
Lykens township, which he has unproved, 
erecting a dwelling for $3,000 and a barn for 
$2,500, and otherwise improved the place. 
He raises stock and attends the markets at 
Middletown, and also takes a great interest 
in county fairs. He was married, in Upper 
Paxton township, in 1862, to Caroline Moyer, 
born at Gratz, January 10, 1844; daughter of 
George Moyer, a native of Germany, and a 
blacksmith by trade. They have two chil- 
dren : Mary C, married Nathan Hortman, 
who died in 1891, and they have one child, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



021 



Annie; she next married Luther Byerly, 
farmer on the homestead : Annie M., unmar- 
ried. Mr. Hess is a Republican and has 

served as school director three years, tax col- 
lector three terms and assessor one year. He 
is a member of the German Reformed church 

and has been an elder for two years. 

IIaktmax. Jacob, farmer and mill owner, 
Berrysburg, Pa., was horn in Lykens town- 
ship, Dauphin county, March 28, 1828. 
Henry Hartman, the grandfather, was a 
native of Germany and a farmer. He first 
M-ttled in Montgomery county; moved from 
theiv to Williams Valley and afterwards to 
Lykens Valley, where he farmed one hun- 
dred acres of land, and raised live stock, 
lie married a Miss Herner, and they had six 
children. Both were members of the Lu- 
theran church, and both died near Gratz, Pa. 

Henry, the father, was an extensive farm 
and stockman, cultivating three hundred 
aires, and owning and operating a grist mill 
in Washington township. He married Mag- 
delina Shoffstall, of Lykens Valley, and they 
had six sons and five daughters: John, de- 
ceased ; Henry : Simon, deceased ; Elizabeth ; 
Jacob; Benneville and Catherine, twins, de- 
ceased; Moses, Michael, Catherine, Polly, 
and Umholtz. Originally Mr. Hartman was 
a Whig, and later a Republican. He and 
his wife were members of the Lutheran 
church, and lie served in various church ami 
Sunday-school offices. Both died on the old 
homestead. 

Jacob attended the subscription school 
taught in the log school house, which was 
originally his father's home. His education 
was limited, because he was obliged to drive 
tin' horses in tramping out the wheat, and 
also to use the Hail on the grain, to. chop 
wood in winter, and work on the crops in 
summer. He remained at home until he 
was twenty-four years of age. after which he 
took one of his father's farms in Washington 
township on the shares for six years, and 
saved a little money. He bought a farm of 
his father ('(insisting of one hundred and six 
acres of land, only a part of which was 
cleared, mi which there were a small frame 
house and log barn, for which he paid $56 
per acre. He cleared the land, built a fine 
dwelling house, of brick made mi the farm, 
costing s:;,iiiki, and also a good ham, ami 
other buildings costing $1,800. He also 

bought more land, and limit a flouring mill 
COStmg $8,000; and is reported as one of the 



most prosperous men in the township. He 
was married, in M ifflin township, in 1853, to 
Catherine Deibler, daughter of John Deibler, 

born in Mifflin township, in 1833. Then: 
children are: Lena; John: Nathaniel, de- 
ceased; George, deceased; Henry, Grant, 
Kate, Emma, and one child died young. 

.Mr. Hartman is a Republican in polities, 
and has served in the offices of school direc- 
tor, supervisor, tax collector, and assessor, 
lie is a member of the Lutheran church, in 
which he is deacon, elder, trustee, and treas- 
urer, and. is also Sunday-school superintend- 
ent and teacher. 



Kautz, Dr. A. J., physician, Berrysburg, 
Pa., was born in Union county, Pa., July 31, 
1837 ; son of John Kautz. The father was a 
carpenter by occupation, and died in 1850. 
He married Mary Fisher, also a native of 
Union county, and they had six children : 
Christian, Mary A., George W., Samuel B., 
Dr. A. J., and B.Franklin. Themotherdiedin 
Snyder county, in 1881. Dr. A. J. attended 
school in Washington township, Snyder 
county, and hired out as a farmer boy until 
he was eighteen years of age, after which he 
attended Freeburg Academy, and Dickinson 
Seminary, Williamsport, Pa., two terms. In 
1860 he taught school during the winter 
months in Schuylkill county, and read medi- 
cine with Dr. Schaffer for six months. In 
1862 he went West to Illinois and read medi- 
cine with Dr. Fox, and was an assistant in 
the hospital at Keokuk, Iowa, for three 
years. He was graduated from the medical 
department of the Iowa State University, in 
1865, after which he worked in a drug store 
for a time, and, in the latter part of the same 
year came East and located in Northumber- 
land county, where he practiced medicine for 
three years. He then took an extended 
course at Jefferson Medical College, at Phila- 
delphia, and received a diploma from that in- 
stitution in 1869. He came then to Berrys- 
burg, where he has since been in practice 
since that time. Dr. Kautz was married, in 
February, in I860, to Bmeline S. Miller, of 
Berrysburg, and to this marriage there is no 
issue. She died in 1888, and he married, in 
IV. mi. for his second wife. Sarah V. Kahler. 
of Berrysburg, and to this marriage no chil- 
dren have been horn. In politics Dr. Kautz 
is an ardent Democrat, and has served as 
school director. He is a member of the Lu- 
theran church, in which he is an elder and 
deacon. 



922 



BIO GRA PHI C A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



Lehman, William, farmer and stockman, 
Berrysburg, was born near St. Jobn Lu- 
theran church in Mifflin township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., February 7, 1857. John, the 
father, was a son of Samuel and was born 
in Mifflin township, June 10, 1821. He at- 
tended the subscription schools and acquired 
a fair education in German and English. He 
learned the trade of shoemaker and followed 
the occupation for some years, after which 
he rented a farm of sixty acres belonging to 
the church, which he operated for twenty- 
eight years. He then bought the farm of 
fifteen acres which his son now owns and 
occupies, upon which he erected buildings 
and made substantial improvements. He 
was married, in Mifflin township, to Denah 
Koppenheffer, born in the township in 1825. 
They have ten children: Anna, Henry, 
Mary, Amanda, deceased, John, Hannah, 
William, Sarah, Charles, and Emma, de- 
ceased. He died January 27, 1893. In poli- 
tics he was a Democrat and in faith and fel- 
lowship a Lutheran, and was an elder, deacon 
and trustee in the church. 

William attended school near Berrysburg, 
and worked on the farm until he attained 
his majority, when he lived out as a farm la- 
borer for twelve years. He took up butch- 
ery and continued at it one year, after which 
he returned to the homestead on which he 
has since been employed. He is not mar- 
ried but is the support and stay of his mother. 
In politics he is a Democrat and in religion 
a Lutheran, and is a deacon and Sunday- 
school teacher. His entire life has been 
spent in his native valley. 

Lenker, Valentine, harness maker, 
Berrysburg, Pa., was born in Washington 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., July 12, 
1838. Christian Lenker, the father, was born 
at the same place and was a farmer by oc- 
cupation. He married Susan Shott, born 
in Lykens Valley, and they had four chil- 
dren": Daniel S., Valentine, Christian, a 
physician in Schuylkill county, and Hiram, 
died young. The father served as county 
commissioner for one term, and in most of 
the township offices. He was a Democrat, 
and a member of the German Reformed 
church. He died on the old homestead, and 
his wife died in Jackson township in 1877. 

Valentine attended school in the town- 
ship and worked on the homestead, later he 
served an apprenticeship of four years at the 
trade of harness making with Josiah Yarger, 



after which he opened a shop in Wiconisco, 
which he conducted for several months, and 
then engaged in the same business near 
Harrisburg, and remained a short time. 
He then removed to Fisherville, where he 
worked at his trade in connection with car- 
riage trimming. September 21, 1861, he en- 
listed at Halifax in company E, Ninth regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania cavalry, Capt. J. E. 
Dealhuter and Col. Ed Williams, and served 
under General Kilpatrick until he was dis- 
charged December 24, 1864. After remain- 
ing at his home at Fisherville a short time, 
he obtained a position as a Government har- 
ness maker at Washington, D. C, which he 
held until the close of the war. He then re- 
turned to Berrysburg and resumed work at 
his trade, and continued until March, 1896, 
when he sold his business to William Miller. 
Mr. Lenker was married, at Fisherville, in 
1860, to Ellen E. Uhler, born at Harrisburg, 
and they have six children: Charles G; 
Anna L., wife of R. J. Robertson, salesman ; 
Maggie V., wife of R. M. Hoover; Harvey 
E., Thomas E., and one child who died in 
infancy ; his wife died May 14, 1892. In his 
political views Mr. Lenker is a Republican. 
He represented the county in the State Leg- 
islature one term, and served as burgess of 
Berrysburg, tax collector and justice of the 
peace. He is a member of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows, Patriotic Order 
Sons of America, and Grand Army of the 
Republic. In religious faith and fellowship 
he is with the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Miller, Jonathan, retired, Berrysburg, 
Pa., was born in Berks county, Pa., April 8, 
1812. Christian Miller, the father, was born 
in Maryland, and followed the occupation of 
carpenter, in Berks countv, where he died in 
1818. He married Mary Shall, of Berks 
county, and their children are : Isaac, de- 
ceased ; Catherine, deceased, wife of Fred. 
Yousel ; Sarah, widow of George Seibert ; 
Jonathan, and Samuel S., resides in Indiana. 
The father was a Democrat in politics, and 
in religious faith and fellowship was a 
Lutheran. The mother died in Berks 
county. 

Jonathan acquired a good education in 
the subscription schools of Berks county. 
He learned both English and German and 
still has in his possession the text books he 
used in his school days. At eleven years 
old he left home and became a clerk in a 
store in Berks countv, where he remained 



DAUl'IIIN COUNTY. 



in':; 



until he was fifteen years old. On June 12, 
1828, lie located in the wilds of Dauphin 
county, at a small place then called Ilcllers- 
town, and which subsequently received the 
name of Berrysburg. His first employment 
was as a general clerk in the store of Mr. 
Uhlman, with whom he remained twelve 
years and five months. At the end of this 
period, in 1S37, during the business panic of 
that time he embarked in business for him- 
self, and although the only money in circu- 
lation was the famous and infamous " shin 
plasters " of that time, he was successful 
in his venture and continued in business 
four years. During the next sixteen years he 
cultivated a farm of eighty-four acres, which 
he bought, and on which he made substantial 
improvements. Desiring a change of occupa- 
tion, he left the farm and removed to Berrys- 
burg, where he speculated in real estate and 
made loans. On account of the many and sub- 
stantial improvements in property made by 
him, he may fittingly be called the father 
of Berrysburg. Mr. Miller has mechanical 
tastes and talents and is an expert in 
the use of tools. He is also gifted with liter- 
ary ability, has a good memory, and has ac- 
cumulated a library of good books, valued 
at $1,000, and of course is deeply interested 
in education and all means for the intellec- 
tual betterment of the community. He was 
married, in Mifflin township, January 3, 
1832, to Elizabeth Bleistine, born in that 
township, January 3, 1815. Their children 
were: Sarah A. .died young; EmelineS.,Mrs. 
Kautz; Uriah, died young. His wife died 
in 18S2, and in 1884 he married Catherine 
Deibler, widow of Mr. Speck, and to this 
marriage there is no issue. Mr. Miller is a 
Democrat in politics, and he and his wife 
are members of the Lutheran church. He 
is retired from active business and is enjoy- 
ing the evening of life in a quiet and com- 
fortable home, cheered by the society of his 
wife and occupied with literature and art. 



Raker, Dk. William, Uniontown, Pillow 
P. 0., was bum in Northumberland county, 
Pa., in February, 1836. John, the father, 
was born in the same county and wasa phy- 
sician. He died in his native county in 
1n74. His wife, Elizabeth Barthomalue, was 
a native of the same county. Their children 
are: William; Katie, wife of J. Remger, 
coal dealer, in Northumberland county: 
Elizabeth, unmarried; ami Henry M., phy- 
ician. The father wasa Democrat of the 



old school, and in religious views was an old 
school Lutheran. 

William received his primary education in 
Augustaville and attended the high school at 
Selinsgrove and the college at Gettysburg. 
lie read medicine under his father and under 
Dr. Smith for two years, and was graduated 
from (lie medical college at Philadelphia in 
1854. Pie shared his father's practice at 
home for six months and then settled at 
Uniontown, where he has been in practice 
for over forty years and has met with large 
success in his professional work. He was 
married, in Northumberland county, in 1857, 
to Catherine Weaver, who was born at Ber- 
rysburg, Pa., and they have four children: 
Alice G, wife of J. S. Overholzer ; Ella J., 
wife of Prof. J. A. Eisenhaur; Clarence B., 
student of pharmacy; Clara, wife of J. J. 
Hoffman, merchant, Uniontown, Pa. His 
wife died November 2, 1871. He married, 
secondly, Emma Heller, of Easton, and they 
have four children: John W., Edward H., 
Maud, and Alvin J., all at school. Dr. 
Raker is a Democrat and served in the office 
of burgess for a number of years and also as 
secretary of the council. He is a member of 
the Odd Fellows and Knights of 1'vthias. 



Reed, Dr. J. J., Uniontown, Pillow P. 0., 
Pa., was born in Northumberland county, 
Pa., August 18, 1840. David, the father, 
was a native of the same county, owning 
and cultivating a farm of one hundred 
and forty acres, in connection with which 
he run a saw mill. He married Cath- 
erine Hass, of the same county. Their 
children are: Jacob, Mary, Eva, Susan, 
Lenesia, Daniel, Henry, Samuel, Dr. J. J., 
Harriet, Melinda, Oscar, and two children 
who died in infancy. The father was a Re- 
publican in politics and a member of the 
Lutheran church. 

Dr. J. J. received his primary education 
in the public schools of his native place, and 
also was graduated from the high school. For 
four winters he taught school, and served as 
assistant teacher in the high school. In 
August, 1862, he enlisted at Harrisburg in 
company C, One Hundred and Thirty-first 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, ('apt. 
Homer N. Jones and Colonel Allaback, and 
served nine months. After his discharge 
from the service he returned home and be- 
gan the study of medicine. He read under 
Dr. Pennand Dr. E. S. Bobbins, of Shamokin, 
for three years, and then entered Jefferson 



924 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Medical College, from which he was gradu- 
ated in 1866, after which he practiced in his 
native county for three years. In 1869 he 
came to Dauphin county and settled in 
Uniontown, where he has since been in prac- 
tice and has met with gratifying sucoess. 
Dr. Reed was married, at Uniontown, in 
1869, to Catherine, daughter of Dr. B. H. 
Laubach, of that place. Their children are : 
Lizzie, unmarried ; Clara, wife of Dr. Elmer 
Hoffman ; Arthur ; Jay E., attending school, 
and Vernie. His wife died in 1878, and the 
following year he married Addie E. Bassler, 
by whom he has one child, Henry, at school. 
Dr. Reed is a Republican in his political 
views, and is a school director. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church and is an 
elder and deacon in the same. He is a 
member of the Odd Fellows and the Grand 
Army of the Republic. 

Shoop, Rev. James, pastor of the United 
Brethren church, Berrysburg, Pa., was born 
in Jefferson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
October 17, 1840. John Shoop, the grand- 
father, was born in Lykens Valley and was 
of Swiss descent. He removed to Jackson 
township, where he followed farming. He 
married Elizabeth Cooper. They both passed 
away in Jackson township and both were 
members of the Lutheran church. In poli- 
tics he was an old line Whig. George, the 
father, was born in Jackson township in 1812. 
He acquired a fair education in the German 
schools and became a farmer, owning and 
cultivating a farm of two hundred acres, on 
which he operated extensively in raising 
stock. In clearing land and making a farm 
with all its improvements, he was a typical 
pioneer, and also had another characteristic 
of that honored class, he was a good shot and 
loved to hunt. He married Rachel Suer- 
gard, born in Armstrong A^alley. Their chil- 
dren are: Andrew, William, James, Samuel, 
Elias, Philip, Harvey, John, Adam, Amanda, 
Nathan, and Emma. Mr. Shoop took an 
active part in political matters and was a 
Whig in his views. He was a member of the 
United Brethren church and a practical 
Christian, looking faithfully after the welfare 
of his home and family. He died in Jeffer- 
son township in 1864. His wife survives 
him and is living at Carsonville, at the ripe 
old age of eighty years'and is still active in 
church matters. 

James received only a limited education, 
as he began farm work in earnest when nine 



years of age, and was employed on the home- 
stead until he was twenty years old, at which 
time he left home and worked as a farm 
laborer for one year, and then returned to the 
homestead and worked three years longer. 
In February, 1865, he enlisted at Harrisburg 
in company H, One Hundred and Ninety- 
second regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
Capt. Peter Bergstresser, Col. W. W. Stewart, 
and spent seven months in the service, being 
discharged at Harper's Ferry, September, 
1865. Upon returning from the army he 
took up the study of theology and began 
preaching. He was ordained to the ministry 
by the annual conference, met at Belleview in 
1869. His first charge was the Belleview cir- 
cuit, and then followed Germanville, Sink- 
ing Springs, Pine Grove, Lykenstown mission, 
Valley View circuit and Allen town station, 
spending two years in each of these appoint- 
ments. He was elected presiding elder at 
Pine Grove conference and for five years was 
located at Carsonville, then he had the Avon 
circuit one year and Lebanon one year, after 
which he was elder again for five years, being 
elected at the Elizabethville conference, and 
residing at Lebanon during the term. After 
one year on the Valley View circuit he was 
stationed at Berrysburg, and has that charge 
at the present time. He has greatly strength- 
ened the charge, adding to the membership 
and improving the property. His preaching 
ability is acknowledged and his personal 
worth appreciated by a grateful people. Mr. 
Shoop was married, in Berrysburg in 1867, 
to Sarah A. Hoy, born in Mifflin township in 
1848 ; daughter of Peter Hoy, farmer, in that 
township. Their children are : Curtin A., 
Emma E, Harvey E., William H, Elmer H., 
and Sadie. In politics he is a Prohibitionist. 



Straub, Amos, farmer, Berrysburg, Pa., 
was born in Schuylkill county, Pa., Septem- 
ber 14, 1836 ; son of John and Christina 
(Home) Straub, and a brother of William. 
Straub, farmer in Mifflin township. He at- 
tended subscription schools in his native 
township and began working on the farm 
when he was six years old, working with his 
uncle and looking after the cattle, and re- 
mained with him one year. He then hired 
to a farmer as a farm hand, working for his 
board and clothing, and remained in that 
place on those terms for seven years. At 
fourteen years of age he left his employer 
and contracted to work for another farmer 
for seven to eight dollars per month, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



925 



remained with this man until lie was twenty- 
one years of age. After working one year 
for a shoemaker, he came to his brother 
William and worked for him two years, and 
then for another farmer one year, after 
which lie rented a small farm which he cul- 
tivated a year and a half, and in connection 
with his farming drove a coal team. He 
then bought a team and traded through the 
country for two years, after which he worked 
rented farms on the shares in MifHin town- 
ship. On April 2, 1887, he bought forty-five 
acres of land owned by W. M. Switzer, and 
has since been engaged in farming and raising 
stock. He was married, in 1861, in Mifflin 
township, to May Delfill, a native of that 
township, born in 1841. Their children are : 
John, Edwin, .Samuel S., Milton, Harvey C, 
deceased, David F., died young, and two 
children who died in infancy. In his poli- 
tics Mr. Straub is a Democrat. He has 
served as a school director, superintendent 
of roads one year, and as inspector of elec- 
tions. In religious views and fellowship he 
is a Lutheran. 



Snyder, John D., justice of the peace, 
Berrysburg, Pa., was born in Lykens town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., December 9, 1827. 
The great-grandfather came from Germany 
and settled in Lancaster county before the 
Revolutionary war. Leonard Snyder, the 
grandfather, was one of the first settlers in 
Lykens township. He was a farmer, and 
a soldier in the war of the Revolution. He 
was married, in Lykens Valley, to Amanda 
Sholt, a. native of the valley, and their chil- 
dren were: John, Samuel, ami Elizabeth. 
The grandfather was a Democrat in polities, 
and took an active part in township matters. 
He and his family were members of the Ger- 
man Reformed church. They were pioneers, 
and experienced the hardships and enjoyed 
the advantages of pioneer life. 

John, the father, was horn in Lykens town- 
ship in 1794,and obtained a fairlygood edu- 
cation in the subscription schools of the 
township. He was prominent in the advo- 
cacy of the public School system, and worked 

nigb.1 and day to secure its adoption by the 

State. He was a tanner and stock raiser, 
and cultivated a farm of one hundred and 

fifty acres, which lie greatly improved, lie 
married Anna May Wert, who was horn in 
Lykens Valley in 1 7'. •''. Their children were: 
Jacob, John, Leonard, Emanuel, and one 



child who died in infancy. The mother died 
in is;;.!, and hemarried Elizabeth Enterline, 
widow of George Lark, of Lykens Valley, by 

whom he had one child, who died in infancy. 
He died on the homestead in L849. In po- 
litical views he was a Democrat, and took 
an active part in his party's measures. His 
religious fellowship was in the German Re- 
formed church. His wife died at Berrysburg, 
in 1809. 

John D. attended the subscription schools 
taught at the Hoffman church during the 
winter months. He also attended the public 
school at Berrysburg for a short time, lie 
worked on the homestead at farming until 
he was sixteen years old, when he came to 
Berrysburg and learned the trade of iron 
moulder, in the foundry of Shaffer & Wen- 
rich, where he worked two years. The linn 
then sold out, and he went to Pittsburgh, 
where he worked one year in the foundry, 
and then returned to Berrysburg and en- 
gaged in business for himself. He and his 
brother bought the foundry and operated it 
a year and a. half, after which be bought his 
brother's interest, and continued to run the 
business alone for upwards of fifty 3 r ears, 
which he has made very successful, manu- 
facturing stoves, plows, and other articles. 
He also owns a farm in the township. He 
built the first brick house in Berrysburg, at 
a cost of §9,000. Through unwise indorse- 
ments he lost his handsome accumulations 
made by many years of hard work, his losses 
aggregating $14,000. He was married, in Ly- 
kens Valley, in 1S49, to Hannah Lark, born 
in the valley, December 26, 1827. Their chil- 
dren are: Jennie, Mary, Rachel, Joseph, Ar- 
thur L., John T., Elizabeth, and Edwin, the 
last two deceased. Mr. Snyder is a Republican 
in politics, and for thirty-five years has been 
justice of the peace, always being re-elected 
by good majorities. He is a just and judi- 
cious officer, and his rulings are seldom re- 
versed in the higher courts. In 1872 he was 
elected associate judge of the count}', ami 
served for five years. He has solemnized 
many marriages in the town and township. 
Mr. Snyder is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church, in which he holds the 
office of trustee, and is also the superintend- 
ent of the Sunday-school. He has been a Un- 
delegate to the conference. In fraternity cir- 
cles he is prominent as a member of the 
Masonic order, and of Millersburg Lodge, 
No. 360, I. 0. 0. F. 



926 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Weaver, David B., farmer and stockman, 
Berrysburg was born on the homestead in 
Mifflin township, Dauphin county, Pa., De- 
cember 5, 1842. Peter, the grandfather, was 
born in Germany, and was brought to this 
country by his parents when he was one year 
old. He was reared in Lykens township, 
and became a farmer, owning and cultivating 
one hundred acres of land. He married a Miss 
Peifer, of Lykens township, and to them were 
born seven children : Jacob, Peter, John, 
George J., Daniel, Anna M., and Elizabeth. 
He died in Lykens township. He and his 
wife were members of the German Reformed 
church. In politics he was a Whig. Daniel, 
the father, was born in Lykens township, in 
September, 1805. He attended subscription 
schools and acquired a good German educa- 
tion. He learned the trade of carpenter and 
joiner, and later in life became a farmer. 
He bought a farm of forty-three acres of land 
in Mifflin township, which he cultivated and 
improved and on which he died in 1883. 
He married Susan Buffmgton, of Washington 
township, a daughter of Daniel Buffmgton, 
a farmer. They have four children : Isaac, 
David, Sarah, deceased, and Martin. Mr. 
Weaver was a Republican, and a member of 
the German Reformed church. His wife 
died at the homestead in 1878. David at- 
tended the common schools and worked on 
the farm. At nine years of age he began to 
do regular work on the homestead, and has 
been continually employed his entire life. 
He was married, in Mifflin township, in 1863, 
to Catherine Motter, born in Washington 
township. Their children are: Mary S., 
wife of Peter Bunder; Amanda, Harry, 
and Daniel, attending school. His wife died 
in September, 1892, and he married again, 
July 4, 1895, Salome Engle, widow of Amos 
Motter. Mr. Weaver is a Republican in 
politics and has served as school director for 
nine years. He is a member of the Reformed 
church, and holds the office of elder and 
deacon, and is also a Sunday-school teacher. 



Witmee, Daniel, retired farmer, Mifflin 
township, was born in Northumberland 
county, near the Dauphin county line, Feb- 
ruary 26, 1821. Daniel, the father, was also 
born in Northumberland count}', and fol- 
lowed the occupation of blacksmith in his 
younger days, and later cultivated a farm in 
Mifflin township and was engaged in raising 
stock. He married Susan Bower, a native 
of the same county, and they had eight chil- 



dren : Jacob, deceased, Kate, Samuel, Polly, 
Sarah, Daniel, Elizabeth, and John. His 
wife died in Northumberland county, and 
he married again, but the name of his sec- 
ond wife is not known. He died in Mifflin 
township. He was an old line Whig in 
politics, and in religious faith and fellow- 
ship was with the German Reformed church. 
Daniel received only a limited education, 
having attended subscription schools only 
six months in the winter season. He worked 
on the farm as a laborer and received $3 
per month, and was occupied in this 
way until he was sixteen years old, when he 
learned the trade of wagon making at 
Uniontown, and worked two years at the 
trade. He then started a shop in Berrys- 
burg, which he conducted for fifteen years, 
and built up a profitable trade. He bought 
twenty-one acres of woodland, for which he 
paid $90 per acre. It took him years of 
hard work to clear the ground and make 
improvements, but he finally built a fine 
residence and good barn, and made a first- 
class farm. He has also two houses in 
Berrysburg. He was married, in Mifflin 
township, in 1844, to Rebecca Reher, born 
in Pine Grove, Schuylkill county, in 1823 ; 
daughter of John Reher, a farmer. Their 
children are: Emeline, Alice S., Henry N., 
Ann Eliza, Daniel, Agnes, William, David, 
John, and Edmund, who died young. Mr. 
Witmer is a Republican in politics, and has 
held the office of school director and other 
township offices. He is a member of the 
German Reformed church, in which he 
served as elder and deacon. He is retired 
from active work through bodily infirmity, 
and is faithfully cared for by his faithful 
wife. 



App, Francis, farmer and stockman, Ber- 
rysburg, was born in Selinsgrove, Snyder 
county, Pa., August 31, 1848. John, the 
grandfather, was born at the same place in 
1804, and was a farmer. Isaac was also a 
native of Selinsgrove and came later to own 
and cultivate one hundred and fifty acres of 
land. He married, at Berrysburg, in 1847, 
Mary Holtzman, born in Lykens Valley; 
daughter of Jonathan Holtzman. Their 
children are: Francis, John G., Daniel. N., 
and Henry Jackson. The father died at 
Selinsgrove in 1872. He was a member of 
the Lutheran church. In politics he was a 
Republican and served in the office of school 
director. His wife died on the homestead 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



927 



in 188(3. Francis attended the public schools 
until lie was sixteen years of age, when he 
began regular work on the homestead, and 
remained there until he was thirty-four years 
old. He then went to Union county and 
rented a farm, which he cultivated for twelve 
years. After this he returned to Dauphin 
county and took a farm of one hundred and 
four acres in Mifflin township, where he has 
since been engaged in farming and stock 
raising. He was married, in Selinsgrove, in 
1SS1, to Sarah Miller, born at Mt. Carmel, 
Northumberland county; daughter of Adam 
Miller. They have three children : George, 
Harry, and Frank, all attending school, two 
of whom are at the Millersburg Seminary. 
Mr. App is a Republican and served as 
school director two terms and he takes an 
active part in political matters. In religious 
views he is a Lutheran. 



REED TOWNSHIP. 



Lexker, Charles H., telegraph operator, 
was born in Millersburg. Dauphin county, 
Pa., September 5, 1871, and is a son of 
David G. and Emily (Kuntzleman) Lenker. 
His early life was spent under the paternal 
roof in his native town, where he received 
his education in the public schools. Com- 
pleting his school days he entered the Mil- 
lersburg office of the Pennsylvania railroad 
and there learned telegraphy, after which he 
worked in various offices for this company 
between Renovo and Rockville station. Since 
January, 1894, he has been located at Clark's 
Ferry as operator. 

Mr. Lenker was married, in Duncannon, 
June 27, 1895, to Miss Emma C. Bechtel, 
daughter of H. Edward and Elizabeth 
Bechtel, who for a number of years were 
honored residents of Dauphin county, but 
now reside in Perry county. Mr. Linker is 
a member of Millersburg Commandery, No. 
loo, Knights of Malta, and Junior I Irder 
United American Mechanics, of Duncannon. 
In his political views he is a Republican. 
He and his estimable wife are consistent 
members of the Lutheran church, and re- 
side in Duncannon, Perry county. Pa., where 
they are held in high esteem by their 
neighbors and acquaintances. 



Heikel, Henry, was born in Harrisburg) 
Pa., April 12, 1828, and died in Reed town- 
ship, Dauphin county, October 5, 1894; son 
of Christopher and Mary (Ridge) Heikel. 
The maternal grandfather, Dr. Tate, was a 
native of Ireland. The father was a butcher 
by trade and was married to Miss Mary 
Ridge, a native of Harrisburg, who is now 
deceased. Their children were: Christopher, 
Jr., David, Henry, Joseph, Elizabeth, and 
Catharine. Henry came to Reed township 
when a mere boy and became a boatman, 
which occupation he followed all his life. 
He married Martha Jane Byoely, who was 
born in Youngstown, Westmoreland county. 
Their children are: Thomas, living on 
Duncan's Island, Dauphin county ; Christo- 
pher, deceased; and Henry, Duncan's 
Island. 



Westfall, John C, farmer, was born in 
Harrisburg, Pa., March 16, 1828; sou of 
Simeon and Hannah (Barr) Westfall. The 
maternal grandfather, Robert Barr, came 
from Ireland when a young man and as- 
sisted in the construction of the State capi- 
tol buildings. The father was born in Indi- 
ana, in 1793, and left his native place when 
a young man and came to Harrisburg. For 
many years he handled merchandise with a 
six horse team between Pittsburgh and Phil- 
adelphia. His business not being profitable 
after the building of the Pennsylvania rail- 
road, he started a tavern called the Black 
Horse, in Harrisburg. His new venture 
proved a success and he made considerable 
money. He was on his way to Baltimore, 
during the war of 1812, to join the army, 
when peace was declared. He died in Har- 
risburg and was survived by his wife who 
lived some years longer. Their children 
were: George Washington, deceased ; Sarah 
•lane; Mary Ann, deceased ; Catharine, de- 
ceased; Permelia, deceased ; Emmaline, and 
John C. 

John attended the common schools of 
Harrisburg until he was nineteen years of 
age. In 1847 he came to Duncan's Island, 
and entered the butcher business. Here he 
remained until 1SG8. when he purchased the 
pleasant place of eighty-seven acres where 
lie now lives, and began farming. He was 
married, in Harrisburg, in 1848, to Miss 
Catharine Mader, by whom he had three 
children, all of whom are dead. He mar- 
ried, secondly, in L857, Miss Mary E. Fess- 
ler, now deceased, by whom lie had twochil- 



928 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



dren, both of whom are dead. His third 
marriage occurred in 1861, to Miss Mary 
Margaret Byerly, who was born in Youngs- 
town, Pa. Their children are: John, who 
died when four years old ; George, employed 
in United States Revenue service; Franklin 
B. at home, and Brittomart C. A Democrat 
in politics, he has served as justice of the 
peace for thirty-five years, was postmaster 
several years, school director, and is now 
president of the school board. 



SOUTH HANOA^ER TOWNSHIP. 



Farnsler, Milton A., notary public, was 
born in South Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., November 8, 1854. He is a son 
of Joseph and Elizabeth (Mook) Farnsler, 
natives of Lebanon county, who came to 
Dauphin county and located first in West 
Hanover and afterwards in South Hanover 
township. Joseph Farnsler was a civil engi- 
neer and actively employed. He served as 
justice of the peace in South Hanover town- 
ship for twenty-five years. He was a direc- 
tor of the Hummelstown National Bank. 
His politics were Democratic. He was a 
member of the Reformed church, and died 
in 1876. His wife, Elizabeth (Mook) Farns- 
ler, survives him, residing in Union Deposit. 
They had six children : Malinda, Mrs. Abra- 
ham Fackler, of Union Deposit; Milton A.; 
Sarah, Mrs. Samuel H. Gingerich, Derry 
township; Mildred, wife of Rev. Martin P. 
Hocker, Steelton ; Clara, Mrs. Michael Cas- 
sel, West Hanover township ; Maggie, Mrs. 
Samuel H. Albright, Harrisburg, Pa. 

Milton A. Farnsler was educated in the 
public schools and at Palatinate College, 
Meyerstown, Pa., after which he studied civil 
engineering with his father, and has since 
followed that profession. Mr. Farnsler was 
married, in 1876, to Miss Lizzie M., daugh- 
ter of Levi Hocker, of Harrisburg. Thej r 
have one child, Hershey H. Mr. Farnsler 
is a Democrat. He has served three terms — 
ten years — as justice of the peace of South 
Hanover township. In 1892 he was ap- 
pointed notary public. He was one of the 
organizers, and is a director and the secre- 
tary of the Union Deposit Creamery Com- 
pany. He and his wife are members of the 
United Brethren church. 



Snyder, John D., was born in Annville, 
Lebanon county, Pa., August 17, 1844. He 
is a son of Frederick and Christina (Speece) 
Snyder, natives of Prussia, Germany. They 
both came to America when they were young, 
were married in Philadelphia and settled in 
Lebanon county. Frederick Snyder was a 
tanner. About 1849 he removed to East 
Hanover, Dauphin county, and leased the 
Weise tannery, which he conducted four 
years, after which he returned to Annville 
and worked in the Beaver tannery for twenty- 
two years. He then purchased a tannery 
near Palmyra, which he conducted until his 
death in 1860. He was an active member 
of the Reformed church, which he served 
successively as deacon and as elder. His 
wife survives him and has her home with her 
son, John D. Snyder. ' Their children are : 
Lewis, of Lebanon county ; William, Sus- 
quehanna township, Dauphin county ; John 
D. ; George F., died aged eight years ; Re- 
becca, wife of Joseph Lutz, Lebanon county ; 
Edward, of Palmyra ; Elizabeth, deceased, 
married Samuel Lutz ; and Harry, deceased. 

John D. Snyder was reared in Lebanon 
and Dauphin counties and attended the 
township schools. He learned tailoring and 
also worked some time in a rolling mill at 
Duncannon. In _1861 Mr. Snyder enlisted 
in company F, Ninety-third regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, and served eleven 
months, when he was honorably discharged, 
with the rank of corporal, on account of 
rheumatism. He re-enlisted, in 1863, in 
company G, One Hundred and Forty-ninth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. At the 
battle of Spottsylvania, May 10, 1864, he was 
so seriously wounded by the bursting of a 
shell that both legs had to be amputated be- 
low the knees ; the operation was performed 
in the field hospital at Fredericksburg, Va. 
He was sent to the Columbia College Hos- 
pital, Washington, D. O, and thence trans- 
ferred to Philadelphia. He was in the hos- 
pitals at Twenty-fourth and South streets, 
Ninth and Christian streets, and Crosier's 
College, between Chester and Upland, Chester 
county. He was honorably discharged from 
the service, and as soon as convalescent re- 
turned home. Mr. Snyder took part in the 
battles at Williamsburg and Fair Oaks, the 
Seven Days' fight around Richmond, Wil- 
derness, and the fight at Spottsylvania. 

He was married, in 1876, to Miss Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Henry Poorman, of Leba- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



929 



nun county. In L879 Mr. Snyder removed 
to Union Deposit, where he has since re- 
sided. He is a trustee of the Union Deposit 
Creamery Company. He is a member of 
Sedgwick Post, G. A. I;., nf Hummelstown, 
and' of Camp No. 302, P. 0. S. of A., in 
which he lias passed through the chairs. He 
is a Republican; he lias served as judge of 
elections and inspector. Mr. Snyder and his 
family are members of the Reformed church. 
His children are: Minnie, David, Clarence, 
Jonathan, and by adoption Alice Lutz. 



Hoerner, Lieut. Peter, was boru in 
what is now South Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., September 10, 1822. He 
is a son of Maj. John and Magdalena (Eber- 
sole) Hoerner. His grandfather, Andrew 
Hoerner, was a native of Lancaster county, 
and one of the pioneers of Dauphin county. 
Pie was a soldier of the Revolution. His 
children were: Annie, Mrs. John Berst; 
Xancy, Mrs. John Ebersole ; Henry, Mala- 
chi, John, George, Jacob, Michael, William, 
and Andrew. His son Jacob became a car- 
penter and undertaker; Hoernerstown was 
named for him. 

John Ploerner, father of Lieutenant Hoer- 
ner, was born in South Hanover township, 
in 1783. He was a farmer. Pie was in the 
war of 1S12, and ranked as major. After 
his marriage he settled on his father's home- 
stead. He was a member of the Lutheran 
church. He was first a Whig and after- 
wards a Republican, although lie voted for 
Andrew Jackson for President. He served 
as director of the poor and in other township 
offices. He died in 1875; his wife in 1867. 
( if their twelve children, six are living: Cap- 
tain John, of East Hanover township ; Lucy, 
maiden lady ; Barbara, Mrs. Henry Yiugst, 
Derry township ; Peter, of South Hanover 
township; Albert, of Steel ton ; and Cyrus, of 
Hoernerstown. 

Lieut. Peter Hoerner was brought up on 
the homestead, and lias followed farming, 
milling, etc. He was married, in L845, to 
Susan Brenneman, daughter of Christian 
Brenneman, of South Hanover township. 
They have five children living: Barbara M., 
Mrs. Frederick Rhoads, of Missouri ; Anna 
Lucy, Mrs. John S. Walters, of Pen brook : 
Henry Clay, of Lower Paxton township: 
William Harrison, of Lower Paxton town- 
ship: and Mary Elizabeth. Mrs. Levi Hab- 
aehcr. of Hummelstown : John, and Andrew 
also died in infancy. 



The lieutenant was a Whig and afterwards 
a Republican. He has served the township 
as school director, auditor, supervisor and 
tax collector. He was formerly a stock- 
holder in the Hummelstown Bank. He 
settled on his present farm in 1S48. He 
also conducts a saw and chop mill. Lieu- 
tenant Hoerner is a deacon in the Lutheran 
church, at Hoernerstown, and contributed 
liberally to the building of the church edi- 
fice. In 1842 he was commissioned lieu- 
tenant of company Fourth, Thirty-sixth regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania militia; also in 1S62 he 
enlisted as an emergency man under Capt. 
Graff; also in 1863 enlisted in company E, 
Thirty -sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, and served from June to August ; also 
in 1865 enlisted in company D, One Hun- 
dred and First regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, served from March to July. 



Allwine, John H., farmer, Hummels- 
town, Pa., was born in Swatara township, 
July 13, 1870; son of John B. and Catherine 
(Stout) Allwine, the former a native of Leba- 
non, the latter]of Dauphin county. Jonas 
Allwine, the grandfather of John H., was 
one of the early settlers of Swatara town- 
ship. He was a farmer and lime burner 
and was a director in the Hummelstown 
Bank. He married Mary Bomck, and the}' 
had these children: Louisa, deceased; Annie, 
Mrs. Martin Ebersole, of Middletown, Pa.: 
Jonas, of Swatara township, and John B., 
deceased. John B., the father, was a farmer 
and lime burner, and located on the home- 
stead farm, when he died in 1872, his wife 
surviving him. Their children are : Mary, 
Mrs. Samuel Etter, of East Hanover town- 
ship ; John H, and Kate. Mrs. George Baker, 
of Middle Paxton township. 

John II. taught school in Middle Paxton 
and Lower Paxton townships, and in 1893 
located on his present farm. In 1S01 he was 
married to Miss Sarah, daughter of John 
Cassel, of West Hanover township. They 
have two children: Bessie and Mary. Mr. 
Allwine in his political views is a Republi- 
can. He has served in the orlice of school 
director. 



Baker, John M., teacher, Union Deposit, 
Pa., was born in Lower Swatara township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., June 15, 1863; son of 
John and Catherine (May) Baker. Fred- 
erick Baker, the grandfather, came from 
Lancaster county, was an early settler in 



930 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Dauphin county, and a member of the Ger- 
man Baptist church. John Baker, the 
father, was born in Dauphin county in 1824, 
was a blacksmith by trade and followed that 
occupation for twenty-eight years, but is now 
engaged in farming in Middle Paxton town- 
ship. In his religious views and membership 
he is with the German Baptist church. His 
children are : Annie, Mrs. Christian Miller, 
of Middle Paxton township ; Jacob M., of 
Middle Paxton township ; John M.; Fannie, 
Mrs. Joseph McCorkle, of East Hanover 
township ; and George M, of Middle Paxton 
township. 

John M. was educated in the public 
schools, Berrysburg Seminary, and the State 
Normal School at Bloomsburg, Pa. In 1SS2 
he adopted teaching as his profession and 
occupation and has taught schools in Leba- 
non county and in. Middle Paxton and East 
and West Hanover townships, Dauphin 
county. Mr. Baker was married, in 1887, to 
Miss Mary Ann Snavely, daughter of Peter 
Snavely, of East Hanover township, Lebanon 
county. In his politics he is a Republican. 
He is a member of the Lutheran church of 
Union Deposit. 



Book, David N., farmer, Union Deposit, 
Pa., was born in Lancaster county, Pa., Sep- 
tember 4, 1831 ; son of Daniel and Christina 
(Neff) Book, natives of Lancaster county. 
He was married, December 25, 1860, to Miss 
Fannie S. Creider, of Lancaster county. In 
1873 he came to Dauphin county, and settled 
on the farm which he now occupies. His 
children are: Annie, Mrs. George R. Cassel, 
of East Hanover township; Emma, Mrs. 
John E. Kramer, of the same township ; 
Enos, on the homestead farm ; Lizzie, Mrs. 
Jacob Frausnaught, of Derry township ; 
Mary, Mrs. Harry Kettering, of Palmyra, 
Pa.; Fannie, and David. The family are 
members of the United Zion's Children 
church. 



Blough, George, retired, Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born in Lebanon county, in Decem- 
ber, 1821 ; son of George and Elizabeth (Mil- 
ler) Blough, natives of Lebanon county, and 
of German ancestry. He moved to West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, with 
his mother and stepfather when three years 
of age, and was there reared and learned the 
trade of mason, which has been his occupa- 
tion through life. His residence has been 
at Hoernerstown for over fifty years. Mr. 



Blough was married, in 1844, to Miss Mary 
Keller, daughter of Martin Keller, of South 
Hanover township, and they have three chil- 
dren, the eldest of whom is Harry K., M. D., 
of Elizabethtown, born in 1845, read medi- 
cine under Dr. Keller, and was graduated 
from the Jefferson Medical College at Phila- 
delphia. He first engaged in the practice of 
medicine at Bachmansville, and removed 
from that place to Elizabeth, where he has 
since been professionally employed. In 1891 
he was elected member of the State House of 
Representatives on the Republican ticket, 
and served one term in that office with dis- 
tinction. He was married to Elizabeth 
Shank, of Lebanon county, and has two chil- 
dren, Jennie, wife of Dr. D. F. Kline, of Lan- 
caster, Pa., and Albert S. The second child 
of Mr. George Blough is Sarah, and the third 
David H., born November 3, 1854, and was 
educated at Palmyra Academy. He taught 
school for twelve years in Dauphin and Lan- 
caster counties, and since then has been en- 
gaged in farming and raising fine horses. 
In his political views he is a Democrat. Mr. 
George Blough is a member of the United 
Brethren church, in which he has served as 
a class leader for many years. 



Cassel, Martin S., farmer, Hummels- 
town, Pa., was born in South Hanover town- 
shrp, Dauphin county, Pa., July 31, 1857 ; 
son of Uriah and Barbara (Hocker) Cassel. 
He attended the schools of his native town- 
ship and learned the trade of a tanner with 
his father, which he has always followed as 
an occupation. In 1889 he established a 
leather and finding store in Lebanon, Pa., 
which he is still conducting, and in 1893 
rented his father's tannery, of which he has 
been the manager and proprietor since that 
date. Mr. Cassel was married, in 1888, to 
Miss Jennie A., daughter of Joseph Cassel, of 
Paxton township, and they have one child, 
Floyd F. In politics he is a Democrat, in 
religious views and membership a Lutheran, 
and is the organist of the church and Sab- 
bath-school to which he belongs. 



Cassel, John W., farmer, Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born on the farm where he now re- 
sides, May 12, 1866; son of John and Mary 
(Hoyer) Cassel. He received his education 
in the township school and in Millersburg 
Academy, and subsequently taught school in 
South Hanover township for six terms, after 
which he worked at the tanning business for 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



931 



three years, and then engaged an farming, 
which has since been his occupation. Mr. 
Cassel was married, in April, 1886, to Miss 
Mary, daughter of Uriah Cassel, of South 
Hanover township, D3 7 whom he has two chil- 
dren : Flora Elizabeth and Lelia May. He 
is a member of the Patriotic Order Sons of 
America, and of the Junior Order United 
American Mechanics, while in his political 
views he is a Republican. Mr. Cassel holds 
membership and the office of deacon in the 
Lutheran church. 



Cassel, Uriah, Hummelstown, Pa., was 
born in South Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., February 5, 1830 ; son of David 
and Catherine (Horst) Cassel. The father 
was born in South Hanover township, No- 
vember 27, 1895. He learned the trade of 
tanner from his father-in-law Michael Horst, 
and succeeded to the Horst estate, conducting 
the tannery for many years. In his jJolitical 
views Mr. Cassel was a Democrat and served 
in the office of county commissioner. He 
was prominent in the membership of the 
Lutheran church of Hummelstown. His 
wife died at the age of seventy-nine years. 
They reared nine children : Amos, of South 
Hanover ; Uriah ; Solomon, of East Han- 
over, Daniel H., of East Hanover; Cath- 
erine, Mrs. John Sidles, of Swatara town- 
ship ; Louisa, deceased, Mrs. John C. Ging- 
rick; Lucetta, Mrs. Michael Mast, of In- 
diana ; Mary ; Mrs. Aaron Gingrick, of South 
Hanover, and an infant deceased. 

Uriah Cassel learned the trade of tanner 
of his father, and has been engaged in the 
business for fifty years. In 1851 he became 
the owner of his present tannery, which he 
conducted until 1893, when he retired from 
its active management. Mr. Cassel is one of 
the wealthy men of the region, is largely in- 
terested in farming and was formerly one of 
the directors of the Hummelstown National 
Bank. He was married, in 1851, to Miss 
Barbara Hocker, daughter of Martin Hocker 
of Deny township. Their children are: 
Amanda, Mrs. John F. Seibert, of South 
Hanover township ; David B., Hummels- 
town ; Martin, of South Hanover township ; 
Frank, of South Hanover; Mary, Mrs. John 
W. Cassel, of South Hanover township, and 
Abner, who died in 1891, aged thirty-one 
years. Mr. Cassel is a member of the Lu- 
theran church, and is one of the trustees of 
the organization. 



Ebersole, Levi, farmer, Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born on the farm which he now 
occupies, January 8, 1844. Peter Ebersole, 
the great-grandfather of Levi, was the first 
of the family to settle in Dauphin county. 
His son John, the grandfather of Levi, was 
born in South Hanover township and mar- 
ried Nancy Hoerner, by whom he had five 
children : Andrew ; John ; Peter, deceased ; 
Barbara, Mrs. Jacob Stouffer, of Lower Pax- 
ton township ; Annie, Mrs. Jacob Pease, of 
Danville, 111. Andrew, the father of Levi, 
was born in South Hanover township, June 
4, 1814, and in 1843 settled on the farm now 
occupied by his son Levi, which he greatly 
improved. He was a Republican in politics 
and filled several township offices. He was 
a prominent member of the Hummelstown 
Lutheran church, and one of the committee 
appointed to rebuild the church edifice in 
1855. His death occurred in 1890, and that 
of his wife in 1880. They had six children 
who died in infancy, and four who grew to 
maturity : Levi W.; John A., Lower Paxton 
township ; Alice, South Hanover township ; 
Clara, Mrs. Reuben Plouse, of South Han- 
over township. 

Levi W. was married, in 1872, to Eliza- 
beth, daughter of David Kruger, of York 
county. Thev have five children : Samuel 
W., David K., Mabel Elizabeth, Bertha May, 
and Blanche Louise. Mr. Ebersole is a 
member of the Prohibition party, and has 
served as school director. He is a member 
of the Hummelstown Lutheran church, in 
which he holds the office of trustee, and is ' 
superintendent of the Sunday-school. 



Earnest, Simon F., M. D., Union Deposit, 
Pa., was born in Hummelstown, Pa., Octo- 
ber 8, 1867 ; son of Richard and Annie 
(Fleisher) Earnest. He was reared by his 
grandparents at Annville, Pa., where he at- 
tended the public schools and took a course 
at the Annville College. His private pre- 
ceptor in medicine was Dr. E. B. Marshall, 
of Annville, with whom he pursued the 
usual course of reading and preparatory 
study, after which he was graduated in 1891, 
from the medical department of the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania. He began the 
practice of medicine at Union Deposit im- 
mediately upon his graduation, where he 
has been professional^" employed since that 
time. Dr. Earnest was married, in 1892, to 



932 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Miss Laura Bale, daughter of Jacob Bale, of 
Hummelstown, Pa. In his political views 
Dr. Earnest is a Republican. 



Horst, Michael, farmer, Hummelstown, 
Pa., was born May 13, 1S47, on the farm on 
which he now has his residence. He is a 
son of Peter and Magdaline (Snyder) Horst. 
In 1870 he was married to Miss Mary Louck, 
daughter of John Louck, of South Hanover 
township. They have two children : Landis 
and Charles. Mr. Horst has always had his 
home on the farm on which he is now living. 
He is a consistent member of the German 
Baptist church, and in accordance with the 
tenets of his faith he refrains from voting:. 



Horst, David, merchant, Hoernerstown, 
Pa., was born in South Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 21, 1850 ; son of 
Peter and Magdaline (Snyder) Horst. Michael 
Horst, the grandfather, was born in Lebanon 
county, Pa., in 1785, and died in 1821. He 
was proprietor of one of the early tanneries 
of the county. He married Barbara, daugh- 
ter of Peter Ebersole, of South Hanover town- 
ship. Their children were: Barbara, Mrs. 
George Cassel ; Catherine, Mrs. David Cassel; 
Sarah, Mrs. David Buck, and Peter, all 'of 
whom are deceased. The grandparents were 
members of the German Baptist church. 
Peter, the father, was born in South Hanover 
township, April 16, 1818, and died January 
16, 1882. His children were: Michael, of 
South Hanover township, and David. 

David learned the carpenter's trade, at 
which he worked as a journeyman for several 
years, and afterwards engaged in farming in 
East Hanover township, and in 1895 he es- 
tablished his present mercantile business at 
Hoernerstown, which he has conducted since 
that date. In his political views Mr. Horst 
is a Democrat, and has served as school di- 
rector for five years. He was married, in 
1872, to Miss Kate E. Fackler, of West Han- 
over township, by whom he has three chil- 
dren : Harry M., William P., and Katie M. 

The family are members of the German 
Baptist church. 



Hocker, George M., Union Deposit, Pa., 
was born in South Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 16, 1847 ; son of 
George and Barbara (Martin) Hocker. The 
father was born in Derry township, in 1806 ; 
son of Martin Hocker, a native of Germany, 
one of the early settlers of Derry township, 



and a hotel keeper at Hockerstown, which 
was named from him. The father, George 
Hocker, was a farmer and blacksmith. He 
removed to South Hanover township and be- 
came proprietor of the hotel at Union De- 
posit, where he also was engaged in the coal, 
lumber, grain, and distilling business, and 
was the owner of several boats on the Union 
canal. He was one of the founders and propri- 
etors of Union Deposit, at which point he 
erected a paper mill, which he conducted for 
some time. His death occurred in 1876. He 
was an active member of the Lutheran 
church, and in 1845 aided in building the 
church edifice. He had nine children : 
Maiy, deceased, Mrs. Eli Zimmerman, of 
South Hanover township ; Barbara, Mrs. Mar- 
tin Londes, of West Virginia ; Rebecca, Mrs. 
Henry Loy, of Philadelphia; Christina, Mrs. 
P. R. Killinger,of Union Deposit; Sarah, Mrs. 
John Stauffer, of Union Deposit; George M.; 
Rudolph, of Steelton ; Rev. Martin S., pastor of 
St. John's Lutheran church, Steelton. 

George M. received his education in the 
public schools and in the Millersville State 
Normal School. He was engaged in teach- 
ing school for eight years in South Hanover 
township, and for one year in Lower Paxton 
township. Subsequently he took a commer- 
cial course in the Business College at Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y., after which he was clerk for 
the Patriot Publishing Company, at Harris- 
burg, for a year and a half. In 1874 he be- 
came proprietor of the hotel at Union De- 
posit and continued to manage the house 
until 1885. Mr. Hocker was secretary of the 
Union Building and Loan Association for 
several years. In 1893 he organized the 
Union Deposit Creamery Association and 
has since been interested in the enterprise. 
He is also a stockholder in the Palmyra Bank, 
and is the owner of several farms. He is 
prominent in fraternity circles, holdingmem- 
bership in several secret orders. In his po- 
litical views Mr. Hocker is a Democrat. 



Hanshue, John P., farmer, Union Deposit, 
Pa., was born in Lower Paxton township, 
September 14, 1 830 ; son of David and Cathe- 
rine (Obercash) Hanshue. The first of the 
family to settle in Dauphin county was John 
Hanshue, born in 1775, who moved from 
Lebanon county about 1808 or 1810, located 
in Susquehanna township, and in 1820 set- 
tled on the farm in South Hanover town- 
ship on which his grandson, John P., now 
resides. He helped to haul the stone for the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



933 



abutments of the first bridge built across the 
Susquehanna river at Harrisburg, and also 
to build the first market house in that city. 
He married Susan Hetrick, of Lebanon 
county. His death occurred in 1837, that of 
his wife in 1848. He was a member of the 
Lutheran and she of the German Reformed 
church. They reared six children: John; 
David; Samuel; Susan, Mrs. John Haver- 
stick ; Elizabeth, Mrs. Henry Crorl ; Mary, 
Mrs. .George Ripley, all of whom are de- 
ceased. 

David, the father of John P., was born in 
Lebanon county, November 14, 1803. After 
his marriage he settled in Lower Paxton 
township, and removed from there to the 
present site of Steelton. In 1839 he was 
made administrator of his father's estate, 
and succeeded to the homestead, upon which 
he resided until his death in 1875. He was 
a member of the Lutheran church, and 
helped to build the house of worship at 
Union Deposit. He reared three children : 
Lavinia, deceased, married Jacob Crorl, of 
South Hanover township; John P., and 
David, of Lower Paxton township. 

John P. was married, in 1854, to Lucinda 
Zimmerman, daughter of Samuel Zimmer- 
man, of West Hanover township, and they 
have five children : Emma, Mrs. John L. 
Shoop, on the homestead, and they have 
one child, Ira D.; Amos H., of South Hano- 
ver township, married Susan, daughter of 
David Houck, and they have two children, 
Mary Edna and Clarence ; Catherine M., 
David S., and Elizabeth M. Mrs. Hanshue 
died February 17, 1882. In his politics Mr. 
Hanshue is a Republican, and has served as 
school director for eighteen years. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church at Union 
Deposit, in which he served as deacon eight 
years, and of which he is at present a trustee. 



Landis, C. E., farmer, Sand Beach, Pa., was 
born in South Hanover township, September 
25, 18<d2; son of C. F. and Martha (Brehm) 
Landis. Christian Landis, the grandfather, 
was born in Deny township, and was a farmer 
and storekeeper at Derry Church. His chil- 
dren were: Benjamin, of Paxton township; 
David, of Kansas; Christian F.; Susan,"de- 
ceased, Mrs. David Borsh, of Derry town- 
ship ; and Mary, deceased, Mrs. Benjamin 
Shue, of Cumberland county. Christian F., 
the father, was born in Derry township, in 
1833. His wife was born in 1838. He was 
engaged in mercantile business at Annville, 



Pa., and afterwards removed to the farm now 
occupied by his son C. E., where he died in 
1878. His wife survives him and lives in 
Derry township. They belonged to the Ger- 
man Baptist church. Their children are : 
John M., deceased; Mary, Mrs. John H.Ungst, 
of Derry township ; C. E.; Sadie, Mrs. Amos 
Jones, of Monroe county ; Harvey D., of 
Derry township ; and Lillie, wife of William 
Seibert, of Derry township. 

C. E. learned the butcher's trade, which he 
has followed in connection with farming. 
He was married, May 13, 1882, to Miss Emma 
H. Gerber, daughter of Samuel and Sarah 
Gerber, of South Hanover township. Their 
children are: Lizzie G., Annie M., Emma G., 
Martha G., and Sarah E. They are members 
of the German Baptist church. 



Maulfair, Dr. Harvey E., Union De- 
posit, Pa., was born in East Hanover town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., July 17, 1864 ; 
son of John and Elizabeth (Peiffer) Maul- 
fair. His father was born in Lebanon 
county,' Pa., December 24, 1836, and is of 
German ancestor. By occupation he was a 
farmer and distiller, and also kept a hotel 
at Auburn, Schuylkill county, Pa., from 
1867 to 1872, after which he was for four 
years engaged in the milling business at 
Derry Church. In 1889 he was made a 
steward of Annville College, which position 
he now holds. His church membership is 
with the United Brethren. His children 
are Lillian Agnes and Dr. Harvey E., who 
were educated in the public schools and in 
the Lebanon Valley College; he read medi- 
cine with Dr. M. L. Hershey, of Derry town- 
ship, and was graduated from the Jefferson 
Medical College at Philadelphia in 1890; prac- 
ticed medicine for three years at Hummels- 
town, and has since been located at Union 
Deposit. Dr. Maulfair was married, in 1889, 
to Miss Ida K. Landis, daughter of Jacob 
and Catherine Landis, of South Hanover 
township. They had one child, Catherine 
E. The Doctor is a member and a trustee 
of the United Brethren church. 



McCord, Joseph, farmer, Union Deposit, 
Pa., was born in West Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., December 28, 1855; 
son of Joseph Shannon and Elizabeth 
(Mackin) McCord. The first of the family to 
settle in Dauphin county was William Mc- 
Cord, a native of Scotland, who entered six 
hundred acres of land in what are now West 



934 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and South Hanover townships. He was a 
member of the Derry Presbyterian church. 
His son, William McCord, was born in West 
Hanover township ; was a soldier in the Revo- 
lutionary war, and like his father was a mem- 
ber of the Derry Presbyterian church. He 
married Miss Wolf, and they reared seven 
children: Margaret, deceased, Mrs. Bom- 
gardner, West Hanover township ; Joseph 
Shannon, deceased ; Mary, Mrs. Joseph 
Hoerner, of Hoernerstown ; William, de- 
ceased, South Hanover township ; Catherine, 
Mrs. Jacob Seibert, of West Hanover town- 
ship; Annie, Mrs. Joseph Walmer, of Har- 
risburg; Sarah, Mrs. George McMonaby, 
Derry township. 

Joseph Shannon, the father, was born in 
South Hanover township in 1815, and died 
March 16, 1895. His wife also is deceased, 
and both were members of the Derry church. 
They had six children : James, West Han- 
over ; Joseph ; Mary, Mrs. Edward Abling, 
of Lebanon, Pa.; Maria, Mrs. John Yotty, 
East Hanover township; Franklin, of East 
Hanover township; Clara, Mrs. Theodore 
Krebs, of South Hanover township. 

Joseph was married, in 1875, to Elizabeth 
Yetter, daughter of John Yetter, of Swatara 
township, and they have, two children, John, 
born in 1877, and Joseph, born in 1886. In 
his politics Mr. McCord is a Republican, and 
has served as school director for three years. 
He is a member of the United Brethren 
church. 



Rapp, W. H., merchant, Union Deposit, 
Pa., was born in Bucks county, Pa., April 5, 
1858; son of Charles Augustus and Eva 
(Mease) Rapp. He received his education in 
the public schools and engaged in the cream- 
ery business at Pleasant Valley, in which he 
continued for eight j^ears. In 1883 he re- 
moved to Union Deposit and opened a gen- 
eral store, which he has since conducted. He 
is a member of State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. 
0. 0. F., the Patriotic Order Sons of America 
and of the Junior Order of American Me- 
chanics. In m his political views he is in 
agreement with the Republican party. Mr. 
Rapp was married, in 1875, to Miss Ella J. 
Yost, daughter of John Yost, of Northamp- 
ton county, Pa. His church membership is 
with the Reformed church of Springfield, 
Bucks county, Pa. 



Snavely, Joseph K., farmer, Sand Beach, 
Pa., was born in Derry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., September 7, 1847 ; son of Will- 
iam and Nancy (Keller) Suavely. Joseph 
Snavely, the grandfather of Joseph H., came 
to Dauphin county about 1828, and was en- 
gaged in farming in Derry township. He 
was a member of the United Brethren church 
and reared nine children, six of whom are 
living: George, of Derry township ; Henry, 
of Middletown; Leah, Mrs. Joseph Hershey, 
of Hummelstown ; Fannie, of Derry town- 
ship ; Eliza, Mrs. William Eckenrode, of 
Hummelstown ; Catherine, Mrs. John Wag- 
ner, of South Hanover. William, the father 
of Joseph K., located in Derry township after 
his marriage and engaged 'in farming and 
huckstering, and was a stockholder in the 
Farmers' Bank. In politics he was a Re- 
publican and served as tax collector. He 
was a member of the United Brethren 
church, in which he filled the office of stew- 
ard. His death occurred in August, 1894 ; 
his wife having died in 1872. Of their nine 
children six are living : John, at Union De- 
posit; Jacob, at Elizabeth town ; Susan, Mrs. 
Uriah Seltzer, of South Hanover township ; 
Fannie, Mrs. John Hummel, Derry town- 
ship ; Mary, Mrs. Edward Weaver, Hum- 
melstown, and Joseph K. 

Joseph was educated in the public schools 
and has always been engaged in agricultural 
pursuits. In 1870 he was married to Miss 
Mary Wagner, daughter of Conrad Wagner, 
of South Hanover township. They have five 
children : Albert; Harry, married Ida Rasp, 
and they have one child, Naomi ; Conrad, 
Annie, and Sadie. Mr. Snavely is a Repub- 
lican in his political views and has served as 
school director in South Hanover township 
for six years. He is a member of the United 
Brethren church. 



Schaffner, Daniel, retired farmer, Hum- 
melstown, Pa., was born in Lykens town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., August ft, 1827 ; 
son of Christian and Christina (Hoffman) 
Schaffner. The first of the family to settle 
in Dauphin county were the grandparents, 
Martin and Fannie (Halderman) Schaffner, 
natives of Lancaster county, who located 
first in Swatara township and from there 
moved to Upper Paxton township. They 
were members of the German Reformed 
church. Their children are: Jacob; Mar- 
tin ; Frederick ; John ; Christian ; Fannie, 




f>, .A.7BOYD HAMILTON. 




Mz^iu^ 





H*^? . jht. 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



937 



Mrs. Linderraan ; Nancy, Mrs. Fleisher ; 
and several who died in infancy. Christian, 
the father of Daniel, was born in Upper 
Paxton township, and is buried at Hoff- 
man's church. He was a farmer by occupa- 
tion, and was a member of the German Re- 
formed church. His children are : Martin ; 
Amanda, Mrs. Peter Sellers ; Obed ; David, 
deceased ; Daniel ; Eli, of Savannah, 111.; 
Fannie, Mrs. William Swab, of Philadelphia; 
Sarah J., Mrs. William Sbartzer, of Elizabeth- 
ville. 

Daniel was reared in Lykens Valley and 
educated in select schools. He learned the 
carpenter trade and subsequently taught 
school twenty terms. In 1870 he opened a 
general store at Hoernerstown, which he 
conducted until 1895, when he retired from 
business. He was married, in 1852, to Miss 
Salome Hoover, of South Hanover township. 
His children are : Franklin J., of Hummels- 
town ; Henry C; Daniel W., M. D., of Steel- 
ton ; Caroline S.; and Rev. Alfred Schaffner, 
pastor in the German Reformed church, a 
graduate of the Franklin and Marshall Col- 
lege and the Lancaster Seminary. In his 
political principles and policy Mr. Schaffner 
is a Democrat, and served six terms as jus- 
tice of the peace in South Hanover town- 
ship. He is a member of the Reformed 
church, of Hummelstown, in which he has 
filled theoffice of deacon, and for twenty years 
the office of elder, and has also served as the 
superintendent of the Sunday-school at Ber- 
rysburg and Hoernerstown. He enlisted in 
the Thirty-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania 
militia, and did provost duty at Gettysburg. 
He re-enlisted in company I, Eighty-seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and par- 
ticipated in the battle of Petersburg, and 
was at the surrender at Appomattox Court 
House, after which he was honorably dis- 
charged. 



Stauffer, David H, Union Deposit, Pa., 
was born in South Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 31, 1843 ; son of 
Isaac and Nancy (Kettering) Stauffer, na- 
tives of Lebanon county, and subsequently 
residents of South Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county. The father was a miller by 
trade, and was proprietor of the Spring Creek 
Mills for ten years, after which he conducted 
the mills at Union Deposit for several years. 
He is deceased and his wife survives him. 
Their children are : David H. and John, who 
learned the trade of miller from his father, 
59 



and assisted him in his business. Subse- 
quently he was proprietor of the State Capi- 
tal Mills at Harrisburg for two years, and in 
1878 purchased the Union Deposit Mills, 
which he operated until his death, October 
12, 1896. He was one of the organizers of 
the Farmers' Bank at Hummelstown. He 
married Sarah, daughter of George Hocker, 
and they had eight children : Frank H., 
Clarence, George M., Charles E., Edith, Elva, 
Violet, and Earl. The remaining children 
of Isaac are : Levi L., deceased ; Isaac K., of 
Cedar Rapids, Iowa ; Mary, Mrs. R. Clay, of 
Union Deposit. Mr. Stauffer is a member 
of the United Brethren church. 



Wagner, George, retired, Union Deposit, 
Pa., March 16, 1815; son of Conrad and 
Catherine (Fauver) Wagner, natives of Leb- 
anon county, removed to Dauphin county in 
1829 and settled in South Hanover town- 
ship. The father was a blacksmith and far- 
mer and was an active member of the Lu- 
theran church, to the erection of the church 
edifice of which he was a liberal contributor. 
He died in South Hanover township at the 
age of ninety-one years. His children are: 
John, Daniel, Samuel, Henry, Thomas, Isaac, 
deceased, Conrad, and George, who died in 
1845. He was engaged in the manufacture 
of brick until 1873, when he retired from ac- 
tive business and moved into Union Deposit. 
He was a Republican in politics, and served 
twenty-two years as supervisor of the town- 
ship. He was married, October 28, 1841, to 
Catherine Yingst, daughter of John Yingst, 
of Derry township, whose death occurred in 
August, 1894. Their children are: John, 
enlisted in 1861 in company D, Ninety-third 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and died 
in the hospital, September 26, 1862 ; Henry, 
of South Hanover township ; Ellis G., of 
Barber county, Kan.; Mary, Mrs. John 
Gruber, died leaving four children : Cath- 
erine, Mrs. Frank Schaeffer, of Union De- 
posit ; Lincoln, of Philadelphia ; Fannie, of 
Harrisburg; and Ulysses, of Lebanon county. 
Mr. Wagner is a member of the Lutheran 
church and has served as elder in the same. 



Wagner, Henry, brick and tile manufac- 
turer, Union Deposit, Pa., was born in Cum- 
berland county, Pa., December 11, 1848; 
son of George Wagner, of Union Deposit. 
He received his education in the public 
schools and in the Meyerstown Academy. 
He learned the trade of brick making from 



938 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENGYVL OPEDIA 



his father and in 1872 he succeeded to his 
father's business. In the same year he was 
married to Miss Mary Hocker, daughter of 
Jacob Hocker, of Derry township. Their 
children are : Clayton L., George Franklin, 
Annie Irene, Sadie May, Henry Edgar, Katie 
Madora, Allen Hocker, and Jacob Arthur. 
In his political views Mr. Wagner is a Re- 
publican, and in his religious faith and 
membership is a Lutheran, in which church 
he holds the office of deacon and trustee. 



business at Rockville, and enjoys a good 
reputation as a merchant. He is also highly 
respected as a citizen. 



Yingst, Samuel H., farmer and stock 
dealer, Sand Beach P. 0., was born in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 6, 1858; son of Rev. Peter and Lydia 
(Wenger) Yingst, of Derry township. He 
was married, in 1876, to Miss Kate Wagner, 
daughter of Thomas Wagner, of South Han- 
over township. Their children are : Harvey, 
Thomas, Peter, Lydia, Eva May, Victor M., 
Katie, Samuel, and Ellen Violet. In 1872 
Mr. Yingst engaged in shipping cattle from 
the West to the home markets, and has since 
continued in that business. In his politics 
he is a Republican. 



SUSQUEHANNA TOWNSHIP. 



Shaffer, George W., merchant, Rock- 
ville, Pa., was born in Susquehanna town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., January 17, 1837. 
He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Platz) 
Shaffer. The Shaffer family are of German 
ancestry. They came to this country at a 
very early date, and settled at Manheim, Pa. 
John Shaffer, the father of George W., re- 
sided in Susquehanna township during the 
greater part of his life. He died October 12, 
1884; his wife in 1873. They had seven 
children, six of whom are living : George W.; 
John, of Harrisburg; William, of Harrisburg; 
Augustus, of Fort Hunter; Mary, wife of 
George Walker, of Pottsville, Pa. 

George W. Shaffer received a limited edu- 
cation in the common schools. He worked 
at various occupations until the spring of 
1865, when he enlisted in the One Hundred 
and Ninety-second regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, and served until the close of the 
war. When discharged from the army he 
returned home and engaged in mercantile 
business, which has been his occupation since 
the latter part of 1865. 

Mr. Shaffer's political opinions are Repub- 
lican. He has been long established in his 



Brown, George Lancaster, A. M., M. D., 
was born in Middle Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., September 17, 1866. He is a 
son of James L. and Mary (Baker) Brown. The 
father was* born in Florida, was of English 
ancestry, and settled in Middle Paxton town- 
ship about 1865, where he followed his trade 
of carpenter and bridge builder, until near 
the time of his death, April 14, 1873. The 
mother was born in Middle Paxton township, 
where she still resides, deservedly honored and 
loved. They had four children, three sons 
and one daughter ; three are living, George 
L., William A., James 0.; Lavinia, wife of 
Peter Fisher, of Hummelstown, died Decem- 
ber 29, 1892. 

The Doctor attended the public schools of 
his native township, and subsequently the 
State Normal School of Shippensburg, Pa. 
He was graduated from this institution with 
the class of 1890. For the ensuing two years 
he taught school in Dauphin county. In 
1894 he completed the regular course of stud- 
ies in the Baltimore Medical College, and re- 
ceived the degree of M. D. Remaining at 
the college, he took a post-graduate course, 
which he completed in 1895. From a liter- 
ary college he received in June, 1896, the 
degree of Master of Arts. 

In June, 1895, Dr. Brown opened an office 
for the practice of his profession at Rockville, 
Susquehanna township. He has built up a 
large and lucrative practice. He has dis- 
played more than ordinary professional 
ability, and an accurate and intimate knowl- 
edge of all branches of the art of healing. 
He is recognized as a physician of great 
promise, deserving of confidence and success. 

Dr. Brown is a member of Paxton Lodge, 
No. 621, I. 0. 0. F., of Dauphin, Pa. His 
politics are Republican. He attends the 
Methodist Episcopal church. 



Reily, John W., proprietor of the Luck- 
now Forge, was born in Harrisburg, Pa., 
September 26, 1860. He is a son of the late 
John W. and Katherine E. (Dull) Reily, a 
sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this 
volume. He was educated in the Harris- 
burg Academy and afterwards attended the 
McClellan Institute, Westchester, Pa., and 
the Peabody Scientific School, Andover, 
Mass., from which he was graduated in 1879. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



939 



After completing this thorough educational 
course, Mr. Reily was for one year assistant 
manager of the furnace in the Montgomery 
Iron Company's mill at Port Kennedy, Pa., 
after which he returned to Harrisburg. For 
the following year he was assistant manager 
of the Union Forge, after which he became 
the manager of this important industry. 

In 1883 he erected the buildings, provided 
the equipment and established his extensive 
business at Lucknow Station. In addition 
to the management of this large industrial 
plant, Mr. Reily gives personal attention 
to large agricultural operations. He super- 
vises the cultivation of a tract of land con- 
taining six hundred and fifty acres, which 
gives him rank among the prominent prac- 
tical farmers of the count}'. He is a man of 
varied abilities and seems equally at home 
in the management of all kinds of business. 
A gratifying success attends all his ventures, 
and prosperity is the outcome of his en- 
terprise. He is popular, by reason of his 
generous treatment of his employees, and his 
liberal public spirit. 

John W. Reily was married, in Harrisburg, 
November 3, 1866, to Miss Helen, daughter 
of the late Daniel and Margaret Boas. Mr. 
Reily is president of the Fort Hunter Road 
Commission. His political views are those 
of a good, solid Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian church. 



Kelley, Patrick, was married in 1832 ; 
his wife was born in Ireland and came to 
America in 1832. She settled first in New 
York ; afterwards she removed to Harris- 
burg, and finally to Rockville, and has been 
a resident of Dauphin county up to this 
time. They had four children : John Frank- 
lin, William Edward, Mary Elizabeth, and 
Caroline, who died at six years of age. The 
eldest son, John Franklin, was among the 
first volunteers from Rockville in the army 
for the defense of the Union at the breaking 
out of the late Rebellion. He served three 
years in the United States army and navy. 
The second son, William Edward, volun- 
teered and served in the Two Hundred and 
First regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
under Colonel Awl, of Harrisburg. After- 
wards he enlisted in the United States navy 
at Philadelphia, Pa., March 7, 1864, and 
served seventeen months on the warship 
" R. R. Cuyler." He was wounded while in 
line of battle by the premature discharge of 
a cannon. He was discharged from the 



naval hospital at Portsmouth, Va., July 3, 
1865. In 1887, during President Cleveland's 
first administration, Mrs. Kelley was ap- 
pointed postmistress of Fort Hunter and has 
held the office continuously since that time. 
Mrs. Kelley was brought up in the Catholic 
faith, to which she still adheres. 



Free, John W., was born in Emigsville, 
York county, Pa., November 9, 1832. He is 
a son of Peter and Mary (Dick) Free. His 
father resided in Dauphin county for twelve 
years, and then removed to Perry county, 
Pa., where he died in 1853. Mr. and Mrs. 
Free had seven children, four of whom are 
living: Catherine, wife of Solomon Shatto ; 
John W.; Thomas J., of Perry county, and 
Hiram A., of Zanesville, Ohio. 

When John W. Free was six years old his 
parents removed to the town of Dauphin, 
Pa., where he was educated in the district 
and subscription schools. His school educa- 
tion completed, he engaged in steamboating 
on the Chesapeake bay and canal. In 1860 
he engaged in mercantile business at Rock- 
ville. 

He was married, at Harrisburg, January 
3,1854, to Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and 
Wilhelmina (Krehl) Livingston, long and 
highly honored residents of Susquehanna 
township. They have no children. 

Mr. Free has creditably filled the offices of 
school director and tax collector. He be- 
longs to Dauphin County Lodge, No. 621, 
I. 0. 0. F. His political views are Repub- 
lican. He attends the Methodist church. 
He was among the first who left Rockville 
and enlisted in the army in defense of the 
Union. He served nine months in the 
Pennsylvania volunteers. 



Felty, Philip D., was born in Susque- 
hanna township, Dauphin county, Pa., June 
11, 1837. He was educated in the district 
and private schools, and spent his boyhood 
on the farm. He also attended school under 
Profs. Davis, Oak, and Weatherford, at Lin- 
glestovvn Academy. At the age of fourteen 
he learned tanning, serving at apprentice- 
ship with Christian Hoover. This trade ac- 
quired, he farmed for two years, and was 
afterwards engaged in tanning at Lingles- 
town, until the spring of 1859. He then 
removed to Hanover, bought the old Stover 
tannery, and continued in business there 
until 1861. He was drafted and served in 
the army nine months, in the One Hundred 



940 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, under Col. George B. Wiestling. He 
was appointed second lieutenant and one 
month later first lieutenant. He was dis- 
charged from the army on August 5, 1863. 

He sold his interest in the tannery and 
worked as a journeyman. Later he was em- 
ployed by the Philadelphia and Reading 
Railroad Company for one year as baggage- 
master. He was next in mercantile busi- 
ness at Rockville, and was afterwards again 
employed by the railroad company for six 
years. In 1871 he built a tannery at Rock- 
ville and continued in business for three 
years. He went West to seek a location for 
business, but returned to Rockville and then 
moved to Harrisburg. In 1889 he returned 
to the old homestead, where he has ever 
since resided. 

He was married, September 5, 1862, to 
Harriet U., daughter of J. M. and Mary 
Shope. They have three children : Charles 
Irvin ; Clara F., wife of J. W. Miller, and 
John G. Charles died in infancy. Mr. 
Felty is a stauncli Republican. His family 
are members of the Bethel Methodist Epis- 
copal church. 



Turns, William, was born near Middle- 
town, Dauphin county, Pa., May 30, 1832. 
His father, John Turns, was born in 1807 ; 
he married a daughter of Owen and Katie 
(Rice) White. They had eleven children : 
William ; John ; Owen ; George ; Henry ; 
Matthew ; Elizabeth, Mrs. Hallman ; Martin ; 
Mary Ann, Mrs. Hoffman ; Ephraim, and 
Rebecca, Mrs. Daniel Runkel. John Turns 
died in 1886, but his wife is still living. 

William Turns was largely interested in 
the manufacture of lumber in Dauphin 
county. He was a representative citizen, and 
was held in high esteem. He died October 
6, 1882. His wife, to whom he was married 
August 18, 1863, was Miss Mary S., daughter 
of George and Elizabeth (Dewey) Straw. Her 
parents belonged to an old and respected 
family of Dauphin county. They had ten 
children, of whom Mrs. Turns was the eldest. 
Mr. Straw died October 3, 1881, and Mrs. 
Straw October 9, 1889. Two of their sons 
and a daughter died in infancy ; their daugh- 
ter Susan, wife of William Swoyer, died in 
1893. 

Mrs. Turns was born in Middle Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., May 28, 
1826. She received her education in the 
public schools of her native township. After 



her marriage to Mr. Turns she removed to 
Susquehanna township, where she now re- 
sides. Mr. and Mrs. Turns had three chil- 
dren : Lewis, Edward, and William. Lewis 
Turns, with his brother Edward, works in 
the Harrisburg Car Shops. Mrs. Turns at- 
tends the German Reformed church. 



Rawn, Charles G, was born at George- 
town, D. C, July 30, 1802. His parents re- 
moving to Westchester, Pa., he received his 
elementary education there. He afterwards 
passed through college, took up the study of 
law, and was admitted to the bar in Harris- 
burg. From that time until his death he 
was occupied with the practice of his pro- 
fession. He filled a high position in the 
army board during the war, and at its close 
resumed his practice in Harrisburg. He 
was married May 25, 1833. His wife was 
born February 16, 1815, and educated at 
Harrisburg. She is still living, and resides 
in Harrisburg. They had seven children, 
four of whom are deceased : Elizabeth, died 
March 19, 1838, aged three years ; Charles 
C, born December 16, 1837, died October 6, 
1887 ; James C, born in 1840, died April 
12, 1-842 ; Mary Scott Glendin, born April 
10, 1842, died in March, 1852. The father 
died December 18, 1865. 

Charles C. Rawn, son of Charles G, en- 
listed in the army with the Lochiel Grays 
under Col. Henry McCormick. He was ap- 
pointed second lieutenant, and later was 
promoted to the rank of major. After re- 
turning from the army he was married, and 
resided in Connecticut. At present he is the 
manager of the Roanoke Gas and Water 
Company, of Roanoke, Va. 

Frances Glendin Rawn, daughter of 
Charles C, was born in Harrisburg, April 
18, 1849. She received her primary educa- 
tion in private schools and attended Ivy 
Hall Seminary, Brighton, N. J. She was 
married, at Harrisburg, October 22, 1872, to 
William J. Torrington. They had three 
children : Ethel, born at Harrisburg; Will- 
iam James, at Mt. Washington, Md., June 
30, 1879 ; and Francis Rawn, at Mt. Wash- 
ington, Md., September 17, 1881. Mr. Tor- 
rington is deceased. The religious creed of 
the family is Presbyterian. 



Bitting, John, was born in Berks county, 
near Reading. He married Barbara Flick- 
inger, of Lancaster county. They had seven 
children. He died at the age of seventy 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



941 



years; his wife died twelve years before him. 
Catherine Bitting, daughter of John and 
Barbara Bitting, was born near the Black 
Horse Tavern, Lancaster county, Pa., June 
9, 1821. She received her education in the 
private schools of Lancaster county. She 
was married, at the age of thirty-nine years, 
at'Dauphin, Pa., to John Dawson. They had 
two children : Thomas and Catherine. The 
latter died in infancy. Thomas B., only son 
of the late John Dawson and his wife Cath- 
erine Dawson, was educated in the public 
schools of Rockville, Pa. At the age of thir- 
teen he learned telegraphy and has been 
employed in that occupation up to the pres- 
ent time. At the age of eighteen he was 
married to Susie E., daughter of George and 

Ellen . They have eight children : 

Daisy M., John 0., Mabel E., Jennie E., Ger- 
trude M., Harvey R., T. Ivan, and Goldie 
Pearl. The family are not members of any 
church. 



Leonard, Joseph L., was born at Coch- 
ranville, Chester county, Pa., April 17, 1846. 
He is a son of Lot Evans and Jennie E. 
(Best) Leonard. His father was of Scotch 
and his mother of Irish descent. His father's 
family were members of the Society of 
Friends, while his mother's family were Meth- 
odists. Their children are : Joseph L.; Mary 
L., wife of William Updegrove, who had two 
children; Martha E., wife of John Marzolf, 
has four children living and two deceased ; 
Mary L. and Martha E. are both deceased. 

Joseph L. Leonard received a public school 
education, completing his course in 1863 in 
the schools of Harrisburg. He enlisted in 
the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania volunteers, un- 
der Col. Richard White, and was assigned to 
company G. He remained in active service 
until the close of the war. He won distinc- 
tion and honor in many of the prominent 
battles. He was mustered out of the service 
at Petersburg, Va., August 30, 1865. From 
this time on he was engaged in various occu- 
pations. For two years he had charge of the 
male department of the Soldiers' Orphans' 
Schools at McAllisterville and White Hall, 
Pa. After severing his connection with the 
latter school, he was employed by the Har- 
risburg Car Manufacturing Company ; later 
he was in the Pennsylvania Steel Works in 
the capacity of machinist. After this he em- 
barked in the business of hotel keeping. He 
conducted the Bridgeport Hotel, at Bridge- 
port, Cumberland county, Pa., and other 



hotels well known in the State ; also the Ar- 
cade Hotel, 1023 Seventh street, Harrisburg, 
Pa., and the Susquehanna. Hotel, Dauphin 
county, Pa. 

He was married, August 12, 1869, to Miss 
Carrie L., daughter of Nathaniel and Lida 
(Rauch) Lichtenwalner, by whom he had 
two children, who both died in infancy. 
Mr. Leonard is a member of the organization 
of the survivors of the Fifty-fifth Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, and is president of that or- 
ganization at the present time. 

The parents of Mrs. Leonard had ten chil- 
dren, three of whom died in infancy. Their 
living children are : Camilla, wife of Samuel 
T. Train ; Albert L.; Mary Catherine, wife of 
Frank Deal ; Carrie L., wife of J. E. Leon- 
ard ; Lydia A., wife of William Hoehrine ; 
Josephine, and Nathan. 



Olewine, George W., foreman of the Luck- 
now Forge, was born at Harrisburg, Pa., 
February 21, 1839. He is a son of Benjamin 
and Mary (Fremoil) Olewine, both deceased. 
His father was a tailor, and conducted a suc- 
cessful business in Harrisburg. He had four 
children, three of whom are deceased. He 
was a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 

George W. Olewine attended school in 
Harrisburg until he was ten years of age, 
when he removed with his parents to Sus- 
quehanna township, and there finished his 
studies. After leaving school he was em- 
ployed in farming until 1872, when he en- 
gaged with the Harrisburg Car Company as 
a wood worker. He afterwards entered the 
employment of John W. Reily, proprietor of 
the Lucknow Forge, in the capacity of fore- 
man, and has held that position to the pres- 
ent time. 

He was married, August 8, 1865, to Jane, 
daughter of John and Mary (Shoop) Funk. 
They have eleven children : Mary, Mrs. 
Daniel Hartz ; America, Mrs. Milton Dis- 
singer; Benjamin, married Clara Beaver; 
Amie, Mrs. John Mummert; Jennie, Mrs. 
George Beaver ; Katie; Maggie and Annie, 
twins; George A. and Blanche, twins, and 
Francis. Blanche died at the age of five. 
Mr. 01 wine is a well-known citizen and es- 
teemed by the many employed under his 
supervision. 



Wimer, L. Edmund, master carpenter, 
Middle division, Pennsylvania railroad, was 
born in Juniata county, Pa., March 12, 1835. 



942 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



He is a son of Zachariah and Mary (Brach- 
bill) Wimer. His father died July 16, 1835, 
and his mother died April 11, 1881, aged 
seventy-one. 

L. Edmund Wimer was educated in the 
public schools of Juniata county. He left 
home at the age of fifteen and was employed 
in farming. At the age of eighteen he be- 
gan to learn his trade with Reuben Yarger. 
and later finished his apprenticeship with 
his uncle Christopher. Having thus ac- 
quired skill in carpentry he began business 
for himself in his native county. In 1860 
he was employed by the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company for one year. Then, return- 
ing to his native county, he was in business 
for himself until 1863. Next, for about a 
year, he was employed by the Keystone 
Bridge Company, of Pittsburgh. August 30, 

1864, he returned to the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company in the ca- 
pacity of foreman, at Bellefonte, Pa., and re- 
mained there until 1865. In that year he en- 
listed in the Sixteenth Pennsylvania cavalry, 
company F, and served until August 11 of the 
same year. He was then mustered out of ser- 
vice at Manchester, Va., and returned to his 
native county. Once more, on September 1, 

1865, he entered the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company as foreman 
carpenter, and retained that position until 
November 1, 1871, when he was promoted to 
master carpenter on the Middle division, a 
post in which he still continues to serve the 
company. 

He was married, November 29, 1859, to 
Catherine, daughter of Capt. Nathan and 
Mary (Foose) Thomas. They have had 
three children, one of whom died at the age 
of eighteen months. Their living children 
are : John L., and Lizzie, wife of James H. 
Gingrich, of Harrisburg. The family are 
members of the Lutheran church. 

A life of useful industry and a successful 
business career have enabled Mr. Wimer to 
enjoy a home at Lucknow, a romantic and 
beautiful suburb of Harrisburg. . 



Grove, John, farmer, was born at Coxes- 
town, Pa., October 14, 1834. He is a son of 
Jacob and Catherine (Hoak) Grove. John 
Grove received his education in the common 
schools. At the age of fourteen he began to 
learn the wheelwright's trade. When his 
apprenticeship was over he engaged in busi- 
ness for himself. In 1856 he removed to 
Harrisburg and was for four years in the 



employ of the Harrisburg Car Manufactur- 
ing Company. He was next engaged in 
farming, until the spring of 1865, when he 
returned to Harrisburg, and was for five 
years employed by the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company, then for two years by the 
Harrisburg Manufacturing Company. The 
confinement of indoor work being found 
detrimental to his health the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company changed his position to 
that of car inspector. This place he held 
for five years, and then resumed inside work. 
He was thus employed until 1878, when he 
went back to farming and has made that his 
occupation up to the present time. 

He was married, September 26, 1856, to 
Mary A., daughter of Henry and Annie 
Lebo. They have had three children, one 
of whom died aged four years. Their living 
children are: Ida Jane, wife of Samuel 
Meckley, and William E. Mr. Grove is a 
staunch Republican. 



Houser, George W., market gardener, 
was born in Susquehanna township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 26, 1849. He is a 
son of Michael and Elizabeth (Lantz) Houser. 
His father died August 12, 1885, aged sev- 
enty-two years and six months ; his mother 
died October 5, 1895, aged eighty-four years 
and six months. They had six children, 
two of whom died in infancy. The four sur- 
viving are : Louisa, wife of William Coffer ; 
Matilda, wife of Ambrose Kennedy ; Mary 
E., and George W. 

George W. Houser received his education 
in the public schools. After leaving school 
heengaged in gardening and farming, which 
he has carried on up to the present time. 
Mr. Houser is a staunch Democrat. He has 
served one term as school director in his 
native township. 

He was married, November 21, 1872, to 
Anna Tressa, daughter of George and Agnes 
(Hervey) Piper. The}' have seven children, 
two of whom died in infancy. Their living 
children are : Michael E., George W., Jr., 
Rebecca J., Mary E., and Carrie A. Mr. 
Houser and his family are members of the 
United Brethren church. 



Fox, Milton, farmer, was born in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa,, De- 
cember 16, 1857. He is a son of John and 
Mary (Hyde) Fox, natives of Dauphin county. 
His father died November 20, 1884. They 
had eight children, two of whom are de- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



943 



Geased. Jerome died aged three, and Chris- 
tian at the age of twenty-six years. Their 
remaining children are : Annie E., wife of 
David Smith; George; John H.; Mary M., 
wife of Harry K. Brubaker ; Isaac, and Mil- 
ton. 

Milton Fox received his education in the 
common schools. At the age of sixteen he 
left school and began farming. He has 
made this his occupation ever since. 
- He was married, June 26, 1879, to Mary 
C, daughter of Henry and Mary (Shutt) 
Strohm. Their union was blessed with four 
children : Emma R., Laura P., William E., 
and Mabel M., the last named died Novem- 
ber 5, 1895. 

Mr. Fox is a staunch Republican. He has 
served in his native township for two terms 
as supervisor. He is one of the enterprising 
and successful farmers of Susquehanna town- 
ship. 



Stouffer, Jacob W., farmer and dairy- 
man, was born in Dauphin county, Pa., 
April 26, 1851. He is a son of Jacob and 
Rebecca (Waltz) Stouffer. His parents had 
a family of eight children, three of whom are 
deceased ; two died in infancy. The parents 
are still living, and are prominent and re- 
spected residents of Dauphin county. 

Jacob W. Stouffer received his education 
in the public schools. At the age of thirteen 
he became a farmer, and that has been his 
occupation to the present time. He was mar- 
ried, at the age of twenty, to Emma, daugh- 
ter of Jacob J. and Elizabeth (Sayring) Sny- 
der. They have four children: Lizzie M., 
Katie, Marion, and Ruth. Mr. Stouffer is a 
staunch Republican. 



1878, to Ida, daughter of Michael and Cathe- 
rine (Walborn) Dowmoyer, by whom he has 
five children : Harry G., Allen E., Sadie G, 
Helen N., and William J. The parents of 
the second Mrs. Miller are residents of Leba- 
non county. They had eight children, two 
of whom are deceased; the remaining chil- 
dren also reside in Lebanon county. In his 
political views Mr. Miller is a staunch Re- 
publican. 



Miller, William H, was born in Leba- 
non county, Pa., August 8, 1850. He is a 
son of Franklin A. and Levina (Ciegler) Mil- 
ler. He attended first the public schools of 
Lebanon county and afterwards the college 
at Meyerstown, Pa. His education finished, 
he learned the trade of a miller, in his native 
county, and followed this vocation for some 
time. He afterwards became a skillful, prac- 
tical iron-worker, which is his present occu- 
pation. He is employed at the Luck now 
Forge, Susquehanna township. 

He was married, in 1869, to Melinda New- 
man, daughter of Adam and Kate (Pallen) 
Newman. They have three children : Charles, 
John, and Minerva. His wife died in April, 
1875. He was again married, November 21, 



Hiester, Gabriel, was born at Estherton, 
Pa., April 28, 1850. He attended school in 
Harrisburg until 1866, when he entered the 
sophomore class of the Agricultural College 
of Pennsylvania. He was graduated from 
that institution in 1868. Returning to Har- 
risburg, he engaged in market gardening and 
fruit growing ; he still carries on the latter 
branch of the business. He has become one 
of the best and most favorably known fruit 
growers in the State. The positions of trust 
and prominence to which he has been called, 
in connection with State agricultural inter- 
ests, are the public and popular as well as 
the official recognition of his practical suc- 
cess and his eminent scientific abilities. 

He has served as a trustee of Pennsylvania 
State Agricultural College 'since 1879. He 
has been a member of the State Board of 
Agriculture since 1881, and vice-president of 
the State Agricultural Society since 1885. The 
Governor appointed him commissioner to rep- 
resent the State at the Agricultural Congress 
which met in California in 1886 ; and by the 
same authority he was appointed to perform 
the same duty at the Agricultural College 
which met in West Virginia in 1894. 

Mr. Hiester was married, in 1871, to Miss 
Annie E. Maurer. 



Simon, Dr. Samuel H., was born at Har- 
risburg, Pa., July 5, 1840. He is a son of 
John B. and Mary (Hertz) Simon. They had 
twelve children, seven of whom died in in- 
fancy. The Doctor's education was begun 
in the Southern District public school of 
Harrisburg ; he afterwards attended private 
schools. He undertook the study of medi- 
cine in 1861, but turned aside from it in 
1862 to engage in business with his father, 
a carpenter and builder, with whom he had 
served a full term as an apprentice to the 
trade. He enlisted during the war in com- 
pany K, First Pennsylvania volunteers, 
served his time and was honorably dis- 
charged. He has been identified with numer- 



944 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



ous enterprises of Harrisburg, and has been 
indefatigable in his efforts to advance the 
interests of his native city and county. In 
1866 Dr. Simon engaged in brickmaking, 
and conducted one of the largest and most 
successful establishments of the kind at that 
time. He was the first manufacturer in the 
city to introduce the improved methods of 
making bricks by machinery. He became 
largely interested in real estate on Market 
and State streets, east of the canal. He built 
the Farmers' Market, at the corner of Market 
and Fourteenth streets, having himself guar-, 
an teed the entire stock of the enterprise. 
He was largely influential in developing the 
street railways of the city, and was the chief 
promoter of the East Harrisburg street rail- 
waj\ In 1875 he resumed the study of medi- 
cine and was graduated from the Hahne- 
mann Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1880. 
He then entered upon the practice of medi- 
cine in Camden, N. J., succeeding Dr. Keator 
on Linden Terrace in that, city. He prac- 
ticed there until 1882, and then removed to 
Harrisburg and purchased the large and 
beautiful residence at No. 228 North Third 
street, where his wife died March 10, 1888. 
In 1861 he married Julia E., daughter of 
David and Elizabeth Kendig, of Lancaster 
county, Pa. They have three children: 
John B.; Mary L., wife of J. David Kendig, 
and E. Clarence. The Doctor served on the 
school board of Harrisburg, having been 
elected as a Democrat by a Republican board 
to fill a vacancy, and afterwards elected to 
a full term in a Republican (Ninth) ward. 
He is a member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 
21 ; past high priest of Perseverance Chap- 
ter, No. 21, and past commander of Pilgrim 
Commandery, No. 11, K. T. He is a mem- 
ber of the American Institute of Homoe- 
opathy. Dr. Simon and his family are 
members of Zion Lutheran church, Harris- 
burg, Pa. 



Wagner, Serell, gardening farmer, was 
born in Harrisburg, Pa., December 25, 1840. 
He was a son of Henry and Elizabeth Wag- 
ner, residents of Dauphin county. His par- 
ents had eight children, five of whom are 
deceased. Their living children are : Henry, 
Alfred, and Serell. 

Serell Wagner received his education in 
the public schools. He engaged in farming 
and gardening, and followed this calling 
throughout his life. His politics were Demo- 
cratic. 



He was married, July 31, 1863, to Cathe- 
rine J. Mader, by whom he has three chil- 
dren: John Elmer, Annie N., wife of George 
Davis, and Almeda J. Mrs. Wagner's par- 
ents had fourteen children. The family 
attend Bethel Methodist Episcopal church. 

Mr. Wagner died on March 19, 1896. 



Bomgardner, Jerome, was born in Leb- 
anon county, Pa., March 14, 1852. He is a 
son of Samuel and Sarah (Kratzer) Bom- 
gardner. His parents had eight children, 
four of whom are deceased : Samuel, who 
died in infancy; Catherine, died aged four- 
teen ; Lydia, wife of David Ream, died aged 
about thirty ; and Lucetta, died aged fifty- 
three years, nine months and twenty-five 
days. Their living children are : Elizabeth, 
wife of Elias Kelley, of Lebanon county ; 
John A., residing near Hummelstown ; Je- 
rome,iand Harvey, of Lebanon county. 

Jerome Bomgardner received his educa- 
tion in the public schools. After leaving 
school he engaged in farming, in which oc- 
cupation he has ever since continued. 

He was married, June 22, 1872, to Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Daniel and Rebecca Mary 
Keller. They have had six children, one of 
whom, Charles, died at two years of age. 
Their surviving children are: Lizzie R., 
William, Grant, Harry, and Samuel. The 
parents of Mrs. Bomgardner were natives of 
Lebanon county, Pa. Her father is de- 
ceased, but her mother is still living. 

Mr. Bomgardner, in politics, is a staunch 
Republican. He is a member of Lodge No. 
12, Jr. 0. U. A. M. 



Greenawalt, Charles F., retired farmer 
and real estateMealer, was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., April 5, 1857. He is the only 
child of Philip B. and Susan E. (Fox) Green- 
await. His mother was the only child of 
John and Elizabeth Fox ; Elizabeth Fox 
was the only child of David and Susan 
Shoop, and Susan Shoop was the only child 
of Peter and Elizabeth Blosser, of Dauphin, 
Pa. Susan E. Fox Greenawalt, mother of 
Charles F., died in the spring of 1858, aged 
twenty-eight. 

Charles F. Greenawalt's education was 
begun in the public schools. At the age of 
twelve he attended school in Harrisburg 
under Prof. Gause. At sixteen he entered 
Ursinus College, Montgomery county, Pa., 
and took a course preparatory for entrance 
to the State College. He remained in the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



945 



latter institution until he was twenty years 
old, leaving at that time on account of the 
death of his grandfather. 

He was married, March 4, 1876, to Mary 
Fair, daughter of Isaac and Anna Fagley. 
They had six children : Susan, died in in- 
fancy ; Louis Philip, born September 20, 
1880; Maggie Umberger, born January 
16, 1886; Napoleon Hall, born February 
19, 1887; Caroline, born September 27, 
1890, and John Fox, born January 24, 1895. 
From the time of his marriage until 1887 
Mr. Greenawalt was engaged in farming 
in Susquehanna township. In 1887, by 
the death of his grandfather, he came 
into possession of a vast estate which had 
been in the family since the colonial days of 
1768. He is, therefore, a large landholder ; 
he occupies a beautiful residence situated 
on the river road in Susquehanna township. 

Mr. Greenawalt belongs to the Junior Or- 
der United American Mechanics. He is a 
staunch Republican. He has been a school 
director for six consecutive years, and has 
been president of the school board for five 
years. He was appointed census enumer- 
ator of Susquehanna township in 1890. He 
is one of the trustees of the Coxestown 
Methodist Episcopal church, which he and 
his family attend. 



Snyder, George William, farmer, was 
born November 18, 1842. He is a son of Fred- 
erick and Christiana (Speese) Snyder, natives 
of Germany. His father died in 1858 ; his 
mother is still living. They had eight chil- 
dren, three of whom are deceased. Their 
living children are : Louis, George William, 
John D., Edward S., and Rebecca, wife of 
Joseph Lutz. 

George William Snyder received his edu- 
cation in the district schools of Lebanon 
county. At the age of sixteen his school 
days were ended, and he began regular work 
with his father in the tannery. On September 
18, 1861, he volunteered his service in defense 
of the Nation, and was enrolled in company 
F, Ninety-third regiment, Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, under Colonel McCarter and Lieu- 
tenant Colonel Johnson. He served in the 
army until February, 1863, when he was 
honorably discharged at Alexandria, Va. 
He then returned to his home, and served an 
apprenticeship at carpentry with AVilliam 
Cassel. Having learned his trade he worked 
for two years as journeyman carpenter. At 
the expiration of this time he became a 



farmer, and has since made this his business. 
He was married, August 27, 1867, to Han- 
nah, daughter of Emanuel and Hannah 
Cassel, of Dauphin county. They have had 
two children : Jerome, who died at the age 
of three years and ten months ; and John 
H., who is living. 

The political preferences of Mr. Snyder 
are with the Republican party. He is a 
member of the Reformed church. 



Miller, David, Sr., carpenter and farmer, 
was born in Lancaster county, Pa., Septem- 
ber 8, 1814. He is a son of Samuel and 
Annie (Medlin) Miller. He has the blood of 
Revolutionary soldiers in his veins. His 
grandfather and grandfather's brother came 
to America during the war for freedom from 
British rule. They were seventy-four days 
in crossing the ocean. They landed at New 
York and at once enlisted in the patriot 
army commanded by Washington. The 
army was at that time resisting the landing 
of British troops on Long Island. 

Mr. Miller's parents had five children, of 
whom he is the only one now living. He 
was educated in the subscription schools. 
At sixteen years of age he began to learn 
carpentry. He was engaged in various oc- 
cupations until his marriage ; after this im- 
portant event he became a farmer This 
was his occupation until 1882 ; he then took 
up gardening, in which he has been em- 
ployed from that time to the present. 

He was married, December 24, 1835, to 
Miss Sarah Wood. They have had nine 
children, five of whom are deceased : Sarah 
E., died August 29, 1858; Harriet Ellen, 
died February 25, 1872 ; W. Wesley, died 
April 20, 1881 ; Susan M., died July 15, 1881 ; 
Samuel B., died August 11, 1888. The sur- 
vivors are : David W.; John C; Jane Eliza- 
beth, widow of Moses Zimmerman, and Mary 
Ann, wife of Henry Smith. Mrs. David 
Miller died March 11, 1868. She was one 
of a family of six children. 

Mr. Miller is a Republican. He has 
served one term as a constable of Susque- 
hanna township. He is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal church. He has been 
a very industrious man, and has lived a 
useful and successful life. He is genial and 
sociable, and has drawn around him a circle 
of warm friends. He is an intelligent and 
reliable citizen, and commands the respect 
and confidence of his neighbors. 



946 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Gakman, Charles B., gardening farmer, 
was born at Harrisburg, Pa., November 21, 
1857. He is a son of George B. and Cathe- 
rine (Page) Garman. His parents had nine 
children, two of whom died in infancy. The 
survivors are : Daniel, Mary, Joseph, Henry, 
Sarah J., wife of John L. Beaver, Rebecca, 
and Charles B. The father and mother are 
both deceased. 

Charles B. Garman enjoyed the advan- 
tages afforded by the city schools of Harris- 
burg. He looked forward in his younger 
days to the time when he must begin the 
actual struggles of life, and made good use 
of his time and privileges in preparing him- 
self to act his part well. At nineteen years 
of age his school days ended, and he looked 
about for a beginning of work. He engaged 
in farming, making a specialty of gardening. 

He was married, October 27, 1881, to Mary 
M., daughter of John and Crescenta (Kern) 
Meyer. They have six children : John Carl, 
Mary C, Thirza A., Annie M., Herman G, 
and Bertha Catherine. In political princi- 
ples Mr. Garman is in accord with the Demo- 
cratic part}'. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the Roman Catholic church. He is 
prosperous in his business, because he is en- 
terprising, energetic and skillful. 



Reichert, David J., gardener and farmer, 
was born in Susquehanna township, April 
26, 1862. He is a son of Henry and Mar- 
garet (Douglass) Reichert, natives of Dau- 
phin county, Pa. They had ten children : 
Mary E., deceased ; Emma A., wife of Ham- 
ilton Bender ; David J.; Henry L.; William 
J.; Rebecca, wife of George Hoyert ; Andrew 
A., Benjamin H., Frederick J., and Carrie M. 

David J. Reichert took the usual course in 
the schools of his native township. At the 
close of his school days he engaged in farm- 
ing and gardening, and has continued to 
make these occupations his business to the 
present time. He is alive to the demands of 
the times, and is too enterprising and pro- 
gressive to fall behind the leading men in 
his line. 

He was married, October 18, 1883, to Fan- 
nie E., daughter of Lazarus and Mary 
(Kreiser) Cassel. They have one child, Cleve- 
land W. Reichert. The parents of Mrs. 
Reichert are both old residents of Dauphin 
county. In his political views Mr. Reichert 
is a Democrat. The family are members of 
the Lutheran church. 



Garman, George B., dairyman and farmer, 
was born November 7, 1832. He is a son of 
David and Elizabeth (Brightbill) Garman. 
His father died at the age of seventy-one, and 
his mother at the age of sixty-four years. 
They had fourteen children, eight of whom 
are deceased. The story of two of these, 
George and Benjamin, is like that of many 
other patriotic boys, but it is one which can- 
not be too often told, both as a just tribute 
of gratitude to those who freety gave their 
lives to redeem the Nation and to perpetuate 
free institutions, and as an inspiration to 
coming generations. Both of these boys en- 
listed in the army at the outbreak of the Re- 
bellion. George was killed at the battle of 
Spottsylvania. Benjamin was taken pris- 
oner, and died a lingering death from priva- 
tion in the prison pen of Andersonville. 

George B. Garman was educated in the 
district school of Susquehanna township. He 
left school while still in his teens, and began 
the business of life as a farmer. He is 
adapted to this occupation, and likes it. He 
has the indefatigable, persistent energy and 
purpose which cannot fail. He has demon- 
strated the possibilities of farming in Dau- 
phin count)'. He was married, in October, 
1858, to Mary A., daughter of Peter and Bar- 
bara Fisher. They have six children : Fran- 
cis H.; Emma B., wife of David Moyer; 
Mary E., wife of Edwin Herr; George P.; 
Sallie E., wife of John Starry, and Ida M. 
Mr. Garman has been school director for 
nine consecutive years, and township audi- 
tor for nine years. He is a staunch Repub- 
lican. He and his family are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Meckley, Samuel Joseph, dairyman and 
farmer, was born February 28, 1863. He is 
a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Brubaker) 
Meckley, prominent and highly esteemed 
residents of Susquehanna township and 
members of the Dunkard church. 

Samuel Joseph Meckley received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of his native 
township. He entered upon the business of 
farming at the close of his school days and 
has made this his life occupation. He is a 
staunch Republican. 

At the age of twenty-two years Samuel 
Meckley was married to Ida J. Grove. They 
have two children : Elroy Ellsworth, born 
October 28, 1886, and Mary Elizabeth, No- 
vember 6, 1892. Mr. S. J. Meckley and 
family are members of the Methodist church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



947 



His standing as a business man is among the 
foremost in his line. He is a man of per- 
sonal worth and enjoys the esteem of his 
neighbors. 

S. J. Meckley's parents are members of the 
Dunkard church, but himself and family 
are Methodists. 



Shutt, Henry Lawrence, miller and 
farmer, was born in West Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., April 23, 1856. His 
father died November 28, 1869 ; his mother 
is still living. They had ten children, three 
of whom, William, John Alfred, and Ellen, 
died in infancy. Their living children are: 
Mary J., Stephen E., Catherine A., Sarah A., 
Elizabeth E., Emma R., and Henry Law- 
rence, all of whom have been married. 

Henry Lawrence was educated in the dis- 
trict schools of his native township. His 
school days were cut short at the age of four- 
teen, when he went out from home to make 
his own way. He hired out to work on a 
farm, and was employed in this way until 
1879, .when he engaged in milling. The 
numerous farmers who are his neighbors 
and patrons of his mill, bear testimony that 
he is a square-dealing business man and a 
good citizen. His politics are Republican. 

He was married, May 25, 1875, to Har- 
riet, daughter of George and Rebecca (Mc- 
Clure) Ludwig. They have had ten chil- 
dren, five of whom are deceased : Wilson, 
Isaac, Raymond, and Annie died in infancy, 
and Trueman, aged three years. The sur- 
viving children are : Sarah E., Henry L., 
Lizzie V., David S., and Earl A. Mrs. Shutt's 
parents are both deceased ; her father on 
June 25, 1866, her mother November 3, 
1860. Mr. Shutt's family are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Waltz, Daniel, farmer and dairyman, 
was born January 9, 1838. He is a son of 
Jacob and Sarah (Clemens) Waltz, who both 
died at an advanced age. He attended the 
schools of Dauphin and Lebanon counties. 
Since the age of seventeen years he has been 
continuously engaged in farming. 

At the age of twenty-eight he married 
Melinda, daughter of Benjamin and Lydia 
Geisy. They have had twelve children, 
three of whom died in infancy : Gideon, 
Riley, and John ; and Edward, at the age of 
twenty-four. Their surviving children are : 
Lydia A., Harriet E., Charles H., William 



T, Calra A., Benjamin F., Rose D., and Ma- 
bel M. 

Mr. Waltz has an honorable record as a 
soldier. On July 28, 1861, he enlisted at 
Harrisburg, in company C, First regiment, 
light artillery, under Captain Simpson and 
Colonel Campbell. He served until the close 
of the war, and was honorably discharged at 
Camp Curtin, July 30, 1865. He partici- 
pated in fifteen fiercely contested engage- 
ments, in all of which he displayed the qual- 
ities and bearing of a heroic soldier. His 
brother George, impelled by the same lofty 
patriotism, also enlisted, and laid down his 
life in defense of the Union. He was taken 
prisoner, and died of privation at Anderson- 
ville. A third brother, John H, also ren- 
dered patriotic service in the Two Hundred 
and First regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers. The record of these three brothers is 
worthy of preservation. It will show to the 
young men of the present and future that 
patriotism is among the virtues ; that it may 
demand supreme sacrifice, but that its re- 
wards are imperishable. Mr. Waltz is a 
staunch Republican. His family belong to 
the Evangelical church. 



Hoke, Peter, farmer, was born March 9, 
1830. He is a son of Philip and Maria 
(Fox) Hoke. His parents had eight chil- 
dren, three of whom, Anna, Louisa, and 
Benjamin, are deceased. Their living chil- 
dren are : Elias ; Peter H; Mary, wife of 
Christian Loy ; Lydia, wife of John Weund, 
and Philip. The mother died at the age of 
fifty-seven, and the father at the age of sev- 
enty-five years. 

Peter H. Hoke attended the district 
schools. He became a farmer and has al- 
ways pursued this occupation. At the age 
of twenty-eight he was married to Ruth 
Ann, daughter of Elijah and Lydia Ann 
(Russell) Payne. They have no children, 
but have adopted a son, whom they have 
named John H. Hoke. In political views 
Mr. Hoke has always been a Republican. 
He and his family attend the Reformed 
church. Mr. Hoke is one of the successful 
and prosperous farmers of the township, and 
is a worthy man. 



Snyder, John, dairyman and farmer, was 
born in Dauphin county. He is a son of 
John and Mary (Bright) Snyder/ His par- 
ents had six children, of whom one died in 
infancy ; William, at the age of sixteen ; and 



948 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Elizabeth, wife of Michael Clay, at the age of 
forty-nine years. The survivors are : Sam- 
uel, Benjamin, and John. The mother died, 
and the father married again. His second 
wife was Eliza Balsbach, by whom he had 
six children : George ; Maggie; James; Mary, 
wife of Samuel Brinton ; Harry, and Kate. 
Both parents are living. 

John Snyder attended the district schools 
of his township After his school days were 
ended he was employed for three years on 
the railroad. At the end of that time he 
began farming, and has made this his busi- 
ness up to the present time. He was mar- 
ried, October 13, 1874, to Elmira, daughter 
of Isaac and Mary A. (Shope) Schatzer. 
They have six children : Mary, Ralph, Cora, 
Mabel, Kirk, and Grace. 

Mr. Snyder has efficiently served four con- 
secutive terms as school director for his 
district. In political views he is a staunch 
Republican. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the United Brethren church. Mr. 
Snyder is highly esteemed by his neighbors. 
He is a reliable man and a citizen of public 
spirit. His life is such as to commend him 
to the confidence of those associated with 
him in business and social circles. 



Dagnell, John Richard, miller, was born 
in Prince Edward county, Va., October 10, 
1847. He is a son of John R. and Agnes 
(Rogers) Dagnell. His parents both died 
when he was very young. They had two 
children : Julia, deceased, and John Richard. 

He was educated in the public schools of 
his native county. At the age of twenty-one 
he was married, October 25, 1868, to Susan 
A., daughter of Peter and Margaret Stam- 
baugh. They had nine children, three are 
deceased : Alice, Lula Margaret, and Philip. 
Their surviving children are: Robert R.; 
Agnes V., wife of Frank Sheller; Luella M., 
Harry S., Grace I., and Bessie E. Mrs. Dag- 
nell's father died in 1891, at the age of eighty- 
one years. 

Mr. Dagnell came to Dauphin county four 
years ago and engaged in milling. His resi- 
dence and place of business are situated di- 
rectly on the boundary line between Susque- 
hanna and Lower Paxton township. He has 
conducted his business in such a way as to 
win the confidence of his patrons. His skill 
and trustworthiness are unquestioned; his 
success is decided and most gratifying. 

He is a member of Eureka Lodge, No. 302, 



F. & A. M., Mechanicsburg; also of Council 
No. 197, 0. U. A. M., Mechanicsburg, Pa. 

In politics Mr. Dagnell is independent. In 
voting he selects men of worth and fitness, 
without regard to party connection, but usu- 
ally votes the Democratic ticket. His family 
attend the Reformed church. 



Marzolf, George, gardener and farmer, 
is a native of Ringendorpf, province of Al- 
sace, France. He was born December 13, 
1830. He is a son of George and Margaret 
Marzolf, both deceased. They had eight 
children, six of whom came to America, and 
settled in Dauphin county. They are : Mar- 
garet, wife of Frederick Wagner ; George, 
Michael, John, Mary and Jacob. 

George Marzolf received his education in 
France, and was engaged in farming until 
his emigration to America in 1857. He 
landed in New York and came directly to 
Harrisburg. Here he engaged in farming 
and gardening, which has been his employ- 
ment to the present time. 

He was married, December 25, 1851, to 
Catherine Mosler, one of the five children 
of George and Margaret Mosler, born in the 
town of Wickersheim, Alsace, France. They 
have had four children, two of whom are de- 
ceased. Maggie died at the age of nineteen, 
and Catherine, wife of Frank Mergner, at 
the age of thirty-eight years. The living 
children are, George M. and John. The 
mother died May 16, 1873. The children 
being all adults, and the father left alone, he 
married again ; his second wife was Cathe- 
rine Fifer, daughter of George and Mary 
(Schmidt) Pifer, born in Heingren, Bavaria, 
Germany. Of this marriage there has been 
no issue. 

In political views Mr. Marzolf is Demo- 
cratic. He is a member of the German 
Lutheran church. 



Moody, William H., gardening farmer, 
was born November 29, 1868. He is a son 
of Washington and Adeline (Fleischer) 
Moody. His parents are old and highly re- 
spected residents of Susquehanna township. 
They had ten children, three of whom are 
deceased, Alfred, died in infancy, George 
W. and Annie M., both died at about the 
age of four years. Their living children are: 
Sallie F., wife of Samuel Bankes; William 
H.; Lizzie, wife of Charles Dunlap ; Cathe- 
rine, Charles W., Jennie, and Miriam M. 

William H. Moody attended the public 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



949 



schools. When he was of age to begin busi- 
ness, he engaged in gardening and farming, 
and has made this his occupation to the 
present time. He was married, December 
30, 1892, to Annie L., daughter of Ellis W. 
and Sarah J. (Lebo) Ford. They had one 
son, Ford W. The parents of Mrs. Moody 
are residents of Dauphin county, They had 
a family of three children : one of whom 
died in infancy ; Annie L., and Lizzie W. 
Mrs. Ford died July 28, 1882, aged forty-two. 
Mr. Ford married for his second wife, Re- 
becca Smith, by whom he had three children : 
two of whom are deceased ; George, died in 
infancy, and Don S., at the age of six. 

Mr. Moody is still a young man, but has 
displayed good business qualities, and by 
his energy and thrift has established a good 
reputation, and is regarded as a successful 
gardener and farmer. He is a Democrat. 
The family are members' of the Methodist 
Episcopal church. 



Rineard, Samuel W., gardening farmer, 
was born in Susquehanna township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., December 19, 1841. He 
is a son of Henry and Elizabeth Catherine 
(Sponsler) Rineard. His father was born 
March 21, 1817, and died March 3, 1890 ; 
his mother was born February 26, 1817, and 
died September 12, 1880. They had four 
children: one died in infancy, unnamed; 
Susanna A., died August 21, 1856, and 
Jacob C, February 29, 1872. Samuel W., 
the second of the family, is the only sur- 
vivor. He took the ordinary course of in- 
struction in the common schools of Susque- 
hanna township. He learned blacksmith- 
ing, and worked at that trade for about 
twenty years. Then, changing his occupa- 
tion, he began gardening and farming, and 
has continued in this business. 

He was married, September 17, 1865, to 
Mary Ellen, daughter of John M. and Mary 
Reichard. They had two children ; one died 
an infant, March 2, 1872 ; the surviving 
child is Harry C. Mrs. Rineard's parents 
were prominent and highly respected resi- 
dents of Dauphin county. They are both 
deceased. Mr. Rineard is a Republican. 
The family attend the Lutheran church. 

Harry C. Rineard, son of Samuel W., was 
married, February 18, 1889, to Lillie A., 
daughter of Theophilus and Caroline Strayer, 
by whom he has three children: David H, 
Kenneth T., and Mary Ellen. 



The Rineard homestead has been in the 
possession of the family over a century. 
Mary Madelina, Mr. Rineard's aunt, was 
born on the homestead, July 20, 1812, and 
spent her life there. She died November 8, 
1892. His uncle, Samuel Rineard, was born 
there November 13, 1815. He is still living, 
having spent his life also on the homestead. 



Smith, Andrew C, gardener and farmer, 
was born January 15, 1861. He is a son of 
David and Lydia (Hocker) Smith. His 
parents had ten children, all of whom are 
living : Mary, wife of John Loban ; Andrew 
C; Katie, widow of David Sheesley ; Alice, 
wife of Frank Eshmer ; Annie, wife of Frank 
Ebersoll ; David, Jr.; George ; Lizzie, wife 
of Harry Wolf; Emma, and Jennie. 

Andrew C. Smith received his education 
in the district schools of his native town- 
ship. After leaving school he engaged in 
gardening and farming. He has continued 
in this business and has prosecuted it with 
skill and energy. He stands among the 
most successful men in his line in Susque- 
hanna township. 

He was married, October 2, 1882, to Mary 
A., daughter of Jacob C. and Margaret 
(SchlegeT) Matzinger. They have four chil- 
dren : Edward J., David W., Margaret Eva, 
and one child who died in infancy. He is 
a Republican. His family are members of 
the United Brethren church. 

The parents of Mrs. Smith were married 
January 13, 1865. They had four children : 
John W.; Mary A., wife of Andrew C. Smith ; 
Frank H, and William J. The father died 
January 9, 1892, deeply mourned by his 
loving wife and children, and by his many 
friends and neighbors. 



Klopfer, Gottlieb, farmer, was born in 
Weilheim, county of Cluudeheim, Wurtem- 
berg, Germany. He is a son of Gottlieb and 
Dora (Pfitzer) Klopfer. They had ten chil- 
dren, two of whom died in infancy. The 
living children are : Dora, wife of Gottlieb 
Mock ; Gottlieb, Carl H, Frederick, Henry, 
Albert, Christina, and Lotta, wife of Mr. 
Monroe. Both parents died in Germany, 
the father aged sixty-five years, the mother 
aged forty. 

Gottlieb Klopfer received his education in 
the private schools of his native town. He 
learned shoemaking in Germany. He came 
to America in 1850. He sailed from Havre, 
France, was aboard ship six weeks, landed 



950 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



at New York and located in Philadelphia. 
There he worked at his trade. Removing to 
Harrisburg in the fall of 1851, he continued 
for five years to work at shoemaking. In 
1856 he became a farmer, locating in Sus- 
quehanna township, where he has since fol- 
lowed the same vocation. When he came 
there were but four German farmers in the 
township ; he is now the oldest farmer of 
the township. Mr. Klopfer's first presiden- 
tial vote, after obtaining his naturalization 
papers in 1856, was cast for James Buchanan. 
His political views are still in harmony with 
those of the Democratic party. 

He was married, at Harrisburg, in March, 
1853, to Caroline Switzer. They have had 
five children, one of whom, Henry, died 
aged six months. Their living children are : 
Mary E., wife of James Beaver ; Louisa, wife 
of Frank Kline ; Albert, and Charles, both 
unmarried. Mr. Klopfer is a member of the 
Lutheran church. 



Witman, Daniel, farmer, was born in 
Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa. He 
is a son of John and Catherine (Messuer) 
Witman. His parents had nine children, 
five of whom are deceased : Lavinia died at 
the age of two ; Margaret, at the age of four ; 
John, aged twenty-two ; Catherine, wife of 
Henry Wilbert, aged thirty-two ; Sarah, wife 
of George W. Enders, at the age of thirty- 
one. Their living children are : Polly, wife 
of Henry Stoneroad ; Daniel, William, and 
Elizabeth. 

Daniel Witman received his education in 
the private schools of his native town. After 
leaving school he engaged in farming and 
in other occupations, working as a carpenter 
for three years. He then returned to the 
farm, where he has remained. He enlisted 
in the short service, in company C, com- 
manded by Capt. Henry 0. Witman, Thirty- 
sixth regiment, Pennsylvania militia, under 
Colonel Alleman. He is a Republican. He 
has served efficiently as road supervisor in 
Susquehanna township for one term. He 
also held the office of tax collector in Jackson 
township. He is a member in good stand- 
ing of the Jacksonville Council, No. 80, at 
Enders postoffice, Dauphin county. He and 
his family are members of the German Re- 
formed church. 

He was married, in Jackson township, 
March 8, 1857, to Mary, daughter of Joseph 
P. and Elizabeth (Bowman) Lyter. They 
have had fourteen children, seven of whom 



are deceased : Ellen Sevilla, died at the age 
of two years ; Oliver Theodore, at the age of 
four years; Joseph Oscar, at the age of six- 
teen months ; John Oliver, aged four years ; 
Lydia Louisa, aged seven ; Sarah Elspy, aged 
eleven ; and one who died in infancy. Their 
living children are : Peter Bartholomew, 
Catherine E., Mary Jane, Daniel Grant, Mar- 
tha Peninnah, Emanuel Wesley, and Cora 
Daisy. Catherine E. is the wife of John P. 
Conrad ; Mary Jane is the wife of Samuel 
Zeiters, and Martha Peninnah is the wife of 
William H. Conrad. 



Clay, Daniel W., gardening farmer, was 
born in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., June 17, 1854. He is a son of 
Adam and Sarah (Rapp) Clay. They had 
four children, one of whom, John A., died 
aged twenty-four ; he lost his life on the 
Pennsylvania railroad at Harrisburg, where 
he was employed as car inspector. He left 
a wife and one child. Mr. and Mrs Clay's 
living children are : Elmira, wife of Stephen 
Hassler, of Reading, Pa.; William F., and 
Daniel W. The father died aged sixty-four 
years; the mother is still living. 

Daniel W. Clay was educated in the public 
schools of West Hanover township. He was 
on the farm assisting his father until he was 
twenty-five, when he began as a gardening 
farmer on his own account. His energy, 
skill and industry soon brought him success, 
and he now ranks among the most thriving 
and prosperous men in his line in the town- 
ship. He was married, June 21, 1877, to 
Ellen E., daughter of David and Susan 
Reichert. They have one child, Ida F., who 
is at school, and stands high in her classes. 
Mr. Clay is a staunch Republican. He and 
his family attend the Lutheran church. 

The father of Mrs. Clay died at the age 
of fifty-two years and ten months, and the 
mother February 15, 1892, aged seventy- 
eight years and eleven months. They had 
seven children ; of these, John and Katie 
died in infancy ; the surviving children are: 
Daniel E., Sarah, David, Susan, wife of Ben- 
jamin C. Hoover, and Ellen Ethel, wife of 
D. W. Clay. 



Hummel, Jacob, gardening farmer, was 
born in Susquehanna township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 28, 1843. He is a son of 
Christian and Catherine (Rineard) Hummel. 
Christian Hummel was born March 12, 
1819, and died May 30, 1885. His wife, 



DAUPHIN COUNT F. 



951 



■ Catherine Rineard, was born April 4, 1823, 
and died January 23, 1880. They had six 
children : two died in infancy, Mary Jane, 
born November 3, 1849, died February 23, 
1850, and Elizabeth, born November 12, 
1852, died April 15, 1855 ; David, who was 
born January 5, 1855, died May 24, 1887. 
The surviving children are: Jacob, born 
March 28, 1843; Sarah Ann, widow of 
Aaron Shreiner, born November 22, 1846; 
and Jeremiah, born February 13, 1858. 

Jacob Hummel received a common school 
education in his native township. After his 
school days were ended he at once began 
business for himself. He engaged in gar- 
dening and farming and has made this his 
occupation. Mr. Hummel has served his 
native township for ten consecutive terms as 
supervisor, and has performed the duties of 
his office with satisfaction to the public and 
with credit to himself. By his honest and 
fair dealing he has secured the confidence 
of the community. His political views are 
Democratic. 

Jacob Hummel was married, February 18, 
1877, to Sarah, daughter of Jacob and Ra- 
chel Hawk, both now deceased. Mr. and 
Mrs. Hummel have two children : George 
W. and Sadie G. The family are members 
of the German Lutheran church. 



Shreiner, Aaron, was born in Lancaster 
county on April 27, 1842. He was the son 
of Daniel and Eliza Shreiner. His parents 
had twelve children, six of whom are de- 
ceased. Those living are : Louisa, wife of 
Andrew Reed, residing in Kansas ; Catherine, 
wife of William Frick, of Barto, Pa.; Ella, 
wife of James Faley, of Harrisburg ; Sarah, 
wife of William Lingle, of Philadelphia ; 
Mary, wife of a Mr. Rickard, of Illinois; and 
George, of Linglestown, Pa. 

Aaron Shreiner had the educational op- 
portunities enjoyed by the average farmer 
boy. He was dutiful and faithful and of 
more than ordinary intelligence. By dili- 
gent use of his opportunities he became well 
prepared for the actual work of life by the 
time when he must begin it. He was pru- 
dent and skillful in business and earned well- 
merited success by his careful and frugal 
methods. He was highly esteemed by his 
neighbors. 

On February 24, 1874, he married Sarah 
Ann, daughter of Christian and Catherine 
(Rineard) Hummel ; she was born Novem- 
ber 22, 1846, in Susquehanna township. 



They had one child, William Irwin. Mr. 
Shreiner died April 2, 1894, aged fifty-one 
years. He was a Republican. Mrs. Shreiner 
and his son are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal church. His death was deeply 
mourned by a wide circle of friends and 
acquaintances, who highly esteemed him for 
his many virtues and amiable characteristics, 
and honored him as an upright and benev- 
olent man. It was his strong desire and 
ambition to give his only son a liberal 
education, and it is the aim of the widowed 
mother to fulfill his wish and carry out his 
plans. 

The parents of Mrs. Shreiner had six chil- 
dren, three of whom are living : Jacob ; Sarah 
Ann, Mrs. Shreiner; and Jeremiah, born 
February 13, 1850, residing at Steelton, Pa. 
Their deceased children were: Mary Ann, 
died February 23, 1850; Elizabeth, born 
November 12, 1852,^ died April 15, 1855; 
David E., born January 13, 1855, died May 
24, 1887. 



David Heppord's father died aged ninety- 
five years ; his mother aged eighty years and 
three months. He was a blacksmith and 
worked at his trade until 1847, when he took 
up the business of gardening and farming, 
which he carried on throughout the rest of 
his life. He bought the present homestead, 
consisting of about four acres, in 1868. He 
was a strong Republican. The family are 
members of the German Reformed church. 
In 1835 he was married to Susanna, daugh- 
ter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Hetrich) Lingle, 
born June 17, 1814. They had ten children: 
Samuel; John J.; David, died August 3, 
1890; George; Mary Ann, died aged two 
years and three months; Enos; Joshua, died 
aged eleven ; Susan, wife of William Mun- 
ger ; Thomas ; Sarah, wife of Luther Lenker. 

Thomas Lingle, the father of Mrs. Hep- 
ford, died in 1815. He married Elizabeth 
Hetrich, by whom he had three children: 
Adam, Elizabeth, and Susanna, wife of Daniel 
Hepford. Mrs. tingle's second marriage was 
with John Shoop, by whom she had three 
children: Annie, wife of Cyrus Stapler; 
Sarah, who died aged twenty-four, and John, 
who died at the age of thirty years. 

Mrs. Hepford has, up to the present time, 
thirty-five grandchildren and fifteen great- 
grandchildren. Four of the grandchildren 
are deceased. The names of the grandchil- 
dren by families are as follows: Laura F., 
Dora S. E., Sadie M., Carrie B., Mary S., 



952 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Josephine E., Grace P., Samuel G., and John 
E., children of Matilda Hepford; Laura, 
Annie, Gertrude, Minerva, Stella, Alice, Nel- 
lie, Herbert, and Vernada, children of David 
and Mary Hepford ; William, Daniel, Emma, 
John, and Annie, children of George and 
Susan Hepford ; Laura, John, Bertha, Charles, 
Sadie, and Rose, children of William and 
Susan Hepford Munger ; Charles, son of Enos 
and Ellen Hepford , William, Jesse, Walter, 
Charles, and Samuel, children of Luther and 
Sarah Hepford Lenker. 

The great-grandchiidren are : E. Chester. 
Edna M., Harry L., and Grace M. Sparver; 
Irene E. and Charles H. Loomis ; Robert H. 
Elliott; Mary, Edna, George, and an infant 
not yet named, children of William and Sallie 
Hepford; Ross and two other children of 
David and Emma Hepford; an infant child 
of Russell and Annie Hepford Byers. 



Waltz, Benjamin, dairyman and farmer, 
was born in Lebanon county, Pa., June 17, 
1850. He is a son of Jacob and Sarah (Clem- 
ens) Waltz. His parents were natives of 
Lebanon county. The father died October 
20, 1881, aged seventy-two ; the mother died 
August 31, 1893. They had ten children, 
four of whom are deceased : Jacob, Cath- 
erine, Rose, and George, who died in the 
army. The living children are : David; Re- 
becca, wife of Jacob Stouffer ; Sarah, wife of 
John Reinert, residing in Kansas ; Alfred, 
John, and Benjamin. 

Benjamin Waltz received his education in 
the public schools of Lower Paxton town- 
ship. He engaged in farming and has made 
this his life-long occupation. At the age of 
twenty-two he was married, January 9, 1873, 
to Amanda E. Bell, daughter of David and 
Rachel Bell. 

The parents of Mrs. Waltz had nine chil- 
dren, three of whom are deceased : John A., 
Allen, and Levi, all died in infancy. Their 
surviving children are : Sarah J., wife of 
George Herman ; Adam H.; Amanda E., 
Mrs. Waltz ; George T., Monroe D., and Ed- 
ward K. The parents are both living, and 
reside in Dauphin county. Mr. Waltz is a 
staunch Republican. The family are mem- 
bers of the Evangelical church. 



seventy-six years. They had ten children, 
six of whom are deceased. Their living 
children are: Samuel Walker, George Lu- 
ther, Mary Susanna, wife of Joseph Hain, 
and John E. 

John E. Trullinger attended the public 
schools in Susquehanna township. He chose 
the occupation of farmer, and has been en- 
gaged in this business up to the present time. 
He was married, April 14, 1886, to Cathe- 
rine, daughter of Joseph and Susan (Han- 
chow) Hain. They have one child, Sylva 
Minerva. The parents of Mrs. Trullinger 
had seven children. The father died at the 
age of sixty -five years. 

Mr. Trullinger is an energetic and enter- 
prising young man. By his good manage- 
ment and thrift he has taken rank among 
the successful farmers of the township. In 
his political views he is a staunch Republi- 
can. The family are members of the Ger- 
man Lutheran church. 



Trullinger, John E., dairyman and 
farmer, was born June 29, 1858. He is a 
son of William and Elizabeth (Walker) 
Trullinger. His father is living ; his 
mother died November 16, 1894, aged 



Clemens, Reuben, dairyman and farmer, 
was born in East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., July 30, 1842. He is a 
son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Miller) Clemens. 
His parents had eight children, three of 
whom are deceased : one died in infancy ; 
Reuben, the first son by that name, died at the 
age of five years, and William F. at the age 
of seven. Their surviving children are : 
Cyrus P.; Livina, wife of Benjamin Hess, 
John H; Reuben, second son by this name, 
and Jacob M. His mother died April 8, 
1895, aged eighty years. His father died 
six days later, April 14, 1895, aged eighty- 
five. 

Reuben Clemens was educated in the pri- 
vate and public schools of East Hanover 
township. He was in the farm and dairy 
business up to the time of his mar- 
riage. He was twenty-two years old when 
he was married, November 6, 1862, to Sarah 
E., daughter of John D. and Elizabeth 
(Hoover) Felty. They have seven children, 
two of whom are deceased: William F., died 
in infancy, and Ida M., at the age of seven 
years. Their living children are : Adelia 
P.; Mary E., wife of Adam Hocker; Jacob 
M., Sarah E., and Margaret L. 

In August, 1864, he enlisted in company 
B, Two Hundred and First Pennsylvania 
volunteers, under Capt. William McCarroll 
and Colonel Awl. He served for ten months, 
during which time he was stationed in the 
eastern part of Virginia. He was honorably 




<___/. V?^ o£^>^»-£i»~ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



955 



discharged and mustered out at Harrisburg. 
He then returned to his native township. 
In the spring of 1866 he removed to Harris- 
burg, and for nineteen years was employed 
in the Eagle Works. In the spring of 1895 
he bought the homestead, where he now re- 
sides, cultivating the soil and conducting a 
dairy. Mr. Clemens is a Republican. He 
and his family are members of the Church 
of God. 



Lucas, William D., dairyman and farmer, 
was born in Colerain township, Lancaster 
county, Pa., November 20, 1845. He is a 
son of Robert and Charlotte Lucas. His 
parents had nine children, one of whom, 
James, died at the age of four years. Their 
surviving children are: Charles L.; Sarah, 
widow of a Mr. Hansziegle ; William D.; 
Robert J.; Christiana, wife of Nelson John- 
son ; Harry H; Newton J.; Ellen, wife of 
William Fraim. His father died in 1871, 
aged seventy-two. 

William D. Lucas received his early edu- 
cation in the district schools of his native 
county. When he was sixteen years old his 
parents removed to Indiana county, Pa., and 
he attended the public schools of that county. 
After leaving school he learned iron mould- 
ing at Lancaster, Pa. This trade acquired, 
he went to Harrisburg, Pa., and engaged as 
journeyman in the Harrisburg Car Works. 
He was employed by this company for ten 
years. He then removed to Perry count}', 
Pa., and engaged in dairy farming. Re- 
turning later to Harrisburg, he took charge 
of the stock at the asylum. After holding 
this position for about two years, he resumed 
dairy farming, which he has carried on up 
to the present time. 

Mr. Lucas was married, October 28, 1872, 
to Susan B., daughter of Philip K. and Mary 
Auxer. Of their four children, Samuel H. 
died in infancy, and Frank T. aged ten 
years. The surviving children are: Philip 
A. and Daniel E. Mr. Lucas is a member 
in good standing of State Capital Lodge, No. 
70, I. 0. 0. F. He is a staunch Republican. 
He and his family are members of the 
Church of God. Philip K. Auxer, father 
of Mrs. Lucas, died in February, 1887, aged 
seventy-five ; his wife August 20, 1878, aged 
sixty-five years. 



Sr., by his first wife. His mother died 
while he was an infant. The second wife of 
John Raysor, Sr., was Susan Fackler; they 
had three children: Elizabeth, Catherine and 
Samuel. 

John Raysor, Jr., married Mary Frantz ; 
they had three children : Susanna, unmar- 
ried and residing in Susquehanna township; 
Michael F., and John F. Mr. Raysor died 
September 18, 1894; his wife February 16, 
1887. 

Susanna F. Raysor, only daughter and 
eldest child of John and Mary (Frantz) 
Raysor, was born in Susquehanna township, 
Dauphin county, Pa. She was educated in 
the district schools of her native township. 
Since her school days she has always de- 
voted much of her time and attention to 
Christian work, and has been active in aid- 
ing the various enterprises by which the 
church seeks to promote the welfare of so- 
ciety. She has dispensed a generous hospi- 
tality, and by her good works and her be- 
neficent and amiable life and character she 
has won the esteem and love of the com- 
munity. She is a member of Zion Lutheran 
church, and is active and self-sacrificing in 
promoting the interests of that religious or- 
ganization. 



Raysor, John, was born in Susquehanna 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., October 28, 
1815. He was the only child of John Raysor, 
6o 



Peters, Abraham, miller, was born in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 19, 1827 ; son of Henry and Nancy 
(Kinter) Peters, of Lancaster county, Pa.; his 
parents had eight children, three of whom 
are deceased. Their living children are: 
Henry; Samuel; Elizabeth, who is Mrs. 
Haldeman and resides in Indiana; Barbara, 
wife of David Books, of Hummelstown, Pa.; 
and Abraham. Mr. Henry Peters died aged 
• ninety years, two months and seven days ; 
Mrs. Nancy Peters at the age of seventy-six 
years. 

Abraham Peters was educated in the sub- 
scription schools of his native county. He 
was then engaged in farming until 1863, 
when he removed to the village of Progress, 
Dauphin county, Pa., and began the manu- 
facture of brooms. In 1876 he engaged in 
milling. His skill as a mechanic, his integ- 
rity, and his many other excellent character- 
istics have made him popular and successful. 
His business has steadily increased, so that 
he has been compelled to enlarge his exten- 
sive plant to its present proportions. He 
was married, October 16, 1848, to Annie, 
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Stoner. One 



956 



. BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of their five children, Louisa, died aged thir- 
teen years. The living children are : Eliza- 
beth, wife of David Hoerner ; John, Henry, 
and Abraham. Mrs. Peters died June 4, 
1867. Mr. Peters' second wife was Susan 
Hoerner, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth 
Seibert. Their children were : Mary Alice, 
who died aged seven ; Maggie, wife of Grant 
Early ; and William. Mr. Peters is a staunch 
Republican. The family are members of the 
Church of God. 



Strine, Daniel H, blacksmith and wheel- 
wright, was born in Cumberland county, 
Pa. He is a son of Henry C. and Rebecca 
(Danner) Strine. They had nine children, 
of whom one died in infancy; Elizabeth 
died at the age of fifty. Their living chil- 
dren are : Samuel P.; Lydia A., wife of John 
Reed ; Daniel H.; Regina S.; Mary J., wife 
of John Grunden ; William C, and Clara, 
wife of Edward Long. Mrs. Strine died 
May 13, 1869, and Mr. Strine April 20, 
1893, aged about eighty-one years. 

Daniel H. Strine was educated in the dis- 
trict schools of his native count}'. When he 
was nineteen he began to learn blacksmi th- 
ing with John Reed, Lower Paxton town- 
ship. At the age of twenty-three he began 
business for himself in that township, re- 
maining there for fifteen years. In 1889 he 
removed to the village of Progress, where he 
has ever since continued work at his trade. 
His strict integrity and honorable dealings 
have built up for him a large and paying 
business. He is a complete master of his 
art, and is reliable and agreeable. His 
principle is, an honest dollar's worth of 
work for an honest dollar. 

He was married, February 7, 1869, to 
Sarah C, daughter of John and Elizabeth 
(Billet) Aungst. They have four children : 
Wesley A., born February 22, 1871 ; Grace 
M., wife of Oscar Holtzman, born March 24, 
1873 ; Minnie E., born August 30, 1882 ; 
Annie M., born June 2, 1892. Mr. Strine's 
political views are Democratic. He and his 
family attend the Church of God. 



Shuey, Daniel, shoemaker, was born in 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 14, 1836. He is a son of Jacob and 
Catherine (Moon) Shuey. His parents had 
thirteen children, two of whom died in in- 
fancy. Their living children are "William, 
Catherine, Jacob, John, Daniel, Mary, wife 



of Peter Leiten, Samuel, Adam, George, 
Henry, and Lizzie, wife of Christian Wine- 
rich. 

Daniel Shuey received his education in 
the district schools of his native township. 
At the age of eighteen he began to learn 
shbemaking with David Crum, of Paxton 
township. His apprenticeship over he en- 
gaged in business for himself. After this he 
was in the employment of Forney Bros., 
Harrisburg, Pa., working at his trade for ten 
years. During this time he kept his home 
at Progress and walked back and forth be- 
tween home and shop every morning and 
evening. Ever since leaving the employ- 
ment of Forney Bros, he has clone business 
on his own account at Progress. He has an 
enviable reputation among his numerous 
patrons as a skillful and reliable mechanic, 
honest and agreeable in his manners. His 
maxim has always been to give a dollar's 
worth of work for every dollar of pay that 
he receives. 

He was married at the age of twenty- 
three to Sarah, daughter of Jacob and Eliza- 
beth Pottinger. Two of their children are 
deceased : Edward, who died aged ten years, 
and Katie, who died in infancy. The sur- 
vivors are two : Elizabeth, wife of Mr. Fag- 
ley, of Harrisburg, and Mary, wife of Reuben 
Packer. Mrs. Sarah Shuey dying, Mr. Shuey 
married, October 25, 1866, Miss Elizabeth, 
daughter of John Bauman. They have had 
four children : one who died in infancy and 
Sadie, William, and John. 

Mr. Shuey is a staunch Republican. He 
and his family are members of the Church 
of God. 



Sheesley, John H, dairyman, farmer and 
stockman, was born April 19, 1851. He is a 
sou of Jonathan and Catherine (Raysor) 
Sheesley. Abraham Sheesley, grandfather 
of John H., was a carpenter. He was a man 
of extraordinary intelligence and was hon- 
ored by all who knew him. He filled the 
position of local president in the United 
Brethren church. He died October 1, 1871, 
lacking only eight days of being eighty-five 
years old. His wife died September 29, 1873, 
at nearly eighty-two years of age. They had 
fifteen children, only five of whom are 
living. The parents of John H. Sheesley 
had five children. One of them, David F., 
died at the age of twenty-eight. Their living 
children are: Susan, wife of Joshua Bright- 
bill ; Elizabeth, wife of John Good; Samuel 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



957 



R., and John H. Mr. Sheesley's father died 
February 4, 1887, aged seventy-two years ; 
his mother September 24. 1889, aged nearly 
seventy-two. 

John H. Sheesley received his early edu- 
cation in the district schools. At the age of 
eighteen he entered a private academy at 
Harrisburg, under Prof. Gause, and studied 
for two terms. He was then at Lebanon 
Valley College, Annville, Lebanon county, 
Pa., for one term, after which he taught 
school for two years in Susquehanna town- 
ship, and for three years in Lower Paxton 
township, at the Pleasant Hill school house. 
From that time until the present he has 
given his principal attention to farming and 
the raising of cattle and horses in his native 
township, making a specialty of the breed- 
ing of stock for dairy purposes. He is also 
extensively interested in the manufacture of 
lime as a fertilizer and for building purposes. 
His establishment has an extensive local 
patronage, and also supplies large demands 
from the builders of Harrisburg and neigh- 
boring towns. 

Mr. Sheesley was married, September 9, 
1875, to Catherine E., daughter of William 
and Catherine E. (Levan) Fisher. They 
have had four children. Those living are : 
Byron F., born November 9, 1876 ; John M., 
July 25, 1881, and Charles E, May 29, 1884. 
William H., born May 25, 1879, died Sep- 
tember 28, 1894, aged fifteen years, four 
months and three days. He was a youth of 
unusual intelligence. His amiable disposi- 
tion won the esteem and fond affection of 
his parents and brothers, his companions at 
school and his many friends and acquaint- 
ances. 

Mr. Sheesley is a member in good stand- 
ing of the Farmers' Grange. He is a staunch 
Republican. Mrs. Sheesley is a member of 
the Woman's Missionary Society of the 
United Brethren church, which church Mr. 
Sheesley and his family belong. 

William and Catherine (Levan) Fisher, 
the parents of Mrs. Sheesley, had three chil- 
dren : John L., Catherine E., and George L. 
They were natives of Bucks county, Pa., and 
resided there until their removal to Dauphin 
county, where they now live. Benjamin 
Levan, maternal grandfather of Mrs. Shees- 
ley, lived to the age of eighty two years, and 
his wife to eighty-three. Her paternal 
grandfather, John Fisher, lived to the age 
of seventy-five years ; his wife died at about 
the same age. 



Good, John, harness maker, was born in 
Upper Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., August 27, 1836. He is a son of Henry 
and Lydia (Eders) Good. His parents had 
six children, one of whom, Jacob, met his 
death by accident at Media, Pa., in 1865, at 
the age of twenty-six. He had served three 
years in the army in company D, Forty- 
sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. 
Their surviving children are : Barbara; John ; 
Henry ; Catherine, wife of William Bolton, 
and Christian E. Henry Good, the father, 
died aged seventy-three ; his wife is still liv- 
ing. 

John Good was educated in the common 
schools of his native township. His school 
days ended when he was nineteen ; he then 
learned harness making with Jonas Schoener, 
at Linglestdwn, Dauphin county. After 
learning his trade he worked at it as a jour- 
neyman for two years, and then began busi- 
ness for himself in Jackson towship, Dauphin 
county. Then for one year he was farming 
in Lower Paxton, his native township. Re- 
suming work at his trade he opened a shop 
at Progress, and continued there until 1884, 
when he retired from business. He is now 
settled in a comfortable and beautiful home 
adjoining the Church of God, in the village 
of Progress. 

He was married, November 19, 1868, to 
Elizabeth, daughter of Jonathan and Cathe- 
rine Sheesley. They have one child, Oscar 
E. Mr. Good is a staunch Republican. He 
and his family are members of the United 
Brethren church at Penbrook. Mr. Good 
enjoys the confidence and esteem of his 
neighbors. After an active and useful life, 
he is justly entitled to the rest and happiness 
of his quiet home. 



Rudy, MiCHAEL,was a son of Frederick and 
Elizabeth Rudy. His parents had eleven 
children, ten of whom are deceased : John ; 
Daniel; Catherine, wife of William Orth ; 
Elizabeth, wife of Daniel Plause ; Frederick ; 
Jonas; Michael; Maria, wife of Joseph Mc 
Ardle ; Jacob, and a child who died un- 
named. The one living is Jacob. 

Michael Rudy was an enterprising and 
successful farmer in Susquehanna town- 
ship). He succeeded his father on the old 
Rudy farm, which has been owned and oc- 
cupied by the family for ninety-five years. 
He continued to occupy and cultivate the 
farm until 1884, when he removed to the 
homestead where his widow now resides, 



958 



BIO GRA PHI GAL ENGYGL OPEDIA 



and where he died, January 27, 1894. He 
was married, October 4, 1847, and had a 
family of five children ; one died in infancy, 
unnamed, and Rebecca E. died January 25, 
1857, aged two years and nine months. 
Their living children are : Sarah Jane, wife 
of John W. Smith ; Mary E., wife of John 
Snoke, and Martha Alice, wife of William 
Forbes. Mr. Rudy was a successful business 
man and was highly respected by his neigh- 
bors. He was a firm adherent to the Re- 
publican party. He was a member of the 
German Reformed church, to which his 
family also belong. 

Mrs. Rudy was born in Susquehanna 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., February 
26, 1827, and educated in the public schools 
of Upper Paxton township. Her parents 
had twelve children, seven of whom are de- 
ceased. Two died in infancy, unnamed ; 
Jacob died aged sixty-nine years ; Isaac, 
aged five, and Jane, aged twenty-six ; Joseph 
died from the effects of typhoid fever, while 
serving in the United States army, at the 
age of forty ; he enlisted March 18, 1865. 
The last who died was Mary, wife of John 
Moyer. The surviving children are: Cathe- 
rine, wife of Abraham Mader ; Susan ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of Emanuel Walburn ; John, and 
George. Mrs. Rudy's father died March 9, 
1868, aged seventy vears ; her mother died 
June 19, 1884. 



Smith, David H., was born in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa. He 
is a son of Samuel and Mary (L/ ngenecker) 
Smith. He was brought up in Dauphin 
county, and educated in the district schools. 
At the age of eighteen, prompted by patriotism, 
he enlisted in the army, and fought in de- 
fense of the Union. He enlisted August 22, 
1861, in company H, Forty-seventh Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, under Capt. James Kacey 
and Col. T. H. Good. He served the full 
term of his enlistment, three years, with 
valor and distinction. He rose from the 
ranks to be first sergeant, under Capt. Reuben 
S. Gardner. He was honorably discharged, 
December 25, 1865, at Charleston, S. C. He 
remained in Camp Cadwalader, at Philadel- 
phia, until January, 1866, when he received 
his bounty in full. Returning to his home 
in Linglestown, he began as a farmer, but 
has since been engaged in various occupa- 
tions. He is a member of Post No. 116, G. 
A. R., Harrisburg ; of Dauphin Castle, No. 
250, K. G. E.; and Mt. Vernon Council, No. 



333, Jr. 0. U. A. M. Mr. Smith is a staunch 
Republican. During his service in the army, 
he took part in nine fiercely contested battles 
and was twice wounded. 

He was married, May 30, 1873, to Matilda 
J. Saul, born in Susquehanna township, Sep- 
tember 22, 1840 ; daughter, of Joseph and 
Mary (Garevick) Saul. Their children were: 
Sallie J., wife of Rev. J. A. Detter, of Hunt- 
ingdon county, Pa., and Edith E. 

The parents of Mrs. Smith had ten children, 
four of whom are deceased : Josiah and 
Fannie died in infancy ; Lydia at the age of 
eight years and nine months ; and Mary 
Barbara at the age of thirty-five years ; she 
was married, and resided in Germany, where 
she died. The surviving children are : Will- 
iam S., of Perry county, Pa.; Margaret S., 
wife of Austin McGraw, of Jefferson City, 
Mo.; Catherine A., wife of W. W. Morrow; 
Mrs. Susan E. Putnam, of St. Louis, Mo.; 
Matilda J., and Joseph S. Her mother, Mrs. 
Mary Saul, died August 17, 1868 ; her father 
died March 18, 1887, aged eighty-three years 
and nineteen clays. He was born February 
27, 1804, either in Lebanon or Dauphin 
county, probably in the former, near Jones- 
town. While he was a child the family re- 
moved to Lower Paxton township, where 
they remained until his father died ; Joseph 
was then about eighteen. He remained with 
his mother, and was her main support until 
he was twenty-four, when his mother and 
brothers, except the eldest, with his sisters, 
removed West. 

He married shortly after, and removed to 
Susquehanna township. He removed from 
place to place until 1848, when he purchased 
a small tract of land, the site of his late house 
in Progress. There he built the second or 
third house erected in the town, in which he 
ended his days. He was a good citizen, and 
respected by all. He was cordial and prompt 
in all neighborly offices, giving counsel and 
aid in various ways, and always by safe and 
judicious methods. His disposition, uni- 
formly cheerful, endeared him to everybody. 
In some respects he was peculiar. He never 
rode in a railroad car. When a young man 
he went on foot from the vicinity of Lingles- 
town to Gettysburg, and returned in the same 
way ; this distance was the farthest he ever 
went from home. He was a consistent and 
devout Christian. At the age of twenty-one, 
he was converted and connected himself with 
the Methodist church. In later years he be- 
came a member of the United Brethren in 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



959 



Christ, in his native town. He was twice 
married, and the father of ten children, 
named above. In his declining years he 
made his home with his daughter, Mrs. 
Smith, who tenderly cared for him ; here he 
passed away from earth. There are in all 
thirty grandchildren of his family. 



Wirt, Charles L., harness maker, was 
born at Linglestown, Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. He is a son of Jeremiah 
and Hannah (Forney) Wirt. His parents 
had eight children, two were twins and died 
in infancy. The living children are : Sarah, 
wife of David Smeltzer; Lizzie, wife of Dan- 
iel Longenecker; Charles L. ; Katie, wife of 
Alfred Enders ; Susan, wife of William 
Muenich, and John F. Mr. Jeremiah Wirt 
was drowned at Harrisburg, in Paxton creek, 
July 4, 1873, aged forty-three years ; Mrs. 
Wirt died in Julj r , 1893, aged sixty-three years. 

Charles L. Wirt was educated in the com- 
mon schools of Lower Paxton township. At 
the age of seventeen he began an apprentice- 
ship of three years at harness making with 
John Good, at Progress. He afterwards 
worked one year as journeyman, and then 
began business for himself, succeeding his 
former master and employer. He was for 
two years at Progress and then removed to 
Penbrook, where he conducts a large and 
profitable business. Being enterprising and 
reliable, he not only meets with success, but 
enjoys the respect and esteem of his patrons 
and neighbors. 

He was married, July 30, 1890, to Lula, 
daughter of Henry and Mary Sherk. Their 
children are: Emma Sherk and Lydia For- 
ney. Mr. Wirt is an active and efficient 
member of the board of health of Penbrook. 
He has served one term as borough auditor, 
and also as election inspector. He is a 
staunch Republican. He and his family 
are members of the Church of God. 

Mrs. Wirt's parents had six children; those 
deceased are : Emma E., wife of Noah Wal- 
mer, and William H. The living children 
are: Mary E., Henry A., and Lula, Mrs. 
Wirt. 



Mader, Daniel E., gardening farmer, 
was born in Lower Paxton township in 
1842. His parents, Amos and Elizabeth 
(Zarker) Mader, had seven children, two of 
whom are deceased; Susan, who died in in- 
fancy, and Mary Ann, wife of Samuel Cas- 
sel. Their living children are: Daniel E.; 



Benjamin; Harriet, wife of Hiram Wilt; 
William H., and Catherine, wife of Andrew 
Poffenberger. Daniel E. Mader was edu- 
cated in the public schools of Lower Paxton 
township. After leaving school he began 
business for himself as a gardener and 
farmer, and has thus been occupied up to 
the present time. 

He was married at the age of twenty-one, 
December 13, 1862, to Fannie, daughter of 
Jacob and Rebecca (Young) Warner. They 
have had ten children; four are deceased: 
David, born March 9, 1866, died July 13, 
1866; Clara, born August 3, 1875, died 
January 21, 1876; Eddie, born August 26, 
1884, died September 12, 1884, and one in- 
fant unnamed. Their living children are : 
William, born June 8, 1S67 ; Henry, born 
September 3, 1869 ; Elizabeth, born July 4, 
1872 ; Cora, born September 16, 1877 ; Lydia, 
born May 1, 1887, and Emmet, June 8, 
1889. 

Mr. Mader lias served as road supervisor 
of Susquehanna township for two terms. He 
is a staunch Republican. He and his family 
are members of the United Brethren church. 
He is consistent and earnest in his Christian 
life and fills the full measure of good citi- 
zenship. In social life he is agreeable and 
popular, and is an embodiment of the do- 
mestic virtues. 

Jacob and Rebecca (Young) Warner, the 
parents of Mrs. Mader, had a family of nine 
children. Four are deceased : Jacob, died 
aged two years ; John, had served in the 
army, and after the war went West and is 
supposed to be dead ; William, died at the 
age of fifty-four, and Sarah, who died aged 
forty four. Their surviving children are: 
Samuel ; Christian, who resides in Missouri; 
Elizabeth, wife of John Blessley, of Lebanon 
county; David, who resides at Penbrook, 
Pa., and Fannie, who is Mrs. D. E. Mader. 

Houck, George A., dealer in agricultural 
implements, Penbrook, Pa., was born in 
Lower Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. He is a son of Amos and Elizabeth 
(Shirk) Houck, both living at this writing. 
They had three children, one of whom, Fi- 
delia, died aged nineteen. The surviving 
children are Henry Oliver and George A. 

George A. Houck was educated in the 
public schools of Lower Paxton township, 
and after leaving school worked on the farm 
with his father until he was twenty-two 
years old. He then began farming for him- 



960 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



self, and made it his sole occupation for five 
years. Later he engaged in. the dairy busi- 
ness, which he conducted for about two years. 
For the ensuing two years he was in the em- 
ployment of Robert B. Mateer, of Harris- 
burg, dealer in hardware. He then removed 
to Penbrook, Pa., and opened aj store on his 
own account, which he has managed since 
that time. He deals in general hardware, 
and is specially engaged in the sale of agri- 
cultural implements. 

He was married at the age of twenty-two, 
on October 17, 1880, to Minnie J., daughter 
of Jonas and Maria Crum. They have tw r o 
children, Harry Edward and Russel Amos. 

At the present time Mr. Houck is a mem- 
ber of the school board of Penbrook. He 
is a staunch Republican. He and his family 
attend the Lutheran church at Penbrook. 
His religion is of the practical kind. In 
business he is enterprising and energetic, 
and keeps in the lead. He is public spirited 
and social, and in all relations faithful and 
just. Jonas and Maria Crum, Mrs. Houck's 
parents, are both living. Their children are: 
Minnie J., who is Mrs. Houck ; Emma, wife 
of Alfred Hoostick ; and Edward. 



Hargest, John James, gardening farmer, 
was born in Baltimore county, near Balti- 
more, Md. He is a son of William E. and 
Rachel A. (Taylor) Hargest. William Har- 
gest died November 11, 1872, aged fifty-two 
years and three months. His wife is still 
living, and resides in Harrisburg, Pa. They 
had eight children, five of whom are de- 
ceased : Henry G; William E.; Taylor Fill- 
more ; Mary, wife of Charles H. Kemp ; and 
Rose Alba, wife of Charles Raymond. Their 
living children are : John J., Jefferson S., 
and Thomas S. 

John James Hargest received his primary 
education in the public and private schools 
of Baltimore county, which he attended until 
he was twelve years old. His parents then 
removing to Newcastle county, Del., he at- 
tended the public schools of that county for 
two years ; then, removing with them to 
Harrisburg, he finished his studies in the 
public schools of that city. At the age of 
sixteen he entered the Quartermaster's de- 
partment, United States army, and was 
stationed at Stephenson's depot, near Win- 
chester, Va., for about nine months, after 
which he was discharged. He then returned 
to his home in Harrisburg, engaged in gar- 
dening and farming, in which he has ever 



since been occupied. For twenty-four years 
he owned and resided upon the island 
known as Bridge Island, which later was 
called Hargest Island. In October, 1889, 
he sold this island and located in Susque- 
hanna township, where he has since been a 
continuous resident. 

He was married at the age of twenty 
years, in May, 1869, to Susan E., daughter 
of David and Sarah Zarker. They have had 
five children, one of whom, John Herman, 
died at the age of four months. Their living 
children are: Mary K., Catherine B., Bessie 
M., and Jennie R. Mrs. Hargest died Feb- 
ruary 2, 1880. Mr. Hargest was again mar- 
ried, to Mar} r K., daughter of George and 
Jane E. Whiteman. They have had six 
children, two of whom are deceased : Clara 
V., born June 15, 1893, died August 28, 
1894, and Thomas J., born August 27, 1894, 
died September 16, 1894. Their living 
children are: George W., Rachel T., Helen 
B., and John J. 

Mr. Hargest is a staunch Republican. 
He served with efficiency and credit in the 
city council of Harrisburg, and was the 
president of that body for the year 1881. 
He is now a member of the school board of 
Susquehanna township. He belongs to 
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. M., at 
Harrisburg ; he was a member of Persever- 
ance Chapter and Pilgrim Commandery. 
Mr. Hargest and his family are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal church. He is suc- 
cessful in business and enjoys the good will 
and confidence of his neighbors. 

George and Jane E. (Harman) Whiteman, 
parents of Mrs. Hargest, had five children : 
Mary K., Jacob N., George W., Charles C, 
and Edna H. 



Hargest, Jefferson S., gardening farmer, 
was born at Wilmington, Del., August 25, 
1860. He is a son of William E. and Rachel 
A. Hargest. His parents removed to Har- 
risburg when he was five years of age, and 
he was educated in the public and private 
schools of that city. At eighteen years of 
age he began gardening and farming, and 
has been continuously engaged in those oc- 
cupations up to the present time. 

He was married at the age of twenty-two, 
April 2, 1882, to Clara Reese, daughter of 
Richard and Elizabeth Reese. They had no 
children. His wife died April 25, 1895. She 
was a consistent and earnest Christian woman. 
Her home was attractive and always shone 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



961 



with the light of a warm and generous hos- 
pitality. By her many virtues she drew 
around her a circle of devoted friends and 
admirers who deeply mourn her loss. Her 
parents had seven children, five of whom are 
deceased : Clara, Mrs. Hargest ; Mattie, wife 
of Jacob Whiteman ; Maggie, and two chil- 
dren who died in infancy. The surviving 
children are Harry and Jennie. Mr. Har- 
gest is a staunch Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. As 
a business man he is characterized by strict 
integrity, industry and enterprise. He is 
genial in social life, interested in church 
matters, and prompt and faithful in the per- 
formance of duty. 



Moody, Washington, gardening farmer, 
was born in Washington township, York 
count}', Pa., in 1839. He is a son of Thomas 
and Elizabeth Moody. They had seven 
children, all boys ; one of them, Thomas, 
died aged about twenty-six years. Those 
living are: William, Henry, David, James, 
John, and Washington. The father died at 
the age of eighty, and the mother four years 
later, aged seventy years. 

Washington Moody was educated in the 
public schools of his native township. After 
leaving school he was for ten years engaged 
in farming and then added gardening. In 
1865 he removed to Dauphin county and lo- 
cated on Sheesley's Island, where he pur- 
sued his vocation of gardening and farming. 
He subsequently removed to Susquehanna 
township, and in 1875 purchased his present 
homestead, where he continues to conduct 
the same business. 

On February 24, 1864, Mr. Moody was 
married to Adeline E., daughter of John and 
Sarah Fleisher. They had ten children, 
three of whom are deceased : George Wash- 
ington, died August 8, 1871, aged four years 
and thirteen da) r s ; Albert, January 8, 1875, 
aged three days; Annie Margarette, Feb- 
ruary 3, 1882, aged four years and three 
months. The living children are : Sallie 
Florence, wife of Samuel Bankes, born Jan- 
uary 2, 1865 ; William Henry, November 
29,1868; Ada Elizabeth, born August 25, 
1870; Mary Catherine, February 5, 1872; 
Charles Wesley, born August 20, 1874 ; Re- 
becca Jane, June 10, 1880; Miriam, June 18, 
1884. 

Mr. Moody is a staunch Democrat. He 
and his family are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal church. Mr. Moody has been 



diligent in business, and as the result of his 
skill, energy and industry he stands in the 
lead of men in his line of business. He is a 
reliable and worthy man and has been true 
to all the obligations of duty. 

Mrs. Moody's parents, John and Sarah 
Fleisher, had four children, one of whom, 
William, went West in 1865 and is supposed 
to have died. Their surviving children are : 
Milton, John, and Adeline E., Mrs. Moody. 
The father died at the age of thirty years ; 
the mother is still living. 



Hummel, Samuel Wesley, gardener and 
farmer, was born in Halifax township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., February 17, 1837. He is 
a son of Samuel and Catherine (Bowman) 
Hummel. They had seven children, of 
whom two died in infancy ; Joseph died at 
Harrisburg, aged about thirty; and George 
died at the age of seventeen years. The 
surviving children are: Samuel W.; Susan, 
wife of Sampson Bogner, of Steelton; and 
John F., residing in Dauphin county. Sam- 
uel Hummel died in 1867, aged fifty-nine; 
his wife died at the age of thirty-two. 

Samuel Wesley Hummel was educated in 
the district schools of his native township. 
After leaving school he was variously em- 
ployed until the spring of 1866, when he 
removed to Susquehanna township, and en- 
gaged in gardening and farming ; he has 
ever since resided in the vicinity of Harris- 
burg and carried on the same business. 
Mr. Hummel has served as judge of elections, 
and as election inspector. He is a staunch 
Democrat. He and his family are members 
of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is 
prominent and successful in his line of busi- 
ness, is regarded as a good citizen, and is 
faithful and agreeable in all the relations of 
life. 

He was married, September 19, 1865, to 
Catherine, daughter of Jacob and Catherine 
Huggins. They have seven children : Cora 
L., born January 27, 1866, wife of Henry 
Reichert ; Ida May, October 17, 1867 ; Jacob 
L., Mav 28, 1870 ; Susan L., November 4, 
1872 ; Katie Alice, April 30, 1875 ; Anna 
Mary, February 3, 1878 ; and John W., April 
20, 1881. 

Jacob and Catherine (Deckard) Huggins, 
the parents of Mrs. Hummel, had eleven 
children". Four are deceased. The survi- 
vors are : Mary, wife of Samuel Bowers, of 
Harrisburg ; Susan, wife of John Thompson ; 
Charles ; Ellen ; Alice, wife of Edward Gil- 



962 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Ian, of Harrisburg; Catherine, Mrs. Hum- 
mel ; and Jacob. Mr. Huggins died at 
about eight)' years of age; his wife is still 
living. 

Berry, Robert, gardener and dairyman, 
was born in Dumfries, Dumfriesshire, Scot- 
land, July 27, 1862; son of William and 
Sarah Ann (McCullough) Berry. His parents 
had three children ; one of them, Mary, died 
March, 1879, aged eighteen. The surviving 
children are Robert and John ; the latter 
resides on the homestead in Scotland, the 
parents having their home with him. 

Robert Berry was educated in the schools 
of his native town. He was a bright and 
ambitious boy, full of energy, and made the 
best use of the advantages within his reach. 
At the age of seventeen he was well qualified 
for ordinary business. His first employment 
after leaving school was farming. But, find- 
ing that his home did not offer him the op- 
portunities which he sought for business 
and for rising in the world, he looked to the 
newer countries of the Western Continent as 
affording a wider field for his activities. In 
1881 he embarked for America, and landed 
in New York July 4. He was attracted to 
Chicago, 111., where he engaged in the cattle 
business. After trying various occupations 
he finally settled in Dauphin county, Pa., in 
the spring of 1889, and engaged in farming 
and gardening, in connection with the dairy 
and milk business; in these occupations he 
has continued up to the present time. With 
his natural energy and his enterprising and 
progressive spirit, he has found success within 
his reach. He already stands among the 
leaders in his line, and commands the respect 
of his neighbors. 



Stutsman, John P., freight conductor, 
was born in Perry county, Pa., July 26, 1847. 
His father was a carpenter, contractor 
and builder. He was cut off in early life, 
dying at the age of twenty-nine years; his 
wife, who was Miss Mary D. Poole, is still 
living, and makes her home with her daugh- 
ter Mary, wife of William Huston, of Har- 
risburg. Their children were five in num- 
ber; the living ones are John P., David, 
and Anna, widow of Cyrus Lowe. 

John P. Stutsman was only eight years 
old when his father died. His schooling 
was just begun, and after this sad loss 
had to be carried on amid many hin- 
derances. While attending school he found 



time to do many odd jobs, by which he 
aided materially in the maintenance of his 
mother and the other children. At sixteen 
he found regular employment on the North- 
ern Central railroad, and has been con- 
tinuously in the employ of the Pennsylvania 
railroad since that time. All his wages, 
during his youth, were turned over to his 
mother, for whom he cherished the fondest 
regard ; and he was rewarded by her love 
and confidence. In this way a peculiar in- 
timacy was established between mother and 
son, which has continued through life. He 
is one of the oldest employees in this capa- 
city in the service of the railroad company. 
His long continuance in their employment 
and confidence demonstrates his ability and 
faithfulness. 

He was married, December 24, 1871, to 
Jane E. Rudge. They have five children, 
two of whom are deceased : Myrtle A., born 
December 1, 1872, died May 1, 1873 ; Jonas 
R., born in November, 1875, was drowned 
while bathing in the old Price basin at Har- 
risburg, August 7, 1882 ; his brother James, 
who was with him, was not able to render 
him any assistance. The living children 
are : James 0., Catherine L., and John L. 
Mr. Stutsman resided in Harrisburg until 
1894, when he purchased his present resi- 
dence in Susquehanna township. He is a 
member of Lodge No. 160, I. 0. 0. F., Har- 
risburg. Politically he is a Democrat. He 
and his family are members of the Presby- 
terian church. 

Mrs. Stutsman's parents are both deceased. 
Her father died June 14, 1879, aged seventy- 
three; her mother in June, 1881, aged 
eighty years. They had eight children, one 
of whom, Edward, was in the Union army, 
in company B, Eighty-seventh Pennsylva- 
nia volunteers. He was taken prisoner and 
died of starvation in Andersonville prison. 
Their surviving children are: Adam, David 
K., Darius, Annie, widow of George Neuer, 
William, Jonas, and JaneE., Mrs. Stutsman. 



Holtzman, Harry B., dairyman and 
farmer, was born at Matamoras, Dauphin 
county, Pa., August 28, 1858. He is a son of 
Isaac and Annie (Hocken) Holtzman. Isaac 
Holtzman was born August 31, 1832 ; his 
wife, Annie Hocken, February 20, 1835. They 
had seven children : John S., born February 
11, 1854 ; George, June 10, 1856, died Sep- 
tember 6, 1858 ; Henry B., August 28, 1858 ; 
Joseph M, September 8, 1860; Andrew J. } 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



963 



December 22, 1865 ; Oscar J., November 27, 
1872, and Anna M., January 24, 1880. Both 
the father and the mother are deceased ; the 
latter died October 9, 1890. They were con- 
sistent Christians, dutiful and faithful in the 
home, in society, and in the church. 

Harry B. Holtzman was educated in the 
public schools of Susquehanna township and 
attended an academy in Harrisburg for one 
term. He selected the dairy and farm busi- 
ness as his vocation, and has no cause for re- 
penting his choice, having met with satisfac- 
tion and success. 

At the age of twenty-seven he bethought 
him of the error of his way of living and 
abandoned the ranks of the bachelors. On 
February 9, 1886, he married Anna A., daugh- 
ter of Harry F. and Catherine S. (Harter) 
Long. They had four children : Ruth E., 
born October 17, 1887 ; Edna J., June 5, 1890 ; 
Edith May, August 10, 1891 ; Earl Harry, 
May 3, 1893. Mr. Holtzman is a Prohibi- 
tionist. He and his family are members of 
the United Brethren church. 

Mrs. Holtzman's parents, Harry F. and 
Catherine S. Long, have had nine children : 
Three are deceased : Albert, died in infancy; 
Addie L., and one infant unnamed. The sur- 
viving children are : Annie A., Effie Irene, 
Bessie, Harvey H., Olive B., and Reese. 
Both parents are living and reside in Perry 
county, Pa. 

Walter, John S., dairyman and farmer' 
was born in Deny township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., February 23, 1843. He is a son 
of Henry L. and Elizabeth (Shaeffer) Walter. 
They had four children : Susan, wife of 
Henry Angst ; John S.; Joseph ; and Mary, 
wife of Eli Fackler. The mother died Sep- 
tember 18, 1878; the father in December, 
1880, or January, 1881. 

John S.Walter attended the public schools 
of South Hanover township, and also the 
academy at Palmyra, Pa., under Professor 
Witmer. 

He was married, August 16, 1868, to Louisa 
Ann, daughter of Peter and Susan (Bren- 
eman) Hoerner. They have had thirteen 
children, three of whom have died : Ida, an 
infant ; Peter, aged six months ; and David, 
eight days old. The surviving children are: 
Ellen, born November 5, 1870 ; Elizabeth, 
July 29, 1871; John Henry, January 22, 
1873; Susanna, May 3, 1876; Agnes, August 
17, 1878; Ephraim, September 7, 1880; 
Sarah, December 31, 1882 ; Anna May, Oc- 



tober 3, 1885 ; Harrison, July 2, 1888 ; Edith 
Irene, July 29, 1893. 

For twenty-four years after his marriage 
Mr. Walter was engaged in farming and in 
running a grist and saw mill in Lower Pax- 
ton township. In 1894 he removed to his 
present homestead, and engaged in garden- 
ing, in connection with which he conducted 
a dairy. To these branches of business he is 
now giving his attention, with gratifying re- 
sults. 

Mr. Walter has served efficiently as tax 
collector of Lower Paxton township for one 
term. He also served seven years as school 
director in the same township. He is a 
staunch Republican. He and his family are 
members of the Lutheran church at Pen- 
brook. 

Mr. and Mrs. Hoerner, the parents of Mrs. 
Walter, had seven children, two of whom 
are deceased, John and Christopher. The 
remaining children are : Barbara, wife of 
Frederick Rhoad; Louisa Ann, Mrs.Walter ; 
Henry; William; and Elizabeth, wife of 
Levi Hagbaker. Both parents are living. 



Hoak, George J., dairyman and farmer, 
was born in Susquehanna township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., May 4, 1846. He is a son 
of Andrew and Lucetta (Wagner) Hoak. 

He was educated in the public schools of 
his native township. At the age of fifteen 
he was already engaged in farming, when 
the late war broke out. Prompted by 
patriotism, he enlisted in company B, Two 
Hundred and First regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, under Captain McCarroll and 
Colonel Awl. He was sent with his com- 
pany through the Cumberland Valley to 
Camp Slough. At that place he suffered 
innocently the abuse of one of his suj)eriors, 
the result of force of circumstances. He was 
sent with his company to Baltimore, Md., 
thence to Washington, D. O, and thence to 
A lexandria, Va. Here he was confined in the 
military hospital for four months, and later 
in the regimental hospital. After dismissal 
from the hospital he returned to his regi- 
ment, and was sent to Philadelphia, then to . 
Fort Delaware, and then to Harrisburg, 
where he was honorably discharged, June 21, 
1865. He has since suffered from a chronic 
spinal affection to such a degree as to unfit 
him for any physical exertion. 

He was married, March 11,1875, to Katie, 
daughter of Joseph and Sophia (Cassel) Wert, 
born October 16, 1352. They have had three 



964 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



children, one of whom, Emma, died January 
7, 1879, aged five months. The living chil- 
dren are Cora Sophia and Jennie Lucetta. 
Mrs. Hoak died December 14, 1878. On 
March 27, 1881, Mr. Hoak was' married to 
Clara Fisler. They have six children: 
Charles A., Blanche J., John A., Annie W., 
Ralph A., and Margaret H. Mr. Hoak is a 
staunch Republican. He and his family 
attend the Reformed church. 

The parents of Clara Fisler Hoak had 
eight children, of whom four are deceased : 
Charles H., died aged eleven years ; Sarah 
H., aged two months ; Maud J., one month 
and twenty-eight days; and Jennie, aged 
seven years. Their surviving children are : 
Calvin J. ; Lizzie M., wife of William Bow- 
man ; Clara, Mrs. Hoak ; and Minnie F., 
wife of Harry Alleman. The mother died 
August 24, 1894, aged sixty-three years, ten 
months and eleven days. The father is still 
living. 



Frank, James, farmer, was born in Hali- 
fax township, Dauphin county, Pa,, in 1856. 
He is a son of Jacob and Catherine (Whit- 
man) Frank. They had six children,' of 
whom David and Henry are deceased. Those 
living are: Barbara, widow of John H. 
Yiengst, wdio had two children; James; 
Sarah, wife of William G. Gier, and Fred- 
erick. 

James Frank was educated in the district 
schools of Halifax township. He then worked 
on his father's farm until he was twenty- 
three years of age. He then engaged 
in farming on his own account, and has 
made this his occupation since that time. 
He resided up to 1878 in his native town- 
ship ; he then removed to Middle Paxton 
township, and after a residence of one year 
to Lower Paxton township. After residing 
there eight years he removed to Susque- 
hanna township, and located on the farm 
owned hy Alfred Cruni, where he has since 
conducted his farming operations. 

He was married, October 24, 1885, to Mary, 
daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Blessing. 
They have had two children, Harvey D. and 
William. In political views Mr. Frank is 
Democratic. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the Reformed church. Mr. Frank is 
a successful farmer, because he is full of en- 
ergy and enterprise, and carries on his work 
with unflagging industry and by intelligent 
methods. Better than success is the good 
name and good will won from his neighbors 



by his upright character and friendly dis- 
position. 

Jacob and Elizabeth (Landis) Blessing 
had nine children : Mary, Mrs. Frank ; John ; 
Elizabeth, wife of Ira Hoover; Elmer; 
Agnes, wife of James Ensinger ; Levi, Clara, 
Alice, and Amanda. The mother died April 
14, 1887. The father is still living;. 



Meckley, Jacob, retired farmer, was born 
in Londonderry township, in 1830. He is a 
son of John and Catherine (Hoover) Meck- 
ley. Four of the ten children of these par- 
ents are deceased ; those surviving are : Jacob ; 
Catherine, wife of John Dunn ; Leah, wife of 
Daniel Siegler ; Joseph ; Michael ; and Bar- 
bara, wife of Amos Young. 

Jacob Meckley received his education in 
subscription schools and later in the public 
schools of Londondeny, Deny, and Lower 
Paxton townships. He learned carpentry 
with Jacob Breneman, at Union Deposit, 
West Hanover township, serving an appren- 
ticeship of two years. His pay was $5 per 
month. The third year he worked as a jour- 
neyman and received $10 per month ; after 
the third year he received seventy-five cents 
per day and board. In 1860 he engaged in 
farming near the village of Progress, where 
he remained four years. The following six 
years he spent on the farm of James E. 
Elder, near the county buildings. After 
passing eight j r ears on the Hoffer farm near 
Highspire, Swatara township, he returned to 
Susquehanna township. In 1891 he pur- 
chased and removed to the homestead on 
which he has made his residence since that 
date. 

He was married, December 20, 1855, to 
Elizabeth, daughter of Christian and Annie 
Brubaker. They have had ten children, six 
of whom are living : Annie L., born October 
4, 1856 ; Christian M., August 6, 1858 ; Cathe- 
rine B., May 2, 1860 ; Samuel J., February 
29, 1863 ; Benjamin F., March 31, 1870, and 
Edwin A., January 18, 1873. Their deceased 
children are : Jacob Henry, died January 10, 
1862, aged one month and fourteen days; 
Elizabeth Mary, August IS, 1865, aged eleven 
months and twenty-five clays; David Bru- 
baker, July 19, 1868, aged seven months and 
seven days; John W., born November 10, 
1865, died January 9, 1893, near Freetown, 
Sierra Leone, West Africa, at Mahera Station. 
He was sent to this mission station from 
Colon, Neb., under the auspices of the Chris- 
tian Alliance and Foreign Mission Associa- 



DAUPHIN COUNT!. 



965 



tion, of which the celebrated evangelist, 
Moody, was the head. He was married, Feb- 
ruary 16, 1892, to June 0., daughter of Mrs. 
S. M. Schofield, of Colon, Neb. He and his 
young wife were both earnest and devoted 
Christian workers, and gave themselves to 
the noble and self-sacrificing work of carry- 
ing the gospel to the heathen. Soon after 
reaching the field of labor assigned to them 
in Africa, and before they had become accli- 
mated to the extreme heat and other adverse 
conditions of those regions, they were stricken 
with a malignant fever that proved fatal to 
both. They died on the same day, and are 
buried in that far-away land. 

The parents of Mrs. Meckley are both de- 
ceased. Her father was born September 20, 
1798, and died August 25, 1873 ; her mother 
was born November 17, 1798, and died July 
27, 1871. They had eight children, of whom 
five are living : Christian, Elizabeth, Michael, 
Mary, and David. The deceased children 
are: Anna, wife of Christian Fortney; Bar- 
bara, wife of Solomon Manley, and Fannie, 
wife of Conrad Page. 

Mr. Meckley served efficiently for two 
years as road supervisor in Swatara town- 
ship. In politics he is identified with the 
[Republican party. He and his family are 
members of the Church of the Brethren in 
Christ, or River Brethren. 



Schlosser, Andrew, dairyman and 
farmer, was born in Lower Paxton town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., January 19, 1861. 
He is a son of George and Catherine 
(Mountz) Schlosser, both natives of Europe. 
His father was born in Alsace, France, and 
his mother in the town of Willaugha, in 
Wurtemberg, Germany. They were mar- 
ried in Lower Paxton township March 19, 
1857. They had six children, four of whom 
are living : David, Andrew, Joseph, and 
Emma Jane, wife of Charles Spees. Those 
deceased are : Clara, died aged fourteen 
years, nine months and eighteen days ; 
and Sarah Jane, aged two years and five 
months. The father died September 12, 
1893, and the mother is still living. 

Andrew Schlosser took the usual course 
of study in the public schools of Lower 
Paxton and Susquehanna townships. At 
the age of nineteen he was apprenticed to 
Reuben Morret, of Harrisburg, to learn 
carpentry, and served two years. After 
finishing his apprenticeship and attaining 
his majority he concluded to choose an- 



other occupation. He went upon the farm, 
and has since been continuously engaged 
in agricultural pursuits. 

He was married, December 5, 1885, to 
Phoebe A., daughter of Montgomery and 
Mary A. (Yeager) Hughes. They have 
three children: Clara May, born January 
22, 1886 ; Alice Pearl, June 19, 1887, and 
Rella May, January 26, 1893, died August 
17, 1893. 

Mr. Schlosser has served as election in- 
spector for one year in the South precinct of 
Susquehanna township. He is a Democrat. 
He belongs to Castle, No. 250, K. of G. E., 
at Harrisburg. He and his family are 
members of the Lutheran church. 



Hiester, A. 0., son of Gabriel and Mary 
(Otto) Hiester, was born at Reading, Pa., 
November 11, 1808. His father, Gen. Ga- 
briel Hiester, was an officer in the war of 
1812, and removed to Harrisburg in 1813 
to become surveyor general of Pennsylvania. 
At twelve years of age A. O. Hiester was 
sent to Downingtown Academy, then in 
charge of Joshua Hoopes, a Hicksite Friend ; 
he was afterwards placed under the care of 
Rev. Mr. Ernst, a Lutheran pastor at Lebanon, 
Pa., and prepared for college by that gentle- 
man and Mr. A. E. Shulze, son of ex-Gover- 
nor Shulze. In 1824 he entered Dickinson 
College, and graduated in 1828. He was 
afterwards for many years a trustee of the 
college. After his graduation Mr. Hiester 
spent a year studying law, in the office of 
Judge Krause ; at the end of that time find- 
ing the study uncongenial, he abandoned it 
and spent six months at Huntingdon Forge, 
which was owned by Dr. Shoenberger, and 
the following six months with Reuben Trex- 
ler, at Long Swamp Furnace, in Berks 
county. 

About this time Mr. Hiester was elected a 
delegate, with Dr. E. W. Roberts, to an in- 
fant school convention held in Washington, 
D. C. He traveled there in an old-fashioned 
gig and dined with Henry Clay on the da}' 
before the convention met. 

In 1830-31, Mr. Hiester, then residing in 
Harrisburg, assisted in the erection of the 
rolling mills at the mouth of the Conedo- 
guinet creek, when his father, in partner- 
ship with Norman Cullender, built a large 
boiler plate and bar iron mill. He took an 
active part in the management of the busi- 
ness until 1836, during the most disastrous 
period, financially, that the ironmasters of 



966 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



the United States have ever known. In that 
year he leased the mill to Jared Pratt, re- 
moved to Harrisburg, spent a year there in 
settling up his iron business and then re- 
moved to Estherton Farm. In 1838 he was 
elected justice of the peace. His experience 
in that capacit}' furnishes an excellent illus- 
tration of the primitive, frontier-like condi- 
tion of many rural neighborhoods at that 
date. The favorite amusements of old and 
young were raffling and throwing dice for 
turkeys, ducks, and geese, gambling and 
horse racing. Fights at singing schools and 
disturbances of religious meetings were fre- 
quent. Horse stealing was common. To 
remedy this Mr. Hiester and four of his 
neighbors organized a society, which rapidly 
increased in number, and was carried on 
under his presidency until its object was 
accomplished. By his strict and impartial 
administration of the law he succeeded in 
correcting the abuses that had existed, and 
materially improving the state of society 
within the limits of his jurisdiction. 

Mr. Hiester was for many years a director 
of the Branch Bank of Pennsylvania, until 
it was closed. He was a director of the 
old Harrisburg Bank until it was changed, 
and continued for years after on the board 
of directors of the Harrisburg National 
Bank. In 1851 he was appointed associate 
judge by Governor Johnston, to fill a va- 
cancy occasioned by death, and was twice 
subsequently elected to the same office by 
the people, for terms of five years each. In 
1861, under an act of the Legislature, he 
was appointed one of three commissioners 
by the Dauphin county court to hear testi- 
mony and report their opinion of the dam- 
ages sustained by individuals consequent 
upon Stuart's raid through the counties of 
Fulton, Franklin and Adams. The other 
members of the commission were Col. James 
Worrall and a gentleman from Lebanon 
county. They elected Mr. Hiester chairman. 
He was also chairman of the committee of 
arrangements of the first State Fair, held at 
Harrisburg in 1851. He was one of five 
commissioners, the others being Judge 
Watts, Judge Miles, H. N. McAllis, and Mr. 
Walker, to select a location for the State 
Agricultural College. After it was finished he 
was annually elected a trustee for about 
fifteen years. His son Gabriel, a graduate 
of the college, has taken his place upon the 
board of trustees. He was also for four years 
secretary of the State Agricultural Society, 



and for six years a trustee of the State Luna- 
tic Hospital. Mr. Hiester was among the 
first subscribers to the Harrisburg Cotton 
Factory ; the Harrisburg Car Works, of 
which he was a director ; of the Harrisburg 
Street Passenger railroad, of which he was 
president ; and of the Fort Hunter Road 
Commission, of which he was secretary and 
treasurer from the time of its organization. 
Besides superintending the affairs of his 
own he was executor for a number of valua- 
ble estates, and frequently acted as trustee, 
guardian and assignee. 

In 1845 Mr. Hiester joined the Methodist 
Episcopal church, and was one of the found- 
ers of the society at Coxestown. From that 
time to the time of his death he held, unin- 
terruptedly, the positions of class leader, 
superintendent of the Sunday-school, and 
treasurer of the -board of trustees. For 
many years he was president of the Dauphin 
County Bible Society, and was president of 
the Dauphin County Sunday-school Associa- 
tion from the time of its founding. He was 
probably more widely and better known on 
account of his church work than in any 
other capacitj'. 

Mr. Hiester's marriage to Miss Catherine 
M., daughter of John B. Cox, took place in 
1835. He died May 6, 1895, at his resi- 
dence, Estherton. 



Bowman, William, farmer, was born in 
1855. He is a son of Christian and Eliza- 
beth Brightbill Bowman. His parents had 
a family of nine children, two of whom, 
Andrew and Theophilus, have passed away. 
The surviving ones are: Henry; John; 
Mary, wife of Jacob Fisher ; Susan, wife of 
Jacob Hain ; William ; Margaret, wife of Geo. 
Machen; Laura, wife of David Hain. Will- 
iam received his education in the public 
schools of Susquehanna township, and after 
leaving school engaged in farming, and has 
continued that occupation up to the present 
time. He was married, September 1, 1879, 
to Lizzie M. Fisler, daughter of Amos and 
Harriet Fisler. Their children are Jennie 
and William, Jr. In politics Mr. Bowman 
is a Pepublican, and is also a member of 
Council No. 398, Jr. 0. IT. A. M. The 
family attend the Lutheran church. 



Bowman, Christian, farmer, was born in 
Penn township, Cumberland county, August 
8, 1824. He is a son of Christian and Mary 
(Moulder) Bowman. The father died at the 



DA UPHIN COUNTY. 



96? 



age of ninety-three years and the mother at 
the age of sixty-six years. Their children 
are : Mollie, wife of John Longenecker; 
John, Samuel, Annie, and Christian. Chris- 
tian received his education in the subscrip- 
tion schools of Cumberland and in the pub- 
lic schools of Dauphin county. Since he 
left school he has been engaged continuously 
at farming. He was married, October 12, 
1847, to Elizabeth Brightbill. Their chil- 
dren are : Theophilus and Andrew, both de- 
ceased ; Henry ; John ; Mary E., wife of 
Jacob Fisher; Susan L.,wife of Jacob Hain; 
William ; Margaret, wife of George Macheu; 
and Laura K., wife of David Hain. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican, and has served for 
six years as school director and three years 
director of the poor. The family belong to 
the German Reformed church. 



Bender, Hamilton, gardener and farmer, 
was born in Susquehanna township. He is a 
son of David and Mary Rineard Bender. The 
father died September, 1877, and the mother 
is living. Their children are: Henry ; Ham- 
ilton ; Caroline, wife of Jeremiah Hummel; 
Daniel ; David, deceased, and also one child 
who died in infancy. Hamilton received 
his education in the public schools of Sus- 
quehanna township and then engaged in 
gardening and farming at which he has con- 
tinued until the present time. At the age 
of twenty-one years he married Miss Anna 
E. Reichart, daughter of Henry Reichart. 
Their children are : Emma, Margaret, David. 
Daniel, and Hamilton K., deceased. In poli- 
tics he is a staunch Democrat. The family are 
members of the German Lutheran church. 



Crum, Alfred, retired farmer, Penbrook, 
was born in Lower Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., in 1850. He is a son of 
Joseph and Rebecca Pottiger. The father 
died September 21, 1884, and the mother 
March 20, 1888. Their children are : Eliza, 
deceased, wife of John Reim ; Jonas ; Mary, 
wife of Ephraim Cassel ; Thomas, and Alfred. 
Mrs. Cram's father died July 25, 1886, and 
her mother October 14, 1893. They had a 
family of five children, of whom Mary D. 
alone survives. Alfred received his educa- 
tion in the schools of Lower Paxton township 
and in the Linglestown Academy. After 
leaving school he engaged in farming with 
his father and continued until he was twenty- 
two years old, when he began farming for 
himself. He continued at this occupation 



until the spring of 1888, when he moved to 
his present residence in Penbrook. 

He was married, September 5, 1872, to 
Miss Mary D. Rudy, daughter of Frederick 
and Maria Rudy. Their children are : 
Beckie, wife of William Myers, of Penbrook, 
and Ida M. In politics Mr. Crum is a Re- 
publican and has served as judge of elections 
and is now serving as town councilman of 
Penbrook. The family are members of the 
German Lutheran church. 



Garman, John, farmer, was born at his 
present home, January 3, 1820. He is a son 
of John and Catharine Wollaner Garman. 
The father died August 6, 1846, and the 
mother March 11, 1857. Their children are : 
John; Mary, wife of John Stess ; Sarah, wife 
of David Alter ; and Susan, wife of Noah 
Hartzer, of Juniata county. John received 
his education in the schools of his native 
place. He then engaged in farming with 
his father, and continued in that occupation 
up to 1877, when he moved to Harrisburg, 
and engaged in the mercantile business for 
six years. At this time he came to the old 
homestead, where he has since resided. He 
was married, January 18, 1843, to Miss 
Emma McKeekan, daughter of Robert and 
Mary McKeekan. Their children are : John; 
Wilhelmina, wife of Jeremiah Hanshaw; 
Emiline, wife of Andrew Cameron; James, 
Virdilla, Laura, and Robert, deceased. In 
politics Mr. Garman is a staunch Repub- 
lican. The family are members of the Lu- 
theran church. 



Hassler, Edwin 0., dairyman and farmer, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born in Lower Paxton 
township, September 4, 1843. He is a son of 
Samuel and Susan (Mum ma) Hassler. The 
father was born May 1, 1802, and died Octo- 
ber 30, 1870 ; and the mother was born Janu- 
ary 31, 1808, and died October 12, 1875. 
They had a family of thirteen children, five 
of whom have passed away : Emanuel A., 
born August 28, 1827 ; David, born August 
26, 1829, and died August 6, 1830 ; Cornelius, 
born July 1, 1836, and died in 1836; Mary, 
born in 1832, and died February 3, 1833; 
Samuel, born March 18, 1831, and died Janu- 
ary 6, 1887. The surviving ones are: Susanna, 
born January 2, 1834, widow of Abraham 
Miller ; Wilimina, born June 24, 1837, wife of 
Isaac Beinhower, of Oberlin; Elizabeth, born 
July 5, 1839, wife of John H. Kramer ; Catha- 
rine, born Jul} r 4, 1841, widow of Joseph 



968 



BIOGRAPHICAL EN CYCLOPEDIA 



Vogel, now wife of John Etter, of Cumber- 
land county ; Edwin 0.; Harriet, born De- 
cember 8, 1840, wife of Jonas Giell ; Elias M., 
born September 2, 1848, and Emma E., born 
December 26, 1850. The mother of Mrs. 
Hassler died November 5,1875; the father 
remarried and now resides in Missouri. They 
had a family of twelve children, seven of 
whom have passed away: Martin Luther, 
Robert, Morris Monroe, Charlotte, Roswell 
W., Jessie May, and Rollin Gale. The sur- 
viving ones are : Rebecca, Elizabeth, George, 
Joseph, and Jennie. 

Edwin received his education in the public 
schools of Lower Paxton and Susquehanna 
townships, and then assisted on his father's 
farm until he was twenty years old. In 1863 
he began to learn the trade of carpentry with 
Henry Shoop, at Harrisburg, from whom he 
received $50 per year for his services. After 
working at his trade six years he engaged in 
farming, first in Susquehanna and then in 
Lower Paxton township. In 1895 he moved 
to his present home. From January 23, 1865, 
to July 4 of the same year, he was with com- 
pany A, First division construction corps, and 
was located at various times in Georgia, Ala- 
bama, North Carolina, and Kentucky. He 
was married, March 5, 1868, to Miss Mary 
Felty, daughter of John D. and Susan Felty. 
Their children are: Edwin, deceased ; Sam- 
uel F., born September 28, 1868, and J. Elmer, 
born October 4, 1869. The son Samuel F. is 
a physician in Harrisburg. He received his 
primary education in the public schools of 
Lower Paxton township and then entered 
Lebanon Valley College, Annville, Pa. He 
then taught school five terms, and next at- 
tended college at Bloomsburg, Pa. Sep- 
tember 23, 1 891, he entered Jefferson Medi- 
cal College, of Philadelphia, from which in- 
stitution he graduated May 9, 1894. He also 
took a course at the Maternity Hospital, and 
attended the City Hospital, of Harrisburg, 
one year. 

Mr. Hassler's first wife was born Septem- 
ber 3, 1845, and died November 26, 1871. 
He was married, secondly, July 26, 1877, to 
Miss Rebecca Stover, daughter of Joseph A. 
and Elizabeth (Smeltzer) Stover. Their chil- 
dren are: Gertrude M., born April 6, 1878; 
Colin E., born April 3, 1879 ; Lottie J., born 
August 1, 1881 ; Emory 0., born October 31, 
1882; Charles Blaine, born August 23, 1884; 
Hilda E., born January 22, 1886; Frank 
Stanley, born August 2, 1887. Politically he 
is a Republican, and has served as school di- 



rector for three years. He is a member of 
Lamberton Lodge, No. 708, I. O. O. F., Har- 
risburg ; member of the Patrons of Hus- 
bandry, of Pennsylvania ; master of Dauphin 
County Grange, and a member of the Horti- 
cultural Society, of Pennsylvania. The family 
are members of the United Brethren church. 



Hoerner, Isaac R., hotel proprietor, Pro- 
gress, Pa., was born in South Hanover town- 
ship, January 25, 1845. He is a son of John 
and Mary Rauch Hoerner. The parents 
were members of the Lutheran church. The 
mother died September 12, 1892. Isaac R. 
received his early education in the public 
schools of his native place, and then attended 
White Hall Academy, Cumberland county, 
of which institution David Denhugh was 
principal, and Captain Vale, of Carlisle, 
instructor. From 1852 to 1864 Mr. Hoerner 
resided in Lebanon county. After complet- 
ing his education he engaged in farming for 
fifteen years. Next he entered the hotel busi- 
ness, and in 1887 also engaged in mercantile 
pursuits, which he has conducted very suc- 
cessfully in connection with his hotel. He 
was married, December 31, 1872, to Miss 
Anna M. Bitner, daughter of Joseph and 
Susan (Long) Bitner, of Washington county, 
Md. Their children are : Irene Idilla ; Mary 
Minerva, and I. Grant. Mr. Hoerner is a 
member of Lodge No. 629, I. O. 0. F. He 
was postmaster at Progress during President 
Cleveland's first administration. In politics 
he is a Republican. 

Their son, I. Grant Hoerner, is a bright 
young man. He is pursuing a course of 
study with a view to becoming a lawyer. He 
attended the college at Annville, Pa., for one 
term, and was graduated from Dickinson 
College, Carlisle, in the class of '96. He is a 
young man of much promise, and is very 
popular. 



Knupp, Benjamin F., a member of the 
firm of B. F. Knupp & Bro., marble and 
granite dealers, Penbrook, Dauphin county, 
was born on the 10th of December, 1857, at 
Springfield, Ohio. He is a son of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Eshnauer) Knupp. The parents 
had a family of ten children, all of whom 
are living. They are: Mary, wife of Hi- 
ram Reimert, Christopher, George, Sam- 
uel, Edward, John, Daniel W., Benjamin, 
Henry, and Emma, wife of David McNeil. 
Mr. and Mrs. Forrest, the parents of Mrs. 
Knupp, had these children: Mary, de- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



969 



ceased, wife of Rev. Samuel Smith, of Hunt- 
ingdon county, Pa.; Abner J.; Emma, wife 
of Ephraim Yeingst ; Ellen ; Sadie, wife of 
Samuel First. Mr. Knupp's parents moved 
to Harrisburg when he was only one year 
old and he received his education in the 
public schools of Susquehanna township. 
He then learned the trade of broom making 
with his father and also the trade of plaster- 
ing with his brother Samuel. He then en- 
gaged in business for himself and continued 
thus until 1892, when he established the 
business which is now so extensive and well 
known, and of which he is the head. His 
brother, Edward M., is associated with him. 
He was married, in 1875, to Miss Ellen For- 
rest, daughter of Abner and Catharine For- 
rest. They had three children : Minnie E., 
deceased ; Irvin A., and \ r erna M. In poli- 
tics Mr. Knupp is a Republican. The family 
are members of the United Brethren church. 



Ludwig, Emanuel, merchant, Penbrook, 
was born in 1851, in Lancaster county. He 
is a' son of Emanuel and Hanna Stager 
Ludwig. The father died in March, 1882, 
and the mother December 10, 1861. They 
had these children : Emanuel ; Sarah, widow 
of Samuel Lentz ; Amanda, wife of Franklin 
Walburn ; Hanna ; Lydia, wife of Abraham 
Shoenaman ; Jerome ; Adam ; Annie, wife of 
Jacob Shakespear, who died June, 1890; and 
Jacob, who died in infancy. The father mar- 
ried, secondly, Miss Mary Brandt in 1864. 
Emanuel received his education in the public 
schools of Lancaster and Dauphin counties. 
After leaving school he learned the trade of 
shoemaking at Fisherville, Dauphin county, 
with Peter Erb. He then followed painting 
for about sixteen years. Subsequently he 
engaged in the manufacture and sale of pot- 
tery at Harrisburg and still continues the 
business in connection with his mercantile 
pursuits at Penbrook. He was married, in 
August, 1872, to Sarah Malinda Sheetz, 
daughter of William and Barbara Zimmer- 
man Sheetz. Their children are: Sadie 
Irene, deceased, Emma Francis, Barbara 
Annie, and Emanuel Leroy. In politics he 
is a Republican and has served as judge of 
elections. The family are members of the 
Zion Evangelical church. 



parents had a family of four children : John 
W., Mary, Frank H., and William J. Mrs. 
Matzinger's father died in January, 1891, 
and her mother still survives. Their children 
are : Catherine E., Charles J., Sadie W., John 
L., Ross W., and Madie M. Frank H. re- 
ceived his education in the public schools of 
Harrisburg, and then engaged in gardening 
and farming, in which occupation he has 
been continuously engaged to the present 
time. He was married, January 22, 1895, 
to Miss Catherine E., daughter of John L. 
and Sarah Garman Beaver. They have 
two children, Sarah M. and Jeanette Catha- 
rine. In politics he is a Democrat. The 
family are members of the Coxestown Metho- 
dist Episcopal church. 



Minnick, Michael E., brickmaker, Har- 
risburg, Pa., was born in Philadelphia, Oc- 
tober 27, 1857. He is a son of Michael and 
Jane Murphy Minnick. The father died 
October 13, 1862. and the mother January 
25, 1881. They had a family of five chil- 
dren. Mrs. Minnick's father died May 4, 
1872, and her mother still survives. Michael 
E. received his education in the public 
schools of Harrisburg. At an early age he 
learned the trade of brickmaking. From 
1876 to 1886 he was in the hotel business, 
and then engaged in making bricks with the 
firm of Maloney & Minnick. In 1893 the 
firm dissolved partnership, and since then 
Mr. Minnick has conducted the business in 
company with his brother. He was married, 
June 4, 1891, to Ellen J., daughter of James 
and Annie M. Nugert, of Philadelphia. They 
have one child, Thomas. In politics he is a 
Democrat, and is a member of the Roman 
Catholic church. 



Matzinger, Frank H, farmer and gar- 
dener, Harrisburg, Pa., was born August 12, 
1866, at Harrisburg. He is a son of Jacob 
G. and Margaret Cameron Matzinger. The 



Nissley, Martin H, dairyman and farmer, 
is a son of Solomon and Catharine (Paul) 
Nissley. The parents had a family of nine chil- 
dren : Joseph, Francis, Henrietta, Henry P., 
Rachel H, Rebecca L., Martin H, Emma E., 
EdgarG.and Annie A. Mrs. Nissley's fatheris 
deceased and her mother still survives. They 
had four children, two of whom, Mary and 
Eliza, are deceased. Mr. Nissley's education 
was received in the public schools of his na- 
tive place and in the high school of New 
Kingston, Cumberland county. After leav- 
ing school he engaged in farming. He was 
married, September 21, 1886, to Miss Emma 
Dodge, daughter of Edwin and Charlotte 
(Sherwood) Dodge. Their children are : 



970 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Annie C, Horace C, Marion C, and Rachel 
H. In politics he is a staunch Republican, 
and is also a member of the United Breth- 
ren church. 



Nissley, Isaac L., farmer, was born in 
Swatara township, December 22, 1822. He 
is a son of Martin and Fanny (Laudis) 
Nissley. Mr. Nissley's father had a family of 
ten children, five of whom survive : Isaac L., 
Solomon, Jacob, Joseph, and Fannie. Isaac 
L. received his education in the public 
schools of his native place. He then en- 
gaged in farming, but is now living retired. 
He was married, in 1840, to Miss Mary, 
daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Neidig, 
by whom he had one child, Mary. His 
wife died January 14, 1852. He married, 
secondly, Catharine M. Harper, daughter of 
Jacob and Mary (Miller) Harper. Their 
children are: Ira H, Clara, Elmer E., Isaac 
L., Ida E , Cora, Warren R., and J. Harper. 
Elmer is a mail agent, and J. Harper is a 
stenographer. Mr. Nissley is a staunch Re- 
publican and has served two terms as super- 
visor. He is a member of the United 
Brethren church. 



Painter, Jacob, retired blacksmith, Pro- 
gress, Pa., was born in Oley township, Berks 
county, Pa., in 1825. The parents are both 
deceased. There was but one day of a dif- 
ference in their ages, each being eighty-one 
years old. Jacob received his education in 
his native county, and at the age of eighteen 
began to learn the trade of blacksmith with 
Frederick Yeiser, in Mill Creek township, 
Lebanon county. He served an apprentice- 
ship of two and a half years, for which he 
received $20 per year, after which he worked 
six years in his native county. At the age of 
twenty-seven he began business for himself, 
at Manada Hills, Middle Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, where he remained three 
years. After living at Pine Grove, Schuyl- 
kill county, and various other places, he 
moved to Susquehanna township, where he 
continued his trade for twenty-seven years. 

In 1887 he purchased the Ludwig prop- 
erty, and in 1889 bought his present home. 
He retired from business in 1892. 

He was married, first, August 21, 1847, to 
Miss Amelia McCorkle, daughter of William 
and Elizabeth (Fultz) McCorkle. Their chil- 
dren are: Jacob H., born May 27, 1849, and 
died August 27, 1854 ; Joseph, born March 
16, 1856, and died in 1857 ; Barbara, born 



September 29, 1851, wife of Augustus Shoop ; 
Mary E., born October 10, 1853, wife of Will- 
iam Wolf; and one child who died in infancy. 
His wife died April 9, 1857. He married, 
secondly, February 4, 1858, Miss Eliza, 
daughter of Frederick and Elizabeth Lutz. 
Their children were : Katie E., born Decem- 
ber 26, 1860, wife of Jacob Wolf; and Sallie 
E., born April 4, 1863, wife of Wentz Metz- 
ger. Both daughters are deceased. Their 
mother died December 30, 1883. He married, 
thirdly, July 23, 1885, Miss Mary E. Weaver, 
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Zimmer- 
man) Weaver. In politics Mr. Painter is a 
Republican, and has served in various offices, 
being township auditor for three terms, and 
tax collector for one term, in 1887. He is a 
member of the Church of God. 



Ream, Abram, miller, Fort Hunter, Pa., 
was born near Schaefferstown, Lebanon 
county, Pa., November 25, 1833. He is a son 
of John and Sarah Ream. The father w T as 
born September 1, 1808, and died April 27, 
1880, while the mother was born in 1806 and 
died March 10, 1878. They had a family of 
eight children : Annie, wife of Henry Hem- 
perly ; Abram ; Levina, wife of John Tittle ; 
John ; Sarah, widow of William Gross ; Ma- 
linda, wife of William Rhoads ; and two 
who died in infancy. Mrs. Ream's father died 
December 30, 1894, aged eighty-three years, 
and her mother died April 27, 1874, aged 
sixty-eight years. They had these children : 
Abraham G., Elizabeth, Henry and John, 
both deceased, and one who died in infancy. 

Abram received his education in the public 
schools of East Hanover township, Lebanon 
county. He then assisted his father on the 
farm until 1852, when he began to learn the 
milling trade. He rented a mill and began 
business for himself in 1856. In 1863 he 
moved to Manada Furnace and rented the 
mill owned by his father-in-law. In 1868 he 
bought the old McAllister mill at Fort 
Hunter. The original structure was built in 
1735, and the present building was erected 
in 1881. In 1886 the roller system was in- 
troduced into the mill. He was married, 
June 5, 1856, to Elizabeth Rider, daughter of 
Adam and Barbara (Gish) Rider. Their 
children are : Ida C, born June 19, 1871, and 
died August 13, 1887; Emma L., born May 
22, 1857 ; Ellen, born January 31, 1860, wife 
of Dr. Heckert, of West Fairview, Cumber- 
land county ; Elmer E., born August 21, 
1862 ; Abraham Lincoln, born August 28, 




WILLIAM J. GEORGE. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



973 



1864; Harry R., born December 7, 1880. 
In politics Mr. Ream is a Republican. The 
family attend the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Reichert, Henry, farmer, was born Sep- 
tember 17, 1833. He is a son of Henry and 
Annie Denny Reichert. The father died at 
the age of eighty-one years and the mother 
at the age of seventy-nine. They had a 
family of three children. Henry received 
his education in the public schools of Lower 
Paxton and Susquehanna townships. After 
leaving school he engaged in farming and 
has been engaged in that occupation con- 
tinuously up to the present time. He was 
married to Miss Margaret Douglass, daugh- 
ter of Jeremiah and Mary (Wagner) Douglass. 
Their children are : Annie M., David Joseph, 
Harvey L., William J., Andrew C, Rebecca 
E., Benjamin H, Jeremiah F., Carrie M., 
and one who died at the age of seven years. 
Mr. Reichert has served two terms as super- 
visor and also serves as inspector. His an- 
cestors were Lutherans. 



Shope, Elias L., M. D., Penbrook, was 
born at Penbrook. He is a son of Elias P. 
and Elizabeth Fackler Shope. The father 
was born November 25, 1833, and died 
March 13, 1885, and the mother was born 
May 10, 1833, and died August 6, 1873. 
They had a family of eight children, five of 
whom have passed awaj'. The surviving 
ones are : George W., Susan E., and Elias L. 
Elias L. received his primary education in 
the public schools of Penbrook and in the 
Harrisburg Academy. He then taught 
school three years, after which he began 
to study medicine with Dr. Emil Putt, of 
Oberlin. In 1887 he entered the University 
of Maryland, Baltimore, and a year later 
continued his studies in Jefferson Medical 
College, of Philadelphia, from which insti- 
tution he graduated in 1889. He located in 
Penbrook for the practice of his profession, 
and enjoys a large practice. He built his 
present home in 1894. In addition to his 
profession he also conducts a store success- 
fully. 

He was married, August 15, 1889, to Miss 
Mary Hocker, daughter of Adam and Martha 
Hocker. They have one child, Herman S- 
The parents of Mrs. Shope had these chil- 
dren : Kate, wife of David Gingerick ; Ella, 
wife of Samuel Garrett ; Mary; Lizzie, wife 
of Daniel Rhodes ; Susan, and Martin. In 
6i 



1889 the Doctor was appointed county phy- 
sician by the board of directors of the poor, 
and was largely instrumental in having 
Penbrook incorporated as a borough in 1893. 
In politics he is a Republican. The family 
are members of the United Brethren church. 



Stouffer, Elias E., farmer, was born Au- 
gust 3, 1854, in Lower Paxton township. He 
is a son of Jacob J. and Barbara (Ebersole) 
Stouffer. The father, Jacob J. Stouffer, was 
born in Dauphin county, January 4, 1806, 
and died April 21, 1891. The mother was 
born November 10, 1816. They had a fam- 
ily of five children. Mrs. Stouffer's father 
died August 29, 1895, and her mother in 
March, 1893. Elias E. received his early 
education in the public schools, and then 
engaged in farming, which he has fol- 
lowed up to the present time. He was mar- 
ried, January 25, 1877, to Miss Elizabeth 
Ann Ewing, daughter of William and Bar- 
bara (Lingle) Ewing. Their children are : 
Mary E., Ida A., William E., Laura J., and 
Ruth M. Mr. Stouffer is a Republican and 
has served as assessor. He is treasurer of 
Shoop's Union Congregational church. 

Trullinger, George L., dairyman and 
farmer, was born in Middle Paxton town- 
ship, October 23, 1851. He is a son of Will- 
iam and Eliza Walker Trullinger. The 
mother died November 16, 1884, and had a 
family of ten children, four of whom sur- 
vive: Samuel Walker, George L., John E., 
and Mary, wife of John J. Hain. He re- 
ceived his education in the public schools 
and academy. He then engaged in farming, 
and has continued in that occupation to the 
present time. He was married, December 
26, 1876, to Miss Katie R. Kunkle, daughter 
of Joseph and Susan Black Kunkle. Their 
children are: Mary S., George C, and 
Ralph E. In politics he is a Republican, 
and the family are members of the Reformed 
church. 



Ulrich, Isaac, farmer, was born in Lower 
Swatara township, October 1, 1845. He is a 
son of Samuel and Polly Allaman Ulrich. 
The lather died in 1886, at the age of 
seventy-nine years, and the mother died at 
the age of sixty years. They had these chil- 
dren: Nancy, Solomon, Catharine, Mary, 
Elizabeth, Martin, Isaac, Sarah, David, 
Emma, Rebecca, and Samuel, both de- 
ceased. 



974 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Isaac received his education in the public 
schools of his native place, and then engaged 
in farming for his father. In 1869 he began 
to farm for himself, and has continued in 
that occupation to the present time. He was 
married, in November, 1869, to Miss Eliza- 
beth Foltz, daughter of Christian and Bar- 
bara Foltz. Their children are : Milton F., 
Mary A., Albert N., a graduate of Shippens- 
burg Normal School ; William E., and Bertha 
M. He is a Republican, and has served as 
school director, tax collector, and township 
auditor. He and his family attend the 
United Brethren church. 



Beaver, John L., farmer and fruit-grower, 
was born September 28, 1850. He is a son 
of Isaac L. and Catharine (Lingle) Beaver. 
The father died July 17, 1891, and the 
mother September 25, 1861. They had four 
children : John L.; Annie, wife of John Ham- 
ping ; James Buchanan ; and Emma, wife 
of Isaac Zimmerman. Mr. Beaver received 
his education in the public schools, and then 
engaged in farming until 1872, when he be- 
gan truck-farming, a business which he has 
followed up to the present time. He mar- 
ried, March 20, 1872, Miss Sallie Carman, 
daughter of George and Katherine (Page) 
Garman. Their children are : Katie E., wife 
of Franklin Matzinger; Charles E., Sadie, 
John L., Jr., Ross, and Manda. Mr. Beaver 
has served as inspector on the election board, 
and is a member of the Farmers' Grange, 
No. 42, of Dauphin county. The family are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal church. 



STEELTON AND SWATARA TOWN- 
SHIP. 



Henderson, William B., M. D., was born 
in Hummelstown, Pa., January 8, 1830. He 
is a son of Dr. William Henderson and Mary 
(Wolfersherger) Henderson. His father was 
born in Cumberland county, Pa., in 1795. 
He read medicine with Dr. Sampson, of 
Shippensburg, and graduated from the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania in 1818. In the 
same year he located in Hummelstown, Pa., 
and engaged in the practice of his pro- 
fession, in which he continued until his 
death, in 1849. He was recognized as one. 
of the leading physicians of his' time. In 
1838 he was elected to the State Legislature, 
and served two terms, the first session being 



held in Philadelphia, and the second in 
Harrisburg. He was an active member of 
the Presbyterian church. He was married 
to Miss Mary Wolfersberger, of Campbells- 
town, Lebanon county, Pa. 

Dr. William B. was primarily instructed 
in the subscription schools of the town, and 
subsequently completed a collegiate course 
at Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg. When 
he was seventeen years of age he engaged as 
clerk with Robert E. Snodgrass, of Ship- 
pensburg, and remained with him two years. 
After this he began the study of medicine 
with Dr. Benjamin Wiestling, of Middle- 
town. In the autumn of 1851 he entered 
the office of Prof. John Atlee, a member of 
the faculty of Pennsylvania Medical College. 
He was graduated from this institution in 
March, 1853. In the following year he be- 
gan the practice of medicine and surgery in 
Hummelstown, forming a partnership with 
Dr. Jacob Shope. In 1860 he removed to 
Mount Nebo, Lebanon county, Pa., and took 
charge of the extensive practice of Dr. 
Jacob Cooper. In 1862 he left a large and 
lucrative practice and enlisted in the army 
in defense of his country. He was assigned 
to duty as assistant surgeon of the Eighth 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, " The 
Philadelphia Blues," and joined his regi- 
ment at Hagerstown, Md. In November of 
the same year he was commissioned by Gov. 
Andrew G. Curtin as assistant surgeon of 
the One Hundred and Sixty-seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania drafted militia, com- 
manded by Col. Charles Knoderer, and was 
at his side when he was killed at the battle 
of Deserted House, Virginia, December 29. 
In 1864 he was assigned to duty as assistant 
surgeon of the United States army at General 
Slough barracks hospital, Virginia, under 
Surgeon Beutley. Later he was assigned to 
duty at the general hospital in the Fairfax 
Seminary building, at Fairfax Court House, 
Va. He was afterwards in service at Berks 
Station, Va., and at Winchester, W. Va. He 
was also for several months with the Six- 
teenth New York cavalry. In 1865 he was 
again commissioned by the War Gover- 
nor of Pennsylvania as assistant surgeon of 
the Sixth Pennsylvania cavalry, and was 
with that regiment until the end of the war. 
After his discharge from the army he prac- 
ticed medicine and surgery in various places 
until 1880, when he located in Steelton, 
where he has since resided, and where he 
enjoys a good practice. He has been sur- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



975 



geon of Sergeant Lascomb Post, No. 351, 
G. A. R., since its organization in 1883. 
He married the accomplished daughter of 
farmer Jacob Seiders. They are prominent 
in society and are important factors in the 
busy and prosperous community in which 
they reside. 



Henderson, Dr. James, deceased, was 
born in Hummelstown, in 1827. He studied 
medicine under Dr. Washington L. Atlee, of 
Philadelphia, and remained with him eight 
years, assisting him in his extensive practice. 
He married a Miss Wolfersberger, and went 
to Plymouth, Ohio, where he remained two 
years. At the death of his father he returned 
to Hummelstown, and succeeded to the ex- 
tensive practice his father had enjoyed there. 
Early in the war of the Rebellion he enlisted 
in the defense of his country, and became 
commander of company C , One Hundred 
and Twenty-seventh regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers ; he served with distinction, par- 
ticipating in many of the famous battles of 
the war. He re-enlisted in August, 1864, in 
the Two Hundred and First regiment, as as- 
sistant surgeon to Dr. Benjamin F. Wagon- 
seller, and was honorably discharged in De- 
cember, 1864, at Alexandria, Va. He then 
returned to Hummelstown, Pa., and resumed 
the practice of medicine. He died from a 
pulmonary attack in April, 1880, leaving a 
widow and five children: James A., of Har- 
risburg ; Charles R., of Trenton, N. J.; Henry 
Clay, of Harrisburg ; Annie, wife of Robert 
Emerick, of Harrisburg, and Maggie May, a 
teacher of Cleveland, Ohio. 



Henderson,- John W., deceased, was born 
in Hummelstown. He served in the war of 
the Rebellion. He was a member of com- 
pany C, One Hundred and Twenty-seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and of 
company C, One Hundred and Ninety-second 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, both 
companies from Hummelstown. He was for 
twenty-four years a member of the Hum- 
melstown Band, and was a proficient per- 
former on the B fiat cornet. Socially he was 
a man of great kindness of heart and of most 
generous impulses, and was very popular. 
He died in Hummelstown, in 1889. He was 
married to Miss Sarah Fox, daughter of John 
Fox. His wife survives him, with four chil- 
dren : Minnie, Sallie, Mary, and Bruce. 



Seibert, William Henry, M. D., the son 
of Jacob and Anna Mary (Nonamaker) Sei- 
bert, was born February 19, 1850, in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, ten 
miles east of Harrisburg, Pa. His great- 
grandfather, John Adam Seibert, emigrated 
from Germany in the year 1764, and settled 
in the vicinity of Reading, Pa. He had four 
children : John, born in 1767 ; Tobias, born 
in 1769 ; George, born in 1772 ; and Susanna, 
who was married, first, to Peter Dentzel, and 
second, to John Mayer, of Paxtang township. 
John Adam Seibert served in the Revolu- 
tionary war, and soon after its close removed 
to the vicinity of Hummelstown, Dauphin 
county, where he continued to live until the 
time of his death. 

George Seibert, born November 3, 1772, 
died May 6, 1837 ; was married to Margaret 
Brandt, who was born September 13, 1787, 
and died September 9, 1849. She was the 
daughter of Jacob and Maria Elizabeth 
(Windnagle) Brandt, whose children were : 
Elisabeth, Susan, Margaret, Christian, Maria 
Ann (Nancy), and John. The parents of 
Jacob Brandt were Samuel Brandt, born in 
1708 and died in 1768, and Rosina Brandt, 
born in 1712, who emigrated from Germany 
in 1732, and settled in Paxtang township. 
Their children were : Christian, John, Peter, 
Nancy, Elizabeth, Jacob, and Maria. Maria 
Elizabeth Windnagle, the wife of Jacob 
Brandt, born December 14, 1753, died 1837, 
was the daughter of John Mathias Wind- 
nagle, born May 14, 1716, died February 28, 
1786, and Maria Catharine Ritter, his wife, 
born April 7, 1717, died February 28, 1786. 
They emigrated from Switzerland in 1732 
and" settled near Middletown, Pa. Their 
descendants are quite numerous and promi- 
nent citizens of Dauphin county. 

George and Margaret (Brandt) Seibert had 
children : Elizabeth, born June 17, 1804, 
married Michael Horner, died September 
22, 1853 ; Catharina, born August 10, 1805, 
married John Peters, died May 22, 1869 ; 
Anna Maria, born August 10, 1809, married 
Jacob Gensler, died October 7, 1895 ; Mag- 
dalena, born December 10, 1810, died single 
January 8, 1879; Sarah, born April 21, 
1812, married Solomon Snyder, died Sep- 
tember 23, 1885 ; Susanna, born January 8, 
1814, married John Shirk, died December 
20, 1847 ; John, born October 28, 1816, late 
of Palmyra, Pa., died March 20, 1893 ; Jacob, 
born September 22, 1818, died near Hum- 
melstown, October 9, 1886 ; David, born 



976 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



September 20, 1820, died near Lebanon Pa., 
September 3, 1870, and George, born July 
13, 1825, living at Union Deposit, Pa.; be- 
sides several deceased minor children. 

The wife of Jacob Seibert. born September 
22, 1818, died October 9, 1886, was Anna 
Mary Nonamaker. born March 10, 1824, and 
died February 26, 1858. She was the 
daughter of John H. Nonamaker, died Sep- 
tember 5, 1831, who emigrated from Ger- 
many, and Sybilla Slecht, died 1866, the 
daughter of Matthias Slecht, who also emi- 
grated from Germany. Their children were : 
Anna Mary, Catharine E., John H., and 
Charles. The children of Jacob Seibert are : 
John D., born in 1816, a farmer of Hanover 
Dale, Dauphin county ; Annie M., born in 
1848, of Steelton, Pa.; William H., born in 
1850 ; Susan S., born in 1852, married George 
W. Dress, of Steelton, Pa.; and George W., 
born in 1855, a physician of Lebanon, Pa. 

William H. Seibert spent his childhood 
on the farm with his parents, receiving the 
education afforded by the country schools. 
Later he attended the select school of the 
neighborhood, and subsequently taught for 
five years in the country schools, and studied 
at Lebanon Valley College, In 1872 he be- 
gan the study of medicine with John H. 
Roebuck, M. D., of Hummelstown, Pa., and 
graduated from the University of Pennsyl- 
vania, March 12, 1874. He soon after lo- 
cated in Steelton (then Baldwin), where he 
has since practiced his profession. On the 
organization of the town into a borough in 
1880, Dr. Seibert was elected a councilman 
and occupied the position of president of the 
council. In 1883 he was elected burgess 
and re-elected for the following term. He 
has been active in the practice of his pro- 
fession, and prominent in the business en- 
terprises of the place and vicinity. 

Peters, Jacob M., M. D., Steelton, Pa., was 
born at Mountville, Lancaster county, Pa., 
December 1, 1862. His grandfather, Michael 
Peters, was one of the pioneers of Lancaster 
county, and lived to a good old age. Rev. 
Lewis Peters, father of Jacob M., was born 
July 12, 1836, and died March 8, 1893. He 
was a member of the United Brethren Con- 
ference of Pennsylvania. He officiated as 
pastor in the United Brethren church for 
over forty years. He married Miss Cassa : 
della Rank, of Lancaster county, \>y whom 
he had three children, namely: Jacob M.; 
Augustus, a prominent druggist of Steelton, 



and Minnie, wife of John P. Knisely, of 
Steelton. 

Jacob M. attended the common schools of 
Lancaster county until he was about fifteen 
years old. In 1877 he entered the grammar 
school of Mrs. Johnson, after which he was 
promoted to Professor Hoofnagle's class. In 
1879 he entered the freshman class in the 
classical course at Lebanon Valley College. 
In 1883 he passed examination before Dr. 
William L. Atlee, Sr., Dr. J. Carpenter, of 
Lancaster, and Dr. Ziegler. He then en- 
tered the office of Dr. Henry B. Stehman as 
a student of medicine, where he remained 
for about six months, when Dr. Stehman re- 
moved to Chicago, 111. He then entered the 
office of Dr. Frank M. Musser, of Lancaster, 
where he remained until 1885. He was 
graduated from Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia, in May, 1886. After one 
month's vacation, he located in Steelton, and 
began the practice of his profession. He has 
met with gratifying success, and enjoys an 
extensive practice. He has been surgeon for 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company since 
1889. He was county physician from 1887 
to 1891. He has been health officer of Steel- 
ton Board of Health since March, 1895. He 
has also been secretary of the Board of Health 
since its organization in 1892. He is a mem- 
ber of Robert Burns Lodge, No. 464, F. & A. 
M.; Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11, K. T.; 
Harrisburg Consistory, 32°, and Lulu Tem- 
ple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Philadelphia. He 
has been a member of the Dauphin County 
Medical Society since 1887. He was mar- 
ried, December 15, 1886, to Miss Margaret 
McCausland Sample, daughter of Dr. Samuel 
R. Sample, of Lancaster county, Pa. 



Missemer, J. R., editor and publisher of 
the Steelton Advocate, was born on the banks 
of the Little Chickies creek, in Mount Joy 
township, Lancaster county, Pa., March 24, 
1851. His father died when he was only 
three years old. He spent the first twenty- 
five years of his life on the farm on which 
he was born. He received the education 
which the country schools afforded and the 
important practical training which indus- 
trious employment in farming gave him. At 
the age of seventeen a teacher's certificate 
was granted him by County Superintendent 
Evans. He taught school three terms in 
his native township. When he was twenty- 
one years of age he was elected justice of 
the peace for five years, and at the expira- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



977 



tion of this term he was re-elected to the 
same office, but soon removed from the dis- 
trict. During that time he also carried on 
surveying and conveyancing, besides doing 
an extensive business as a scrivener. He 
first embarked in the newspaper business in 
1875, when he became the local editor of the 
Milton Grove News, which at that time was 
published by the Lancaster County News- 
paper Alliance. The following year he es- 
tablished the paper as an independent jour- 
nal and became its sole editor and pub- 
lisher. At the same time he established and 
conducted a job printing office. 

In 1878 lie purchased the Mount J03' Star 
and consolidated the two papers as the 
Mount Joy Star and News. He published 
this paper for nine years and enlarged and 
improved it. For a number of years it was 
the largest of the eighteen papers published 
in the county outside of Lancaster city. 
For several years he conducted a newspaper 
syndicate, during which time he edited and 
published the Florin Independent, Milton 
Grove Progress, Bainbridge Banner, Sporting 
Hill Messenger, Salunga Siftings and Landis- 
ville Vigil. 

In 1888 he purchased the Steelton Advo- 
cate, which he has published since that time. 
At present he issues only a weekly edition of 
the paper, but for some time before the de- 
pression of business two years ago he pub- 
lished the Daily Advocate. In 1892 he asso- 
ciated his son George W. with himself in 
the publishing of the Advocate. The junior 
member of the firm was onty fifteen years of 
age at the time he assumed the responsible 
position of proprietor, and was then the 
youngest editor and newpaper publisher in 
the United States. In 1893 Mr. Missemer 
again purchased the Mt. Joy Star and News, 
which he had sold six years before. Since 
that time he publishes both papers, but both 
offices and papers are kept as distinct and 
separate as if they belonged to different pro- 
prietors. He continues to reside with his 
family at Steelton and gives the Advocate his 
personal attention for several days of each 
week. The rest of his time he devotes to his 
Mt. Joy office. In his absence the Steelton 
office is in charge of his son and is in safe 
and able hands. By this feature of his busi- 
ness Mr. Missemer is demonstrating by prac- 
tical operation the advantages of having 
more than one newspaper and printing office 
under one management. This plan has been 
successfully carried out in many branches of 



business, but has not before been attempted 
in the publishing business. The result is so 
eminently satisfactory that he contemplates 
starting a third paper and printing office. 

While Mr. Missemer has had his hands so 
full at home he has not failed to look abroad. 
He has made a notable record as a traveler, 
having visited the Pacific Coast and Canada 
as well as the Southern States. He recently 
made a trip to the Cotton States Exposition, 
at Atlanta, Ga., and at the same time went 
to Florida, visiting Jacksonville, St. Au- 
gustine and Tampa. Mr. Missemer has been 
serving as administrator, executor and as- 
signee for a number of estates. His family 
consists of his wife, four sons and two daugh- 
ters. 



Wickersham, Frank B., attorney, Steel- 
ton, Pa., was born in Newberry township, 
York county, Pa., April 7, 1863. His father, 
Joseph Wickersham, was a native of York 
county, Pa. He was born April 1, 1809, 
and died February 28, 1892. He was a far- 
mer, and also taught school for a period of 
ten years. He took a deep interest in edu- 
cational affairs, and was an ardent temper- 
ance reformer. He belonged to the Society 
of Friends. He married Hannah C. Squibb. 
They had twelve children, eight of whom 
are living, namely: John, who married Miss 
Ada Bryan, and has six children ; Susan, 
wife of John M. Freeburn, of Dauphin 
county, who has four children ; Matilda, 
living iu Steelton ; Marianna, widow of John 
A. Sponsler, of Dauphin county ; Clara, wife 
of Dr. Geo. C. Garretson, of Cincinnati, Ohio ; 
M. S., married to Lizzie Elden, by whom he 
has two children ; Emma, wife of John H. 
Wacker, of Wooster, Ohio, who has one 
child, and Frank B. William and Rebecca 
were scalded to death at the ages of four and 
two years respectively. Ellen, Annie and 
Lizzie died of diphtheria when quite young. 

Frank B. acquired his primary education 
in the public schools of his native township. 
In 1SS1 he began teaching school, and 
taught two terms in his native township, 
one term in the model school of the Normal 
School at Shippensburg, Cumberland county, 
one term in the Hanover high school and 
three terms in Steelton, Pa. In 1884 he 
graduated from the Cumberland Valley 
State Normal School, and in 1885 registered 
as law student under Senator McCarrell. 
January 19, 1888, he was admitted to the 
Dauphin county bar. Since that time he 



978 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



has been engaged in the practice of his pro- 
fession in Steelton. He has acted as solicitor 
of the borough of Steelton since 1889. He 
is director and attorney for the Steelton 
Home Water Company, and director and so- 
licitor for the People's Building and Loan 
Association. He has been a member of the 
school board for a period of six years. He is a 
Republican, and is active in party matters. 
He is an active member of St. John's Lu- 
theran church, and is one of its trustees. 
He is a director of the Young Men's Chris- 
tian Association of Steelton. In 1889 he 
married Miss Mary, daughter of George and 
Elizabeth (Roe) Fencil, of Steelton, by whom 
he has two children, Frank Brewster, born 
June 22, 1893, and Robert Cadwallader, born 
February 2, 1895. 



Hummell, Levi, Steelton, Pa., was born 
July 19, 1820. Christian Hummell, his 
grandfather, was a native of Dauphin county, 
his father's family being among its earliest 
settlers. He lived and died in Hummels- 
town. He was a carpenter by trade. He 
married, and reared seven children : John, 
Jacob, Christian, Jr., Frederick, Joseph, 
David, and Polly. He died at the age of 
eighty-five years. Jacob Hummell, son of 
Christian and father of Levi, was born March 
13, 1791. He learned the trade of carpenter, 
and followed that occupation through life. 
He married Miss Justina Bowers, of Hum- 
melstown, who was born in Germany. Their 
children were : Susanna, born January 6, 
1816, died September 1, 1822 ; Caroline, who 
died February 21, 1852 ; Levi ; Justina, born 
December 8, 1822, widow of Benjamin Fes- 
ter, of Mansfield , Ohio ; Sarah, born October 4, 
1825; Abner, bora October 2, 1827,- died 
leaving a widow and six children ; Harriet, 
deceased, born February 3. 1830, married 
Christian Laley, had two children; Theo- 
dore, born October 16, 1833, married Miss 
Hoy, and had three children, two of whom 
are living ; Mary, born July 20, 1836, living 
in the West. 

Levi Hummell acquired his education in 
the common schools of his locality. At the 
age of eleven years he began learning the 
trade of a carpenter, as apprentice to his 
father. He followed this occupation until 
1871, when he erected the first grocery store 
in Steelton, where he had carried on that 
business for fifteen years, after which he re- 
tired. He takes an active part in politics 
iu connection with the Republican party. 



He has held the office of borough supervisor 
for a term of three }'ears. He and his fam- 
ily attend the United Brethren church. He 
was married, February 20, 1845, to Miss Julia 
M. Brestle. daughter of Charles Brestle, of 
Middletown. Their children are : Elmer O, 
clerk in the commissioner's office, at Harris- 
burg ; Charles, a carpenter at the Steel Works ; 
Clara W., living at home, and five who have 
died : John Boyd, Henry, and Robert, died 
in infancy; Harriet Rebecca, in 1864, at the 
age of sixteen years, and Joseph Abner, May 
14, 1891, aged forty years. 



Culp, John F., M. D., Steelton, was born in 
Philadelphia, Pa., July 6, 1864. His father, 
John Gulp, is a native of the same county, 
and was born in 1832. He was a contractor 
and builder in the early part of his life, and 
later engaged in the produce business. He 
retired from business in 1888. He married 
Miss Alice Onell, of Philadelphia. They had 
six children: William, deceased ; Margaret, 
died in infancy; Emma, wife of William 
Spencer; John F.; Lea, living at home ; and 
Raymond, who died in infancy. Mr. Culp 
has always taken a deep interest in educa- 
tional matters, and has especially sought to 
give his children the advantages of a thor- 
ough and liberal education. John F. com- 
pleted his preliminary education in the 
Philadelphia high school, from which he was 
graduated in 1882. He pursued the regular 
course in the University of Pennsylvania, 
entering in 1883, and receiving his diploma 
in 1886. He came at once to Harrisburg, 
and began the practice of his profession as 
resident physician in the Harrisburg Hos- 
pital, where he remained one year.- He next 
entered the office of Dr. Thomas J. Dunott, 
■where he remained one year; after this he 
located in Steelton, where he has since con- 
ducted a general practice, and has enjoyed a 
gratifying success. He is surgeon and resi- 
dent physician for the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company, of Steelton. He is a member of 
the Harrisburg Academy of Medicine, the 
Dauphin County Medical Society, the Penn- 
sylvania State Medical Society, and the 
American Medical Association. 



Couffer, Samuel, proprietor of the Couffer 
House, Steelton, Pa., was born near Harris- 
burg, in what is now a part of the citv 
March 9, 1838. His father, William Couffer, 
was a native of Berks county, Pa. He was 
born in 1808. He was a carpenter by trade. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



979 



He married Miss Catherine Sunnon ; and of 
their five children two are living : William, 
engaged in mining zinc and lead, at Joplin, 
Miss., married and has a family ; and Sam- 
uel. The father died December 24, 1883. 

Samuel acquired his education in the 
schools of Dauphin county and the city 
schools of Harrisburg. At the age of eleven 
lie became a boatman on the Pennsylvania 
canal, and followed this occupation up to 
1864. From that time until 1876 he had 
charge of the Bombaugh stone quarry. He 
was next engaged in the ice and coal busi- 
ness, which he carried on for fourteen years. 
In 1880 he turned his attention to hotel 
keeping and opened the Couffer House in 
Steelton, and has since continued to be its 
proprietor. He has met with success in this 
undertaking, and has demonstrated his busi- 
ness ability. He is also interested in other 
business ventures. He was the instigator of 
the Steelton Light, Heat and Power Com- 
pany, which was organized with a capital of 
$40,000, since increased to $60,000 and the 
company made a stock company. He acted 
as burgess of Steelton for one year. He is a 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, of 
Harrisburg, and of the I. O. R. M., No. 243, 
of Steelton. He is a Democrat in politics. 
In 1860 he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter 
of Samuel Martin, of Hummelstown, who 
died in the West. Their children are three : 
Charles M., who married Amanda Mumma, 
and has four children ; Samuel S., lineman 
for the Steelton Light, Heat and Power Com- 
pany, married Miss Bowman, and has one 
child ; Carrie, living at home. Mr. Couffer 
was one of the earliest settlers in what is now 
Steelton. When he came there, in 1865, the 
borough was not yet organized. 



Sieg, William H. H., editor and pub- 
lisher, Steelton, Pa., was born in Lykens 
Valley, near Millersburg, Dauphin county, 
Pa., May 17, 1837. He is a son of William 
P. and Catharine (Young) Sieg. The father 
was born near Hummelstown, Pa., January 
31, 1803, and died in Harrisburg, March 12, 
1879. He was a tailor by trade and was 
employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company for thirty years. He was married 
to Miss Catharine Young, who was born in 
Youngstown, Pa., February 21, 1804, and 
died in Harrisburg, March 24, 1885. They 
have had these children: Louisa; Catha- 
rine ; Samuel H., died in Chicago, in 1892 ; 



William H. H; Elizabeth, died in Harris- 
burg, in 1856 ; and Lydia A. 

William H. H. received his education in 
the public schools of Harrisburg. In early 
life he felt inclined toward newspaper work, 
and in 1852 began to learn printing with 
Rev. John Winebrenner, on the Church Ad- 
vocate, remaining there two years. During 
the war he was engaged part of the time as 
clerk in the Harrisburg postoffice, and was 
also in the secret service under Governor 
Curtin, rendering valuable and efficient ser- 
vice to the Government when the Southern 
troops were in the Cumberland Valley, be- 
fore the battle of Gettysburg. In 1869 he 
embarked in the printing business in Har- 
risburg, and in 1882 moved to Steelton and 
established the Steelton Reporter, an enter- 
prise which has proven very successful, and 
of which he is still the head. From 1866 to 
1876 Mr. Sieg was a member of the common 
council of Harrisburg, being president of the 
same from 1873 to 1875. He was secretary 
of Steelton borough council from 1883 to 
1885, resigning to accept the position of 
postmaster, to which he was appointed in 
February, 1885. After serving three years 
and a half he was re-appointed by President 
Harrison, September, 1891, and continued 
four years and a half longer in the same 
position. All the positions of public trust 
which Mr. Sieg has occupied have been held 
with that same fidelity and strict honesty 
which has always characterized his private 
affairs, and which has been the keynote of 
his success. He is a member of Free and 
Accepted Masons, and of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows. He was married, in 
Harrisburg, November 27, 1858, to Miss 
Annie A. Black, born September 10, 1837, 
daughter of Thomas Black, born in Dauphin 
county, in 1806, and Catharine (Hemperly) 
Black, born in Middletown, Pa., in 1808. 
Their children are : Katie, Mary, William P., 
Annie, deceased, and James Young Sieg. 
In politics Mr. Sieg is a Republican, and is 
a member of the Presbyterian church. 



Neron, D. W., Steelton, Pa., was born in 
Cumberland county, Pa., November 10, 1841. 
John Neron, his grandfather, was of Scotch- 
Irish descent, and was among the first set- 
tlers of Cumberland county. According to 
well-authenticated records, he lived to be 
over one hundred years old. He married 
Miss Tarman, of Adams county, Pa., by 
whom he had. five children : John, Benja- 



980 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



min, Joseph, Robert, and Rachel, who mar- 
ried John Hutchinson. Benjamin Neron, 
father of D. W., was born in 1810, in Cum- 
berland county, Pa., where he spent the 
greater part of his life. He was a horse- 
shoer by trade. For many years he was en- 
gaged on the Mississippi river in navigation. 
He married Miss Mary Moore, daughter of 
Anthony Moore. They had three children: 
D. W.; Anne, wife of William Vanasblin, of 
Harrisburg, and John R., died in 1868, at 
the age of twenty-four years. 

D. W. received his education in the com- 
mon schools of his native place. When a 
young man he worked with his father at the 
trade of horseshoeing. He was also engaged 
for about one year with a Mr. Redding, who 
was a coach painter. In 1861 he was em- 
ployed by the Government in the three 
months' service as a teamster. In 1864 he 
enlisted in the army in defense of his coun- 
try in the Two Hundred and Seventh regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, under Col. 
R. C. Cox, and served until the close of the 
war, participating in many noted battles. 
After his discharge from the army he was 
engaged in the Cumberland Valley as a 
house painter. He followed this occupation 
until 1889, when he removed to Steelton, 
where he has since lived. He is engaged in 
house painting and has a real estate business. 
He is also agent for an insurance company. 
He is identified with the Democratic party, 
and is always actively interested in the wel- 
fare of the party. In 1894 he was elected to 
the office of justice of the peace. In 1863 he 
married Miss Mary A., daughter of John 
Filey. They have three children : Elmer 
E., John F., and Mary E., telegraph opera- 
tor at the Commonwealth Hotel, in Harris- 
burg. 



Hite, Jerome, Steelton, Pa., was born in 
Susquehanna township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
December 31, 1836. His grandfather, Jacob 
Hite, was born near the Round Top, Dau- 
phin county. He was married and reared 
five children. He died at the age of sixty- 
three years, and his wife at the age of sixty- 
eight. Their children are: Jacob, Henry, 
John, and Barbara, all deceased, and Cathe- 
rine, wife of Mr. Bricker, of Londonderry 
township. Jacob Hite, father of Jerome, was 
born in Dauphin county in 1811. He was a 
farmer and gardener. His wife was Miss 
Sarah Foreman, daughter of John Foreman, 
who lived to the age of ninety-four years, and 



Sally Foreman, who lived to be ninety-seven 
years old. They had five children : Jerome ; 
Mary; Susan, died at the age of sixteen years; 
Sarah, deceased, and Jacob F. Mary is the 
widow of A. Hoopes, who was killed on the 
railroad at Phcenixville, leaving three chil- 
dren ; Sarah, deceased, was . the wife of Max- 
well Stanton. Jacob Hite, the father, died in 
1874, at the age of sixty-three. His wife 
Sarah is still living at Washington, Iowa, 
with her son Jacob F., who married Kittie 
Harper, of Dauphin county. 

Jerome acquired his education in the com- 
mon school of Coxestown. In early years he 
was engaged in farming and gardening ; he 
was well known in the Harrisburg markets. 
In 1862 he went as a volunteer with H. W. 
Hoffman to the battle of Antietam. In 1870 
he changed his occupation and began hotel 
keeping. His first venture was the Holsbach 
Hotel, in which he remained three years. At 
the end of this time he rented the hotel near 
the Bolton House, in Harrisburg, then called 
Mechanic's Hall, where he remained eight 
years. In 1S81 he went to Steelton, where 
he has ever since conducted the Steelton 
Hotel. He was instrumental in the organi- 
zation of the Steelton Light, Heat and Power 
Company, of which he has served as director 
since its organization. He was an organizer 
of the Paxtang Hook and Ladder Company 
in 1888. He is a Republican in politics and 
has alwa3 r s taken an active part in the meas- 
ures of his party. He has held the office of 
mercantile appraiser for one year, and has 
been assessor of the Fourth ward since 1885. 

He is a member of Paxtang Tribe, No. 
243, I. 0. R. M.; Paxtang Council, No. 2, de- 
gree of Pocahontas ; Steelton Lodge, No. 
411, K. of P.; Baldwin Commandery, No. 
108, A. & I. O. K. of M., Steelton; Moro 
Castle, No. 163, K. G. E.; Crusade Castle, 
No. 73, A. O. K. of M. C, Steelton. He 
is past chancellor commander of No. 411, 
K. of P.; past sachem of the Independent 
Order of Red Men ; representative of the 
Great Council of Pennsylvania for six 
terms, and in appreciation of his valuable 
services received the appointment of Great 
Guard of Wigwam. In his active and 
varied career Mr. Hite has used his abilities 
for the upbuilding of many fraternities, but 
his greater interests have always been enlisted 
in behalf of Redmanship and its principles. 
He was adopted into Octorara Tribe, No. 91, 
at Harrisburg, in 1867. After serving his 
tribe and the order for a number of years, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



981 



he moved to Steelton, withdrawing from No. 
91. He deposited his card in Paxtang 
Tribe, No. 243, and became as active there 
as he had been in No. 91. 

After being admitted into the Great Coun- 
cil liis effective work in advancing the inter- 
ests of the brotherhood gained for him a wide 
and deserving reputation. He was appointed 
for three great suns Deputy Great Sachem. 
While in the latter position he was instru- 
mental in organizing Susquehanna Tribe. 
No. 298, at Steelton ; Poketo Tribe, No. 315', 
at Middletown ; Canonicus Tribe, No. 94, at 
Mechanicsburg ; Te-ton Tribe, No. 311, at 
Harrisburg; Arrapahoe Tribe, No. 68, at 
Huntingdon ; also Paxtang Council, No. 2, 
D. of P., at Steelton. He was elected Great 
Junior Sagamore by the largest vote ever 
polled for this office, and raised at Great Sun 
Council at Columbia, May 23, 1896. 

In 1857 he married Miss Sarah J. Lynn, 
daughter of Michael Lynn, a native of Ire- 
land. They have four children : Jacob L., 
married, and living at Syracuse, N. Y.; Sadie 
V., wife of M. Cronan, of Steelton ; Clara L., 
wife of J. C. Whitmoyer. of Steelton ; and 
Bertie L., wife of John Sutton, of Altoona, Pa. 



McGinnes, Lemuel E., was born in Perry 
county, Pa., May 15, 1853. James McGin- 
nes, his paternal great-grandfather, was a 
native of the north of Ireland. He came to 
America in 1790 and settled in Greenwood 
township, now Buffalo township, Perry 
county. John Ditty, his maternal great- 
great-grandfather, settled in the Lykens 
Valley, three miles northeast of Millersburg, 
in 1770. John Cochran McGinnes, father 
of Lemuel E., was a native of Perry count}' 
and was born in 1812. He was well edu- 
cated, and his vocation was that of a teacher. 
He died in 1887. He married Sarah Ann 
Ditty, who survives him. 

Their son, Lemuel E. McGinnes, enjoyed 
usual educational advantages. His parents 
were intelligent and well educated people. 
The influences of his home were such as to 
stimulate him to mental effort from the 
very dawning of his intellectual life. He 
passed through the course of study in the 
public schools, and, as supplementary to 
this, he enjoyed tuition in good private 
schools and the instructions of the most 
competent private teachers. The aim of 
his parents was to qualify him for the pro- 
fession of teaching. He was inspired with 
lofty aims and equipped with all the in- 



tellectual furnishiugs he had the capacity 
to receive. When nineteen years of age he 
was ready to begin the business of life. He 
followed his ancestral bent and entered the 
ranks of the teachers. He began on the 
lower plane of the ungraded country school, 
and his first three terms were spent in get- 
ting hold of the practical elements of his 
art by the experience of actual relationship 
and contact between teacher and pupil. 
The lowest primary grade is as favorable a 
field for getting this experience as the high- 
est grade in the course. Promotion comes 
in due time to the patient toiler in the lower 
grades. It came to Mr. McGinnes in 1875, 
and the steps of his promotion were rapid 
and substantial. First came the principal- 
ship of the Lower Duncan non high school ; 
three years later the principalship of the 
Duncannon borough high school, and three 
years later, or in 1881, the principalship of 
the Steelton schools. Much was expected 
of him, and great demands were made on 
his ability and professional skill in this new 
position.- The most substantial business 
elements of the community, and especially 
the Pennsylvania Steel Company, had 
adopted the wise and beneficial policy of 
giving substantial aid to the educational 
interests of the rapidly developing indus- 
trial town. The most liberal provisions 
were made, in buildings and funds, for the 
best system of schools. Mr. McGinnes was 
placed at the head of this great enterprise. 
His native tastes and aspirations, his thor- 
ough education and his nine years of ex- 
perience combined to qualify him for his 
work. His success is phenomenal. At the 
end of seven years the system was perfected. 
From 1881 to 1888 he was principal of the 
high school and supervisor of all the de- 
partments, and in 1888 he was unanimously 
elected to the office of superintendent of the 
schools. This system of schools, so largely 
the creation of his hand, is the demonstra- 
tion of his ability, fidelity and professional 
devotion. Mr. McGinnes is interested in 
the community as a professional teacher. 
But his influence has a broader and deeper 
sweep and flow. He is deeply interested in 
morals and religion, and is an active force 
in the Christian and benevolent work of 
the town. He is an elder in the First Pres- 
byterian church, and his character and life 
show him to be a worthy incumbent of the 
high office. He was married, in 1879, to 
Miss Ida Clark, daughter of Hugh K. and 



982 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Ellen S.Wilson, of Perry county, in whom he 
finds a wife in full and cordial sympathy 
with him in his aims and efforts to advance 
society. They have one child, Ellen S. 



Landis, A. C, Steelton, was born in Cum- 
berland county, Pa., February 11, 1837. He 
is a son of Henry Landis. He obtained his 
education in Cumberland county. When a 
young man he learned the trade of tailor, 
and followed this occupation until 1861. At 
the breaking out of the war of the Rebel- 
lion, in 1861, he answered the first call for 
volunteers, and enlisted in the three months' 
service under C lonel Stumbaugh. At the 
end of the three months' service he enlisted 
for three years, in company K, One Hun- 
dred and Seventh regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, under Colonel Ziegler, of York, 
Pa. On August 28, 1864, was commissioned 
as captain of his company. He served on 
the staff of Gen. John P. Slough, military 
governor of Alexandria, Va. He partici- 
pated in the following battles : Cedar Moun- 
tain, August 9, 1862 ; Rappahannock, Au- 
gust 18 and 25 ; Thorough Gap, August 28 ; 
Bull Run, August 30; South Mountain, Sep- 
tember 14; Antietam, September 16 and 17; 
Sharpsburg, October 30; Bristow Station, 
December 12; Frederick, Va., December 13- 
15 ; Chancellorsville, January 21, 1861 ; Fitz- 
hugh's Crossing, April 28-30 ; Chancellors- 
ville, May 1-3; Gettysburg, July 1-3. At 
the close of the war Captain Landis came 
to Harrisburg and resumed work at his 
trade. He served as cutter for J. R. Croft 
for five years. After this he came to Steel- 
ton and took charge of the dr} r goods and 
clothing department of the Company's store, 
in which capacity he remained for fifteen 
years, when he resigned. He was instru- 
mental in organizing the Steelton Light, Heat 
and Power Company, and was elected secre- 
tary and treasurer of the company. He filled 
the office for two years, and then resigned. 
He has served in the borough council. He 
was the candidate of his party for the State 
Legislature. He is a Democrat, and is active 
in the movements of his party. He is a 
member of the Masonic order, Lodge No. 
351, Shippensburg. He has been president 
of the Steelton Board of Trade since its or- 
ganization, in 1888. In 1849 he married 
Miss Rebecca Allison, daughter of J. B. Alli- 
son, of Franklin county, by whom he had 
eight children. Mrs. Landis died in 1891. 
Their children are : Alfred M., born June 10, 



1859, married Miss Emma Steel, and lives at 
Landisburg ; Calvin D., born July 30, 1860, 
married Miss Nellie Galligan, who died in 
1895, leaving four children ; Annie M., born 
October 16, 1861, wife of George Brinser, of 
Steelton ; Florence B., born November 4, 
1864, wife of William Greist, of Steelton ; 
Harry J:, born February 11, 1867, married 
to Miss Lizzie Franklin, of Steelton : E. Maud, 
born .November 11, 1871, wife of James 
D. Banford, of Steelton ; William R., born 
February 25, 1869, died February 1, 1870 ; 
Charles A., born December 27, 1874, married 
Mary Weisman, of Harrisburg. 



Fletcher, Joseph A., Steelton, was born 
in Manchester, England, December 14, 1835. 
His father, William Fletcher, of Manchester, 
married Maria Whitaker, by whom he had 
five children : Sabina ; Edward ; Elizabeth, 
deceased ; William, who came to this country 
in 1867, and now resides in Middletown, 
Pa., and Joseph A. Mr. Fletcher died in 
1872 and his wife in 1873. 

Joseph A. received his education in the 
schools of England. Having learned the 
moulder's trade when a young man, he fol- 
lowed this occupation for seven years. In 
March, 1854, he came to this country, sailing 
on the sailing vessel Henry Clay. He lo- 
cated at Cold Springs, N. Y. Here he found 
employment at his trade and was busily en- 
gaged for three years. In 1857 the home 
feeling prevailed and he turned his face 
toward his English home and friends. Two 
years were sufficient to enable him to realize 
that this country offered him more oppor- 
tunities for rising in the world than he could 
find in his own county. In March, 1859, 
he returned to the United States, and again 
found a place to work at Cold Springs for 
one year. He was now complete master of 
the trade of moulder and iron worker. After 
leaving Cold Springs he was employed in 
steel mills in several different States. He 
fiually, in 1867, settled in Steelton, which 
has since that date been his permanent place 
of residence. He engaged with the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Company, first as overseer of 
the Bessemer melting department; for the 
next five years he had charge of the foundry 
for the same works. In 1874 he resigned 
his place with the Steel Company and went 
to Philadelphia, Pa., where he conducted a 
dry goods business until 1876. At this time 
he returned to Steelton and engaged in the 
hotel business. He demonstrated his ability 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



983 



in this line by keeping a good house and 
making this business profitable. In 1880 
he built the large hotel known as the 
Fletcher House, which he has since man- 
aged. Mr. Fletcher is one of the original 
stockholders and one of the largest investors 
in the Steelton Light, Heat and Power Com- 
pany. He has also been one of its directors 
since it was organized. He is also a stock- 
holder in the Harrisbnrg Trust Company, 
and in the Harrisburg Electric Light Com- 
pany. 

In 1861 he married Miss Margaret Arthur, 
of Troy, N. Y. They had eight children : 
Joseph A., Jr., married, and living at Spar- 
row's Point, Md., has five children ; Minnie; 
Bella, deceased; William Arthur; infant 
daughter, deceased ; Alfred ; Bella, deceased ; 
Charles deceased. His wife, Margaret (Ar- 
thur) Fletcher, died in March, 1885. He 
was married again in August, 1885, to Miss 
Martha Booser, daughter of Jacob Booser, of 
Hummelstown, by whom he has three chil- 
dren, Nellie E., Mary L., and Ambrose L. 
Mr. Fletcher is a member of the Masonic 
Lodge, No. 486, of Middletown, Pa., and 
joined Oriental Chapter and Kaclosh Com- 
mandery, of Philadelphia, in 1875. 



Dunkle, J. A., Steelton, Pa., was born in 
Dauphin county, Pa., September 11, 1834. 
His father, George Dunkle, was born in Lan- 
caster county in 1791; moved to Dauphin 
county with his father and family. He was 
the son of one of the pioneer settlers of Dau- 
phin county. He followed farming in the 
early part of his life, but was also a mer- 
chant and a wood worker. He was in the 
war of 1812, under General Foster. He 
died in 1847. He married Miss Susan Grei- 
ner, daughter of Andrew Greiner, of Dau- 
phin county. They had these children: 
George, Jacob, John, Washington, and Susan, 
deceased; the surviving ones are: Henry, 
J. A., and Peter, residing in Steelton. His 
wife, Susan, died in 1860. 

J. A. took the regular course in the schools 
of his time and place. He learned the car- 
penter's trade, and was a contractor and 
builder for twenty-one years. He built the 
first complete house ever erected in Steel- 
ton, then known as Baldwin, in the fall of 
1866. He has been interested in a business 
way in Steelton since 1866, and has had his 
residence here since 1880. In 1865 he be- 
came engaged more particularly in the real 
estate business. He laid out a large por- 



tion of Steelton, Highland, now Enhaut, 
Benton, and parts of Oberlin, being asso- 
ciated with a Mr. Ewing in laying out East- 
mere. For several years he was a resident 
of Oberlin. He was also interested in other 
branches of business. For a time he dealt 
in coal and lumber. He and Mr. J. B. 
Ewing organized the Harrisburg Boiler and 
Manufacturing Company in 1880, and he 
has served as director in the company since 
its organization. He was one of the organ- 
izers of the Steelton Light, Heat and Power 
Company, and served as director in the 
company from 1890 to 1894. He is a mem- 
ber of the Board of Trade of Harrisburg. 
He is connected with the furniture store of 
Dunkle & Co. 

In 1857 he married Miss Mary Bishop, 
daughter of William Bishop, near Oberlin, 
Pa., by whom he had these children : Ellen, 
wife of Dr. J. H. Snavely, Steelton, has 
five children ; Catherine, wife of Abraham 
Dunkle, Steelton, has five children ; Samuel 
F., married Miss Jessie Sefton, of Carlisle, 
Pa., is engaged with his father as manager 
of the sales department of the Harrisburg 
Boiler Company ; Elizabeth, wife of F. H. 
Alleman, of Steelton, has four children ; 
Amos W., married Miss Barnett, of Steelton, 
has one child; Maggie, living at home. Mr. 
Dunkle was the originator of the Citizens' 
Passenger Railway Company from Oberlin 
to Harrisburg. He was president of the 
company for the first few years of its exist- 
ence and is at present one of its directors. 
He was also for several years interested in 
the hardware and stove business. 



Sultzaberger, D. O.. Steelton, Pa., was 
born in York county, Pa., August 25, 1854. 
His father, Israel Sultzaberger, was born in 
York county, August 2, 1828, and died Au- 
gust 24, 1893. He married Miss Juliana 
Binneman, daughter of Henry Binneman ; 
she died August 1, 1859. They had six 
children : Peter, deceased ; Mary Jane, wife 
of Peter Snyder, of York county ; Eliza Ann, 
deceased ; D. O.; W. H., married and living 
in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland county, Pa.; 
Elizabeth, deceased. In 1860 he married, 
for his second wife, Miss Julianna Stouffer, 
of York county, who died August 10. 1893, 
aged seventy years, ten months and twenty- 
four days. 

D. O. was educated in the common schools 
of York county. In early life he was em- 
ployed in farming. At nineteen years of age 



984 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



he went to learn the carpenter trade, and 
followed this occupation until he was thirty 
years of age. In 1885 he engaged in the 
coal business, which he has carried on since 
that time. In the fall of 1875 he came to 
Steelton, where he first worked for ten years 
as a carpenter, and then embarked in the 
coal business, under the firm name of Couffer 
& Sultzaberger. He has an interest in the 
Steelton Light, Heat and Power Company. 
In the spring of 1885 he was elected to the 
borough council of Steelton for a term of 
three years. In 1886 he married Miss Lillie 
Rank, born March 1, 1860; daughter of Sam- 
uel Rank, of Harrisburg. They have one 
child, Clarence I., born November 4, 1892. 
Mr. Sultzaberger is a Republican and en- 
gages actively and with much interest in all 
the undertakings of his party. 



Shope, A. L., M. D., Oberlin, Pa., was born 
in Oberlin, October 16, 1868. He is a son of 
A. H. Shope. His great-grandfather, Jacob 
Shope, was a native of Germany. He came 
to Dauphin county, married, and reared a 
family of children, all of whom are dead. 
His son, Abraham Shope, grandfather of Dr. 
Shope, was a weaver. Early in life he en- 
gaged in mercantile business, and later in 
farming. His first wife was a Miss Wasser, 
daughter of Dr. Wasser, who came from Eu- 
rope. They had five children: Elizabeth, 
born September 8, 1811, deceased; John, 
born March 27, 1815 ; Abram, born July 24, 
1817, deceased ; Jacob, born September 6, 
1819; David, born April 1, 1826. His sec- 
ond wife was Elizabeth McFadden. Their 
children were as follows: Cornelius, born 
May 18, 1831 ; Elias P., born November 25, 
1833, deceased; Mary Ann, born April 17, 
1836; George W., born August 13, 1838; 
Priscilla, born March 30, 1841 ; Adam H., 
born December 27, 1844; Susan, born Feb- 
ruary 28, 1848. 

C. B. Shope, uncle of Dr. Shope, was edu- 
cated in the common schools of Dauphin 
county. When a young man he was occu- 
pied in farming, and later he learned car- 
pentry. In 1863 he engaged in the butch- 
ering business, in Churchville, now known as 
Oberlin, in which he continued until 1883. 
Since that year he has been unable, on ac- 
count of failing health, to attend to busi- 
ness. He was married, February 8, 1852, 
to Matilda. Lose, born July 18,1824, in Lan- 
caster county, a daughter of Abraham Lose. 
They had two children : William W., born 



January 25, 1853, at Harrisburg ; and C. B., 
Jr., born March 22, 1866, at Harrisburg. His 
wife died in September, 1866. His second 
wife was Mary A., daughter of John Bals- 
bach, born June 11, 1828. He is much in- 
terested in church work. He is connected 
with the United Brethren church, and has 
been superintendent of the Sunday-school 
for about fifteen years. 

A. H. Shope, son of Abram Shope, was 
born December 27, 1844. His father was 
born November 16, 1788, and died Septem- 
ber 16, 1854. His mother, Elizabeth Shope, 
was born October 30, 1806, and died Jan- 
uary 11, 1879. He was educated in the com- 
mon schools of Dauphin county. He was 
engaged in farm work until lie was sixteen 
years old, when he entered the drug store of 
Shope & Orth, in Hummelstown, as clerk, 
and remained there until 1863. At that date 
he enlisted in the Thirty-sixth regiment, 
Pennsylvania militia, for three months. He 
was afterwards in the butchering business, 
in Harrisburg and at Oberlin. From 1879 
to 1882 he was in mercantile business. In 
1884 he was elected director of the poor, in 
which office he served for three years, and 
was re-elected for a second term, serving 
until 1890. He has ever since been engaged 
in general mercantile business, to the time 
of this writing, October, 1895. He married 
Miss Jane Reighart, daughter of John Reig- 
hart, of Dauphin county, who died Decem- 
ber 23, 1890, leaving him one child. He 
married, on May 16,1893, Ida V., daughter 
of Jacob Heckert. He is a stockholder in 
the Hummelstown Bank. 

Dr. A. L. Shope took the usual course of 
study in the schools, but with some varia- 
tions. When a very young man he was a 
news agent in Oberlin for four years. He 
picked up the trade of painting, and carried 
it on during the summer months. In winter 
he continued his studies. He acquired his 
preliminary education at the Academy in 
Steelton. In 1886 he put himself under the 
instruction of Dr. Putt, of Oberlin, and 
began reading medicine with that gentle- 
man as his preceptor. In 1887 he entered 
the Jefferson Medical College, at Philadel- 
phia, and was graduated in 1890. In the 
spring of that year he located in Oberlin, 
where he has since enjoyed an extensive 
practice. He was married, in October, 1895, 
to Miss Emma, daughter of Daniel and 
Mary Wagner, of Dauphin county. 

George Shope, uncle of Dr. A. L., left 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



985 



home in 1854, at the age of sixteen years. 
He weDt to Marion count}', Iowa, and re- 
mained two years; then to Strong county, 
Iowa, where he engaged in farming. He 
married, in Iowa, a Miss Ellen Sesson, by 
whom he has four sons: Edwin, Charles, 
William, and Albert. He removed to Des 
Moines, Iowa, where he has since resided. 
He was married, a second time, to Mrs. Post ; 
they have one son, George W., Jr. He has 
served as city treasurer for two terms. He 
was cashier of the Grand Avenue Savings 
Bank until October, 1895, when he retired. 
He takes an active part in politics in con- 
nection with the Republican party. 



Schaffner, D. W., M. D., Enhaut, Pa., 
was born at Berryburg, Dauphin county, 
February 17, 1857. He is a son of Daniel 
Schaffner, a sketch of whom appears else- 
where in this volume. His early education 
he received in the common schools of Dau- 
phin count}'. He also studied at Palatinate 
College, Meyerstown, Lebanon county. His 
first employment was teaching school ; he 
taught in West and South Hanover town- 
ships. In 1882 he began reading medicine 
with Dr. W. C- Baker, of Hummelstown. In 
1883 he entered the University of Maryland, 
and graduated in 1887. In the same year 
he located in Highland, now known as En- 
haut. This name was given to the place by 
Dr. Schaffner. He began the practice of 
medicine here, and has continued it since 
that time. He has been successful, and now 
enjoys an extensive practice. Dr. Schaffner 
is a member of the Dauphin County Medi- 
cal Society, and also of the State Medical 
Society. He is interested as a stockholder 
in the Harrisburg Traction Company. In 
1888 he married Miss Frances H, daughter 
of Isaac Beinhower, of Oberlin, Pa. They 
have one child, Meade D., born April 24, 
1895. The Doctor is identified with the 
Democratic party. He is town committee- 
man. He was the organizer of the band, 
and is the treasurer of the Industrial Sav- 
ings and L6an Company, the main office of 
which is in Syracuse, N. Y. 



Middleton, William John, M. D., was 
born in Philadelphia, Pa., January 9, 1858. 
He is the eldest son of John A. Middleton 
and Margaret Ann Gamble. He is descended 
from one of three brothers who came to New 
Jersey before the days of William Penn.; 
two of them remained in New Jersey, while 



one removed to South Carolina. The fam- 
ily removed early to Philadelphia. The 
name of Aaron Middleton, mariner, the 
great-great-grandfather of Dr. Middleton, 
appears in the first directory of the city. 
Margaret A. Gamble was the second daugh- 
ter of Wiliiam Gamble, who grew to man- 
hood inLeacock township, Lancaster county, 
Pa., and belonged to a company among the 
troops from that county which served at 
Baltimore in the war of 1812. He became 
Captain Gamble in 1814. He afterwards 
married Elizabeth Richardson, a daughter 
of the famous family of linen manufacturers 
of Belfast, Ireland. 

The parents of Dr. Middleton removed to 
Harrisburg in 1869. He received a common 
school education in that city. In 1876 he 
began the study of medicine with Dr. George 
R. Hursh, then a busy practitioner, residing 
on North Second street. He received the de- 
gree of M. D. from Jefferson Medical College 
in March, 1879, returned to Harrisburg, and 
at once began to practice his profession there. 
He was elected assistant dispensary physi- 
cian to the Harrisburg Hospital, and served 
in that capacity for several months. Upon 
his retirement from the place the Board of 
Managers voted him their thanks. In Janu- 
ary, 1881, Dr. Middleton formed a partner- 
ship with Dr. W. J. Kline, of Greensburg, 
Pa., where he remained a little over a year. 
In the spring of 1882 he received the ap- 
pointment of surgeon to the Juragua Iron 
Company, of Santiago de Cuba, and served 
the company at their mines, east of Santiago, 
for fifteen months. In November, 1884, he 
came to Steeltou as surgeon to the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Company, which office he re- 
signed in 1888 to devote himself to the prac- 
tice of his profession in Steelton. In April, 
1888, he married Lavinia Sterling Towson, 
of Baltimore. They have three sons : Wil- 
liam Towson, born in 1889 ; Albert Gamble, 
in 1890; and Leonard Reynolds, in 1892. Dr. 
Middleton. still resides in Steelton, and con- 
ducts a general practice. He enjoys the 
confidence and esteem of the best people in 
the community, and is justly regarded as 
one of the leading men in his profession. 



Eshenaur, H. G., Oberlin, Pa., was born 
in Lower Swatara township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., October, 1843. His grandfather, 
Christian Eshenaur, was a native of Ger- 
many, and was one of the pioneer settlers of 
the county. He was a farmer. He married 



986 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



and reared a family of children, sis sons and 
one daughter: John, Andrew, Jacob, Chris- 
tian, Leonard, Youckle, and Catherine, all 
of whom are dead. Frederick Eshenaur, son 
of Christian, and father of H. G.; was born 
in 1807. He spent his life on the farm, and 
died in 1857. He married Miss Mary, daugh- 
ter of Henry Gayman. Mr. Gayman died 
in 1885, on his ninety-ninth birthday. To 
this marriage were born four children : 
Nancy, wife of Isaac Coble ; Christiana, wife 
of John Zell, of Franklin county ; H. G.; and 
Jacob, deceased, married Anne Booser; two 
children survive him, Henry and Katie. 
George Eshenaur was a son of Christian 
Eshenaur, of Dauphin county. 

H. G. Eshenaur was educated in the com- 
mon schools of Dauphin county. He began 
early in life as a farmer, and made farming 
his life occupation. In 1893, at fifty years 
of age, he removed from the farm to Oberlin, 
where he has since lived retired from active 
business. He is a director of the Citizens' 
Passenger Railway Company and a stock- 
holder in his company. He has been one 
of the board of directors since the organiza- 
tion of the company. He was instrumental 
in the laying out of the town of Benton. He 
is public spirited, taking an interest in all 
that promotes the growth and prosperity of 
the community. He was married, in 1868, 
to Miss Eshenaur, daughter of George Eshe- 
naur, by whom he has seven children : Har- 
vey, married Miss Smelcher, daughter of 
William Smelcher, of Swatara township, and 
is engaged in farming on the old homestead 
in that township; William J., living at Car- 
lisle, Pa., editor of the Carlisle Leader, a 
weekly paper; Mamie, living at home; 
Emma, living at home; Ernest Earl, and 
Vernie Pearl, twins. 



Houck, Isaac, Enhaut, Pa., was born in 
Northampton county, Pa., December 6, 1839. 
He is a son of Adam Houck, a native of 
Northampton county, born in 1813. He was a 
collier, and was also to some extent engaged 
in farming. He came in 1840 to Dauphin 
county, where he lived until his death in 
18S0. He married and reared a family of 
five children : John, deceased, married Susan 
Smith, who with several children survives 
him ; Charles, deceased, died shortly after 
three years' service in the defense of his 
country, married Sarah Jane Herman, who 
with one child survives him ; Rebecca, wife 
of Henry Zimmerman, living in Iowa : Juli- 



ana, widow of Jacob Laudermilch, has five 
children, lives at Oberlin; and Isaac. 

Isaac Houck, when about one year old, 
came with his parents to Dauphin county. 
He acquired his education in the common 
schools. When he was fourteen years old he 
went to the West, settled in Indiana and en- 
gaged in farming, remaining five years. In 
1858 he returned to Dauphin county, and 
was there occupied with farming until 1870. 
He then found employment with the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Company in the Bessemer de- 
partment. From this department he was 
transferred to the forge mill, and from this 
to the rail department, where he has since 
remained. During the late war he was in 
the service of the Government as a teamster. 
In the spring of 1865 he was in Lycoming 
county, near Pine Creek, during the flood 
which occurred that year. In 1860 he mar- 
ried Miss Sarah, daughter of Benjamin Mef- 
fort, of Dauphin countv. Mr. Meffort died 
September 24, 1884; his wife in March, 1879. 
They have had twelve children, ten of whom 
are living: John A., born September 27, 
1861, engaged with the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company, married Emma Keller; Mary E., 
born August 8, 1863, wife of Emery E. 
Holmes ; Margaret E., born February 2, 
1866, wife of Jacob Pathamore, of Enhaut; 
Charles 0., born February 15, 1868, married 
Mattie Morrison, of Huntingdon county ; 
Christiana, born April 7, 1870, wife of H. T. 
Hoy ; William B., born April 14, 1872, mar- 
ried Martha Prowl, of York county; Susan 
J., born May 8, 1874, living at home ; Ed- 
ward, born March 1, 1877 ; Rebecca, born 
March 2, 1879; J. Sylvester and Perly Esther, 
twins, born December 29, 1880; the former 
died January 6, 1881, the latter February 
24, 1881 ; Bertha May, born January 10, 
1883. 



Snavely, M. N., Enhaut, Pa., was born in 
Swatara township, Dauphin county, January 
20, 1840. His father, Jacob Snavely, was a 
farmer. He was an active member of the 
United Brethren church, and served it for 
many years as pastor. He died, March, 1891, 
at the age of eighty-three. He married Miss 
Barbara Nissley, by whom he had seven 
children: John, of Steel ton ; Anna, wife of 
Solomon Landis, of Union Deposit ; Jacob, 
deceased, shot while serving in the defense 
of his country in 1862 ; Solomon, living in 
Michigan ; M. N.; Susan, wife of Franklin 
Balsbach, living near Hummelstown ; Bar- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



987 



bara, widow of Jacob Eberly, whose first bus- 
band was Harry Graybill. The second wife 
of Jacob Snavely was Elizabeth, daughter of 
John Walters, of Dauphin county. They 
had six children, five of whom are living: 
Michael, retired merchant, residing in Har- 
risburg; Mary, wife of Christian Knupp, 
of Oberlin, Pa.; Emma, died in youth ; 
Ellen, living in Steelton, and Samuel Ed- 
ward, living in Harrisburg, are twins; 
Maggie, wife of S. C. Lehman, of Steelton. 

M. N. Snavely has resided all his life in 
his native township. He received his edu- 
cation in the schools of Dauphin county, 
and afterwards learned carpentry, which 
was his occupation for a number of years. 
He also made contracting a part of his busi- 
ness, and was to some extent employed in 
house painting. In 1861 he enlisted for the 
defense of his country in the nine months' 
service. He served under Capt. John J. 
Ball and Col. W. W. Jennings. He partici- 
pated in the battle of Fredericksburg. At the 
end of the term he was honorably discharged. 
He then resumed his business as carpenter 
and contractor, which he followed until 
1889. He then succeeded James Shimmel 
in the general mercantile establishment, 
which he has since conducted. He was 
married, November 11, 1873, to Miss Erne- 
line, daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Bein- 
lauer) Boyer, who was born January 27, 
1853. Mrs. Catherine Boyer died April, 
1894, aged seventy-five years and six months. 
Mr. Jacob Boyer was born in 1814, and is 
still living. Mr. and Mrs. M. N. Snavely 
have eight children : Naomi Jane, born SeD- 
tember 16, 1874 ; Jacob Boyer, July 7, 1876 ; 
Agnes A., December 19, 1877 ; Harry Gar- 
field, April 9, 1881 ; James Blaine, Novem- 
ber 14, 1883; Charles Edward, Julv 14, 
1885; Franklin Harison, May 21, 1888; 
George Edward, February 2, 1891. 



Still, Samuel G., Enhaut, Pa., was 
born in Cumberland county, Pa., January 
30, 1865. His father, Thomas M. Still, 
was born in Adams county, in 1829. He 
had limited educational advantages, and 
worked as a laborer until he was twenty-five 
years of age. He was a man of sincere piety 
and felt called to preach the gospel. His 
brethren recognized the genuineness of his 
conviction of duty and formally set him 
apart and ordained him to the ministry. 
Mr. Still, feeling his lack of early training, 
set about preparing himself for his work. 



He had strong natural gifts, which by obser- 
vation and study he developed and strength- 
ened. He pursued his work with tireless 
industry, ardent devotion and unquenchable 
zeal. He was warm-hearted and attractive 
and drew about him devoted friends. He 
preached in many counties of this State and 
was engaged in this work until the close of 
his life. Few men in the eldership have 
accomplished better results for the church 
than were secured by this consecrated man 
in the thirty-three years of his ministry. 
He died suddenly, of neuralgia of the heart, 
at his home in Woodbury, Bedford county, 
Pa., July 27, 1883, and was buried at High- 
land, near Harrisburg. He is remembered 
with esteem and gratitude by thousands who 
heard the gospel through his persuasive 
voice. He was married to Miss Anna Leah 
Besecker, of Adams county, by whom he 
had seven children : Charles, deceased ; 
Ruhama C, wife of Amos Byrum, of Steel- 
ton ; Duffield, deceased ; Levi H, living in 
Perry county, Pa.; John, deceased; Samuel 
G.; Anna M., wife of Stewart Barnes. 

Samuel G. Still received his education in 
the schools of Dauphin county. He was en- 
gaged in farm work until he was fourteen 
years old, and from that time until he was 
eighteen was employed in mining ore in 
Lancaster county. For the past thirteen 
years he has been in the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Steel Works. He was married, 
in 1887, to Miss Anna, daughter of William 
P. and Hannah (Downing) McNew, of Balti- 
more, Md. They have five children: 
Thomas Williams, born February 27, 1888 ; 
Hannah L., October 28, 1889; Samuel G., 
Jr., May 25, 1892 ; Anna Cora, February 11, 
1894, died July 22, 1894 ; Ruby Catherine, 
March 25, 1895, died August 22, 1895. Mr. 
Still is a Republican. He and his wife are 
active members of the Church of God, in 
Enhaut. 



Garverich, James W., Enhaut, Pa., was 
born in Lebanon county, Pa., January 29, 
1854. His father, John Adam Garverich, 
was a native of the same county, and married 
Sybilla Weaver, of Bethel township, Lebanon 
count}'. They had one child, James W. 
The second husband of Mrs. Garverich was 
John Kindt, a native of Germany; by this 
marriage she had twelve children : Mary C, 
deceased ; Elizabeth ; S. Sophia, deceased ; 
Nanilla K., deceased ; Gedaliah H., Caroline, 
Magdalena, Annie R., Ida, Jacob, and Sam- 



988 



BIO GRA PSICA L ENCYUL OPEDIA 



uel and Amanda H., deceased. Mr. and Mrs. 
Kindt are living in Lebanon county. 

James W. received his education in the 
schools of Lebanon county. He began when 
a young man to work on the farm, and was 
so engaged until 1881. At this date he came 
to Highland, Dauphin county, and found 
employment with the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company, in which he remained until 1892 ; 
he was employed in the Bessemer department. 
Since 1892 he has been in the cigar, tobacco 
and confectionery business in Enhaut. He 
belongs to the Republican party, and is active 
in all party movements. He has served on 
the county committee for nine years, and 
also as a delegate to the county convention. 
In 1893 he was appointed tax collector for 
Swatara township, and served for one year. 
In 1892 he was elected assessor of Swatara 
township for a three years' term, and after- 
wards re-elected for a second term. He was 
a charter member of the Citizens' Passenger 
Railway Company formed in 1893. In 1870 
he was married to Miss Lucetta Moyer, of 
Lebanon county. They have had two chil- 
dren : John H., born in 1870, died August 
13, 1892, aged twenty-two ; and Lizzie 0., 
born in 1876, living at home. Mr. Garver- 
ich and his family are members of the United 
Brethren church, in wdiose work he takes an 
active interest ; he is an official member. 
Mr. Garverich was president of the Citizens' 
Band of Highland for a number of years. 

John B. Moyer, the father of Mrs. J. W. 
Garverich, is a farmer in Lebanon county, 
and a prominent man in his neighborhood. 
He married Miss Lydia Kriser, by whom he 
has three children : Grant, Emma, and John. 
His first wife was Miss Wagner; her children 
were two in number: Sarah, and Lucetta, 
married to Mr. Garverich. 



Espenshade, Chkistian, Oberlin, Pa., was 
born in Dauphin county in 1849. His father, 
Jacob Espenshade, was a native of the same 
county, where he spent his life. He was a 
farmer. He married Margaret Ebens. They 
had eight children : Mary, wife of Peter Bow- 
man ; A^alentine, Susanna, Christian, and 
Jacob, living ; and Solomon, Elizabeth, and 
Henry, deceased. He died in 1878, aged 
seventy-two years; his wife in 1888, at the 
age of seventy -seven. 

Christian Espenshade acquired his educa- 
tion in the common schools of Dauphin 
county. He began life as a farmer ; for some 
time he worked as a miner in the Lykens 



Valley, but afterwards resumed farming and 
continued in that occupation for several years. 
Since 1880 he has been engaged in the Besse- 
mer department of the works of the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Company, at Steelton. He has 
always been a resident of Dauphin county. 
In politics he is a Republican. In 1870 he 
married Miss Hoffman, daughter of Jacob 
and Eliza (Musser) Hoffman ; they have five 
children : Charles F., Harry E., Jacob W., 
Laura F., and Christian C. Jacob Hoffman, 
the father of Mrs. Christian Espenshade, mar- 
ried Eliza Musser, by whom he had six chil- 
dren ; three are living : Maggie, Mrs. Espen- 
shade, and John ; the three deceased were : 
Jacob, Sarah and Harry. 



The Livingston Family — John Living- 
ston, a native of York county, Pa., was the 
first of the family to settle in Dauphin 
county, having come in 1804, or 1805. He 
purchased the tract of land on which the 
town of Enhaut is located, and lived upon 
it until his death. He was a farmer and a 
prominent citizen. He belonged to the Old 
River Brethren. His wife was Catherine 
Brin ser, daughter of a Mr. Brinser who was 
an early settler of Londonderry township. 
They had five children : John, born in 1804, 
died 1865 ; Abraham, 1806-1864 ; Matthias, 
1811-1846 ; Jacob, 1808-1885 ; and Catherine, 
1817-1893. 

His son, Abraham Livingston, was born 
in 1806 in Dauphin county, where he spent 
his life. He was educated in the common 
schools of the county. He was a post and 
fence maker, and also carried on farming to 
some extent. He was a member of the 
Dunkard denomination and took an active 
interest in all church matters. He married 
Elizabeth Eshelman, daughter of Peter 
Eshelman, of Londonderry township. They 
had six children : Jacob, of Enhaut ; John ; 
Peter, died at the age of nineteen years; 
Abraham, died at the age of two years; 
Benjamin, died in infancy ; Mary, wife of 
John Shoffer, of Benton, Pa. 

Jacob Livingston, eldest son of Abraham 
Livingston, was born in Dauphin county in 
1833, and received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of the county. When a young 
man he was occupied with farming, in con- 
nection with his father. After marriage he 
began farming on his own account, con- 
tinuing it until 1871. For four years from 
that date he was engaged in lime burning. 
In 1876 he was employed by the Pennsyl- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



991 



Vania Steel Company and continued for 
eight years. Since 1884 he has carried on a 
general mercantile business in Enhaut. 
He is Republican in politics. Mr. Living- 
ston was married, in 1853, to Miss Rebecca, 
daughter of John Livingston. Their chil- 
dren are : Catherine, born 1855, died 1859 ; 
John W., born 1859, living at Enhaut, mar- 
ried Nancy Rengle ; Ephraim G., born 1867, 
died 1869 ; Harry Jacob, born 1871, mar- 
ried to Florence, daughter of George Keim. 

John Livingston, second son of Abra- 
ham Livingston, was born in Dauphin 
county, in 1837. His educational advan- 
tages were such as the schools of his native 
county afforded. His first business was 
farming, but his occupations were varied. He 
was at different times engaged in boating, 
stone quarrjdng and lime burning. From 
1872 to 1884 he was employed by the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Company. Since the latter 
date he has lived retired from business. 
He has resided on the present location of 
Enhaut since 1846, a constant resident of 
Swatara township. He has served as school 
director of Enhaut since 1880. He is a Re- 
publican and is interested and active in 
politics. He has served as delegate for 
many years. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the United Brethren church, in 
which he has for the past fifteen years been 
steward and trustee. In 1880 he married 
Catherine, daughter of John Livingston. 
They have one son, Morris, of Steelton, em- 
ployed by the Pennsylvania Steel Company. 

John Livingston, the father of Mrs. Jacob 
and Mrs. John Livingston, married Sarah 
Ludwig. He was a weaver. Their children 
are : Catherine, wife of John Livingston ; 
Elizabeth, wife of Nicholas Hanger; Re- 
becca, wife of Jacob Livingston ; Mary, wife 
of William Davis ; Leah, widow of Charles 
Pazey. 

Jacob Livingston, son of John Livingston, 
Sr., was born in 1808, and married Mary 
Sheets, by whom he had two children: 
Lydia, wife of Christ. Gorman; and Susanna, 
wife of Michael Gross. His second wife was 
Susan Martin; they had two sons: Jacob, 
died at the age of nineteen years ; and 
Joseph, married a Miss Straw, and has a 
family. 

Matthias Livingston, son of John Livings- 
ton, Sr., was born in 1811, and married 
Elizabeth Eshelman ; their children were: 
Mary, wife of George Killheifer ; Catherine, 
wife of a Mr. Smith, living in the West ; 
62 



Elizabeth, wife of Harrison Stroup, both de- 
ceased; Joseph, enlisted in the defense of 
his country in 1861, served until the close of 
the war, was honorably discharged, and died 
on his way home ; Catherine, wife of Jacob 
Beinhauer, deceased, by whom she had 
three children : Jacob, Adam, and Cath- 
erine. 



Gardner, Adam Henry, treasurer of 
Steelton, was born January 6, 1835 ; son of 
Barnhart and Mary (Trostle) Gardner. His 
great-grandfather, Barnhart Gardner, with 
his wife, whose maiden name was Barbara 
Weidman, emigrated from Bremen, Ger- 
many, and settled in Lancaster county, Pa,, 
prior to the American Revolutionary war. 
Their children, all of whom settled along the 
Conewago and Berunding creeks, in the 
western part of York county, before the year 
1800, were named as follows : Adam, Will- 
iam, Barnhart, Martin, Jacob, John, Christo- 
pher, George, and Margaret. William, the 
second of these children, was married and 
lived on the bank of Conewago creek, where 
he had a family of six children : John, Barn- 
hart, William, Adam, Sarah, and Margaret. 
Barnhart, the second of these, was born in 
1794, died April 5, 1859, and is buried in 
Bender's Church cemetery, Adams county. 
He married Mary Trostle, daughter of George 
and Catherine Trostle, of near Gettysburg, 
Adams county. She was born June 27, 1 805, 
died May 4, 1886, and was buried,in Filey's 
Church cemetery, York county. Barnhart 
was a member of the Reformed church, and 
his wife Mary belonged to the Lutheran 
church. Their children were named : Frank- 
lin, born April 6, 1827, died January 6, 1833 ; 
William, born April 25, 1829, a farmer, mar- 
ried Margaretta Wilson, January 18, 1855, 
and resides near Satank, Garfield county, 
Colo., with his wife and children, Ella, Flor- 
ence, and Emma ; George Washington, a 
wheelwright by occupation, born September 
11, 1831, died July 13, 1861, married Sarah 
Wilson, of Illinois, and settled in Kansas, 
where he died, leaving one child, Emma; 
John T., born March 27, 1833, a farmer, near 
Toulon, 111, married Philura Bliss, and had 
three children, Edith, Alice, and George; 
Adam Henry ; Mary Jane, born January 2, 
1837, married Michael W. Coover, a farmer 
of York county. Pa., January 18, 1855, and 
has eight children : William, Annie, Ella, 
Laura, Daniel, Sallie, Carrie, and Emma ; 
Lydia Ann, born March 2, 1S39, married 



992 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Edward Arnold, of Dillsburg, York county, 
September. 18, 1857, and have three children, 
Alice, Kate, and Emma; Sarah Elizabeth, 
born February 5, 1841, married John H. 
Gluck, of Lehmasters, Franklin county, Pa., 
and have two children deceased, Leila and 
Charles Nisley ; Daniel Barnhart, born July 
20, 1850, died September 13, 1880, married 
Emma Davis, of Ashtabula, Ohio, and settled 
in Greenleaf, Kan., where his widow subse- 
quently married W. F. Mudgett. 

Adam Henry Gardner was married, May 
23, .1867, by the Rev. William Raber, at Me- 
chanicsburg, Cumberland county, Pa., to 
Fannie C. Smith, daughter of Jacob and 
Mary (Campbell) Smith. He resided for 
some time at Eberly's Mills, and on Novem- 
ber 12, 1875, removed to Steelton, Dauphin 
county, where he accepted employment with 
the Pennsylvania Steel Company as store- 
house clerk, which position he still holds. 
When the borough of Steelton was incor- 
porated in 1880 Mr. Gardner was elected bor- 
ough treasurer, and has continued to fill this 
important and responsible position ever 
since. He cast his first presidential vote for 
John C. Fremont, and has ever since been 
an ardent Republican. He is a. member of 
the Royal Arcanum, Steelton Council, No. 
933, and Past Regents Association of Penn- 
sylvania. He has been a member of the 
United. Brethren church since 18G0. His 
children are: John Comfort, who died when 
seventeen months old; Emma Elizabeth, 
( leorge Smith, Harry Daniel, Annie Laurie, 
and Percival Jacob. 



mandery, No. 393. He was married, in 
1883, to Miss Carrie McClellan, daughter of 
John Snavely, of Steelton. They have two 
children, Eva May and Russell H. Mr. Dif- 
fenderfer and his family are members of the 
United Brethren church. 



Diffenderfer, Jonah G, burgess of Steel- 
ton and superintendent of the finishing and 
shipping department of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company, was born in Marietta, Lan- 
caster county, Pa., October 24, 1859. He is 
# a son of William and Annie (Gelsbaugh) 
' Diffenderfer, now of Highspire, Dauphin 
county. His youth was spent in York 
county, where iie received a common school 
education. He learned carpentry, and 
worked at it for five years. In 1880 he came 
to Steelton, and entered the employ of the 
Pennsylvania Steel Company, in the rail de- 
partment, and in 1890 ho was appointed to 
bis present position. Mr. Diffenderfer is a 
Republican; in 1894 he was elected burgess 
of Steelton. He is a member of Steelton 
Lodge, No. 184, I. O. O. F.; of P. O. S. of A.; 
of Royal Arcanum, and of Steelton Com- 



Knisely, John P., grocer, was born in 
Shepberdstown, Cumberland county, Pa., 
August 14, 1866. He is a son of A. Y. and 
Annie B.(Grable) Knisely. Mr. A.Y. Knisely 
was born in York county, Pa., March 23, 
1843. His parents were Peter and Matilda 
(Seitz) Knisely. He was reared in York and 
Cumberland counties, and was a farmer. 
He married Miss Annie B. Grable in 1865. 
He located in Maryland, and removed to 
Mechanicsburg, Cumberland county, and 
afterwards to Steelton. He was in mercan- 
tile business, but relinquished it in 1895, and 
has since been in the fire insurance and the 
building and loan business. He served for 
two terms in the borough council of Steel- 
ton, having been elected on the People's 
ticket. In 1861 he enlisted, and served 
three years and nine months. He is past 
commanderof Lascomb Post, No. 351, G. A. R. 
lie also belongs to the Knights of Malta, the 
I. O. O. F., and the Royal Arcanum. He lias 
five children : John P.; Elsie M., wife of 
Isaac Lehman, of Virginia; Annie U, wife 
of Thomas Keim, of Steelton ; Edith L., wife 
of Melvin C. Conklin, of Steelton ; and Jen- 
nie S. Mr. Knisely is a member of the United 
Brethren church, and secretary of its board 
of trustees. 

John P. Knisely attended the Steelton 
public schools, and wasgradua'ed from them 
in LSS4. In the same year he engaged with 
his father in the clothing and gentlemen's 
furnishing business, in which he continued 
until 1892, when he purchased his present 
grocery business, established by his fattier 
in 1890. Mr. Knisely is a Republican. He 
belongs to the Knights of Malta. He was 
married, in 1888, to Miss Minnie, daughter 
of Rev. Lewis Peters, deceased, of Steelton. 
They have three children : Edna M., H. 
Lloyd, and Lester P. He and his wife are 
members of the United Brethren church, in 
which he is prominent. He is superintend- 
ent of the Sunday-school, church organist, 
and president of the Christian Endeavor 
Union. Mr. Knisely is chairman of the 
" Good Citizenship Association," of Steelton. 



bAUPHIN COUNTY. 



993 



Morris, Milton K., master mechanic, 
Pennsylvania Steel Company, was born in 
Chester county, Pa., November 19, 1842. He 
is a son of William and Eleanor (Fletcher) 
Morris, natives of Chester county. William 
Morris was a locomotive engineer and after- 
wards road supervisor of the Harrisburg and 
Lancaster railroad. He removed to Harrisburg 
in 1853, and commenced hotel keeping. He 
was proprietor of the " White Swan," " Will- 
iam Tell," "Red Lion," and "Pennsylvania 
Avenue" hotels, at different periods. He 
died in Pittsburgh in 1875 while a delegate 
to the State convention of the A. 0. U. W. 

Milton K. Morris Avas eleven years old 
when his parents removed to Harrisburg. 
He was educated there in the public schools 
and the Harrisburg Academy. He learned 
the machinist's trade with W. 0. Hickok. 
He was employed by P. A. Moltz, of Will- 
iamsport, Pa., and afterwards purchased the 
business of Jacob Moltz, in Harrisburg, and 
conducted it for two years. In 1861 he en- 
listed in the three months' service, but was 
too young to be mustered in. In 1863 he en- 
listed in Capt. Asbury Awl's company. In 
1S64 the Government sent him to Alexandria, 
Va., where he was employed for eighteen 
months as a machinist and locomotive engi- 
neer. He then worked in the navy yard at 
Washington, D. C, until the close of the war. 
He. was in the audience at Ford's Theater, in 
Washington, when President Lincoln was as- 
sassinated. After the close of the war Mr. 
Morris worked in the Altoona shops of the 
Pennsylvania railroad for several years. In 
1870 he came to Steelton and entered the em- 
ploy of the Pennsylvania Steel Company, in 
which he has ever since continued, with the 
exception of a short time spent in the Paxton 
Rolling Mills. He served as foreman of the 
machine shops until April, 1892, when he 
was made master mechanic of the works. He 
is a member of Carthage Lodge, No. 104, K. 
of P.; Baldwin Commandery, No. 108, K. of 
M.; and of Steelton Conclave, I. 0. H. Mr. 
Morris is independent in politics. He was 
the Democratic nominee for burgess of Steel- 
ton in 1893, but was defeated. He was mar- 
ried, in 1865, to Miss Sallie A., daughter of 
John C. Linn, of Chester county, Pa. They 
have four children : John Finley, foreman 
for Pennsylvania Steel Company, married 
Fannie Norris, the)' have one child, Grace; 
M. Dewitt, Howard D., and Bessie. Mr. 
Morris and his family are members of the 
Presbyterian church. 



Good, Jacob, foreman of the boiler depart- 
ment of the Pennsylvania Steel Company, 
was born in Cumberland county, Pa., Octo- 
ber 22, 1842. His father died when he was 
quite young, and he removed with his 
mother to Dauphin county and located in 
Harrisburg, where he attended the public 
schools. He learned boiler making in the 
shops of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany, and was employed by that company 
for nine years. He was afterwards several 
years with Robert Tippett. In 1876 he was 
employed at Steelton by the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company as journeyman. In 1877 he 
was made foreman of the boiler department, 
which position he has held continuously 
since that time. In 1862 he enlisted in 
company D, One Hundred and Twenty- 
seventh regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, 
and served nine months. He took part in 
the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancel- 
lorsville. He re-enlisted in August, 1864, 
in company D, Two Hundred and First 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
served for five months as orderly to Gen. J. 
P. Slough. Mr. Good is a member of State 
Capital Lodge, No. 70, and Olivet Encamp- 
ment, No. 56, I. 0. 0. F.; of Phoenix Lodge, 
No. 59, K. of P., and of Baldwin Command- 
ery, No. 108, K. of M. In 1890 he helped to 
organize the Mechanics' and Helpers' Re- 
lief Association, and has since been its treas- 
urer. He has served as a member of the 
Good Will Fire Company, No. 7, of Harris- 
burg, for a number of years, and is now pres- 
ident of the Citizen Fire Company, of Steel- 
ton. He is past commander of Sergt. Sam- 
uel VV. Lascomb Post, No. 351, G. A. R; 
is an active Republican, and at present a 
borough councilman. 

Mr. Good was married, in 1864, to Miss 
Maggie E., daughter of George Pipes, of Har- 
risburg. They have four children: George 
E., roll-turner, of Steelton ; Mary Lizzie, wife 
of George H. Yestadt, of Sparrow's Point, 
Md.; Glenzora, wife of Oliver Weigle, of Steel- 
ton, and Lawrence J. Mr. and Mrs. Good 
are members of St. Paul's Baptist church, in 
which he is trustee, and superintendent of 
the Sunday-school. Mr. Good is also a 
member of the Y. M. C. A. 



Dougherty, John W., superintendent of 
the blast furnace department, Pennsylvania 
Steel Company, was born in Worcester, 
Mass., August 17, 1867. He is a son of 
James and Margaret (Geinham) Dougherty. 



994 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



His parents removed to Pittsburgh in 1870, 
and in 1875 came to Steel ton. After gradu- 
ating from the Steelton high school he took 
a course at Ulrich's preparatory school and 
graduated from the mining and engineering 
department of Lehigh University in 1889. 
He learned the open hearth business, and in 
January, 1890, was made foreman of the 
open hearth department of the Pennsylva- 
nia Steel Company. In January, 1892, he 
became superintendent of the blast furnace 
department, which position he has since 
filled. He is a stockholder in the Harris- 
burg Trust Company. He is independent 
in politics. Mr. Dougherty was married, in 
1893, to Miss Caroline, daughter of Patrick 
McNiff, of Harrisburg. 

Downs, John B., superintendent of the 
rail and blooming mills, Nos. 1 and 2, Penn- 
sylvania Steel Company, was born in Leeds, 
England, June 21, 1849. He is a son of 
Thomas and Sarah Downs. His youth was 
passed in England. In July, 1867, he came 
to America, intending to visit California for 
the benefit of his health. He stopped in 
Philadelphia, and worked one year at the 
Milldale Steel Works. In 1869 he came 
to Steelton, and was for eighteen months 
employed by the Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany as helper at the forge hammer. He 
then returned to England, where he was con- 
nected with the Seaman & Martin furnace 
as heater. Coming again to America he had 
charge of the Seaman & Martin furnace at 
Joliet, 111., for about one year, after which he 
returned to Steelton, and took charge of No. 
1 forging hammer. He was gradually pro- 
moted to thesuperintendency of different de- 
partments. He has held his present respon- 
sible position for the past ten years. Mr. 
Downs is a Republican, and is treasurer of 
the Fourth Ward Republican Club. He is a 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, F. & 
A. M., of Harrisburg. He was married, De- 
cember 25, 1883, to Miss Amelia G, daugh- 
ter of Rev. Jacob Miller, of Wilmington, 
Del. They have two children, Nelson Mil- 
ler and Thomas Watson. Mr. and Mrs. 
Downs are members of St. Stephen's Episco- 
pal church, Harrisburg. 

Reynders, J. V. W., superintendent of the 
bridge and construction department, Penn- 
sylvania Steel Company, was born in Ho- 
boken, N. J., December 17, 1866. He is a 
son of John and Louise (Sellers) Reynders, 



and was educated at the Gymnasium at 
Wesel, German}'-, and at the Rensselaer 
Polytechnic Institute, Troy, N. Y., where he 
was graduated iu civil engineering. In 
1886 he engaged with the Pittsburgh Bridge 
Company as designer and remained with 
the company two years. He was next 
employed at the Snead & Co. Iron Works, 
Louisville, Ky., and later by the Penn 
Bridge Company, Beaver Falls, Pa. After 
this he engaged as assistant on the con- 
struction of the Cairo bridge across the 
Ohio river, the St. Louis merchants' bridge 
across the Mississippi, and other important 
structures; being stationed at this period 
at the Union Bridge Company's Works, 
Buffalo, N. Y., and Athens, Pa., and at the 
Edgemoor Bridge Works, Wilmington, Del. 
In December, 1890, at the organization of 
the bridge and construction department of 
the Pennsylvania Steel Company, Steelton, 
he was appointed to the position of engineer 
and in the spring of 1891 was placed in 
charge of the department. Some of the 
notable structures erected by the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Company under his supervision 
include the steel arch span across the Ni- 
agara, replacing the old railway suspension 
bridge ; a double track bridge across the har- 
bor of Duluth, Minn., including one of the 
heaviest draw spans in existence ; the Lake 
Roland elevated railway, running through 
the heart of Baltimore, and a bridge across 
the Norwalk river at South Norwalk, Conn., 
including the first four track draw span 
built in this country. 

Mr. Reynders was married, in 1894, to 
Miss Clare, daughter of Dr. S. T. Charlton, 
of Harrisburg. They have one child, J. V. 
W. Reynders, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Reynders 
are members of the Pine street Presbyterian 
church, Harrisburg. His politics are inde- 
pendent. He is a member of the American 
Society of Civil Engineers, the Engineers' 
Club, of Philadelphia, and the Harrisburg 
Club. 



McEntee, Thomas T, superintendent of 
the open hearth department, Pennsylvania 
Steel Company, was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., March 28, 1861. He is a son 
of Peter and Catherine (Lynch) McEntee. 
The family removed from Lancaster county 
to Perry county, and in 1872 to Harris- 
burg, Dauphin county, Pa. Peter McEntee 
was a keeper in the blast furnace. He died 
in Steelton in 1879 ; his wife died in 1890. 



DA UPHIN COUNTY. 



995 



Thomas T. McEntee was twelve years of age 
when he came with his parents to Dauphin 
county. He attended "the public schools 
and made his beginning of work in the 
Minnick brickyard. In 1873 he came to 
Steelton,and was employed by the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Company as a laborer in the 
open hearth department. He was gradu- 
ally promoted until he was made superin- 
tendent of that department in 1890. Mr. 
McEntee was married, in 1886, to Miss Mary, 
daughter of Simon Quinn, a native of Mary- 
land, and a resident of Steelton. They have 
three children : Bernard, Thomas, and Marie. 
Mr. McEntee is a stockholder in the Harris- 
burg Trust Company. His politics are 
Democratic. The family are members of 
St. James' Catholic church. 



Campbell, Harry Huse, general superin- 
tendent of the works of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company, was born in Boston, Mass. 
His education, obtained in the Boston schools, 
was supplemented by a course in the Massa- 
chusetts Institute of Technology, Boston ; 
from this celebrated school he received a de- 
gree in 1879. He came at once to Steelton, 
engaged with the Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany, and has since that time been continu- 
ously in its employ. He has served in vari- 
ous capacities in the Bessemer and open 
hearth departments, and was in charge of 
the latter department for some time. From 
1889 to 1893 he was assistant superintendent 
of the works ; he was then made general 
superintendent, which position he still holds. 
Mr. Campbell's rapid advancement to respon- 
sible positions can be accounted for only by 
taking into account his rare combination of 
qualities. Eminent mechanical, scientific 
and literary talents, coupled with industry, 
fidelity, ambition and enthusiasm in the cul- 
tivation and practical use of his endowments, 
have carried him safely and rapidly on in 
his remarkable career. The position ac- 
corded him by the great company he repre- 
sents is a certificate of his mechanical and 
scientific equipment. His standing as a 
writer is even more prominent. His scien- 
tific articles, especially those on metallurgical 
topics, find ready acceptance and speedy pub- 
lication in the leading journals of the country. 
His thesis on the "Open Hearth Process," read 
in August, 1893, in Chicago, at the meeting 
of the American Institute of Mining Engi- 
neers, of which he is a member, attracted 
world-wide attention, and gave him rank 



among the leading metallurgists of the age. 
Mr. Campbell is not merely a shop and book 
man, but is felt as a power in social circles. 
In politics he is a Republican. He has been 
a member of the borough council of Steelton 
since 1890, and president of that body since 
1894. 



Calder, A. Russell, superintendent of the 
manufacture of special steel in the open 
hearth department, Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany, was born in Shippensburg, Pa., March 
14, 1858. He is a son of Rev. James and 
Ellen C. (Winebrenner) Calder. He was 
brought up in Harrisburg and educated in 
the public schools ; he was graduated in the 
Pennsylvania State College in 1877, after 
which he took a post graduate course in 
science in the same institution. For five 
years he was foreman in the wheel depart- 
ment of the Harrisburg Car Manufacturing 
Company. In 1883 he came to Steelton and 
entered the employ of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company, Basic Bessemer department. 
In 1889 he was superintendent of the open 
hearth department. Since that year he has 
been superintendent of the manufacture of 
special steels. Mr. Calder is a stockholder 
in the Harrisburg Trust Company. His 
politics are Republican. He was married, in 
1889, to Miss M. Alice, daughter of A. R. 
Hess, of Steelton. He is a trustee of the Free 
Will Baptist church, Fourth and State streets, 
Harrisburg, and a director of the Steelton 
Y. M. C. A. 



Mauk, Samuel T., undertaker and funeral 
director, Steelton, was born in Mechanics- 
burg, Cumberland county, Pa. He is a son 
of Thomas and Elizabeth (Humberg) Mauk, 
who are referred to in another place in this 
volume. His early life was spent under the 
paternal roof, and his education was re- 
ceived in the public schools of his native 
town and in the Business College of Harris- 
burg, Pa. He has been engaged in the busi- 
ness of undertaking since he left school, hav- 
ing received his first training from his 
father. He is also a graduate of the F. A. 
Solomon Embalming School, of Harrisburg, 
his certificate of proficienc}' bearing the 
date of July 28, 1891. He has also a di- 
ploma from the Clark School of Embalm- 
ing, Philadelphia, dated the same year. 
Early in 1895 Mr. Mauk established his 
business in Steelton. By strict personal at- 
tention to the requirements of his art, he has 



996 



BIO GRAPHICAL ENUYCL OPEDIA 



secured a patronage which would be credi- 
table to older houses. His establishment is 
tastefully fitted up and furnished with all 
needful modern appliances. He has in 
stock a full line of funeral furnishing goods, 
and is able to meet the various tastes and 
needs of his patrons, from the most ejaborate 
and costly outfittings to gratify the wealthy 
to the simplest supply for the slenderest 
purse. And withal, to rich and poor alike, 
are given the decorous, regardful and s\*m- 
pathetic services of the trained and efficient 
director, Mr. Mauk. He attends the Metho- 
dist Episcopal church, and is not married. 



Keller, Edward C, senior member of 
the firm of Keller & Mumtna, hardware mer- 
chants, Steeltou, was born in Harrisburg, 
Pa., August 22, 1865. He is a son of Valen- 
tine and Catherine (Fox) Keller. Valentine 
Keller was born in Germany. He received 
his education and was married in his native 
country. He was a master mechanic. He 
came to America and settled at Harrisburg, 
where he spent his life and where he died in 
1881. His wife, Catherine Fox, was also 
born in Germany and came with her hus- 
band to America. She resides in Harrisburg. 
Four of their nine children are living: 
William V., physician, Stony Point, N. Y.; 
Edward G; Louis E., a prominent manufac- 
turer, of New York City; and Dorothy. 

Edward C. Keller received his education 
in the schools and the Business College of 
Harrisburg, From early life he was in the 
hardware business as salesman with Keller 
& Son. In 1888 he became clerk in the 
hardware establishment of Dunkle & Sons, 
Steelton. One year later he was promoted to 
manager. The year following he became 
junioi partner in the firm, and two years later 
the present firm was constituted, of which 
he is senior partner. Mr. Keller is at present 
secretary of the Steelton Electric Light, Heat 
and Power Company. He is a Republican 
and has served three years as school director. 
Mr. Keller was married, in Harrisburg, Sep- 
tember 12, 1886, to Annie, daughter of the 
late William Buehler, one of the old settlers 
of Harrisburg. They have three children ; 
two died in infancy ; the surviving child is 
William D. He and his wife attend St. 
John's church. Mr. Keller belongs to Cap- 
ital City Castle, No. 40, K. of G. E.; to Sus- 
quehanna Tribe, No. 298, 1. 0. R. M., and 
to the I. 0. 0. F., of Steelton. 



Snavely, William J., cashier, Steelton 
National Bank, was born near Boiling 
Springs, Cumberland county, Pa., July 10, 
1861. He is a son of John and Susan (Gish) 
Snavely. John Snavely was born in Bis- 
marck, Lebanon county, Pa., but had resided 
in Cumberland county some years before his 
son William J. was born. He was for the 
greater part of his life a farmer, but since 
1875 has resided in Steelton. He has reached 
the age of seventy-three ; Mrs. Snavely, who 
was a native of Hummelstown, Dauphin 
county, is seventy-one years old. They had 
eleven children, of whom nine are living : 
Catherine, wife of Samuel Plouse, Camp- 
bellstown, Pa.; Matilda, wife of Arthur 
Young, Philadelphia, Pa.; Lera-Belle, wife 
of Joseph B. Hummel, Steelton, Pa.; John 
H., dentist, Steelton ; William J.; Carrie, 
wife of Jonah B. Diffenderfer, referred to 
elsewhere in this volume ; Bertha G., Minnie 
B., and Ora A. One child died in infancy ; 
George W. enlisted in company A, Twen- 
tieth Pennsylvania cavalry, and died in 
Andersonville prison. 

William J. Snavely, when but a child, 
left his native county with his parents, who 
located in Hockersville ; five years later 
they removed to Hummelstown, and five 
years after that to Manheim, Pa., where he 
remained until 1884. He was educated in 
the public schools of Hummelstown and 
Manheim. In June, 1884, he removed to 
Lincoln, Pa., and was cashier of the Lincoln 
National Bank until December, 1886. He 
then came to Steelton, and has since that 
date been cashier of the Steelton National 
Bank, efficiently performing the duties of 
that position. He has been secretary and 
treasurer of the Middletown, Highspire and 
Steelton Street Railway Company since its 
organization. Mr. Snavely is a Republi- 
can, but votes for men rather than for party. 
He has served two years as school director 
of Steelton. He was married, in Duncan- 
non, Pa., August 1, 1889, to Miss Carrie J., 
daughter of Hugh and Ellen (Lightner) 
Wilson, of Landisburg, Perry county. They 
have no children. At the age of twelve 
Mr. Snaveh' began to fight the battles of 
life for himself. The important positions 
he has filled have been won by [his own in- 
defatigable exertions. 



Wilt, Harry, furniture dealer and funeral 
director, was born in Fairview township, 
Cumberland county, Pa., January 2, 1854. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



991 



He is a son of William and Sarah (Smith) 
Wilt. His father now resides in New Cum- 
berland, Cumberland county; his mother 
died August 7, 1882. Up to the age of 
twelve years he spent his life at home, 
receiving the advantages of .a good public 
school education in his native township. In 
1870 he began a three years' apprenticeship 
at cabinet making, in Blaine, Perry county, 
after which, in 1873, he went to Manchester, 
York county, and worked at his trade two 
years as journeyman. In 1875 he engaged in 
the furniture and undertaking business on 
his own account, at New Cumberland, Pa.; 
lie carried on the business successfully at 
that place for eight years. Since March, 
1888, he has been a continuous resident of 
Steelton, and is one of the enterprising and 
successful business men of the place. Mr. 
Wilt was married, in York county, Pa., De- 
cember 24, 1874, to Lydia A., daughter of 
Michael Gross, born in Manchester, York 
county. They have had seven children, 
all sons, one of whom, Samuel, died in in- 
fancy. The living children are: Pussell G., 
Lee G., Robert G., Harry, Chester, and Frank. 
Mr. Wilt is an active member of the Hepta- 
sophs, and of the Independent Order of Red 
Men. His politics are Republican. He at- 
tends St. John's Lutheran church. 



Peters, D. Augustus, pharmacist, Steel- 
ton, Pa., was born in Florin, Lancaster 
county, Pa., August 27, 1865. He is a son 
of Rev. Lewis and Cassadella (Ranck) Peters. 
Rev. Lewis Peters spent his early life in the 
ministry of the United Brethren church. 
He died at New Holland, Lancaster county, 
March 8, 1893. His remains are interred in 
Baldwin cemetery, Steelton. His wife survives, 
residing in Steelton. Their three children are 
all living : Dr. Jacob M. Peters, referred to else- 
where in this volume ; D. Augustus ; and 
Minnie A., wife of John P. Knisely, a prom- 
inent grocer of Steelton, a sketch of whom 
appears elsewhere in this volume. D. Au- 
gustus Peters being the son of a minister, his 
early life was of necessity migratory. Most 
of his primary education was obtained in the 
public schools of Harrisburg, Pa. Lie sub- 
sequently pursued a course of study in the 
Lebanon Valley College. In 1888 he went 
to Lancaster, where for three years he was 
clerk in the drug store of John F. Long's 
Sons. In 1886 he entered the Philadelphia 
College of Pharmacy, and was graduated 
with the class of 1887. In May of the same 



year he opened a pharmacy in Steelton, and 
has since resided continuously in that 
borough, ranking to-day among the leading 
and successful business men of the commu- 
nity. He was married, in Harrisburg, Oc- 
tober 4, 1887, to Nora L., daughter of Joseph 
G. and Eva Wharton, of Harrisburg. They 
have two children, Eva Luella and Howard 
Lewis. Mr. Peters belongs to Peace and 
Plenty Lodge, No. 69, I. 0. 0. F., Harris- 
burg; Baldwin Commandery, No. 108, K. of 
M., Steelton ; and Moro Castle, No. 163, K. 
of G. E. He is a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. 
Peters attend the United Brethren church. 



Smith, Frederick E., the genial proprietor 
of the Central Hotel, the leading hotel of 
Steelton, was born in Blina, South Wales, 
G. B., February 5, 1868. He is a son of 
Henry and Emma (Hilliard) Smith. Henry 
Smith was born and educated in Great Brit- 
ain. He came to America after his marriage 
and settled at Harrisburg. He was connected 
with the Lochiel rolling mill for eight years, 
and from 1875 until his death, February 1, 
1894, was continuously in the service of the 
Pennsylvania Steel Company, at Steelton. 
He was a thoroughly practical mechanic and 
an honorable, upright man, who enjoyed the 
esteem and good will of all who knew him. 
His memory will long be cherished. His 
wife survives, residing in Steelton. Nine of 
their ten children are living : John, who re- 
sides in his native land; Mary A., wife of 
Luke Butt, of Columbia, Pa.; Henry 0., of 
Steelton ; Julia, wife of John Butt, of Leba- 
non, Pa.; Emily, wife of 0. C. Nace, of Har- 
risburg; Rhoda, wife of John F. Bogner, of 
Steelton; Alfred, of Columbia, Pa.; Frede- 
rick E., and Bella, in Steelton, teacher in the 
public schools. 

Frederick E. Smith, at the age of fifteen 
months was brought by his parents to Amer- 
ica. He lived with them in Harrisburg 
until April, 1877; since that date he has 
been a continuous resident of Steelton. He 
was educated in the public schools of Harris- 
burg and Steelton. He was subsequently in 
the employ of the Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany, at Steelton, for seven years. At the 
expiration of that time he became proprietor 
of the Central Hotel. He has since continued 
to conduct it with success. Mr. Smith has 
recently built a large addition to his hotel, 
and has refurnished it throughout, making 
it one of the most comfortable hostelries in 
Dauphin county. His generous provision 



998 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



for the wants of the inner and outer man 
are not surpassed by many more pretentious 
houses. Mr. Smith was married, in Harris- 
burg, to Olive Alleman, daughter of S. S. and 
Mary A . Handshoe. They have had three chil- 
dren : Lyle A., died at the age of eight years ; 
Floyd L., accidentally killed by the electric 
street cars in front of his father's residence ; 
and Hazel L., the only living child. He 
is a Republican and attends the Methodist 
church. 



Benton, Rev. Gilbert Liguori, the be- 
loved rector of St. James' church, Steelton, 
Pa., was born in Newry, Blajr county, Pa., 
December 10, 1857. He is a son of Frank 
H. and Elizabeth (Christy) Benton. In 1867 
he removed with his parents to Renovo, 
Clinton county, Pa., and obtained his ele- 
mentary education in the public schools of 
that town. He subsequently attended St. 
Vincent's College, near Latrobe, Pa., and 
after completing a thorough collegiate course 
in that institution, he entered St. Bona- 
venture Seminary, Allegany, Cattaraugus 
county, N. Y., where he took his philosoph- 
ical and theological courses. On. December 
21, 1882, he received the "minor orders" in 
the Cathedral at Buffalo, N. Y. He was or- 
dained to the- sub-deaconship December 23, 
1882, at the Seminary of our Lady of Angels, 
Suspension Bridge, Niagara county, N. Y., 
and to the deaconship, December 24, 1882, 
at the Cathedral, in the city of Buffalo, 
N. Y., by the Right Rev. Stephen V. Ryan, 
Bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo, N. Y., and 
continued his studies at the above named 
seminary until January 24, 1883. On this 
date he was ordained to the priesthood in 
St. Patrick's Pro-Cathedral, Harrisburg, Pa., 
by the Right Rev. J. F. Shanahan, Bishop 
of the Diocese of Harrisburg. On February 
3, 1883, he was appointed to the assistant 
rectorship of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, at 
Mount Carmel, Pa. A little over four 
months later, June 22, 1883, he was ap- 
pointed assistant rector of the Pro-Cathedral 
at Harrisburg. November 1, 1883, he was 
removed to Sylvan Heights Seminary, and 
was professor of Sacred Liturgy there until 
July 8, 1884 ; he was then re-appointed to 
the assistant rectorship of the Pro-Cathedral 
at Harrisburg. He remained in Harrisburg 
until October 1, 1887, when he was appointed 
to the rectorship of St. James'.church, Steel- 
ton, his present charge. 



Newcomer, Samuel S., merchant tailor, 
Steelton, Pa., was born in Mechanicsburg, 
Cumberland county, Pa., November 9, 1861. 
He is a son of John and Lucy (Shun) New- 
comer. John Newcomer was born near 
Fairview, Pa,, May 13, 1833. He is a car- 
penter, and has spent his life in Cumber- 
land county ; he is still an honored resident 
of Mechanicsburg. His wife died at Me- 
chanicsburg, March 25, 1895. Of their seven 
children, three are now living: Samuel S., 
Frank, of Steelton, and Annie, wife of Ira 
Ryder, of Mechanicsburg. 

Samuel S. Newcomer spent his boyhood at 
Mechanicsburg, and was educated in the 
public schools of that place. Leaving school 
he came to Harrisburg and served an ap- 
prenticeship, at tailoring. He afterwards 
worked at his trade as a journeyman, first in 
Harrisburg and later in Pottsville and in 
New York. He located in Steelton on Jan- 
uary 15, 1889, and engaged in business for 
himself. He has since been a continuous 
resident of this borough, and has built up a 
large and rapidly increasing trade. Mr. 
Newcomer was married, in Steelton, Janu- 
ary 10, 1889, to Phoebe M., daughter of Jacob 
and Elizabeth Eckert, born in Elizabeth town, 
Lancaster county, Pa., and at the date of her 
marriage a resident of Steelton. They have 
one child, Ruth Antoinette, born July 31, 
1893. Mr. Newcomer is a member in good 
standing of Steelton Lodge, No. 184, I. 0. 0. 
F.; of Washington Camp, No. 164, P. 0. S. of A., 
Mechanicsburg ; of Moro Castle, No. 163, K. 
of G. E., Steelton. He is a Republican. Mr. 
and Mrs. Newcomer attend St. John's Evan- 
gelical church, of Steelton. 



Soulliard, John H, was born in Ches- 
ter county, Pa., June 10, 1852. He is a son 
of Lewis and Louisa (Fraulinger) Soulliard. 
Lewis Soulliard was born in France, Jan- 
uary 1, 1815. He came to this country in 
1850, located at a place in Chester county, 
and then returned to France for his family. 
He is a forgeman, and has followed that vo- 
cation from boyhood. He was married, in 
France, to Louisa Fraulinger. They have 
twelve children, six of whom were born in 
France, and six in America ; nine are living : 
Louis ; George ; Joseph ; Frederick ; John H.; 
Sybilla, wife of Fred. Stauter, of Altoona, 
Pa.; James, of Chicago ; Charles, and Rev. 
Aaron. The children deceased are : Louisa, 
wife of Aaron Stine, died November, 1868, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



999 



aged thirty years ; Kate, and Frances. In 
making his several trips Mr. Soulliard was 
seventy-two weeks onthe water. Heis ingood 
health, at the age of eighty-one, and resides 
in Lebanon, Pa. His wife died in May, 
1888, aged seventy-two. She was a faithful 
mother and a devout Christian, a member 
of the Lutheran church. 

John H. Soulliard was brought when a 
child to Lebanon county, where he received 
a limited education in the public schools. 
He learned house painting, and worked at 
that trade for eight years. He afterwards 
worked at butchering with Mr. Reily Ring- 
ler, at Lebanon, for one year, after which he 
found employment at Middletown, Pa. 
Since 1872 Mr. Soulliard has been employed 
at the Pennsylvania Steel Works. He was 
made runner boy, and held that position for 
sixteen years. Subsequently he was em- 
ployed in other capacities, and was at last 
promoted to the Bessemer department. He 
is also auctioneer, and is occasionally em- 
ployed in that capacity. Mr. Soulliard was 
married, November 5, 1872, to Miss Eva 
Hartig, daughter of Christian and Barbara 
(Stroval) Hartig. They have eight children : 
John M., married Miss Lydia Smith ; Louisa, 
Adam ; Fred, and Daniel, twins ; Sarah and 
William, twins; and Charles. Mr. Soulliard 
is a member of several Steelton societies. 
His politics are Republican. The family are 
members of the Roman Catholic church. 

Mrs. Soulliard was born November 23, 
1855, in Lancaster county. Her father, 
Christian Hartig, was born in Germany, 
and came to this country when a boy. He 
was killed, July 5, 1872, by being struck by 
a fast train while he was walking on the 
railroad track. His age was forty-two years. 
His wife, Barbara Stroval, was also a native 
of Germany. She resides at Highland, Dau- 
phin county ; her age is sixty-three. Five 
of their eight children are living: Eva, Mrs. 
Soulliard; Adam, John, Frederick, and 
Maggie, Mrs. Isaac Houck. Their deceased 
children are : Louisa, wife of Daniel Day- 
lor; Christian, and Mary. The grandpar- 
ents were both natives of Germany ; the 
grandmother died in her native land. Chris- 
tian, the grandfather, served in the revolu- 
tionary war in Germany. He came to this 
country in early life, and had been in the 
hotel business in his native land prior to 
coining to America, but sold out when his 
wife died. He settled here, in Lancaster 



county, with his daughter, Eva Fohlinger. 
He was a member of the Roman Catholic 
church, and died at an advanced age. 



Fisher, Charles Frederick William, 
Harrisburg, Pa., was born at Siaux, Ger- 
many, September 25, 1835. He is a son of 
Christian and Lora (Miller) Fisher. His 
paternal grandfather was engaged in the 
grocery business and his maternal grand- 
father was a farmer. Christian Fisher, 
father of Charles F. W., was born in Ras- 
shan, Germany. He was a stonemason. His 
wife, Lora Miller, was a native of Albro, 
Germany. Of their family of seven chil- 
dren, two are living, Ernest and Charles F. 
W. Their deceased children are: Caroline, 
Rosanna, Minnie, and two who died in in- 
fancy. Christian Fisher died in March, 
1841, aged fifty-four; his wife died in Jul}', 
1862, aged sixty-five. They were both 
members of the Lutheran church. 

Charles Frederick W. Fisher received a 
limited education in Ids native country, 
his school days having been shortened by 
his yielding to an inclination to learn 
a trade. He chose that of a miller 
and followed that occupation for forty 
years. Mr. Fisher came with his fam- 
ily to the United States in 1882, and was 
employed at his trade in various places. In 
1887 he came to Harrisburg, Pa., where he 
was employed for nine years in the flour 
mill of John Hoffer. Mr. Fisher bought 
the farm lately owned by Mr. Cassel and 
known as Cassel's tannery, in Swatara town- 
ship, to which he removed, and where he 
now resides, engaged in farming. He was 
married, February 5, 1865, to Miss Amelia, 
daughter of Colonel and Julia (Bottgar) 
Shoeman, natives of Saxenburg, Germany. 
They have had seven children, of whom 
five are living: Frederick; Helena, wife of 
George Kishman ; Sidonia, Charles, and 
Mary. Their deceased children are: Paul, 
died March 7, 1887, aged nineteen; Eliza- 
beth, died in infancy. Mrs. Fisher was 
born August 3, 1835. Her parents were 
both born in Saxenburg; her father was a 
miller. They had six children, of whom 
five are living : Emilia; Nathalie; Charles; 
Amelia, wife of Mr. Fisher; Moritz, and 
Earnest. Graf, a step-brother of Mrs. 
Fisher, came to America before 1882 and 
has not been heard from since. Any in- 
formation concerning him would be gladly 



1000 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



received. Mrs. Fisher's father died at the 
age of thirty-five years, and her mother at 
the age of seventy-eight. 



resides in Lebanon county. Mr. Kuntz is a 
Democrat. He is a member of the German 
Baptist church. 



Kuntz, John B., farmer, Hummelstown, 
was born in Dauphin county, Pa., February 
28, 1838. He is a son of Jacob and Eliza- 
beth (Bordlemay) Kuntz. Wen del Bordle- 
may, his maternal grandfather, was a native 
of Germany. He had a family of seven chil- 
dren, all now deceased : Henry, died in 1886 ; 
David, died in 1890 ; Jacob, deceased ; John ; 
Catherine, wife of Henry Gerberich, deceased ; 
Sarah, wife of a Mr. Bordlemay, and Eliza- 
beth, Mrs. Kuntz, who was born in Lebanon 
county. Her husband, Jacob Kuntz, was 
born in Dauphin county, and was a shoe- 
maker. They had these children: Cathe- 
rine, wife of Samuel Reed ; Sarah, wife of 
Daniel Kline ; John B. Mr. Jacob Kuntz 
was a Democrat. He was a member of the 
Baptist, and his wife of the Lutheran church. 
Mr. Kuntz died in February, 1880, aged 
seventy-four. Mrs. Kuntz died in Septem- 
ber, 1884, aged sixty-two ; both died in Dau- 
phin county. John B. Kuntz received his 
education in the public schools of Dauphin 
county. At the end of his school days he 
was engaged as a hired hand at farming for 
about ten years. In 1860 he took his 
father's farm in East Hanover township, and 
cultivated it on his own account for eight 
years. He was then for two years on the 
farm of John Keim, from which he removed 
to West Hanover township, to the land of 
John Lenkers, which he occupied for a year. 
In 1872 Mr. Kuntz removed to the farm of 
John Backstow, in the same township, which 
he cultivated for twelve years. In 1882 he 
bought the farm formerly owned by John 
Eshelman, to which he removed two years 
later, and which since that date he has been 
engaged in tilling. John B. Kuntz was mar- 
ried, in Derry township, March 1, 1859, to 
Susan, daughter of Isaac Failor. They have 
four children : Clara, wife of Daniel Saulbach ; 
Sarah, wife of William Demmy ; Laura, wife 
of John Gingerich , and William. Mrs. Kuntz 
was born in 1840. Her parents were both 
natives of Lebanon county, and were farmers. 
Their children are: John; William; Susan, 
wife of John B. Kuntz ; Sarah, wife of a Mr. 
Long ; Isabella, wife of John William Rine. 
Mr. Isaac Light died in January, 1882, aged 
seventy-four. Mrs. Light survives him, and 



Flowers, Thomas, was born in Rapho 
township, Lancaster county, Pa., May 5, 1830. 
He is a son of Henry and Catherine (Davis) 
Flowers. Henry Thomas was born in Berks 
county, Pa., and was a farmer. His wife 
was Catherine Davis, and was born in Lan- 
caster county, Pa. They had twelve chil- 
dren, six of whom are living : John ; Henry ; 
Catherine, wife of Jacob Lehman; Jacob, 
Thomas, and Christian. Their deceased 
children are : Marian, died aged seventy-six ; 
Fannie, deceased, was the wife of Daniel 
Messerman ; Henrietta ; and three who died 
in infancy. Mr. Henry Flowers died in 
July, 1856, aged seventy-five years; his wife 
died in 1847, at the age of fifty-five. They 
were members of the Catholic church. Both 
died in Lebanon county. 

Thomas Flowers was educated partly in 
Lancaster and partly in Lebanon county ; 
but his school advantages were limited. He 
left school young, and until he was eighteen 
years old was engaged in chopping wood at 
the Clearbrook furnace for Mr. Coleman, 
after which he was for three years engaged 
in farming. At the age of twenty-one he 
left Lebanon county and came to Dauphin 
county, where he continued farming. After 
his marriage Mr. Flowers farmed for some 
time in Conewago township, and then bought 
a small farm near Campbellstown, Lebanon 
county, on which he lived for twelve years. 
Then for seven years he was engaged in 
farming at Chambers Hill, Swatara town- 
ship ; thence he removed to Stoverdale, 
where he lived retired for seven years. In 
1896 he purchased the large farm lately 
owned by J. Allwine, in Swatara township, 
where he has resumed the active life of the 
farmer. Thomas Flowers was married, at 
Hershey's church, August 15, 1855, to Miss 
Leah, daughter of Samuel and Barbara 
(Minich) Shoop. Their children are : Meno, 
and Leah, wife of Henry P. Etmoyer. 

Mrs. Flowers was born April 6, 1832. Her 
parents were natives of Dauphin county, and 
were farmers. Three of their seven children 
are living: Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Crum, 
deceased; Leah, Mrs. Flowers; and Samuel. 
Their deceased children are : Polly, died 
April 28, 1894, aged seventy-three ; Barbara, 
died February 2, 1854, aged twenty-three. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1001 



Mr. Shoop, the father of Mrs. Flowers, died 
October 23, 1872, aged seventy-six years ; 
and Mrs Shoop died November 18, 1876, at 
the age of eighty ; both died in Dauphin 
county. 



Rutherford, W. F., was born in Swatara 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., December 
7, 1839. He is a son of Abner and Ann 
(Espy) Rutherford. Thomas Rutherford, the 
ancestor of the Rutherford family in America, 
wasborn in Cookton, county Tyrone, Ireland, 
January 24, 1707. He was a farmer and 
came to the United States in 1728, landing 
at Philadelphia. He was married, September 

7, 1730, to Miss Jane, daughter of John and 
Agnes Murdoch. They had twelve children : 
Agnes, died in 1735, aged four years ; Elea- 
nor, died aged sixty-four, was first the wife 
of William Wilson, who died ; her second 
husband was John Davidson ; Jane, who was 
the wife of Thomas Mays, and went to North 
Carolina, where both died ; John ; Thomas, 
died in infancy, in 1739 ; Agnes, died in 1813, 
aged seventy- three, was the wife of a Mr. 
Dunlap, who died, and she was again mar- 
ried, to William Gray ; a second Thomas, 
was killed by the falling of a tree, January 

8, 1760, when he was sixteen years old ; Mary, 
went to North Carolina, where she died ; 
Elizabeth, died October, 1745, in her infancy; 
James, died March 6, 1809, aged sixty-one ; 
Samuel, died May 2, 1785, aged thirty-five, 
was a soldier in the Revolution ; Elizabeth 
was married three times, first to Patrick Gal- 
loway, secondly, to Patrick Harbison, and 
thirdly, to Thomas Archibald, with whom 
she went South, where both died. 

John Rutherford, son of Thomas, and 
great-grandfather of W. F. Rutherford, was 
born in Donegal township, Lancaster county, 
Pa., February 16, 1737; son of Thomas and 
Jane (Murdoch) Rutherford, both natives of 
Ireland. He was educated in the schools of 
his native township, and was a farmer He 
was married, February 4, 1762, to Miss Mar- 
garet Park, by whom he had seven children : 
Jane, died February 28, 1807, aged forty-three 
years, wife of Samuel Hutchinson ; Martha, 
died August 27, 1849, aged eighty-four, was 
the wife of Capt. James Collier, a soldier of 
the Revolution; Thomas, died October 15, 
1793, aged twenty-five; Samuel, died No- 
vember 26, 1833, aged sixty-four; Mary, died 
August 17, 1863, aged ninety-one, was the 
wife of Robert Gray, a soldier of the Revolu- 
tion ; John, died May 1, 1832, aged fifty-eight ; 



and William. Mr. Rutherford besides being 
a farmer was also in public life, having held 
office in 1776-77. In later years he fought 
against the Indians. He died October 1, 
1804, aged sixty-seven. Margaret, his wife, 
died January 18, 1810, aged .seventy-three 
years. Both were members of the Paxtang 
Presbyterian church, and both are buried 
there. 

William Rutherford, son of John and 
grandfather of W. F. Rutherford, was born 
in Swatara township, Dauphin county, Au- 
gust 4, 1776, and was educated in the old 
Paxtang school house, under the instruction 
of Master Allen. He was a farmer. He was 
in the militia, and filled all offices from 
lieutenant to that of colonel. In 1816 he was 
chosen one of the directors of the poor of 
Dauphin county. He was also a member of 
the Legislature from 1819 to 1821, and again 
from 1829 to 1831. Mr. William Rutherford 
was married, March 17, 1801, to Miss Sarah, 
daughter of William and Martha (Renick) 
Swan. They had ten children, of whom 
the only one now living is Dr. Hiram 
Rutherford, of Oakland, 111. Their de- 
ceased children are: John P., died May 
12, 1871, aged sixty-nine years ; Martha, 
October 20, 1851, aged forty-seven ; Will- 
iam W., March 13, 1873, aged sixty-seven ; 
Margaret, June 7, 1889, aged eighty; Sam- 
uel, March 26, 1872, aged sixty-one ; Sarah, 
March 28, 1873, aged sixty, was the wife 
of Daniel Kendig; Abner; Mary, died 
April 14, 1818, aged ten months; Cyrus, 
killed by the limb of a tree falling on his 
head, March 30, 1850, aged thirty years. 
Mr. William Rutherford died January 17, 
1850, aged seventy-three. 

His son, Abner Rutherford, father of W. 
F. Rutherford, was born in Dauphin county, 
March 31, 1814. He was educated in Swa- 
tara township, and principally at the old 
school house at the Paxtang church. He 
was a farmer. He was married, February 
28, 1839, to Miss Ann Espy, born in Dauphin 
county, August 13,1812; daughter of Will- 
iam and Susan (Gray) Espy. They were 
married by the Rev. James Sharon, who also 
baptized them in their infancy. They had 
nine children, three of whom are living: 
William F., Susan E., and Ada Byron, wife 
of Spencer F. Barber. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : John M., died May 24, 1869, aged 
twenty-eight; Susan E., May 5, 1846, aged 
two years and seven months ; Sarah A., De- 
cember 21, 1883, aged thirty-eight, was the 



1002 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENCYCL OPEDIA 



wife of Dr. A. C. Renninger, also deceased ; 
Abner, January 10, 1855, aged seven years; 
Alice A., August 26, 1850, aged one year. 
Abner Rutherford was engaged in farming 
at Rutherford station, near Harrisburg, until 
1868, when be retired. In 1835 Mr. Ruth- 
erford was elected captain of the Tenth com- 
pany, Ninety-eighth regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia militia. He was one of the founders of 
the State Agricultural Society. He filled 
various offices in the township. Mr. Ruther- 
ford was formerly a Whig, but became a 
Republican when that party was organized. 
He was for many years president of the 
Hummelstown Bank, and held that position 
at the time of his death. He was all his life 
a member of the Paxtang Presbyterian 
church. His death occurred September 2, 
1890, at the age of seventy-six. His wife is 
still living and is in good health at the ad- 
vanced age of eighty-four. She is a consist- 
ent member of the Paxtang Presbyterian 
church. The mother of William F. Ruth- 
erford was descended from the Espy family. 
Its first American ancestor, George Espy, 
was born in Ireland and died in 1761. He 
came to America in 1729, and settled in 
Derry township, Lancaster, now Dauphin 
county. He was married in Ireland to Miss 
Jane Taylor. They had these children : 
John, born in 1716 ; Josiah, born L718 ; 
William, died in August, 1761, aged forty- 
one years ; Mary, born in the north of Ire- 
land in 1722, wife of John Woods; Jane and 
Elizabeth, twins, born in 1725 ; Elizabeth 
was the wife of James Forster; James, born 
in 1727, died in 1787 ; David, died in June, 
1795, in Bedford, Pa., was a prominent law- 
yer; George, born in 1732, and Anne, born 
in 1736, wife of William Crane. 

Josiah Espy, son of George, and maternal 
great-great-grandfather of W. F. Rutherford, 
was born in the north of Ireland in 1718, 
and came with his parents from Ireland in 
1729. They located in Hanover, Lancaster 
county, now Lebanon county, where Josiah 
died in 1762, aged forty-four years. He was 
twice married, first to Miss Buell and after- 
wards to Miss Elizabeth Crane. There is 
no account of the separate issue of these 
marriages, but by both there were these 
children: Josiah; Susan, wife of John Pat- 
ton ; Mary, died in 1818, aged seventy-three, 
was the wife of James McClure ; Martha, 
born in 1747, wife of Capt. Lazarus Stew- 
art; George, died in April, 1814, in Luzerne 



county ; Priscilla, born in 1753 ; Robert, in 
1755, and Samuel, in 1757. 

Josiah Espy (2), maternal great-grand- 
father of W. F. Rutherford, was born March 
10, 1742, in Hanover, then Lancaster, now 
Lebanon county, Pa., where, he was reared 
and educated. His chief occupation was 
farming, at which he spent most of his life 
in Dauphin county, Mr. Espy was married, 
July 8, 1769, to Miss Ann, daughter of Will- 
iam and Margaret Kirkpatrick. They had 
these children : Margaret, died September 
4, 1851, was the wife of Samuel Elder; 
Priscilla, died September 29, 1845, wife of 
Robert McClure ; Josiah, died April 13, 1811 ; 
William ; James Snodgrass, died September 
21, 1872, in Harrisburg, where he was one 
of the leading merchants ; Dr. John E., 
died April 26, 1831, at Harrisburg, where 
be was a prominent physician. 

William Espy, maternal grandfather of 
W. F. Rutherford, was born June 2, 1776, 
was educated in the schools of Paxtang and 
was a farmer. He was married, June 2, 
1807, to Miss Susanna, daughter of Joseph 
and Elizabeth (Forster) Gray, Rev. James 
R. Sharon officiating. They had three chil- 
dren, of whom two are living : Elizabeth G., 
wife of Samuel Sharp, deceased, and Ann 
Josiah, born December 22, 1809, died August 
12, 1891, aged eighty-two years. Mr. Espy 
retired in 1843 and removed to Harrisburg, 
where he died July 28, 1850, aged seventy- 
four. His wife died July 10, 1854, aged 
seventy-two years. Both were members of 
the Presbyterian church. 

W. F. Rutherford received his primary 
education in the schools of Swatara town- 
ship, and afterwards attended the Mt. 
Joy Academy, Lancaster county, for five 
years. He subsequently engaged in farm- 
ing, on the place on which he now lives. 
In 1860 he taught school for one year. Mr. 
Rutherford was married, in Swatara town- 
ship, December 30, 1862, to Miss Adeline 
M., daughter of John B. and Keziah (Park) 
Rutherford, Rev. A. D. Mitchell performing 
the ceremony. Of their nine children seven 
are living : Annie E., Richard, Jane D., 
Adeline M., Marshall, Keziah P., and Don- 
ald. Their deceased children are : Flor- 
ence, died in 1864, an infant, and Helen P., 
died August 29, 1889, aged twenty-three 
years. Mr. Rutherford is a Republican and 
in 1864 was elected school director, and 
served three years. He has also served as 



DAUPSIN COUNT?. 



1003 



assessor. He has been connected with the 
Pennsylvania State Agricultural Society for 
about thirty years and has been its treasurer 
for the past three years. He is a member of 
the Paxtang Presbyterian church and is 
secretary of the board of trustees of that 
church. Mrs. William F. Rutherford was 
born March 22, 1839. Her father, John B. 
Rutherford, was born in Dauphin county 
and was a farmer by occupation. He was 
married, March 19, 1833, by Rev. James 
Latta, to Miss Keziah Park, .daughter of 
Col. James and Mary Park, and cele- 
brated their golden wedding March 19, 
1883. Their family of eight children are 
all living, and are as follows : Mary L., wife 
of James McClure ; Eliza Jane, wife of Rev. 
Samuel Dickey ; Adeline, Mrs. Rutherford ; 
Samuel P., married to Eliza R. Bunn ; John 
Q. A., married to Margaret B. Elder; Francis 
W, married to Eleanor Elder; Keziah V., and 
Marion Gertrude, wife of S. Ralston Dickey. 
Mr. Rutherford spent his active life in 
farming, from which he retired a few years 
before his death. The Whig party elected 
him to the Pennsylvania House of Repre- 
sentatives, in which he served from 1845 to 
1849. By the Republican party he was 
elected in later time to the State Senate, 
and served three years with distinguished 
ability. He was treasurer of the Pennsyl- 
vania State Agricultural Society for twenty- 
five years. He also held various township 
offices. Mr. Rutherford was a ruling elder in 
Paxtang church for about fifty years. He 
died October 10, 1892, aged eighty-six years. 
His wife was born in Parksburg, Chester 
county, October 28, 1810, and died July 23, 
1885, aged seventy-four years. 

Riegel, Samuel, was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., July 15, 1842 ; son of Jacob and 
Matilda (Hummel) Riegel. His paternal 
grandparents were natives of Pennsylvania. 
The grandfather's occupation was hat manu- 
facturer. On the maternal side the grand- 
parents were Susan and John Hummel. 
Jacob- Riegel, father of Samuel Riegel, was 
born in Dauphin county on May 6, 1810, 
and died October 22, 1883, aged seventy-three 
years, five months and sixteen days. He was 
educated in the schools of the county and was 
for forty years a blacksmith, but late in life 
engaged in farming in South Hanover town- 
ship. He was married to Miss Matilda, 
daughter of John and Susan Hummel, also 
a native of Dauphin county. They had ten 



children, six of whom are living: Catherine, 
wife of John M. Lowe ; Mary, wife of Jacob 
Dimler ; Samuel, William, Jacob, and David. 
Their deceased children are: Silas, died No- 
vember 5, 1853, aged six years and nine days; 
John, died October 8, 1853, aged three years 
and eighteen days ; Caroline Ida, died June 
16, 1869, aged five years and eight months, 
and one that died in infancy, Elizabeth 
Riegel, died 1860, aged six months and 
twenty-two days. 

Jacob Riegel was a Democrat and held 
various offices ; he was twice elected tax col- 
lector and inspector in Lower Paxton and 
South Hanover townships; in the same 
townships he had the rank of captain of 
militia. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Riegel were 
members of the Lutheran church. He died 
October 22, 1883, aged seventy-three years; 
Mrs. Riegel died August 1, 1880, aged sixty- 
one years, eleven months and twenty-three 
days. 

Samuel Riegel received his education in 
the schools of Lower Paxton and South Han- 
over townships and worked with his father 
until he was' twenty-one. He enlisted Feb- 
ruary 6, 1865, in company C, One Hundred 
and Ninety-second regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, for one year's service and was 
discharged August 24, 1865, the war having 
ended. From this time for two years he con- 
tinued farming. In 1868 he took up car- 
pentry, at which he worked for three years. 
He was then for five years in the service of 
the Reading Railroad Company, and since 
1872 has been engaged in farming. While 
in the army Mr. Riegel learned the business 
of auctioneering, which he has followed for 
the past twenty years in connection with 
farming. He is a member of James Hender- 
son Post, No. 443, G. A. R., Hummelstown, 
Pa. Mr. Riegel was married, April 7, 1863, 
to Miss Sarah, daughter of George Washing- 
ton and Catherine Cassel. They have had 
seven children, of whom two are living: 
Emma L., born April 6, 1867, wife of Harry 
Snyder; Harry A., born December 14, 1877. 
Their deceased children are : John W., born 
July 19, 1864, was killed on the railroad 
March 2, 1888 ; Mary E., born November 6, 
1865, died January 13, 18S2 ; Catherine, 
born August 25, 1868, died September 9, 
1868 ; Jacob, born December 12, 1871, died 
April 12, 1872 ; David M., born January 15, 
1875, died April 4, 1875. Mr. Riegel is a 
Republican. The family are members of 
the Lutheran church. 



1004 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Emma L., daughter of Mr. S. Riegel, was 
married, October 26, 1889, to Harry E. Sny- 
der. Thev have four children : Annie, born 
January 17, 1888; Harry H.. July 27, 1891 ; 
John F., October 4, 1892, and Meade S., 
March 11, 1896. 

Mrs. Samuel Riegel was born April 19, 
1841. Her parents were both natives of 
Dauphin county. Her father, George W. 
Cassel, was born November 2, 1806, and was 
a farmer and butcher. He was married, 
May 22, 1834, to Miss Catherine, daugh- 
ter of Jacob and Sallie (Ewing) Cassel. 
Their children are: Sarah, Mrs. Riegel; 
Sophia, born in 1843, wife of George Bow- 
man ; Kate, born July 30, 1845, died August 
2, 1846; Elizabeth, December 27, 1847, wife 
of D. H. Bashore ; Louisa, January 15, 1853, 
wife of Jacob Gingerich. The mother died 
October 3, 1865. Mr. Cassel was married 
again, and his wife, who survives him, re- 
sides in Harrisburg. Their one child was 
May Rebecca, born March 24, 1867. Mr. 
Cassel died September 11, 1876, aged seventy 
years, eleven months and nine. days. Mrs. 
Riegel's grandfather, Jacob Cassel, was a 
native of Dauphin county. 



Dimler, Philip, farmer, was born in Lan- 
caster county, Pa., September 27, 1838 ; son 
of John and Susan (Moyer) Dimler. John 
Dimler also was born in Lancaster county, 
and was a farmer. He removed to Dauphin' 
county in 1841, and engaged in farming, in 
Swatara township. He filled important of- 
fices. His death occurred in July, 1879 ; his 
age was seventy-one years. He was married 
to Susan Moyer, a native of Lancaster county. 
Seven of their ten children are living: 
Philip, Jacob, Eli, Benjamin, Richard, 
Catherine, wife of Adam Morrow, and Eliza- 
beth, wife of Reuben Bomgardner. Their 
deceased children are : John ; Henry, died in 
Lancaster county, aged two years. Mrs. 
Dimler is in good health, at the age of 
eighty-four years. 

Philip Dimler received a limited educa- 
tion in the Dauphin county schools. He re- 
mained with his father, assisting him in 
farm work, until he was twenty-four years of 
age. In 1864 he married Miss Elizabeth, 
daughter of Peter and Kate (Shopp) Heck- 
ert, born December 5, 1839. They have no 
children. Mr. Dimler has always been en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits ; gardening 
and truck farming are a specialty of his busi- 
ness. He is a Democrat, and has filled va- 



rious township offices. He was elected super- 
visor of Swatara township, and held that 
office for three years. He is a leading man 
in the community, and is highly esteemed. 
Mr. Dimler is a member of the Lutheran 
church. 

Peter Heckert, Mrs. Dimler's father, was 
born in Dauphin county, Pa., and was a 
farmer. He was married to Miss Catherine 
Shaffer, a native of Dauphin county. Mr. 
Heckert now resides in Linglestown, Pa. 



Barber, Spencer F., farmer and dairy- 
man of Swatara township, was born in 
Union county, Pa., January 22, 1855 ; son of 
William B. and Agnes (Rezner) Barber. 
His maternal grandfather, James Rezner, 
was a farmer and married Miss Finney, by 
whom he had six children : Robert ; Samuel ; 
Agnes; Sarah, deceased, wife of Dr. Schuy- 
ler ; Elizabeth, who married John B. Barber, 
and' died March 5,1887; Susan, deceased, 
wife of Thomas Pollock. William B., the 
father, was born in Union county, Pa., May 
8, 1830. He received such education as the 
limited advantages of the schools of that day 
afforded, and engaged in farming, spending 
the greater part of his active life in that oc- 
cupation. He was married in his native 
county, February 9, 1854, to Miss Agnes 
Rezner, born January 2, 1835 ; daughter of 
James and Miss (Finney) Rezner. Their 
children are: Spencer F.; Susan, wife of 
Bernard Taylor, residing in Miffiinburg; 
Mary Ann ; Fannie J.; Henrietta, wife of 
James Caldwell and lives in Chester, Pa.; 
James W., Grace, and Eva. The parents are 
both members of the Presbyterian church. 

Spencer F. was reared on his father's 
farm and had the experiences which fall to 
the lot of the ordinary farmer boy, of win- 
ter schooling and summer working, both 
needful and beneficial in fitting the boys for 
the duties and responsibilities of subsequent 
life. At the age of twenty-one years he 
located in Luzerne county, Pa., and was 
employed as a clerk in the store of J. F. 
Barber & Co. for six months, after which he 
was for one year put in charge of the books 
of the firm. Subsequently he was employed 
for two years bj r the Buck Mountain Coal 
Company of Philadelphia, after which he 
was in charge of the Stout Coal Company's 
store at Milesville for one year, which posi- 
tion he was compelled to resign on account 
of failing health. He then spent one year 
in traveling through the West, visiting 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1005 



Denver, Col., Colorado Springs and other 
important and interesting localities, and 
after returning was for nine months in the 
employ of Hail, Shenk & Co., Philadelphia, 
as a traveling salesman. In the spring of 
1883 he relinquished all other pursuits and 
settled down on the old homestead at Ruth- 
erford station, on the Philadelphia and 
Reading railroad, near Harrisburg, where 
he has since had his home and been a 
farmer and dairyman. In the latter branch 
of business Mr. Barber is prominent and 
easily a leader, keeping some of the best 
blooded stock to be found in this part of the 
State. In social life Mr. Barber occupies an 
honorable position and enjoys the confi- 
dence and esteem of his neighbors. Mr. 
Barber removed from Luzerne county and 
on October 5, 1882, was married to Miss 
Ada B. Rutherford, daughter of Abner 
and Ann (Espy) Rutherford, by whom he 
has four children : Ann E., William B., 
James R., and Nelson R. Mrs. Barber was 
born in Swatara township, November 27, 
1852. In his political sentiments and 
views Mr. Barber is in harmony with the 
Democratic party. He and his wife are 
members of the Paxtang Presbyterian 
church. 



Allwine, Jonas, was born in London- 
derry township, Dauphin county. Pa., July 
21, 1845. He is a son of Jonas and Mary 
(Barrick) Allwine. John Allwine, his pa- 
ternal grandfather, was a farmer ; he mar- 
ried in Lancaster county and reared a fam- 
ily of seven children : Henry ; Savilla, wife 
of John Hawn ; one, who is the wife of 
John Aldinger, of Iowa ; Philip ; William ; 
Louisa, wife of John Harvey, Springville,Pa.; 
Jonas, deceased. Mr. John Allwine died 
aged seventy-nine years; his wife died in 
1869. The maternal grandfather of Jonas 
Allwine, Jr., was born in Wurtemburg, Ger- 
many, and came to this country at an early 
day. He was a tailor, and continued 
throughout life to work at that trade. He 
married a native of Dauphin county. They 
had three children : Elizabeth, wife of Peter 
Hoffman, deceased ; Mary, deceased ; Wil- 
liam. 

Jonas Allwine, Sr., was born in August, 
1820, and was engaged in farming and burn- 
ing lime. He filled various township offices; 
served ten years as supervisor of Swatara 
township, and two terms as school director. 
His wife was Mary Barrick. Of their seven 



children two are living : Anna, wife of Mar- 
tin Ebersole; and Jonas. Their deceased 
children are: John, died in 1872, aged 
thirty ; Lavinia, died in Ma}', 1895, aged 
thirty-seven; Edwin, twin of Lavinia, died 
in 1863, aged three years ; William and 
Catherine both died in infancy. Mr. All- 
wine died May 10, 1885, aged sixty-five 
years and three months ; his wife died Au- 
gust 6, 1888 ; both died at the house of their 
son, Jonas. They were members of the Bap- 
tist church, the father having united with 
the church shortly before his death. 

After completing his school education, 
Joseph Allwine, Jr., was engaged in assist- 
ing his father on the farm until he was 
twenty-four ; he was also interested with his 
father in the lime burning. Mr. Allwine 
was married, July 31,1869, to Sarah, daugh- 
ter of Conrad and Mary (Seltzer) Wagner, 
born in East Hanover township, September 
21, 1847. Their children are : Emma, Will- 
iam H, John J., and Frank J. After his 
marriage Mr. Allwine continued farming 
and lime burning, and was also in the coal 
business for about eighteen years. During 
the year 1876 he served on the police force 
in Philadelphia, Pa., after which he resumed 
his usual business, which he has since con- 
tinued to prosecute without interruption. 
Since 1877 he has regularly attended the 
Harrisburg market. Mr. Allwine is a Re- 
publican. In 1893 he was elected to the 
office of supervisor of Swatara township, 
served a few months, and then resigned. 

Conrad Wagner, father of Mrs. Allwine, 
was born in Lebanon county, Pa., and was a 
farmer during the active years of his life; 
he has now retired from business. He mar- 
ried Miss Mary Sellers, a native of Lebanon 
county. They had seven children : Sarah, 
Mrs. Allwine ; Catherine, wife of John 
Snavely ; Mary, wife of Joseph Snavely ; 
Amos ; Emma, wife of John Baum ; Louisa, 
died in 1869, aged twenty-three ; Elizabeth, 
deceased, wife of Joseph Seltzer. Mr. and 
Mrs. Wagner now reside at Union Deposit, 
Pa. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. All- 
wine was also named Conrad. 



Hanshue, Elmer E., was born in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 25, 1868. He is a son of Jeremiah and 
Vernina (Garnan) Hanshue. A sketch of 
his parents appears elsewhere in this vol- 
ume. Mr. Hanshue received his primary 
education in the schools of Dauphin 



1006 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



couuty, and afterwards attended the Blooms- 
burg State Normal School for two terms, 
during the years 1888 and 1889. He taught 
school, after completing this course, for one 
term in Swatara township. He then en- 
gage in farming with his father, and con- 
tinued until, in 1896, he began farming on 
his own account. Mr. Hanshue was mar- 
ried, at Middletown, Pa., November 28, 1895, 
to Miss Martha E., daughter of Rev. Henry 
N. and Sarah (Meyers) Shope. She was 
born November 24, 1874. Her father, Rev. 
Henry N. Shope, was born September 8, 
1852, attended the schools of his county, 
and spent his earlj* life in farming and the 
dairy business. For the last thirteen years 
he has been in the ministry, and is still ac- 
tively engaged in that sacred calling. He 
was 'married, January 1, 1874, to Miss 
Sarah, daughter of Henry and Sarah (Coble) 
Meyers. They have seven children : Martha 
E.,"Mrs. Hanshue; Harry M., Annie M., 
Sadie Bertha, Eli C, William B., and 
Myrtle M. Henry Meyers, maternal grand- 
father of Mrs. Hanshue, was born in Dau- 
phin county. He was a school teacher and 
farmer, and subsequently was a bishop in 
his church for some years. His first mar- 
riage was to Miss Sarah Ober, who died 
without issue. Mi*. Meyers' second marriage 
was to Miss Sarah Coble, by whom he had 
five children, four of whom are living: 
Christ.; Barbara, wife of William Bates ; 
David, and Sarah, Mrs. Shope, born Febru- 
ary 28, 1852 ; Eli, died September 11, 1892. 
Mrs. Sarah Meyers died in March, 1852, 
aged thirty-five years. Mr. Meyers' third 
wife was Miss Maria, daughter of Harry and 
Barbara (Rimer) Zimmerman; they had 
two children : Simon B. and Ella M., wife of 
Edward Shenk. Mr. Meyers died Septem- 
ber 2, 1890, aged eighty-six years, eleven 
months and one day. His wife is still liv- 
ing at the age of sixty-six. 

Nathaniel Shope, paternal grandfather of 
Mrs. Hanshue, was educated in the public 
schools, became a teacher, and later entered 
the ministry. He was afterwards ordained 
a bishop. Mr. Shope was married to Miss 
Martha, daughter of Henry and Martha 
(Bowman) Garuian. Their children are : 
Margaret, wife of Samuel Kohr, deceased ; 
Martha, wife of Adam Hocker ; Eliza, wife 
of Samuel Zimmerman ; Henry, father of 
Mrs. Hanshue ; Hettie, wife of David Mar- 
tin ; Susan, wife of Jonas Zimmerman, de- 



ceased ; Sarah, wife of Daniel Kohr, and 
Adam. Mr. Shope was a farmer up to the 
time of his death, which occurred March 28, 
1877. His wife died in October, 1892, aged 
seventy-seven. Both were members of the 
Mennonite church. 



Hanshue, Jeremiah, was born in Dau- 
phin county, Pa., August 5, 1841 ; son of 
Samuel and Catherine (Zimmerman) Han- 
shue. His paternal and maternal grand- 
parents were natives of Dauphin county, 
and were farmers. His paternal grandpar- 
ents had a family of five children. Samuel 
Hanshue, father of Jeremiah Hanshue, was 
born in Dauphin county, where he was edu- 
cated and followed the occupation of farm- 
ing. He married Miss Catherine Zimmer- 
man, born in Dauphin county. Their chil- 
dren are : Susan, wife of Peter Shaffer ; Eliz- 
abeth, wife of Joseph Hain ; William ; Sam- 
uel ; Jeremiah ; Mary, wife of Samuel Alle- 
man ; Henry ; Clara, wife of Solomon Stiles. 
Mr. Hanshue died April 13, 1890, aged 
eighty-two ; his wife is also deceased. Both 
were members of the Lutheran church. 

Jeremiah Hanshue was educated in the 
public schools, and at the Linglestown Insti- 
tute ; he subsequently attended the Millers- 
town Normal School for two terms. He be- 
gan teaching school at the age of sixteen, arid 
was employed in this vocation for ten years 
in Lower Paxton, East Hanover and Swatara 
townships, after which he engaged in farm- 
ing. Mr. Hanshue was married to Miss Ver- 
nina Carman, daughter of John and Emily 
(McGigan) Carman. They have four chil- 
dren: Elmer E., Ermina, Urban, and Es- 
tella. Mr. Hanshue has served as school 
director for sixteen years ; in 1896 he was 
re-elected, and will begin a new term in 
June. He is a Republican. John Carman, 
father of Mrs. Hanshue, was born in Dau- 
phin county, and was a farmer. He was mar- 
ried to Emily McGigan, a native of Cumber- 
land county, Pa. They had six children : 
John ; Vernina, Mrs. Hanshue; Emma, wife 
of Edwin Cameron; James, Verdilla, and 
Laura. Mr. and Mrs. Garman reside in Dau- 
phin county. They belong to the Lutheran 
church. Erwin, son of Mr. Hanshue, was 
graduated from the Normal School in 1893, 
and began teaching in the high school, at 
Enhaut, Pa. The other son is a farmer in 
Dauphin county. 





-Z^^£ HuZtyj ^ 





DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1009 



Rupp, John H., was born in Swatara town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., June 25, 1850. 
He is a son of Samuel and Fanny (Horst) 
Rupp. His great-grandfather, Jacob Rupp, 
was a farmer. He had a family of seven chil- 
dren: John, Jacob, Christian, and Peter; 
Nancy, wife of Christie Allman ; one who 
was the wife of a Mr. Nissley, and one who 
was the wife of Jacob Fisher. Christian 
Rupp, grandfather of John H. Rupp, was 
born in 1788, on the homestead, where he 
passed his life in farming, and where he 
died March 11, 1872, aged eighty-four. He 
was married, first, to Miss Shultz; no chil- 
dren were born of this marriage. Mr. Rupp's 
second wife was Miss Mary Hippart, born in 
1800; daughter of George and Mary Hippart. 
They had two children : Samuel, and Mary, 
wife of Martin Nissley. Mr. Rupp filled 
many offices, and was much occupied in 
settling estates. He was a prominent man, 
and enjoyed the confidence of the commu- 
nity. His wife died July 26, 1872; both 
passed away in Swatara township. 

Samuel Rupp, father of John H Rupp, 
was born in Dauphin county, April 16, 1824. 
He was educated in the schools of Swatara 
township, and reared on the farm. He made 
farming his occupation, and died in the 
home in which he was born. He was mar- 
ried in 1850; his wife, Miss Fanny Horst, 
was born in Dauphin county, and was a 
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Long- 
necker) Horst. They have had three chil- 
dren : John H; Mary, wife of William H. 
Atticks, and Samuel E. Mr. Rupp was a 
Republican. He was a member of the United 
Brethren church. His death occurred May 
6, 1887, at the age of sixty-three. His wife 
still resides on the old homestead. 

John Horst, maternal grandfather of J. H. 
Rupp, was a native of Lancaster county, Pa., 
a miller and distiller, but later in life en- 
gaged in farming. He was married to Miss 
Elizabeth Longnecker, born in Lancaster 
county, daughter of John Longnecker. They 
had ten children, four of whom are living: 
Fanny, wife of Samuel Rupp, deceased ; 
Mary, widow of Martin Nissley; Adeline, 
wife of Daniel Metz ; Ellen, living at home. 
Their deceased children are: Elizabeth, died 
in 1858, aged twenty years; Leah, died in 
1859, aged nineteen years; Anna, died Feb- 
ruary 17, 1879, aged forty -two years, was the 
wife of Benjamin Cockley ; Catherine, died 
in September, 1891, aged sixty years, wife of 



Jacob Nissley ; Jacob, died December 2, 
1891, and one who died in infancy. Mrs. 
Horst survives her husband, having been a 
widow for thirty-eight years. She resides in 
Swatara township, and has attained the age 
of eighty-eight years. She is a Mennonite in 
her faith. 

John H. Rupp attended the schools of his 
native township until he was eighteen, when 
he entered Lebanon Valley College, and 
studied there two terms. He then taught 
winter schools in Swatara township three 
terms, working with his father on the farm 
during the summer until he became of age. 
After his marriage he began farming on his 
own account, and in connection with the 
farm conducted the dairy business. Mr. 
Rupp was married, in Harrisburg, Pa., No- 
vember 21, 1871, to Miss Barbara, daughter 
of Christian and Barbara (Epler) Foltz, born 
in Conewago township, March 24, 1851. 
They have five children : Christian J., born 
February 15, 1873 ; Samuel E., September 
18, 1878 ; Mary E., July 16, 1880 ; Clara V. 
and Mabel S., twins, born March 11, 1891. 
Mr. Rupp is a Republican, and has been 
elected to important offices. He served as 
auditor of Swatara township for three years, 
and subsequently as assessor for seven years. 
He is a member of the United Brethren 
church at Chambers Hill. 

Christian Foltz,father of Mrs.Rupp,was born 
in Dauphin county in 1800. He was for a num- 
ber of years a merchant ; later he engaged in 
farming, and put his sons in charge of the 
store. He was married three times. His 
first wife was Miss Bucks, daughter of Jonas 
Bucks. Of their children, two are living, 
Josiah and Samuel. The deceased children 
are: John, died June 10, 1884, aged sixty- 
four years; Jacob; Susan, died in 1862, 
wife of Michael Conley ; her children died 
in infanc}'. Mr. Foltz was married, sec- 
ondly, to Miss Barbara Epley, daughter of 
David Epley, by whom there were born six 
children : Eli; Mary, wife of Mr. Wallower; 
David, of Topeka, Kan.; Elizabeth, wife of 
Isaac Ulrich; Catherine, wife of David Gar- 
mon ; Barbara, Mrs. Rupp. Mrs. Barbara 
Foltz died April, 1851. The third wife of 
Mr. Foltz was Miss Elizabeth, daughter of 
Isaac Hentzberger. They have had four 
children: Emma, wife of Daniel Smith! 
Isaiah ; Obert, and one who died in infancy. 
Mr. Foltz died in March, 1863, aged sixty- 
three. His wife survives him, and resides in 



63 



1010 



BIO GRA PHI U A L ENCYCL REDIA 



Londonderry township, Dauphin count}'. 
Christian Foltz, paternal grandfather of Mrs. 
Rupp, was a native of Dauphin county, a 
farmer ; he reared five children. 



Stephenson, John L., was born in Harris- 
burg, Pa., August 26, 1S49 ; son of John D. 
and Annie (Knupp) Stephenson. His pa- 
ternal grandfather was a native of England 
and a shoemaker. He came at an early day 
to this country and settled at Harrisburg. 
He had a family of six children, two of 
whom are living : Asa, residing in Ohio, and 
Annie, wife of Dr. Updegraff, Philadelphia. 
The deceased children are: Jacob, Thomas, 
Paul, and John D., father of John L. Stephen- 
son. Both grandparents were members of the 
Methodist church, and died in Harrisburg. 
The grandfather died in 1852 and the grand- 
mother in 1851. The maternal grandfather 
of John L. Stephenson was a farmer. By his 
first marriage he had two children : Annie, 
wife of John D. Stephenson ; and Elizabeth, 
wife of Samuel Alleman. Mr. Knupp was 
married the second time, and had by this 
marriage one daughter, Mary, wife of Lute 
Chandler. 

John D. Stephenson, father of John L., 
was born in Dauphin county, Pa., and was a 
carpenter; his wife, Annie (Knupp) Steph- 
enson, was also a native of Dauphin county. 
Of their four children only John L. survives. 
Mary, wife of Samuel Sheets, died aged 
thirty-five years; Theresa, wife of Philip 
Yeager, was killed on the railroad in 1873 ; 
Sarah, died in infancy. Mr. Stephenson 
filled various township offices and was a 
member of several fraternal orders. He 
died October 11, 1854, aged thirty-two; his 
wife is still living, residing with her son 
John L. 

John L. Stephenson took the regular 
course in the public schools of Swatara town- 
ship, after whi'ch lie worked on the farm with 
his uncle until he was twenty-one years of 
age. Mr. Stephenson was married, in Har- 
risburg, December 23, 1870, to Miss Sarah A., 
daughter of John and Mary (Werner) Con- 
rad, born in Dauphin county, November 21, 
1849. Nine of their ten children are living : 
Annie, wife of Philip Bomgardner; John E., 
Theresa J., Sarah O, Samuel, Helen P., Ed- 
ward R., Nettie, and Marion F. Emma died 
May 26, 1872, aged five months and twenty- 
seven days. Since his marriage, Mr. Steph- 
enson has been continuously engaged in 
farming. In 1880 he removed to the farm 



lately owned by David Alleman, where he 
has lived since that date. Mr. Stephenson 
is a Democrat. His church membership is 
with the Lutherans. John Conrad, father 
of Mrs. Stephenson, was born in Dauphin 
county, and was a shoemaker. He was first 
married to Miss Page, by whom he had three 
sons. The second wife of Mr. Conrad was 
Mary, daughter of John Werner; of this 
marriage there were four children : David ; 
Sarah, Mrs. Stephenson; Joseph, and Solo- 
mon. Mr. Conrad died December 26, 1873, 
aged seventy-five years. His wife died Feb- 
ruary 14, 1889; both died in their native 
county. 



Snyder, John Beigh, was born in Buffalo 
Valley, Perry county, Pa., May 14, 1862 ; son 
of Emanuel and Margaret (Beigh) Snyder. 
Jacob Snyder, his great-grandfather, was a 
farmer, born in Northumberland county. 
His wife Catherine was a native of Ger- 
man}'. They were the parents of thirteen 
children : John, Jacob, Jonathan, Samuel, 
Peter, David, Joseph, Geiger, Andrew, 
Henry, Lydia, Kate, and Sarah. David 
Snyder, grandfather of John B. Snyder, was 
born in Northumberland county, Pa., De- 
cember 20, 1808. He was a carpenter ; for 
about fifteen years he followed that occupa- 
tion, and afterwards engaged in farming. 
He was married to Miss Sarah Campbell. 
Of their ten children, four are living : 
Emanuel, Edward, Charles, and David. 
Their deceased children are :' Harriet ; Hel- 
ena, died in September, 1876, aged forty- 
nine years, wife of William Weaver; Will- 
iam, died in 1848, aged twenty-two ; Louisa, 
died in 1890, wife of John Grubb ; George, 
died in September, 1892, aged fifty-five ; one 
died in infancy. David Snyder died in No- 
vember, 1886, aged eighty-one years and 
eleven months. His wife died in 1847, aged ' 
thirty-nine. 

Emanuel Snyder, father of John B. Snyder, 
was born in Northumberland county, Pa., 
September 27, 1832, and was reared in Perry 
county. He was a tailor and worked at 
that trade for twelve years, after which he 
was engaged for about five years in boating 
on the Pennsylvania canal, having in De- 
cember, 1869, accepted a position on the 
canal between Rockville and Losch Run. He 
was married, in Buffalo, Perry county, Pa. , 
September 27, 1854, to Miss Margaret, daugh- 
ter of John and Catherine (Raugh) Beigh. 
Seven of their nine children are living: 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1011 



Emma, wife of Samuel Crook, resides at 928 
South Ninth street, Harrisburg; Ida, wife of 
John Bidge, Susquehanna township ; John 
Beigh ; Margaret, wife of John Carpman, of 
near Niles, Mich.; Edward A., South Thir- 
teenth street, Harrisburg, Pa.; Serna, wife of 
William Klaiss, Lincoln street, Steelton, Pa.; 
Alice, wife of Benjamin Bomgardner/Twenty- 
first street, Harrisburg. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : Charles, died in August, 1877, 
aged twenty-two ; David, died in June, 1874, 
aged nine years. Mr. Snyder came to Har- 
risburg in 1876, where he was employed in 
day labor until 1890 ; he then retired from 
active work, and since that time has had his 
home with his eldest son. 

John Beigh Snyder received his education 
in the public schools of Perry and Dauphin 
counties. He was engaged for six years in 
boating on the canal, after which he was 
employed in the iron works at Harrisburg 
for about thirteen years. He served on the 
police force under Mayor Wilson for two 
years. In the spring of 1896 he removed to 
his farm, and is now engaged in agricultural 
pursuits. Mr. Snyder was married, at Liver- 
pool, Pa., March 13, 1884, to Miss Kate, 
daughter of David D. and Annie (Grubb) 
Putter. Their children are : Earl, born in 
December, 1884 ; Harry, February 28,1886; 
and Charles, November 24, 1887. Mr. Sny- 
der is a member of Lodge No. 160, 1. 0. 0.F., 
and has for ten years belonged to the Cen- 
tral Beneficial Society. He is a Republican. 
Mrs. Snyder is a member of the United 
Brethren church. David Ritter, father of 
Mrs. Snyder, was born in Perry county. His 
occupation is boating, and resides at Marys- 
ville. Pie married Miss Annie Grubb. Four 
of their children are living : Katie, Mrs. 
Snyder ; Ella, wife of Elmer Fulton ; Allen, 
and Harvey ; Ord is deceased. Rev. Dr. 
Ritter, grandfather of Mrs. Snyder, resides in 
Liverpool. The maternal grandparents of 
Mrs. Snyder were farmers, at Millerstown. 



Rutherford, Samuel Silas Brisbin, was 
born in Dauphin county, Pa., April 28, 1825. 
He is a son of John Parke and Eliza (Ruth- 
erford) Rutherford. Thomas Rutherford, 
first ancestor of this branch of the family 
in America, and of the fourth generation 
preceding Samuel S. B., was born in Ireland, 
June 24, 1707, and emigrated from that 
country in 1729. He was married in the 
following year, on September 7, by Rev. 
James Anderson, of Donegal, province of 



Pennsylvania, to Jean Murdoch, born in Ire- 
land, April 5, 1712. They had these chil- 
dren : Agnes, born July 9, 1731, died in 
1735, aged four years; Eleanor, born Jan- 
uary 16, 1733, married, first, to William Will- 
iams ; secondly, to John Donaldson ; Jane, 
born January 22, 1734, married Thomas 
Mays, and lived in North Carolina ; John ; 
Thomas, born August 14, 1738, died in 
1739 ; Agnes (2), born September 14, 1740, 
married William Gray ; Thomas (2), born 
February 12, 1743, died January 8, 1760, 
aged sixteen years and ten months, killed 
by falling from a tree which he had 
climbed for a squirrel ; Mary and Elizabeth, 
twins, born February 18, 1745 ; Mary, mar- 
ried Andrew Mayse ; Elizabeth, died Octo- 
ber, 1745; James, born August 28, 1747, 
died March 6, 1809, aged sixty-one years, 
married to Margaret Brisbin ; Samuel, born 
December 13, 1749, married Susannah Col- 
lier, enlisted as lieutenant in the Revolution, 
and was promoted to captain, died May 
2, 1785, aged thirty-five; Elizabeth (2), 
born February 27, 1752, married, first, Pat- 
rick Galloway, secondly, Patrick Harbinger, 
who was hanged by Tories during the Rev- 
olution, and thirdly, Thomas Archibald. 
Thomas Rutherford died April 18, 1777, 
aged seventy. His wife, Jean Murdoch, died 
August 10, 1789, aged seventy-seven. 

John Rutherford, son of- Thomas, and 
great-grandfather of S. S. B. Rutherford, was 
born in Dauphin county, Pa., February 16, 
1737. He was married, February 4, 1762, 
to Margaret Parke. They had seven chil- 
dren : Jane, born August 26, 1763, wife of 
Samuel Hutchinson, died February 28, 1807, 
aged forty-three ; Martha, born February 22, 
1765, wife of James Collier, died August 27, 
1849, aged eighty-four, was buried at Green- . 
field, Ohio; Thomas, born November 28, 
1767, died October 18, 1793, aged twenty-five 
years and ten "months ; Samnel, born July 
16, 1769, married Elizabeth Brisbin, died 
November 26, 1833, aged sixty-four ; Mary, 
born September 13, "1771, wife of Robert 
Gray, died August 16, 1863, aged ninety-one 
years ; John, born January 15, 1774, died 
May 1, 1832, aged fifty-eight; married, first, 
Jane Maeder, and afterwards Priscilla Bar- 
rett ; and William. John Rutherford was a 
farmer, and died October 1, 1804, aged six- 
ty-seven; his wife died in January, 1810, 
aged seventy-three years. 

William Rutherford, paternal grandfather 
of S. S. B. Rutherford, was born August 4, 



1012 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



1776. He was a farmer, and was twice 
elected to the State Legislature. He was 
married, March 17, 1801, to Sarah Swan, born 
January 1, 1779 ; daughter of William and 
(Renick) Swan. They had ten children, of 
whom the only survivor is Hiram, who re- 
sides at Oakland, Coles county, 111. Their 
deceased children are: .John Parke; Martha, 
died October 20, 1851, aged forty-eight; 
William Wilson, died March 13, 1873, aged 
sixty-seven, married Eleanor Grain, and re- 
sided on Front street, Harrisburg, Pa.; Mar- 
garet, died June 7, 1889, aged eighty ; Sam- 
uel, died March 26, 1872, aged sixty-one; 
Sarah, died March 28, 1873, aged sixty-one, 
wife of Daniel Kendig; Abner, died Sep- 
tember 2, 1890, aged seventy-six ; Mary, 
died April 14, 1818, aged ten months ; Cyrus 
Green, died March 30, 1850, aged thirty, 
killed by the falling of a tree. William 
Rutherford was a Whig. He and his wife 
were members of the Paxtang Presbyterian 
church. He died on the farm on which he 
was born and spent his life, January 17, 
1850, aged seventy-three. His wife Sarah 
died June 17, 1852, aged seventy-three. 

His son, John Parke Rutherford, father 
of S. S. B. Rutherford, was born in Dau- 
phin county, February 14, 1802. He was 
a farmer. In 1836 he was appointed super- 
visor of the Pennsylvania canal, and held 
that position for three j^ears, after which he 
resumed farming, and continued until 1861, 
when he was appointed quartermaster in 
the United States army, and served through 
the war. He also filled the office of county 
auditor for one term of three years. After 
leaving the military service he retired from 
active business for five years. Mr. Ruther- 
ford was married, in October, 1824, to Miss 
Eliza, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth 
(Brisbin) Rutherford. Of their seven chil- 
dren, five are living : Samuel S. B.; Eliza- 
beth Martha, horn June 26, 1833; Sarah 
Margaret, born August 21, 1835, wife of 
Job D. Randolph , Mary Jane, born Decem- 
ber 9,1837, wife of John Elder; Eleanor 
Gilchrist, born April 15, 1841. Their de- 
ceased children are: William Swan, born 
August 19, 1827, died January 24, 1895, 
aged sixty-seven years and five months, and 
John Alexander, born November 23, 1830, 
died December 17, 1891, aged sixty-one 
years. Mr. Rutherford and his wife were 
members of the Paxtang Presbyterian 
church. Both died at the old homestead : 
Mr. Rutherford May 12, 1871, at the age of 



sixty-nine, and Mrs. Rutherford January 30, 
I860, aged fifty-eight years. 

Samuel Silas Brisbin Rutherford attended 
the private schools of Susquehanna town- 
ship, Dauphin county, and was for one 
session at the academy at Middletown, Pa. 
In 1848-49 he taught in the public schools. 
On June 1, 1849, he received an appoint- 
ment to a clerkship in the Harrisburg post- 
office, which position he accepted, and occu- 
pied for four years and one month. He 
afterwards entered the employ of John H. 
Brant, commission merchant, as clerk, and 
was thus occupied for five years, when Mr. 
Brant went out of business. Through Mr. 
Brant's influence Mr. Rutherford was em- 
ployed as clerk in the freight office of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, where he 
continued until 1861. After this he was 
appointed clerk under his father in the 
quartermaster's department, and served 
until the close of the war in 1865. In 1866 
Mr. Rutherford came home and assisted his 
brother during the month of August. In 
September, through the instrumentality of 
Mr. Calder, he was sent to Baltimore; he 
removed his family to that city, and resided 
there until April, 1870, when he returned to 
his old homestead. He has resided there 
ever since, and attended personally to the 
cultivation of the land until 1876, when he 
gave up active duties. Mr. Rutherford was 
married, at Harrisburg, August 28, 1860, to 
Miss Mary Caroline, daughter of James and 
Ann (Reigel) Walker; born October 1, 1842. 
They had five children: James W., born 
April 1, 1862; John P., born July 4, 1864; 
Bessie, wife of James A. Rutherford, born at 
Baltimore, Md., February 24, 1867; Ram- 
sey, born in Baltimore, June 17, 1869; 
Thomas Wilson, born December 24, 1873. 
Mrs. Rutherford died September 26, 1874, 
aged thirty-two. Mr. Rutherford was mar- 
ried the second time, March 22, 1888, to 
Miss Annie Walker, sister of his first wife, 
born September 4, 1843. Of this marriage 
there is no issue. Mr. Rutherford has filled 
various township offices. In 1S76 he was 
elected assessor, and served one year ; he 
was re-elected in 1879, 1880 and 1882. He 
is a Republican. He is a member of the 
Paxtang Presbyterian church, and is a 
trustee and the treasurer of the church. 
James Walker, father of Mrs. Rutherford, is 
a native of Dauphin county, and a mill- 
wright. He was also a miller for a number 
of years ; he subsequently bought a farm, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1013 



spent the remainder of his life in agricul- 
tural pursuits. His wife also was a native 
of Dauphin county. 

Rutherford, John P., was born in Swa- 
tara township, Dauphin county, Pa., July 
4. 1864. He is a son of Samuel Silas Bris- 
born and Mary (Walker) Rutherford. A 
sketch of his parents appears elsewhere in 
this volume. He was first a pupil in the 
common schools of Swatara township and 
afterwards for five years attended the Har- 
risburg Academy. After completing his 
school course he was employed for a year 
as clerk in the clothing store of Elder & 
Tash, North Third street, Harrisburg. In 
the spring of 1882 he entered the employ of 
the Union Pacific Railroad Company, at 
their headquarters at Omaha, Neb., as book- 
keeper in the bridge department, and served 
in this capacity for eighteen months. In 
the latter part of 1884 Mr. Rutherford went 
to Western Kansas, and was for some time a 
dealer in cattle. Then for a year and a half 
he was in charge of the grocery store of his 
brother, James W. Rutherford, at-Argonia, 
Sumner count}', in the southern central part 
of Kansas. Mr. Rutherford returned from the 
West in January, 1889, and began house- 
keeping in Paxtang township, near Harris- 
burg, his old home, where he has resided 
since that date. In the latter part of 1889 
he took charge of the stone quarry of John 
A. Rutherford, which lie superintended for 
two years. In 1892 he secured the position 
of yard foreman of the bridge department of 
the Pennsylvania Steel Works at Steelton, 
Pa., and served in this capacity for one 
year; he was then promoted to be foreman 
of the works, which place he still holds. 
Mr. Rutherford was married, December 3, 
1888, to Miss Alice E., daughter of Alfred 
and Martha M. (Henshaw) Hosier, of Ar- 
gonia, Kansas. They have two children : 
Silas B., born January 11, 1890, and Robert 
H., October 6, 1894. Mr. Rutherford is an 
active member of the Knights of Malta. He 
is a Republican. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Paxtang Presbyterian church. 

Mrs. John P. Rutherford was born near 
Cedar Falls, Iowa, August 26, 1864. Her 
parentswere natives of Indiana. Her father, 
Alfred Hosier, was a farmer. His widow, 
Martha (Henshaw) Hosier, removed with 
her daughter to Argonia, where she was a 
milliner and dressmaker for sixteen years. 
In 1890 she came to Dauphin county and 



made her home with her daughter, Mrs. 
Rutherford, for the rest of her life. Her 
death occurred in 1892 at the age of forty- 
nine years. Mrs. Hosier was a devout Chris- 
tian, born and educated as a Friend ; later 
she united with the Presbyterian church, in 
which communion she died. The paternal 
grandfather of Mrs. Rutherford was a farmer. 
Seth Henshaw, maternal grandfather of Mrs. 
Rutherford, was also a farmer, but has now 
retired from active business. Two of his 
children survive: Theresa A., wife of Rufus 
A. Walton, of Knightstown, Ind., and Will- 
iam H. 



Reed, John B., was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., August 31, 1832; son of Thomas 
and Mary (Gonse) Reed. His paternal 
grandparents were natives of Berks county, 
Pa. The grandparents on the maternal 
side were of the same county and by occu- 
pation farmers. Their family consisted of 
six children: Margaret, wife of a Mr. Mc- 
Elheny ; Catherine, wife of Daniel Barkert; 
Ann; William; Mary, wife of Thomas 
Reed, and George. Thomas Reed, father of 
John B. Reed, was born in Berks county. 
He was for a number of years a weaver, but 
later in life engaged in farming. He was 
married to Mary Gonse, daughter of John 
and Ann (Kurtzmoyer) Gonse. Of their 
eight children four are living : John B., 
William, Samuel, and Eliza. Their de- 
ceased children are : Mary, died June 19, 
1889, aged fifty-three years; Thomas, died 
in the army service in 1866 at the age of 
twenty-two years; Catherine and Sarah, died 
young and were buried at Wenrich's church. 
Mr. Reed died in 1883 at the age of seventy- 
eight years and his wife died in 1873, aged 
sixty-six years. They were members of the 
Lutheran church and are buried at Shoop's 
church. 

John B. Reed made good use of such ad- 
vantages as the public schools of Lower 
Paxton township afforded. At the end of 
his school days he went to work with his 
father on the home farm, where he remained 
until he was twenty-seven years old. In 
1860 Mr. Reed went upon the farm of Mr. 
William Bomgardner, in Lower Paxton 
township, and cultivated it for eight years, 
after which he removed to the farm of James 
Raymond, in Susquehanna township, on 
wdiich he remained four years. Mr. Reed 
bought the farm which is now his home 
from John Millison. He occupied it for 



1014 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



four years and then removed to the farm of 
James Boyd ; after eight years' occupancy 
of that place he returned to his own farm, 
where he has ever since resided and which 
he has tilled up to the present time. Mr. 
Reed was married, in 1860, to Miss Sophia, 
daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Leasor) 
Elser. They have had five children : Mary, 
wife of Logan McOlintock, deceased; Eliza- 
beth ; Katie, wife of Edwin Eschenour ; 
John C, saddler, of Oberlin, Pa., and Charles 
P., employed in the Harrisburg Car Shop. 
Mr. Reed is a Republican. In 1889 he was 
elected supervisor of Swatara township, and 
served five years ; in 1894 he was re-elected 
to the same office. He and his family are 
members of the Lutheran church. 

Mrs. John B. Reed was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa., August 26,1826; her parents 
were natives of the same county. In early 
life her father, Peter Elser, was a carpenter, 
but at a later period he was a farmer. He 
was married to Miss Elizabeth, daughter 
of Sophia Leasor. Four of their five chil- 
dren are living: John L.; George L.; Kate, 
wife of William Paul, deceased, and Sophia. 
Mrs. Reed. Elizabeth died at the age of 
eleven years. Mr. Elser served as constable 
and as tax collector for a number of years. 
He was an elder in the Lutheran church. 
He died in 1886 at the age of seventy- five 
years; his wife died in 1881, aged sixty- 
seven years. They are buried in Lancaster 
county, at Brickerville church. Mrs. 
Reed's grandparents on the mother's side 
had a family of five children. They be- 
longed to the Lutheran church. 



Rupp, Samuel E., is one of the nvst prom- 
inent and enterprising young business men 
of his township. He is a native of Dauphin 
county, and was born in Swatara township, 
May 31, 1866. He is a son of the late Sam- 
uel and Fannie (Horst) Rupp. Mr. Rupp 
was brought up on the farm, and received a 
few months instruction each year in the 
township schools, being occupied with farm 
work during the busy seasons. This con- 
tinued until he was fifteen years old, when 
he enjoyed the advantages of a course at the 
Harrisburg Business College. He finished 
his educational training at the Lebanon Val- 
ley College, from which he was graduated in 
1887. He then spent two years in traveling 
through the Western States, and visiting the 
Rocky Mountain region. Not' finding any 
locality which afforded him better business 



opportunities than his own section of the 
country, he returned to Pennsylvania, and 
opened a real estate office in the College 
Block, Harrisburg. In December, 1895, he 
removed his office to No. 306 Market street, 
where he is doing a prosperous business in 
real estate. Mr. Rupp is not married, but 
has his residence on the old homestead in 
Swatara township, where he is delightfully 
situated, it being oue of the finest farms in the 
county. Mr. Rupp's political views are Re- 
publican. He has good natural abilities 
and is trained to the best use of his talents. 
He has made a promising beginning of his 
career, and his future is bright with hope. 



Attick:, Jacob A., was born in York 
county, Pa., September 19, 1846 ; son of 
Jacob and Jane (Shook) Attick. Jacob At- 
tick, Sr., was born in York county, Septem- 
ber 5, 1812 ; he was a farmer and was mar- 
ried to Miss Jane Shook, who was born in 
York county. They had nine children, 
seven of whom are living: Sarah, wife of 
Samuel Sail; William A.; Martin; Harry 
H.; Jacob A.; Alice, wife of Simon Dacker ; 
Elizabeth, wife of Ross Ducher. The de- 
ceased children are : Hannah Mary and John 
A. Mr.Attick was justice of the peace forsome 
years ; he also served several years as super- 
visor. He died at the age of seventy-five 
years; his wife died September 6, 1878, aged 
sixty-four years ; both died in Dauphin 
county. 

Jacob A. Attick attended the common 
schools and was engaged in farm work with 
his father until he was twenty-one. He was 
then employed for two years in the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Works, after which he learned 
carpentry and worked at that business for 
about twelve years. For the ensuing ten 
years he was again employed at the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Works. In 1889 Mr. Attick 
undertook farming ; for three years he cul- 
tivated land near Middletown, Pa.; he then 
removed to the farm lately owned by Mr. 
Frantz, and at present by W. F. Rutherford, 
where he has since lived. Mr. Attick was 
married, April 24, 1870, to Miss Amanda 
W., daughter of Michael and Susan (Nissley) 
Barnhard,born in Dauphin county, Septem- 
ber 19, 1848. Of their thirteen children 
eight are living : William J., Susan, Bessie 
E., Ira R., Eva L., Sarah G., Francis C, and 
Ruth V. Their deceased children are : Jen- 
nie I., died at the age of twenty months; 
Edith A., Clara, Rosa, and one died an infant. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1015 



Mr. Attick holds Prohibitionist views and 
votes with that party. He is a member of 
the United Brethren church. 

Michael Barnhard, father of Mrs. J. A. 
Attick, was a weaver, born in Dauphin 
county. He was married to Miss Susan 
Nissley, who was born in Dauj>hin county. 
They had two children : Amanda, Mrs. At- 
tick ; and Ellen, wife ofJacob Rupert. Mr. 
Barnhard was married a second time, and 
to this union there were born three chil- 
dren : Henry ; Eliza, widow of William 
Smith, and Sarah, wife of George Fide. Mr. 
Barnhard died in January, 1893, aged 
eighty-six years ; his wife died in 1890 at 
the age of seventy-six. Mr. and Mrs. Barn- 
hard are members of the Lutheran church. 



Attick, Daniel, was born in York county, 
Pa., December 15, 1821, and is a son of Peter 
and Catherine (Sudden) Attick. His ma- 
ternal grandfather, John Sudden, was a na- 
tive of York county, a farmer, and a soldier 
in the Revolutionary war. He had a family 
of seven children : John, Peter, Daniel, Han- 
nah, Barbara, Catherine, and Sallie. Mr. 
Sudden died at the age of one hundred and 
one years. His son, Peter Attick, father of 
Daniel, was born in York county, and was a 
weaver. He was married to Miss Catherine, 
daughter of John Sudden. Of their nine 
children four are living: Daniel, Abraham, 
Peter, and Catherine, wife of John Henry. 
Their deceased children are : John ; Henry ; 
Jacob, died August 20, 1887, aged seventy- 
five years ; George, died March 3, 1S63, aged 
forty-four years ; Elizabeth, wife of Samuel 
Sedler. Both parents died in York county. 

Daniel Attick attended the subscription 
schools of his locality until he was sixteen 
years old. He was then for two years em- 
ployed as a farm hand. Thinking it would 
be of advantage to have a trade, he served 
an apprenticeship of two years at black- 
smithing. He then, at eighteen years of 
age, came to Dauphin county and hired on 
a farm for one year, and afterwards for two 
years more. After his marriage he took the 
farm of Philip Daugherty, where he re- 
mained for twenty-five years. He next re- 
moved to Paxton township, remained there 
five years, and in 1881 removed to what is 
known as the Gray farm, which has ever 
since been his residence. Mr. Attick was 
married, August 2, 1849, to Miss Mary Ann, 
daughter of Benjamin and Christiana 
(Lauderbach) Mefferd. They had twelve 



children, of whom eleven are living: Will- 
iam, John B., Franklin P., Daniel, Sarah, 
Mrs. John Dieth; George W., James, Samuel, 
Edward, Ellen, and Ida G; Susan died No- 
vember 2, 1891, aged thirteen years. Mr. 
Attick is a Democrat. Mrs. Daniel Attick 
was born March 12, 1831, and died March 
15, 1890, aged fifty-eight. Her father, Ben- 
jamin Mefferd, was born in Dauphin county. 
His wife, Christiana Lauderbach, was a na- 
tive of German}'. They had four children: 
Sarah, wife of Isaac Houck ; Rebecca, wife 
of Daniel Seiders ; Mary, Mrs. Attick ; and 
Cornelia, who died July 15, 1894, aged fifty- 
six years. Mrs. Mefferd died November 18, 
1894, at the age of fifty-eight. Both were 
members of the United Brethren church. 



Walker, James Rutherford, was born 
in Dauphin county, Pa., January 9, 1849 ; 
son of James and Susan (Kuhn) Walker. 
ThomasWalker, his parental grandfather, was 
born in Scotland. He was a cabinet maker, but 
later in life was engaged in farming. He 
married Mary, widow of Thomas Rutherford, 
by whom he had four children; the only 
surviving one is Susan, wife of Moses Foley. 
Their deceased children are: Jacob S.; James; 
Eliza, died in November, 1894; she was the 
wife of William Follinger; Rutherford died 
in infancy. Jacob Kuhn, maternal grand- 
father of James R. Walker, was born in Lan- 
caster county, and was a cabinet maker. For 
a number of years he kept hotel ; in 1825 he 
was steward of the Dauphin county alms- 
house. Mr. Kuhn's wife was Susan Kunkel. 
Mr. and Mrs. Kuhn had ten children, but 
one of whom is living, Sarah, wife of Joseph 
Hoover, of Galesburg, 111. The deceased chil- 
dren are: William, Jacob, Samuel, George, 
Mary, Catherine, Henrietta, Susan, and Ann. 
Mr. Kuhn had retired from active business, 
relinquishing farming, in which he had for 
some time been engaged, some years before 
his death, which occurred when he was 
seventy-six years old. They were members 
of the Lutheran church. 

James Walker, Sr., was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., October 9, 1814. He learned 
the trade of a millwright, and afterwards en- 
gaged in milling; in 1885 lie abandoned the 
mill for the farm ; after tilling the ground 
for three years he gave up all active busi- 
ness. At one time, in partnership with W. 
S. Rutherford, he had dealt in ice. The first 
wife of Mr. Walker was Miss Annie Riegel; 
they had two daughters : Mary, deceased, 



1016 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



wife of Silas B. Rutherford ; and Ann, sec- 
ond wife, of Silas B. Rutherford. Mr. Walker 
was married, the second time, to Miss Kuhn, 
born in Dauphin county, May 31, 1825 ; 
daughter of Jacob and Susan (Kunkel) 
Kuhn. Their children are : Jacob K., mar- 
ried Sallie, daughter of Peter and Barbara 
Fiske ; Alice L., wife of Thomas R. Walker, 
and James R. Mr. Walker filled various 
township offices, having served as school di- 
rector, and also for many years as assessor. 
He was a Republican. He was a member 
of the Presbyterian church, and a trustee of 
his congregation. Mr. James Walker, Sr., 
died September 10, 1895, aged eighty-one 
yeais ; his wife died September 28, 1885 ; the 
remains of both are interred in the Paxtang 
cemetery. 

James Rutherford Walker took the ordi- 
nary course of instruction in the puhlic 
schools, and completed his school education 
in the Harrisburg Academy, under Prof. 
Jacob Seiler. His academic course ended, 
he went into the mill with his father, who 
carefully instructed him in all branches of 
the milling business, which he lias made his 
occupation u p to the present time. Mr. Walker 
was married, in Swatara township, April 24, 
1884, to Miss Sallie Jenkins, daughter of 
John and Elizabeth Peifer, born February 
4, 1860. They have one son, James Boyd, 
born June 13, 1885. Mr. Walker is identi- 
fied with the Republican party. His frater- 
nity association is with the Knights of Malta. 
He and his family are members of the Pax- 
tang Presbyterian church. Mrs. Walker's 
father, Mr. John Peifer, was born in Dau- 
phin county, May 31, 1836. He is a carpen- 
ter, and is also engaged in farming. He re- 
sides near Paxtang street, and was married 
to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Christian 
Casslow. Mrs. Peifer died October 2, 1895. 
Mr. Peifer is prominent and active in town- 
ship affairs. He was elected to the office of 
school director, in which he served many 
years with credit and usefulness. He has 
also, for a number of years, been judge of 
elections. 



Rutherford, S. A., was born in Dauphin 
county. Pa., October 6, 1866; son of the late 
William S. and J. Eliza Rutherford. Mr. 
Rutherford belongs to the sixth generation 
of the American branch and is descended 
from the well-known family of that name 
who emigrated from Scotland and settled in 
the north of Ireland upon the accession of 



William of Orange, in 1688, and from thence 
came to America in 1728. His parents are 
both natives of Dauphin county. Mr. Will- 
iam S. Rutherford was raised a farmer, and 
after reaching manhood was for ten years 
engaged in agriculture, at the same time 
carrying on a lumber business in Harris- 
burg. He was honored by election to va- 
rious township offices ; was for some years 
director of the poor ; for ten years he was 
steward of the Pennsylvania State Hospital 
for the Insane. His last business enterprise 
was the ice business at Harrisburg. At the 
time of his death he was living retired from 
active work. His wife was the daughter of 
S. S. and Mary A. Rutherford, of Paxtang. 
Their family consisted of ten children, of 
whom six survive : Mary B., S. A., Eliza E., 
William S., E. F., and Margaretta S. The 
deceased children are : Jessie, died July 24, 
1864, aged six months and three days; Ger- 
trude, died August 7, 1879, aged seven 
months and nineteen days; James, died 
July 28; 1873, aged twenty-eight days, and 
Martha, died March 31, 1875, aged three 
months and twenty-two days. William S. 
Rutherford died January 24, 1895, aged 
sixty-seven years, and his wife May 20, 1891, 
aged fifty j'ears. Mr. Rutherford was an 
active Republican. He was a member of 
the Pine Street Presbyterian church, of 
Harrisburg. 

S. A. Rutherford received his education 
in the public schools of Harrisburg, Pa., 
from which he graduated in 1885, and in 
the Pennsylvania State College, where he 
took a course in agriculture in 1896. He 
served as clerk with bis father in the ice 
business for about six months. In the 
spring of 1886 he came to the old Ruther- 
ford homestead, which has been in possession 
of the family for one hundred and fort} - -two 
years, and where he is living a retired life. 
He has a large interest in the Rutherford 
Ice Company, of Harrisburg, Pa. For the 
past three months Mr. Rutherford has been 
traveling in the South for the purpose of 
securing a suitable location for engaging in 
farming. He is a staunch Republican in 
politics. 



Nisley, Samuel, was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 24, 1818 ; son of Jacob 
and Elizabeth (Rice) Nisley. John Nisley, 
his paternal grandfather, was a native of 
Dauphin county, and a farmer. His chil- 
dren were: John, Jacob, and Martin. He 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1017 



and his wife both died at an advanced age. 
John Rice, maternal grandfather of Samuel 
Nisley, was a native of Germany. He came 
to this country about 1800 as a sailor boy. 
He married, and had a family of three chil- 
dren : John, Daniel, and Elizabeth, mother 
of Mr. Nisley. 

His father, Jacob Nisley, was born in 
Dauphin county, and was a farmer. His 
first wife was a Miss Nisley, daughter of 
Jacob and Mary Nisley. They bad five 
children. Mr. Nisley's second wife was Miss 
Egle, by whom he had three children, all 
of whom are deceased : Jacob, died in 1894, 
aged eighty -seven ; Barbara, wife of Jacob 
Snavely, died in 1842, aged fifty years ; 
Susan, wife of John Mumma, deceased, and 
again married to Michael Barnhard ; she died 
in 1893, aged eighty-three years; and Abra- 
ham, died in 1890, aged seventy-six years. 
Mr. Nisley was married the third time, to 
Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John and Eliza- 
beth Rise ; of this marriage there were four 
children: Samuel; Kate, widow of Henry 
Gause; Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Blackville ; 
and John. Mr. Nisley was a Mennonite. 
He died in 1826, aged 78 years. Mrs. Nisley 
died in 1824, aged forty -eight years. 

Samuel Nisley lost his parents when he 
was very young, and on this account had 
but limited opportunities for securing an 
education. As is usual, a guardian was ap- 
pointed for him, but he found a home among 
strangers, and was brought up as a farmer's 
boy. Thus he learned the business, and 
finally became a farmer on his own account. 
Mr. Nisley was married, November 2, 1841, 
to Miss Maria, daughter of Frederick and 
Catherine (Diebler) Shaffner. Their living 
children are : Catherine, wife of Wendell 
Gross ; Elizabeth, wife of Dr. D. B. Traver ; 
Jacob A., married to Rhoda Hull; Fred. J., 
married to Sallie Johnson ; Mary, wife of 
Moses Young; Carrie, wife of John Whit- 
man. Their deceased children are : Will- 
iam H., died December 5, 1846, aged two 
years, eight months and twelve days ; So- 
phia, died January 6, 1852, aged twenty-five 
days; Samuel Otterbein, died July 7, 1861, 
aged two years, three months and twenty- 
one days ; Fannie S., died January 22, 1870, 
aged thirteen years, six months and twelve 
days. After his marriage Mr. Nisley was 
engaged in farming, near Linglestown, for 
ten years. In 1851 he removed to Harris- 
burg, where he was employed in the round- 
house of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 



pany for nine years. In 1865 Mr. Nisley 
removed toSteelton, where he was employed 
for six years by Donald Cameron as post 
fence maker; also for a few years by Mr. 
Dunkle. He then entered the employ of 
the Pennsylvania Steel Works, where he was 
engaged for about twenty years in various 
departments. After this he retired from ac- 
tive work. Mr. Nisley is a Republican. For 
sixty years he has been a member, and for 
forty years a class leader in the United 
Brethren church, of which Mrs. Nisley also 
is a consistent member. Mr. Nisley has long 
been a trustee of the church. 

Mrs. Samuel Nisley was born in Dauphin 
county, October 13, 1816. Her father, Fred- 
erick Shaffner, was also a native of Dauphin 
county, and was a farmer. His wife, Cathe- 
rine Diebler, was born in the same county. 
They had ten children, of whom six are liv- 
ing : Jacob, married to Miss Elizabeth Reily ; 
Isaac, married to Miss Mina Rogers; Philip, 
married to Mariah Alleman; Catherine, 
wife of George Miller, who died, and she 
then married Daniel Hicks; Barbara, wife 
of Solomon Ulrich ; Lavinia, wife of Levi 
Reider. Their deceased children are: 
George, died in 1883, aged 62 years ; Martin, 
was killed in the army; John, died in 1861, 
aged twenty-five years; one child who died 
in infancy. Mr. Shaffner died in 1888, aged 
ninety-four years. Mrs. Shaffner died in 
1859, aged sixty-two years. 

Gerdes, Henry, deceased, was born in 
Biklerbach, Westphalia, Germany, August 
18, 1830 ; son of Henry and Elizabeth Gerdes. 
Henry Gerdes, Sr., was a high school teacher 
in Germany, and occupied- the position for 
life. His children were : Andrew, a school 
teacher, in Germany ; Elizabeth, wife of Sam- 
uel Uhland ; the deceased children are : Her- 
man; Annie; Barnhard; who died in Har- 
risburg, March 29, 1894, aged sixty-one years, 
and Henry. Henry Gerdes, Sr., died in 1847. 

Henry Gerdes, Jr., was educated in his 
native country, and engaged in mercantile 
business. His three years of military service, 
required by law, were passed in the special 
troop of the Emperor, which is composed ex- 
clusively of men of large statue, well pro- 
portioned, without blemish and fine appear- 
ance. Mr. Gerdes came with his family to 
this country in 1867, settled at Harrisburg, 
and found employment at the pattern shop 
at Steelton, where he remained until his 
death, January 6, 1895. He was the first 



1018 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



pattern maker ever employed at the Penn- 
sylvania Steel Works, serving under Henry 
Cassel, and remaining with the company 
twenty-seven years. Mr. Gerdes was married, 
September 26. 1865, to Miss Amelia, daughter 
of Albert and Elizabeth (Casting) Lauder- 
mache. They have nine children, seven of 
whom are living : Albert, married Miss Mag- 
gie, daughter of Michael and Annie Palmer; 
Amelia, wife of Albert Gratz ; Oscar, Joseph, 
Ida, Arthur, and Bessie. Their deceased chil- 
dren are : William, died September 5, 1868, 
aged nine months; Adolph, died October 4, 
1891, aged fifteen years, killed by falling from 
tree. Mr. Gerdes was a Republican. He was 
a member of the Catholic church. 

Mrs. Gerdes survives her husband, and re- 
sides in Steelton, Pa. She was born in West- 
phalia, Germany, July 24, 1843. Her parents 
kept a general store. They had six children, 
only two of whom are now living : Albertina, 
wife of Abraham Shaffer, resides in the Father- 
land, and Amelia, Mrs. Gerdes. Their deceased 
children are: Wilhelm, Dora, and Adolpha 
Elizabeth. Mrs. Gerdes' father is deceased; her 
mother died aged sixty- four. The paternal 
grandfather of Mrs. Gerdes was a farmer and 
stock dealer. He had a family of six children, 
of whom two survive : Florence and Ludwig. 
The deceased children are: Henry, Joseph, 
and twin children, born deaf and dumb. 
Both grandparents died suddenly in Ger- 
many. 



Rutherford, John Edmund, was born in 
Swatara township, Dauphin county, Decem- 
ber 17, 1838. His parents were: Samuel S. 
Rutherford, born in Swatara township, De- 
cember 17, 1803, died January 23, 1872, and 
Mary A. Rutherford, born in the same town- 
ship^ June 14, 1810, died December 14, 1884. 

Mr. Rutherford received his education in 
the public schools of his native township 
and theMt. Joy Academy, Lancaster county. 

After leaving the academy, he taught one 
of the district schools in Swatara township 
for two terms, and after the breaking out of 
the war served a short period with the 
Pennsylvania State militia at the time of 
the battle of Antietam. In the spring of 
1863 he took service in the quartermaster's 
department of the volunteer army, and re- 
mained in that position until May, 1866, do- 
ing service during that period in the States 
of Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia 
and South Carolina, in the latter State being 
connected with the Freedman's bureau. 



Returning home in 1866 he followed the 
occupation of farming until 1875, and then, 
in connection with that business, went into 
the coal business in Harrisburg, continuing 
both until 1879, at which time he took 
charge of Senator J. D. Cameron's Lochiel 
farms, and subsequently the Senator's Derry 
farms, and other landed estate. 

Mr. Rutherford has been a director and 
the vice-president of the Steelton National 
Bank since its organization in 1886, and is 
also a director of the Steelton Brick Com- 
pany and the Middletown and Highspire 
Electric Street Railway Company. He was 
first married, February 18, 1868, to Miss 
Ann H. McPherson, daughter of John and 
Ann (Hammond) McPherson, of Frederick, 
Md. Their children are : Samuel McPher- 
son, born September 5, 1869; Robert M., 
born November 25, 1871 ; Nannie H, born 
May 2, 1874; Mary Agnes, born October 7, 
1877, died December 5, 1881. Mrs. Ruther- 
ford died April 3, 1882, aged thirty-eight 
years. Mr. Rutherford was again married, 
March, 1887, to Miss Delia McCullough, 
daughter of James T. and Catharine (Mitch- 
ell) McCullough, of Maryland. They have 
no issue. Her father was a prominent law- 
yer and her grandfather was a physician. 
In his political views Mr. Rutherford is an 
Independent Republican, and in religious 
belief a Presbyterian. 



Alleman, Michael R., was born near 
Middletown, Dauphin county, June 25, 
1825; son of Michael and Catharine (Rudy) 
Alleman. The father, Michael Alleman, 
was born January 28, 1794, on the old 
homestead in Swatara township, near High- 
spire, Dauphin county. His first occupation 
was school teaching, and subsequently he 
became a farmer, and was engaged from 
that on solely in agricultural pursuits until 
his death, May 24, 1868 ; he is buried in 
Middletown cemetery. His wife died March 
30, 1889, aged eighty-five years. They had 
six children, all of whom grew to maturity: 
Susan, wife of John Kope ; Elizabeth, wife 
of John Foltz; Henry; Mariah, wife of 
Michael Connelly, of Middletown ; Michael 
R., deceased ; and Joseph W., deceased. He 
and his wife were members of the Lutheran 
church, in which he held the offices of 
elder, deacon and trustee at the time of his 
death. 

Michael R. received his earlier instruc- 
tions in the subscription schools of that day, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1019 



and afterwards attended the public schools, 
supplementing his education by an academic 
course under Professor Saddler, at Middle- 
town, upon the completion of which he 
commenced teaching school. In 1853 he 
began farming and devoted his time to agri- 
cultural pursuits for about eight years, when 
in 1861 he removed to Middletown and re- 
sumed teaching and surveying, in which 
occupation he was employed until his death, 
August 13, 1870. 

Michael R. Alleman was married, August, 
1852, by the Rev. Ditzler, of Schaefferstown, 
Lebanon county, Pa., to Miss Leah Rover, 
daughter of George and Elizabeth (Mil- 
ler) Royer. They have these children 
living : Mary A., born November 14, 1854, 
a school teacher and at present engaged in 
teaching at the Home of the Friendless at 
Harrisburg; George R., born January 17, 
1857, married Anna M. Koons, daughter of 
Jacob and Mary (Bealer) Koons, and is a 
contractor residing at Steelton ; Frederick 
H. and M. Rudy, twins, born September 29, 
1860 ; these twins attended the public 
schools and completed an academic educa- 
tion under Professor Seiler at Harrisburg, 
after which Frederick H. was engaged in 
teaching school one term. In 1879 these 
brothers formed a partnership under the 
firm name of Alleman Brothers and engaged 
in the mercantile business on Front street, 
in Steelton, where they continued until 
1886, when they disposed of their entire 
stock and relinquished the business. In 
1888 the brothers formed another partner- 
ship under the old firm name of the Alle- 
man Brothers and embarked in the real 
estate and insurance business, in which they 
are still engaged. Frederick H. is also the 
superintendent of the Harrisburg and Me- 
chanicsburg Railway Company. Frederick 
H. was married, August 4, 1887, to Miss 
Lizzie Dunkel, daughter of Josiah and 
Mary (Bishop) Dunkle. Their children are : 
Margaret, born June 24, 1889 ; Mary D., 
born December 15, 1890; Frederick R., horn 
February 18, 1893 ; Ruth E., born January 
29,1895. Michael Rudy Alleman was mar- 
ried, April 30, 1895, to Miss Lillian A. 
Moyer, daughter of George D. and Sarah 
(Hoffman) Moyer, of Uniontown, Pa. They 
have one daughter, born April 14, 1896. 

The deceased children of Michael R, and 
Leah (Royer) Alleman are: Catharine E., 
born November 14, 1853, died November 
25, 1854; Monroe J., born December 12, 



1858, died August 27, 1873, and one who 
died in infancy. Michael R. Alleman was 
a prominent man and filled various county 
and township offices. He was appointed 
county surveyor in 1867 and served in the 
office until his death in 1870. He was an 
active member of the Lutheran church, in 
which he filled the various offices, being an 
elder and trustee at the time of his death. 
Mrs. Alleman is still living in good health 
at the age of seventy-two years. She resides 
with her sons in Steelton. 



Millhousb, Augustus S., superintendent 
of the foundry department of the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Works, was born in York county, 
Pa., March 13, 1843 ; son of Amos and Se- 
linda (Stoughton) Millhouse. The paternal 
grandfather of Augustus S. Millhouse mar- 
ried a Miss Monroe, and they were the par- 
ents of a large family. Amos Millhouse, 
father of Augustus S., was born in Chester 
county, Pa. He learned wagon making, and 
worked at that trade for a number of years, 
after which he came to Harrisburg, and was 
employed in the Car Factory, then just 
opened. His engagement there lasted until 
his death, which occurred July 9, 1883, in the 
seventy-third year of his age. His wife, Se- 
linda Stoughton, was born in Chester county, 
Pa. Their children are : Augustus S.; Owen; 
Lydia, wife of Joseph McClintic, of Perry 
county, Pa.; Elwood ; Anna, deceased; Eliza- 
beth, deceased ; Mary and Clara, died in in- 
fancy; Oliver, deceased. Both parents are 
members of the Church of God. 

Augustus S. Millhouse was very young 
when his parents removed to Dauphin county, 
where he attended the public schools until 
he was ten years old. He was then employed 
for about four years in the pattern factory 
in Harrisburg, after which he entered the 
Car Factory as an apprentice. In 1861, be- 
fore this engagement was over, he enlisted in 
company G, Fifty-fifth regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia volunteers, and served four years, receiv- 
ing his discharge September 1, 1865. He 
then returned to the Car Factory and com- 
pleted the term of his apprenticeship, after 
which he was employed for five years as a 
journeyman. When the new foundry was 
built, on Allison Hill, Mr. Millhouse was 
made foreman, and served in that position 
for six years. In 1876 he worked five months 
in the foundry at Reading, Pa. Returning 
to Harrisburg, he became foreman in the 
foundry department of the Pennsylvania 



1020 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Steel Works at Steelton in June of the same 
year. Later he was made superintendent of 
the same department, and has for the past 
twenty years filled that responsihle position 
with the utmost success and acceptance. Mr. 
Millhouse was married to Miss Catherine, 
daughter of William and Catherine (Tate) 
Bohl. Their children are: James W., book- 
keeper for the Kelley Coal Company ; Mabel, 
died June 2, 1894, aged twenty-three. Mr. 
Millhouse is a good Republican. He and 
his family are members of the Fourth Street 
Church of God. 

William Bohl, father of Mrs. Millhouse, 
was a native of Cumberland county, and a 
cabinet maker. For a number of years he 
kept a hotel in Harrisburg. He "was also 
justice of the peace. His wife, Catherine Tate, 
was a native of Cumberland county. Their 
children are: Catherine, Mrs. Millhouse; 
Mary, Benjamin, Charles, and James, de- 
ceased. Mr. Bohl is deceased, while Mrs. 
Bohl resides with her daughter, Mrs. Mill- 
house, and is in good health, at the advanced 
age of seventy-seven years. She is a consist- 
ent member of the Church of God. 



Tenney, Frank, assistant superintendent 
of the Pennsylvania Steel Company, was 
born in Boston, Mass., February 4, 1861. He 
is the son of Benjamin F. Tenney and Mary 
(Viles) Tenney. B. F. Tenney was born in 
Sutton, Worcester county, Mass., October 
27, 1813, and was for many years a mer- 
chant in Boston, but subsequently became a 
member of the Boston Stock Exchange with 
which he is still connected. Mr. Tenney 
was married, in January, 1861, to Mary 
Bowman Viles, daughter of John and Sally 
(Dudley) Viles, of Lexington, Mass. Their 
children are: Frank; Maud, wife of F. F. 
Sherburn, and Arthur, who died in 1866. 

Frank Tenney was educated in the public 
schools of Boston, finishing his course in the 
English high school in 1879. He then took 
a four years' course in metallurgical and 
mining engineering in the Massachusetts 
Institute of Technology, receiving the degree 
of S. B. in 1883. Shortly after graduating 
Mr. Tenney came to Steelton and was ap- 
pointed assistant superintendent of the blast 
furnaces and served in this position until 
the fall of 1885 when he was transferred to 
Ashland, Baltimore county, Md., to take 
charge of some blast furnaces which the 
Pennsylvania Steel Company had leased. 
In 1886 he returned to Steelton and was 



made purchasing agent of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company, which he held until 1890. 
From this year until 1893 Mr. Tenney was 
assistant to the general manager, when he 
was promoted to be assistant superintendent, 
which position he has since that time filled. 
Mr. Tenney was married, in Hull, Mass., 
June 4, 1889, to Miss Edith C, daughter of 
George F. and A. F. (Cutler) Bouve, of Bos- 
ton. Their children are : John B., born 
June 26, 1890 ; Margaret, April 1, 1892, and 
Katharine, October 5, 1894. Mr. Tenney's 
politics are Republican. He is a member of 
the school board of Steelton. 



Shaffner, Francis W., superintendent 
of the supply department, Pennsylvania Steel 
Works, Steelton, Pa., was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., February 22, 1845 ; son of George 
and Christina (Book) Shaffner. The Shaff- 
ner family are of Swiss descent. Frederick 
Shaffner, grandfather of Francis W., was a 
farmer. He married Miss Catherine Deibler. 
Mr. Shaffner died aged ninety-four years. 

George Shaffner, father of F. W., died aged 
sixty -two. He was married to Miss Christina 
Book. They had nine children : Frederick; 
Francis W.; John ; Samuel ; Mary, wife of 
Jacob Lantz ; Jacob ; Emma, wife of Jacob 
Spangler ; Rosa, wife of Stewart Groninger ; 
William, who died in 1865, aged four years. 
Mrs. Shaffner died in 1867, aged nearly fifty 
years. She was a member of the Evangelical 
church, of Harrisburg. Both parents died 
in Harrisburg. 

Francis W. Shaffner attended the public 
schools of Dauphin and Lebanon counties, 
and at the same time assisted his father in 
farm work. He was afterwards, for two sea- 
sons, employed as a general laborer on the 
Pennsylvania canal and in boating. In 1859 
he began an apprentices hip of one year 
and-a half at coach making, after which he 
worked at his trade and at house carpentry 
until the breaking out of the war. In 1864 
Mr. Shaffner enlisted in company F, Two 
Hundred and First regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, served his time and was honorably 
discharged. While in army service Mr. Shaff- 
ner contracted a chronic disease, which in- 
capacitated him for manual labor, and lead 
to a decision to prepare himself for different 
pursuits. He took a course of eight months 
at the Iron City Commercial College, Pitts- 
burgh, Pa., and in 1867 secured a position as 
clerk with the Pittsburgh and Monongahela 
Coal Company, in which he continued eight 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1021 



months. He was next employed for a year 
and a half as clerk in the drug store of H. 
Meyers. He then returned to Harrisburg, 
and to his trade of house building until 
1876, at which time he was appointed super- 
intendent of the supply department of the 
Pennsylvania Steel Works. He has served 
in this position with credit to himself and 
the utmost satisfaction to the company up 
to the present time. Mr. Shaffner is identi- 
fied with the Odd Fellows fraternity, 
having been a member of Lodge No. 70 
since July 23, 1867. His politics are 
Democratic. Mr. Shaffner was married, 
in Reading, Pa., May 28, 1868, to Miss 
Sarah, daughter of David and Martha (Mc- 
Fadden) Bachstoss. Their children are : 
Clyde, born December 5, 1869 ; Gertrude, 
December 2, 1871, wife of Howell Bentecon ; 
Cora, born September 1, 1873. Mrs. Shaffner 
was born September 7, 1845. Her father, 
David Bachstoss, was for many years a tan- 
ner. He was married to Martha McFadden. 
Their children are: Eliza; Rebecca; Sarah, 
Mrs. Shaffner ; Kate, wife of John Clyde ; 
Edward ; Alexander, was killed on the 
Reading railroad, in February, 1893. Mr. 
Bachstoss died in 1891, aged seventy-four 
years. 



McEntee, Peter J., foreman of the open 
hearth department of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Works, was born in Lancaster county, 
Pa., January 8, 1871; son of Peter and 
Catherine (Lynch) McEntee. He attended 
the Dauphin county public schools until he 
was sixteen, when his school days were 
ended by his getting regular employment as 
door boy at the steel works. He served in 
this capacity for three years, and then, at 
the age of nineteen, began a three years' 
apprenticeship at steel working. He was at 
once recognized as a master mechanic in 
his line and was made foreman of the open 
hearth department. So satisfactory to his 
employers is his direction of the workmen 
in his department that he has been retained 
in that position to the present time. Mr. 
McEntee has a combination of qualities 
which render his services valuable. He is 
not only a first-class steel maker, but is able 
to make such assignments of place and 
work as to insure the best results, both for 
the men and the company. Mr. McEntee 
was married, at Steelton, June 24, 1891, to 
Miss Catherine, daughter of John and Mary 



(McGinn) McGeehan. They have had four 
children : Mary, born April 5, 1893; Anas- 
tasia, March 15, 1895 ; Joseph and John, 
twins, died in infancy. Mr. McEntee is. a 
Democrat. He is a member of the Catholic 
church. Mrs. McEntee was born June 13, 
1866. Her father, John McGeehan, was 
born in Lancaster caunty, in December, 
1834, and is a bricklayer and contractor. 
He was married, in January, 1862, to Miss 
Mary McGinn, daughter of Patrick and 
Catharine McGinn. They have had nine 
children : Edward ; Catherine, Mrs. McEn- 
tee; Anthon, John, Ambrose, Thomas, Mary 
and Anastasia ; James died aged two weeks. 
Mr. and Mrs. McGeehan reside at Steelton. 
They are worthy members of the Catholic 
church. 



Gross, Henry S., superintendent of the 
merchant mill department, Pennsylvania 
Steel Works, was born in Harrisburg, Pa., 
February 6 k 1854; son of Daniel W. and 
Elizabeth Kunkel Gross. Henry S. Gross 
attended private schools in Harrisburg, 
completing his course there in the Harris- 
burg Academy. At the age of seventeen he 
entered upon a course at the Pennsylvania 
Polytechnic College, Philadelphia, which he 
completed in three years, and was graduated 
in June, 1874. For the ensuing eleven 
months Mr. Gross was not regularly occu- 
pied. On the third day of May, 1875, he 
entered the employ of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company as learner in the Bessemer 
department. After his first year he was re- 
tained in this department as assistant fore- 
man for a period of three years when he was 
placed in charge of the steam hammers, and 
the manufacture of special steel billets. Af- 
ter serving two years in this capacity, he 
again entered the Bessemer department as 
foreman, remaining there until October, 
1884, when he assumed the duties of super- 
intendent of the merchant mill department, 
which position he has since held. He was 
married, in Harrisburg, December 7, 1881, 
to Miss Laura B., daughter of the late Robert 
and Elizabeth (BaileyJ Gorman, of Trindle 
Spring, Cumberland county, Pa. They have 
no children. Mr. Gross removed from Har- 
risburg to Steelton, January 6, 1885, and 
has since resided in that borough. He is a 
member of the Salem Reformed church, 
Harrisburg, and in politics has always been 
Republican. 



1022 



EIOGRAPMlCAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Miller, D. W., superintendent of the pat- 
tern department, Pennsylvania Steel Works, 
was born in Dauphin county, Pa., August 8, 
1840 ; son of David and Sarah (Woods) Mil- 
ler. David Miller was born in Lancaster 
county, Pa. He was a farmer from his youth 
until a few years before his death, when he 
retired from business. He was married to 
Sarah Woods, a native of Dauphin county. 
They had eight children : D. W.; J. C; Jane, 
wife of Moses Zimmerman, deceased; Mary, 
wife of Henry Smith ; Samuel B., deceased ; 
Harriet, deceased ; William W., deceased ; 
Sarah, died in infancy. Mr. Miller, now 
eighty-two years of age, resides with his 
daughter, Mrs. Zimmerman. 

D. W. Miller attended the common schools 
of Dauphin county for a part of each year 
until he reached the age of nineteen, when 
he became an apprentice to the trade of pat- 
tern making with the Harrisburg Car Man- 
ufacturing Company, and served four years, 
at the end of which time he entered the em- 
ploy of the Pennsylvania Steel Company, 
and worked at his trade for about two and 
a half years. In 1879 Mr. Miller returned 
to Harrisburg, and had charge of the pattern 
department of the Car Manufacturing Com- 
pany for eleven or twelve years. At the ex- 
piration of that time, in 1890, he accepted a 
similar position with the Pennsylvania Steel 
Works, which he still holds. Mr. Miller's 
mechanical skill and excellent business 
ability are proved by the long terms of his 
service with the companies employing him. 

Mr. Miller was married, in Harrisburg, 
April 4, 1861, to Miss Harriet, daughter of 
Frederick Duey. Their children are : Eliz- 
abeth, wife C. F. Gramm ; Susan, wife of H. 
R. Dasher ; Mary, Henrietta, Sarah, Robert, 
Henry R.; the last four are deceased. Mr. 
Miller is a Republican; he was for three 
years assessor of the Ninth ward, Harrisburg. 
The family are members of the Reformed 
church. 

Mrs. D. W. Miller was born March 12, 
1842. Her father was Frederick Duey, and 
for many years was a weaver. Their living 
children are: Caroline, wife of Paul Barn- 
hard, deceased; Simon D.; Elizabeth, wife 
of Samuel Stober; Catherine, wife of Jesse 
Long ; Henrietta, Mrs. Miller. Both parents 
died in Dauphin county. They were mem- 
bers of the Reformed church. Samuel Duey, 
paternal grandfather of Mrs. Miller, died at 
an advanced age. 



LeFevrb, James Hasbrouck, superin- 
tendent of the slabbing mill department of 
the Pennsylvania Steel Works, was born 
February 28, 1868, in Somerset county, N. J. 
His father, Rev. James LeFevre, D. D., a 
native of Ulster county, N. Y., has been for 
thirty-nine years an able and honored min- 
ister of the Dutch Reformed church, and 
his mother, whose maiden name was Cor- 
nelia B. Hasbrouck, was also a native of 
Ulster county. His parents had the follow- 
ing children : Egbert, Cornelia B., Laura H, 
Esther Dew, James H, and Joseph H. 

James H. received the usual primary 
instructions, and took a college preparatory 
course of four years in the grammar school 
of Rutger's College, after which he pursued 
the four years' course of study in Rutger's 
College, from which he was graduated in 
chemistry with the class of 1889. In the 
same year he was engaged in chemical 
work in the laboratory of Dr. Peter T. 
Austen for a few months. On November 1, 
1889, he came to Steelton, where he was 
given his present position, which he has 
ever since ably and acceptably filled. 

Mr. LeFevre was married, April 7, 1896, 
to Miss Florence G. Howard, daughter of 
George C. and Georgiana (Smith) Howard. 
Her father is a prominent and successful 
physician at Lawrence, Mass. Mr. LeFevre 
is a Democrat in politics. 



Rutherford, Samuel H, was born in 
Swatara township, Dauphin County, Pa., 
March 3, 1843; son of Samuel S. and Mary 
A. Rutherford, both natives of Dauphin 
county. Samuel H. attended the public 
schools of his native township, and after- 
wards took a course of three years in the 
Academy. He was then engaged with his 
father in farming until he was twenty-seven 
years of age. In 1870 he took up the dairy 
and farming business on his own account, 
and has been continuously emjdoyed in 
them up to the present time. In addition 
to his farm and dairy operations, Mr. Ruth- 
erford became, in 1891, the agent of the 
Rutherford Ice Company, with an office on 
Court avenue, Harrisburg. Mr. Rutherford's 
political opinions are Republican. On Feb- 
ruary 9, 1871, he was married to Fannie E., 
daughter of J. D. and Margaret S. (Bargtis) 
Sholl, natives of Frederick City, Md. Their 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1023 



children are : Samuel S., in the poultry 
business at Paxtang station ; and Jesse S., 
who died an infant, in 1875. Mrs. Rutherford 
died December 14, 1884, aged forty years. 
Mr. Rutherford was again married, November 
28, 1894, to Edith M., daughter of Benjamin 
and Matilda (Mitchell) Snively, natives of 
Greencastle, Pa. To this marriage there is 
no issue. Mr. Rutherford now resides on 
the farm bought by his ancestor, Thomas 
Rutherford, in 1755, shortly after his emi- 
gration from Ireland/which has been handed 
down in the family from one generation to 
another. 



and Elizabeth Hummel, of Hummelstown, 
Pa. They had one daughter, Alice Eliza- 
beth. Mrs. Nelson died on the 12th of 
August, 1887. 



Nelson, Arthur F., was born in Glouces- 
ter, Essex county, Mass.. May 19, 1864 ; 
his parents are John Edward and Alice 
(Warner) Nelson. 

Mr. Nelson's education was carried on in 
the public schools of Gloucester, Mass., until 
he reached the age of seventeen; afterwards, 
for two terms, he attended a private draw- 
ing school. This excellent foundation for 
further attainments being laid, Mr. Nelson 
came to Steelton, Dauphin county, and 
served an apprenticeship of two and a half 
years in the machine shop. He then went 
into the roll turning department, superin- 
tended by Mr. William George, and served 
under that gentleman for about two years. 
So well had the young man improved his 
time and opportunities that upon Mr. 
George's resignation he was placed in charge 
of the roll turning department as Mr. 
George's successor. At the time when Mr. 
Nelson became superintendent, the company 
had all new work finished outside. In 1889 
part of the present roll turning shop was 
erected, and from time to time it has re- 
ceived additions, until now this department 
is one of the most important in the plant. 
Its growth and present prosperity ai*e largely 
due to the diligence, skill and sagacity of its 
superintendent, Mr. Nelson. After having 
been for years a zealous and influential mem- 
ber of the Harrisburg Wheel Club, Mr. Nel- 
son is now its president. He has for five 
years been the representative from this 
State to the National Assembly of the League 
of American Wheelmen ; also representative 
of the Pennsylvania division of the League 
of American Wheelmen. Mr. Nelson is an 
adherent of the Republican party. He was 
married to Miss Mary E., daughter of Abner 



Baker, Charles P., was born in Dauphin 
county, September 18, 1843. He is a son of 
Samuel and Anna Maria (Haamann) Baker, 
the former a native of York county and the 
latter of Dauphin county. Mr. Samuel 
Baker had as his intellectual preparation for 
his life work little beyond his native intelli- 
gence, he having received no more than 
three months of school training and instruc- 
tion. He was a farmer, and increased his 
revenues by speculations in land. His wife 
was the daughter of Philip and Maria Haa- 
mann. They had eight children, five of 
whom are now living: Samuel, Jr., John, 
George W., Charles P., and William. Their 
daughters all died ; Mary on December 3, 
1857; Sarah E., August 6, 1889, and Eliza- 
beth, March 23, 1842. Both parents died in 
Mercer county ; Mr. Baker on May 10, 1866, 
at the age of fifty-eight, and Mrs. Baker on 
January 26, 1887, aged seventy-five. They 
were active members of the Reformed church. 

Charles P. Baker was educated in the pub- 
lic schools in Dauphin county until he was 
eleven years old, then in Mercer county, 
completing his course by studying for two 
years at Mercersburg College, Franklin 
county, Pa., which he entered at the age of 
twenty-one. He afterwards taught school 
in Mercer county for five terms. Then ex- 
changing literary for mercantile work he 
became a clerk in the store of Achre & 
Bright. He was afterwards employed in 
the same capacity by William Simmons, at 
Fredonia, Mercer county, entering this es- 
tablishment in 1868, and remaining for seven 
years. After the third year of this time the 
firm name changed to that of Simmons & 
Swab. In 1876 Mr. Baker spent a few months 
as a visitor in Harrisburg, Pa., and in 1876 
entered the employ of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company as timekeeper. Having 
faithfully performed the duties devolving 
upon him for four years and six months, he 
was made time recorder and still continues 
to hold the same position. Charles P. Baker 
was married, January 17, 1871, to Miss Kate, 
daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Lauder- 
milch) Fetterhoff, of Halifax, Dauphin 
county, Pa. He was in earty life a member 



1024 



BIOGRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



of the Reformed church, but since his twenty- 
eighth year he has been a Presbyterian. His 
political views are those of the Prohibition 
party. 

Whitney, Everett E., Steelton, Pa., was 
born in Hingham, Plymouth county, Mass., 
May 3, 1861. He is a son of Jason W. and 
Lydia A. (Davis) Whitney. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools of Hingham and 
at Comer's Commercial College, of Boston, 
Mass., completing his course by the time he 
was nineteen years of age. He then engaged 
with his father in the lumber and hardware 
business; but during 1882-83 he had a busi- 
ness in Boston. In the fall of 1883 Mr. Whit- 
ney went to Tucson, Arizona Territory, and 
remained there until July, 1886; he then re- 
turned for a few months to Massachusetts. 
On September 10 of the same year he came 
to Steelton, and entered upon an engage- 
ment in the auditor's office of the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Company, serving in that capa- 
city until 1890. In that year Mr. Whitney 
was made auditor and cashier of the com- 
pany, and still occupies the same responsible 
position with undiminished faithfulness and 
credit. He was married, October 2, 1890, to 
Miss Katharine J. McCammon, of Middle- 
town, Pa., daughter of Elisha G. and Cathe- 
rine (Faber) McCammon. Mr. and Mrs. 
Whitney have one child, Jason McO, born 
February 8, 1894. 

Mr. Whitney is a lineal descendent of 
John Whitney, who with his wife, Elinor, 
emigrated from England in 1635, and settled 
in Watertown, Mass. An exhaustive work, 
entitled " The Whitney Genealogy" has lately 
been compiled and written by Frederick 
Pierce, of Chicago, 111. Also a very interest- 
ing and valuable work by Henry Melville, 
of New York, entitled the " Ancestry of John 
Whitney." It is only proper to say that a 
large majority of those persons in the United 
States who are named Whitney are descend- 
ants of John and Elinor Whitney, who set- 
tled in Watertown, Mass., in 1635. 



Davis, Charles S., Steelton, Pa., was born 
in New Bloomfield, Perry county, Pa., No- 
vember 14, 1864. He is a son of James 
R. and Margaret (Dougherty) Davis. Mr. 
Davis' great-great-grandfather settled in Lan- 
caster county, Pa., on coming over from 
Wales, about 1740. His great-grandfather, 
John Davis, moved thence to Shippensburg 
about 1760, where he became a farmer, a 



contractor for part of the old Philadelphia 
and Pittsburgh turnpike, a Revolutionary 
soldier, a member of the Pennsylvania Leg- 
islature about 1818, and later a local Metho- 
dist Episcopal preacher. He had a family 
of one daughter and six sons, all of whom 
became more or less prominent : (1) Frank 
D. was a contractor on the Cumberland Val- 
ley railroad, superintendent of the old forge 
at Roxbury, Franklin county. His son, 
Wesley Reid Davis, D. D., is now pastor of 
Dr. Bethune's Dutch Reformed church, in 
Brooklyn. A daughter married Dr. Miller, 
of West Virginia. (2) Jessie L. was for 
many years the head of a bureau in the 
postoffice department at Washington. (3) 
Rev. Samuel died in 1822, at the age of 
twenty-nine while pastor of the Foundry 
Methodist Episcopal church, of Washington, 
D. C. (4) John W. removed to Carlisle, 
Ind., and was sent to Congress for several 
terms, was speaker of the National House of 
Representatives in 1847-48, was later gov- 
ernor of Oregon, was minister to China. He 
was for a number of years in the Indiana 
Legislature, speaker of the House there, was 
president of the National Convention that 
nominated Franklin Pierce. The late Rear 
Admiral John Lee Davis, United States navy, 
was his son. A daughter Mary married 
William Aiken, of Evansville, Ind.; Carrie, 
another daughter, married Attorney Gen- 
eral Denney, of Indiana ; Captain Denney, 
United States Marine Corps, being a son by 
this marriage. (5) Lemuel Davis, the grand- 
father of C. S. Davis, was a surveyor, justice 
of the j>eace at Shippensburg, teacher of the 
grammar school in Mansfield, Ohio, dying 
when but thirty-five years old, while on his 
way to Pennsylvania. He married Cathe- 
rine Reynolds, who was descended from a 
prominent French Huguenot family, which 
was obliged to flee to Germany to escape re- 
ligious persecution in France. Later they 
emigrated to Baltimore, and her mother was 
among the early Cumberland Valley settlers, 
coming there from Baltimore. They had 
but two children, James Reynolds, the father 
of Charles S. and Margaret G, who died un- 
married. James R. Davis married Margaret 
A. Dougherty. They had seven children, 
only three of whom are now living, Charles 
S. being the only living son. 

On his mother's side he is descended from 
Hugh Dougherty, of Silver Spring, Cumber- 
land county, a son of whom, George A., mar- 
ried Martha Shoemaker. The Shoemakers 





'ttwyyu- 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1027 



settled in the Cumberland Valley about the 
middle of the eighteenth century, coming 
from Lancaster county, Pa., John and David 
being the first of the family. Mr. Davis is 
descended from the former, who built the 
old stone homestead, yet standing, about 
midway between Newburg and Roxbury. 
It is yet occupied by the Shoemaker descend- 
ants, who constitute one of the largest and 
most respected families in the Cumberland 
Valley. 

Mrs. Davis' father is descended from the 
Kinneys who settled originally in Connecti- 
cut, moving later to New York, and yet later 
to Ohio. He served three years during the 
Civil war as lieutenant, adjutant of his regi- 
ment, being a long time in Maj. Gen. David 
S. Stanley's staff. Her mother is descended 
from the Delaplanes, a prominent French 
family, members of which settled first in 
Virginia, her branch moving later to Ohio. 

Charles S. Davis received his education 
principally in the public schools at Liver- 
pool, Perry county, completing his course at 
the Central State Normal School, Lock 
Haven, Pa., in 1883. In the years 1881-82 he 
taught the high school, at Thompsontown, 
Juniata county, Pa. In 1883 Mr. Davis began 
teaching in the secondary school at Steelton ; 
after one term in that school he was trans- 
ferred to the intermediate school, where he 
taught for four months. He was then, on 
January 1, 1885, made assistant j:>rincipal of 
the high school, and was in 1888 promoted 
to principal ; he still occupies that dignified 
and important post. In the first year after 
coining to Steelton, Mr. Davis edited the 
Daily Item during his summer vacation. Mr. 
Davis has been since 1888 a member of State 
Capital Lodge No. 70, 1. 0. 0. F., and of En- 
campment No. 56, I. 0. 0. F., both of Har- 
risburg : also a charter member of Com- 
mandery No. 108, K. of M., of Steelton. He 
is also a member of the Dauphin County 
Historical Society. His politics are Demo- 
cratic. He was married, July 14, 1892, to 
Miss Leonora, # daughter of John P. and 
Emma D. (Delaplane) Kinney. 



Earle, Thomas, Steelton, Pa., was born in 
Philadelphia, Pa., September 7, 1865 ; son of 
Henry and Martha (Barker) Earle. The 
family is an old New England one, having 
settled there about 1634. For several gen- 
erations the family lived in Leicester, Mass. 



Mr. Earle's grandfather, Thomas, was the 
first one of the family to settle in Pennsyl- 
vania. He was born at Leicester, Mass., 
April 21, 1796, and died at Philadelphia, 
July 14, 1849. He was a lawyer and writer 
of note. He practiced his profession in Phil- 
adelphia for many years, and was an in- 
fluential member of the State Constitutional 
Convention of 1837, and was the vice-presi- 
dential candidate of the Liberty party in 
1840. 

Thomas Earle attended a public school in 
Massachusetts for one year; was afterwards 
for four years a student at the Germantown 
Academy, Germantown, Philadelphia, and 
in the fall of 1883 entered the Rensselaer 
Polytechnic Institute, Troy, N. Y., from which 
he was graduated in the spring of 1887. In 
the same year Mr. Earle engaged as draughts- 
man with the Pittsburgh Bridge Company, 
Pittsburgh, Pa., and served in that capacity 
for one year ; then for one month occupied a 
similar position in the service of the Penn 
Bridge Company, at Beaver Falls, Pa. In 
1888 he went with Levering & Garringues, 
engineers and contractors, at Philadelphia, 
and was with them for fifteen months, draft- 
ing, designing and estimating on bridges and 
buildings. From the fall of 1889 to April, 
1891, he was assistant engineer on the Norfolk 
and Western railroad, being second in charge 
of the extensive improvements made by 
that company at Norfolk. In the spring of 
1891 he entered the employ of the Pennsyl- 
vania Steel Company, working in the draw- 
ing room of the bridge and construction de- 
partment, where he checked all drawings 
made, and also designed new buildings, be- 
ing so employed until July, 1892. He then 
went to Chicago, with Fraser & Chalmers, 
and was assistant superintendent of their new 
shops until January, 1893, when he returned 
to his former position as assistant engineer, 
in charge of the designing of buildings, at 
Steelton. Later in the same year Mr. Earle's 
faithful and valuable services received recog- 
nition and reward in his promotion to the 
position of superintendent of the shops of 
the bridge and construction department of 
the Steel Company's plant. This is his pres- 
ent position. Mr. Earle, while at the Rens- 
selaer Polytechnic Institute, joined the Theta 
Delta Chi Fraternity ; is a member of the 
Germantown Cricket Club, and since 1892 
has been a member of the Engineers' Club of 
Philadelphia. Thomas Earle was married, 



6 4 



1028 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



June 7, 1894, to Miss Sarah, daughter of 
Bassler and Ellen B. (Shirk) Boyer, natives 
of Lebanon county. They have one son, 
Thomas Earle, Jr., born June 6, 1896. 



Barnet, John J., Steelton, Pa., was born 
in Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa., Octo- 
ber 2, 1838 ; son of George and Barbara 
(Snyder) Barnet. Mr. Barnet's maternal 
grandparents were natives of Wurtemberg, 
German}'. His parents were both natives of 
Middletown, Dauphin county, where his 
father was born on July 29, 1813, and his 
mother on October 12, 1812. Mr. George 
Barnet was a saddler and cooper, but his 
principal business engagements were on the 
canal and the railroads. Mrs. Barnet, to 
whom he was married in the year 1838, was 
a daughter of Christian and Mary Snyder. 
They had nine children, of whom Susan 
died, aged ten years, and George, aged 
twenty-five years. The survivors are : John 
J.; Augustus; Annie, wife of John Daugh- 
erty, deceased ; Elizabeth, wife of Charles 
Hartline ; Clara, wife of Jacob McKinley, 
and, after his death, of John Brindle; Chris- 
tian, and Margarctta. Mr. George Barnet, 
at the time of his death, which occurred 
March 7, 1886, was in the lumber business. 
Mrs. Barnet died December 8, 1873, aged 
sixty years, one month and twenty-eight 
days. 

John J. Barnet attended the public 
schools of Middletown, Pa., until, in his 
eighteenth year, he began a six months' 
course at the Emaus Institute, at Middle- 
town. His school days ended, he lost no 
time in idleness, but engaged as clerk in the 
general store of Lauman & Crum ; in the 
following year he was away from Middle- 
towm, but on his return was received again 
into the employ of the same firm, and served 
them for two years more. At about twenty- 
one years of age he began a three years' ap- 
prenticeship at carpentry. At the end of 
that time he engaged with the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company as brakemau for one 
year, and afterwards with the Northern 
Central Railroad Company as conductor for 
about nine months. He was next ernjdoyed 
as a millwright until 1866, at which time he 
entered the employ of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Company. Mr. Barnet entered the 
service of this company as a carpenter. Only 
a year was necessary to make the company 



fully sensible of the value of his services as a 
skilled and versatile mechanic and a faith- 
ful employee. At the expiration of that time 
he was made foreman of the carpentry de- 
partment, and has continued for thirty j r ears 
to manifest the same qualities in that re- 
sponsible position. Mr. Barnet votes with 
the Democratic party. On November 13, 
1859, he was married to Miss Harriet A., 
daughter of John and Susan (Wise) Gurtner, 
of New Cumberland, Cumberland county, 
Pa. One of their family of seven children, 
William Augustus, died in 1864, aged three 
weeks. The living children are : Harry, 
Annie B., John Robert, Katie E., Florence, 
and Walter Herbert. 



Bent, Winslow B., Steelton, Pa., was born 
in Norfolk county, Mass., December 17, 1825. 
Mr. Bent is a son of Ebenezer and Nancy 
(Stehler) Bent, both natives of Norfolk county, 
where Mr. Ebenezer Bent was occupied with 
mercantile business, his lifelong pursuit. 
Mrs. Bent was a Miss Stehler. Mr. and Mrs. 
Bent had ten children ; only four are now 
living: Elizabeth, wife of William Monroe; 
Mary, wife of R. S. Hausman ; Winslow B.; 
and Edith S. 

Winslow B. Bent was a pupil in the public 
schools of Norfolk until he was eighteen, 
when he went to Quincy, Mass., to complete 
his school education. From 1842 until April, 
1848, he assisted as clerk in his father's store. 
In 1849 the golden gleam of California mines 
allured him, and he joined the great exodus 
of young and enterprising Eastern men of 
that State. There he no doubt shared the 
general experience of vicissitudes, often more 
spicy and agreeable in the subsequent rela- 
tion than in the actual occurrence ; but he 
pluckily remained in that State, engaged in 
various pursuits, for about fifteen years. 
Afterwards, from 1864 to 1879, he saw life on 
the broad western plains, in the service of 
the Union Pacific railroad. At length the 
pale glitter of steel drew Me. Bent eastward 
with truer, if more moderate, promise than 
the lustre of gold had held out; and in the 
employ of the Pennsylvania Steel Company 
he found a position worthy of his accept- 
ance — that of superintendent of the yard 
department. Mutual satisfaction of employer 
and employees have brought about a long 
tenure of the position, which he has held 
from 1879 to the present time. Mr. Bent's 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1029 



politics are Democratic. On March 10, 1859, 
Winslow B. Bent was married to Miss Jean- 
nette, daughter of Snellen Tomlinson. They 
have had three children : Snellen C; Alice, 
wife of E. C. Felton ; and Edith. 



Hocker, Rev. M. P., pastor of St. John's 
Evangelical Lutheran church, Steelton, Pa., 
was born at Union Deposit, Dauphin 
count}'. Pa., October 1, 1853. His mother, 
Barbara Martin, was a native of Cumber- 
land county, and his father, George Hocker, 
a native of Dauphin county, having been 
born at Hockersville, June 15, 1806. The 
father lived to be over eighty years old. 
His grandfather, Martin Hocker, lived to be 
over ninety-three years old, and was the 
founder of Hockersville, Dauphin county. 
He was one of three men appointed to run 
the division line between Dauphin and 
Lebanon counties ; the other two having 
been William Cochran and John Harrison. 

Rev. Hocker was named at baptism after 
his grandfather, in honor of which event a 
Mexican silver dollar, given at that time, is 
still in his possession. His boyhood days 
were spent in the place of his birth, work- 
ing on the farm and assisting about the 
hotel owned and kept by his father. Al- 
though his early environments were not the 
most conducive to the best morals, yet, 
owing to the blessed influence and the 
prayers of a precious mother, whose death 
occurred, however, before he was twelve 
years old, and the example and instruction 
of a most honorable father, he was reared to 
reverence holy things, and to regard honesty 
and thrift as the best human equipments 
for an honorable and successful career. 
Although the youngest of nine children 
his father, who was a strong patron of the 
common schools, gave him every advantage 
possible to secure an education. The oppor- 
tunities afforded were, in the providence of 
God, eagerly embraced, and an early aspira- 
tion to enter one of the professions was thus 
fostered. After a brief academical course 
he received his first apj)ointment as teacher 
in the public schools, at the age of nineteen 
years. By teaching school during the 
winter seasons and attending school during 
the remaining months of the school term 
at Palatinate College, Meyerstown, Pa., he 
was finally prepared to enter the freshman 
class in Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg. 
in September, 1876. After joining the home 
church in 1876, the hitherto fixed purpose 



to enter the profession of law was aban- 
doned for that of the gospel ministry. Re- 
ceiving some assistance from the church, he 
was enabled to complete the prescribed 
course without interruption, graduating 
with the class of 1880. He entered the 
Theological Seminary at Gettysburg in 
September of the same year. 

Throughout the college and seminary 
courses he supplemented the church allow- 
ance by engaging in manual labor, selling 
books, or in colporteur work. In the fall of 
1882 he was licensed to preach the gospel 
by the East Pennsylvania Synod of the 
Lutheran church, convened in Pottsville, 
Pa. February 1, 1883, he received a call 
from St. John's Evangelical Lutheran 
church", of Steelton, Pa., to come as their 
pastor. Being still a student in the senior 
class of the Theological Seminary, he could 
not take pastoral care of the congregation, 
but supplied them with preaching services 
until after his graduation in June, '83. On 
the 5th day of July of the same year he en- 
tered into holy wedlock with Miss Millie A. 
Farnsler, a daughter of Joseph Farnsler, 
Esq., one of the most prominent residents 
of Union Deposit. Two weeks later, accom- 
panied by his bride, he took full charge of 
the congregation in Steelton, being installed 
in his pastoral relation by the Rev. C. A. 
Hay, D. D., and Rev. M. Valentine, D. D., 
LL. D., on the 22d of July, 1883. A 
few months later, at the meeting of the 
East Pennsylvania Synod in Germantown, 
Pa., he was ordained to the ministry in the 
Evangelical Lutheran church of the General 
Synod. 

His entire ministerial life up to the pres- 
ent time, July, 1896, has been associated 
with his present congregation, it being his 
first and only pastorate. A record of his 
life work, therefore, necessarily involves in 
large measure, a history of this energetic and 
prosperous congregation, which was but 
eight years old when they called him to be 
their pastor. At that time they worshiped 
in a chapel of modest pretensions on Locust 
street, and numbered less than fifty mem- 
bers, and some of these discouraged because 
of disheartening conditions resulting from 
a period when they had no pastor in the 
field. Taking courage with the advent of 
the new pastor, the congregation soon re- 
gained their lost position and more. The 
chapel building was enlarged the second 
time within five years. About this time a 



1030 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



lot of ground was secured on the corner of 
Second and Pine streets at a cost of $5,000. 
In the fall of 1892 ground was broken for 
the erection of a tine church building. April 
30, 1893, the cornerstone was laid with most 
impressive services. A year later, July 15, 
1894, the completed church was dedicated 
to the glory of God. The handsome build- 
ing cost over $45,000, or $50,000 including 
the ground. The congregation now num- 
bers nearly six hundred, with a Sunday- 
school of about seven hundred and fifty 
members. 

In these thirteen years of his pastoral re- 
lations he has seen the most rapid advance- 
ment of the progressive borough of Steelton, 
witnessed the brilliant career of Major L. S. 
Bent, genera] manager and president of the 
noted Pennsylvania Steel Company, and the 
no less substantial success of the present 
honored president, Mr. E. C. Felton. Living 
in these environments, he has learned the 
animus of the community, has come into 
sympathetic touch with the noble people 
making up the bulk of the population, and 
so has learned to love the people and work 
for the community's interests. In his min- 
isterial work he has received nine hundred 
members into church fellowship, baptized 
four hundred and seventy-five children, per- 
formed one hundred and eighty marriages, 
officiated at two hundred and sixty-eight 
funerals and made at least eight thousand 
pastoral visitations in the homes of Steelton. 
Being in the prime of life, he naturally 
looks forward to a cai'eer of usefulness in the 
Master's service, if it so please the Great 
Head of the church, to whom shall be all 
praise forever. 



Monroe, C. E., superintendent of the elec- 
trical department of the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company, Steelton, Pa., was born in Lauder- 
bach, Germany, October 15, 1864. He is a 
son of the late Selmor and Rosa (Cor) Mon- 
roe, both natives of Germany. Selmor 
Monroe was in early life engaged in brewing, 
but later became a banker, and was in the 
latter employment at the time of his death. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Selmor Monroe 
were : Julia, Selmor, Theodore, Edith, C. E., 
Johanna, Ernestina, and Pollie; also, Barn- 
hard, deceased, and Isidor, who was killed at 
the battle of Sedan, in the Franco-Prussian 
war. The father died at the age of sixty- 
five, and the mother at the age of forty-eight 
years. 



C. E. Monroe was educated in the German 
public schools, and graduated from the high 
school, at Breslau, at the age of eighteen. 
He then took a four years' course at the Uni- 
versity of Munich. After a service of one 
year in the German field artillery, he en- 
tered an engineering school, from which, 
after a course of study covering two years, 
he graduated in 1887. He w r as then em- 
ployed for three years by the General Elec- 
trical Company, of Germany ; in 1890 he ob- 
tained a position in the electrical depart- 
ment of the patent office, at Berlin. Mr. 
Monroe came to Chicago during the World's 
Fair, and at its close entered the service of 
the Westinghouse Electric Company, of New- 
ark, N. J., where he remained for two years. 
In the fall of 1894 he came to Steelton, where 
he was made superintendent of the electric 
department of the Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany ; he still retains that position. 

Mr. Monroe was married, February 23, 
1895, to Miss Ella, daughter of Allen and 
Amanda (Newhard) Brader. They have one 
child, Selmor. Mr. Monroe is a Democrat. 
He and his wife are members of the Dutch 
Reformed church. 

Mrs. Monroe's grandfather, Charles Bra- 
der, was a native of Lehigh county, and was 
all his life a prominent business man. He 
had two sons: Allen and Franklin. He 
died in September, 1892, aged twenty-eight 
years. Allen Brader, and his wife Amanda, 
daughter of Reuben Newhard, were the par- 
ents of Mrs. Monroe, and were both born in 
Allentown, Lehigh county, Pa. Mr. Brader 
was a machinist, but was for a few years en- 
gaged in farming, and at a later time in the 
hat business, which was his occupation until 
his retirement in 1893. During the war of 
the Rebellion he was captain of company K, 
Fifty-first Pennsylvania volunteers, and after 
serving four years was honorably discharged 
in March, 1805. The children of Mr. and 
Mrs. Brader are: Henry, and Ella, Mrs. 
Monroe. Mrs. Brader died November 19, 
1886, aged forty-eight. Her husband sur- 
vives her, and resides at Cherry Ford, Le- 
high county, where he has filled several 
township offices. 



Newbecker, John J., master mechanic of 
merchant and billet mill, Pennsylvania 
Steel Works, Steelton, Pa., was born near 
Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa., February 5, 
1850. He is a son of Dr. J. B. and Caroline 
(Maize) Newbecker. His great-great-grand- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



1031 



father, John Martin Newbecker, came over 
the ocean from Rotterdam in the ship Edin- 
burg. He qualified September 15, 1749, and 
settled at the mouth of Powell's creek on 
the Susquehanna river, eighteen miles above 
Harrisburg. His son, Philip Newbecker, 
great-grandfather of John J. Newbecker, was 
first lieutenant of the Sixth company, Fourth 
battalion of associated battalions and militia 
of the Revolution, in 1777, under Col. Rob- 
ert Elder. Philip Newbecker, Jr., grand- 
father of John J., was a farmer and black- 
smith for many years at Powell's creek, 
Dauphin county. He was also an expert 
gunsmith and manufactured rifles and shot 
guns from the raw material. Some of these 
weapons are still in existence in. Dauphin 
county. He died about twenty years ago, 
at the age of seventy-eight, leaving three 
sons, George, Samuel, and John B. 

The third son, John B. Newbecker, was 
the father of John J. Newbecker, and was 
born at Halifax, Dauphin county, July 2, 
1820 ; son of Philip and Mary M. (Rhawn) 
Newbecker. He attended the schools of his na- 
tive borough, after which he began the study 
of medicine with Dr. S. P. Brown, of Hali- 
fax, and graduated from Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege in 1852. After practicing in Lower 
Augusta township, Northumberland county, 
until 1861, he settled in Trevorton and es- 
tablished his drug business, which he has 
since conducted in connection with his prac- 
tice. In 1862 the Doctor was commissioned- 
by Governor Curtin as assistant surgeon of 
the Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
in 1864 was attached to the White Hall 
hospital, Bucks county, Pa., and the Semin- 
ary hospital, Alexandria, Va. The Doctor 
is a Democrat. In 1871 he was elected to 
the State Legislature. He has served the 
township as treasurer, also many times as 
school director. He is connected with the 
Masonic fraternity and with the Independ- 
ent Order of Odd Fellows. Dr. Newbecker 
was married, in 1842, to Caroline, daughter 
of Henry Maize, of Dauphin county. Four 
of their children are living : Philip, a phy- 
sician, of Danville, Pa.; Louisa, wife of A. L. 
Bastress, of Lycoming county, Pa.; John J., 
master mechanic at Steelton ; and Mary M., 
wife of J. J. John, Lykens, Pa. Dr. New- 
becker is a member of the Baptist church. 
He is regarded as one of the representative 
citizens of Northumberland county. 

John J. Newbecker was educated in the 
public schools and at Dixon's Academy, 



which he attended until he was sixteen 
years old. He then learned his trade, that 
of machinist, with the Hickok Manufactur- 
ing Company, of Harrisburg, serving an ap- 
prenticeship of four years. He worked one 
year for the Harrisburg Foundry and Ma- 
chine Company and then went to Kansas, 
where he took charge of the King Iron Bridge 
Company, of Topeka, as master mechanic, 
remaining there until 1874, when he returned 
to his native place. In 1875 Mr. Newbecker 
entered the employ of the Snyder Manufac- 
turing Company, of Pottsville, Pa., builders 
of steam engines and mining machinery. 
After serving with this company for several 
years he became superintendent of the Sha- 
mokin Gas Company, and a year later began 
work for the Pennsylvania Coal Company, 
of Lykens, Pa., where he remained for a 
similar length of time. In 1878 he entered 
the service of the Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany and worked as a mechanic for four 
years. Then a new mill, known as the " mer- 
chant and billet mills" being erected, Mr. 
Newbecker was, in 1881, made its master 
mechanic, a position which he fills to-day 
with the same integrity and devotion to 
duty that have characterized his work 
wherever he has been employed. 

In 1891 Mr. Newbecker was elected a 
councilman of Steelton borough, in which 
capacity he served creditably for three years. 
He is affiliated with Robert Burns Lodge, 
No. 464, F. & A. M., Harrisburg, Pa., and 
with Steelton Conclave, No. 106, I. 0. H. 
He is also a director in the Steelton Home 
Water Company. John J. Newbecker was 
married, in 1880, to Alice E., daughter of 
John W. and Sarah A. (Nein) Geiger. Their 
children are : Leon M., Verna A., Margie, 
and Brice Atwood. Mr. Newbecker and 
family attend the Reformed church. 



Gallagher, Michael, machinist, Penn- 
sylvania Steel Works, Steelton, Pa., was born 
in Ireland, in August, 1846. He is a son of 
John and Bridget (Highland) Gallagher. 
His paternal grandfather, Owen Gallagher, 
was a gardener, and was all his life in the 
same business. He first married Miss Con- 
ally, and had two children : Thomas, and 
Michael. By a second marriage, to a Miss 
Gallagher, he had two children : John, and 
Bridget, both deceased. Mr. Gallagher's ma- 
ternal, grandparents were both born at Cassel 



1032 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Bar, Ireland. Their children were : Mary, who 
died at Pittsburgh, and who was Mrs. Thomas 
Reihra ; and Bridget, Mrs. John Gallagher. 
Mr. and Mrs. John Gallagher were both born 
in Ireland. Mr. Gallagher, like his father, 
was all his life a gardener ; he served in some 
of the finest situations in both Ireland and 
England. His wife Bridget was the daughter 
of Patrick and Magdalena Highland, men- 
tioned above. Their children are: Mar}-, 
wife of Michael Clark ; Annie, wife of Pat- 
rick Daily ; Michael ; Elizabeth, wife of Will- 
iam Burk; Jane, wife of John Kassie; Brid- 
get, wife of Patrick Mitchel, who died in 
1888. The father died January 1, 1883, aged 
sixty -four, and the mother June 26, 1892, 
aged seventy-five years. They were mem- 
bers of the Roman Catholic church. 

Michael Gallagher was educated in the 
common schools of Ireland. At the age of 
fourteen he went to England, and for four 
years and nine months was in the tin busi- 
ness. He then worked in the steel works 
until 1869. In September of that year he 
came to this country, landing at New York. 
A few days later he came to Steelton, and at 
once engaged with the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company as a general laborer. In a few 
months he was made boss hammerman in 
the hammer mill, and was afterwards pro- 
moted to his present position. With the ex- 
ception of thirteen months spent in Pitts- 
burgh and Chicago, Mr. Gallagher has worked 
continuously since 1869 with his present em- 
ployers. He is a Democrat. Michael 
Gallagher was married, March 30, 1875, 
to Mary D., daughter of Morris and Julia 
(Cavana) Murphy. Their children are: B. 
Agnes, Julia G., and Johanna T; Anna, died 
in May, 1882, aged three years and nine 
months ; Minnie, died September, 1881 ; and 
John H., died January 18, 1884. Mrs. Gal- 
lagher died March 13, 1888, aged thirty-six 
years. Mr. Gallagher is a member of the 
Roman Catholic church. 

The parents of Mrs. Gallagher were born 
in Ireland. Upon coming to this country 
they settled in Steelton, where Mr. Murphy 
has been constantly employed ever since. 
His wife was Julia Cavana. Their children 
are : Johanna, wife of Jere. Daily ; Michael, 
Thomas, Katie, and Ann, the latter born de- 
ceased. Mrs. Murphy is deceased, and Mr. 
Murphy resides in Steelton, and is now mar- 
ried to Barbara Kassie. They have one child 
deceased. 



Enney, George W., assistant foreman in 
the frog, switch and signal department, 
Pennsylvania Steel Company, Steelton, Pa., 
was born in Lancaster county, Pa., Novem- 
ber 8, 1861. He is a son of George W. and 
Catherine (Lenheart) Enney. The paternal 
grandmother's maiden name was Leah 
Wolf, and she was of German descent. The 
grandfather, John Enney, was born in 
White Hall, New York City. The great- 
grandfather was a Frenchman, and came to 
this country in 1772 and participated in the 
Revolutionary war under Washington. His 
name was George DeEnney, but after com- 
ing to America he no longer used the De. 
The elder George W. Enney was a rounds- 
man, and followed the same line of work 
continuously until four years ago, when he 
retired. He was a native of Lancaster 
county. He worked in Harrisburg for 
about eleven years, and then went to Dun- 
cannon, Perry county, where he had charge 
of the blast furnace for eleven years. He 
next went to Harrisburg, remained one 
year, and then removed to Steelton, where 
he now resides. He was married, July 4, 
1853, to Catherine, daughter of William 
and Jane Harman Lenheart, of Perry 
county. Their children are: William F. ; 
Ellen Almeah, wife of Edward Doj^le; Har- 
riet, wife of H. J. Stimmel, and George W. 
Both parents were members of the Lutheran 
church. 

George W. Enney, Jr., received his educa- 
tion in the public schools of Harrisburg, to 
which place his father removed when he 
was nine years old. At the age of seven- 
teen he left school and began to learn the 
trade of machinist with the W. 0. Hickok 
Manufacturing Company, after which he 
was employed by the Jackson Manufactur- 
ing Company, of Philadelphia, for two 
months. He next worked eighteen months 
for the Harrisburg Car Manufacturing Com- 
pany, in the foundry and machine depart- 
ment. In the spring of 1885 Mr. Enney 
went to Owata, Minn., where he remained 
for about three months, working at his trade 
with Charles Burdick. The next twenty 
months were spent in the service of Alt- 
house, Wheeler & Co., Waupan, Wis. On 
February 13, 1887, he commenced to work 
for the Pennsylvania Steel Company as a 
machinist. After serving for eighteen 
months in this capacity, he was promoted to 
the position of assistant foreman in the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY 



1033 



frog, switch and signal department, which 
position he fills with fidelity at the present 
time. Mr. Euney is a member of Robert 
Burns Lodge, No. 464, of the Masonic fra- 
ternity, Harrisburg ; of Dauphin Lodge, 
No. 160, I. 0. 0. F., and also of Car- 
thage Lodge, No. 194, K. of P., Steel- 
ton. He is a Republican, and takes a very 
active part in politics. He was married, 
December 4, 1881, to Lizzie, daughter of 
John and Catherine (Chalfant) Pelen, na- 
tives of Lancaster county. Their children 
are: Daisy, Maud, George, Jr., and Dewitt 
R. Mrs. Enney is a member of the Meth- 
odist church. 



long to the Methodist Episcopal church, in 
which he is trustee, and takes an active in- 
terest in the affairs of that religious organi- 
zation. He is also a member of the 
Y. M. C. A. 



Traver, David B., M. D., who is the phy- 
sician longest in active practice in Steelton, 
was born in York county, Pa., March 14, 
1841. His parents, David and Sarah 
(Bailets) Traver, were also natives of that 
county, and farmers by occupation. He re- 
ceived his literary education in the public 
and select schools, afterwards teaching for 
eight years in York and Cumberland coun- 
ties, and in the State of Illinois. He studied 
medicine under the able tuition of Dr. E. H. 
Coover, then of New Cumberland, now of 
Harrisburg, and was graduated from Jeffer- 
son Medical College in 1869. Dr. Traver at 
once took up the practice of his profession 
in Steelton, where, by strict attention to 
business, he has attained success, not only 
in the art of relieving the suffering, but in a 
financial way. He was one of the original 
stockholders of the East Harrisburg Railway 
Company, now known as the Harrisburg 
Traction Company. In his political views 
he is a Republican, but takes no active in- 
terest in party matters. He has served with 
credit as a member of the school board for 
three years in Swatara township, and for 
three terms in the borough of Steelton after 
its incorporation, and has been treasurer of 
that body, and also served as chairman of 
the teachers and buildings committees. The 
Doctor is a member of the Royal Arcanum 
and the E. A. U., for both of which organi- 
zations he is medical examiner. He is a 
member of the Dauphin County and State 
Medical Societies and the American Medical 
Association, and has been a delegate to State 
and National conventions. Dr. Traver was 
married, in November, 1871, to Miss Sarah 
E., daughter of Samuel Nisley, of Steelton, 
and has three children : Samuel N., Mary 
H., and Alfaretta. He and his family be- 



Booser, Henry, retired, Steelton, was 
born in Londonderry township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 3, 1825 ; son of Benja- 
min and Barbara (Goode) Booser. The 
father was born in Londonderry township 
in 1800, and was a son of Henry, a native 
of Germany, who came to America when ten 
years of age and settled with his parents in 
Londonderry township. The grandfather 
was a farmer and basket maker. He was a 
member of the River Brethren church and 
died in Londonderry township in 1838, aged 
seventy-six years. His children are: John, 
Henry, Jacob, Benjamin, and Barbara, 
married Peter Eshelman; all of whom are 
deceased. Benjamin, the father, was a 
farmer, and followed his occupation in 
Dauphin, Lancaster and Cumberland coun- 
ties. In his politics he was a Whig and in 
his religious views he was in accord with the 
River Brethren. He died in 1864 and his 
wife died in 1860. Their children are: Mary, 
deceased, married John Shell and located in 
Swatara township ; Catherine, died unmar- 
ried, and Henry. Henry was reared in 
Londonderry township, and received his 
education in the schools of that period. He 
engaged in farming in Swatara township 
and located on his present farm in 1843, a 
part of which is occupied by the plant of the 
Pennsylvania Steel Works. Mr. Booser is a 
stockholder in the Electric Light Company. 
He was married, in 1861, to Miss Emeline 
Musser, daughter of Samuel and Betsy 
(Spricker) Musser, of Lancaster county. 
They have five children : Aaron, of Steelton; 
Catherine, married Albert Longenecker, of 
Hummelstown ; Benjamin Grant, of Phila-' 
delphia; Mary Emma, and Lillie. Mr. 
Booser is a Republican in politics. His 
wife is a member of the River Brethren 
church. 



Babb, Charles H, justice of the peace, 
Steelton, was born in Chester county, Pa., 
September 25, 1833 ; son of Sampson Babb. 
The grandfather, Peter Babb, was the first 
settler of Tioga county, and took up a claim of 
eight hundred acres, subsequently known 
as the "Babb Tract," watered by what was 
afterwards named Babb creek. He died at 



1034 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



the age of ninety } r ears, having reared four 
children : John, deceased, hotel keeper in 
West Chester, Pa.; Jacob, deceased, farmer 
and lumberman in Tioga county ; William, 
lived and died on the Babb tract; and 
Sampson. 

Sampson, father of Charles H., was born 
in Tioga county in 1782, and in early life 
was employed by Stephen Girard as a 
master builder, having charge of the build- 
ing of the warehouses erected by that gen- 
tleman in Philadelphia, in which he was 
employed for about twenty years, after 
which he purchased the Washington Hotel, 
at West Chester, which he conducted for 
twenty-five years. About the time he moved 
to West Chester, he married Miss Charity G., 
daughter of Emm or Jeffris, of one of the 
oldest families of Chester county, by whom 
he had ten children, of whom nine were 
reared to maturity: Peter, deceased, was a 
druggist, and studied pharmacy under Dr. 
Witheral, of Philadelphia; his widow and 
two children survive him ; Anna Eliza, de- 
ceased, the wife of Truman Wallace, of 
Lancaster county, son of the Rev. John 
Wallace, who had charge of the old Pequea 
church, of Lancaster county, for over fifty 
years; Jeffris, deceased, buried at Yreka, 
Cal., was a druggist; William, deceased, was 
a shoemaker by trade, engaged in steam- 
boating on the Tombigbee river in Ala- 
bama, some years, and died in Lancaster 
county, Pa.; John, deceased, shoemaker, 
and also a druggist, is survived by four 
children ; Matilda, wife of Capt. Thomas 
Marshall, Mobile, Ala., who died in 1882, 
his wife and four children surviving him; 
Charles H. ; Caroline P., wife of Al. A. 
Moore, Montrose, Ala., has two children 
living; Edwin L., married Miss Jaquilt, of 
Chester county, was drowned in 1857, leav- 
ing a widow and one daughter; Thomas, 
died in infancy. 

Charles H. received his education in the 
public schools of Chester count} 7 , and at the 
age of sixteen years began an apprentice- 
ship at the builder's trade with John Agin, 
with whom he afterwards worked at Har- 
land and Hollingsworth, Del., until 1855, 
when he located at Parkesburg, Chester 
county, where he was employed by the State 
Railroad Company as machinist, until 1860, 
with the exception of three years spent in 
the service of the New York and Erie rail- 
road. He then was engaged for a short 
time with the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 



pany at Harrisburg; in 1861 enlisted in 
the army for three months, and afterwards 
enlisted for nine months in company A, One 
Hundred and Twenty-seventh regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, in which he 
served as first duty sergeant, at which time 
he organized company F, of the Twentieth 
Pennsylvania cavalry, and was made cap- 
tain of the company, but resigned in favor 
of Capt. V. B. Hummell, under whom he 
served as first lieutenant until the expira- 
tion of his term of enlistment. He was 
then commissioned as first lieutenant of com- 
pany E, Twelfth Pennsylvania regulars, and 
served till the close of the war, having 
been brevetted captain. Mr. Babb came to 
Steelton, in February, 1867, and was in the 
employment of the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company as machinist, until 1884, during 
which time he had charge of the roll turn- 
ing for fifteen j'ears. Since the last named 
date he has been engaged in real estate and 
insurance business. He has served as jus- 
tice of the peace and notary public for a 
number of years. Mr. Babb is a member 
of Dauphin Lodge, No. 160, and Dauphin 
Encampment, No. 10, I. 0. O. F., and is 
also past commander of Post No. 58, 
G. A. R., of Harrisburg. In 1855 he was 
married to Miss Louisa J. Irwin, daughter 
of George Irwin, one of the early settlers of 
Chester county, by whom he has had five 
children, the only survivor of whom is Hay 
Jeffris, married to Miss Loven, of Lancaster 
county. His deceased children are : Charles 
I, Edwin F., Cora, and one child who died 
in infancy. 



Boyer, Jacob, Enhaut, Pa., was born in 
Dauphin county, Pa., August 14, 1814; son 
of John Boyer. The father was the first of 
the Boyer family to settle in Dauphin county. 
He came to the county about 1800, and pur- 
chased a small farm near Chambers Hill, 
which he cultivated in connection with 
working at his trade of stone mason. He 
married a Miss Whitman, by whom he had 
nine children : Henry, John, Benjamin, 
Jacob, George, Martin, Samuel, Rebecca, and 
Catherine, all of whom are deceased, except- 
ing Jacob. The latter attended the subscrip- 
tion schools of the county, and engaged in 
farming, and later worked a stone quarry. 
In 1853 he purchased the Abraham farm, on 
which he has since had his residence, and is 
one of the oldest residents of what is now 
known as Enhaut. In 1843 he married Miss 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1035 



Catherine Beinhower, daughter of Peter 
Beinhower, of Dauphin county, by whom he 
has two children living: J. C, born October 
7, 1856, was educated in the public schools, 
is a farmer by occupation, and has charge 
of his father's farm ; he is not married ; and 
Emeline, wife of M. N. Suavely, of Enhaut. 
Mr. Boyer has been one of the most prom- 
inent citizens of Swatara township, and is 
one of the oldest residents. He takes an 
active interest in all church work. 



Bowers, Jacob, was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa., February 25, 1850; son of 
George Bowers. The father was born in 
Alleckendorf, France, in 1810, and was a 
tinner by trade. In 1834 he came to this 
country, and after remaining in Baltimore, 
Md., until 1845, settled in Cumberland 
county, and was engaged in farming until 
his death, in 1895. He was married, first, in 
his native country, August 28, 1831, to Miss 
Catherine Jacob, who died in 1862. He mar- 
ried for his second wife, Miss Kruger,_by 
whom he reared five children : Catherine, 
deceased ; Mary, widow of William Shaw ; 
George W., living in Washington State ; John 
Henry, living in Cumberland county, and 
Jacob. His second wife survives him. 

Jacob received his education in the com- 
mon schools of Cumberland county. When 
a young man he was engaged in farming, 
and at the age of eighteen years he learned 
the trade of carpenter and builder. In 1866 
he went to Baltimore and worked under the 
instruction of his father, serving as an ap- 
prentice two years, and in this way complet- 
ing his mastery of the business, after which 
he returned to Fairview, Cumberland county, 
where he remained until his marriage. He 
worked at his trade as a journeyman until 
1879, when he engaged in contracting on his 
own account. In 1875 he moved from Cum- 
berland county to Steelton, and in 1884 lie 
built the house in which he now lives, on 
Meyers street. He built the North Side 
school house and the Maj. L. S. Bent school 
■ house. He also worked at Steelton some 
years as a journeyman. Mr. Bowers is a 
member of the Republican party, in which 
he takes an active part, having served as 
councilman for six years, during half of 
which period he was the president of that 
body. In 1873 he was married to Miss 
Emma L. Kutz, daughter of John Kutz, 



of Shiremanstown, Cumberland county, by 
whom he has two children : Clara M. and 
George H., both living at home. 

Beinhower, Adam, was born in Derry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., August 21, 
1828; son of Peter B. Beinhower. The 
father was born in Dauphin county about 
1791, and was a farmer by occupation. He 
married Miss Smith, by whom he had nine 
children : Sallie, wife of John Hocker ; Jacob 
and Elizabeth, both deceased ; John, of 
Swatara township ; Catherine and Susan, 
both deceased ; Peter, of Ohio ; Adam, and 
Isaac, of Oberlin, Pa. Adam acquired his 
education in the common schools of this 
period and worked on the farm until he was 
eighteen years of age, when he became an 
apprentice at the wheelright trade, with C. 
A. Stover, at Middletown, in which he served 
three years. He then worked one year at 
his trade as a journeyman and located at 
Hockersville, when he followed his occupa- 
tion for twenty-two years. In 1876 he came 
to Steelton, where he has since made his 
home. He worked for five years at his 
trade in Steelton and since 1884 has been 
engaged in the undertaking business. On 
August 9, 1862, he enlisted in company C, 
One Hundred and Twenty-seventh Regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania volunteers, under Col- 
onel Jennings, in which he served until 
his discharge in 1863, having participated 
in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chan- 
cellorsville. In 1876 he was married to 
Miss Catherine Gingerich, of Derry town- 
ship, to whom was born one child, William 
Hoyt, died at the age of three years. Mr. 
Beinhower is an active member of the 
United Brethren church. 



Balsbaugh, George, Oberlin, Pa,, was 
born in Derry township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., in December, 1817 ; son of John Bals- 
baugh. The Balsbaughs are one of the old- 
est families of the county, Valentine, the 
grandfather of George, was the son of a Mr. 
Balsbaugh, who came from Germany, and 
was one of the very early settlers of the 
county. He died in Dauphin county, and 
is buried at South Hanover, where his son 
Valentine is also buried. John Balsbaugh, 
the father of George, and the son of Valen- 
tine, was born November 4, 1788, and died 
January 18, 1879. He was married, March 
22, 1814, to Mary Seigler, born October 18, 



1036 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



1794, and died May 28,1857. They had 
nine children : George; Valentine and John, 
both deceased ; Henry ; Solomon ; Mary, 
wife of Cornelius Shope; Elizabeth, wife of 
John Snyder ; Anna, unmarried, and Elijah, 
deceased. John Balsbaugh was a farmer by 
occupation and a prominent man in his 
time. George Balsbaugh attended the public 
schools of the county, and learned the trade 
of carpenter, which he followed a number of 
years. He was also engaged in farming up 
to 1891, when he removed to Oberlin, where 
he has since lived a retired life. While in 
Lower Swatara township he served in the of- 
fices of township assessor and school director. 
In 1858 he was married to Miss Moyer, of 
Dauphin count}', by whom he has three chil- 
dren: George W., with the Adams Express 
Company, at Harrisburg ; Ephraitn, living 
in Southern California since 1889, is mar- 
ried ; Mary A., wife of E. Stauffer, of High- 
spire. Mr. Balsbaugh is the oldest one of the 
family now living. 



ving L., born July 18, 1872, is draughtsman 
for the Lincoln Iron Works, Rutland, Vt., 
where he has been since February, 1895. 



Beinhower, J. S., Oberlin, Pa., was born 
in Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa.; son 
of Peter Beinhower. The father was a son 
of Peter Beinhower, whose father came from 
Germany at a very early day and settled in 
Dauphin county, where he was employed 
in farming and in teaming to and from 
Philadelphia. The father married Mary 
A. Smith, daughter of John Smith, of 
Dauphin county, hy whom he had nine chil- 
dren : Jacob, deceased; John; Peter, living 
in Ohio ; Adam, Steelton ; J. S.; Sarah, widow 
of John Hocker; Elizabeth, deceased; Cathe- 
rine, and Susan, both deceased. J. S. Bein- 
hower was educated in the common schools 
of Swatara township, and is one of the oldest 
residents of Oberlin. He learned the trade 
of carpenter, and was engaged in contracting 
and building up to 1892. Since 1859 he has 
also been engaged in cabinet making and 
undertaking. In the spring of 1860 he moved 
to the present site of Oberlin, where he has 
since made his home. In his political views 
Mr. Beinhower is a Republican, and has 
served as tax collector of Swatara township 
for several years. In 1859 he was married 
to Miss Hassler, daughter of Samuel and Su- 
sanna (Mumma) Hassler, of Dauphin county, 
both deceased. Their children are: Anna 
May, born May, 1860, died September 6, 
1878 ; Frances H., wife of Dr. D. W. Shaff- 
ner, of Enhaut, born February 1, 1862 ; Ir- 



Baskin, Oliver P., superintendent of the 
Steelton Light, Heat and Power Company, 
was born in Perry county, Pa., July 24, 
1856 ; son of John and Mary (Shoy). His 
father was born in Schuylkill county, Pa., 
son of John, who was born in Scotland, emi- 
grated to this country, and settled in Schuyl- 
kill county, where he followed the occupa- 
tion of plasterer. He was drafted for mili- 
tary service during the war, but was retired 
by reason of occupying a civil office at the 
time. His death occurred April 26, 1895, 
his wife having died in 1868. She was a 
daughter of Mr. Shoy, and was born on the 
ocean during the voyage to this country 
from Ireland. The)' had thirteen children, 
of whom these lived to maturity : Mary, Mrs. 
Jacob Eisenhart, of Middletown, Pa.; Julia, 
Mrs. Adam Boyer, of West Fairview, Cum- 
berland county, Pa.; Hannah, Mrs. W. H. 
Hempley, Bainbridge, Pa.; and Oliver P. 

Oliver was reared in Perry county, and 
received his education in the township 
schools, and by self-study gained a practical 
knowledge of electricity. He was engaged 
in the grocery business in Philadelphia for 
twelve years with a wholesale house, and for 
four years was a commercial traveler. In 
1890 he came to Steelton, and worked for 
the Electric Company, the present plant of 
which company was built by him, and he 
has since acted as the superintendent of 
the company. Mr. Baskin is a member 
of the Improved Order of Red Men, and 
also of the Junior Order of the United 
American Mechanics. In political views he 
is a Democrat. In Perry county he served 
on the school board, and in Steelton as mem- 
ber of the council and judge of elections. 
Mr. Baskin was married, in 1882, to Miss 
Catherine Underwood, daughter of George 
Underwood, of Schuylkill county. They 
have no children. 



Dickinson, Bayard T., physician, was 
born at Gap, Lancaster county, Pa., June 25, 
1854 ; son of Henry and Anna (Baldwin) 
Dickinson, of Lancaster and Chester coun- 
ties, respectively. He was educated in the 
common and select schools of his locality, 
and was for a time engaged in mercantile 
business. He studied medicine, and was 
graduated from the medical department of 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1037 



the University of Pennsylvania, on March 
10, 1876, after which he began the practice 
of medicine. In 1879 he removed to Steel- 
ton, where he has since been engaged in the 
practice of his profession. Dr. Dickinson is 
a member of the Dauphin County Medical 
Society, and also of the Pennsylvania State 
Medical Society. In his political views he is 
a Republican, and is active in party inter- 
ests. In 1883 he was elected member of the 
borough council, and was made chairman 
of the body ; in 1887-89 was a member 
of the State Legislature, and served promi- 
nently in the House of Representatives. The 
Doctor was married, in 1893, to Miss Clara 
Hanshue, daughter of Samuel Hanshue, of 
Steelton. Their children are : Alma, Sarah, 
and Annie. 

Dr. Dickinson was born and reared in the 
faith of the Friends. His wife and family 
are members of the Lutheran church. 



Earnest, Franklin C, Steelton, was born 
in Hummelstown, Dauphin county, Pa., Au- 
gust 26, 1834; son of Obed Earnest. David 
Earnest, the grandfather, was a native of 
Dauphin county, and one of the earliest 
settlers of the county. He was a farmer by 
occupation and reared a large family. Obed 
Earnest, the father, was born in Dauphin 
county in 1807, and received his education 
in the schools of that time. He was en- 
gaged in farming until he was twenty-one 
years of age, when he learned the trade of 
shoemaker, which lie followed until his 
death in November, 1857. In his political 
views he was a Republican, and was an 
active member of the Lutheran church. He 
married Miss Cobaugh, by whom he had ten 
children, of whom five are living: Dr. John 
A., pastor of the Lutheran church of Mifflin- 
burg, married Miss McCreary, who died in 
1895; Richard, of Hummelstown, married 
Miss Flasher, of that place ; Margaret, widow 
of Joseph Hill, of Jersey Shore, Lycoming 
county ; Charles, living with his sister, Mrs. 
Joseph Hill ; Franklin C. The deceased 
children are: David, Obed, Alice, Mary O, 
and Amanda, wife of Henry Parker, of 
Jersey Shore. 

Franklin C. attended the schools of Hum- 
melstown, and when a young man learned 
the shoemaker's trade with his father. He 
was engaged in the shoe trade for over two 
years, and in 1873 removed his business to 
Steelton and conducted it there until 1884, 
since which time he has worked at his trade. 



In his political views he is a Republican, 
and has served in important offices as school 
director and as member of the borough 
council three years, and also as justice of 
the peace, resigned the latter office in 1875, 
on account of its interruption of other busi- 
ness. In 1863 he married Miss Jennie E., 
daughter of Captain McCreary, of Gettys- 
burg, by whom he has eight children : John, 
living at Steelton, married Miss Battey; and 
they have two children ; Grace, living at 
home; Jennie, wife of Charles E. Frasier, of 
Carlisle, and they have two children ; May, 
living at home ; Frank, at home, chemist; 
Ralph, living at home, machinist; Luther, 
at home ; Robert, at home. Mr. Earnest 
and his family are connected with the St. 
John's Lutheran church, of which he is an 
elder. 



Eshenower, Jacob J., farmer, Oberlin, Pa., 
was born in Dauphin county, October 12, 
1839, and is a son of Jacob and Catharine 
(Bishoj)) Eshenower. The paternal grand- 
father, Christian, was a farmer and wagon 
maker. He was married, twice, the first 
time to Miss Shutt, by whom he had the 
following children : Catharine, John, Chris- 
tian, Jacob, Andrew, Leonard, and Frederick. 
The maternal grandfather, Peter Bishop, 
was engaged in farming all his life and was 
married to Miss Catharine Shaffer. Their chil- 
dren are: John, Sallie, Peter, Catherine, and 
William. The father was born in Dauphin 
county, February 8, 1798, and while young 
learned the trade of blacksmith, which he 
followed for a few years and then engaged 
in farming. He married, first, Miss Ulrich, 
daughter of Michael Ulrich, by whom he 
had two children : John and Elizabeth. 

He married, secondly, Miss Catherine 
Bishop, daughter of Peter and Catharine 
(Shaffer) Bishop. Their children are : Mary, 
Jacob J., and Catherine A. He filled the office 
of supervisor of Swatara township for some 
years and died June 18, 1869, and his wife 
in May, 1880. Both were members of the 
Lutheran church. 

Jacob J. received his education in the 
public schools of Swatara township and then 
assisted his father on the farm until he was 
twenty years of age. During 1867 and 1868 
he conducted the '"Black Swan" Hotel, situ- 
ated along the Reading pike, west of Hum- 
melstown. With this exception Mr. Eshe- 
nower has farmed continuously during his 
lifetime. He married, first, Miss Susan H. 



1038 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Newcomer, November 3, 1859, by whom he 
had one daughter, Susan. His wife was 
born December, 1841, and died in 1861. He 
married, secondly, Miss Susina A. Brown, 
daughter of Henry and Rebecca (West) 
Brown. They have six children, all of 
whom are living : Edward, married to Miss 
Kate Reed, daughter of John and Sophia 
Reed ; Jacob, married to Miss Kate Kramer; 
Carrie, Elenora, Grace V., and Martin W. In 
politics Mr. Eshenovver is a Republican and 
has been judge of the election board and also 
member of the detective association. He is 
connected with the Lutheran church. Mrs. 
Susina Eshenower was born December 13, 
1843, in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county. Her parents were engaged in farm- 
ing and were both natives of Berks county. 
Her father married Miss Rebecca West, 
daughter of Jacob and Mary (Rambo) West. 
Their children are : John W., Mary, Susina, 
Elizabeth, deceased, and Uriah H., deceased. 



Frantz, Michael A., farmer, was born in 
Dauphin county, January 15, 1830, and is 
the son of Michael and Elizabeth Frantz. 
The paternal grandfather was engaged in 
farming and married a native of Lancaster 
county, by whom he had four children : 
Michael, John, Elizabeth, and Suavely. The 
father was born in Dauphin county in 1789, 
and was married twice, first to Miss Elizabeth 
Maghdie, by whom he had two children, 
Mary and Elizabeth ; and secondly, to Miss 
Elizabeth Walters, by whom he had a family 
of nine children, eight of whom survive. 
The children are: Samuel, Anna, Michael A., 
Fannie, Jacob, John, Maggie, Christian, and 
Sarah, deceased. He held several township 
offices and was connected with the Old 
Bridge at Harrisburg, and also with the con- 
struction of the turnpike from Harrisburg 
to Middletown. He and his wife were mem- 
bers of the United Brethren church, and he 
died June 5, 1865. 

Michael A. received his education in the 
public schools of Swatara township. After 
leaving school he engaged in farming with 
his father, and since the age of twenty-three 
has lived on the old homestead. Mr. Frantz 
has also spent some time in the store and in 
real estate business. He was married, Janu- 
ary 15, 1861, to Miss Barbara A., daughter of 
Rev. David and Susan (Gall) Rush. They 
have one daughter who resides at home. In 
politics he is a Republican and has served as as- 



sessor, and was school director for twenty years- 
The family adhere to the Methodist church. 
Mrs. Frantz was born in Lancaster county, 
October 20, 1838. Her father, who was a 
minister of the Gospel for forty years, was 
born May 17, 1805, and married September 
2, 1829, Miss Susan Gall, daughter of Martin 
and Elizabeth (Graff) Gall, who was born 
April 16, 1805. Their children are : David, 
Barbara, John, Harry, Magdaline, deceased, 
Martin, deceased, John, deceased, and Elias 
and Isaac, also both deceased. 



Fencil, Nathaniel S., dealer in stoves 
and tinware, was born in York Haven, York 
county, Pa., October 15, 1847 ; son of the 
late George W. and Mary E. (Roe) Fencil. 
The grandfather Fencil was a native of Ger- 
many, and came to America in 1800, locating 
in York Haven, Pa., where for many years 
he worked as a flour miller. He was a soldier 
in the war of 1812. The father was born at 
York Haven in 1804, where he was a mer- 
chant for many years. He removed to Dau- 
phin county, where he died April 17, 1881. 
The mother was a native of Sussex county, 
N. J., and died in 1895. They had ten chil- 
dren, seven of whom are living: Francis 
R.; NathanieLS.; Rosa Belle, wife of John 
Guist white ; Georgian a, wife of J. M. Curry ; 
Mary, wife of F. B. Wickersham ; William, 
and George W. The father served as post- 
master at York Haven many years. 

Nathaniel S. was reared and educated in 
the public schools of his native place. He 
was busily employed in his boyhood on the 
farm and in the cigar shop, and hence re- 
ceived only a limited education. At the age 
of seventeen he served an apprenticeship at 
the tinners' trade at Middletown, upon the 
completion of which he removed to Titus- 
ville, where he worked as a journeyman for 
two years. In 1869 he returned to Middle- 
town, and was employed in business for 
himself until the spring of 1873, when he 
removed to Steelton, where he has since been 
continuously in business, being now one of 
the oldest established and leading business 
men of the place. Mr. Fencil was married, 
at Middletown, Pa., November 7, 1872, to 
Anna C. Bippers, daughter of John and 
Catherine Bippers, of Middletown, both de- 
ceased. To them have been born seven chil- 
dren, two of whom died in infancy, and the 
survivors are : Clarence V., Jennie 0., Mabel 
B., Mary, and Ellen. Mr. Fencil is a mem- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1039 



ber of the Knights of the Golden Eagle. In 
political views he is a Republican. The 
family attend the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



Grove, John W., boss roller, Pennsylvania 
Steel Works, was born in Swatara township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 29, 1849 ; son 
of Samuel and Elizabeth (Hall) Grove. The 
father was of German descent, born in Leb- 
anon county, Pa., son of Henry. He moved 
from Lebanon to Dauphin county, when he 
was sixteen years of age, and engaged in 
farming, but is now residing in Perry county. 
He served in the office of school director. 
His membership is in the Methodist Episco- 
pal church. Nine children were born to 
him, of whom six are living: Catherine E., 
Mrs. J. 0. Snoddy, Penbrook ; John W.; 
Jacob F., Steelton ; Susanna A., Mrs. Robert 
E. Lusk, of Harrisburg ; Sarah, Mrs. John 
Leopold, Perry county ; Emma, Mrs. Will- 
iam Stark, of Perry county. The brothers 
are twins. 

John W. was reared in Swatara township 
and when eighteen years old removed to In- 
diana and was there engaged in wagon mak- 
ing for a time, after which he was for two 
years employed in the Harrisburg Car 
Works. In 1871 he came to Steelton and 
entered the employment of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Works, since which date he has con- 
tinued in the employment of that company, 
and since 1882 has been in his present posi- 
tion. He enlisted in the Governor's Troop, 
of Harrisburg. Mr. Grove was married, in 
1869, to Miss Amanda Nebenger, daugh- 
ter of William Nebenger, of York county. 
They have no children. In politics he 
is a Republican and has served in the 
school board one term and as tax collector 
three years. He is enrolled in the member- 
ship of the Methodist Episcopal church, in 
which he holds the office of steward, and 
also officiates as chorister, and is interested 
in all branches of the work of the church. 



Grunden, Martin H, was born in Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 3, 1846 ; son of 
Charles Grunden. He attended the public 
schools until he was fourteen years of age, 
when he entered the store of H. Felix, at 
Harrisburg, as a clerk, where he remained 
two years. In February, 1863, he enlisted 
in company E, Twelfth Pennsylvania cav- 
alry, under Capt. D. A. Irwin, an ex-member 
of the Legislature, and now commander of 



the Soldiers' Home, at Washington, D. C, 
and served until his discharge, July 20, 
1865. He was then in the employment of 
the Northern Central railroad for one year, 
after which he was engaged in the dairy 
business for two years. He then entered the 
service of the Pennsylvania Steel Company, 
at Steelton, where he was employed for four- 
teen years. In 1894 he engaged in the coal 
business, in which he has since continued. 
In 1873 Mr. Grunden was married to Miss 
Alice, daughter of Jacob Hale, of Steelton, 
by whom he has three children : Rina, 
Alva, and Hale, who died February 11, 1894, 
aged twenty years. 



Hess, Christian, Oberlin, Pa., was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa., in 1820; son of 
Abraham Hess. Samuel Hess, the grand- 
father, was a native of Germany, and came 
to Lancaster county with his three brothers 
at a very early day. He was a farmer, and 
lived and died on the farm where his son, 
Abraham Hess, died. Abraham Hess, the 
father, was born in Lancaster county, where 
he was engaged in farming, and died in 
August, 1823. He married Catherine Ep- 
pler, daughter of Christian Eppler, by 
whom he had three children : Nancy, de- 
ceased, Christian, and Samuel, deceased. 
His widow married John Kingport, by 
whom she had five children : David, de- 
ceased, Daniel, Lydia, Fannie, deceased, 
and Abraham, living at Harrisburg. The 
mother died in the fall of 1869, aged seven- 
ty-three years. 

Christian, at the age of five years, re- 
moved with his parents to Lebanon county, 
where he attended the public schools until 
he was seventeen years of age, when he re- 
moved to Dauphin count}' and worked on 
the farm, and subsequently learned the 
fuller's trade. He was afterwards engaged 
in milling grain for three years, after which 
he took up farming, which has been his 
occupation up to the present time. Mr. 
Hess laid out the borough of Oberlin, of 
which he has been a resident for forty years, 
and has built the greater portion of the 
town. He was one of the organizers of the 
Citizens' Passenger Railway Company. In 
political views Mr. Hess is independent, 
but is always active in public business. He 
is still interested and active in farming, and 
is a leading man in agricultural affairs. He 
was married, in 1843, to Miss Eshnauer, 
born in November, 1825 ; daughter of John 



1040 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Eshnauer, of Dauphin county, by whom he 
has eight children : Malinda, John H., and 
Samuel, all of whom are deceased ; Chris- 
tian, married Miss Carrie Bope, of Harris- 
burg, living at Mount Clair, Montgomery 
county, formerly a resident of Steelton; 
Catherine and Abraham, both deceased; 
Elizabeth, wife of William Sull, of Oberlin; 
and Mary, wife of Thomas Puffer, of Cum- 
berland county. John Eshnauer, father of 
Mrs. Hess, was"a native of Dauphin county; 
by occupation a farmer and weaver. He 
married, first, Elizabeth Fishburn, of Derry 
township, by whom he had four children: 
Catherine ; John and Jacob, both deceased, 
and Elizabeth, wife of Henry Kay lor. He 
married, secondly, Susanna Pratz, by whom 
he has one child, Joseph, of Grantville, Pa. 

Hooker, George, farmer, was born Feb- 
ruary 9, 1848, on the old homestead, in Swa- 
tara township, and is a son of George and 
Catherine (Cocklin) Hocker. The Hocker 
and Cocklin families were both of German 
descent. The paternal grandfather, Adam, 
was a native of Dauphin county, and was a 
farmer by occupation. He had a family of 
seven children, all of whom are deceased. 
The maternal grandfather was also a farmer, 
and reared a family of seven children, none 
of whom are now living. The father was 
born in Dauphin county, January 21, 1794, 
received his education in the schools of 
Hummelstown, learned the trade of tailor, 
and subsequently engaged in the hotel busi- 
ness in Swatara township. Later he began 
farming on the old homestead, where George 
was born. He was married, first, to Miss 
Magdalen Landis, by whom he had two 
children, both deceased : Eugene and Levi. 
His wife died in 1824. He married, secondly, 
Catherine Cocklin, daughter of Jacob and 
Mary (Hoover) Cocklin, November 5, 1835. 
Their children are : Margaret, George, and 
David, deceased. Most of his life he was en- 
gaged in farming, until 1858, when he re- 
tired. He died November 6, 1878, and his 
wife died in November, 1881. Served as tax 
collector and school director, and was also a 
member of the Lutheran church. 

George was educated in the public schools 
of Swatara township, and then began farm- 
ing with his father, and until he was twen- 
ty-five years of age continued to do so. At 
that time he engaged in farming for himself. 
He was married, December 9, 1879, to Miss 
Edith A. Zimmermazi, daughter of Henry 



and Catherine (Hawk) Zimmerman. Their 
children are: Catherine, Florence, Walter, 
and George. After farming for fifteen years 
Mr. Hocker retired for eight years, when he 
again returned to the farm. He is connected 
in church fellowship with the Lutheran de- 
nomination. Mrs. Hocker was born in 1858, 
and her parents were both natives of Dau- 
phin county. Their children are: Solomon, 
Morris, Ellen, Ada, Samuel, Alice, Reah, 
B. L., deceased, and Katie, deceased. Her 
father died in May, 1882, and her mother 
still lives at Steelton, enjoying good health. 



Hess, John, Steelton, was born in Cum- 
berland county, Pa., September 24, 1857 ; 
son of George Hess. He acquired his edu- 
cation in the common schools of his native 
county and when a young man engaged in 
floating lumber and sand on contract work, 
which he followed until 1880. From 1873- 
74 he and his brother were engaged in truck 
farming, cultivating the Walmer Island, 
which he now owns. In the spring of 1880 
he removed from Cumberland county to 
Steelton, and purchased the lot of ground at 
the corner of Front and Couestoga streets, 
where he has since carried on a coal and 
sand business, furnishing also all kinds of 
plasterer's materials and sand taken from the 
snag river beds. In his political views he 
is a Republican and takes an active part in 
movements of his party. In 1887-88 he 
served as member of the borough council of 
Steelton. Mr. Hess is a stockholder and di- 
rector and also one of the three executive 
committeemen of the Steelton Light, Heat 
and Power Company, and is also a stock- 
holder in the Harrisburg Trust Company. 
He is connected with several of the secret 
organizations and fraternities. In 1880 Mr. 
Hess was married to Miss Sarah Ames, of 
Cumberland county, by whom he has five 
children, three of whom are living: Bertha 
May, born in 1882; Sylvia Matilda, born in 
1885; Linnie, born in 1892. David died at 
the age of fifteen months, and George died 
at the same age. 



Hoffer, Jacob, Steelton, was born in 
Lebanon county, Pa., in September, 1824 ; 
son of John Hoffer. The parents had eight 
children, two of whom are living : Catherine, 
widow of William Williams, of Harrisburg, 
and Jacob. Their deceased children are : 
Samuel, Sarah, Mary, Elizabeth, John, and 
Joseph. The father was one of the first 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1041 



settlers on what is now Steelton. Jacob 
came with his father to Dauphin county, 
and received his education in the common 
schools of that county, and subsequently 
engaged in farming. He lived in Hanover 
township for many years and in Hummels- 
town and near Paxtang for some years. In 
1846 he engaged in farming on the land 
now occupied by the Pennsylvania Steel 
Company, where he lived for a number of 
years. In 1862 he was drafted for service 
in the army and was attached to company 
C, One Hundred and Seventy-seventh 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, under 
Captain John F. Peck. In 1863, at the end 
of his nine months' service, he was dis- 
charged and returned to his home. In the 
following spring he moved to the farm 
owned by Henry Kelker, which he con- 
ducted for six years. In 1870 he moved to 
what is now known as Steelton and built 
the house in which he has since resided. 
The same year he entered the employment 
of the Pennsylvania Steel Company, in 
which he remained for ten years and has 
since lived retired from active work on ac- 
count of old age and ill health. Mr. Hof- 
fer was married, in 1859, to Miss Traver, 
daughter of David and Sarah Traver, of 
York county. They have no children. 
David Traver, father of Mrs. Hoffer, died in 
York county in 1853, aged fifty-nine years. 
His wife was born in 1803 and died in 1873. 



Hoerner, Albert, proprietor of the Bes- 
semer House, Steelton, was born in South 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
July 7, 1825 ; son of John and Magdalena 
(Ehersole) Hoerner. The parents were both 
bom in South Hanover. The grandfather 
Hoerner was born in Prussia, April 19, 
1743, and in company with four other mem- 
bers of the family came to America about 
1780, settling first near Hummelstown, and 
subsequently removing to South Hanover, 
where he spent the remainder of his life, 
dying there October 10, 1821. He married 
Barbara Klick, who was born October 20, 1751, 
and died March 18, 1829. They had twelve 
children. John, the father, was born June 
3, 1783. He was engaged in farming. He 
married Magdalena Ebersole, born October 
20, 1788. The father was a major under 
General Forster in the war of 1812. 

Albert was reared on the farm, educated 
in the public schools and worked with his 
father until he was twenty-one years of 



age. He then spent one year at Annville, 
Lebanon county, learning milling, after 
which he returned to Dauphin county, and 
was engaged in this business for four years 
at Union Deposit and for three years at 
Fidler's Elbow. From 1852 to 1859 he con- 
ducted a hotel at Hummelstown, after which 
he was for three years engaged in mercantile 
business at Union Deposit. In 1862 he en- 
gaged in farming, at which he continued 
until April 14, 1882, when he opened the 
Bessemer House at Steelton. In 1863 he 
enrolled in the Thirty-sixth Penusjdvania 
militia, and served sixty days. In Febru- 
ary, 1865, he enlisted in" company I, Eighty- 
seventh Pennsylvania volunteers, and served 
until the close of the war. Mr. Hoerner was 
married, in South Hanover, August 22,1852, 
to Susan R. Ramsey, daughter of David and 
Catherine Ramsey, of South Hanover. They 
had nine children, of whom five are living : 
Julia A., Robert K., Edward K., Susan K., 
and Katie K. In political views Mr. 
Hoerner is a Republican. The family at- 
tend the Lutheran church. 



Keller, Isaac B., superintendent of the 
Capital Shirt Company, Steelton, was born 
in Rockland township, Berks county, Pa., 
April 1, 1850 ; son of George and Louisa 
(Basl) Keller, both deceased. The parents 
were both natives of Berks county, where 
they spent their lives. The father was a 
weaver by trade, but for the greater part of 
his life was occupied in farming. He died 
in 1876, and his wife died in 1892. They 
had fourteen children, of whom eight are 
living: Augustus; Zachariah ; Obediah; Isaac 
B.; Mary, wife of Abraham Beaver ; Sarah, 
wife of Amos Barto ; Louisa, wife of Charles 
Dry ; and Josephine, wife of D. E. Long. 
Isaac B. was reared on the homestead farm, 
and attended the district schools of his native 
township until he was eleven years of age, 
when he went to Reading, Pa., and learned 
the millinery, cloak, and dressmaking trade, 
at which he then worked for five years, and 
for the next five or six years he was a clerk 
in a dry goods house at Breinigsville, Lehigh 
county, after which he engaged in the manu- 
facture of shirts, in which he has been em- 
ployed since that time. He subsequently 
returned to Reading, and shortly afterwards 
returned to Lebanon, where, in 1886, he en- 
gaged in the manufacture of shirts with 
Simon C. Peters. In 1888 the Capital Shirt 
Company was organized, in which Mr. 



1042 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Keller took a large amount of stock, and 
was appointed the superintendent of the 
company. He was married, in Breinigsville, 
June 11, 1871, to Annie A. Clause, daughter 
of George Clause. They have nine children, 
of whom two died in infancy, and the sur- 
vivors are: Minnie Laura, wife of A. W. 
Kim, of Steelton; Daisy Louisa, Martin Lu- 
ther. Eva Victoria, Edna Bella, Henry 
Paul, and Isaac Lee. Mr. Keller is a mem- 
ber of Steelton Council, No. 933, R. A. In 
his political views he is a Democrat. The 
family are members of St. John's Lutheran 
church, of Steelton. 



Keister, William A., merchant, Steelton, 
was born in York county, Pa., November 23, 
1848; son of Samuel Keister. The father 
was born in 1809, son of Adam Keister, a 
native of Germany, and one of the pioneers 
of York county. He married Margaret 
Wagner; both lived to old age. The father 
was a tanner by trade and followed that oc- 
cupation until 1865, when he went West 
and engaged in the lumber business. He mar- 
ried Miss Anna Wickersham, born in March, 
1810, daughter of John Wickersham, of York 
county, by whom he had fourteen children, 
of whom thirteen are living: Matilda, Re- 
becca, Margaret, Lydia Ann, Louisa, Clinton, 
Calvin, Mahala and Malinda, twins ; Will- 
iam A. and Martha Jane, twins ; Maurice and 
Elcinda, twins, the latter deceased, and Eu- 
seubius. The father died in 1882 aged sev- 
enty-three years. William A. received his 
education in the schools of York county, 
and learned the trade of shoemaker, which 
he followed for several years. From 1872 to 
1873 he was clerk in the store of Bauchman 
Sons & Co., and served in the same capacity 
with H. Gregory until 1877. For the suc- 
ceeding three years he was traveling sales- 
man for A. R. McCowe & Co. In 1881 he 
opened business in New Cumberland, under 
the firm name of Kauffman & Keister and 
continued there until 1882, when he came 
to Steelton, where he has since continued to 
conduct a general mercantile business. Mr. 
Keister was married, in 1882, to Miss Prowell, 
daughter of James W. Prowell, of York 
county, to whom has been born one child : 
Walter, born in 1883. 



was a hotel keeper. He kept the hotel at 
Buck's Lock while the Pennsylvania canal 
was being built, and also kept the Farmers' 
Hotel at Highspire, where he died in 1861. 
He married Susan Detweiler, who died in 
1886. They reared six children, of whom 
four are living: J. J. Lehman, at Highspire; 
C. Lehman, deceased, whose widow and four 
children survive him ; W. C, Middletown ; 
Frank, deceased, whose widow and two sons 
survive him ; Simon G, and D. L., living at 
Urbana, Ohio. 

Simon C. attended the common schools of 
his neighborhood, and when a young man 
was a clerk in the store of his brother, J. J. 
Lehman, at Highspire, for one year, after 
which he was employed in the steel mills at 
Steelton for a number of years. In 1885 he 
established a business at Highspire, which 
he conducted until 1887, when he removed 
to Steelton and purchased the property in 
which he now resides, and engaged in the 
confectionery business, which he has since 
carried on. In bis political views he is a 
Republican, and takes an active part in the 
interest of his party. In 1887 he was mar- 
ried to Miss Maggie J , daughter of Jacob 
Snavely, of Oberlin, Pa. 



Lehman, Simon C, confectioner, Steelton, 
was born in Dauphin county, Pa., December 
3, 1856; son of Daniel Lehman. The father 
was born in Lancaster count}', in 1821, and 



Jones, William McHenry, secretary and 
treasurer of the Steelton Planing Mill Com- 
pany, Steelton, Pa., was born April 12, 1844, 
in Northampton county ; son of Robert 
Evan and Caroline (Dietrick) Jones. Will- 
iam was reared in his native county until 
he was seventeen years of age. His educa- 
tion was received in the public schools and 
in Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pa. In 
1860 he moved to Union county, and in 1861 
enlisted in company E, Forty -seventh Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, and served three years. 
After the close of the war he took a com- 
mercial course in Eastman's Business Col- 
lege, Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and then clerked 
for Wallace, Smith & Co., Lewisburg, until 
1858. In 1878 he established a dry goods 
and notion bazaar in Lewisburg, and con- 
tinued until 1878 when he moved to Steelton, 
Dauphin county, where he conducted a real 
estate business for a time. About 1895 he 
became connected with the Steelton planing 
mill. He was married, in 1868, to Caroline 
Criswell, daughter of James Criswell, of 
Lewisburg. They nave three children : 
Katie, Edith C, and Criswell Jane. Mr. 
Jones is a stockholder in one of the banks 
and is connected with Sergt. S. W. Lascomb 




HENRY FARNUM. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1045 



Post, No. 351, G. A. R.; Royal Arcanum, 
regent and past regent ; State Capital 
Lodge, No. 70, I. 0. 0. F., Harrisburg. He 
is a Republican in politics and has been 
president of the city council, and also been 
on the school board. He is president of the 
board of trustees of the Methodist Episcopal 
church, of which he is a member. His father 
was a physician and practiced in Northamp- 
ton county, where he died. His brother 
Robert is attorney for the Eastern Transfer 
Company and has been a United States bank 
examiner. He is a Democrat and a leader 
of the party in his district. 

Meyers, John, Jr., Enhaut, Pa., was born 
in Dauphin county, Pa., September 7, 1842 ; 
son of John Meyers. The grandfather, Abra- 
ham Meyers, was the first of the family to 
settle in Dauphin county, he having removed 
at a very early day from Lancaster county 
to Harrisburg, where he died when John 
was nine years old. His wife died when 
John was three months old. John Meyers, 
the father, was born at Harrisburg in 1818, 
and having lost his parents by death, was 
reared by Abraham Weitzel, on the Cameron 
farm. He learned the trade of a miller, and 
was also engaged in farming. His first wife 
was Susan Miller, and they had six chil- 
dren : John, Harry, Thomas, Joseph, Mary, 
and Susan. For his second wife he married 
Catherine Wade, and they had three chil- 
dren : Amos, Katie, and Charles. 

John Meyers, Jr., attended the common 
schools of Dauphin county until his four- 
teenth year, after which he was employed by 
Martin Good, of Lower Swatara township, in 
the fulling mill for fourteen years, with the 
exception of one year spent in the army. 
On September 7, 1861, he enlisted in com- 
pany I, Ninety-third regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, under Colonel McCarty and Cap- 
tain Boynton, of Middletown, in which he 
served until May 30, when he was wounded 
at the battle of Fair Oaks, Va., and was con- 
fined to the hospital three months, after 
which' he was discharged. After leaving 
Mr. Good he entered the employment of the 
Pennsylvania Steel Company, in 1871, where 
he remained eight years, since which time 
he has been engaged in weaving carpets. 
Since 1S73 he has lived in Enhaut. He was 
married first, in 1865, to Miss Pathinore, by 
whom he reared three children: Solomon 
Goshen, died ; Elizabeth, wife of John Ober ; 
and John, living in Chicago. He was rnar- 
65 



ried, secondly, in 1879, to Miss Smith, daugh- 
ter of John Smith, of Union Deposit, by 
whom he had two children : Katie and 
Miles, both living at home. 



Mumma, Christ Nissley, of the firm of 
Keller & Mumma, Steelton, was born on the 
homestead farm near Highspire, Dauphin 
county, Pa., July 5, 1857 ; son of Isaac and 
Mary (Nissley) Mumma, both natives of 
Dauphin county. The father was born at 
Highspire, where he spent his life, and was 
engaged in farming. At the age of twenty- 
eight years he was elected commissioner of 
Dauphin county, and filled that important 
office with the utmost satisfaction to the 
citizens for two terms. For about twenty 
years he was associate judge of the county, 
and at the time of his death had been serv- 
ing as sheriff for twenty-six months. He 
was a charter member and director of the 
Hummelstown National Bank. He married 
Mary Nissley, a native of Hummelstown, 
who survives him. Their children are : 
Emma J.; Annie E.; Mary F, wife of Edgar 
C. Hummel, deputy sheriff, residing in 
Hummelstown; Christ N; Alice E.; Blanche 
B.; Ralph I., postal clerk, and Opal H. 

Christ N. was reared on the farm and at- 
tended the schools in Highspire. For eight 
years he was teller in the Hummelstown 
National Bank, after which he served for 
four years in the same position in the Steel- 
ton National Bank, which he, resigned in 
July, 1887, to engage in his present 
business. Mr. Mumma was married, at 
Hummelstown, February 22, 1883, to Miss 
Aggie M. Shope, daughter of Dr. Jacob and 
Esther (Mann) Shope. Their children are : 
Charles S., died in 1889 ; Robert W., Walter 
M., and Harold. Mr. Mumma is a member, 
and for six years the treasurer of Steelton 
Lodge, No. 184; of Steelton Encampment, 
No. 278, and of Evangeline Rebecca degree 
Lodge, I. O. 0. F. In his political views he 
is a Republican. He attends the St. John's 
Lutheran church, Steelton, and is secretary 
of the finance committee of the Y. M. C. A. 
He is also the agent at Steelton for the 
Adams Express Company. 

Miller, Charles R., M. D., Steelton, was 
born in Walker township, Schuylkill county, 
Pa., February 7, 1858; son of Eli and Mary 
(Koch) Miller, both deceased. He was reared 
in his native township, and his primary edu- 
cation was received in the district schools of 



1046 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



that township and McCainsburg. Subse- 
quently he took a normal and scientific course 
at Easton Normal School, from which he was 
graduated in the class of 1883. "While 
securing his education he was also employed 
in teaching public schools for ten years, and 
from 1882 to 1887 was occupied in the study 
of medicine. He entered the Hahnemann 
Medical College at Philadelphia, in 1885, 
from which he was graduated in 1887. Three 
months later he entered upon the practice of 
his profession at Steelton, in which he has 
been continuously engaged since that time. 
Dr. Miller was married at Orwigsburg, 
Schuylkill county, January 14, 1888, to Mary 
A. Hoy, daughter of Thomas Hoy, by whom 
he has one daughter, Maud H. He is a 
member of Camp No. 102, P. 0. S. of A., and 
Steelton Lodge, No. 184, I. 0. 0. F. Dr. 
Miller is also a member of the Central 
Pennsylvania Homcepathic Medical Society. 
In political views he is a Republican. He 
attends St. John's Lutheran church. 



Moyer, Elkanah D., general secretary 
of the Y. M. C. A., Steelton, was born in 
Robisonia, North Heidelberg township, Berks 
county, Pa., September 24, 1869 ; son of Jer- 
emiah E. and Melinda S. (Wenrich) Moyer. 
The father was a native of Berks county, 
and the mother of Lebanon county, both 
living and residing in Berks county, where 
the father is engaged in agricultural pur- 
suits. His children are : Rufus E., Orlando 

C, Herbert C, Stella G., and E. D. Elkanah 

D. received his primary education in the 
public schools of his native township, and 
later attended the Keystone State Normal 
School, from which latter institution he was 
graduated with the class of 1889. He also 
took a course at the Inter-State Commercial 
College at Reading, and the Palmer's Short 
Hand College of Philadelphia, after which 
he taught one year at the Inter-State College 
and four years in the public school of his 
native county. He then attended the Y. M. 
C. A. Training School at Springfield, Mass., 
and completed a course there, and on August 
1, 1895, was appointed to his present position. 
Mr. Moyer is unmarried. He is a member of 
St. John's Lutheran church. 



carpenter trade with Michael Ebersone, with 
whom he served one year, after which he 
served three years with Daniel Meyers. In 
1871 he came to Steelton and entered the 
employment of the Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany, and worked in the Bessemer depart- 
ment for three years, when he was trans- 
ferred to blooming mill No. 1, in which he 
remained until 1891. In that year he was 
elected to the office of commissioner of Dau- 
phin county, and performed the duties of 
the office for one term, with satisfaction to 
the citizens, who elected him in 1893 for a 
second term. He also served as State and 
county tax collector in 1889. He is active in 
political matters in connection with the Re- 
publican party. Mr. Nell is a member of 
Lodge No. 184, and of Encampment No. 
278, I. 0. 0. F., at Steelton, and is also a 
member of Susquehanna tribe, No. 298, I. 0. 
R. M. In 1874 he was married to Miss Sarah 
A. Angeny, daughter of William Angeny, 
by whom he had three children, two of 
whom are living : Harry A. and William 
H.; Jennie May died at the age of two 
months. Mr. Nell was married, secondly, in 
1884, to Miss Lorada Mabel Brown, daughter 
of David Brown, by whom he had three 
children : John E., Zelma, and Katie. 



Nell, Levi H., Steelton, was born in Adams 
county, Pa., June 17, 1850; son of Abraham 
Nell. He attended the common schools of his 
county, and worked on the farm with his 
father. He began an apprenticeship at the 



Nissley, Frank, secretary and treasurer 
of the Capital Shirt Company, Steelton, was 
born in Middletown, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 10, 1856; son of Jacob and Lydia 
(Croll) Nissley. He was reared in Middle- 
town and received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of his native place. He also took 
a course in the Iron City Commercial Col- 
lege, at Pittsburgh, Pa. His first business 
engagement was, with the Middletown Fur- 
niture Company, where he served as ac- 
countant for six years, after which he served 
in the same capacity for two years with R. 
I. Young. He was then seven years as ac- 
countant with theConewago Iron Company, 
at Middletown. In May, 1888, he was ap- 
pointed secretary and treasurer of the Capi- 
tal Shirt Company, since which date he has 
acceptably filled the position. Mr. Nissley 
was married, at Middletown, Pa., April 15, 
1880, to Miss Julia Rambler, daughter of 
M. B. and M. J. Rambler, of Middletown. 
He has served as school director at Middle- 
town. He and his family attend the Lu- 
theran church, of Middletown, where they 
have their residence. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1047 



Peters, Benjamin Snyder, son of Will- 
iam and Elizabeth (Snyder) Peters, was born 
March 19, 1834, in Londonderry township, 
Dauphin county, Pa. His grandfather, Ja- 
cob Peters, was a native of Lebanon county, 
and died there. He married Barbara Beeley, 
of Lebanon ; she died at Altoona. Their 
son, William Peters, was born in London- 
derry township, now Conewago township, 
October 27, 1811, and is still living. His 
wife was Elizabeth, daughter of Abraham 
Snyder, a native of Switzerland. She was 
born April 15, 1812, in Londonderry town- 
ship, and is living. Benjamin S. Peters re- 
ceived a common school education, and at 
the age of sixteen entered a store at Kelly's 
Corners, Lebanon county, to learn merchan- 
dizing, and afterwards at Meyerstown. In 
1858 he commenced business at Palmyra 
Landing, Lebanon county, where he re- 
mained until 1862, when he removed to 
Middletown, where he entered into partner- 
ship with his uncle in the mercantile trade. 
At the dissolution of the firm he purchased 
the store of Yetraan Eves, and for several 
years was the senior partner of the firm of 
Peters & Bro. He retired from business 
in January, 1883, and when the Farmers' 
Bank was established was made a director 
and chosen president, which position he now 
fills. Mr. Peters married, in November, 
1855, Sarah, daughter of John and Polly 
(Beane) Rupp, of Lebanon county, and their 
children were : Emma, Jerome G., and Eliza- 
beth. 



Peters, Simon O, president of the Capital 
Shirt Company, Steelton, was born in Lon- 
donderry township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 15, 1846 ; son of William and Elizabeth 
(Snyder) Peters. Both parents were born 
in Dauphin county. The father was a 
weaver by trade but was for the most part 
engaged in farming. He died at the age of 
seventy-one years. The wife survives him 
at the age of eighty-three years and resides 
on the old homestead. They had nine chil- 
dren, of whom five are living: Benjamin S., 
president of the Farmers' Bank and the lead- 
ing merchant at Middletown, Pa.; Catherine, 
wife of Joseph Felser, residing in London- 
derry township; Simon C; Mary, married, 
Londonderry township ; Samuel S., a prom- 
inent grocer of Middletown. 

Simon C. lived on the farm and attended 
the public school of his native township until 
he was twelve years of age when he re- 



moved to MiddletoAvn and was employed as 
a salesman in a general store. About twelve 
years later he and his brother, Benjamin S., 
of Middletown, purchased this store and con- 
ducted it for eighteen years under the firm 
name of Peters & Bro., after which, on ac- 
count of failing health, he was obliged to 
abandon the business and sold his interest 
to his nephew, Jerome G. Peters. For the 
next year and a half he was not in any ac- 
tive employment, but in 1886, in connection 
with I. B. Keller, he engaged in the manu- 
facture of shirts at Lebanon. In 1888 the 
Capital Shirt Company was formed and in- 
corporated with Mr. Peters as president, Mr. 
Frank Nissley, secretary, and Mr. Isaac B. 
Keller, superintendent. Mr. Peters was 
married, at Middletown, Pa., May 15, 1873, 
to Miss Rachel S. Nissley, daughter of Jacob 
L. and Lydia (Croll) Nissley. Their children 
are : Marion Nissley, Lydia Croll, and Simon 
C, Jr. Mr. Peters is a director of the Far- 
mers' Bank at Middletown, and also one of 
the organizers and treasurer of the Mid- 
dletown Drainage Company. He is prom- 
inently connected with the Masonic fratern- 
ity, being a member of Prince Edwin Lodge, 
No. 486 ; Perseverance Chapter, No. 21, and 
Pilgrim Commandery, No. 11, K. T. In his 
political views Mr. Peters is a Republican. 
He and his family are members of St. Peter's 
church, at Middletown, where they reside. 



Prowell, Dr. William R., pharmacist, 
Steelton, was born in Fishing Creek Valley, 
York county, Pa., March 20, 1854 ; son of 
Samuel L. and Sarah (Reeser) Prowell. The 
father was born in York county, July 25, 
1813, and died July 18, 1871. His life was 
spent in agricultural pursuits, and he took 
an active interest in all measures calculated 
to better the condition of his fellow-men and 
to promote the growth and prosperity of the 
community. He was much in public life, 
and filled efficiently several offices of trust. 
The mother was also a native of York 
county, and died in 1858, at the age of thir- 
ty-eight years. They had twelve children, 
eight of whom are living: Henry, residing 
in New York ; Silas, living on the home- 
stead ; Prof. George R, principal of Hanover 
high school ; Dr. William R.; Eliza, wife of 
Martin Bare, Hummel stown, Pa.; Jane, wife 
of Jacob Berger, Goldsboro, York county; 
Elmira, wife of Samuel G. Detwiler, Steel- 
ton; and Susan, wife of Henry Miller, York, 
Pa. Of their deceased children, two died in 



1048 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



infancy ; Dr. Andrew R. died at Manchester, 
Pa., in 1872, and Franklin R. died at Golds- 
boro, Pa,, in 1886. 

William R. was reared on the homestead 
farm, and received his primary education in 
the district schools of his native township. 
In 1869 he entered the State Normal School 
at Millersville, in which he took a three 
years' course, and in 1872 taught in the pub- 
lic schools of York county. During the follow- 
ing year he read medicine with Dr. W. E. 
Sweiler, of Yocumtown, and in the fall of 1874 
entered the Jefferson Medical College, at Phil- 
adelphia, from which he was graduated in 
March, 1876, and at once began the practice 
of medicine, at Siddonsbnrg, York county, in 
which he continued until July, 1889, when he 
removed to Steelton, where he has since been 
a continuous resident, devoting the greater 
part of his time to his pharmacy. Dr. 
Prowell is at present filling the office of tax 
receiver in the internal revenue department, 
and his term of office continues until 1897. 
He was married, at Siddonsburg, October 5, 
1876, to Miss Jennie E. Elcock, daughter of 
John and Christy Ann Elcock, to whom have 
been born four children, of whom the sur- 
vivors are : Tolbert, Nellie, and Jacob Henry. 
Viola May died September 13, 1882, at the 
age of four years; Ella died March 26, 1886, 
at the age of six months. Dr. Prowell is a 
member of the Heptasophs, and of the State 
Pharmaceutical Society. In his political 
views he is a staunch Republican. He at- 
tends the Presbyterian church. 



Page, S. S., Oberlin, Pa., was born in Pax- 
tang township, Dauphin county, Pa., in 
1856 ; son of Daniel and Mary Ann (Over- 
cash) Page. He attended the schools in 
Dauphin county, and at Palmyra, Pa., and 
was employed on the farm until seventeen 
years of age, when he became an apprentice 
at the carpenter trade with J. B. Dunkle, 
upon completion of which he engaged in 
contracting and building. Subsequently he 
took up the real estate business at Steelton, 
in which he has continued until the present 
time. In his political views Mr. Page is a 
Republican, and takes an active part in pub- 
lic matters. He was elected justice of the 
peace in 1877, and served until 1892, when 
he was elected a member of the Legislature, 
and in 1894 was re-elected to the same office. 
He has been a delegate to county conven- 
tions, and has served on the Republican 
County Committee. Mr. Page was instru- 



mental in the organization of the Citizens' 
Passenger Railway Company, and was one 
of the directors of the company up to 1895. 
He is also a director in the Dauphin County 
Fire Insurance Company, and is the presi- 
dent of the Guarantee Fire Insurance Com- 
pany, of Philadelphia. Mr. Page was mar- 
ried, in 1876, to Miss Lizzie Brehm, daugh- 
ter of Dr. Samuel Brehm, of Hummelstown, 
by whom he has six children: Anna Mary, 
Jennie Pearl, Arthur Levan,Louman Brehm, 
Edgar Sylvester, and Faith G. Mr. Page 
has been an honored citizen of Oberlin since 
1876, and has contributed largely to the 
growth and prosperity of the place. 



Rutherford, John, teacher and farmer, 
was born November 9, 1840, and is a son 
of John B. and Keziah Rutherford. The 
grandfather, Samuel, was a native of Dau- 
phin county and was engaged in farming, 
which occupation he pursued all his life. 
He had a family of six children. The par- 
ents also were natives of Dauphin county 
and were engaged in farming. 

John was one of a family of eight chil- 
dren and received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of Swatara township until he 
was sixteen years old, when he attended the 
academy for a year and a half. In 1864 
Mr. Rutherford enlisted in company G, Two 
Hundred and First regiment, and served 
for ten months. Since that time his time 
has been divided between teaching and 
farming. He was married, December 10, 
1868, to Miss Margaret B. Elder, daughter of 
Joshua and Nancj* (Brown) Elder. Their 
children are : Howard A., Ralph B.; Elenora 
V., Isabella P., John, Margaret B., Matthew 
R., Ruth, and Vancy B. The latter died in 
her infancy. Mr. Rutherford is a Republi- 
can and served as school director for six 
years. He is a member of G. A. R. Post 
No. 58, and is also a member of the Pres- 
byterian church. 



Rutherford, Francis W., farmer, was 
born December 4, 1845, and is a son of John 
B. and Keziah (Park) Rutherford. The 
grandfather, Samuel, was born July 16, 1769, 
and his wife, Miss Elizabeth Bronson, in 
October, 1770. The maternal grandfather 
was born in Dauphin county, and married 
Miss Margaret Ainsworth. Their children 
were : Thomas, Samuel, Matthew, Eliza, Mary, 
Margaret, William, Margaret Long, and Ma- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1049 



tilda. The grandfather was a director of the 
Harrisburg Bank. 

The father was born in Dauphin county, 
while the mother was a native of Chester 
county. His wife's maiden name was Miss 
Keziah Park, and their marriage occurred 
March 19, 1833. Their children were : Mary 
L., Eliza J., Adaline, Samuel, John A., Fran- 
cis W., K. V., and Mamie G. He was en- 
gaged in farming until he retired in 1878. 
He filled a number of township offices and 
served in the State Legislature, and also for 
one term as State senator. He died October 
10, 1892, and his wife July 2, 1885. They 
were both members of the Presbyterian 
church, of which Mr. Rutherford was an 
elder for many years.. 

Francis W. received his education in the 
public schools of Swatara township until he 
was seventeen years of age, when he attended 
the Millersville State Normal School. In 
1864 he enlisted in company D, One Hun- 
dred and Ninety-fourth regiment, and served 
until honorably discharged. After the war 
he engaged in farming with his father. He 
was married, February 14, 1878, to Miss Ella 
S. Elder, daughter of Joshua and Nancy 
(Brown) Elder. Their children are : Joshua, 
Thomas M., Norman, Francis W., Samuel B., 
Jane W. Mr. Rutherford is a school director 
and a member of Post No. 58, G. A. R., Har- 
risburg, Pa. In politics he is a Republican 
and he and his family are members of the 
Presbyterian church. Mrs. Rutherford's 
father was born January 18, 1802, in Swatara 
township. He first married Miss Elenora 
Shearer, by whom he had three sons : Joshua 
R., David R., and John. He married, sec- 
ondly, Miss Mary Gilmore, and they had one 
daughter, Elizabeth M., wife of William K. 
Cowden. His third wife was Miss Nancy 
Brown, daughter of Thomas and Margarette 
(Ainsworth) Brown. Their children are: 
Margaret, Matthew, Eleanor, Matilda, and 
Mary Ada, deceased. The father died August 
25, 1888, at the age of eighty-two years, and 
the mother October 4, 1887, aged seventy 
years. Both were members of the Presby- 
terian church. 



Ricker, George T., farmer, was born in 
Swatara township, July 13, 1839, and is a 
son of Frederick and Catherine (Backstoe) 
Ricker. The great-grandfather was a native 
of Germany, and served in the Revolution- 
ary war. The paternal grandparents were 
natives of Lebanon county and were en- 



gaged in farming. They reared a family of 
seven children, of whom William alone sur- 
vives. The maternal grandparents were 
also natives of Lebanon county and engaged 
in farming. They had six children, and 
were members of the Lutheran church. 

The father was born in Dauphin county, 
October, 1790, and received his education in 
his native county. He lived on the farm 
until he was thirty years old, and then, in 
1826, engaged in the hotel business for 
twenty-seven years in Swatara township. 
He then began farming again, and contin- 
ued a number of years in that occupation. 
He finally retired to Hummelstown, where 
he died in May, 1872. In politics he was a 
Whig, and served as school director for six 
years in Swatara township. He was a 
member of the Lutheran church. His wife 
died in October, 1888, at the age of eighty- 
seven years. He was married to Miss 
Catherine Backstoe, daughter of George and 
Elizabeth (Hoover) Backstoe, in Deny town- 
ship, Dauphin county, February, 1821. 
They had thirteen children, of whom five 
are living: Elizabeth, Catherine, Frederick, 
Mary, and George T. 

George T. received his education in the 
public schools of his native county, and 
lived with his parents until twenty-seven 
years of age. In 1866 Mr. Ricker began 
farming for himself on the old homestead, 
which he bought from his father's estate in 
1873, where he has since resided. He was 
married, at Hummelstown, November 19, 
1865, to Miss Catherine Hetrick, daughter 
of Adam and Margaret (Albright) Hetrick. 
Their children were: Maggie C. ; Edwin S.; 
William H, who graduated from the Phila- 
delphia School of Pharmacy in 1895, and 
is now clerk for Dr. Meade, in Philadelphia; 
Harry C. who died September 1, 1879. In 
politics Mr. Ricker is a Republican, and 
has served as school director for six years, 
and held the-office of tax collector one year. 
He is a member of the Lutheran church. 

Mrs. Ricker was born May 28, 1843. Her 
parents were natives of Dauphin county, 
her father being born January 11, 1803, the 
mother July 11, 1798. Her father was a 
farmer by occupation, and married Miss 
Margaret Albright, daughter of Henrv and 
Elizabeth (Walmer) Albright. Their chil- 
dren are : John H. ; Adam ; William ; Cath- 
erine ; Caroline, deceased ; Margaret, de- 
ceased ; Amos, deceased ; and Samuel, de- 
ceased. The father was a tanner and died 



1050 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



in 1865, and the mother in 1870. The 
former was a member of the Reformed 
church, the latter of the Lutheran. 



Spitler, Adam G., shoemaker, was born 
in Jonestown, Lebanon county, October 30, 
1818, and is a son of Adam and Elizabeth 
(Gosserd) Spitler. The grandfather was a 
native of Lebanon county, as were also the 
father and mother. The father was a weaver 
by trade, and followed that occupation all 
his life. He married Miss Elizabeth Gos- 
serd, and their children are: Adam G.; 
John, deceased ; William, deceased ; Samuel, 
also deceased. He filled various offices in 
Lebanon county, serving as constable for a 
number of years, and as tax collector, and 
for fifteen years was assessor. 

Adam G. received his education in the 
public schools until he was sixteen years 
old, when he secured employment on the 
Union canal for two years, and then began 
the trade of hat manufacturer, but was com- 
pelled to quit because of ill health. He next 
learned the trade of shoemaking, and has 
spent most of his time since in that occupa- 
tion, but for a time was engaged in boating 
along the canal above Hummelstown. He 
resided for thirteen years at the old lock- 
house, and then built the home he now oc- 
cupies. He retired from work in 1894. He 
was married, April 18, 1842, at Jonestown, 
to Miss Rebecca Swartz, daughter of Andrew 
and Mary (Cauffer) Swartz. Their children 
are: Jacob, Alfred, Pollie, Benjamin, Sam- 
uel, Adam, deceased, and Emma, deceased. 
Mr. Spitler is a Republican, and a member 
of the Lutheran church. Mrs. Spitler was 
born February 28, 1825, in Berks county, 
of which her parents were both natives. 
Her father married Miss Mary Cauffer. Their 
children are: Absalom; Susan; Rebecca; 
Elizabeth ; Peter, deceased ; Israel, deceased ; 
Reuben, deceased; Leah, deceased; and 
Adeline, deceased. 



Saul, Charles H., M. D., Steelton, was 
born in Dauphin county, Pa., in December, 
1853 ; son of William Saul, a native also of 
Dauphin county. He receive his primary 
education in the Middletown schools, and at 
the age of thirteen years he entered the store 
of Rambler & Luckier as a clerk, where he 
remained eight years. In 1875 he entered 
the office of Dr. Mish as a student of medi- 
cine. In 1878 he was graduated from the 
medical department of the University of 



Pennsylvania at Philadelphia, and at once 
began the practice of his profession at Steel- 
ton, where he has since enjoyed an extensive 
patronage. Dr. Saul was married, in Sep- 
tember, 1890, to Caroline Smeller, daughter 
of Dr. George F. and Mary (Smeller) Mish, 
of Middletown Pa. 



Snavely, John H., D. D. S., and notary pub- 
lic, Steelton, was born at Newville, Cumber- 
land county, Pa., February 19, 1855 ; son of 
John and Susan (Gist) Snavely. When nine 
years of age he removed with his parents to 
Hockersville, and subsequently to Hum- 
melstown, where he received his education 
in the public schools. He then entered the 
office of the superintendent of the Philadel- 
phia and Reading Railroad Company at 
Columbia, as telegrapher, where he remained 
two years. In the early part of 1870 he began 
the study of dentistry with Dr. S. Mathews, 
of Steelton, with whom he subsequently 
became a partner in his business and has 
been engaged in the j>ractice of his profession 
at Steelton for twenty years. Dr. Snavely 
was married, at Steelton, February 14, 1892, 
to Miss Ella M. Dunkle, daughter of Josiah A. 
and Mary Dunkle, of Steelton. They have 
six children : the first born died in infancy, 
Bertha B., Nettie E., Lottie M., Herman J., 
and Ruth B. For five years Dr. Snavely oc- 
cupied the office of justice of the peace and 
acceptably performed its duties, and in 1890 
was appointed notary public, which office he 
still holds. In connection with his profession 
Dr. Snavely conducted a general store in 
Steelton for four years, and also carries on a 
general' real estate business. He is also the 
agent of all the Trans-Atlantic steamship 
companies. 



Vanier, George P., superintendent of the 
chemical department of the Pennsylvania 
Steel Works, was born in Omaha, Neb., 
June 6, 1862; son of Timothy and Eliza 
(Vincent) Vanier. He removed with his 
parents to Boston, Mass., in 1871, and re- 
ceived his education in the public schools of 
that city. His professional and scientific 
training was received in the Boston Insti- 
tute of Technology, from which institution 
he received the degree of Mining Engineer 
in the class of 1885. In June of the same 
year he came to Steelton and entered the 
employment of the Pennsylvania Steel Com- 
pany, and in 1886 was advanced to the po- 
sition of superintendent of the chemical 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1051 



laboratory, which position he has filled 
since that date. Mr. Vanier was married, 
in 1892, to Miss Helen Maloney, daughter 
of Thomas Maloney, of Harrisburg. They 
have one child, George Kenneth. Mr. Vanier 
is not active in politics. The family are 
members of St. James' Roman Catholic 
church. 



Zeigler, William L., physician, was born 
at Halifax, Dauphin county, Pa., February 
18, 1855 ; son of Daniel Zeigler. Owing to 
the death of his father when eleven years 
old he began taking care of himself, and 
first found employment in the tanyard of 
J. Henry Shamrno for two and a half years, 
after which he became a driver on the canal. 
Jacob Knouf employed him two years on 
the farm, and then he worked one summer 
at whitewashing, and after another turn at 
canal driving he found employment at 
Halifax in the store of Lodge & Landis for 
some years. He then attended a select school 
several terms and taught the Tyson's school 
one term, after which he returned to Hali- 
fax and worked for four and a half years in 
the store of J. B. Landis, during which time 
he studied medicine out of business hours 
with Dr. H. R. Caslow, and thus prepared 
himself for the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons at Baltimore, from which he wa,s 
graduated with honors. In May, 1881, he 
located in Steel ton, where he was successful 
in his professional and business career. In 
his political views Dr. Zeigler is a staunch 
Democrat and is prominent and active in 
the party, having served as chairman of the 
Democratic County Committee. He served 
as a member of the school board two terms, 
and was chairman of the building commit- 
tee four years, -and in 1891 was elected 
member of the city council from the Fifth 
ward, in which office he was active and in- 
fluential in securing important public im- 
provements. 



Abercrombie, Wyman E., general super- 
intendent of the Steelton Store Company, 
was born in Quincy, Mass., and received his 
education in the form of a practical training 
for business in dry goods and jobbing in 
Boston, Mass., where he was employed for 
many years. In 1887 he came to Dauphin 
county and became the superintendent of 
the Pennsylvania Steel Company's store, 



which position he has filled since that date. 
He is also secretary of the Steelton Brick 
Company and is secretary and treasurer of 
the Steelton Flouring Mills. He was mar- 
ried, in 1876, to Miss Coffin. 



UPPER PAXTON TOWNSHIP. 



Wenrich, Francis, retired, was born near 
Linglestown, Lower Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., September 9, 1810. He is 
a son of Peter and Susanna (Umberger) Wen- 
rich. His paternal grandfather came from 
Germany and settled in Lebanon county. 
He was a soldier in the Revolution, partici- 
pating in the battles of the Brandyvvine and 
of Germantown, served in the military oper- 
ations on the frontiers against the Indians, 
and was subsequently at the massacre of 
Wyoming. He married Elizabeth Greiger; 
they had two sons, Peter, father of Francis, 
and Philip, besides several daughters. The 
elder Francis Wenrich died about 1825, and, 
with his wife, is buried in the Wenrich grave- 
yard. 

Heinrich Umberger, ancestor of Susanna 
Umberger, mother of the younger Fran- 
cis Wenrich, came with his wife and two 
sons, Michael and John, to this country in the 
ship Hope. They landed at Philadelphia, 
August 28, 1733, and took up six hundred 
and forty acres of land, near where the city 
of Lebanon now stands. Michael Umberger 
had four sons: John, Henry, Adam, and 
Philip. John and Henry were soldiers of 
the Revolutionary war, serving as captains 
under Gen. Anthony Wayne. John was 
in the battle on Long Island, and was either 
killed or captured by the British, as he never 
returned or was heard of. Henry served 
through the war and returned home. He 
died aged one hundred and three years. 

Adam Umberger, third son of Michael, 
had two sons, John and David, and two 
daughters, one of whom, Susanna H, is the 
mother of Francis Wenrich, having married 
Peter Wenrich, afterwards high sheriff of 
Dauphin county. The other daughter, Mar- 
garet, was married to Peter Heckert, of Lin- 
glestown, and died in Dauphin, aged ninety- 
two. John Umberger, son of Adam, mar- 
ried Elizabeth Wenrich, sister of Peter Wen- 
rich, the high sheriff. 

Peter Wenrich, son of Francis and Eliza- 
beth (Greiger) Wenrich, was born near Lin- 
glestown, Dauphin county, Pa., in 1773. 



1052 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



He was brought upon his father's farm, and 
received a rather limited education. He re- 
moved to Halifax township, where he re- 
sided until his election to the office of sheriff 
of Dauphin county ; he then removed to 
Harrisburg. His official term was from Oc- 
tober 19, 1818, to October 16, 1821. He also 
became proprietor of the hotel which formerly 
occupied the site of the Lochiel House. 
Peter Wenrich was of moral character, a 
public-spirited citizen and a conscientious 
and efficient public servant. He died in 
Harrisburg, February 27, 1825, in the fifty- 
second year of his age. His marriage with 
Susanna, daughter of John Umberger, took 
place February 2, 1796. They had eleven 
children: John; Peter; Samuel; Francis; 
David ; Joseph ; Mary, wife of Henry Sheafer ; 
Elizabeth, wife of Isaac Minshall ; Susan, 
wife of Mr. Sloan ; Sarah, wife of William 
Scott, and Rebecca, wife of Albert Umberger. 

In 1816, when Francis Wenrich was six 
years old, his parents removed to the bor- 
ough of Halifax ; two years later, his father 
being made sheriff, the family removed to Har- 
risburg. There he attended a private school 
taught by Patrick McCushion,was afterwards 
a student in the Harrisburg Academy, until 
he was fourteen, and later attended a private 
school at Halifax. After his father's death 
in 1825, Mr. Wenrich assisted his brother-in- 
law, Henry Sheafer, in the management of 
the hotel. Shortly after Mr. Sheafer took 
the contract for building the turnpike across 
Peters' Mountain, and employed Francis 
Wenrich to superintend the work. This be- 
ing completed, Francis engaged in contract- 
ing on his own account, and at sixteen years 
of age secured the contract of constructing 
two sections of the Lykens Valley railroad, 
projected and located some time before. 
Having finished this job in about a year, he 
was for some time employed as manager 
of the large store of Sheriff Samuel France, 
at Millersburg, Pa. He was next engaged in 
superintendiug the construction of the rail- 
road from York, Pa., to Baltmore, Md., which 
occupied about one year. In 1846, in con- 
nection with his brother-in-law, Henry 
Sheafer, and Mr. Ehrman, he entered into a 
contract for the rebuilding of the Lykens 
Valley railroad and completed the work in 
about two years. 

Mr. Wenrich afterwards returned to Mil- 
lersburg, and was employed as shipping agent 
for the Lykens Valley Coal Company, the 
company then consisting of Simon Gratz, 



George Thompson, Rock Thompson, Henry 
Sheafer and Henry Schreiner. In this po- 
sition he remained until 1861 ; he shipped 
over 225,000 tons of coal per annum for 
the Summit Branch Railway Coal Com- 
pany. In 1864 he contracted with the Sum- 
mit Branch Coal Company for the excava- 
tion and construction of the famous canal 
basin at Millersburg. After completing the 
basin he was employed by the company as 
shipping and sales agent. Since 1869 Mr. 
Wenrich has not been actively engaged in 
any business excepting the management of 
his extensive private interests. He was 
active and largely interested in the establish- 
ment of the Millersburg Bank, of which he 
is now the president. Mr. Wenrich began 
his business career at the age of fifteen with- 
out any money capital. His enviable suc- 
cess is due to his sagacity and foresight in 
business, and his correct and able methods. 
Young men will find in the record of his life 
encouragement and inspiration, and will 
learn from his history how one may rise 
from lowdy conditions to honor and affluence. 

Francis Wenrich was married, May 29, 
1838, to Mary, daughter of Adam and Mary 
(Ditty) Light, born in Upper Paxton town- 
ship, January 17, 1814. They have had four 
children : Joseph, born April 14, 1841, died 
September 12, 1842; Ellen, born August 11, 
1849, died March 30, 1863; Mary, born 
April 2, 1844, died October 16, 1864, and Isa- 
dore, their only surviving child, born March 
8, 1839. Mrs. Wenrich, the beloved wife of 
Francis Wenrich, passed peacefully away, 
June 5, 1896, after a brief illness of four 
weeks, in the eighty-third year of her age. 

Mr. Wenrich is a Republican, and was 
unanimously nominated for the office of 
county treasurer by the county convention 
of his party, but declined the honor. In 
matters of religious faith his preferences are 
Avith the Presbvterian church. 



Bowman, Simon Sallade, attorn ey-at- law, 
was born atElizabethtowui, Dauphin county, 
Pa., October 10, 1842. He is a son of John 
J. and Margaret (Sallade) Bowman. John 
F. Bowman, his paternal grandfather, was 
born in Lancaster county, Pa., May 10, 1771, 
the son of a farmer residing at Pequea 
creek, near Strasburg. John F. Bowman 
w r as brought up a millwright. In 1809 he 
removed to Halifax, where he was a mer- 
chant until 1830; at that time he removed 
to Millersburg, and continued to carry on the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1053 



business successfully until his death, which 
occurred November 6, 1835. He was first 
married, in 1794, to a daughter of Isaac 
Ferree, by whom he had four children : 
Eliza, Maria, George, and Josiah, who mar- 
ried Elizabeth Rutter. Mrs. John F. Bow- 
man died, and Mr. Bowman, in 1805, mar- 
ried Frances, daughter of John Crossen, 
born August 31, 1786. They had nine chil- 
dren : John J.; Levi; Louisa and Isaac; 
Mary E., wife of Rev. 0. W. Jackson ; Lu- 
cinda, wife of Dr. Hiram Rutherford ; Jacob, 
Emeline, and Benjamin. The second Mrs. 
J. F. Bowman died September 30, 1846, and 
was interred beside her husband in the old 
Methodist graveyard at Millersburg. Their 
remains have since heen removed to Oak 
Hill cemetery. 

John J. Bowman and Margaret, his wife, 
the parents of S. S. Bowman, are both de- 
ceased. They had seven children : Mary F., 
wife of T. J. Black ; Jennie E., wife of Prof. 
C. F. Fahnestock, of Chester, Delaware 
county, Pa.; Lucinda ; Dr. John F., of Mil- 
lersburg ; Shnon S., Levi B., and Maggie. 
John Sallade, maternal grandfather of S. S. 
Bowman, was of Huguenot extraction, and 
was born at Basel-on-the-Rhine in March, 
1739. He and other members of his family 
came to America at an early date, and were 
among the first settlers of the Wiconisco. 
John Sallade died in November, 1827, aged 
eighty-eight. He was married, February 8, 
1771, to Margaret, daughter of George Ever- 
hart, born in Berks county, Pa. 

Simon Sallade, maternal grandfather of 
S. S. Bowman, by his excellent character 
and distinguished public services, made his 
name well known to all the citizens of Dau- 
phin county. He was born near Gratz, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 7, 1785. He 
was four times elected to the Pennsylvania 
House of Representatives ; first, at the age 
of thirty-four, for the term of 1819-20 ; next 
for the term of 1835-1837, when he was 
fifty-one years old, and again in 1853, when 
he was in his sixty- ninth year. He served 
with ability and distinction in all these ses- 
sions of the Legislature. Mr. Sallade was 
the author of what was generally known as 
the "Wiconisco Feeder Bill," and to his zeal 
and tact this measure of importance to the 
material interests of upper Dauphin county 
owes its passage. Through the outlet pro- 
vided by this improvement, the Lykens 
Valley coal fields were developed. Through 
the influence of the canal commissioners, 



Mr. Sallade was appointed superintendent of 
the construction of the Wiconisco canal. 

Simon Sallade died at the old homestead, 
near Elizabethville, November 8, 1854, and 
is interred in the village graveyard at that 
place. His wife was Jane Woodside, daugh- 
ter of John Woodside, of Lykens Valley. 
She died September 3, 1854, and is buried 
beside her husband. Their children were : 
Margaret, wife of John J. Bowman, of Mil- 
lersburg ; Ann, wife of Edward Bickel ; 
Jane, wife of Daniel K. Smith ; Simon, 
Jacob, John, George, and Joseph. 

The story of the life of Simon Sallade is a 
familiar one in Lykens Valley. His socia- 
bility, hospitality, humor, uprightness and 
broad charity are still talked about, and 
form a part of the traditional local history. 
His name is mentioned with grateful recol- 
lection of his goodness and acknowledg- 
ment of his greatness. 

Simon Sallade Bowman, at six years, re- 
moved with his parents to Millersburg, 
where he attended the borough public school 
until he was sixteen. He then entered Dick- 
inson Seminar}', Williamsport, Pa., from 
which he graduated in June, 1863. He then 
enlisted in the United States arm}', at Camp 
Curtin, Harrisburg, joining company G, Thir- 
ty-seventh Pennsylvania volunteers, under 
Capt. Thomas Bennett and Colonel Trout. 
During his service he was detailed for duty 
in the office of Colonel Sallade, paymaster of 
the United States army, department of re- 
ferred claims. He continued in this posi- 
tion until February, 1866, during which 
time he attended the Columbia Law School, 
Washington, D. C He afterwards studied 
law in the office of Hon. A. J. Herr, of Har- 
risburg, and was admitted to the Harrisburg 
bar, April 26, 1866, having passed examina- 
tion before a committee composed of Hon. 
John J. Pearson, Hon. John C. Kunkel, Hon. 
David Fleming, and John S. Detweiler, Esq. 
Mr. Bowman then opened an office at Mil- 
lersburg, and entered upon the practice of 
law. He has obtained a large and profitable 
clientage, and enjoys the confidence and 
esteem of all who know him. 

Mr. Bowman was married, July 29, 1866, 
to Anne P. Jackson, daughter of Addison 
and Hannah P. (Light) Jackson. They have 
seven children : Sumner S.; Edmund B.; 
Irene A., wife of J. S. Hopkinson, superin- 
tendent of the Northern Central railroad 
from Harrisburg to Sunbury ; Nellie M., wife 
of Hay W. Bowman, editor of the Millers- 



1054 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



burg Sentinel; Hannah, at present a student 
at Dickinson Seminary; James Donald, and 
Robert Herr. Mr. Bowman is a Republican. 
He was elected to the office of burgess in 
1892, and re-elected in 1894, and served with 
credit to himself and satisfaction to his con- 
stituency. He is a member in good stand- 
ing of Susquehanna Lodge, No. 364, F. & A. 
M.; also of Kilpatrick Post, No. 212, G. A. 
R. The family are members of the Meth- 
odist church, at Millersburg, Pa. 

Addison Jackson, father of Mrs. Bowman, 
is deceased. His wife is still living. They 
had four children : Amelia, wife of H. 
H. Whitman; Annie P., Mrs. Bowman; 
Helen, wife of E. H. Giffin, and John W., 



Freck, Newton C, lumber merchant, 
was born at the old homestead at Millers- 
burg, Upper Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., November 21, 1841. He is a 
son of Matthias and Eliza A. (Penrose) 
Freck. Matthias Freck was born at Baden 
Baden, Germany, in 1795, and came to 
America when he was fifteen years of age. 
He died May 28, 1868. He was very influ- 
ential in the establishment of the first 
public school at Millersburg, serving on the 
committee, which consisted of Jacob Seal, 
John J. Bowman*, Dr. Rathbon, and others. 
His wife, Eliza A. Penrose, was born 
August 12, 1804. They had eight children : 
Joseph ; Melvina, wife of John Johnson, 
deceased, and now widow of Samuel H. 
Loughabaugh ; Rudolph, Roland, Rinaldo, 
Melancthon Paul, John Luther, and New- 
ton Calvin. Mrs. Freck died January 10, 
1892. She was the daughter of Joseph and 
Euphan (Pratt) Penrose. Joseph Penrose 
was the son of Col. Joseph Penrose, of 
Revolutionary fame, who commanded a regi- 
ment in that war, and who was a brother- 
in-law of Gen. Anthony Wayne, by the 
General's marriage with his sister. 

Newton Calvin Freck received his educa- 
tion in the public schools of Millersburg, 
which he attended until he was about 
fifteen. He then began to learn the trade 
of machinist at Minersville, Schuylkill 
county, Pa., with William DeHaven, pro- 
prietor of the Minersville Machine Works. 
He had served about two and a half years 
of his apprenticeship when the business 
panic of 1857-58 caused the closing of the 
works. He returned home, attended the 
Millersburg school for about two years, and 
then engaged in farming for his brother 



Roland, Upper Paxton township, and con- 
tinued there about two years. In 1862 he 
engaged in manufacturing and dealing in 
lumber, having formed a partnership with 
his brother Joseph, under the firm name of 
N. C. Freck & Co. His brother was an 
extensive coal dealer at Centralia, Columbia 
county, Pa. The firm dealt extensively in 
all kinds of lumber, and established a large 
and profitable trade in Eastern and Southern 
markets. The business was continued until 
1890. 

Mr. Freck was one of the projectors and 
one of the first directors of the Millersburg 
Bank, Millersburg, Pa. He was the chief 
promoter of the State Millers' Association, 
called and issued the circulars for the first 
meeting, which was held at Central Hall, 
Sunbury, Pa., January 8, 1878. At that 
meeting he was appointed chairman of the 
committee which drew up the by-laws by 
which the association has ever since been 
governed. Mr. Freck was nominated for 
president, but declined on account of his 
being but a young man in the milling 
business. He was one of the promoters of 
the Millersburg Water Works, and is at 
present one of the directors of the works. 
He is likewise interested in the Millersburg 
Electric Light Works. He was also among 
the promoters of waterworks at Mifflintown, 
and Patterson, Juniata county; Steelton, 
Dauphin county ; Newport, Perry county, and 
at Womelsdorf, Berks county. He superin- 
tended the construction of the works at all 
these places. He is the inventor of an 
ingenious device for filtering the water. 
He is one of a company of six who are 
building the water plant at Newville, Pa., 
now nearly completed. He is ranked 
among the most sagacious business men, 
and the most proficient and successful me- 
chanical engineers. Mr. Freck stands 
equally well in all the relations of life, and 
his ability and jjersonal worth are univer- 
sally recognized. In 1876 Mr. Freck was 
the Republican nominee for assemblyman 
in the northern district in Dauphin county. 
He was defeated at the election by three 
votes, which he claims resulted from the 
liquor traffic influence being on the side of 
his opponent, Mr. A. T. Englebert. 

Mr. Freck was married, November 28, 
1866, to Emma R., daughter of Daniel and 
Margaret (Rote) Wagner, who was born 
November 26, 1843. They have had three 
children : Paul W., born October 7, 1876, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1055 



died October 8, 1886 ; Annie M., born Sep- 
tember 8, 1867, and Clark C, born January 
11, 1870. Mr. Freck and his family are 
members of the Lutheran church at Mil- 
lersburg. 



Bowman, Frank S., attorney-at-law and 
publisher, Millersburg, Dauphin county, Pa., 
is a son of Josiah and Margaret (Rutter) 
Bowman, being the youngest of a family of 
nine children, and was born at Loyalton, 
Dauphin county, January 24, 1844. 

Mr. Bowman received a good classical 
education, after which he read law in the 
office of Hon. Robert A. Lamberton, Harris- 
burg, Pa., and was admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar in April, 1866. He has also been 
admitted to all the neighboring bars. As a 
newspaper man Mr. Bowman has been more 
than ordinarily successful. In June, 1884, 
he established the Millersburg Sentinel, which 
was a success from the start, and is now a 
journal of large circulation and wide influ- 
ence. Mr. Bowman is a talented and enter- 
taining writer. His style is formed from the 
best literature and standard classic models, 
as he has possibly the largest and best se- 
lected literary library in his end of the 
county. His scrap books, which he has been 
making since the age of fourteen, alone form 
a rare and valuable collection. From these 
certain data and articles have been copied 
and furnished to some distinguished scholars. 
He has observed the rule to purchase a book 
when visiting a new city or community, and 
as a result has books picked up in many 
parts of the country. As an example, he 
purchased a copy of " Robinson Crusoe," in 
the city of Elmira in 1878. At this time he 
tried a case in court in Elmira with Hon. 
David B. Hill as associate counsel. He owns 
part of the library of that distinguished 
scholar and critic, R. Shelton MacKenzie, 
late of Philadelphia. Mr. Bowman is an 
enterprising citizen, and has filled various 
offices of trust in his community. He was a 
delegate from his county to the Democratic 
State Convention, at Pittsburgh, in 1874, the 
year after the adoption of the new State 
Constitution. He was always an admirer 
and active suppoiter of the lamented Will- 
iam A. Wallace. He was aj)pointed post- 
master of Millersburg by President Cleve- 
land, in February, 1895, and commissioned 
for four years. 

Frank S. Bowman was married, September 
14, 1869, to Mary C, third daughter of 



Simon Wert, a prominent citizen and highly 
esteemed Christian gentleman, now deceased, 
of Millersburg. Two children were born to 
this union: Hay Wert, born June 30, 1870, 
and Linn, born April 28, 1874. Hay is now 
editor of the Millersburg Sentinel, and is 
showing rare ability as a writer for one of 
his years. Linn Bowman is a member of 
the Junior class at Dickinson College, and 
ranks high in his class. He has the minis- 
try in view. 

Mrs. Bowman died December 5, 1893, 
under the most touching circumstances. A 
true Christian mother, a devoted wife, an 
ardent worker in the Methodist Episcopal 
church, her loss was keenly felt by all who 
knew her. Editor Bowman, of the Sentinel, 
was married, June 6, 1895, to Miss Nellie M. 
Bowman, daughter of Chief Burgess Simon 
S. Bowman. It affords us pleasure to con- 
clude this sketch by saying that the family 
of Mr. Bowman is one of the most cultured 
and intelligent in Dauphin county. 



Bowman, Levi B., tinsmith, was born at 
Elizabeth ville, Dauphin county, Pa., De- 
cember 14, 1846; son of John J. and Mar- 
garet (Sallade) Bowman. John F. Bowman, 
his paternal grandfather, was born in Lan- 
caster county, Pa., May 10, 1771, and was 
the son of a farmer residing on Pequea 
creek. He was brought up as a millwright, 
but in 1809 removed to Halifax, where he 
was engaged in mercantile business until 
1830 ; he "then went to Millersburg, and was 
there a successful merchant until his death, 
November 6, 1835. Mr. Bowman was first 
married, in 1794, to a daughter of Isaac 
Ferree, whose farm adjoined that of his 
father. Their children were : Eliza. Maria, 
George, and Josiah, who married Elizabeth 
Rutter. Mr. and Mrs. Josiah Bowman were 
the parents of Frank S. Bowman, attorney- 
at-law, at present postmaster at Millersburg 
and editor and proprietor of the Millersburg 
Sentinel. Mr. John F. Bowman was married, 
the second time, in 1805, to Frances, daugh- 
ter of John Crossen, born August 13, 1786. 
Their children were : John J.; Levi ; Louisa ; 
Isaac ; Mary F., wife of Rev. C. W. Jackson ; 
Lucinda, wife of Dr. Hiram Rutherford ; 
Jacob, Emeline, and Benjamin. Mr. Bow- 
man was a representative man in upper 
Dauphin county, in high repute for upright- 
ness and honesty ; quiet, but genial and 
much esteemed. He never sought or would 
accept any local or general office. His sec- 



1056 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ond wife died September 30, 1846, and lies 
interred beside her husband in Oak Hill 
cemetery, at Millersburg. John J. Bowman, 
father of Levi B. Bowman, was born Febru- 
ary 12, 1807, the day of the birth of Abra- 
ham Lincoln, and died August 13, 1894. 
He married Margaret, daughter of Simon 
and Jane (Woodside) Sallade, by whom he 
had ten children : Mary F., widow of Jeffer- 
son Black ; Jane E., wife of Prof. Charles S. 
Fahnestock, of Chester, Pa.; Lucinda, Dr. 
John F., Simon S., Levi B., Margaret Ann, 
and three children, triplets, who died in in- 
fancy. 

John Sallade, maternal great-grandfather 
of Levi B., one of the most distinguished 
pioneers of the upper end of Dauphin county, 
was of Huguenot descent, and was born at 
Basel-on-the-Rhine, in March, 1739. He 
came with other members of his family to 
America at an early date, and was one of the 
first settlers on the Wiconisco. He was blind 
for about ten years before his death, which 
occurred in November. 1827. He was mar- 
ried, February 8, 1771, to Margaret, daugh- 
ter of George Everheart, born in Berks 
county, Pa., in 1747. When a young girl 
Miss Everheart was made captive by the In- 
dians during one of their incursions into the 
territory east of the Susquehanna river, after 
the defeat of Braddock, in the fall of 1755. 
She was captured at a place near what is now 
Pine Grove, Schuylkill county, Pa., and was 
carried into the wilderness west of the Ohio 
river, where she remained a prisoner until 
General Forbes, by his skill and courage, 
broke the French power over that territory. 
She was then rescued and returned to her 
friends in Berks county, and lived to a ripe 
old age. John Sallade and his wife were 
the parents of five sons and two daughters, 
Simon being next to the youngest child. 

Simon Sallade, maternal grandfather of 
Levi B., by his excellent character and dis- 
tinguished public services, made his name 
well known to all the citizens of Dauphin 
county. He was born near Gratz, Dauphin 
county, March 7, 1785 ; son of John Sallade. 
Owing to the lack of schools in his day and 
place, he was obliged to depend on parental 
instruction, but being an apt pupil he early 
mastered the main branches of a good edu- 
cation. . Like Abraham Lincoln, he read and 
re-read the few books that fell into his hands 
and made their contents his own. He was 
also greatly assisted, when near manhood, 
by a private instructor employed by himself 



and other young men of the neighborhood. 
Mr. Sallade learned the trade of millwright 
with Jacob Berkstresser, of Bellefonte, and 
designed and built many of the old mills 
within thirty or forty miles of his residence. 
He was self-reliant and social, energetic and 
industrious, thoroughly upright and reliable, 
and became one of the most popular men of 
the region. Brought into contact with all 
kinds and classes of people, in social life 
and in business relations, he naturally be- 
came warmly interested in public matters, 
and especially in those of a political nature, 
and was in consequence drawn into public 
life; not, however, as a professional poli- 
tician, but as one seeking to promote the 
general welfare. He was always a loyal 
Democrat, but never a partisan, and when 
nominated for office made his appeal to the 
people and not to the party. He was four 
times the nominee of his party for the State 
Legislature, and was three times elected, al- 
though the majority in the county was with 
the opposite party, and the single instance 
of his defeat resulted from the clear and 
honest expression of his opposition to the en- 
actment of the Maine liquor law in 1853, 
when the candidate opposed to him was 
able to " trim " on the issue. Mr. Sallade 
served in the State Legislature during the 
sessions of 1819-20, 1836-37 and in 1853, in 
all of which he was a prominent and in- 
fluential member. He was the author of 
what is popularly termed the " Wiconisco 
Feeder Bill," and to his advocacy and influ- 
ence, exerted with zeal and skill, that meas- 
ure so important to the material interests of 
the upper end of Dauphin county owes its 
passage. Through the outlet provided by 
this improvement, the Lykens Valley coal 
fields were developed. Mr. Sallade was su- 
perintendent of the construction of the Wic- 
onisco canal, receiving his appointment 
from the canal commissioners. 

Simon Sallade died at the old homestead 
near Elizabethville, November 8, 1854, and 
is interred in the village graveyard at tha 
place. His wife was Jane, daughter of John 
Woodside, of Lykens Valley ; she died Sep- 
tember 3, 1854, and is buried in the same 
graveyard. They had eight children : Mar- 
garet, married John J. Bowman, of Millers- 
burg; Ann, married Edward Bickel ; Jane, 
married Daniel K. Smith ; Simon, Jacob, 
John, George, and Joseph. The story of the 
life of Simon Sallade is a familiar one in 
Lykens Valley. His sociability, hospitality, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1057 



humor, honesty and generous charity are 
still talked about, and form a part of the 
traditional local history, in which his name 
is mentioned with grateful recollection of 
his goodness and just recognition of his 



greatness 



Levi B. Bowman came with his parents 
to Millersburg in 1847, where he took the 
usual course of instruction in the public 
schools. From early youth he had assisted 
his uncle, Levi Bowman, in his store; and 
at the age of twenty he engaged with that 
gentleman in a regular apprenticeship to his 
trade of tinsmithing. He was associated 
during his uncle's lifetime with his interests 
and afterwards succeeded him in the busi- 
ness, which he has successfully conducted 
up to the present time. 



Ditty, Joseph Franklin, was the son of 
John and Catherine (Wood side) Ditty. David 
Ditty, his paternal grandfather, married 
Anna Osmor.d, by whom he had six chil- 
dren : Andrew, John, Joseph, Mary, and 
David ; all are deceased excepting Joseph. 
John Ditty, father of Joseph F., was born at 
Millersburg, and removed to Elizabethville, 
where he engaged in mercantile business. 
He was a candidate for the office of justice 
of the peace at Elizabethville, on an inde- 
pendent ticket, was elected by a large ma- 
jority, and re-elected for several terms, being- 
recognized as an efficient and conscientious 
public servant. He removed to Millersburg 
in I860, and died January 6, 1861, aged 
forty-eight years, eight months and sixteen 
days. His wife Catherine was a daughter 
of Thomas and Mary (Yeager) Woodside ; 
she is also deceased. They had seven chil- 
dren : William Theodore, married Miss 
Lydia Houpt, served in the United States 
army for nine months ; re-enlisted and 
served three years ; was taken prisoner and 
confined in Libby prison and at Anderson- 
ville for over eleven months, and liberated 
at the close of the war ; was promoted to 
corporal and then to sergeant ; Anna Mary 
received her education in the public schools 
of her native place ; Isabella, wife of Will- 
iam Dent ; John Peter, enlisted in company 
B, Twenty-sixth Illinois volunteer infantry, 
died in the hospital at Keokuk, Iowa, aged 
seventeen years ; Thomas Milton, married 
Rebecca Taylor, also served in the United 
States army over two years ; Charles Fred- 
erick, died aged about twenty-four years ; 
and Joseph Franklin. 



Joseph Franklin Ditty served an appren- 
ticeship of two and a half years at mould- 
ing, with Foster; Savidge & Co., and worked 
at the trade as a journeyman for a short 
time. Later he was occupied with various 
kinds of work. He is at present in the retail 
tobacco business in Millersburg. He resides 
with his sister, Anna Mary, and they occupy 
a beautiful modern dwelling in that town. 
Mr. Ditty is a member of Castle No. 332, 
K. of G. E., at Millersburg. His political 
views are Democratic. His sister and he 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Thomas Woodside, maternal grandfather 
of Mr. Ditty, was a soldier in the war of 
1812. He married Mary Yeager, and their 
children were : Jacob, married Hannah Rum- 
berger ; John, married Mary M. Lark ; Leah, 
wife of Henry Straub ; Daniel, married 
Hannah Buffington ; Catherine, wife of John 
Ditty ; Joseph, married Hetty Laird ; Mar- 
garet, wife of Joseph Schnell ; Mary, wife of 
Jairus Mason ; Thomas Jefferson, married 
the widow of A. M. Johnson. 



Kline, George W., carpet manufacturer, 
was born October 20, 1852, in the old stone 
house on the eastern outskirts of Millersburg, 
Dauphin county, Pa., formerly occupied by 
Dr. Haeseller, now of Schuylkill county, and 
afterward the residence of Mr. Kline's parents, 
Henry L. and Christiana (Rasweiler) Kline. 
The Rasweiler family are now of Chicago. 
Henry L. Kline was born in a small interior 
town of Prussia, June 19, 1809, and at five 
years of age he lost both his parents. He 
was thrown among strangers, and when only 
nine years old was employed in a damask 
factory ; there he learned weaving, and was 
permitted to enjoy a few months' instruction 
in the public school. The factory was a 
noted one, and had business connections with 
prominent and titled people and historic lo- 
calities, which, as a deliverer of goods, he 
was permitted to visit; but these privileges 
did not charm Henry, for his heart was fixed 
on the " land of the free." Against the earn- 
est protest of his friends he set out for 
America in 1846, and after a tempestuous 
voyage of over three months landed at 
New Orleans. There he worked three months 
on a sugar plantation, after which he went 
to Cincinnati, and thence to Pittsburgh. 
From that point he traveled on foot to Phila- 
delphia, afterwards by way of Pottsville to 
Orwigsburg, where he found permanent em- 
ployment at carpet weaving. 



1058 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



In January, 1848, Mr. Kline came to 
Millersburg, and embarked in the business 
of carpet manufacturing on his own account. 
So excellent were the materials and the work- 
manship of his products that his carpets soon 
gained a wide reputation, bringing orders 
from far and near', and making him a busy 
and prosperous man. A successful career of 
thirty-five years netted him a comfortable 
competency, and advancing age admonished 
him to retire ; consequently, in 1883, Mr. 
Kline disposed of his interests to his son, 
George W., and the Rev. H. A. Neitz, who 
formed a partnership under the name of 
Kline & Neitz, and continued the business. 
Up to the time of his death Mr. Kline 
cherished the greatest interest and pride in 
the large and flourishing enterprise which 
he had founded. He was always an indus- 
trious worker at the loom, and it has been es- 
timated that the fabrics woven by his hands, 
if stretched at length, would reach from 
Millersburg to Philadelphia, a distance of 
one hundred and thirty-two miles. A short 
time before his last illness, having finished a 
piece, retired from the loom, remarking to 
his son that he would rest a week ; but the 
final rest came. His wife, with whom he 
had lived happily for thirty -seven years, had 
preceded him, having passed away Septem- 
ber 17, 1847. 

Since 1847 Mr. Kline had been a member 
of Evangelical church of Millersburg, and 
had served in the several offices of the con- 
gregation. He was urbane and cordial in 
his manner, and of kindly disposition, up- 
right and pure in character and life ; an 
embodiment of the virtues of the Christian 
gentleman. Mrs. Kline was born in Meders- 
heim, Germany, September 2, 1814, and 
emigrated to this country in 1841 in company 
with her brother, Henry Rasweiler. They 
located in Allentown, Pa., later removing to 
Orwigsburg. She was married to Mr. Kline 
April 28, 1848, by Rev. John Koehl. For 
forty-five years she was a faithful member 
of the Evangelical church, a devout Christian 
woman. In her last illness she endured great 
suffering, which she bore with exemplary 
courage and cheerful resignation. Mr. and 
Mrs. Kline had seven children, of whom 
John, Joanna, Amelia, and two others died 
in infancy. Their living children are: George 
W. and Mary Elizabeth. 

George W. Kline received his first instruc- 
tion in the old school house on the banks of 



Wiconisco creek ; he was afterwards a pupil 
in the borough schools until he was about 
fifteen years old, during which time he as- 
sisted his , father in his business between 
school terms, and in this way learned the 
art of carpet weaving. He worked dili- 
gently and faithfully for his father until he 
reached his majority, when his father re- 
warded him by giving him an interest in 
his factory and trade. The father and son 
were associated until 1883, when the father 
retired and sold his interest to Rev. Mr. 
Neitz, and the firm of Kline & Neitz was 
founded. This firm continued the business 
for five years, when the Kline & Neitz Com- 
pany took charge of the enterprise. The 
corporation was not prosperous, and failed 
in 1893; the concern was sold, and Mr. 
Kline bought the retail department and 
machinery connected with it and conducted 
the retail business for two years. In 1895 
he sold the retail department to R. 0. Nov- 
inger & Co. and became the successor of the 
corporation, the manufacturing department 
now being known as the George W. Kline 
Company. 

Mr. Kline was married, August 17, 1878, 
to Mary Saville, daughter of George W. and 
Catherine (Rhodes) Kramer. They have 
six children: Velma Catherine, born July 3, 
1883, died May 17, 1884; Nora Elizabeth, 
born March 19, 1879 ; Emma, born Novem- 
ber 11, 1880; George Henry, born August 
1, 1885 ; Juanita Adelia, born December 5, 
1888 ; Robert Kramer, born July 24, 1893. 

Mr. Kline is a Republican. He has served 
as school director, and was re-elected to that 
office in 1896. He is identified with the 
Masonic fraternity, having passed through 
all the chairs in Susquehanna Lodge at 
Millersburg ; he is also a member of Perse- 
verance Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., at Millersburg. 
Mr. Kline is a member of the United Evan- 
gelical church at Millersburg, has been a 
trustee* for eighteen years, and for the same 
period, excepting one year, has been secre- 
tary of the board of trustees. 

Both the parents of Mrs. Kline are living. 
They have eight children : Mary Saville, 
Mrs. Kline ; Carson S., Emma, Alice, Harry, 
Elizabeth, Minnie, and one child that died 
in infancy. George W. Kramer and his 
brothers, up to 1880, conducted the old 
Kramer ferry, opposite Millersburg, estab- 
lished by their father, David Kramer, 
shortly after the year 1800. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1059 



.Bowers, George Washington, retired, 
was born in Halifax township, February 22, 
1815; son of John and Margaret (Weaver) 
Bowers. His parents had nine children: 
Michael, John, Jacob, Martin, Adam, 
Joseph, George W., Elizabeth, wife of Henry 
Hahn, and one child who died in infancy. 

George W. Bowers lost his father when 
he was eight years old, and went forth 
among strangers to find a home. He was 
brought up by Isaac Kinter, a farmer in 
Middle Paxton township, with whom he 
remained until he was twenty, during 
which time he received a limited education 
in the township schools. At the age of 
twenty he left his guardian and came to 
Millersburg, where he was employed by his 
brother Michael for about six years. After 
this he was engaged in various occupations 
until his marriage. He then returned to 
his brother's employ, and was with him for 
three years, after which he was for some 
time engaged in different places and at 
various occupations. On August 6, 1881, 
Mr. Bowers met with a serious accident on 
the Lykens Valley railroad, from the effects 
of which he was so disabled as to have been 
disqualified, since that time, for any kind of 
work. 

Mr. Bowers was married, at Millersburg, 
February 11, 1838, to Mary, daughter of 
Daniel and Mary (Wingert) Miller, born 
November 25, 1820. They have had six chil- 
dren: Mary Elizabeth, born November 3, 
1838, died September 19, 1842; Margaret 
Louisa, born September 7, 1840, died May 
28, 1847; John Kinter, born April 28, 1845, 
died September 19, 1850; George W, Jr., 
twin brother of John Kinter; Sarah Ellen, 
born February 3, 1850 ; Emma Pierce, born 
February 21, 1853. Mrs. Bowers died 
March 16, 1893. Mr. Bowers is a Democrat. 
He has served two terms as constable in 
Upper Paxton township. The family at- 
tend the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Daniel Miller, father of Mrs. Bowers, was 
the founder of Millersburg. He came, with 
his brother John, from Lancaster county, 
Pa., about 1790, and took up some four 
hundred acres of land, including the site of 
the present town, where a settlement was 
begun probably in 1794. The town was 
laid out in lots in 1807. An act incorpor- 
ating the borough of Millersburg was 
passed by the State Legislature April 8, 
1850. The first settlers of this region were 
Huguenots. Francis Jacques, or Jacobs, as 



anglicized, resided some time at Halifax, 
but later located here, where he had taken 
up several acres. Among other early 
settlers here appear the names of Klein, 
Larue (Leroi), Sharra or Joerg, Wertz, 
Stoever, and Shuetts. Daniel Miller was 
the first school teacher in the vicinitj 7 , and 
was instrumental in establishing and build- 
ing the first Methodist Episcopal church at 
this place. Mr. Miller had three children 
by his first marriage: John, Daniel, and 
Elizabeth. His second marriage, in 1817, 
was with Mary Wingert; they had one 
child, Mary, who became Mrs. Bowers. 



Day, Charles W.. broom manufacturer, 
was born in Shrewsbury, York county, Pa., 
April 4, 1864; son of Jackson and Jane 
(Beck) Day. His grandfather, Levi Day, 
married Delilah Downs, by whom he had 
eight children : Sarah, born June 30, 1823 ; 
Marv J., born Februarv 11, 1826 ; Jackson, 
July 30, 1828; Amos", August 22, 1831; 
Hannah F., February 18, 1835 ; Henrietta, 
March 11, 1838 ; E. Henry, May 4, 1841, 
and Enoch, December 1, 1844. Jackson Day 
was married, August 3, 1845, to Jane, daugh- 
ter of John and Margaret Beck. Mr. and 
Mrs. Day had eight children: James, born 
August 2, 1849, married Catherine E. Ward, 
who died March 19, 1874 ; Noah, born May 1, 
1851, married Mary Alda Gilbert, who died 
August 28, 1876 ; Levi, born March 4, 1853, 
died April 6, 1853 ; Emma, born June 23, 
1854, died March 29,1862; John Newton, 
born April 23, 1856; Oliver, July 14, 1858; 
Eli, March 4, 1861 ; and Charles W. Mr. 
Jackson Day died March 5, 1893. 

Charles W. Day was four years of age 
when his parents removed to Millersburg, 
where he was educated in the public schools, 
attending part of each year until he was 
nineteen. For the next two years he was 
hard at work learning broom making, and 
at the age of twenty-one was ready to begin 
business on his own account. He opened a 
shop and by the diligent pursuit of his call- 
ing succeeded in establishing a large and 
profitable business, to the management of 
which he has given his attention up to the 
present time. Mr. Day was married, Sep- 
tember 29, 1891, to Ella E., daughter of Ed- 
ward and Agnes (Bowman) Steever, born 
March 4, 1873. They have one child, Steever 
Kaymond, born January 24, 1894. Mr. Day 
is a Republican. He is a member of Syrian 
Commandery, No. 133, K. of M., at Millers- 



1060 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



burg. The family attend the Methodist 
Episcopal church. Mr. Day is regarded 
as one of the enterprising and solid busi- 
ness men of the town, and contributes his 
full share to the general prosperity of 
the community. Mr. and Mrs. Edward 
Steever, the parents of Mrs. Day, had two 
children : Ruth, died at about three years 
of age, and Ella E., Mrs. Day. 



Walborn, Levi, retired farmer, was born 
near Millersburg, Upper Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., July 24, 1858 ; son of 
Henry and Barbara (Lebo) Walborn. Henry 
Walborn, who was a son of Daniel Walborn, 
was born October 17, 1817, and died January 
9, 1868. His wife, Barbara Lebo, was born 
April 4, 1823, and died August 8, 1895. Their 
children were: Sophia, born November 24, 
1848, died March 12, 1859 ; Uriah, born Feb- 
ruary 17, 1855, died April 3, 1859; Abraham, 
born June 8, 1854, died March 24, 1866 ; 
Henry L., born April 22, 1844; Lavinia, 
born August 24, 1856, wife of Joseph Hen- 
ninger ; Jeremiah E. } born November 24, 
1S60. 

Levi Walborn in early boyhood attended 
the public school, but his father dying when 
the boy was but ten years old, his help on 
the farm was so needed that for the next five 
years he had only an occasional winter's 
term at school. After he was fifteen he was 
for some years hired out among the farmers. 
Finally he went West as far as Nebraska in 
search of profitable employment and a good 
locality for farming. Not finding any place 
in the West that suited him, he returned to 
Dauphin county, and purchased of Rev. 
Joseph Young a farm of one hundred and 
twelve acres, in Upper Paxton township, 
upon which he began farming on his own 
account, and continued there six years, af- 
ter which he bought the Jesse Seal farm, 
near Millersburg, containing thirty -two acres. 
The fine improvements, excellent condition, 
and attractive appearance of Mr. Walborn's 
farms show him to be a skillful husbandman 
and an enterprising business man. In 1887 
he removed to his farm near Millersburg, 
where he lived three years, and then pur- 
chased the modern dwelling in Millersburg 
in which he now resides. 

Mr. Walborn was married, February 2, 
1882, to Sarah Agnes, daughter of Jesse and 
Caroline (Beard) Seal, born June 23, 1859. 
They have seven children : Charles L., born 
May 6, 1883 ; Jesse Blaine, born June 5, 



1884, died December 24, 1891 ; Elmer E., 
born November 9, 1885 ; George Mark, born 
December 29, 1886 ; Roscoe Irvin, born May 
30, 189 L ; Lottie Irene, born Januarj r 25, 
1893 ; Florence Mabel, born February 20, 
1894 ; died September 20, 1894. Mr. Wal- 
born holds Republican views; he is at pres- 
ent serving his second term in the town 
council. He is a member in good standing 
in Commandery, No. 133, K. of M., at Millers- 
burg. The family attend Grace United 
Evangelical church. 

Jesse Seal, father of Mrs. Walborn, was 
born February 20, 1806 ; son of George and 
Margaret- (Steever) Seal, and died March 20, 
1882. His wife, Caroline Beard, was born 
December 18, 1831, and she survives him. 
They had three children : Ira B., died May 
7, 1885 ; Charles F., born October 1, 1856 ; 
and Sarah Agnes, Mrs. Walborn. 

What a bright and honest boy can do 
when thrown upon Ids own resources is 
shown in the life of Mr. Walborn. He began 
at the age of fifteen, with little aid of money 
or influential friends at the start, but gradu- 
ally winning both by his prudent course. 



Musser, John S., foundryman and ma- 
chinist, was born in Fairview township, 
York county, Pa., May 9, 1827, and is a son 
of Benjamin and Frances (Snavely) Musser. 
Benjamin Musser, Sr., great-grandfather of 
John S. Musser, died November 12, 1820, 
aged seventy-one years, four months and 
thirteen days. He was the father of three 
sons and four daughters. His son, Dr. John 
Musser, was married, November 13, 1799, 
to Elizabeth Neff. Benjamin Musser, son 
of Dr. John and father of John S. Musser, 
was married, January 20, 1825, to Frances 
Snavely, of East Pennsboro township. They 
had fifteen children: Elizabeth, born Janu- 
ary 8, 1826, wife of Josiah Seal; John S.; 
Henry D., born December 20, 1828, married 
Ellen Rupley; Benjamin, born December 
21, 1830, married Susan Muench ; Catherine, 
born October 1, 1832, wife of Benneville 
Boyer; Anna L., born April 13, 1834, wife 
of Isaac Lloyd ; Jacob, born November 5, 
1835; Joseph R., born February 7, 1837, 
married ; Levi, born March 15, 1838 ; David, 
born January 9, 1839, married Susan Coble ; 
Daniel, born September 3, 1840; Hiram, 
born November 29, 1841 ; Jeremiah, born 
April 9, 1843 ; Sarah, born April 19, 1847; 
Josiah A., born July 29, 1849, married. 




Artr 




DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1063 



John S. Musser's parents removed to 
Cumberland county, Pa., when he was six 
years old. He attended the subscription 
schools there during the sessions of 1833-34, 
after which, the family removing to the 
vicinity of Millersburg, he attended the sub- 
scription school of that borough, entering 
the public schools after they were established 
in the town. In the meantime he gave a 
good share of his time to the assistance of 
his father on the farm until he was seven- 
teen years old ; after that he was wholly em- 
ployed in farm work until he became of 
age. His father then employed him on 
wages as a regular farm hand until 1851, 
at which time the farm was sold to James 
Freeland, from whom Mr. Musser rented it 
and began farming on his own account. 
He continued there for fourteen years, then 
relinquished farming, and in 1865 returned 
to Millersburg. During 1865-66 Mr. Mus- 
ser was engaged in contracting. After com- 
pleting his contract he embarked in the 
foundry and machine business at Millers- 
burg, associating with himself Seth Schreiber, 
under the firm name of Musser & Schreiber. 
They were successful in establishing a large 
business and continued the partnership un- 
til 1889, when it was dissolved by the death 
of Mr. Schreiber. Mr. Musser carried on 
the business until 1895, when it was sold in 
order to effect the settlement of the estate, 
and Mr. Musser engaged in plumbing, which 
is his present occupation. 

Mr. Musser was married, January 20, 
1848, to Elmira, daughter of Daniel and 
Hannah (Ferree) Hoffman, born January 19, 
1830. They have six children : Frances E., 
wife of William Kahler, born February 3, 
1849 ; Sarah A., born August 9, 1851 ; Henry 
A., born July 3, 1853, died May 17,1873; 
Annie K., born September 19, 1857, wife of 
James L. Meek ; Laura V., born November 
18, 1859 ; George A., born November 6, 1861, 
married. Mrs. Musser died November 17, 
1890. She was well known for her generous 
kindness and hospitality, and was an earnest 
and devout Christian woman, zealous in all 
good works, especially industrious in the up- 
building of the church. 

Mr. Musser was active and influential in 
organizing and incorporating the Oak Hill 
Cemetery Association, of which he is one of 
the directors. Mr. Musser was formerly a 
Whig, and is now a staunch Republican. 
He takes a deep interest in all public busi- 
ness. In 1858 he was elected county com- 
66 



missioner of Dauphin county for three 
years. He was the only Republican in the 
board until Mr. Beam was elected in 1859. 
Mr. Musser was an earnest advocate of the 
plan of building a new court house, and to 
his wise and energetic support of the project 
its success is largely due. He has served 
several terms as burgess of Millersburg, and 
in other borough offices. In 1894 he was 
elected justice of the peace, and has filled 
numerous township offices. Mr. Musser be- 
longs to Syrian Commandery, No. 133, A. 
0. of K. of M., at Millersburg. He is a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal church. 
Mr. Musser is now enjoying the fruits of his 
honorable business activity in earlier years, 
and he is surrounded by those who cordially 
wish him long life and happiness. 



Frank, Henry, carpenter and contractor, 
was born in Upper Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., January 19, 1824 ; son of 
John and Elizabeth (Meek) Frank. His pa- 
ternal great-grandfather, whose surname was 
Neighbor, was of Huguenot descent. He 
owned the mill and water power where the 
electric light plant of Millersburg now 
stands. His famity consisted of four daugh- 
ters, one of whom was married to John 
Frank, another to David Frank, and the 
other two daughters married brothers by the 
name of Sandoe. John Frank, father of 
Henry Frank, was born in Upper Paxton 
township, October 20, 1796, and died Octo- 
ber 12, 1870. His wife, Elizabeth Meek, 
was born in 1800, and died in May, 1857. 
They had four children: George W., married 
Elizabeth Hoover, and had seven children; 
Henry; Nathaniel and Catherine, twins; 
Nathaniel died in infancy, but Catherine is 
still living; she married Henry Knouff, and 
was left a widow with two children, John 
and Frank. Mr. John Frank served as a sol- 
dier in the war of 1812 under Captain Fetter- 
hoff and Colonel Ritchie. He was among the 
militia drafted in 1814. Mr. John Meek, 
maternal grandfather of Henry Frank, was 
of German ancestry, and was a prominent 
farmer and miller in Upper Paxton town- 
ship. He had four children besides Elizabeth, 
who became Mrs. Frank. 

Henry Frank first attended the neighbor- 
ingsubscription schools, and wassubsequently 
a pupil in the public schools. He worked 
with his father at various occupations until 
1840, when he went to Millersburg to learn 
carpentry with John Frank, his father's 



1064 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



cousin. He remained there until August of 
the same year, when he went to Harrisburg, 
and became an apprentice to the same trade 
with Alexander Hamilton and Jacob Reed. 
After an apprenticeship of three years he 
was employed by Mr. Hamilton as a journey- 
man, from the month of August until the 
following May. He then returned to his native 
town and began business as carpenter on his 
own account. The first house he built is the 
one in which he now resides. He also built the 
large house on the corner of Union and Race 
streets, the present residence of Hon. Mr. 
Bowman. Among other important structures 
erected by him are the large building on the 
northeast corner of Market and Center 
streets, now used as a store and halls; the 
parsonage of the Methodist Episcopal church, 
and other buildings. Mr. Frank was actively 
engaged as a practical builder until 1875, 
and later erected a number of large buildings 
in Millersburg. 

Mr. Frank was largely influential in the 
establishment of the Millersburg Bank, was 
one of the original stockholders, and has been 
and is at present one of the directors of the 
bank. He was also actively interested in the 
establishment of the Millersburg Agricultural 
Works, of which he became the treasurer in 
1886. Politically he is a Democrat. He has 
served as burgess and filled other borough 
offices, the most important of which is that 
of school director; he was in the board for 
six consecutive years, and at a later time 
served a term of three years, filling the office 
of president for five years, and serving one 
year as treasurer. 

Mr. Frank was married, February 11, 1S51, 
to Mary B., daughter of John and Elizabeth 
(Light) Eberly. Two of their six children 
are deceased : Laura, born February 25, 1852, 
died July 6, 1882 ; Mary E., born May 31, 
1856, died April 6, 1857. Their living chil- 
dren are - Simon P., born October 19, 1853; 
John N., May 1, 1858, married Sarah Wom- 
baugh, who died September 26, 1895, had two 
children, Maud W. and James T.; Emma 
E., December 9, 1861 ; Miriam D., January 
7, 1869. Mr. Frank joined Perseverance 
Lodge, No. 183, I. 0. 0. F., at Millersburg, in 
1849, and in point of seniority is the third on 
the list of its members. He and his family 
are members of the Methodist church. Mr. 
Frank began business at the bottom round of 
the ladder, and has by ability and persever- 
ance climbed it rung by rung. He has in all 
his course been self-reliant and persistent, 



wisely depending on his own resources and 
always putting forth his best efforts. He may 
enjoy his accumulated competency with the 
utmost satisfaction, and take great pleasure in 
the respect and good will accorded him by 
his neighbors. 

John Eberly,fatherof Mrs. Frank, was born 
November 21, 1799, and died January 22, 
1875. His wife died in 1842. They were the 
parents of two sons and five daughters. 



Kramer, George W., ferryman, was born 
at Millersburg, Dauphin county, Pa., corner 
of North and Water streets, August 12, 1829 ; 
son of David and Sophia Kramer, both de- 
ceased. 

George W. Kramer was first taught in the 
subscription schools of his town, and later 
attended the public schools at Millersburg. 
It was, however, only in the winter that he 
could take time to secure an education, for 
at other seasons his father needed his as- 
sistance on the farm, and he was always a 
willing and capable helper. At the age of 
sixteen his school days were ended and a 
change came in his occupation. By pur- 
chasing at sheriff's sale, December 3, 1825, 
his father acquired possession of the ferry, 
for which he paid the sum- of $98. George 
was now old enough to be a valuable as- 
sistant to his father on the boat, and was 
from that time steadily employed in this 
way. Finally, in 1859, George W. and his 
brother, Joseph E. Kramer, succeeded their 
father in the ownership of the ferry, which 
they conducted jointly until 1880. George 
W. Kramer then sold his interest and has 
since been in various occupations. 

Mr. Kramer was married, December 29, 
1859, to Catherine, daughter of Jacob and 
Sarah (Noll) Rhoads. Their children are: 
Sarali Emma ; Samuel Carson, married Eliz- 
abeth Forney ; Susan Alice ; Harry Irvin, 
married Ole Greenawalt, and has three chil- 
dren : Charlotte Catherine, George Henry, 
and Edward; Ira, died March 27, 1869; 
Lizzie Ettie; Minnie Myrtle; Mary Savilla, 
wife of George W. Kline. 

Mr. Kramer is a Republican and has 
served one term as supervisor of the borough. 
The family attend the Grace United Evan- 
gelical church. 



Seal, John Benjamin, first saw the light 
of day on the 1st day of March, 1847. He 
was born and brought up on a farm in 
Upper Paxton township, one mile northeast 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1065 



of Millersburg, on the same premises where 
both his father and grandfather lived all 
their lives. He had a natural fondness for 
study and was a regular attendant at the 
district school during the winter months 
when his services were not required on the 
farm. His advantages for education were 
limited, but he managed to attend a private 
school for several terms in addition to an 
average of about three months in the year 
at public school until he arrived at the age 
of eighteen when he began teaching. He 
followed the profession seven years, at the 
same time pursuing his studies at the Mil- 
lersville State Normal School. He taught 
three terms in his native district, had charge 
of the grammar department of the public 
schools of Millersburg, and was for one term 
principal of the high school. He also organ- 
ized a private school, known as the West 
Bangor Select School, in York county, and 
laid the foundation for a nourishing private 
institution of learning which has since sent 
forth into the world many young men and 
women who nOw occupy prominent positions 
in life, including all the professions. In the 
fall of 1872 Mr. Seal abandoned teaching and 
engaged in the printing and stationery busi- 
ness in Millersburg. Two years later he 
established the Millersburg Herald, of which 
he is still editor and publisher. With regard 
to his newspaper project, although it is not 
the financial success which his efforts war- 
ranted, he has the satisfaction of knowing 
that its influence has been potent for good 
in the community and has proved one of the 
most effective agencies in promoting the 
best interests of the town, commercially, in- 
tellectually, and morally. In public affairs, 
politics, and questions of local interest the 
Herald has always taken advanced positions ; 
it has been a fearless exponent of true prin- 
ciples and a consistent advocate of its con- 
victions. 

Mr. Seal is a descendant of a line of an- 
cestry distinguished for industry, frugality 
and sterling integrity, and having been 
reared on the farm he had abundant oppor- 
tunity to develop those qualities inherited 
from his forefathers. His great-grandfather, 
Henry Seal, was one of those sons whose 
father was among the pioneers of Lykeus 
Valley, having settled there when wild beasts 
inhabited its primeval forests and the In- 
dians had possession of the land. Henry 
Seal was born October 16, 1770, and died 
December 21, 1827. His wife Catherine 



was born April 7, 1779, and died May 29, 
1842. Both are buried at David's Reformed 
church, near Killinger, where also repose 
the remains of J. Benjamin Seal's grand- 
parents on the paternal side. John H. Seal, 
the grandfather of John Benjamin, was born 
March 14, 1797, and died January 12, 1877. 
He was one of a large family of children, 
nearly all of whom emigrated to what was 
then known as the far West, locating in Ohio, 
Wisconsin, Illino : s, Missouri and Kansas, 
their offspring being scattered now through 
all parts of the Union. He remained on the 
old homestead and reared a family of twelve 
children, being twice married. Four chil- 
dren survive: Sallie, married to Uriah 
Miller; Katie A., Daniel, and John W. He 
died at the ripe age of seventy-seven years, 
all of which he spent on the same farm. 

Josiah Seal, father of John Benjamin, was 
born May 5, 1820, and died March 9, 1892. 
He was married to Elizabeth Musser, daugh- 
ter of Benjamin and Frances Musser, the 
oldest of a family of sixteen children, of 
whom Catherine, wife of Bemieville Boyer ; 
Anna L., wife of Isaac Lloyd ; and John S., 
Henry D., Joseph R., and Josiah A. Musser 
survive. The mother, Elizabeth (Musser) 
Seal, was born January 8, 1826, and died 
August 13, 1889. This happy union of over 
forty years was blessed with six children : 
Frances L., married to Addison J. Haver- 
stick ; John B.; Emma V., married to H. 
Frank Sheetz; and George L.; these are 
living. Sarah A. and James A. died in their 
youth, Sarah at the age of sixteen, and 
James aged nineteen. Mrs. Elizabeth Seal 
sprang from a large and influential Cumber- 
land county family. John Benjamin Seal 
was named for his grandfather, John H. 
Seal, and Benjamin Musser. He was united 
in marriage to Bertha Adilla Freck, Decem- 
ber 23, 1879. Two children are the fruits of 
this marriage: Esther Lucretia, aged fifteen, 
and Eugene Freck, aged thirteen. 

He has always taken an active interest in 
public affairs. His voice and pen are ever 
ready to assist in every enterprise or move- 
ment intended to promote the welfare of 
private individuals or for the public good. 
He is a useful member of society, and a 
faithful member of the Methodist church. 
His profession has naturally brought him 
into public prominence. In 1884 he was 
nominated by the Republicans of Dauphin 
county for the Pennsylvania Legislature, 
and in November of that year was elected to 



1066 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



that office by a large majority. At the ex- 
piration of his term of office he returned to 
his editorial work, and on the 9th day of 
February, 1891, was commissioned postmas- 
ter of Millersburg for a term of four years by 
President Harrison, in recognition of his 
political services and at the request of his 
fellow-townsmen. At the February election 
in 1896 he was elected a member of the 
Millersburg school board, and is now presi- 
dent of that body. 



Holtzman, David K., retired farmer, was 
born near Berrysburg, Mifflin township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., November 26, 1836; 
son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Koppen- 
haver) Holtzman. His grandfather, George 
Holtzman, married Elizabeth Lebo. Their 
children are : Peter, never married, died 
aged seventy-six years; John, died aged 
eighty-one, was twice married, and had one 
child, Sarah, who died aged sixty-one or 
sixty-two; his second wife was Elizabeth 
Weaver, and they had seven children; Jona- 
than ; Jacob, died aged twenty-five years; 
Maria, married Jonathan Novinger, had six 
children ; Sallie, married Philip Lenker, 
had six sons and six daughters ; and Eliza- 
beth, married Daniel Haak, had four sons 
and one daughter. Mr. George Holtzman 
died aged about sixty-seven years, and his 
wife died aged about seventy-eight. Jona- 
than Holtzman, father of David K., died 
in 1881. He had a family of five children: 
Mary, married Isaac App, of Snyder county, 
Pa.; Jonathan B., died aged twenty -three 
years ; Edward, died aged two years ; David 
K.; and Elizabeth, wife of William Straub. 
Mr. Holtzman, in his second marriage, was 
united to Elizabeth, daughter of Peter and 
Elizabeth (Schwab) Weaver, of Mifflin town- 
ship; they had one child, Henry. 

David K. Holtzman attended the Mifflin 
township subscription schools until he was 
twelve years old, after which, until he was 
seventeen, he attended the public school. 
He then studied for two terms in the Semi- 
nary at Berrysburg, and by this course 
qualified himself for teaching. His first 
work as a teacher was done at Uniontown, 
in his native township, not far either from 
Berrysburg or from his home, where he had 
a school for three terms. During this time 
occurred the death of Mary, his wife. After 
this event he studied one term at the Selins- 
grove Seminary, and then resumed teaching 
at the old Fisher's schoolhouse in Monroe 



township, Snyder county, Pa.; he was en- 
gaged there for five consecutive terms, 
having by his skillful and successful man- 
agement of the school established a wide 
reputation as an able instructor. After this 
he removed to Anderson's Creek, Clearfield 
county, Pa., and entered the employ of 
Charles Blanchard in the capacity of book- 
keeper and lumber scaler. Pie was called 
from this position, after nine months' ser- 
vice, by the illness of his father, with whom 
he remained and carried on one of his 
farms for a year. He then bought the old 
homestead in Washington township, for- 
merly owned by his grandfather, George 
Holtzman, who was among the first settlers 
in Lykens Valley. In connection with his 
farming operations on the homestead Mr. 
Holtzman also sold agricultural implements 
in Dauphin and adjacent counties. In 1884 
he retired from active farming and removed 
to Millersburg, where, in the following year, 
he built the spacious and beautiful dwelling 
which has since that time been his resi- 
dence. In the same year, 1885, he engaged 
in the insurance business, in which he con- 
tinued until 1893. 

From the time that he was about twenty 
years of age until 1882 Mr. Holtzman gave 
instructions in vocal music, and became 
well and widely known as an able and suc- 
cessful teacher of that branch. Mr. Holtz- 
man was married to Mary, daughter of 
Aaron and Catherine (Schwenk) Mattis. 
Their children are : Emma L. and Charles 
Franklin. Mr. Holtzman was married again, 
December 25, 1874, to Maggie, daughter 
of David and Margaret Neagley. Their 
children are : Ottilia Corbula, born March 
13, 1876 ; Charles Franklin, married Sarah 
Koppenhaver, and has two children: May 
Edna, aged nine, and Grace, aged five years. 
Mr. Holtzman is a Democrat. He has served 
as school director of his native township for 
three consecutive years. The family attend 
the Lutheran church. 



Feidt, George, shoemaker and farmer, 
was born in Upper Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., June 7, 1832 ; son of John 
and Mary Ann (Will) Feidt. He bears the 
name of his great-grandfather, George Feidt, 
who came from England and settled in Up- 
per Paxton township; had issue: George, 
John, Abraham, and Peter Feidt. His eldest 
son, George Feidt, was born June 6, 1771, 
married Rachel Snyder, who was born Feb- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1067 



ruary 2, 1770; their children were: John, 
George, Daniel, Catherine, Peter, and Thomas. 
George Feidt(2), died August 30, 1829, and 
his wife April 25,1836. Their eldest son, 
John Feidt, father of George Feidt (3), was 
born August 18, 1798, and died November 
12, 1854, aged about fifty -five; his wife, Mary 
Ann Will, was born April 1, 1800, and died 
aged about seventy-three, on January 18, 
1874. They had five children: Sarah, wife 
of Jonas Wise ; Catherine, wife of Hiram 
Bulse; Elizabeth, wife of John Buffington; 
George, and Mary C. 

George Feidt was educated in the public 
schools of his native township, which he at- 
tended during part of each year until he at- 
tained the age of eighteen years, when he 
began to learn shoemaking with Abraham 
Snyder, at Berrysburg, Pa. Upon the com- 
pletion of an apprenticeship of two and a 
half years, he decided that his trade would 
not be the best occupation for him, and 
turned his attention to farming, taking a 
farm in Upper Paxton township which he 
cultivated for three years. For the ensuing 
years he resumed his trade and worked as a 
journeyman shoemaker. Finding the occu- 
pation agreeable and profitable, Mr. Feidt 
embarked in a business of his own, opening 
a shop in Upper Paxton township, where he 
carried on the business until he entered the 
United States army. 

He enlisted October 30, 1862, at Camp 
Curtin, Harrisburg, in company I, One Hun- 
dred and Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, Capt. Benjamin Evitts, Col. George 
B. Wiestling. Mr. Feidt served his term of 
enlistment and was discharged at Harris- 
burg, August 5, 1863, after which he went 
home and worked at his trade until the 
opening of the following year. He then de- 
termined to unite his two occupations of 
shoemaking and farming, and the results of 
the experiment were so satisfactory that he 
continued the plan for eleven years. At the 
end of that time he sold the farm, and gave 
his attention to the trade alone for the next 
five years. In 1880 he took up farming 
again, and continued in agricultural pur- 
suits until 1892, when he exchanged the 
farm for the homestead he now occupies, and 
retired from active business. 

Mr. Feidt was married, August 10, 1871, 
to Sarah, daughter of Michael and Rachel 
(Alleman) Barnhart. Mr. and Mrs. Feidt 
have no children. On January 14, 1891, 
the name of Mr. Feidt was enrolled on the 



honorable list of United States pensioners- 
Mr. Feidt is a Republican. He and his wife 
attend the Lutheran church. Mr Feidt is a 
quiet, unassuming man, always agreeable in 
manner, and always punctual in business, 
and faithful in all the relations of life. He 
is respected by his neighbors and is es- 
teemed as an excellent citizen and a consist- 
ent Christian. 



Johnson, Joseph M., contractor, was born 
at Pottsville, Schuylkill county, Pa., May 1, 
1847 ; son of John and Melvina (Freck) 
Johnson. His grandfather, John Johnson. 
Sr., had three children : Mary, Ann, and 
John. John Johnson, Jr., father of Joseph 
M. Johnson, was one of the first locomotive 
engineers on the Reading railroad, and met 
his death November 8, 1848, while in the 
employ of that company. During a strike 
his fireman was attacked by rioters, and, 
going to his rescue, Mr. Johnson received a 
blow from a stick of wood which inflicted 
upon him a fatal injury. His death occurred 
in his twenty-eighth year. His wife is still 
living. They had two children : Joseph M. 
and Mary ; the latter died at Millersburg, 
aged about nine years. Mrs. Johnson was 
married again, to S. H. Longabach. Their 
children are : Ella, born November 20, 1856, 
wife of Carson Jensen; Sophelia, born June 
5, 1858, wife of Frank Bowers ; Samuel New- 
ton, born July 17, 1859, married Lizzie 
Baker; John Luther, born November 22, 
1860, died aged nine months ; Emma Eliza- 
beth, born February 22, 1861, wife of Charles 
Seal ; Loretta Venona, born September 22, 
1863, wife of Harry Freeborn. 

Joseph M.Johnson lost his father when he 
was but eighteen months old, and was sent 
to his grandfather, Matthias Freck, who 
lived at Millersburg, Pa. There he was 
kindly cared for and reared, and was kept 
in the public schools of the place until he 
was twelve years of age. He was of much 
service to his mother, who married again 
after Mr. Johnson's death. In 1858, when 
he was but twelve, he started out to make 
his own living, not because he had no home, 
for there was room and employment for him 
both in his grandfather's and his mother's 
home ; but he was independent and self- 
reliant and preferred to be under obliga- 
tions to no one but himself. For the first 
two years he found employment with the 
Minehill Railroad Company, in Schujdkill 
county, making his home with his mother. 



1068 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



After this he was for one season a driver on 
the Schuylkill canal, from Pottsville to 
Philadelphia and New York ; he then re- 
turned to the employ of the Minehill Rail- 
road Company, in which he remained until 
September 10, 1862. 

At this date Mr. Johnson enlisted in the 
United States army, at Schuylkill Haven, in 
company K, One Hundred and Twenty- 
seventh Pennsylvania volunteers, under 
Captain Fox and Col. W. W. Jennings, 
of Harrisburg, for nine months. Dur- 
ing his term of enlistment he participated 
in the first battle of Fredericksburg, Chan- 
cellorsville, and other minor engagements, 
and was discharged from the service May 
29, 1863 ; he returned to his mother, then 
living at Gordon, Schuylkill county. After 
serving a short time in the Twenty-seventh 
cavalry company, State militia, he enlisted, 
February 1, 1864, in the three years' service, 
joining company F, One Hundred and Six- 
teenth Pennsylvania volunteers, under Capt. 
George Reber and Col. St. Clair Mulholland. 
During this term of service he took part in 
the battles of the Wilderness, lasting seven 
days ; Dodal's Tavern, Va.; Poe River, Va.; 
and Spottsylvania, where he was wounded 
by the fragment of a shell hj the explosion 
of which seven of his comrades were in- 
stantly killed. Mr. Johnson was discovered 
among the dead by a lieutenant of company 
G of his regiment, who rescued him from his 
exposed position and had him conveyed to 
the field hospital. He was disabled by this 
wound, and was detained in the hospital 
about three months; when discharged from 
the hospital he rejoined his regiment, then 
at City Point, Va. He was in the engage- 
ments before Petersburg up to the time of 
its surrender, and in all other fights up to 
the close of the war. 

After his discharge from the service Mr. 
Johnson went to Millersburg, Pa., whither 
Mr. and Mrs. Longabach had removed from 
Gordon. Here he entered the employ of H. 
C. Frick & Co. as a laborer, but by industry, 
skill and fidelity soon won promotion and 
was made superintendent of their working- 
men in Centre and Cameron counties, who 
were engaged in cutting and preparing their 
timber for shipment. He was in this posi- 
tion about four years, during which time he 
was greatly aided by his faithful wife, who 
kept house and took the lumbermen to 
boal'd, and in this way contributed no small 
amount to the family income. In 1873 Mr. 



Johnson bought Kramer's ferry, at Millers- 
burg, which he operated in his own indi- 
vidual right until 1877, when he disposed of 
it. His next enterprise was the manufacture 
of staves for nail kegs, at Millersburg, in 
which he continued up to 1885. He then 
sold his interest in the factory and returned 
to the superintendency of the lumber opera- 
tions of H. C. Frick & Co., in Cameron 
county. This engagement lasted only one 
year, at the end of which he returned to 
Millersburg and became interested in the 
manufacture of barrel staves. 

Some time after this Mr. Johnson took up 
the business of contracting,which he carried 
on alone until 1892. He then associated 
himself with the promoters and builders of 
water works, first at Millersburg, and subse- 
quently at Mifflintown, Patterson, Steelton, 
and Womelsdorf, Berks county ; he is at 
present active in the projection of similar 
improvements in other places. 

Joseph M. Johnson was married, Novem- 
ber 18, 1867, to Mary Ellen, daughter of 
David and Catherine (Bush) Etien. They 
have eight children: Harry William, born 
December 19, 1868, married Lizzie Douden, 
has one child, Ray Edison, born October 5, 
1895; Samuel Sylvester, born October 11, 
1871, married Carrie Hall; Mark Edgar, 
born November 27, 1873 ; John Newton, 
December 20, 1877 ; Mary Catherine E., No- 
vember 3, 1879 ; Luke Etien, December 4, 
1882; Joseph Mathias, June 10,1885; and 
Martha Melvina, September 14, 1888. 

Mr. Johnson is a Republican. The family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal church, ex- 
cept Mrs. Johnson, who worships with the 
Evangelical church. 

David Etien, father of Mrs. Johnson, died 
in November, 1855. His wife is still living. 
Of their four children, two are deceased : 
William, died in Illinois, aged about forty- 
five ; Louisa Rebecca, died aged fourteen 
months. Their surviving children are : 
Mary Ellen, Mrs. Johnson ; and Hiram, who 
married Ella Dirr. Mrs. Etien was married, 
the second time, to Hugh Urich ; they had 
one child, Samuel Edward. Mr. Urich en- 
listed in company E, Ninth Pennsylvania 
volunteer cavalry, and died while in the 
service, aged about thirty-nine years. 



Hatter, George W., furniture dealer and 
funeral director, Millersburg, Pa., was born 
at Donaldson, Schuylkill county, Pa., March 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1069 



3, 1859, and is a son of George and Mary 
(Haberacker) Hatter. 

George Hatter (1), grandfather of George 
W. Hatter, married Kate Erdman. They 
had nine children : Daniel, Kate, John, 
George, Elizabeth, Moses, David, Samuel, 
and Amanda. Mrs. Hatter died aged about 
eighty-eight. George Hatter, Jr., father of 
George W. Hatter, and his wife, Mary (Haber- 
acker) Hatter, are both living, and reside in 
Schuylkill county, Pa. Of their seven chil- 
dren, one, Frederick, died in infancy. The 
living children are: Joel, married Elizabeth 
Wolfgang ; Catherine, widow of Benedict 
Trefsger, and now wife of William Dinger; 
George W; William, married Emma Miller; 
Samuel M., married Agnes Miller, and 
Andrew, married Leah Lewis. 

George W. Hatter attended the public 
schools of his native county, and remained 
with his parents until he was eighteen. 
Although he had not attained his majority 
and his parents might lawfully and reason- 
ably have detained him at home, they were 
willing to relinquish their claim, and let him 
go forth into the world to make his own 
living. He looked about for some time and 
tried various occupations; among other em- 
ployments he worked for a time in the coal 
mines. He w r as not fully settled in any 
regular business until 1875, when he began 
to deal in live stock and in merchandise of 
different descriptions; he continued to be 
thus occupied until 1880. He afterwards 
obtained a contract for carrying the mails 
in Sullivan county, Pa., under an engage- 
ment for two and a half years, after which 
he returned to his native town. Finding 
there an opening for a furniture store, Mr. 
Hatter embarked in that line of business, 
and enjoyed a good patronage, building up 
a profitable trade in which he was engaged 
up to 1889 ; after this time he added to his 
enterprise the business of undertaker and 
funeral director. He continued this busi- 
ness at Donaldson until 1894, when he re- 
moved to Millersburg, established himself 
in commodious quarters, and began his suc- 
cessful career as furniture dealer and under- 
taker. Mr. Hatter has qualified himself for 
his business, especially in the undertaking 
branch, being the only graduated funeral 
director and embalmerin Millersburg or the 
vicinity. 

George W. Hatter was married, July 1, 
1876, to Jessie F., daughter of Lewis and 
Catherine (Moses) Miller. Of their five 



children, one is deceased, Mary Rebecca, 
born September 28, 1879, died September 
18, 1881. Their living children are : Ivan 
M., born July 26, 1877 ; Florence M., Febru- 
ary 17, 1881 ; Ernest G, December 17, 
1885 ; G. Granville, August 25, 1889. In 
beneficial and fraternal circles Mr. Hatter is 
prominent as a member of Council No. 972, 
R. A., at Tremont, Schuylkill count}', Pa.; 
I. 0. 0. F., at Millersburg, and Washington 
Camp, No. 74, P. 0. S. of A., at Donaldson, 
Schuylkill county. He is a Republican. The 
family attend the Reformed church. 

Lewis Miller, father of Mrs. Hatter, died 
April 10, 1886, aged about seventy-four. 
His wife died October 14, 1888, aged about 
sixty-nine. Of their five children, one, 
Mary, died in infancy ; the others are : Leo- 
line, wife of William Bodley ; James K., 
married Lottie Uminitz; she died and he 
married Dora Mutchler ; Florence E., wife 
of William Ludwick ; Jessie F., Mrs. Hatter. 

Mr. Hatter's business career is interesting. 
He began without material aid, carefully 
worked his own way and is now well estab- 
lished in trade, enjoying a liberal patronage 
without forebodings as to the future. He is 
among the substantial and honored men of 
the community, owing his success to his 
own self-reliant efforts. Since the foregoing 
was written Mr. Hatter has died. 



Etzweilek, Jerome, confectioner, Millers- 
burg, was born at Millersburg, Pa., Novem- 
ber 6, 1852, and is a son of John D. and 
Sarah (Henninger) Etzweiler. His grand- 
father, John Etzweiler, married Annie Gray, 
and they had these children : Rebecca, wife 
of Emanuel Frank ; John ; Mary, wife of 
John Slaight ; Salome, wife of J. Armbrus- 
ter ; Amanda, wife of John Walters ; Lydia, 
wife of Robert Ritchie; Theodore, an in- 
valid, and three children who died in in- 
fancy. 

John D. Etzweiler, father of Jerome Etz- 
weiler, resides at Dimmsville, Juniata 
county, Pa. Mrs. Sarah Etzweiler was born 
in 1835, and died in April, 1883. They had 
six children: John, died aged two years; 
Jerome ; Charles, married Lizzie Schaffer, 
has four children ; Louisa, wife of C. W. 
Fralich, has two children ; William, married 
Emma Vandyke, has three children; Jo- 
siah, married Gertrude Krotzer, has one 
child. Mr. Etzweiler was married, a second 
time, to Jennie, daughter of James Cox. 



1070 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Jerome Etzweiler was a pupil in the pub- 
lic schools of his native town for a part of 
each year until he was seventeen. During 
part of this time he was a very helpful as- 
sistant in the hotel kept by his father. After 
this time he was engaged in various occupa- 
tions, being industrious and enterprising, and 
willing to accept any respectable and rea- 
sonably remunerative employment. Even 
at that time he had the name of being an 
energetic and faithful workman, and he was 
seldom, if ever, without a job. He was for two 
years in the employ of the Northern Central 
Railway Company, and might have contin- 
ued in this service with every prospect of 
rapid promotion, since his services were 
prompt and faithful, and entirely satisfac- 
tory to the company, but Mr. Etzweiler was 
enterprising and ambitious, and had a strong 
desire to be at some business under his own 
control, being persuaded that his time and 
talents thus employed would result in larger 
benefit than if given to the business of an- 
other party. Scanning the situation at home, 
it occurred to him that there was good 
promise there for a well-conducted ice cream 
and confectionery business. Accordingly, on 
May 10, 1879, Mr. Etzweiler announced to 
the public his readiness to accommodate 
them in this line, and solicited their patron- 
age. The public generously responded ; the 
trade increased, and soon demanded larger 
facilities and accommodations, and in 1882 
Mr. Etzweiler established himself in the 
spacious and elegantly furnished rooms in 
which he has since received his patrons. He 
was favored by his friends and neighbors, 
not only because they thought it well to pa- 
tronize the young men of their own place, 
and thus encourage them to stay at home 
and aid in building up the town, but princi- 
pally because of his skillful management, 
strict attention to business and honest deal- 
ing, coupled with a courteous manner and 
an obliging disposition. 

Jerome Etzweiler was married, March 12, 
1882, to Sarah E., daughter of George and 
Elizabeth (Enterline) Holtzman, born De- 
cember 22, 1851. They are blessed with 
three children : George L., born January 21, 
1883 ; Mary Grace, May 22, 1886, and Will- 
iam H, January 15, 1888. Mr. Etzweiler is 
prominent among the Odd Fellows, holding 
membership in Lodge No. 183, Millersburg. 
He votes the Republican ticket and is a 
school director in Millersburg. Mr. Etz- 



weiler worships in the Evangelical church; 
his family attend the Lutheran church. 

George and Elizabeth Holtzman, parents 
of Mrs Etzweiler, are living. Of their eight 
children, Edward died October 11, 1895, 
aged thirty-seven, leaving a widow and two 
children, Charles and Pauline. Their other 
children are: Mary J.; John M., married 
Katie White ; Simon, married Frances 
Klinger ; Sarah E., Mrs. Etzweiler ; Ida ; 
Kate ; and Agnes, wife of Joseph Bowman. 
Michael Holtzman, grandfather of Mrs. Etz- 
weiler, married Elizabeth Novinger. They 
had six children : George, Jacob, James, 
Elizabeth, Leah, and Sarah. 



Hoffman, Isaac W., ticket and freight 
agent for the Northern Central and Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, Millersburg, 
Pa., was born in Lykens, now Washington 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., March 5, 
1837, and is a son of Jacob D. and Eve 
(Romberger) Hoffman. 

John Peter Hoffman was the first Ameri- 
can ancestor of the Hoffman family. With 
others of his family and friends he came to 
this country from Germany in 1739, and his 
descendants were soldiers in the Colonial 
army and in the wars with the Indians. He 
settled in Lykens Valley, at the end of Short 
Mountain, where he built a small house and 
where some of his descendants are living at 
this time. Jacob D. Hoffman, father of 
Isaac W. Hoffman, was of the fifth genera- 
tion in the direct line of descent from John 
Peter Hoffman, and was born July 3, 1812, 
on the farm on which that ancestor first set- 
tled. On the same place Jacob D. Hoffman 
had his residence after the death of his 
father until 1855. For his education he is 
less indebted to schools than to his native 
talent, his quick and clear perception and 
ready observation of men and events. His 
knowledge was of that practical character 
which prepared him for action and leader- 
ship, when matters of importance were to be 
decided upon in the community. He farmed 
the old homestead until 1850, when he took 
charge of the large Elder and Haldeman 
farm in the immediate vicinity, at the end 
of Short Mountain. Jacob D. Hoffman was 
married, May 19, 1836, to Eve, daughter of 
Adam Romberger, born June 28, 1810. 

He was one of the most influential Repub- 
licans of his neighborhood. In early life he 
filled many of the offices in his native town- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1071 



ship in the most acceptable manner; later 
he became prominent in county politics. In 
1848 he was elected county commissioner to 
fill an unexpired term, and in the following 
year was elected to a full term of that office. 
He was twice elected sheriff, in 1854 and in 
1866. Mr. Hoffman was also a man of great 
social worth, and his life was characterized 
by unfailing kindness and generosity. Those 
in need of help never appealed to him in 
vain. Few men draw to themselves more 
loyal friends than those who were attached 
to him. He died May 30, 1887. His wife 
died October 31, 1876, from the results of 
an accident, having been run down by an 
engine at Sunbury, Pa., May 30, 1876. they 
had nine children. 

Isaac W. Hoffman received his primary 
education in the district schools. At sixteen 
or seventeen years of age he attended the 
Berrysburg Academy for one term, after 
which he was urged by the school board to 
take one of the schools in his native town- 
ship. This was in 1854, when the system of 
county superintendency first went into effect. 
Mr. Hoffman yielded to this request and 
taught a six months' term. After this he 
studied one term at the Harrisburg Acad- 
emy, and then taught a winter school in 
Lykens township, spending the next term 
in study at the White Hall Academy in 
Cumberland county, and teaching the win- 
ter school at Stauffer's school house in Lower 
Paxton township. The next summer found 
him at the Freeland Academj', Montgomery 
county, Pa., after which he taught a regular 
term in the Berrysburg Academy, and in 
the following winter taught the regular term 
of the district school of that place. He 
spent the next summer at the State Normal 
School, Millersville, Lancaster county, and 
in the following winter taught the Elder 
school, in Swatara township, Dauphin 
county. 

Mr. Hoffman now determined to try 
another branch of business, and accepted an 
agency for the Osborne Reaper and Mowing 
Machine Company, of New York, in which 
he was active for one season. In the follow- 
ing winter he did important service at Hali- 
fax, where he taught the borough high 
school, and was instrumental in establishing 
the grading of the schools; so fully was he 
appreciated that he was retained for two 
terms in the superintendency of the Halifax 
schools. On September 5, 1859, Mr. Hoff- 



man received from the county superintendent 
a county certificate for professional teaching. 
In 1861 he was appointed route agent in the 
United States railway mail service. This 
position he held until November 30, 1865, 
when he was appointed agent of the North- 
ern Central Railway Company, at Millers- 
burg, Pa., and later was made agent of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company at the 
same place, which position he still satis- 
factorily fills. 

Isaac W. Hoffman was married, November 

6, 1866, to Sarah Frances, daughter of Dr. 
H. G. and Elizabeth Martin. Their children 
are: Roscoe White, born September 5, 1867; 
Jacob Odin, born August 5, 1869, married 
Elizabeth Crawford ; and Pauline, born De- 
cember 4, 1871. Mrs. Sarah F. Hoffman 
died December 17, 1874, sincerely mourned 
by her relatives and friends, and by all who 
knew her lovely character and unselfish life. 
She was a true Christian woman, conscien- 
tious in the discharge of duty, and doing 
good to all about her. Mr. Hoffman was 
married, the second time, November 6,1879, 
to Marion, daughter of Jacob E. and Cath- 
erine (Bollinger) Meek. Their children are: 
Dean Meek, born November 11, 1880 ; Her- 
bert Spencer, born January 24,1882; Mar- 
garet, born March 27, 1889, died December 

7, 1891 ; Lois and Marie, twins, born June 
26, 1893. 

Mr. Hoffman has served as director of the 
First National Bank of Millersburg, was one 
of the organizers of the Standard Axle 
Works, and the treasurer of that company 
for a year ; he was also among the organizers 
of the Millersburg Building Association, of 
which he served as secretary during the 
whole term of its existence. He holds a 
prominent place in the International Asso- 
ciation of Ticket Agents, and is also active 
in fraternal organizations, being a member 
of Perseverance Lodge, No. 183, I. O. O. F.. 
of Millersburg, of which he has been secre- 
tary for twenty-five years; of Dauphin En- 
campment, No. 10, I. O. O. F., of Harris- 
burg ; a member of Perseverance Lodge, 
No. 21, F. & A. M.; Perseverance Chapter, 
No. 21, R. A. M.; Pilgrim Commandery, 
No. 11, K. T.; Harrisburg Consistory, 32°, 
S. P. R. S., of Harrisburg ; Lulu Temple, 
A. A. O. N. M. S., of Philadelphia; Syrian 
Commandery, No. 133, A. & I. 0. K. 
of M., of Millersburg. Mr. Hoffman is a 
Republican. He has served on the borough 



1072 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



school board for twelve years, having been 
its secretary during all that time. He is a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal church. 
The parents of the present Mrs. Hoffman, 
Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Meek, are both living. 
They had six children: William North, died 
when one year old ; the living children are: 
James L.; Marion, who is Mrs. Hoffman ; 
Annie S.; Mary A.; Ida May, wife of Kimber 
E. Heckert, of Millersburg, Pa. 



Lenker, Daniel Y., distiller, was born 
in Lower Mahanoy township, Northumber- 
land county, Pa., October 17, 1841. He is a 
son of Nicholas and Catherine (Yeager) Len- 
ker. Michael Lenker, great-grandfather of 
Daniel Y. Lenker, married Matilda Enter- 
lein. John Lenker, grandfather of Daniel 
Y., married Maria Bobb. They had ten 
children: Lydia; Nicholas; Daniel; Adam; 
Mary, wife of Andrew Ditty ; Catherine, 
wife of Jonas Bonawitz ; John ; Jacob ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of Josiah Negley, and Michael, 
a minister at Lykens. Nicholas Lenker, 
father of Daniel Y. Lenker, was bom Sep- 
tember 5, 1814, and died March 29, 1888. 
His wife, Catherine Yeager, was born April 
16, 1817, daughter of Christopher and Eliza- 
beth (Radel) Yeager; she died February 11, 
1895. They had ten children : Sarah, de- 
ceased, wife of Daniel Keppenheffer ; Isaac, 
married Kate Zimmerman ; Mary, wife of 
Michael Metz ; Daniel Y.; John Y., married 
Lydia Hidle. of Ohio; David Y., married 
Emma Kunzelman ; William Y., married 
Susan Giebel; Elizabeth, wife of William 
Forney; Nicholas Y., married Lizzie Wise; 
and Catherine, wife of Charles Overholtzer. 

Daniel Y. Lenker was four years of age 
when his parents removed to Mifflin town- 
ship, Dauphin county. He attended the com- 
mon schools of that township until he was 
thirteen, when they again removed to a place 
near Killinger P. 0., in Upper Paxton town- 
ship. There the children had the advantages 
of the winter district school. Daniel not only 
helped on the farm, but also spent much 
time in his father's tailor shop, where he was 
a valuable assistant, saving his father many 
stitches, and gaining a thorough knowledge 
of the trade. He was employed in this wa} 7 
until he was eighteen, when he was permitted 
to supplement the instruction received in 
home schools by attendance for two terms at 
the academy at Freeburg, Snyder county, in 
the spring of 1860. Returning home, he 



was engaged in tailoring with his father until 
he entered the army. 

In 1862, August 1, Mr. Lenker enlisted at 
Harrisburg, in company G, Sixth regiment, 
Pennsylvania militia, under Captain Shers 
and Colonel Kieffer, and was moved with his 
regiment to the battlefield of Antietam, 
and thence to Fort Washington, where his 
term of enlistment expired, and he was mus- 
tered out. He reached home in September, 

1862. After passing the winter at home, Mr. 
Lenker re-enlisted in May, 1863, and was 
made an orderly at Camp Curtin on the staff 
of the provost marshal, which position lie 
held until June, 1863, when he was ordered 
with the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania militia 
to Gettysburg. He was detailed with others 
to serve as spy, to locate the position of the 
enemy's forces; while on this service he and 
fifteen of his comrades were captured and 
sentenced to be shot or hanged; but the de- 
feat of the Southern army at Gettysburg re- 
sulted in their being paroled. Barefooted 
and with hardly enough clothing to cover 
him, Mr. Lenker made his way on foot from 
Gettysburg to Dillsburg, and thence to his 
home, where he remained until December, 

1863. He then entered the State University 
at Columbus, Ohio, and pursued a course of 
study until June 2, 1864; after which he 
came home, and again enlisted in the United 
States army at Harrisburg, joining company 
G, One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania 
volunteers, in which he served until the 
close of the war, and was mustered out at 
Newberne, N. O, in August, 1865. 

In the winter of 1865 and 1866 he taught 
school in Lower Mahanoy township, North- 
umberland county, in the old weaving shop 
of his grandfather, the room in which the 
first free school opened in that township was 
held. In the spring of 1866 Mr. Lenker re- 
turned to Upper Paxton township and en- 
gaged with his father at tailoring, at the 
same time carrying on a small farming busi- 
ness on a place near Rife P. 0., known as 
the Henry Pottinger farm, which he had 
bought. He continued in these lines of 
business until 1869, when he sold the farm 
and bought his present homestead near Mil- 
lersburg, known as the Haldeman farm, and 
once owned by Daniel Miller; there he en- 
gaged in farming, gardening and fruit rais- 
ing. He was also for some time a contrac- 
tor. In 1880 he took up the business of dis- 
tilling fruit brandies, essential oils, and rye 
whiskey, in which he has been successfully 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



1073 



and profitably engaged up to the present 
time. Mr. Lenker has shown great energy 
and enterprise and much business ability, 
and is now rewarded by prosperity. His 
products are of the best, and find a wide 
market, and his trade is secure and increas- 
ing. 

Daniel Y. Lenker was married, October 23, 
1866, to Julia A., daughter of William and 
Amelia (Year) Kootka, born November 25, 
1844, at Kremnitz, near Berlin, Prussia. 
Three of their eight children are deceased. 
Their surviving children are : Mary V., born 
March 14, 1863, wife of George Hoffman, has 
three children, Guy Lenker, Harry P. and 
Esther ; Mildred, born March 3, 1870 ; Cathe- 
rine, April 24, 1872 ; Harry Cordes, Febru- 
ary 10, 1874 ; and Earl, July 24, 1881. 

Mr. Lenker has served as school director 
for about twelve years. His political opin- 
ions are independent. He is associated with 
the Masonic fraternity, being a member of 
State Lodge, No. 22 ; he belongs also to Kil- 
patrick Post, No. 212, G. A. P., at Millers- 
burg. The family attend the Lutheran 
church. 

William Kootka, father of Mrs. Lenker, 
was born in Carnnitz, near Berlin, April 1, 
1810, and came with his family to America 
in 1853. He landed at New York, came to 
Wiconisco, in the Lykens Valley, and re- 
moved to Rife P. 0., where he engaged in 
milling; he died in Millersburg, Pa., Sep- 
tember 19, 1886, aged seventy-six ; his wife 
also died in Millersburg, September 6, 1 887, 
aged seventy-four. They had three children : 
Amelia, wife of Willard Harper, who was 
killed in the battle of the Wilderness, leaving 
one child, Thomas ; his widow married 
George Falkenmeyer; William A., married 
Tina Sophia Weaver, has three children ; 
and Julia, Mrs. Lenker. 



Lenker, William E., retired merchant, 
was born in Mifniu township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 9, 1833, and is a 
son of William and Eve Catherine (Feidt) 
Lenker. Philip Lenker, his grandfather, 
was twice married. His second marriage 
was with Ann Margaret Weaver; their 
children were: Jacob, Philip, William, John, 
David, Jonas, Susanna, Adam, and Sarah. 
William Lenker, father of William E., was 
born February 6, 1805, and died March 29, 
1869. His wife, Eve Catherine Feidt, was 
born December 24, 1805, and died May 24, 



1887. Four of their six children are de- 
ceased : Joel, born December 17, 1839, died 
August 27, 1844; Aaron, born September 16, 
1843, died October 13,1846; Lavinia, born 
August 28, 1840, died February 25, 1892, 
wife of Thomas Matter; Susan, born May 
16, 1831, wife of Joel Koppenhaver, who 
died, and she married Jacob Emerick ; she 
died December 27, 1894. The living chil- 
dren of Mr. and Mrs. William Lenker are: 
William E. and Daniel, who was born Octo- 
ber 11, 1828, and resides at Aaronsburg, Pa. 

William E. Lenker was educated in the 
district schools of Mifflin township, which he 
attended during part of each year until he 
was fourteen. At that age he went with his 
parents to Upper Paxton township, where 
he continued to attend the common schools 
until 1852. During his years at school he 
was also working on the farm, and assisting 
his parents to the best of his power in 
every busy season. On November 2; 1852, 
he entered Mt. Pleasant College, West- 
moreland county, Pa., and pursued the reg- 
ular course of studies there for two terms, 
after which he attended the Berrysburg 
Seminary for two terms. In 1855 he studied 
at the State Normal School, Millersville, 
Lancaster county, during the spring term ; 
then in the summer of the same j'ear he 
helped his father as usual with the harvest 
work. After a term at the New Berlin Acad- 
emy in Union county, he taught a winter 
school at home, resuming farm work with 
his father in the spring. The following 
winter he taught school in Upper Paxton 
township, working again for his father in 
the summer, and receiving wages ; the next 
winter he taught again in Upper Paxton 
township. In 1858 Mr. Lenker rented his 
father's farm on shares, and continued this 
arrangement for nine successive years, teach- 
ing every winter either in Mifflin or Upper 
Paxton township. During that time he 
received a teacher's professional certificate 
from County Superintendent Ingram. 

On February 12, 1866, Mr. Lenker and 
Samuel Lehman made arrangements for the 
purchase of the Lykens Valley store, and on 
October 1, 1866, they took possession and 
began business under the firm name of Len- 
ker & Lehman. Mr. Lenker remained on 
the home farm until the next spring, when 
he occupied his present homestead. The 
firm conducted the business for five years. 
In 1871 Mr. Lenker bought the interest of 
his partner and continued business by him- 



1074 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



self until March, 1888. He then retired, 
leaving as successor bis son, Francis Winfield 
Lenker, who has since conducted the busi- 
ness. Mr. Lenker has kept pace with the 
march of improvement, and has done his 
share in building up the place. In 1872 he 
built the fine dwelling in which his son now 
lives. In 1892 he remodeled his own resi- 
dence, improving, enlarging, and adorning 
it, and making it one of the most desirable 
homes in the region. 

On October 1, 1857, William B. Lenker 
was married to Amanda, daughter of Jonas 
and Elizabeth Diebler, born October 16, 
1837. Mrs. Diebler's maiden name was the 
same as that of her husband, although they 
were not at all related. Mr. and Mrs. Len- 
ker have two children : Francis Winfield, 
born April 12, 1861, married Annie Miller, 
has one son, Mark Homer ; and Minnie Sa- 
villa, wife of Benton P. Negley, has two chil- 
dren, Helen Amanda and William Isaac. 
Mrs. Lenker died December 21, 1886. She 
was faithful in all her round of duties, and 
gentle and loving in her ways. She made a 
profession of religion in connection with the 
United Brethren church, and honored this 
profession by a godly walk and conversation. 
She was one of a family of seven children, of 
whom she was the eldest ; the others were 
Mary, Lizzie, John H, Sarah Jane, Cathe- 
rine, and Jonas Edward. Mr. Lenker was 
married, the second time, November 7, 1891, 
to Mary M., widow of Cornelius Hoy, and 
daughter of the Rev. Henry E. Hacknian, 
Elizabethville, Dauphin county, Pa. 

Mr. Hackman's family consisted of eleven 
children : Anne, wife of Michael Hicker ; 
Mary, Mrs. Lenker ; Alice, wife of Onesimus 
Kreider ; Edward, married Henrietta Stahl ; 
Clara ; Horace, married Mollie Shoffsta.ll ; 
Wilson, married Sallie Light ; Ida, wife of 
Frank Bender ; Lizzie, deceased ; Virginia, 
wife of Samuel M. Glenigon, and Laura, wife 
of Henry Stein. 

Mr. Lenker's political preferences are with 
the Republican party. He has served the 
township in various offices. He was elected 
justice of the peace in 1876, served two years, 
and then resigned ; re-elected in 1892, he 
has continued in office ever since. Under 
President Johnson's administration, in 1867, 
he was appointed postmaster of Killinger, 
Pa., and held the office until 1885. Mr. 
Lenker and his family are members of the 
United Brethren church. 



Riegle, Benjamin, retired farmer, was 
born in Tulpehocken township, Berks county, 
Pa., March 24, 1805. His parents are George 
and Anna Mary (Lesher) Riegle. His pater- 
nal grandparents are John and Elizabeth 
(Zeller) Riegle, and his maternal grandpar- 
ents John and Barbara Lesher. George 
Riegle, his father, died at the age of eighty- 
six years and eight months; his wife died 
aged about eighty-three. They had twelve 
children : Benjamin, Daniel, who died at the 
age of twenty-two, John, Jacob, Jonathan, 
David, George, Henry, Elias, Elizabeth, Mary, 
and Catherine. 

Benjamin Riegle was carefully trained from 
earliest childhood at home, and his parents 
made willing contributions for the support 
of a school in the neighborhood in which he 
was a pupil. This was before the establish- 
ment of the admirable public school system, 
maintained by general taxation ; these sub- 
scription schools were the only educational 
advantages within the reach of people of 
moderate means. The family removed to 
Northumberland county when Benjamin was 
nine years old. His education being lim- 
ited, having attended school only a few 
months for two or three winters, he con- 
tinued to attend subscription schools until 
he was nineteen. These schools were only 
kept open during the winter season, when 
farm work was not pressing; in the farming 
season all the girls and boys were industri- 
ous helpers in home and farm work. 

Mr. and Mrs. Riegle thinking it well that 
a boy should know a trade, Benjamin was 
placed with Jacob Welker, of Millersburg, to 
learn that of cabinet making. At the end of 
two years Mr. Welker pronounced him a well 
trained mechanic, and he went to work as a 
journeyman. After following this occupa- 
tion for one year, Mr. Riegle decided to re- 
turn to farm work ; so, after due considera- 
tion, he rented a farm in Upper Paxton town- 
ship, from Jacob Landis, for three years. 
Within the first year of his lease he learned 
that he could buy a farm on easy terms, so 
he sublet the Landis farm to Jacob Lebo, and 
on April 1, 1828, bought his present home- 
stead, then comprising one hundred and 
twenty-eight acres. He at once took posses- 
sion and began the process of clearing, im- 
proving, enriching the soil and erecting 
needed structures, making substantial im- 
provements of all kinds in due order, which 
have brought his farm into first-class condi- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1075 



tion, both for productiveness and for appear- 
ance, and made him a prosperous farmer. 
His first great improvement, and the one he 
deemed most important, was the large, sub- 
stantial an<l convenient barn that he built in 
1834. Finding that he could as easily and 
more economically manage a larger farm, 
Mr. Riegle bought fifty acres more of Chris- 
topher Yeager in 1838, and fifty of William 
Lenker five years later ; all of which coming 
under the same skillful and judicious man- 
agement, made the additions equal to the 
original farm in condition and value. The 
dwelling Mr. Riegle determined should be 
one that would adorn his farm and afford his 
family convenience and comfort; and in 
1859 he built the beautiful and spacious resi- 
dence which has since been his home. 

As the children appear upon the threshold 
of active life Mr. Riegle takes care of their 
interests. In 1850 he bought of George Buf- 
fington a farm of one hundred and twenty- 
eight acres, which he greatly imp roved, and 
which, in 1865, he sold to his son Jonathan. 
In- 1860 he bought of Simon Yeager a farm 
of one hundred and twenty-five acres of 
cleared land and thirty acres of timber, on 
which, in 1861, be built a large barn and 
made other improvements, and in 1866 sold 
it to his son-in-law, Jeremiah Landis. In 
the spring of the same year he sold one 
hundred acres, with buildings, to his son 
Benjamin. Mr. Riegle's circumstances now 
made it necessarj' for him to be taxed with 
the burdens and responsibilities of active 
business, but his integrity and ability were 
so manifest in his career that organized in- 
dustries and financial trusts and ven- 
tures desired his aid and support in 
their administration ; for any enterprise to 
which Benjamin Riegle would give his 
name would win and hold public confi- 
dence. A number of such enterprises in 
the lower end of Lykens Valley have en- 
joyed his services and his endorsement. Mr. 
Riegle was for many years a stockholder in 
one of the Harrisburg banks, and was 
largely instrumental in the organization of 
the Lykens Valley Bank, now the First Na- 
tional Bank of Millersburg, in which for 
many years he was a director and one of 
the principal stockholders; he was also one 
of the principal organizers of the Lykens 
Bank. 

Benjamin Riegle was first married, Janu- 
ary 31, 1826, to Catherine Diebler, daughter 
of Daniel and Anna Mary (Fessel) Diebler. 



They had nine children, of whom seven 
are deceased. Mrs. Riegle died January 16, 
1875, and was deeply mourned by those who 
knew her many virtues and her exemplary 
conduct in all relations of life. In the sec- 
ond marriage of Mr. Riegle he was united, 
June 6, 1875, to Mrs. Elizabeth Hummel, 
widow of John Hummel, who died October 
6, 1865. Mrs. Riegle's children, by her first 
marriage, are Henry, Jacob, Matthias, Chris- 
tian, and Elizabeth, all deceased; Mary; 
John, who married Susan Bidding, and 
Amanda, wife of David Lenker. 

Mr. Riegle's character is no less marked 
and prominent through his domestic and 
social qualities than through those which 
secured to him the remarkable success of his 
business career. Multitudes share his hos- 
pitality and enjoy his society. He is boun- 
tiful in his charities, and a willing and lib- 
eral contributor to all measures for the pro- 
motion of the public welfare. His church 
membership is in the United Brethren 
church, and he is second to none in his sup- 
port of its benevolent enterprises. 



Weaver, Philip, farmer, was born on 
the homestead in Upper Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., March 19, 1850, and 
is a son of William J. and Elizabeth (Hoy) 
Weaver. His grandfather, Jacob Weaver, 
married Christina Cooper, and they had five 
children : Jac b, who died young ; George, 
married Sarah Cameron ; Adam ; William 
J.; Sarah, married to Peter Schreffier, who 
died, and she married Jacob Martz. Will- 
iam J. Weaver, father of Philip Weaver, 
was born in November, 1818, and died May 
10, 1883, aged about sixty-five. His wife 
died November 13, 1887, at nearly the same 
age. Their children are : Sarah, deceased, 
wife of Jacob H. Forney; Catherine, wife 
of Michael Kuffer; Philip; Jonathan, mar- 
ried Louisa Strohnecker; Christian, married 
Catherine Campbell ; Isaac, married Eliza- 
beth Hummel, and after her death, Sarah 
Novinger; Samuel, married Kate Miller; 
Elizabeth, married Daniel Koppenheffer. 

Philip Weaver was, in his boyhood, kept 
busily at work on the farm during the 
season for farm work ; his only opportunity 
for school education was in the common 
schools of his township, which were open 
for a few months of each winter. He re- 
mained with his parents until he became of 
age, and then went out to work among the 
neighboring farmers. His first engagement 



1076 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



was with Jonas Diebler, with whom he 
continued until August 10, 1871. He was 
then with Rev. J. W. Lesher for eighteen 
months, farming for him and running his 
saw mill ; after this he was for a short time 
with Brown & Earl} 7 , at Williamsport, Pa., 
spending the remainder of the summer with 
Taber & Goodrich, and in both of these 
situations doing general work. He went 
home in the fall of 1873, and remained 
until the following spring, when he took 
one of his father's farms on shares, and cul- 
tivated it for one year. He then removed 
to his present homestead, where he has 
since been engaged in general farming. He 
has much improved the place ; in 1885 he 
built upon it a saw and a grist mill, and 
has a good trade with the farmers of the 
vicinity. Philip Weaver was married, No- 
vember 16, 1873, to Amelia Mary, daughter 
of Simon and Tina (Henninger) Daniel, 
born June 25, 1848. Their children are: 
Oliver, born March 2,1874; Annie Nora, 
October 11, 1875, wife of Francis M. Larkin, 
has one child, Edna Rebecca ; George 
Melancthon, March 17, 1877 ; Lizzie Celesta, 
January 5, 1879 ; Tina Amanda, November 
16, 188*0; Frederick Patterson, November 
7, 1882; Edward Whitney, January 10, 
1885; and Monroe Curtin, January 17, 1887. 
Mr. Weaver is a Democrat. He served one 
term of five years in the office of justice of 
the peace. The family are members of the 
Reformed church. 

Simon Daniel, father of Mrs. Weaver, 
died in 1885, aged about seventy ; his wife 
survives him. Of their eleven children, 
two are deceased : Amanda, wife of Gabriel 
Weary, and Malinda, wife of Henry 
Schneider. The surviving children are: 
Edward Isaac, married Mary Coleman ; 
Sarah, wife of Cornelius Kohler; Aaron, 
married Mary Buffington ; Amelia Mary, 
Mrs. Weaver; Henry, married Christine 
Hubach ; Catherine and Lizzie, twins, the 
former married to William Wolf, the latter 
to William Wenrich; Fietta, wife of Elmer 
Thompson. 



Weaver, Adam G., retired farmer, was 
born on his father's farm, Upper Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., November 24, 
1814, and is a son of George and Margaretta 
(Lenker) Weaver. Jacob AVeaver, his grand- 
father, was born near Zweibreucke, Bavaria. 
After coming to this country he married 
Margaretta Schamera ; their children were : 



Jacob, Gretchen, Daniel, Magdalena, and 
George. George Weaver, father of Adam G. 
Weaver, died in July, 1858, aged about 
seventy-six ; his wife died October 24, 1832, 
aged about forty-eight. All of their family 
of fifteen children grew to maturity but one, 
Elizabeth, who died aged eleven. The other 
children were : Mary, Jacob, George, Su- 
sanna, David, Adam, Lydia, Daniel, Simon, 
Fanny, Rebecca, Annie, William, and 
Rachel. 

Adam Weaver had very slender oppor- 
tunities for securing an education, for while 
there was a subscription school open in the 
neighborhood for a part of each year, he 
could not avail himself fully of even this ad- 
vantage, for he was very active and helpful, 
and the farm work made constantly increas- 
ing demands on his time as he grew older. 
From his eighteenth to his twenty-eighth 
year he gave his entire time to farming. For 
six of those years he and his brother took 
the farm on shares. At the age of twenty- 
eight he removed to his present homestead, 
which had been bought by his father, and 
was at that time only a rough piece of land, 
without buildings or improvements. He 
made an agreement with his father for the 
use and final possession of this land on 
terms which they considered reasonable 
and within his reach. Here he began the 
making of a farm and a home. He first 
built a small log house, which was a comfort- 
able dwelling, and which he occupied until 
he had secured time and means for erecting 
a good house. He made improvements in 
the order of their necessity, and in 1844 
built a large and substantial barn. It was a 
long time before he felt ready for the dwell- 
ing, but in 1861, the conditions being favor- 
able, the elegant residence was erected, which 
has been the home of his family since that 
date. All other improvements came in due 
order and time, and the result is the home- 
stead in its completeness and excellence. 
The time of waiting was shortened by Mr. 
Weaver's employing the winter months in 
weaving flax and wool, a trade which he had 
learned from his father , and progress was 
still more assisted by frugality and economy 
in his way of living and in the general con- 
duct of his affairs. At the time of his fath- 
er's death, in 1858, Mr. Weaver received the 
deed to the farm, which consists of one hun- 
dred and fifty acres of land in a high state of 
cultivation and improvement. In 1866 he 
bought the John Weaver farm, which his 



DAUPBIN COUNTY. 



107? 



son Jeremiah occupies, and which he sold to 
his son in 1890. In the same year he 
bought the Isaac Negley farm, on which his 
son Adam now resides. In 1880 he built 
the cottage in which his son Aaron lives, 
and in 1892 purchased two hundred and 
twenty-one acres of land from Andrew Rich- 
mond. 

On May 30, 1843, Adam Weaver was mar- 
ried to Susanna, daughter of Henry and 
Catherine (Buffmgton) Danieh born January 
31, 1831. Their children are: Catherine, 
born July 6, 1844 ; Jeremiah, born Novem- 
ber 25, 1845, married Sarah Bohner, by 
whom he had four children, and after her 
death married Abby Wright, had two chil- 
dren ; Cornelius, born February 13, 1848, 
married Julia Fogleman, has one child ; 
Aaron, born October 30, 1849, married Ellen 
Miller, had two children ; Adam, born March 
22, 1852, married Lizzie Gassner, has five 
children ; Susanna Weaver, born May 4, 
1855, married Gilbert Troutman, has ten chil- 
dren ; Priscilla, born April 18, 1858 ; and 
Adeline, born July 7, 1860, married Jacob 
Wiest, now deceased, had one child. Mrs. 
Weaver died May 27, 1872. 

Mr. Weaver is a Republican. He is a 
member of the Evangelical church. His 
business course is a fine study for young men. 
By his example they may see the value of in- 
dustrious and careful habits in early youth, 
and the necessity of frugality and economy if 
any foundation is to be laid for future compe- 
tency. They will see that good will, hon- 
esty and a scrupulous regard for the comfort 
of others are needful to the highest success. 
They will further see in the conduct and 
character of Mr. Weaver a pattern of excel- 
lence in all the relations of life, and in his 
quiet enjoyment of the fruits of his early 
diligence they may observe the substantial 
rewards of right living. 



Keefer, Joseph, Sr., watch and clock 
maker, was born in Lower Paxton township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., September 10, 1820, 
and is a son of Joseph and Christina (Gip- 
ple) Keefer. Joseph Keefer (1), father of Jo- 
seph Keefer, Sr., died February 1, 1868, 
aged eighty years, one month and one day. 
His wife died October, 1837, aged fifty-one or 
fifty-two. Their children were: Elizabeth, 
Jacob, Sarah, Mary, Catherine, Jane, Joseph, 
Susan, and Annie. 

Joseph Keefer, Sr., attended the subscrip- 
tion school in Lower Paxton township one 



term. When he was nine years old his par- 
ents moved to Upper Paxton township to a 
place three miles east of Millersburg, settling 
there in April, 1830. There Joseph was in 
the private school several years, and later 
went to the district school a part of each 
year until he was eighteen. For several years 
previous to this he had been repairing clocks 
and watches, and had become quite skillful 
in the trade which he subsequently made his 
occupation. He remained with his parents 
until he was twenty-three, and then went to 
work on the farm of his brother-in-law, near 
Oakland Mills, Juniata county, Pa. In 1844 
he returned to Upper Paxton township and 
bought forty acres of land of his father, on 
which he built a house and barn and made 
other improvements, substantial and service- 
able. In 1850 he bought a farm of seventy 
acres, in Perry county, Pa., in Liverpool 
township. There, besides his farming, he 
worked at his trade, and also conducted a 
carpet and cloth weaving business until 
1866. In that year, his wife having died 
December 5, 1865, he went back to Upper 
Paxton township and lived with his parents 
until the spring of 1867, when he removed 
to Pumpkin Hill, now Rife Postoffice, in 
Upper Paxton township. There he worked at 
his trade of watch and clock making, and 
later opened a general store. He bought 
with the store twenty acres of land, which he 
cultivated. In 1869 Mr. Keefer sold his store 
and farm and bought a small farm of his 
father, near Millersburg, consisting of thir- 
teen acres. On this place he remained until 
1875, when he bought his present home- 
stead, and in 1876 built upon it the house 
in which he now resides. It is a farm of 
nineteen acres, which he has highly im- 
proved and made valuable and attractive. 

Joseph Keefer was married, May 2, 1843, 
to Christina, daughter of Philip and Cathe- 
rine Luckenbach, born February 7, 1827. 
Of their eight children, three are deceased : 
Jacob T., born November 8, 1846, died Oc- 
tober 6, 1881, married Margaret Dunkle, and 
left five children ; Sarah A., born April 13, 
1850, wife of Adam Miller, died July 2, 1884; 
Rev. Daniel W., born February 4, 1859; at- 
tended the district schools of Perry countj T 
for a short time before the removal of the 
family to Upper Paxton township, where he 
went to winter schools and worked out among 
the farmers during other seasons. At nine- 
teen years of age he began teaching school 
at Loyalton, Washington township, and 



1078 



BIO GRA PHICAL ENGYCL OPEDIA 



then, after working for a time with his 
brother, Joseph P., in the woolen factory, in 
Cumberland county, he began his studies for 
the ministry. At their completion he was 
ordained to the sacred office, and occupied 
several pastorates; he was last located at 
Highland church, near Steel ton, Pa., where 
he died February 19, 1892. He was an able 
and faithful minister, became prominent in 
his profession, and was honored and loved 
by all his parishioners. He left a wife and 
one child. 

The surviving children of Mr. and Mrs. 
Keefer are : Joseph P., born October 6, 1848, 
married Annie Miller ; Mary E., born Jan- 
nary 8, 1854, wife of Tobias Sheetz ; Will- 
iam L., born February 18, 1860, resides in 
Florida ; John B., born May 27, 1862, studied 
dentistry, and is practicing at Altoona, Pa., 
married Mary Auxer ; Rebecca Jane, born 
August 19, 1864, wife of Morris Shultzberger. 
Mrs. Keefer died December 5, 1865. Mr. 
Keefer was married again, December 20, 
1866, to Sarah Haffley, daughter of John 
and Magdalena Haffley. 

Mr. Keefer was formerly a Whig, and 
when the Republican party came into exist- 
ence he united with that organization. While 
in Perry county he served in numerous town- 
ship offices. He has been for about sixty 
years a member of the Brethren in Christ, 
commonly called River Brethren ; was for 
many years a deacon ; in 1879 he was elected 
to the ministry, and still holds that sacred 
office. 

Philip Luckenbach, father of the first 
Mrs. Keefer, is deceased, as is also his wife. 
They had a family of ten girls and six boys ; 
Mrs. Keefer was the youngest girl. The 
present Mrs. Keefer is one of seven children, 
one of whom, Martha, died March 19, 1896, 
aged sixty-eight years and five months. The 
surviving brothers and sisters are : Jacob, 
David, Elizabeth, Sophia, Nancy, and Sarah, 
Mrs. Keefer. 



Plambeck:, Joachim Hartewig William, 
merchant tailor, was born in Marlow, a small 
town in the province of Mechlenburg 
Schwerin, Germany, March 12, 1850. He is 
a son of Joachim Frederick Christopher and 
Maria Magdalena Augusta (Juchstock) Plam- 
beck. Joachim Juchstock, maternal grand- 
father of Mr. Plambeck, had a family of 
three children : Fritz, William, and Maria 
Magdalena Augusta. 



J. F. C. Plambeck, father of J. H.W. Plam- 
beck is one of a family of two, the other be- 
ing Mary, who died at about eighteen years 
of age. Mr. Plambeck was born October 23, 
1802. His wife, Maria M. A. Juchstock, was 
born October 26, 1816, and survives him. 
Two of their children are deceased, a son 
bearing the same name as J. F. C. Plambeck, 
and a daughter Mary; both died in child- 
hood. The surviving children are: Helena, 
widow of Christian Daden ; Fritz, married, 
and has four children ; Wilhelmine, wife of 
Heinrich Brudigam ; Joachim H. W.; Eliza, 
wife of Fritz Nillers ; Johanna, wife of Fritz 
Wendt, and August Plambeck, blacksmith. 

Joachim H. W. Plambeck was carefully 
trained and instructed in the public schools 
of his native place until he was fourteen, 
when he began an apprenticeship at tailor- 
ing with George Thomas, in the city of ■ 
Rostock, Mechlenburg. His term of in- 
denture ended June 15, 1868, and he then 
worked as a journeyman in various places 
until f872, when he began military service 
in an artillery regiment of the Ninth army 
corps in the field. His three years' term of 
service having expired, he resumed work as 
a journeyman tailor at several places in Ger- 
many up to 1882. He then yielded to his 
strong desire to see the land of free institu- 
tions, leaving Germany September 13, 1882, 
and landing at New York, September 27. 
1882. He settled at Millersburg, and was 
employed as a journeyman by Frederick R. 
Gilbert until December 12, 1884, when he 
began business on his own account, and by 
his thorough knowledge of his trade, and his 
honorable dealing, he has built up a large 
and profitable business. 

Mr. Plambeck is an ardent admirer of the 
Americans and their liberal institutions, and 
became a naturalized citizen September 30, 
1889 ; he is as loyal and patriotic as any 
native born citizen. He began his business 
career as a stranger and without capital, and 
has attained to the enviable success he en- 
joys solely by his own skill and diligence. 
In political views Mr. Plambeck is not iden- 
tified with any party, but holds neutral 
ground. He attends the religious services 
of the Lutheran church. 



Cordes, Henry, train dispatcher, North- 
ern Central Railway, at Millersburg, was 
born near the harbor of Breman, king- 
dom of Hanover, now one of the German 
States, July 29, 1838. He is a son of Henry 





/ w / - 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



lost 



and Sophia Cecilia (Luebken) Cordes. Henry 
Cordes, Sr., was born in Hanover, Germany, 
grew up and married there. Part of his 
family preceded him to America in 1852; 
he and his wife emigrated in 1856. He 
died May 2, 1876, aged sixty-two ; his wife 
died March 11, 1875, aged sixty. Of their 
nine children, five are deceased : Anna, wife 
of Cornelius Fink, had one child ; Sophia, 
who married Frank Carlton ; Caroline, wife 
of William Young ; George, died within five 
weeks of Caroline's death, both dying of 
trichinosis ; Margaret, wife of John C. King, 
had seven children : Philipina, Esther, Mar- 
garet, John, Louis, Elizabeth, and one de- 
ceased, Joseph ; Louis C, married Emma 
Brubaker, had three children deceased, Mar- 
garet and Anna were twins. The surviving 
children of Henry and Cecilia Cordes are: 
Henry ; Hattie C, married Oscar Snyder, 
who died, and she married Charles Bohne, 
and after his death, Frank C. Taylor; she 
had one child, Oscar, son of her first hus- 
band.; Rettie, twin of Hettie C, wife of 
Charles Dobson, has one child, Nellie; these 
twin sisters so closely resemble each other in 
personal appearance that their mother often 
failed to distinguish them ; Frederick G., 
married Hannah Willets, has one child, 
Frederick, who served from the beginning 
to the end of the war of the Rebellion in the 
famous Kane's rifles, Bucktail regiment. 

Henry Cordes attended the schools of his 
native city until he was fourteen, when he 
came with his sister Anna to America, sail- 
ing April 15, 1852, and arriving at New 
York, May 27, 1852. He came to Harris- 
burg and began an apprenticeship with his 
uncle, Henry Luebken, at baking; after 
serving two years he removed to Philadel- 
phia, where he was in the employ of Her- 
man Haupt, chief civil engineer of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company until 1856; 
he then returned to Harrisburg with his 
parents, who had just come from Germany, 
and remained a short time with them. 
Through Dr. Butt, of Philadelphia, he was 
employed by the Florida Lumber Company, 
in the capacity of clerk, and went to Florida, 
where the state of his health permitted him 
to remain only a short time. He was then 
employed by Philip Walters, the brother-in- 
law of his uncle, to do farm work and assist 
in butchering on his farm in York county, 
Pa. He continued there until April 18, 
1861, when he enlisted at Camp Curtin, Har- 



risburg, in company B, Second Pennsylvania 
volunteers, Capt. John Doebler and Col. 
Frederick Staumback. His regiment moved 
from Harrisburg to the vicinity of Baltimore, 
and after a short stay there was sent to York, 
Pa,, thence through Maryland and into 
Virginia, and thence through Baltimore to 
Harrisburg, where he was discharged at the 
end of three months' service. 

Mr. Cordes remained with his parents 
until August 9, 1861, when he re-enlisted in 
the Eighteenth United States infantry, in 
which he served until January 25, 1865. 
This regiment was ordered to Columbus, 
Ohio, in November, 1861, was transferred to 
the Army of the Cumberland, at Louisville, 
Ky., and participated in the campaign 
through Kentucky, ending in the defeat of 
General Zollicoffer's army at Mill Springs, 
after which it retired to Louisville. The 
movement of the regiment was then from 
Louisville to East Point, Ky., thence by 
boats down the Ohio river to the Cumber- 
land, up to Fort Donelson, thence to Nash- 
ville, Tenn., thence to Shiloh, thence to 
Corinth, Miss., thence to Rienzi, Blackland, 
Booneville, to uear Holly Springs, Miss., 
thence back to Corinth, thence to Iuka, 
thence to East Port Landing, crossing the 
Tennessee river to Alabama, whence they 
returned to Louisville, Ky., by way of Athens, 
Tuscumbia, Decatur and Salem, Ala., Deck- 
ard, Murfreesboro and Nashville, Tenn., 
Bowling Green, Mumfordsville and East 
Point, Ky., and reaching Louisville October 
1, 1862. 

After resting four days they started on 
the Perrysville camjiaign, by way of Shep- 
herdville, Bardstown and Springfield to 
Perrysville or, (Chaplain Hills), thence to 
Crab Orchard, Frankfort, Greenville, Mum- 
fordsville, Bowling Green, Ky.; Gallatin, 
Bellows Ford, Pilot Knob, Edgefield and 
Nashville, Tenn. They then moved on 
Christmas day, 1862, to Murfreesboro (Stone 
river), where they lost nearly half the regi- 
ment. From Murfreesboro they moved to 
Tulahoma, Tenn.; thence to Cowen, across 
the Cumberland mountains into the Crow 
Creek Valley; thence to Stephenson, Ala.; 
thence to Bridgeport, Ala., where they 
crossed the Tennessee river and Raccoon 
mountains into the Trenton Valley, Ga.; 
thence across Lookout mountain into the 
Chickamauga Valley, Ga.; thence to Chatta- 
nooga, Tenn., where, in September, 1863, 



67 



1082 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCTGL OPEDIA 



they were in a number of engagements and 
remained in that vicinity until May 14, 
1864. 

They then began the Atlanta campaign, 
moving first to Ringgold, Ga.; thence to 
Tunnel Hill, thence to Buzzard's Roost, 
thence to Snake Creek Gaj) to Resaca; thence 
to Kingston, Cassville, Burnt Hickory, New 
Hope Church, Pumpkin Vine Creek, Big 
Shanty, Kenesaw, Smyrna, Chattahooche 
river, Peachtree creek, Atlanta, Eutaw creek, 
to Jonesborough, Ga., where Mr. Cordes re- 
ceived a serious gunshot wound in his left 
arm, necessitating amputation on the battle- 
field, after which he was taken a distance 
of twenty miles to the hospital at Atlanta, 
suffering intensely on the way. He re- 
mained in the hospital until October 23, 

1864, when he was sent with others in freight 
cars to Chattanooga, Tenn., and was finally 
discharged at Columbus, Ohio, January 25, 

1865, on account of disability resulting from 
wounds received in battle. 

Mr. Cordes then returned to Harrisburg, 
and after a short stay entered Crittenden's 
Commercial College, Philadelphia, where he 
took a course in bookkeeping and telegraphy, 
which he completed in December, 1865. 
Through the friendly endorsement of Hon. 
J. D. Cameron he obtained a position in the 
service of the Northern Central Railroad 
Company, and was stationed at Harrisburg; 
after six months he was sent to Marysville, 
Perry county, Pa., where he remained two 
and a half years. In September, 1868, he 
was located at Millersburg, and has been in 
the employ of the same company at that 
point ever since. 

Henry Cordes was married, December 25, 

1866, to Kate, daughter of John and Cathe- 
rine (Sweigert) Shoader. Two of their chil- 
dren are deceased : John Henry, at the age 
of nineteen days, while Catherine Cecilia, 
who was bom December 20, 1868, died 
March 27, 1895. Those who survive are 
also two in number: Florence Victoria, 
barn June 8, 1872, wife of Benton M. Jury, 
of Millersburg, Pa., and Warren Ray, born 
January 9, 1875. 

Mr. Cordes is a Republican. In 1892 he 
was elected to the office of director of the 
poor for a term of three years, and in 1895 
was re-elected to the same office. He has 
been the commander of Post No. 212, G. A. 
R., at Millersburg for fifteen years, and still 
holds that office. He is a member in good 
standing of Lodge No. 183, I. 0. 0. F., at 



Millersburg. Mr.. Cordes and his family at- 
tend the Lutheran church. 

John Shoader, father of Mrs. Cordes, died 
Januaiy 4, 1875. His wife survives him. 
Their children are: Frederick G., married 
Kate Harm ; Kate, Mrs. Cordes ; John H., 
married Mary Flickinger ; Harry B., mar- 
ried Lydia Hamilton ; Elizabeth, wife of 
Willis Shearer; William B., married Annie 
Flickinger, and Mary B. Mr. Shoader 
served in the United States navy during the 
Mexican war. 

Henry Luebken, uncle of Mr. Cordes, with 
whom the latter resided when he first came 
to America, and from whom he learned his 
trade, emigrated to this country in 1832. 
He had learned baking in his native land, 
and was one of the first bakers in Harris- 
burg. He married Margaret Walters, daugh- 
ter of Philip Walters. 

Henry and Margaret Luebken had twelve 
children, all of whom died in childhood, the 
eldest having lived to be eighteen years of 



Rickert, John, farmer, was born near 
Gratz, Lykens township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., January 4, 1829 ; son of Henry and Sarah 
(Romberger) Rickert. Adam Romberger, 
maternal grandfather of John Rickert, mar- 
ried Mary Werner. She died, and he was 
married the second time to Miss Paul. He 
was the father of twenty-four children, twenty 
of whom were girls. Henry Rickert, father 
of John Rickert, died aged sixty-five years, 
five months and fifteen daj's ; his wife died 
at the age of eighty-three. Their children 
were: Elizabeth, Hannah, Mary, William, 
John, Sarah, Rebecca, Jonas, and Lucetta. 

John Rickert was only a few years in the 
public schools of his native township, re- 
ceiving a limited education. He was early 
thrown upon his own resources, and began 
to earn his livelihood at nine years of age. 
He first hired out to do farm work for Daniel 
Leopold, Lykens township, for three years, 
receiving one dollar a month for the first 
year, two dollars a month for the second 
year, and three dollars a month for the third 
year. For the next three years he was with 
George Rutter, in Armstrong Valley, Halifax 
township ; after this he was in the service of 
the Summit Branch Railroad Company until 
1854. He worked the next year at tbe'saw 
mill of Benneville, Witmer & Co., Millers- 
burg; then a year for the Northern Central 
Railway Company. After this he was en- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1083 



gaged in various occupations until 1859. 
From that year until 1862 he worked for 
Peter Berl, Georgetown, Northumberland 
county. 

On October 18, 1862, Mr. Rickert enlisted 
at Harrisburg for three years in company H, 
One Hundred and Forty-seventh Pennsyl- 
vania infantry, veteran volunteers. The 
regiment was sent from Harrisburg to Har- 
per's Ferry, thence to Dumphreys, thence to 
Wolf's Run Shoals, thence back to Dum- 
phreys, thence to Chancellorsville, thence to 
Acquia Creek, and to the battlefield of Get- 
tysburg, where they remained a few days. 
Here Mr. Rickert received a dangerous 
wound in the groin and was sent to the hos- 
pital at Washington, where he lay two days 
and two nights, and was then sent to Tener's 
Lane Hospital at Philadelphia, where he was 
under treatment for six months. When dis- 
charged from the hospital Mr. Rickert re- 
joined his regiment at Bridgeport, Ala., and 
moved with it to Lookout mountain, thence 
to Chattanooga, from which point they set 
out on the Atlanta campaign. The regiment 
then moved with Sherman's army and shared 
in the encampments, marches and battles 
which have become famous in histoiy. It 
went down to the sea and up the Atlantic 
coast, was at the final surrender and marched 
in the grand review at Washington, D. C. 
It was finally mustered out and the men 
honorably discharged July 15, 1865. 

After his discharge Mr. Rickert was em- 
ployed by the Summit Branch Railroad Com- 
pany on the road for nine months, after 
which he was transferred to the round house, 
where he remained about one year. In the 
spring of 1867 he removed to Halifax town- 
ship, and farmed one year for Sawyer & 
Read ; then, returning to Millersburg, was 
employed by N. C. Frick & Co. for two years ; 
after that, until 1890, he was engaged in a 
variety of occupations. In 1890 he was put 
upon the pension roll. In 1877 he bought 
the ground and built the house where he 
now has his residence. 

Mr. Rickert was married, July 31, 1853, to 
Sarah Ann, daughter of Abel and Mary 
(Keiter) Palmer. They have five children : 
Benjamin Franklin, born June 23, 1854, 
married Lizzie Keagy ; John Hemy , born July 
28, 1857, married Hannah Litich; Elizabeth 
Salome, born October 3, 1859, wife of John 
Crawley ; George McClellan, born March 17, 
1862, married Annie Sharon ; James Mon- 
roe, born July 7, 1866, married Marj' Carl. 



Mr. Rickert is a Republican. He attends 
the Reformed church, and his wife the Lu- 
theran. 

Abel Palmer, father of Mrs. Rickert, died 
aged about seventy. His wife is still living. 



Bender, William, wheelwright and car- 
penter, was born in Armstrong Valley, 
Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 17, 1842. He is a son of Leonard 
and Elizabeth (Shoop) Bender. 

Adam Bender, his great-grandfather, kept 
a hotel at Halifax, and later removed to 
where Elizabethville now stands. John 
Bender, grandfather of William Bender, 
married Elizabeth Gipple. They had six 
children : Leonard, John, Elizabeth, Bar- 
bara, Katie, and Nancy. John Bender laid 
out the town of Elizabethville, and named 
it for his wife Elizabeth. Leonard Bender, 
father of William Bender, was born in 1811, 
and is living at the time of this writing. 
His wife, Elizabeth Shoop, died February 
2, 1872, at the age of fifty-four. They had 
six children : Samuel, married Barbara 
Shraeder; William; Susan, wife of Isaac 
Keiter; Sarah, deceased, wife of Emanuel 
Hoover ; John, married Sarah Snyder, who 
died, and he married Sarah Warfel, widow 
of James Warfel ; Louisa, deceased, wife of 
David Griesemer. 

William Bender was at school for a few 
months of each year until he was fifteen ; 
but his periods of attendance at school alter- 
nated with seasons of busy employment, and 
from his sixteenth to his twenty-first year 
his time was wholly taken up with assisting 
his father, both on the farm and in the 
wheelwright shop. He thus acquired a 
practical knowledge of both agricultural and 
mechanical business. Thinking it well to 
try work away from home he was for a little 
less than a year in the employ of the North- 
ern Central Railway Company, after which 
he worked for a time with Levi Straw at 
carpentry. 

On September 6, 1864, Mr. Bender en- 
listed at Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, in Capt. 
Solomon B. Bowerman's company A, Two 
Hundred and Tenth regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, under Col. William Sar- 
geant. The regiment was sent to the 
Armj' of the Potomac, and assigned to the 
Third brigade, Second division, Fifth corps. 
It was ordered from Baltimore to City Point, 
and from City Point to the front of Peters- 
burg, where it remained during the opera- 



1084 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



tions at that point daring 1864 and 1865. 
\ In the following spring the regiment was 
sent to Fort Stedman, thence to Hatcher's 
Run, thence to Gravel Hun, where they 
lost their colonel, William Sargeant, thence 
to Five Forks, thence to Appomattox, 
where they remained for three days, thence 
to Petersburg, thence to Richmond, thence 
to Fredericksburg, thence to Harper's Ferry, 
thence to Arlington Heights, and thence by 
way of Washington to Harrisburg, where, 
the war having ended, the regiment was 
honorably discharged. 

Mr. Bender, after his discharge, returned 
to Jackson township, spent a short time at 
home, and was then for about six months 
in the employ of the Northern Central 
Railway Company. Then for six months 
he worked at his trade with George Yeager, 
at Millersburg, after which he engaged at 
carpenter work with Theodore Dechant, and 
remained with him during the summer of 
1866. The next year and up to the spring 
of 1867 he spent with, his father, working 
on the farm or in the shop, wherever his 
help was most needed. After a short visit 
to Michigan, from which he returned in the 
the following June, he was again engaged 
at his trade until 1871 ; in the spring of 
that year he was occupied throughout the 
season with the building of a barn on his 
father-in-law's farm, in Halifax township. 
In the winter of 1871-72 Mr. Bender 
bought a tract of land at Lenkersville, near 
Millersburg, where he built his present 
homestead, to which he removed in the 
spring of 1873, and which has been his 
residence ever since. 

For the next six years Mr. Bender was 
employed by David Kuhns, in carpenter 
work, and for three years after that by Mr. 
Bell, in bridge building. He then again 
worked for Mr. Kuhns, as a carpenter, and 
later did the same kind of work for Benja- 
min Jury. For four years he was again em- 
ployed by the Northern Central Railway 
Company, then engaged for the third time 
with Mr. Kuhns, carpentry ; then he worked 
for John R. Miller, and afterwards engaged 
in carpentry on his own account. 

William Bender was married, September 
16, 1866, to Mary E., daughter of Jonathan 
and Joanna Hoffman. Mr. and Mrs. Ben- 
der have five children : Emma L., born 
August 19, 1867, wife of Clinton Tobias, 
has five children, two of whom are de- 
ceased. Ralph Lester, born September 3, 



1866, died September 3, 1890, and Mary 
Edna, born February 27, 1888, died June 
24, 1888, also Anna Dora, born November 
18, 1887, Harry Edwin, August 28, 1890, 
and Mark, June 1, 1895; Charles Irwin, 
born July 14, 1869, married Lizzie Bilger; 
Annie Dora, born May 6, 1871, wife of 
Ramsey Beller, has two children, Rose M., 
born September 29, 1890, and Esther May, 
May 24, 1891 ; Harry Edwin, born April 3, 
1875 ; and Sarah Florence, born February 
13, 1885. 

Mr. Bender is a member of Kilpatrick 
Post, No. 212, G. A. R., at Millersburg, and 
is a pensioner of the late war. He is a Re- 
publican. The family attend the Lutheran 
church. 

Jonathan Hoffman, father of Mrs. Bender, 
died June 29, 1884, aged seventy-two ; his 
wife died December 30, 1893, aged sixty- 
nine years, six months and two days. 
They had twelve children: Nicholas, Mary 
E., James, Charles, Isaac, Daniel, Samuel, 
Jacob, Sarah, Susan, John, and Wellington. 



Ritzman, Andrew, farmer, was born on the 
homestead in Upper Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., February 18, 1829 ; son of 
Adam and Mary (Hawk) Ritzman. Andrew 
Ritzman, Sr., grandfather of Andrew Ritzman, 
Jr., and his wife Margaret, had two children, 
Adam and Daniel. Adam Ritzman, father of 
Andrew Ritzman, Jr., died in September, 
1873, aged seventy-four. His wife was a 
daughter of Matthias Hawk. They had 
eleven children, of whom four are deceased : 
David, Annie, Jonas, and Martha. The sur- 
vivors are : Catherine, wife of Daniel Collier ; 
Susanna, wife of Christopher Yeager; Lavinia, 
wife of Jonathan Roedel ; Andrew ; Eliza- 
beth, wife of Moses Koppenhaffer ; Hannah, 
wife of William Moyer ; and Mary, wife of 
John Mattis. 

Andrew Ritzman, Jr., received the amount 
of school education which falls to the lot of 
the farmer's boy when his services are early 
needed on the farm ; it was ended by the 
time he was eighteen, after which he devoted 
all his time to farm work. After he became 
of age his father employed him regularly as 
a hand, paying him at first five, and after- 
wards eight dollars per month. He con- 
tinued to work for his father on these terms 
until he was twenty-seven years old. A 
new contract was then entered into, under 
which he was to cultivate the home farm on 
shares; this arrangement was continued for 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1085 



eight years. In 1865 Mr. Ritzman entered 
the employ of the Northern Central Railway 
Company as assistant section foreman and 
removed his family to the neighborhood 
of Millersburg. After serving as foreman for 
six years he was put on the gravel or repair 
train and was for five years in that position, 
making eleven years of service with the com- 
pany. His father having died during that 
time Mr. Ritzman bought the farm of the 
estate and resumed farming in 1878. The 
farm comprised one hundred and seventy- 
one acres, on which he has made valuable 
improvements, erecting his residence in 1890 
and adding other improvements which have 
greatly enhanced the value of the property. 
By energy, enterprise and judicious manage- 
ment Mr. Ritzman has made his farm one of 
the best in the Lykens Valley, and is justly 
ranked among the most intelligent farmers 
of the township. 

Andrew Ritzman was married, November 
20, 1856, to Susanna, daughter of Joseph and 
Elizabeth (Schaeffer) Seiler. They have one 
child, Mellie A^irgie, born January 20, 1873. 
Mr. Ritzman and his family attend the Lu- 
theran church. In politics he is an ardent 
Democrat. 

Joseph Seiler, father of Mrs. Ritzman, died 
at the age of about seventy-one years. His 
wife died aged fifty-six. Two of their twelve 
children, Elizabeth and Sarah, are deceased. 
Those surviving are : John; Moses; Susanna, 
Mrs. Ritzman ; Michael ; Rebecca, wife of 
Isaac Osmond ; Phoebe, wife of Reuben Reu- 
benthal ; Lydia, wife of Charles Snively ; 
Kate, wife of Louis Epply ; Abby, wife of Eli 
Charles; and Joseph Albert. The maternal 
grandparents of Mrs. Ritzman were Michael 
and Sarah Schaeffer. 



Koppenhaffer, Moses, farmer, was born 
in Mifflin township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
July 25, 1831. He is a son of Jonathan and 
Catherine (Hopner) Koppenhaffer. Michael 
Koppenhaffer, his grandfather, married 
Catherine Garrett, and they had a family of 
sons and daughters. Jonathan Koppen- 
haffer, father of Moses Koppenhaffer, died 
July, 1890, aged eighty-eight years and six 
months; his wife died in April, 1885, aged 
about seventy-two. They had eleven chil- 
dren : Emanuel, Angeline, Moses, Sarah, 
George, John, Elizabeth, Catherine, Mary 
Jane, Emeline, and Rebecca. 

Moses Koppenhaffer received his first 



school instruction in the subscription schools 
of his native township ; later he attended 
the public schools for a part of each year 
until he was twenty-one, being throughout 
those years of much assistance to his father 
in the work of the farm. After reaching his 
majority he served a two years' apprentice- 
ship at stone mason work with Solomon 
Schaeffer, Northumberland county; after 
which he worked at his trade as a journey- 
man for about five years. At twenty-nine 
years of age Mr. Koppenhaffer went back to 
the homestead under an agreement with his 
father to cultivate the farm on shares for 
three years. In 1860 he removed to his 
father-in-law's farm in Upper Paxton town- 
ship, under an agreement similar to that 
which he had made with his father, which 
was the usual share and share arrangement 
between owner and renter. In this case it 
proved so satisfactory that it was continued 
for twenty-two years, and at the death of his 
father-in-law, Mr. Koppenhaffer made a simi- 
lar engagement for two years more with his 
mother-in-law. In 1874 he bought the farm 
at the administrator's sale and has had his 
residence there since that time. 

Moses Koppenhaffer was married, Feb- 
ruary 15, 1855, by Rev. Frederick Woltz, to 
Elizabeth, daughter of Adam and Mary 
(Hawk) Ritzman. Mr. and Mrs. Koppen- 
haffer have had thirteen children, two of 
whom are deceased : Ann Tourney, died aged 
three weeks ; Hiram, born June 23, 1856, 
was accidentally killed at Sunbury, Pa., 
while coupling cars, October 27, 1890. He 
was employed as yardmaster by the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company. Their surviv- 
ing children are : Adeline, wife of John Row, 
had six children ; Agnes, wife of Edwin Eby ; 
Sarah Elizabeth, born December 1, 1860, 
wife of Charles Holtzman ; Ann Eliza, born 
July 5, 1862, wife of Henry Rumberger; 
Charles Milton, born July 10, 1863, married 
Agnes Stratzer, had two children ; Ebbie 
Jane, born May 28, 1866, wife of C!a} r ton 
Lenker, has seven children ; Mary Ellen, 
born February 17, 1868 ; Augustus EdAvin, 
born March 17, 1870, married Lettie Stepler, 
has two children ; Angelina, born October 
5, 1871, married Harry Wise, has one child ; 
Anna Verdilla, born October 10, 1S73, and 
Carrie Malinda, born April 17, 1877. 

Mr. Koppenhaffer is a Republican ; he is 
at present supervisor, having been elected 
for one year. He and his family attend the 
Lutheran church. 



1086 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Feidt, Simon, farmer, was born in Upper 

Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., near 

the Mifflin township line, January 25, 1829, 

and is a son of George and Susanna (Lenker) 

'Feidt. 

George Feidt, his grandfather, married a 
Miss Snyder, and had six children : John, 
George, Daniel, Peter, Thomas, and Katie, 
who married William Lenker. George 
Feidt, Jr., father of Simon Feidt, was born 
November 26, 1800, and died July 7, 1862. 
He married Susanna Lenker, born May 4, 
1800, died March 27, 1885. Four of their 
twelve children are deceased, two, who were 
twin daughters, lived only twelve hours, and 
died unnamed ; Amanda, born April 8, 1841, 
died March 12, 1843; Emanuel, born Janu- 
ary 30, 1825, died February 9, 1896 ; he mar- 
ried Amanda Smith in Illinois; Emanuel 
died in Texas, having removed, about 1892, 
from Nebraska, where he owned a tract of 
one hundred and sixty acres of land, on 
which his only child, John Henry, resides. 
The surviving children of Mr. and Mrs. 
George Feidt, Jr., are : William, born Octo- 
ber 13, 1826, resides at Salem, Ore., married 
a widow, Mrs. Krauch ; Simon ; Sallie, born 
November 11, 1830, wife of David Negley, 
has five children ; Hannah, born October 3, 
1832, widow of Isaac Lenker; Mary and 
Leah, twins, born November 20, 1834 ; Mary, 
married J. W. Orndorff, has nine children ; 
Susanna, born April 18, 1837, wife of Jonas 
Diebler, has one child living ; Lydia, born 
May 22, 1839, wife of Henry Walborn. 

Simon Feidt had little experience in his 
youth to put him in contrast with other 
farmer boys. Winter school and summer 
work were his lot until he became of age ; at 
that time he arranged with his father to re- 
main at home to assist in or take charge of 
the farm w r ork, as his father might require, 
for which services he was to be paid $100 a 
year. Both parties were satisfied, and the 
agreement stood until Simon was thirty-two 
years old, when the contract was changed, 
and he took the farm on shares for six years. 
During this time, in 1867, Mr. Feidt bought 
a farm of Benjamin Miller, in Upper Paxton 
township, to which he removed his family in 
1S68 and began a career of successful farm- 
ing. In 1874 he sold this farm to John 
Mattis, and in 1875 rented and removed to 
the Emanuel Hoy farm ; in the autumn of 
the same year he purchased this farm at ad- 
ministrator's sale. At the cost of much labor 
and money he has greatly improved the 



place, erecting suitable buildings and adding 
to the extent of the farm. In 1889 he bought 
fifty-two acres additional from Christian 
Hoy's administrator, which, with the origi- 
nal tract, makes one hundred and four- 
teen acres. This tract, by Mr. Feidt's indus- 
try, skillful tillage and good management, 
has been brought into the best condition. 
On it he has made his residence up to the 
present time. 

Simon Feidt was married, November 14, 
1861, to Sallie H03', daughter of Christian 
and Leah (Novinger) Hoy. They have three 
children: James Peter, born September 8, 
1866, married Sarah W. Shreffler, January 
18,1896; George Harvey, born November 
13, 1868, married Lillie A. Lebo in Novem- 
ber, 1889, has two children, William Elmer, 
and Mary Esther ; Christian Walter, born 
December 26, 1874. Mr. Feidt is a Democrat. 
He and his family attend the Reformed 
church. 

Christian Hoy, father of Mrs. Feidt, died 
December 31, 1888, aged seventy years, five 
months and thirteen days. His wife died 
June 29, 1881, aged sixty-three years and 
two days. Seven of their thirteen children 
are deceased: Samuel, died in infancy ; Vesti 
Jane and Mary Jane, twius ; David ; Eliza- 
beth ; Ann, wife of John Diebler, Mifflin 
township ; Emanuel, married Emma Cathe- 
rine Diebler, had three children ; the father, 
mother and one child, died within a period 
of five weeks; Susanna, wife of Daniel S. 
Feidt, had four children. The surviving 
children of Mr. and Mrs. Hoy are: Sallie, 
Mrs. Feidt; James Peter, married Amanda 
Wert, has four children ; Christian Alfred, 
married Katie Freimoyer, has four children ; 
Charles Edwin, married Mary Weaver, has 
six children; Leah Catherine, wife of George 
G. Snyder, has four children ; Ida Rebecca, 
wife of Charles Dreibelbiss, has two children. 
Peter Hoy, grandfather of Mrs. Feidt, mar- 
ried Susanna Lebo; they had thirteen chil- 
dren, Katie, Jacob, Rebecca, Henry, Peter, 
Polly, John, Elizabeth, Susanna, Daniel, 
Sallie, Christian. 



Mark, Adam Ellenbekger, was born on 
his grandfather's farm, near Belle Grove, 
Lebanon county, Pa., September 7, 1827. 
The grandfather, Henry Mark, died com- 
paratively young, but his wife lived to the 
advanced age of ninety-one years. John 
Mark, father of Adam Mark, married Cathe- 
rine Ellenberger ; they had seven children : 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1087 



Daniel, married Jane Hain ; Adam E.; Sarah 
E., wife of Abraham Herr ; George E., mar- 
ried Priscilla Maulfair; John E., married 
Mary Maulfair ; Eliza E., wife of John Light, 
and Amos E., married Susan Miller. 

Adam E. Mark spent his youth on his 
grandfather's farm, and, like most farmer 
boys, received such instruction as could be 
obtained in schools open for only a few 
months during the winter season; during 
the remainder of the year he was busied 
with such farm work as can be done by a 
bright, active boy. It was thought desirable 
to give Adam a trade ; he was accordingly 
apprenticed to a harness maker at Jones- 
town. He had been but a short time in the 
shop when his plans were changed, and he 
returned to Belle Grove, and entered the 
store with his brother David, where he con- 
tinued for three years. At this time his 
brother died, and Mr. Adam E. Mark bought 
the brother's interest in the store, and con- 
tinued the business for two years longer. In 
1857 Mr. Mark disposed of his business and 
removed to Millersburg, where he was em- 
ployed by his cousin, G. M. Brubaker, as 
clerk for five or six years. By this time he 
was ready to begin business again on his 
own account, so he bought back his former 
store at Belle Grove, which he continued for 
three years, and then returned to his cousin, 
and was employed as clerk for two years. 
During this time the death of his father-in- 
law, Jacob Light, occurred at New Market 
Forge, Lebanon county, Pa., and opened the 
way for him to engage in mercantile busi- 
ness at Syner P. 0., near that place. He 
carried on that business for about two years, 
then sold the store, and in 1867 returned the 
third time to Millersburg, entered into part- 
nership with his cousin, Mr. Brubaker, in the 
iron and hardware business at that place, 
and continued in the firm until about 1875. 
Then the partnership was dissolved, and Mr. 
Mark bought a part interest in the general 
store of John R. Bowman, with whom he 
continued in business until he was elected 
manager and bookkeeper by the Millersburg 
Standard Axle Works. This' position he 
held until his death, which occurred January 
3, 1881. 

Adam E. Mark was married, March 22, 
1855, to Sarah A., daughter of Jacob and 
Mary (Longenecker) Light. Their children 
are : Carrie Irene, born December 9, 1862, 
died February 14, 1863, being the only de- 
ceased child of the family ; the surviving 



children are : Clara Alice, born September 
30, 1856, wife of Jacob Buck, had one child, 
Odessa Mark, born October 10, 1877, died 
August 11, 1878 ; Cora Catherine, born April 
24, 1860, wife of F. H. Wingert, has two 
children, Ruth Irene and Daniel Mark; 
Mary Jane, born April 15, 1864; Jennie 
Light, born September 7, 1866 ; Sarah Ann, 
born February 10, 1869, wife of William 
Begar, had one child, Pauline; Warren 
Light, born July 1, 1871 ; Elma Edna, born 
August 16, 1874, and Martha Eve, born 
October 3, 1876. 

Mr. Mark was a Republican, and , with his 
family, was a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church. That lie enjoyed sub- 
stantial prosperity and stood high in the 
community, was due to his own faithful and 
persevering efforts and to the courageous 
determination which never forsook him, 
even in times of adversity. He was an 
earnest and consistent Christian, a good citi- 
zen, a devoted and affectionate husband and 
father, and deservedly enjoyed the confi- 
dence and esteem of all who knew him. 

The parents of Mrs. Mark are both de- 
ceased. They had nine children, four of 
whom are deceased : Jacob ; Annie ; Harry, 
married Louisa Early, and died leaving nine 
children; and Elizabeth, wife of William 
Carmany, left one child. The surviving 
children of Mr. and Mrs. Light are: Maria, 
wife of Oliver Bowman, has five children; 
Fannie, wife of Peter Horst, has had thirteen 
children, of whom five are living; Sarah A., 
Mrs. Mark ; Cyrus, married Martha Traf- 
ford, has four children ; John, married 
Eliza Mark, has nine children, eight boys 
and one girl. Samuel Light was the grand- 
father of Mrs. Mark. 



Miller, Daniel Newton, farmer, was 
born near his present residence in Upper 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., No- 
vember 22, 1858 ; son of Andrew and Sophia 
(Clouser) Miller. 

Daniel Miller, his grandfather, married a 
Miss MiJIer, who was not a relative. They 
had seven children: Jeremiah, Andrew, 
Catherine, Elijah, Hannah, Peggy, and Sam- 
uel. Andrew Miller, father of D. N. Miller, 
died in March, 1867, aged about forty -two. 
His wife, Sophia (Clouser) Miller, survives 
him. They had eight children: Sarah Ellen, 
wife of Aaron Weaver ; Mary Jane, married 
to Jacob Dreibelbiss', has six children ; Daniel 
Newton ; Sophia Agnes ; Alfaretta, married 



1088 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



George Dreibelbiss, they have five children ; 
Emma Catherine, married to Samuel Weaver, 
has six children ; Frederick Uriah, married 
Annie Lucker, has three children ; and Annie 
Irene. The parents of Mrs. Miller, Mr. and 
Mrs. Clouser, had three other children : Henry, 
Maria, and Zachariah, who died in infancy. 

Daniel Newton Miller was left an orphan 
at an early age, and had to make his own 
living soon after his father's death. Both be- 
fore and after his father died he attended the 
common schools of the township a few weeks 
of each year, but he was obliged to work on 
the farm during the busy seasons, and thus 
earn his own support. From the age of eigh- 
teen until he was twenty-one he was em- 
ployed as a teamster; after that he began 
farming on his own account by renting land 
to farm on shares. He was fortunate in 
making this arrangement with a man like 
Mr. Jacob Weaver, who let him have a farm 
on these terms, and continued the contract 
with him for over ten years. Mr. Weaver 
had so much confidence in young Miller and 
cherished so friendly a spirit toward him, 
that he made provision in his will whereby 
Mr. Miller might become owner of the farm 
on easy conditions by paying out the inter- 
est of other heirs of the estate as he could 
conveniently do so. When the farm in this 
way came into his possession, Mr. Miller 
planned and executed substantial and valu- 
able improvements ; he has by industrious 
and skillful cultivation made it one of the 
best farms in Lykens Valley. 

Daniel N. Miller was married, January 22, 
1879, to Sarah Ellen, daughter of Philip and 
Susan (Fegley) Schaffer. They have had 
nine children : Jacob Edward, born October 
1,1879; Jennie Catherine, born January 3, 
1882; Philip Andrew, born April 6,1884; 
Susan May, born May 2, 1 886 ; Charles Nevin, 
born December 28, 1887 ; William Newton, 
born May 21, 1890; Paul Shaffer, born Feb- 
ruary 2, 1892 ; Addie Esther, born March 15, 
1893, and Ralph Theodore, born July 24, 
1895. Mr. Miller is a Democrat; he has 
served one term as auditor of the,. township. 
He and his family attend the Reformed 
church. 

Adeline Fegley, grandmother of Mrs. Mil- 
ler, is still living at the age of eighty-three ; 
her husband, Henry Fegley, died aged about 
eighty years. They have eight children liv- 
ing. Philip and Susan Shaffer, Mrs. Miller's 
parents, have seven children : Elizabeth, wife 
of Charles Etzweiler ; William, married Ida 



Frank; Sarah Ellen, Mrs. Miller; Adeline; 
Harry, married Lydia Hoffman ; Maurice ; 
Catherine, wife of Edward Kachner. 



Holtzman, B. W., retired merchant, was 
born in Washington township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., September 12, 1845 ; son of John 
and Elizabeth (Warner) Holtzman. His 
grandfather, George Holtzman, had a family 
of seven children. John Holtzman, father 
of B. W. Holtzman, was born March 2, 1796, 
and died April 25, 1875. His wife, Eliza- 
beth Warner, was born March 16, 1808, and 
died February 13, 1867. They had seven 
children, two of whom are deceased : Joseph, 
who died May 4, 1857, and Hannah ; she 
was the widow of Benjamin Riegle, Jr., by 
whom she had four children. She was mar- 
ried again, to Daniel Carl. The surviving 
children of Mr. and Mrs. John Holtzman 
are: Elizabeth, married George Longabach, 
has five children ; John, married Susanna 
Weaver, had two children ; she died, and he 
married Sarah Schreffler, by whom he had 
three children; Mary, -married Henry Bona- 
witz, had three children ; Susanna, married 
Thomas Swab, had three children, all of 
whom are deceased, and B. W. 

B. W. Holtzman took the regular course of 
instruction in the public schools of his town- 
ship ; at the age of sixteen he entered the 
Millersburg high school, which he attended 
for three terms. He then taught school for 
one term in his native township, after which 
he attended the State Normal School at 
Millersville, Lancaster county, Pa., for one 
term. Returning home he taught school 
for three terms at the Holtzman school 
house, one term at the Zimmerman school 
house, and later two terms again at the 
Holtzman school house, near his home. In 
1869 he removed to Upper Paxton town- 
ship and taught the Pleasant Hill school 
five consecutive terms; then the Risiug Sun 
school for five terms; then returned to 
Pleasant Hill and taught two terms more; 
then taught the Feidt's school for one term, 
after which he taught five consecutive terms 
at the Fairview school. In 1877 Mr. Holtz- 
man removed to his present homestead, 
which he had built the year before, and 
where he afterwards embarked in mercan- 
tile business. He continued in the business 
at Killinger for about eight years, then he 
closed out his store and spent some time in 
giving instructions in vocal music, which he 
had made his study from early boyhood. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1089 



In 1892 he bought the farm of Widow 
Sheesley, formerly the property of the Re- 
formed church at Killinger. 

Mr. Holtzman was married, January 2, 

1868, to Mary, daughter of George and Cathe- 
rine (Dreibelbiss) Wert. They had one 
child, Honora Hortensia, born January 19, 

1869, died March 22, 1868. 

Mr. Holtzman is a Democrat. He was 
appointed postmaster at Killinger under 
President Cleveland's first administration ; 
was re-appointed in 1893, and still holds the 
same office. He has served one term as jus- 
tice of the peace and several terms as asses- 
sor in Upper Paxton township. Mr. Holtz- 
man and his family attend the Lutheran 
church. 

The parents of Mrs. Holtzman are both 
deceased. They had four children : Delilah, 
married to J. H. Rowe, has three children ; 
Mary, Mrs. Holtzman ; Malinda, who was 
one of twins, married to John E. Wiest, the 
other twin child died. The grandfather of 
Mrs. Holtzman was John George Wert, who 
married a Miss Miller. 



Beard, Robert, farmer, was born near 
Hanover, York county, Pa., October 18, 
1826 ; son of Robert and Magdalena (Marks) 
Beard. Robert Beard (1), his grandfather, 
had a family of five children : Robert, Jo- 
seph, James, John, and one daughter. Robert 
Beard (2) was born April 19, 1796, and died 
June 5, 1854. He was a charcoal burner 
until he was about thirty-seven years old, 
when he removed to Upper Paxton town- 
ship and began farming. His wife, Magda- 
lena Marks, was born March 17, 1804, and 
died March 18, 1872. They had thirteen 
children, five of whom are deceased : Will- 
iam, died aged nine years; one child died in 
infancy, unnamed ; John, died aged forty- 
five, leaving a wife and children ; Elizabeth, 
wife of Moses Witrner; Sarah, wife of Uriah 
D. Free, left four children. The surviving 
children of Robert and Magdalena Beard 
are: Robert; Harry, married Hannah Over- 
holtzer, had two children ; Albert ; Stephen ; 
Edward, married Catherine Keefer ; Carrie, 
married to Jesse Seal, has three children ; 
Maggie, married to Emanuel Witrner ; Mary, 
married to George Noll. 

Robert Beard (3) attended the subscription 
schools in his native township until he was 
about twelve years old. The family then 



removed to Upper Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., where he studied at pri- 
vate schools for several years, and was sub- 
sequently in the public schools until he was 
about eighteen ; during this time he also 
rendered his father valuable assistance in 
the farm work. He remained with his father 
until he was twenty-two, and then sought 
employment away from home. He first 
worked a few months in the summer of 1849 
for Thomas Feaney, in Halifax township, 
receiving as wages $9 per month. His father 
after this proposed to him to work on the 
home farm again, and offered him $100 per 
year. This offer he accepted, and the ar- 
rangement proving satisfactory, it was con- 
tinued until he was twenty-eight years of 
age. At this time the father died and Mr. 
Beard began farming the homestead farm 
on shares, continuing on these terms until 
the autumn of 1856, when he purchased the 
farm from the administrators of his father's 
estate. It comprised one hundred and fifty- 
six acres, of which thirty-six acres were 
woodland. He remained there three years, 
and then sold the farm and removed to 
Millersburg, where he lived one year, and in 
the year 1860 removed to the farm of George 
Marks, near Millersburg, where he lived one 
year. After this he bought a farm of eight\ 7 - 
five acres in Perry county, to which he re- 
moved, and which he cultivated for twenty 
years. In 1881 Mr. Beard came back to 
Dauphin county and located on his present 
homestead of ninety-eight acres, which has 
been his home since that date. 

Robert Beard married, February 28, 1855, 
Levina, daughter of George and Elizabeth 
(Kramer) Noll, born November 11, 1831. 
Their children are : Oliver Franklin, born 
November 10, 1856, married Annie Bern- 
heisel, of Perry county, Pa., has three chil- 
dren, Florence, Mabel, and Ralph; John 
Milton, born November 6, 1858, married Ida 
M. West, lias five children, Albert, Clarence, 
Walter, Norman, and Annie; Charles E., 
born October 12; 1862, married Clara J. 
Longabach ; George Christian, born April 
21, 1866, married Clara V. O'Neil, has one 
child, Guy C, born March 22, 1895 ; Sarah 
Emma, born April 16, 1869. Mrs. Beard 
died November 3, 1882. Mr. Beard finds the 
Democratic part}' the nearest right, and 
therefore supports its men and measures. 
The fa.mil} 7 attend the Reformed church. 
Mrs. Beard's parents had twelve children: 



1090 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Joseph; Emanuel; John; Daniel; Jacob; 
Aaron ; George ; Angelina ; Lavina, Mrs. 
Beard ; Polly ; and two died very young. 

Gilbert, Frederick R., merchant tailor, 
was born at Loyalton, Dauphin county, Pa., 
November 16, 1825 ; son of John and Eliza- 
beth (Rathron) Gilbert. His great-grand- 
father, Samuel Gilbert, was born in Germany, 
August 10, 1743, and died in Upper Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, April 8, 1826. 
He came to America with two brothers in 
1752. He married Catherine Saul, born 
December 11, 1757, died June 11, 1806. She 
was a daughter of Nicholas Saul, who resided 
near Jonestown, Lebanon county, and later 
removed to Lykens Valley, where he died in 
1814. Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Gilbert had 
three children. Jacob Gilbert, grandfather 
of F. R. Gilbert, was born April 2, 1783. 
He was prominent both in business and in 
politics, and was a member of the State 
Legislature during the early history of the 
State. He first married Elizabeth Long ; 
they had six children : Samuel, John, Jacob, 
Sarah, Catherine, and George. Mrs. Eliza- 
beth Gilbert died, and Mr. Gilbert was united 
in second marriage to Elizabeth Mark. John 
Gilbert, father of Frederick R., married 
Elizabeth Rathron ; they had four children : 
Frederick R.; Elmira, widow of Michael 
Ward ; Henry L., and Jeremiah S. Mr. and 
Mrs. John Gilbert are both deceased. 

Frederick R. Gilbert was brought by bis 
parents to Upper Paxton township in his early 
childhood, and there attended the public 
schools until he was sixteen, at which time he 
began to learn tailoring with Jacob Ziegler, at 
Millersburg, Pa. After an apprenticeship of 
four years, he was employed for one season by 
Judge Walker, at Sunbury, Pa. In 1846 he 
went to St. Joseph, Mo., where he worked at 
his trade as a journeyman until the spring of 
1847. He then returned to Millersburg, Pa., 
and began the tailoring business on his own 
account. He was very successful, and later 
added a general dry goods business. In 1884 
he erected the large and convenient building 
on Market street, which now accommodates 
his extensive trade, and where he carries a 
full stock of clothing and dry goods, and 
enjoys his full share of the patronage of the 
surrounding territory. 

Mr. Gilbert has been prominent in numer- 
ous important enterprises in Dauphin and 
other counties. He was one of the original 
movers in the establishment of the Millers- 



burg Bank, having drafted the constitution 
and by-laws of that institution ; his draft was 
adopted by the board of directors with the 
change of but one word ; he afterwards served 
some years as director of the bank. He was 
one of the organizers of the Mifflin and Pat- 
terson Water Works, at Mifflin, Pa., and at 
Steelton, Pa., a stockholder in both, and 
elected president of both corporations, in 
which position he served several years. From 
1868 to 1884 Mr. Gilbert and his family re- 
sided on his Mt. Pleasant farm ; since then 
their home has been in Millersburg. Mr. 
Gilbert has experienced the ordinary vicissi- 
tudes of a business life, and he has steadily 
persevered, meeting adversity bravely, and 
enjoying prosperity without undue elation. 
The outcome of his enterprise and prudence 
is an ample competence for himself and his 
family. 

Mr. Gilbert was married, January 1, 1846, 
to Sarah Ann, daughter of David and Annie 
(Osmond) Ditty, born January 14, 1827. 
Three of their seven children are deceased : 
Mary Elizabeth, born April 23, 1851, died 
October 9, 1851 ; Mary Alda, born June 10, 
1852, died August 28, 1874, was the wife of 
Noah H. Day, and had four children, two of 
whom died in infancy; the survivors are 
Frederick G., born August 28, 1869, and 
Jennie V., born January 3, 1873. The de- 
ceased mother was an earnest Christian, 
faithful to all her duties as wife and mother, 
an active worker in the Methodist Episcopal 
church, loved and honored by all who knew 
her; Hodson, born September 2, 1860, died 
June 16, 1882, married Emma Forsyth, had 
one child, Sadie E., born July 26, 1881, died 
March 27, 1887. The surviving children of 
Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert are: Charles Steinman, 
born September 10, 1849, married Elizabeth 
Gleim, had nine children, one that died in 
infancy, and Charles S., Virginia, Grace, 
Martha W., Herbert S., Robert B., Florence,- 
and Frederick Gleim; John Frederick, born 
January 14, 1851, married Belle Kelley, of 
Selinsgrove, Pa., has one child, Mabel ; Annie 
Elizabeth, wife of Oliver Day, born April 17, 
1858, has three children, Sadie, Hodson, and 
Gilbert ; Clara Irene, born June 5, 1862, wife 
of Thomas Long, has seven children, Helen, 
Fanny, Fahy, Nellie, Eveline, and two that 
died in infancy. 

Mrs. Gilbert died January 5, 1881. She 
was affectionate and faithful as wife and 
mother, active and devout in her religious life, 
and beloved by all who knew her. Mr. Gil- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1091 



bert's second marriage, October 4, 1890, was 
to Miss Clara A. Wagner, who was born in 
West Beavertown, Snyder county, June 17, 
1856. She was a daughter of Abraham and 
Sabina Wagner ; the former of Snyder county, 
the latter of Mifflin county, Pa., and both 
now deceased. No family has been born to 
the second union. 



Gilbert, Samuel E., farmer, was born on 
the old homestead in Upper Paxton town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., July 31, 1840. 
He is a son of Samuel and Sarah (Enter- 
line) Gilbert. Samuel Gilbert was born Oc- 
tober 2, 1805, and died December 4, 1S86. 
His wife, Sarah Enterline, daughter of 
Michael Enterline, was born December 20, 
1805, and died August 6, 1875. Three of 
their children are deceased: Jacob, born 
January 3, 1836, died October 5, 1837 ; Sa- 
lome, born February 1, 1843, died August 5, 
1849; Henry, born March 6, 1845, died Au- 
gust 12,1845. Their living children are: 
Elizabeth, born July 27, 1828, wife of George 
Diebler ; Catherine, September 30, 1831, wife 
of Casper Heckert ; Sarah, October 13, 1833, 
wife of Aaron Schreffler ; Minerva, Febru- 
ary 22, 1838, wife of Emanuel Emerick ; 
and Samuel E. 

Samuel E. Gilbert attended the public 
schools of his township part of each year 
until he was twenty-one, and assisted his 
father in the farm work during the busy 
seasons. He became of age in 1861 and 
must seek some business of his own. Find- 
ing that his father was ready to afford him 
a chance on the home farm, he entered into 
an agreement to farm it on shares, and this 
agreement lasted until 1875. Those were 
years of hard work, but the farming was 
skillfully conducted, and the returns most 
economically used, so that at the end of 
fourteen years Mr. Gilbert found himself 
with sufficient money in hand to buy a farm 
of his own. Of all the land for sale the 
property that he preferred and could secure 
on the most favorable terms was the one he 
had been so long cultivating. His father 
was willing to sell, so Samuel E. became 
owner of the homestead, comprising one 
hundred and twenty-five acres. Mr. Gilbert 
now set about the cultivation and improve- 
ment of his farm with, if possible, increased 
diligence. His judicious and careful man- 
agement has brought the farm and all its 
appurtenances to a high degree of excellence, 



and has placed Mr. Gilbert among the most 
prosperous farmers of the township. 

Samuel E. Gilbert was married, May 6, 
1861, to Susan, daughter of Joseph and De- 
lilah (Yeager) Nace. They have had four 
children, of whom one is deceased, Cathe- 
rine, born November 1, 1862, died Septem- 
ber 6, 1886, wife of Oliver Holtzman, had 
two children, James Samuel and one that 
died in infancy. The surviving children of 
Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert are : Laura J., born 
December 6, 1864, wife of Ira Holtzman, has 
six children, Lester, Susan, Sarah, Mabel, 
Florence, and George; Savilla, September 
20, 1867, wife of George Shaffer, has two chil- 
dren, Laura and Annie ; Carrie, Jauuary 3, 
1870 ; Salome, July 13, 1874. 

Mr. Gilbert is not too busy with his own 
affairs to pay a little attention to public mat- 
ters. He is interested in politics and acts 
with the Republican party. He served on 
the school board for six years, during which 
term he was secretary of the board; he has 
also served one term as supervisor. Mr. Gil- 
bert and his family attend the United Breth- 
ren church. 

Joseph Nace, father of Mrs. Gilbert, died 
December 28, 1891, aged seventy-seven years, 
four months and five days. His wife sur- 
vives him. Of their nine children, three 
are deceased : Sarah, Elizabeth, and John. 
The living children are : Susan, Mrs. Gil- 
bert ; Kate, wife of Lawrence Lebo; Jane; 
Enoch, married Sarah Bowerman ; Ben- 
jamin, married Louisa Hopple, and Sarah, 
wife of Samuel Sweigert. The grandfather 
of Mrs. Gilbert was David Nace. He mar- 
ried Sarah Linger, and after her death was 
married a second time. 



Forney, Jacob H, stone mason and 
farmer, was born near Killinger P. O., 
Upper Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., October 3, 1851 ; son of George and Re- 
becca (Sultzbach) Forney. His grandfather, 
Jacob Forney, had a family of nine chil- 
dren : Christian, Sall} r , Susanna, Polly, John, 
George, Peggy, Catherine, and Amanda. 
George Forney, father of Jacob H., was born 
February 16, 1828, and died February 1, 
1868. His wife was born April 14, 1827, 
and died March 21, 1883. They had three 
children : Jacob H.; Mary J., born March 7, 
1856, wife of Alfred Seiler, has three chil- 
dren ; and Amanda Alice, born November 
18, 1865, died November 17, 1890 ; first mar- 



1092 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ried to Charles Stroup, who died ; afterwards 
to Charles Diebler, and they had three chil- 
dren. 

Jacob H. Forney was educated in the com- 
mon schools of his township, which he at- 
tended a part of each year until he was eigh- 
teen. He was industrious and made him- 
self useful to his father in farm work and in 
various other ways. In his nineteenth year 
be began to learn the trade of stone masonry 
with William Seal, Upper Paxton township, 
at which he served an apprenticeship of 
three years, making himself thorough mas- 
ter of his trade. It is an evidence of his 
proficiency that Mr. Seal retained him for 
ten years as a journeyman. At the end of 
that time he engaged in business on his own 
account for some time ; he was also for a 
while in the employ of Isaac Maris, a con- 
tractor. The excellence of Mr. Forney's 
work is visible in a number of public struc- 
tures on which he was engaged in the con- 
struction of the masonry. Among these 
may be named the following : The bridges 
at Rockville, Susquehanna township; at 
Harrisburg, and across Pine creek, near 
Gratz; Diebler's bridge, in Upper Paxton 
township, and Bechtel's bridge, in Washing- 
ton township. The workmanship of Mr. 
Forney is prominent also in important pri- 
vate buildings, especially the masonry in the 
foundations of large barns. Among these 
may be named some of the largest barns in 
the township, as those of John Diebler, 
Henry Williards, William Lehman, and Mrs. 
Catherine Wert. He was also engaged on the 
masonry of the Catholic church at Williams- 
town, the church at Lykens and the school 
house at Uniontown. In 1834, finding it de- 
sirable to change his occupation, Mr. Forney 
laid down the stone hammer and trowel and 
began farming the Paul place, in Upper Pax- 
ton township, where he remained two years. 
This experiment in agriculture proving suc- 
cessful, he concluded to buy a farm, and in 
1886 he bought ninety-eight acres of land, 
which he has so judiciously improved and 
so carefully and skillfully tilled as to bring 
it to a high degree of excellence, and to 
make his homestead one of the most flour- 
ishing and attractive farms in this region. 
Jacob H. Forney was first married, March 
20, 1876, to Sallie, daughter of William J. 
and Elizabeth Weaver. They had five chil- 
dren, of whom two are deceased : Minnie, 
born July 2, 1878, died at the age of three 
years, and an infant. The surviving chil- 



dren are : Anna Nora, born October 18,1876 ■ 
Sallie M. and Marie, twins, born June 5. 
1885 ; they are so alike in appearance that 
the parents often fail to distinguish them. 
Mrs. Forney died June 17, 1885, twelve days 
after the birth of the twins. Mr. Forney was 
again married, March 20, 1886, to Lisle, 
daughter of Andrew and Lydia (Schreffler) 
Woland. Mr. Forney is a Republican. The 
family attend the Reformed church. 

Andrew Woland, father of Mrs. Lisle For- 
ney, died January 9, 1886, aged sixty-three. 
He had a family of five children : John ; 
Henry; Lisle, Mrs. Forney; Amelia, wife of 
William H. Seal ; and Lydia, residing in 
Harrisburg, Pa. Andrew Woland, grand- 
father of Mrs. Forney, married Elizabeth 
Ditty. Their children are : Solomon, Jacob, 
John, Andrew, Katie, Polly, Adelia, and 
Mrs. Bowerman. 



Lentz, Augustus D., farmer, was born in 
the Mahan tango Valley, in Upper Paxton 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., January 25, 
1846; son of David and Salome (Wert) 
Lentz. Frederick Lentz, his grandfather,' 
married Sarah Fetterhoff; their children 
were: Michael, John, Samuel, David, An- 
drew, Kate, Sallie, and Henry. David 
Lentz, father of Augustus D., was born 
January 16, 1814, and died September 28, 
1891. He married Salome Wert, born Sep- 
tember 18, 1817, and died April 17, 1884. 
Their deceased children are : five that died 
in infancy, unnamed ; Andrew Philip and 
John Henry, twins ; Susanna, and Resissa. 
Their living children are : Augustus D., and 
John H., married Loanda Hoffman; their 
children are : Resissa Viola, Anna Verdilla, 
and Abby Sabina. 

Augustus D. Lentz attended the public 
schools of his native township, and in early 
boyhood began to help his father on the 
farm. After his school days were over he 
devoted all his time to work on the home- 
stead until he was about twenty-two. He 
then made a contract with his father to take 
charge of the homestead and farm it on 
shares ; this arrangement continued for 
twenty-six years. In 1878 Mr. Lentz 
bought his present homestead, consisting of 
ninety-one acres, and removed to it the 
same year. He has made upon it many 
substantial improvements; in 1894 he en- 
larged and remodeled his house. He has 
paid especial attention to fruit growing, and 
has one of the largest and best orchards 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1093 



in his section of the country. This place 
is his present residence. Mr. Lentz was 
married, May 21, 1868, to Rebecca, daughter 
of Abraham and Anna (Bitterman) Miller. 
Their children are : Andrew Philip, born 
February 22, 1869, at present a student at 
Mt. Airy Seminary, in preparation for the 
ministry, having been graduated at Muhlen- 
berg College, Altoona, Pa., in 1895 ; Salome, 
born August 27, 1870, wife of David Spatz, 
has two children, one of whom, Daisy 
Alberta, died at two years of age; the other 
is Mabel May. The other children of Mr. 
and Mrs. Lentz are : Anna, born April 6, 
1872; Mary, May 5, 1874; Wesley, June 6, 
1876; Katie, August 27,1878; Mabel May, 
October 13, 1880 ; Clinton Wellington, April 
12,1882; Grant, June 19,1884; and Will- 
iam Clayton, September 7, 1888. Mr. Lentz 
is a Republican ; he has served as tax col- 
lector of Upper Paxton township for one 
term. He and his family attend the Lu- 
theran church. 

Abraham Miller, father of Mrs. Lentz, 
was born December 3, 1800, and died Janu- 
ary 31, 1867. His wife, Anna Bitterman, 
died October 31, 1889. Three of their five 
children have passed away : Philip, Daniel, 
and Abraham. Their surviving children 
are : John, and Rebecca, Mrs. Lentz. Mr. 
Miller had previousl}- married Maria Motter, 
by whom he had six children. The grand- 
father of Mrs. Lentz is Balthasar Miller. 
He married Barbara Witman; their chil- 
dren are : David ; Joel ; Catherine ; Barbara; 
Elizabeth ; Annie, the mother of Mrs. Lentz; 
and Polly. John Miller, brother of Mrs. 
Lentz, enlisted in company B, Ninth regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania cavalry, and served 
about four ^ ears. 



Freeland, George W. P., was born Feb- 
ruary 7, 1842 ; son of James and Hannah 
(Patton) Freeland. James Freeland was a 
prominent citizen. He served twice in the 
State Legislature, first in the session of 1852 
and again in 1862-63. He died March 28, 
1882. His wife, Hannah Patton, died Janu- 
ary, 1891. They had nine children: Will- 
iam Henry and Winfield Scott, deceased; 
Thaddeus, married Mary Dechert, has two 
children ; George W. P.; Henry, married 
Annie Motter, has seven children ; Mary, 
wife of John Vallerchamp, has seven chil- 
dren ; James, married Lizzie Brubaker, has 
four children ; John, married and lives in 
Arizona ; Hannah, wife of Nathaniel Frick. 



George W. P. Freeland enlisted at Camp 
Curtin, Harrisburg, Pa., September 11, 1862, 
in company E, Eighteenth Pennsylvania 
cavalry, under Lieut. Col. James Gowan. 
The regiment was moved to Camp Simmons, 
thence to Bladensburg, thence across the 
Long Bridge to Washington, D. C, thence 
to Pine Woods Camp, thence to Fairfax Court 
House, where Mr. Freeland was discharged 
on account of disability. On April 20, 1863, 
he was promoted from corporal to third ser- 
geant of his company. Upon his discharge 
he returned home to Halifax township and 
resided with his parents until 1867, when he 
removed to Upper Paxton township, near 
Millersburg, where he was engaged in farm- 
ing for about eighteen years ; after that time 
he removed to his rjresent residence. 

Mr. Freeland was married, September 6, 
1866, to Julia A., daughter of James and 
Susan Lear Martin. Mrs. Freeland was born 
in York county, Pa., September 22, 1840. 
In early childhood she resided with her par- 
ents in Harrisburg, Pa., and for several years 
attended the public schools of that city. The 
family then removed to Zanesville, Ohio, 
and she was in school there ; later she was 
for one year at the academy at Dayton, 
Ohio. During the two years following she 
resided with her parents in Missouri; in 
1854 or 1855 they returned to Susquehanna 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., afterwards 
removing to Millersburg, where they spent 
five years. In 1860, the family removing to 
the homestead, she lived there about eight 
years. They then removed to the vicinity of 
Millersburg, where they remained eighteen 
years. In 1887 Mrs. Freeland took up her 
residence at the old homestead, where she 
has ever since resided. Mr. and Mrs. Free- 
land attended the Methodist church. His 
politics were Republican. 

James Martin, father of Mrs. Freeland, was 
born May 26, 1803, and died March 28, 1873. 
His wife was born June 4, 1813, and died 
May 28, 1884. They had nine children: 
John H., deceased, born August 16, 1836; 
Juliana, born September 22, 1840 ; James, 
deceased, born July 22, 1842 ; Henry Clay, 
deceased, born July 10, 1844; Perry, born 
February 20, 1846 ; Adam, deceased, born 
December 29, 1848 ; Atkinson, born May 16, 
1851; Mary Jane, born December 13, 1853; 
and Theodore, born April 25, 1856. 

Mr. Martin was a railroad contractor and 
built several railroads in Missouri and other 
States. He constructed one mile of the 



1094 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Northern Central railway between Millers- 
burg and Georgetown, Pa., in which business 
he was brought into close eontact with Hon. 
Simon Cameron. He was formerly interested 
in political affairs in Dauphin county, was 
elected sheriff on the Republican ticket in 
1844 or 1845 and served one term in that 
office. His son, Henry Clay Martin, enlisted 
in company E, Eighteenth Pennsylvania 
cavalry, under Lieut. Col. James Gowan. 
He served as orderly to Dr. Mark ley. The 
grandfather of Mrs. Freeland married Keziah 
Atkinson. They had a family of sons and 
daughters. 

Feidt, David E., cabinet maker and fur- 
niture dealer, Millersburg, Pa., was born in 
Upper Paxton township, February 17, 1844, 
and is a son of Peter and Elizabeth (West) 
Feidt. The father died March 25, 1889, at 
Millersburg, and the mother died in Febru- 
ary, 1848. Their children are: Daniel S., 
Nathaniel, David E., Peter F., and one who 
died in infancy. The father married, sec- 
ondly, Susanna Weaver, daughter of Jacob 
Weaver, by whom lie had two children : 
Aaron and Katherine. Mrs. Feidt's par- 
ents are both deceased, the father having 
died in 1867, aged sixty-two years, and the 
mother passed away at the age of forty-one 
years. Their children were: David, Isaac, 
Harriet, Catharine, and Mary. David E. 
was left an orphan at the age of four years 
and attended the public schools until he was 
fifteen years of age. He then worked for 
his cousin, William E. Lenker, on the farm 
for two years, when he began the cabinet 
making trade with Josiah Weaver, at Ber- 
rysburg, with whom he worked three years. 
He was then employed with Mr. Bittenben- 
der, of Shamokin, Pa., and subsequently re- 
turned to Millersburg. On March 20, 1865, 
he engaged in cabinet making and in the 
undertaking business. He soon discontin- 
ued the latter branch of business and en- 
gaged extensively in handling furniture un- 
til 1869, when he sold his interest to George 
Neagley. He remained with Mr. Neagley, 
however, as salesman until 1873, when he 
again purchased the business, which he still 
conducts. He was married, March 4, 1869, 
to Miss Mary Neagley, daughter of George 
and Charlotte (Kintzle) Neagley. Their 
children are: Howard N, born August 9, 
1870, and died October 24, 1872 ; and Carrie 
M., born June 17, 1875. Mr. Feidt is a 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 183, I. 



0. 0. F., of Millersburg, and in politics is a 
Republican. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Feidt, Daniel S., farmer, Millersburg, 
Pa., was born in Upper Paxton township, 
January 19, 1839. He is a son of Peter and 
Elizabeth (West) Feidt, who was a daughter 
of Daniel and Susanna (Shoop) West. The 
grandfather, George Feidt, was married to 
Rachel Snyder, by whom he had six chil- 
dren: John, George, Daniel, Catharine, 
Peter, and Thomas. The father by his first 
marriage had a family of four children : 
Daniel S., Nathaniel, David, and Peter. He 
married, secondly, Miss Susanna Weaver, 
who died in 1881, leaving two children, 
Aaron and Catharine. The parents of Mrs. 
Feidt had a family of thirteen children, 
seven of whom survive: Sallie, Peter, Al- 
fred, Charles, Leah, Catharine, and Ida. 

Daniel S. received his education in the 
public schools of his native township. He 
was then engaged in farming until the war 
broke out, when he enlisted September 19, 
1861, in company B, Ninth Pennsylvania 
cavalry. After serving faithfully in various 
parts of the field and taking part in numer- 
ous engagements he was honorably dis- 
charged at King's Bridge, Ga., December 
24, 1864. On May 6, 1865, he returned to 
Upper Paxton township, and in 1866 en- 
gaged as a sawyer for ten years. In 1876 
he bought a farm on which he resided until 
1882, when he moved to his father's farm, 
where he remained five years. He next 
moved to the F. R. Gilbert farm which he 
purchased and resided thereon until 1893, 
when he moved to his present home. He 
was married, March 10, 1867, to Miss Anna 
Hoy, daughter of Christian and Leah (Nov- 
inger) Hoy. Their children are: Emma D., 
born April 7, 1868 ; Wilson W., born May 
31, 1871; Leah A., born August 3, 1874; 
and Sadie E., born September 11, 1876. 
His wife was born January 29, 1841, and 
died November 19, 1891. She was a con- 
sistent member of David's Reformed church, 
at Killinger's. He is a Republican in poli- 
tics and has served as school director, asses- 
sor three terms, and assisted in 1890 to take 
the census. He is connected with Lodge 
No. 183, I. O. O. F., Millersburg, and Kil- 
patrick Post, No. 212, G. A. R., Millersburg. 
He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1095 



Ulrich, Marion, M. D., Millersburg, Pa., 
was born at Selinsgrove, Snyder county, Pa., 
December 25, 1850. He is a son of John and 
Matilda (Gauglar) Ulrich. The grandfather 
was Benjamin Ulrich and was married to 
Miss Elizabeth (Houseworth) Ulrich. The 
maternal grandfather was Daniel Glass and 
was married to Miss Polly (Herrold) Glass. 
They had eight children : William A., 
George W., John D., Mary, Frederick C, 
Henry A., Adam, and one who died in in- 
fancy. The mother has passed away, but 
the father, born in 1815, still survives. Their 
children are: Diana, Louisa, Maria, Izora, 
Marion, Henry, Reuben L., George R., Eliza- 
beth M. Mrs. Ulrich's father survives, but 
her mother has passed away. They had four 
children : Mary M., one who died at the age 
of four years, and two who died in infancy. 

Marion received his primary education in 
the public schools of Selinsgrove, which he 
attended until he was sixteen years old. He 
then entered the Missionary Institute of the 
same place, which he attended until 1873. 
In 1874 and 1875 he taught school in Penn 
township, at the old Kautz school house. He 
then taught at various places until 1877, 
when he began to read medicine under Dr. 
J. W. Sheets, at Selinsgrove. He then at- 
tended the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons at Baltimore, Md., from which institu- 
tion he graduated March 3, 1880. He located 
in Killinger, April 20, 1880, and was soon 
successful in establishing a large practice. 
October 20, 1887, he moved to Millersburg, 
where he has since resided. He was mar- 
ried, October 26, 1880, to Miss Mary M. Glass, 
daughter of George W. and Delilah (Knight) 
Glass. Their children are : George M., who 
was born June 25, 1887, and died October 
20,1887; and Annie C, born February 11, 
1883. Dr. Ulrich is a Republican in politics 
and also a member of the Dauphin County 
Medical Society. He and his family are 
members of the Lutheran church. 



Brubaker, George M., son of George and 
Sarah (Mark) Brubaker, was born July 19, 
1824, in Millersburg, Dauphin county, Pa. 
His grandfather, David Brubaker, of Ger- 
man ancestry, resided near Millersburg on a 
farm. He married a Miss Dover, and of 
their children, Jacob, born in 1795, learned 
the trade of a tanner, located some years in 
Chambersburg, Pa., then in 1822 removed 
to Millersburg, where he died in 1838. Jacob 
Brubaker married, in 1823, Sarah Mark, of 



East Hanover township, Lebanon county, 
who survives. Of their children who reached 
mature age were George M. and Margaret 
R., who married a Mr. Eberly. George M. 
Brubaker received a common school educa- 
tion and spent several years in clerking. 
He subsequently, in connection with his 
stepfather, Simon West, engaged in the tan- 
ning business, which was continued until 
1847. He then began merchandising and 
in 1864 made the hardware business a 
specialty. Mr. Brubaker married, first, 
February 12, 1850, Eliziabeth, daughter of 
George Beaver, of Perry county. She died 
July, 1856, and their children were : Clara, 
George, Mary, and Charles. He was mar- 
ried, a second time, in July, 1857, to Mary, 
daughter of Jacob Lime, of Schuylkill 
county, and their children were: Albert, 
William, Sarah, John, Wood, Mark, and 
Ray. Mr. Brubaker was the first president 
of the Lykens Valley Bank, now the First 
National Bank of Millersburg, and was also 
one of the founders of the Miners' Deposit 
Bank of Lykens. He is a gentleman of 
enterprise and public spirit, and prominently 
identified with the leading industries of the 
Upper End. 



WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP. 



Stroup, John C, M. D., Elizabeth ville, 
Pa., was born in Elizabeth ville, Dauphin 
county, Pa., January 8, 1859. He is a son 
of Dr. John B. and Saloma (Shellenberger) 
Stroup. Peter Stroup, grandfather of Dr. 
John C. Stroup, was a native of Juniata 
county, Pa. He was a farmer and black- 
smith ; he died at the age of forty. His wife 
lived to be eighty -two years of age. Their 
children are : Samuel, was a farmer and 
blacksmith in Turkey Valley, Juniata 
county, up to 1889, when he removed to 
South Bend, Ind., and worked at his trade 
until 1894 ; then returned to Pennsylvania 
and resides with his sons ; he is seventy-six 
years old ; Nathan, a farmer in Juniata 
county ; two daughters ; John B.; Peter, a 
blacksmith, met his death at forty years of 
age riding across a bridge in Juniata county ; 
he was a soldier in the late war; was wounded 
in the leg. The majority of the family are 
Democratic in their political views. The 
maternal grandfather of Dr. J. C. Stroup was 
Christian Shellenberger. He and his wife 
were natives of Juniata county, and both died 



1096 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



at Richfield, in that county, the grandfather 
aged seventy-six, the grandmother seventy- 
eight years. They left a family of nine sons 
and three daughters, most of whom are now 
living in Juniata county. 

John B. Stroup, M. D., father of Dr. John 
C, was born in Juniata county in March, 
1831, and was reared there. His father died 
young and left him a poor boy, dependent 
on his own resources for his education. He 
worked by day and applied himself to books 
at night, and in this way prepared himself 
to teach. At' the age of sixteen he took 
charge of a school in Juniata county, and 
subsequently taught in Oldtown, Clearfield 
county, Pa., finally locating in Richfield, 
Juniata county. Here he Began the study 
of medicine under Dr. Werner, with whom 
he continued three or four years. He then 
entered the University of Pennsylvania, from 
which he subsequently graduated. He lo- 
cated at Richfield and assisted Dr. Werner 
fur. several years, after which he came to 
Elizabethville, and was the first physician to 
locate in that town. He was also the only 
surgeon of prominence in that part of the 
county, and was frequently called into con- 
sultation with Dr. Rutherford and Dr. Du- 
nott, both eminent surgeons of Harrisburg. 
He was often invited to locate in larger 
places, where there would be a wider field 
for the exercise of his professional ability. 
He was noted as being skillful in operating 
on cancer, and was also very successful in 
other critical cases. Dr. John B. Stroup was 
married in Juniata county to Saloma Shel- 
lenberger. Their children are : Mary Alice, 
wife of Edwin Swab, Lykens, Pa.; Fanny 
Catherine, wife of William Reitz, Rebucks, 
Northumberland county, Pa.; Dr. John C; 
an infant, died unnamed ; Salome, wife of 
Charles Lenker, Halifax, Pa.; Dr. Clement 
B., druggist, Elizabethville, married in March, 
1885, Lizzie A. Bonawitz. 

John C. Stroup first attended the common 
schools of his native town, and was subse- 
quently a pupil in the Berrysburg Seminary, 
from 1878 to 1882 ; he was also at school at 
South Bend, Ind., for eight mouths. In 
1883 he entered Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia, and was graduated in the fall 
of 1885, after which he located at Elizabeth- 
ville, where he has built up an extensive 
practice. In 1887, in connection with his 
brother Clement B., he bought the drug 
store of Jonas Gorman, and continued a 
member of the firm until June, 1895, when 



he sold his interest in the store to his 
brother, the growing demands of his practice 
not leaving him time for other business. 
Dr. Stroup is a Democrat. He is at present 
postmaster at Elizabethville, having been 
appointed to the office April 20, 1894. On 
April 1 of the same year he was appointed 
county jahysician for the outdoor poor, which 
office he held one year. He served as first 
judge of elections of the borough. He be- 
longs to the Jefferson Alumni Association. 
For three years he was a member of the 
Patriotic Order Sons of America. Dr. Stroup 
was married in Northumberland county, 
Pa., March 31, 1891, to Miss Mollie E., 
daughter of William Deppen, deceased, and 
his wife Elizabeth, and a native of that 
county. They have two sons: Bryant De 
Costa, born Julv 28, 1892 ; and Paul Eugene, 
born March 25," 1894. 



Dornheim, Prof. Henry G., formerly 
principal of the public schools of Elizabeth- 
ville, Pa., was born in Gratz, Dauphin 
county, Pa., November 7, 1859.- He is a son 
of Rudolph H. and Mary (Row) Dornheim. 
His grandfather, Heinrich Dornheim, was a 
native of Germany. He studied medicine 
and practiced both in Germany and after 
coming to America. He died in Philadel- 
phia while visiting some of his children. 
His wife, Johanna Eleanora Wilhelmina, 
born at Hagenbruch, was a descendant of a 
noble German family. She died at Gratz 
at the age of eighty-five. Their children 
were: Rudolph H; a son who died aged ten 
years; Henrietta, deceased, and Frederica, 
deceased. 

Rudolph H. Dornheim, father of Prof. 
Dornheim, was born in Germany and came 
to America with his parents when he was 
seven years old. His father came first, 
and settled at Gratz, Pa., and shortly after 
sent for his wife and family. Rudolph was 
educated in Gratz, where he also learned 
cabinet making. This has been his occupa- 
tion to the present time. He and his wife 
reside at Gratz. He enjoys the best of 
health, at the age of sixty-five. Their chil- 
dren are: Prof. Henry G. and two daugh- 
ters, one of whom died at the age of sixteen 
and the other in infancy. 

Henry G. Dornheim attended the common 
schools of his native place until he was fif- 
teen, when he entered Berrysburg Seminary. 
After attending that institution for three 
summers, he was graduated in 1879. Dur 




J. C. STROUP, M. D. 




c^^i(^/3c^^5fc 






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^^1 !■&£$> J3fl9 ^Hi 




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yrcL^pr^xj ry. J&tcv-i^J^ //h, Jy 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1099 



ing the winters he taught school ; the first 
term in Upper Mahanoy township, North- 
umberland county, and several subsequent 
terms at Gratz and in ungraded country 
schools. In 1880 Mr. Dornheim entered 
Millersville State Normal School, and was 
graduated in 1883. He also attended this 
school during the summer of 1878. After 
graduating from the Normal school, he be- 
came assistant teacher in the Lykens high 
school, and remained there from 1883 to 
1884. He then opened the Elizabethville 
Seminary as its principal, and during the 
winter was principal of public schools, 
which position he held for three years, 
and then returned to Gratz and took 
charge of the high school for six years. 
At the end of this time, in 1894, Mr. Dorn- 
heim returned to Elizabethville and re- 
sumed his former position as principal of 
the seminary and public schools. He was 
an unsuccessful candidate for county super- 
intendent of Dauphin county in 1893 and 
1896. - On July* 8, 1896, he was elected 
principal of the school of Tremont, Schuyl- 
kill county, where he now resides. 

Henry 6. Dornheim was married, in Lan- 
caster county, Pa., July 3, 1883, to Miss 
Ellen W., daughter of John Frey, and born 
in Lancaster. Their children are : Susan, 
John, Frank R., Cora May, and Oscar E. 

Prof. Dornheim is an independent voter. 
He is an active member of the Lutheran 
church, and is superintendent of the pri- 
mary department of the Sunday-school. 
While residing at Gratz he acted for three 
years as secretary of the Gratz Driving Park 
and Agricultural Society." 



Stroup, Nathan W., M. D., was born near 
Millerstown, Juniata county, Pa., January 
13, 1843 ; son of Samuel B. and Sarah 
(Weller) Stroup. His father, Samuel B. 
Stroup, was born in Juniata county, where 
he grew to manhood and became a farmer 
and blacksmith. In 1876 he removed with 
his wife and family to South Bend, Ind., 
where he now resides. He worked at his 
trade until within a few years. He is at 
present visiting his son. His children are : 
Jane, wife of Henry Lydick, resides near 
South Bend ; Samuel W., farmer, Juniata 
county, Pa.; Wilson W., physician, Harris- 
burg, Pa.; Ellen, wife of Irviu Lydick, near 
South Bend ; Louisa, wife of Daniel Frame, 
South Bend ; John W, wagon maker, South 
Bend ; Annie, wife of Edward Demsey, resid- 
68 



ing near South Bend, Ind. Mr. Samuel B. 
Stroup is a Democrat. When in Juniata 
county he was a member of the Evangelical 
church. He will be seventy -six on the 20th of 
August, 1896 ; his wife is seventy-five years 
old and resides with her daughter at South 
Bend. 

Nathan W. Stroup attended the common 
schools of his native place until he was about 
eighteen, when he entered the McAllister, 
Pa., Academy for one year. He then taught 
school for two terms in Washington town- 
ship, Dauphin county. In 1864 he began to 
read medicine with his uncle, Dr. J. B. Stroup, 
at Elizabethville; remained w T ith him for 
four years and then entered the University 
of Pennsylvania, where he pursued the course 
of study and attended lectures in the medical 
department during the years 1867-68, still 
reading during vacations with his uncle. 
He was graduated from the University in 
March, 1868, and at once began the practice 
of medicine at Elizabethville, where he has 
since continued and enjoys a large and lucra- 
tive practice. 

Dr. Stroup is largely interested in real 
estate. He owns two of the finest farms in 
Washington township, one of one hundred 
and eighty-three acres, the other of one hun- 
dred and sixty-seven; and a farm of fifty 
acres in Jackson township. He also owns 
and occupies one of, if not the most imposing 
residence in Elizabethville. He has a larger 
practice than any other physician in this 
part of the county. 

Dr. Nathan W. Stroup was first married 
in Elizabethville, April 30, 1868, to Sally 
Sausser, a native of Berrysburg, Mifflin town- 
ship, daughter of Michael and Lydia (Moyer) 
Sausser. They had one son, Michael E., 
born August 16, 1873 ; he is a graduate of 
Franklin and Marshall College, and is now 
studying law under Mr. Stranahan, Harris- 
burg, Pa. Mrs. Sally Stroup died August 
5, 1888. She was a devout member of the 
Reformed church and actively interested in 
all charitable enterprises. She is buried in 
the Elizabethville cemetery. Dr. Stroup's 
second marriage took place August 7, 1889, 
in which he was united to Mrs. Susie Al- 
drich, widow of Dr. Allerton Aldrich. 

The Doctor is an independent voter. He 
served as school director for two terms and 
is at present a member of the council. For 
twenty-eight years he has been a member 
of the Reformed church, and has held 
various church offices. 



1100 



Bl GRAPH1 C A L EN CYCL OPEDIA 



Mrs. Stroup, present wife of Dr. Stroup, 
was born in Meadville. Pa., October 20, 1852, 
and is a daughter of Thomas and Rebecca 
(Lewis) Alexandra. She attended the com- 
mon schools of her native place until she 
was fourteen years old; she was then further 
advanced than any of her schoolmates of 
the same age, and was granted a certificate 
to teach. Her father had ample means, but 
held the idea then prevalent that while a 
liberal education is desirable for boys, it is 
not needed by girls ; hence he refused to aid 
his daughter in securing a more thorough 
education. She resolved to secure this with- 
out his assistance, and after receiving her 
teacher's certificate she taught school six 
months and spent the next six months in 
study at Meadville Academy, finishing the 
course at that institution in 1866. She then 
entered the State Normal School at Edinboro, 
Pa., and graduated with first honors. In 
all she has taught school for twenty-two 
years with marked ability, having the same 
uniform success in the University of Ohio 
that characterized her efforts in the rural 
districts, where she taught seven years. 
Mrs. Dr. Stroup taught her first school when 
but fourteen years of age, for $9 per 
month, and was offered the same school the 
following winter at §25 per month. Her 
father laughed at her so much for teaching 
for §9, that one day she remarked : " Well, 
father, you will live to see that sum quad- 
rupled," and it was a prophecy that came 
true, for she held a position for twelve years 
for which she received $650 per year. 

Miss Alexandra was married, at Mead- 
ville, Pa., August 2, 1875, to Dr. Allerton 
Aldrich, son of Judge Thomas Aldrich, of 
Meadville, and a graduate of the University 
of Pennsylvania. They settled at San Fran- 
cisco, Cah, where Dr. Aldrich had previously 
practiced medicine for four years, and where 
he died in 1887, eighteen months after their 
marriage. She was left a widow, with a 
babe six months old, and with no means of 
support for herself and child, the Doctor 
having used the profits of his large practice 
in discharging debts contracted in securing 
his education. Six weeks after the death of 
her husband Mrs. Aldrich started lor An- 
dover, Ohio, where her sister, Mrs. Hampton 
Johnson, now deceased, was then residing. 
The expense of this trip consumed all the 
money she had, and as she did not wish to 
return to her father's home, she naturally 
returned to her old occupation of teaching 



to procure a support. A new brick academy 
was then just completed at Andover, and 
she accepted a situation offered her as 
teacher in the new building ; she retained 
the position for twelve years. During this 
time she graduated from the University at 
Ada, Ohio, where she taught two years. 
While at Andover she was married to Dr. 
Stroup, August 29, 1889. 

Mrs. Stroup's daughter by her first mar- 
riage, Effie Zaletta Aldrich, was born in San 
Francisco, December 1, 1876; she graduated 
in the teacher's course of the State Normal 
School, at Millersville, Pa., in 1895, with 
first honors, and in June, 1896, graduated in 
the scientific course of the same institution. 
She is studying German, French, Latin and 
Greek ; is receiving thorough training in 
music and elocution, and will enter Harvard 
College in the fall of 1897. 

Thomas Alexandra, father of Mrs. Dr. 
Stroup, was born at Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1808, 
and was there educated and grew to man- 
hood. He was married, in Pittsburgh, in 
1832, after which he located at Meadville, 
Pa. He was a large speculator in farming 
lands, and was engaged in raising fine 
blooded stock. He died at Meadville, No- 
vember 10, 1874. His wife died May 18, 
1873. Their children are : Elizabeth, Mrs. 
Hampton Johnson, of Andover, Ohio; Mar- 
tha, Mrs. Reason Bates, State Line, Craw- 
ford county, Pa.; May, deceased ; Mrs. Ben- ' 
jamin Miller, Jamestown, Mercer county, 
Pa.; Jennie, Mrs. Nelson Gallagher, Mercer 
county, Pa.; Sarah, died when three years 
old ; William J., died in infancy ; John B., 
farmer, near Meadville; Samuel, died aged 
three 3'ears; William James, died when one 
year old ; Susie, Mrs. Dr. Stroup.; Florence 
Adela, died aged four years. 

Mrs. John Alexandra, grandmother of 
Mrs. Dr. Stroup, was born in Berlin, Ger- 
many, and belonged to the aristocracy, be- 
ing a daughter of one of the wealthy noble- 
men of that city. Martha Brewer, for that 
was her name, fell in love with John Alex- 
andra, a native of Dublin, Ireland. He was 
a young man of excellent principles, but was 
not one of the wealthy nobility. His devo- 
tion to the beautiful and wealthy daughter 
being bitterly opposed, the lovers only waited 
for an opportunity to sail to America. One 
morning at 4 o'clock a beautiful white steed 
drew up in front of the mansion, and, after 
mounting, Barbara bid farewell to mother 
and home, and, after being married, set sail 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1101 



with her lover for America. They settled at 
Pittsburgh, Pa., where they lived for twenty 
years and amassed a great fortune. They 
sold their possessions then, and moved to 
Meadville, Pa. Their children were : Thomas, 
father of Mrs. Stroup ; Mary, Mrs. James 
White, Jamestown, Pa.; Richard, died aged 
twenty-one; Deborah, Mrs. Williams, de- 
ceased; William, deceased; Martha, Mrs. 
William Betts, resides near Jamestown, Pa.; 
John, farmer at Espenville, Pa. 

Thomas Alexandra, great-grandfather of 
Mrs. Stroup, located at Pittsburgh, Pa., and 
was a noted criminal lawyer of that day. 
He died at an advanced age, about the year 
1854. 



Romberger, Samuel B., was bora in Ly- 
kens township, Dauphin county, Pa., August 
9, 1845. He is a son of Daniel and Hannah 
(Bergstresser) Romberger. His grandfather, 
Adam Romberger, was twice married, and 
had twenty-three children, of whom seven- 
teen, three sons and fourteen daughters, grew 
to" maturity and were married. Adam Rom- 
berger died at Uniontown, Pa., in 1868, aged 
ninety-three, leaving an estate valued at 
$40,000. His second wife preceded him a 
few years in death. His descendants are 
numerous, numbering at the time of his 
death 542, and are scattered over Dauphin 
county. 

Daniel Romberger, father of Samuel B., 
was born in Lykens township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., February 19, 1816. He was 
brought up as a farmer, and was married in 
his native place. He settled on a farm in 
Washington township in 1854, and later 
located on a farm in Berrysburg, where he 
died July 29, 1882. His wife died in Eliza- 
bethville in 1889. Their children were : 
Adam, born August 21, 1839, farmer, North- 
umberland county, Pa.; Edward, born July 
30, 1841, farmer on the old homestead in 
Washington township ; Cyrus, born July 14, 
1843, retired farmer and merchant, Elizabeth- 
ville ; Samuel B.; Josiah, born October 9, 1847, 
with the Reading Railroad Company at Sha- 
mokin, Pa.; John A., born April 21, 1850, 
grain, coal and lumber dealer, Elizabeth- 
ville ; H. Howard, born July 12, 1853, mer- 
chant, Gratz ; formerly an Evangelical 
preacher; Alfred D., born October 9, 1854, 
died September 15, 1857. 

Samuel B. Romberger was of German de- 
scent on his father's side, and on his mother's 
Scotch-Irish. He attended school in his 



native place until he was nine years old, 
when the family removing to Washington 
township his education was finished in the 
common schools there. In his seventeenth 
year he began an apprenticeship at tanning 
with Isaiah Matters, at Uniontown, Pa. He 
served three years, during which time he re- 
ceived $175, which was $40 in excess of the 
original contract. He worked at his trade a 
year and a half in Schuylkill county, Pa. 
He then formed a partnership with Reuben 
Weiser, and established a tanyard at Green 
Briar, Northumberland county, and con- 
tinued in business there two and a half years; 
at the end of this time he bought the tanyard 
known as Stine's plant, above Gratz, Dau- 
phin county, Pa. He operated this plant for 
fourteen years, having sold the one at Green 
Briar. 

In the spring of 1883 Mr. Romberger dis- 
posed of his property in Lykens township 
and located at Elizabeth ville, where he at first 
operated a tannery, but later relinquished 
the business of tanning and dealt in hides 
and tallow. In 1892 he took into partner- 
ship his two sons, Daniel W. and Penrose 
C. This is the pioneer firm in their business 
in this county ; there are but two larger 
dealers in the State. They are operating 
branches at Wilkes-Barre, and Tyrone, Pa. 

Samuel B. Romberger was married at 
Green Briar, Pa., March 12, 1867, to Miss 
Sarah Jane Brower, born in Northumber- 
land county, Pa., October 29, 1847; daughter 
of Nathan and Caroline (Troutman) Brower. 
Their children are : Daniel W., born in Ly- 
kens township, February 23, 1870, was edu- 
cated in the common schools of Gratz and 
Elizabethville, married Sadie Gotshall, has 
three boys, Melvin G, Harold L., and Law- 
rence ; Penrose C, born in Lykens township, 
in 1872, first attended the common schools 
of his native township and of Elizabethville, 
at seventeen years of age he entered the 
West Chester State Normal School, and took 
a commercial course, and then became trav- 
eler for the firm in Pennsylvania, New 
York, Delaware, New Jersey, and Virginia ; 
Elba A., born July 18, 1874, married Feb- 
ruary 11, 1896, to Ammon W. Krebs, resides 
with her father ; Ira P., born in 1875, car- 
ries on a branch of his father's business at 
Wilkes-Barre, Pa.; Ella J., born in 1878, at 
home. 

Mr. Romberger is a Republican. He is 
president of Lykens Valley Fire Insurance 
Company, director of Lykens Valley Tele- 



1102 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



graph and Telephone Company, and of the 
Elizabethville Water Company. He is a 
member and a steward of the Evangelical 
church, and a director of the Maple Grove 
Cemetery Association, of Elizabethville, Pa. 

Swab, Jonas, manufacturer of wagons, 
Elizabethville, Pa., was born in Washington 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., March 18, 
1843. He is a son of Daniel and Sally 
(Heller) Swab. 

Daniel Swab, father of Jonas Swab, was a 
native of Washington township, Lykens 
Valley, and a farmer, born 1814. He died 
on the homestead farm, in Washington town- 
ship, in 1871. He was a staunch Democrat 
and a member of the Lutheran church, and 
was widely and favorably known. His wife 
still survives him and resides in Elizabeth- 
ville. Their children are: Catherine, widow 
of Samuel Snyder ; Thomas, merchant, Valley 
Falls, Kan.; Mary, died aged thirteen ; Jonas ; 
Isaac, foundryman, at Elizabethville, Pa.; 
Sarah, wife of F. L. Koppenheffer, Mifflin 
township, Dauphin county, Pa.; John, on 
the old farm, Washington township ; David, 
wagon maker, Marshalltown, Iowa ; Daniel, 
died at age of fourteen, and Aaron, coach- 
maker, Elizabethville, Pa. 

Jonas Swab attended the common schools 
of his township until he was eighteen. For 
several years in succession before that time 
he assisted his father in clearing six or seven 
acres of new land. He was employed and 
trained as farmer boys usually are. At the 
age of eighteen he began to learn the tan- 
nery business, at Uniontown, Pa., but find- 
ing after a short time that the business did 
not suit him, he abandoned it. He took up 
carpentry and worked at that for a year, and 
then for two years found employment in the 
factory of Riegel & Emerich, manufacturers 
of implements, at Uniontown, Dauphin 
county. 

On September 8, 1864, Mr. Swab enlisted 
at Harrisburg, Pa., in company H, Two 
Hundred and Tenth regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia volunteers. Captain Miller, and went at 
once to the front. The regiment went out 
one thousand strong. When mustered out 
at Arlington Heights, Va., June 7, 1865, 
there were only three hundred and sixty-five 
men on the roll. They had been at the front 
but five days when they took part in the 
battle of Petersburg, and were placed in the 
second line of breastworks. They assisted 
in tearing up the Weldon railroad. Mr. 



Swab, with his regiment, took part in the 
battles of Hatch's Run, Va., October 27, 
1864; second battle at Hatch's Run, Febru- 
ary 5, 1865 ; Dabney's Mills, Va., February 
6, 1865; Gravelly Run, Va., March 3, 1865; 
Five Forks, April 1, 1865 ; and in the sur- 
render of Lee at Claver Hill, Va., April 9, 
1865. At Gravelly Run, in a charge made 
by the regiment in an open field upon what 
was supposed to be a rebel picket, but which 
proved to be the full force of the enemy, 
many of the regiments were shot down and 
many made prisoners. Mr. Swab barely es- 
caped capture. 

Coming home at the close of the war, Mr. 
Swab was employed for five months in the 
implement factory at Uniontown. In the 
spring of 1867 he took a trip westward, as 
far as Omaha, Neb., working for a time at 
several points. In the following December 
he returned home, and in the spring of 1868 
built the works and began the manufacture 
of wagons and implements on his own ac- 
account. After a time he found it advan- 
tageous to drop the implement branch and 
confine his attention to the manufacture of 
wagons. With money saved from his pre- 
vious earnings he built and equipped a large 
plant, which he conducted with growing- 
success. He is widely known as a reliable 
and enterprising manufacturer, and the pro- 
ducts of his factory are sold throughout the 
entire State. 

He manufactures extensively farm and 
spring wagons which are classed second to 
none made in the State. His factory is 
equipped with all the most modern machin- 
ery, and he manufactures every portion of 
wood work and nearly every portion of iron 
work used in the construction of his wagons. 
He employs a large number of hands and 
his factory has not been closed down three 
days in twenty-eight years of business, which 
speaks well for his excellent management. 

Jonas Swab was married, at Elizabethville, 
December 4, 1869, to Miss Ellen S. Mattis. 
Their children are : Bertha L., born in 1876, 
died when four years old ; Etta M., born 
June 5, 1878, attended Millersville State 
Normal School one year, and is now at Irving 
College, in Mechanicsburg, Pa.; Ralph M., 
born in 1883, died when three years old. 

Mr. Swab is a Democrat, but is liberal in 
his views. He is a member of Heilner Post, 
No. 232, G. A. R., at Lykens, Pa. The 
family are connected with the Lutheran 
church. 






DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1103 



Swab, Aaron, coach manufacturer, Eliza- 
bethville, Pa., was born on the old home 
farm in Washington township, Dauphin 
count}', Pa., October 26, 1859. He is a son 
of Daniel and Sarah (Heller) Swab. A 
sketch of his father appears in this volume 
in connection with that of Jonas Swab. 

Aaron Swab was educated in the common 
schools of his native township. He was set 
to work on the farm when quite young, and 
was a very industrious and willing assistant. 
He was eleven years old when his father 
died. From the age of fourteen until he 
was twenty-two, he was employed in the 
wagon factory of his brother, Jonas Swab. 
During his twenty-third year he worked at 
the axle factory, at Millersburg, Pa., after 
which he returned to the employ of his 
brother, and remained with him until 1889. 
During those years of industry, he was fru- 
gal and economical, and had accumulated 
some money. With these savings and a 
little assistance, Mr. Swab ventured to begin 
for himself the manufacture of coaches and 
other vehicles. At his beginning, in 1889, 
hisplant was not large, but he has from time 
to time made substantial additions which 
have greatly increased its capacity. In 
1892 he built two large additions to the 
factory. He now employs eight workmen. 
The products of his factory are known as be- 
ing first-class in material, workmanship and 
finish, and find a wide market in the State. 

Aaron Swab was married, April 20, 1884, 
to Miss Mary J. Uhler. Their children are: 
William A., who died aged nine years ; and 
Galen A., in his second year. Mr. Swab is a 
Democrat. He is now in his second term as 
town assessor. He is a member and an 
elder of the Reformed church. 



Miller, Nathaniel, distiller, was born in 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
November 19, 1837. He is a son of Daniel 
and Catherine (Snyder) Miller. His grand- 
father, John Miller, was born in Northum- 
berland county, Pa. He came to Dauphin 
county and owned and cultivated a farm 
in Jackson township, where he died in 
the early sixties. His wife was a Miss 
Sauler. Their children are: Michael, farmer 
and blacksmith, died aged fifty-five years, 
in Jackson township; Philip, wagon maker, 
died aged eighty-two, in Jackson township ; 
Daniel; John, farmer, residing in Jackson 
township; Elizabeth, Mrs. John Letich, re- 
siding in Jackson township ; Christian B., 



removed from Dauphin county, in 1886, to 
Kansas, where he now lives, and several chil- 
dren who died in infancy. 

Daniel Miller, father of Nathaniel Miller, 
was born in Lower Mahanoy township, 
Northumberland county, Pa., July 10, 1811. 
He was a blacksmith, and followed that 
trade in connection with farming. He also 
conducted a distillery in Washington town- 
ship until the time of his death, which oc- 
curred July 4, 1872. His wife, Catherine 
Snyder, was born June 18, 1808, and died 
December 15, 1884. Their children are : 
Susan, born July 25, 1833, married John 
Frank, resides in Elizabethville.. Pa.; James, 
born February 16, 1835, Elizabethville; 
Nathaniel ; Adam, born July 14, 1841, went 
to Mercer county, and was never heard from ; 
Mary C, born August 17, 1846, married G. 
Hoke, Elizabethville. Mr. Daniel Miller 
was. for many years justice of the peace in 
Jackson township. 

Nathaniel Miller was educated in the 
common schools of his native place. He was 
put to work on the farm as soon as he was 
able to do anything, and assisted at home 
until he was twenty-two, when he hired out 
for two years. He then spent about four 
months in learning the business of distilling 
whiskey. After his marriage he worked for 
two years in his father's distillery. Then 
on account of the high whiskey tax the dis- 
tillery was closed for four years. At the 
end of that time Mr. Miller rented his 
father's property for three years. His father 
died about 1872, when he bought the dis- 
tillery and has ever since conducted the 
business. Mr. Miller owns a farm in Wash- 
ington township, in connection with a 
partner. It includes one hundred and thirty- 
fiveacres, with a gristmill, formerly known as 
Stine's mill. He also owns a farm in the 
eastern part of Washington township, con- 
taining one hundred and twenty-five acres, 
another of one hundred and thirty-five 
acres in Halifax township, and still another 
of one hundred and sixty-three acres near 
Millersburg. 

Nathaniel Miller was married, January 
13, 1867, to Miss Leah, daughter of John M. 
and Elizabeth Novinger Holtzman, born 
September 17, 1835. She died in Washing- 
ton township, Januaiw 12, 1883. Their chil- 
dren are : Jane Alice, born March 13, 1868, 
died March 27, 1869 ; Stephen Allan, born 
September 22, 1870, baggagemaster on the 
Summit Branch railroad, married Anna 



1104 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Beadle; Helen Catherine Elizabeth, born 
December 15, 1876, resides at home. In his 
second marriage, which occurred in Perry 
county, Pa., September 11, 1S83, Nathaniel 
Miller was united to Elmira Bealor, widow 
of William Smith, born in Juniata township, 
Perry county, Pa., April 28, 1849 ; daughter 
of David and Margaret (Smith) Bealor. 
They have one child, Ida Mary, born Sep- 
tember 18, 1884. Mr. Miller is a_ Democrat. 
He is one of the borough council, and has 
been school director for one term. He is a 
member of the Reformed church, and has 
served as deacon. 

Max Bealor, grandfather of Mrs. Miller, 
was a native of Berks county, where he was 
educated and grew to manhood. He mar- 
ried and removed to Perry county, Pa., in 
the early part of this century. He settled at 
Markelsville, where he died about 1850. His 
wife, Catherine Keiser, survived him fifteen 
years. Both were members of the Reformed 
church. Their children are: Mrs. Susan 
McDowell, deceased ; John, deceased, aged 
fifty-five years; David, deceased; Mar- 
garet, deceased, wife of James G. Blaine; 
Sallie and Catherine, died in girlhood ; 
Joseph, deceased ; Mary, maiden lady, died 
in 1892; Benjamin F., died at Markelsville, 
Pa., June 22, 1896, at an advanced age. 

David Bealor, Mrs. Miller's father, was 
born in Brecknock township, Berks county, 
Pa. He came with his parents to Perry 
county at the age of twelve, where they 
settled on a farm at Markelsville, where he 
was brought up. He received two weeks' 
schooling, and had to walk twelve miles to 
school when he did go. At the age of six- 
teen he began to learn masonry, and fol- 
lowed that trade until his marriage. At 
that time he bought a farm on which he 
lived during the remainder of his life. He 
died in 1876, in his eighty-third year. His 
wife, Margaret Smith, was a native of Perry 
county. She died in 1888, aged eighty-one. 
Their children were: Sarah, died in 1895; 
her first husband was George W. Titzel; her 
second, John Christ ; John C., farmer, Blaine, 
Perry county, Pa.; Catherine, Mrs. William 
Sausaman, Harrisburg, Pa.; Elizabeth, Mrs. 
George Ernst, Washington township ; Lydia, 
maiden lady, Harrisburg; Elmira, Mrs. 
Miller; and Martha, maiden lady, Harris- 
burg, Pa. 

Margaret Smith, the mother of Mrs. Miller, 
is descended from English stock. The chil- 
dren of her parents, Daniel and Catherine 



(Ketner) Smith, are: John, died in Missouri, 
in 1884; William, died in Cincinnati, Ohio, 
in the spring of 1895 ; Daniel, farmer, near 
Millerstown, Perry county, Pa.; Elizabeth C, 
Mrs. Seabold, died at Duncannon, Pa., spring 
of 1893 ; Samuel, died about a year after his 
mother, in 1852; Benjamin, died in 1853, 
unmarried ; Margaret, mother of Mrs. Mil- 
ler; Sarah, Mrs. Moses, died at Johnstown, 
Pa., in 1888; Lydia and Catherine, died 
young ; Charles K., farmer, Newport, Perry 
county, Pa. 

Mrs. Miller resided at home until her first 
marriage at Markelsville, Pa. They then 
located at Newport, Pa., where Mr. Smith 
died. He was born in Juniata township, 
Perry county. He was a carpenter, and 
worked at that trade until his death in 1877. 
Their children are : Martha Calista, wife of 
Harry C. Swab, and George B., a farmer, in 
Illinois. 



Millek, James, justice of the peace, Eliza- 
bethville, Pa., secretary and treasurer of the 
Lykens Valley Mutual Insurance Company, 
was born February 16, 1835. He is a son 
of Daniel and Catherine (Snyder) Miller, re- 
ferred to in this volume in connection with 
the sketch of his brother, Nathaniel Miller. 

John Miller, great-grandfather of James 
and Nathaniel Miller, came from Wurtem- 
berg, Germany, leaving at home an elder 
brother, Casper Miller, and settled in Ma- 
hantango Valley, below County Line, Pa., 
where he died and is buried. He married 
a Miss Karstetter. Among the children 
are: Peter, Daniel, John, grandfather of 
James, and Nathaniel. With these three 
sons Mr. Miller's widow came to Armstrong 
Valley. She died at Daniel Miller's, where 
Michael H. Miller now resides. Her remains 
are buried at Fetterhoffs church, below 
Fisherville, Pa. Her son, John Miller, lived 
where Centre View postoffice now is. He 
died there, and is buried at Miller's church, 
near his home. His wife Catherine and 
many relatives are buried there. William 
and Elizabeth Snyder, maternal grandpar- 
ents of James Miller, with some of their 
children, lie buried in the same churchyard. 

James Miller was educated in the old log 
school house of his native place, in Jackson 
township. He was early put to work on the 
farm, and was reared as a farmer's boy. In 
March, 1857, he went West, and spent the 
summer in Ogle county, 111., working a t 
anything at which he could find employ. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1105 



ment. In the fall of that year he returned 
home. James Miller was married, in Jack- 
son township, July 4, 1858, to Miss Sarah, 
daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Hoffman) 
Hoffman, born in Halifax township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., December 6, 1835. 

Their children were : Milton A., born June 
30, 1859, in Jackson township, train dis- 
patcher at Olean, N. Y., on the Western New 
York and Pennsylvania for ten years, mar- 
ried Susan Hoke Leopold, and has one child, 
Ruth; Ellen Victoria, born April 11,1863, 
died September 17, 1863; Agnes Amanda, 
born in Jackson township, July 24, 1865, 
wife of L. U. Bolton, Harrisburg, Pa., has 
three boys, Leroy, Winfred, and Stanley; 
James Melvin ; Elmira Salina, born in Eliza- 
bethville, August 19, 1869, at home; and 
Harvey Monroe, born in Elizabethville, Sep- 
tember 27, 1871. After their marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Miller went to housekeeping in 
Jackson township. During the summer he 
farmed as tenant farmer, and in the winter for 
several terms taught school in Jackson town- 
ship. During the year of the Susquehanna 
floods, 1865, Mr. Miller repaired fences on 
Haldeman's Island, and worked on the re- 
pair train of the Summit Branch railroad, 
teaching school again in the winter. In 
April, 1866, he located in Elizabethville, and 
followed carpentry and farming as a hired 
hand until fall, when he received a certifi- 
cate to teach the town school. He taught 
for that term ; in the following summer he 
acted as clerk for F. Weaver in a general 
store. He taught for a half term afterwards 
in Elizabethville. On March 29. 1869, Mr. 
Miller was elected secretary and treasurer of 
the Lykens Valley Mutual Insurance Com- 
pany, and has continuously held both posi- 
tions since that date. In 1870 he was elected 
justice of the peace, and held that office until 
July, 1885, when he was made postmaster of 
Elizabethville, under President Cleveland. 
He built the postoffice building, and held 
the office until 1889. He was re-elected jus- 
tice of the peace and commissioner for the 
term beginning May 1, 1891, and ending 
May 1, 1896. Mr. Miller is a Democrat, but 
has never sought political preferment. He 
was reared in the Reformed church. 



Swab, Jacob, retired farmer, was born in 
Mifflin townnship, Dauphin county, Pa., 
April 7, 1822. He is a son of Jacob and 
Catherine (Metz) Swab. 



Jacob Swab was educated in private 
schools before the free school system was 
adopted. He had to pay fifty cents per 
month for his tuition. When a mere boy 
he was set at work helping to clear and cul- 
tivate land. He worked at home until he 
was twenty-one, and then started out to 
make a living for himself. He worked on 
rented farms for five years, beginning with 
one in Mifflin township. He then removed 
to Donaldson, Schuylkill county, Pa., where 
he hauled timber to the mines with a 
two-horse team. He also used his team to 
draw cars laden with coal from the mines 
to the Union canal, where it was loaded on 
boats. At the end of five years he bought 
a farm in Porter township, Schuylkill county, 
which he cultivated for thirteen years. Sell- 
ing his farm, he returned to Daaphin county 
and bought another in Washington town- 
ship containing sixty-three acres of land 
and having a good house on it. Here he 
made his home until the spring of 1882, 
when he retired from active business and 
purchased a house and lot in Elizabethville, 
where he has lived since that time. 

Jacob Swab was married, in Mifflin town- 
ship, in 1843, to Miss Mary, daughter of 
Joseph and Catherine (Shoop) Matter, a na- 
tive of Mifflin township. She died on the 
farm in 1881. Their children are: Amelia, 
deceased, wife of Charles Shoemaker ; Cathe- 
rine, wife of George Echternacht, Marsh alls- 
town, Iowa; Edwin, miner, in Lykens, Pa.; 
Samuel, roof painter, Reading, Pa.; Enoch, 
farmer, Marshall county, Iowa ; Emma Jane, 
wifeofMahlon Miller, Pottsville, Pa.; Joseph, 
hotel employee, Buffalo, N. Y. 

Mr. Swab was drafted for the nine months' 
service in the army in October, 1862. He 
served ten months in company F, One 
Hundred and Seveiuvv-third regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers. He was stationed 
at Norfolk, Va., during most of his time. 
At the end of the ten months he came home 
and was married again, in the fall of 1883, 
to Elizabeth McCully, widow of George 
Snyder. She is the daughter of Robert and 
Catherine (Seibold) McCully, the former of 
Irish and the latter of German descent. She 
had five children hy her first marriage. 

In political principles Mr. Swab is a Demo- 
crat and attends the Lutheran church, in 
which he has served as deacon. He also 
held several minor offices in the village, but 
has never been a politician in the sense of 
an office seeker. 



1106 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Buffington, Isaiah T., senior member of 
the firm of Buffington & Enders, proprietors 
of the Elizabethville planing mill and furni- 
ture factory, and also funeral directors, was 
born in Upper Paxton township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., July 20, 1850. He is a son of 
Josiah and Susan (Yeager) Buffington. Solo- 
mon Buffington, grandfather of Isaiah T. 
Buffington, was born in Dauphin county, 
and was a farmer and shoemaker, doing 
business in this and other counties. Josiah 
Buffington, father of Isaiah T., was born in 
Upper Paxton township, Dauphin county, 
January 16, 1826. He was a prominent 
resident of Elizabethtown for forty years, 
during which he was engaged in contracting, 
cabinet making and undertaking. He was 
village postmaster for over twenty years. 
He is now seventy-one years old, and has 
resided in Elizabethtown since his retire- 
ment, in 1892. His wife is also living. 
Their children are: Isaiah T.; John W., re- 
siding in Elizabethville ; Mary, wife of 
Andrew Chubb, Elizabethville ; Henrietta, 
wife of Henry Bickel, near Mt. Carmel, Pa.; 
Benjamin Franklin, Elizabethville; Kate, 
residing at home; Harry, resident of Shamo- 
kin ; Lizzie, wife of Charles B. Potter, Eliza- 
bethville; Emma and Alvah, who died 
young. 

Isaiah T. Buffington, when about three 
years old, was brought by his parents to 
Mifflin township, were they remained a few 
years ; they then removed to Washington 
township, where I. T. was educated. His 
father gave him the choice between working 
on the farm and going to college; he chose 
farm work, and was brought up a farmer 
boy. At ten years of age he went to work 
on neighboring farms, and was engaged as 
farm hand for five years. He then began to 
learn cabinet making, carpentry and house 
building, and followed these branches of 
business with his father until he was twenty- 
two. All this time he had worked for his 
board and clothing. For the next four years 
his wages were $1.75 or $2 per day. In 1876 
Mr. Buffington began business for himself, 
in Elizabethville, as cabinet maker, under- 
taker and contractor, and conducted busi- 
ness alone until 1888. In the beginning he 
worked in a small room, ten by sixteen feet, 
and made additions as business demanded. 
He was the architect and builder of many 
of the most imposing residences of Eliza- 
bethville. In 1888 he took in C. W. Enders 
as a partner and formed the firm of Buffing- 



ton & Enders, under which name the busi- 
ness has ever since been carried on. They 
manufacture flooring, siding, moulding, 
sash, doors, shutters and blinds ; also hard 
and soft wood chamber suites, parlor suites, 
lounges, tables and chairs. 

Isaiah T. Buffington was married, at 
Elizabethville, September 1, 1872, to Miss 
Mary Kemmerer, a native of Upper Paxton 
township and a resident of Washington 
township. Their children are : William E., 
at home, graduate of a commercial college; 
Edward F., died an infant; Nellie Pearl, 
Ray K., George C, and Lewis, all at home ; 
and Annie, died aged five years. 

Mr. Buffington 's political jn'mciples are 
Republican. He has served on the school 
board of the township for one term, and was 
elected burgess for the first year of the bor- 
ough. Formerly he was a member of P. 0. 
S. of A. and of the I. 0. O. F. Mr. Buffing- 
ton is president of the Enterprise Hosiery 
Company, and also a director of the Ceme- 
tery Association. He belongs to the United 
Brethren church, and is a trustee. He 
has acted as Sunday-school superintend- 
ent for eight years. He is a member of the 
Young People's Christian Union (United 
Brethren) Church Society. Mr. Buffington 
has made his own way in the world. He 
began with only strong hands, a clear head 
and a good heart. His career is successful 
as it is honorable, and his example is an en- 
couragement and an inspiration to all boys 
who have only themselves to depend upon, 
for it shows that industry, frugality, wisdom 
and virtue are sure to win. 



Swab, Isaac, foundryman, was born in 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
October 5, 1845. He is a son of Daniel and 
Sarah (Heller) Swab. 

Isaac Swab was educated in the common 
schools and at Berrysburg Academy, which 
he attended for two years. He worked on 
the farm early in life, and remained at home 
until he was twenty -three. He came to Eliza- 
bethville in 1868, and was for some time em- 
ployed in his brother's wagon factory. He 
then opened a hardware and stove store in 
Elizabethville ; after eight or ten j'ears in 
this business he sold out and went to Har- 
risburg, where he took a contract for putting 
cars together in the railroad shops. He was 
employed in the same manner for two years 
at Millerstown, Pa., after which he returned 
to Elizabethville and established a foundry, 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



1107 



which he has conducted since that time. He 
was also for a short time engaged in broom 
making. His knowledge of the foundry 
business was derived from reading and from 
observation. 

Isaac Swab was married, in Berrysburg, 
Pa., in 1867, to Miss Sarah Ellen Messner, a 
native of Washington township, Dauphin 
county, Pa. Their children are : Harry C, 
married Mattie Smith, resides at Elizabeth- 
ville, Pa.; Arthur A., left home at fourteen 
years of age, found employment with Drake 
& Stratton, bridge builders, New York ; was 
at Johnstown, Pa., repairing bridges two 
days after the great flood ; was married, at 
Hanover. Ohio, to Effie Hawarth ; Sallie E., 
at home; Katie C, died aged six years; 
Warren F. and Percy A., at home. 

Mr. Swab is a Democrat. He has been 
school director for nine years, and is at pres- 
ent secretary of the school board. He has 
been township clerk for six years. He was 
formerly a stockholder in the Water Com- 
pany and is now a member of the town coun- 
cil. He is also secretary of the Lutheran 
charge, which includes all the Lutheran 
churches in the Lykens Valley. Mr. Swab 
is intelligent and public spirited, genial in 
disposition and agreeable in manners. He is 
highly esteemed and respected. 



Keiper, Michael R., superintendent of 
water works, agent of Lykens Valley Mutual 
Fire Insurance Company, Elizabethville, Pa., 
was born in Washington township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., on the homestead, one 
mile west of Elizabethville, October 5, 1839. 
He is a son of John and Catherine (Runk) 
Keiper. His grandfather, Jacob Keiper, 
was a native of Reamstown, Lancaster county, 
Pa., and a lifelong resident of that place. 
He was a cooper. His wife was Sarah Ech- 
ternacht. Mr. Keiper's father was born in 
Reamstown, July 14, 1810. He died in 
Washington township, August 16, 1854. 
From the time when he came to Dauphin 
county, at twenty years of age, he was a 
farmer. During his earlier life he had been 
engaged in driving cattle to eastern markets. 
While thus employed, and on a trip through 
Washington township, he made the acquaint- 
ance of Miss Catherine Runk, who after- 
wards became his wife. She was born June 
20, 1822, and died March 24, 1845. After 
his marriage, Mr. Keiper was for many years 
engaged in mercantile business at Elizabeth- 



ville. His children by his first wife are : 
Michael R.; John, died in Philadelphia, 
July 4, 1887, where he was embloyed in a 
store; Catherine, widow of Samuel Keiter, 
Elizabethville. Mr. Keiper's second wife 
was Miss Lucinda Bufnngton, who survives 
him, and by whom he had but one child, 
William Henry, residing at Lykens, Pa. 
Mr. Keiper alwa3 r s took a prominent part in 
village and township affairs. He was orig- 
inally a Whig, and subsequently affiliated 
with the Republican party. 

Michael R. Keiper was educated in the 
common schools of his native place and of 
Middletown, Pa. At the age of sixteen he 
commenced working Good's woolen mill, 
near Millersburg, Pa. He was employed 
here two years, during which time he learned 
different branches of the business. But he 
was forced to seek other employment, the 
mill work being detrimental to his health. 

Mr. Keiper rented the home farm and be- 
gan tilling the soil: After several years he 
bought the homestead, and continued farm- 
ing from that time, 1861, until 1885, when 
he retired from the farm and took up his 
residence in his new home in Elizabethville, 
which he built in 1884. After removing to 
Elizabethville he engaged in the insurance 
business, and is now agent for the Lykens 
Valley Mutual Fire Insurance Company. 
Mr. Keiper still owns the home farm and 
several other good farms. He has for many 
years been director of the First National 
Bank of Millersburg, and of the Miners' 
Deposit Bank of Lykens. 

Mr. Keiper was married, in Washington 
township, February 14, 1861, to Miss Sarah 
Etta Sheesley. Their children are : John A., 
a United Brethren minister at Meyerstown, 
Lebanon county, Pa., graduate in theology 
of Ursinus College, Montgomery county, 
Pa., married Gertrude Barr; Katie S., mar- 
ried Albert Romberger, farmer, Washington 
township, has two children, Earl K. and 
Roy Arthur; Annie E., married Frank 
Campbell, Millersburg, Pa. ; Laura Etta, un- 
married, at home. 

Mr. Keiper is a Republican, and an ac- 
tive worker for his party. He served three 
years as school director, three years as as- 
sessor, and one year as judge of elections. 
He is an active member of the United 
Brethren church; is class leader of class 
No. 1, trustee of the church, and president 
of its official board. He was for twentv-five 



1108 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



consecutive years superintendent of the 
Sunday-school. He is president of the 
United Brethren Campmeeting Association. 



Romberger, B. W., president of the Yok- 
ney Cotton Mills, Water Valley, Miss., and 
retired dry goods merchant of Philadelphia, 
Pa., was born in Mifflin township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 7, 1825. He is a son 
of Balthaser and Elizabeth (Serry) Romber- 
ger. Balthaser Romberger was born in 
Lancaster county, Pa. After his marriage 
he came to Dauphin county, and settled in 
Mifflin township, where he died in 1838, 
aged sixty. His wife died some years after, 
at the age of seventy-five. Their children 
were : Mary, Mrs. Matter, died in Mifflin town- 
ship, aged sixty-three years ; Catherine, Mrs. 
Matter, died aged fifty-eight ; Anna M., de- 
ceased ; George, farmer in Mifflin township ; 
Daniel, died in Mifflin township ; Elizabeth, 
Mrs. J. Hoy, died in Mifflin township ; Susan, 
Mrs. Broderer, died in Mifflin township ; 
Rebecca, Mrs. J. Harner, died in Mifflin 
township; Hannah, Mrs. Jacob Woodside, 
widow, resides in Mifflin township; Benja- 
min, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this 
volume, lives retired at Berrysburg, Pa.; 
David, deceased, farmer, Mifflin township ; 
and B. W. 

B. W. Romberger had only the slender 
opportunities for education afforded by sub- 
scription schools, open for a few months of 
each year. When he was in his fourteenth 
year his father died, and while the family 
were not left destitute, yet they were by no 
means rich in this world's goods, and the 
boy did not wish to remain a burden to his 
mother. Being active and ambitious, he 
determined to start out in the world on his 
own account, and to demonstrate that even 
at his early age he could provide for him- 
self. He first hired as a farm hand for one 
year at $3 per month, to a man who proved 
to be a hard task master, requiring him to 
work from sunrise until late at night, and 
expecting of him in the fields the work of 
an ahle-bodied man, scarcely allowing him 
time to eat his dinner, but compelling him 
to do chores about the barn while the men 
were enjoying their hour of rest at noou. 
He did not like to leave his place, for fear of 
being called lazy, and patiently worked 
through the year. With money saved from 
his earnings he bought the first suit of new 
clothes he ever wore. At the end of this 
year he found employment for six months 



with another farmer, who gave him $5 per 
month. At the expiration of this engage- 
ment he began an apprenticeship to a car- 
penter in Upper Paxton township, with 
whom he served three years, afterwards re- 
ceiving regular journeyman's wages for the 
time he remained in his employ. 

In 1848 he went to Illinois and remained 
six months, during which time Mr. Rom- 
berger worked only one month, and was at 
expense both for himself and for his com- 
panion, which nearly exhausted his money. 
They changed their plans and returned, 
reaching home with just $50 remaining of 
the $800 with which he started. He soon 
after assumed a position as clerk in the gen- 
eral store of his brother-in-law, at Berrys- 
burg, Pa.; he was for five years engaged in 
this occupation in several places, during the 
winter months working at his trade in the 
summer, excepting one month in each sea- 
son, when he was engaged as a harvest hand. 

In 1852 or 1853 Mr. Romberger went to 
Philadelphia to acquire a good mercantile 
training, with a view of establishing himself 
in a general store in some country place. He 
little thought at that time of becoming a 
prominent dry goods merchant in that great 
city. He at once applied to the large whole- 
sale dry goods firm which of late is known 
as the Jacob Riegel Company, and met with 
a cordial reception. He stated his desire of 
getting a position as salesman frankly and 
fully informing them of his slender experi- 
ence in the business, and asking for a 
month's trial, agreeing, if successful, to re- 
ceive pay according to the value of his ser- 
vices, but if after trial he should prove not 
to be adapted to the business, he would ask 
no wages. They were pleased with his 
honest frankness, and consented to the trial. 
It was extended to four months, and proved 
satisfactory to both parties. Mr. Romberger 
agreed to remain, and continued with the 
firm for ten years, his salary being advanced 
from time to time from $600 to $5,000 per 
annum. He sold as high as $410,000 worth 
of goods in one year, and after deducting his 
salary his sales cleared $62,000 for the firm. 
At the end of ten years he united with Mr. 
Cunningham in forming the dry goods firm 
of Romberger, Cunningham & Co., which 
continued in business two years, and was 
then changed to Romberger, Long & Co., 
which continued until 1887, when on ac- 
count of failing health Mr. Romberger sold 
his interest in the business to Mr. Long. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1109 



During this time Mr. Romberger and his 
brother-in-law, D. R. Wagner, formed what 
is known as the Yokney Cotton Mills Com- 
pany, of which he became president. They 
built a large factory at Water Valley, Miss., 
and equipped it with the latest and most 
improved machinery. It gives employment 
to one hundred and thirty-five hands ; the 
president's son, Charles Romberger, is an 
efficient and capable superintendent of the 
business. 

Mr. Romberger was married, in Philadel- 
phia, Pa., July 10, 1856, to Miss Helena 
Wagner, a native of Snyder county, Pa., 
where she lived until she was twelve or 
fourteen years of age when she removed 
with her parents to Philadelphia. Prior to 
this Mr. Romberger had married a Miss 
Sarah Orendorff, who lived but two years 
after marriage, and by whom he had one 
child, Henry M., residing at Winona, Miss., 
cashier of Winona Bank, married to Flor- 
ence Smith. There have been two children 
of the second marriage : Clara Louisa, wife 
of Johnson Alter, died at the age of thirty- 
eight, leaving one child ; and Charles E., 
superintendent of cotton mills, Water Valley, 
Miss., married Miss Smith. Mr. Romberger's 
politics are Democratic. For fifty-five years 
he has been an energetic, progressive and 
highly esteemed member of the Lutheran 
church. 

Mr. Romberger spends most of his winters 
at Water Valley, Miss. His house in Wash- 
ington township is situated in a beautiful 
spot, at the foot of the mountain, and is 
truly baronial in its proportions and ap- 
pointments. It is lavishly supplied with 
all the modern conveniences which contribute 
to comfort and to luxury. Mr. Romberger 
has indulged his cultured literary taste es- 
pecially in the furnishing of his library, 
which is a spacious room stored with selected 
books in every department of literature, 
science and art. It is an agreeable surprise 
to find so beautiful, luxurious and tasteful a 
dwelling in rural surroundings. The farm 
on which it stands contains five hundred and 
seventeen acres, and is one of the best in the 
State. Mr. Romberger in his personality is 
attractive and agreeable. He is affable and 
courteous in manner, and always genial and 
hospitable. His appearance proclaims him 
to be just what he really is, a man of dis- 
tinguished business ability and refined and 
cultured tastes. 



Ernest, George, farmer, was born in 
Madison township, Perry county, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 4, 1830. He is a son of Daniel and 
Catherine (Ernest) Ernest. 

The Ernest ancestors came from Ger- 
many. They were connected with the 
House of Hanover, who were in full power 
previous to the Reformation. Henry Ernest, 
grandfather of George Ernest, was a native 
of Berks county, where he was reared and 
married, and engaged in agricultural pur- 
suits. He removed with his family to 
Perry county, and died on the homestead in 
Madison township in 1838, his wife having 
preceded him to the grave. Their children 
were: George; David; Daniel; Elizabeth, 
who was Mrs. Runsmith, deceased ; and 
Catherine, Mrs. Dysinger. 

Daniel Ernest, father of George, was born 
in Berks county, September 17, 1796. He 
was reared on the farm, and remained on 
the farm until he was a young man. At 
that time the family removed to Perry 
county, where he continued farming until 
his death, which occurred May 15, 1885. 
His wife died December 22, 1873. Daniel 
Ernest was a prominent man, taking an 
active part in township affairs, and filling 
various township offices. Their children 
are : John, a cooper, resides in Peoria, 111., 
is active in city affairs, was sheriff; Samuel, 
farmer, Perry county, lives on part of the 
homestead in Madison township; George; 
Sarah, died some years ago, unmarried; 
Henry, resides at Cisna Run, Perry county, 
Pa.; Jane A., deceased, unmarried; Mary, 
deceased, unmarried ; Daniel, retired farmer, 
Eshcol, Perry county ; David, died in Perry 
county, June 4, 1876. 

Mr. George Ernest attended subscription 
schools and finished his education in the 
public schools, which he attended in the 
winter of each year. He remained on the 
farm until he was twenty-five, when he went 
West, in 1855 or '56, in search of business 
opportunities. There were more boys at 
home than were needed for the farm work, 
so he went to Ohio, and worked among the 
farmers near Fostoria for one year. He then 
went to Illinois to see a brother. After a 
short visit he hired himself to a farmer west 
of Peoria, 111., for a year, at the end of which 
time he returned home. He had saved about 
$100, but in those times the currency of one 
State was not good in another. After his 
return George engaged in building post and 



masmmm 



1110 



BIO GRA PRIG A L ENGYCL OPEDIA 



rail fences in Perry county, and continued 
there three summers, but was unemployed in 
the winter. He and his companions were 
planning for something by which they could 
make money faster and more easily, and de- 
cided to open a general store at Anderson- 
burg, Perry county, which they conducted 
successfully for four or five years. Mr. Ern- 
est then sold his interest to his partners and 
went to Missouri. He there made collections 
for his father, who had loaned certain sums 
to a man whom Mr. Ernest hunted up. Hav- 
ing successfully transacted this business and 
returned he remained around home for about 
a year. 

After his marriage he opened a general 
store in Green Park and conducted it for 
about eighteen months. He then removed 
his stock to Cisna Run (then Cedar Run), 
Perry county, and carried on business there 
for about a year and a half. He then sold 
out to his brother David and located in Eliza- 
bethville, .purchasing the store of Simon 
Bickel. He remained there from 1870 to 
1885, during eleven years of which time he 
had charge of the business. From 1S85 to 
1888 Mr. Ernest remained in Elizabethville, 
without any business occupation. In 1888 
he removed to Centre county, Pa., where for 
one year he was engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness. After this he located on his present 
place of forty-five acres in Washington town- 
ship, Dauphin county, to which he added 
twenty acres, and is devoting his whole at- 
tention to raising poultry and fruit. 

George Ernest was married, May 30, 1866, 
to Miss Elizabeth Bealor, born September 6, 
1839, at New Bloomfield, Perry county; a 
daughter of David and Margaret (Smith) 
Bealor. Their children are : Charles David, 
deceased, born January 17, 1868; William 
D., born at Elizabethville, December 28, 
1870, taught school in Dauphin county two 
years, then took a course in shorthand at 
Chicago, and then took a position as cashier 
of a life insurance company at Chicago. Six 
months after he began a service under the 
United States lighthouse inspector, which 
lasted for a year and a half. In the follow- 
ing June Mr. Ernest entered Pennsylvania 
College, Gettysburg, Pa., where he remained 
two years. It was his intention to take a 
theological course and enter the ministry, 
but his throat would not stand the strain 
of public speaking. While in Chicago he 
attended the course of lectures of the Moody 
Bible Association. He has now turned 



his whole attention to the work of the 
Young Men's Christian Association, and 
has been engaged in the Railroad Branch, 
Philadelphia, Pa. He is at present general 
secretary and physical director of the Mt. 
Carmel, Pa., Association. Harry B., born 
August 8, 1873, at Elizabethville, Pa., where 
he attended school, after which he taught 
for two winters in Washington township. 
In the fall of 1895 he entered Pennsylvania 
College, and is taking a classical course, 
which he will complete in 1900, when he 
hopes to enter the ministry. 

Mr. Ernest is a Republican and is decided 
in his views. He was formerly a member of 
the Lutheran church. Mrs. Ernest belongs 
to the Reformed church. Mr. Ernest began 
as a poor boy, has made his way without as- 
sistance, and is now among the prominent 
and honored men of the community. 

Frank, William D., shoe dealer, Eliza- 
bethville, Pa., was born in Halifax township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., February 20, 1860. 
He is a son of John and Susan (Miller) Frank. 
David Frank, his grandfather, was a farmer, 
and at one time owned two farms in Jack- 
son township, and one in Halifax township. 
He was prominent and highly respected ; he 
died in Jackson township. 

John Frank, father of William D., was 
born in Armstrong Vallejr, Dauphin county. 
He was educated in the common schools, 
reared on the farm, and made farming his 
life occupation. He died in Halifax town- 
ship, in 1874. His wife, Susan Miller, sur- 
vives him, and resides with her son, William 
D. Frank. Their children are: William D.; 
Margaret Ellen, died in her third year; 
Emma J., has been twice married ; her first 
husband was John W. Speck, deceased ; her 
second is Aaron J. Bressler, Elizabethville, 
Pa.; Mary C, wife of David M. Stone, high 
school teacher at Williamstown, Pa.; John 
A., bookkeeper for Alley Bros., Curwensville, 
Clearfield county, Pa., married Miss Livia 
Edgbert, of Curwensville, Clearfield county, 
Pa. 

William D. Frank was educated in the 
public schools of his native place, which he 
attended in the winter. In summer he was 
engaged in farm work. His father died 
when he was fourteen years old, and from 
that time he supported himself. He hired 
out among farmers at small wages, from 
which, by rigid self-denial and strict econ- 
omy, he managed to save a little money. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1111 



He worked four years as a farm hand. At 
the age of eighteen he became apprentice to 
a shoemaker, Joseph Snyder, in Jackson 
township, whom he served two years, receiv- 
ing no wages. He then started out for him- 
self, and in 1880 opened a small repair shop 
in Elizabethville. He prospered so well, 
that after two years' work he was able to 
buy a building lot, and to erect a dwelling 
house and the store which he now occupies. 
He put in a full line of shoes, and from time 
to time increased his stock, as the growth of 
his trade made it necessary ; he now enjoys 
a large and profitable business. 

William D. Frank was married, in Eliza- 
bethville, Pa., January 22, 1882, to Miss Mary 
A. Koppenheffer, a native of Washington 
township. They have had four children : 
Charles H., born June 27, 1886; two that- 
died in infancy ^ and a son, born May 3, 
1896, yet unnamed. 

Mr. Frank is an earnest worker in the 
ranks of the Democratic party. He was 
elected to the borough council in 1895 ; 
when the town became a borough he served 
as school director, and was largely instru- 
mental in making improvements in the 
schools and school buildings. He is a mem- 
ber of the Reformed church, of which he is 
a trustee. He has been secretary and treas- 
urer of the Sunday-school for six years. 

Mr. Frank is active and energetic in busi- 
ness, intelligent and progressive in his views, 
unselfish and public spirited. He is promi- 
nent in usefulness, and in social intercourse is 
always genial. 



Swab, Eli, was born in Mifflin township 
Dauphin county, Pa., October 7, 1824. 

The first ancestor in the line of his family 
to come to America was his great-grand- 
father, John Schwab, who was born and 
reared in Germany, where he learned his 
trade of linen weaving and was married. 
At the age of thirty or thirty-five he came 
with his wife and children to this country, 
about 1735, and for a time settled in Phila- 
delphia, and engaged in the manufacture of 
linen. From Philadelphia he went to Read- 
ing, and finding the lots were selling by lot- 
tery, he procured two of the principal ones 
and. traded them for farming land in Berks 
county, at a place afterwards called Shupert's 
Mills. Here he engaged in farming, also 
working at his trade. He took part in the 
Revolutionary war. He was noted for his 
equestrian feats, one of these being riding at 



a furious pace and leaning from his horse 
to pick up a hat from the ground. He died 
on his Berks county farm. 

John Jacob Swab, grandfather of Eli 
Swab, was born in Philadelphia, about 1763, 
and reared on the farm in Berks county. 
He was married there about 1788 or 1789, to 
Miss Mary Hetzel. Their children were : 
Catherine, wife of Philip Brown, lived in 
Williams Valley, had seven children, three 
sons and four daughters ; Jacob, father of 
Eli Swab; Julia Ann, married Christian 
Matter, removed to Jefferson county, Pa., 
reared a family and died there; John, born 
in Berks county and reared in Dauphin 
county ; William, born in Dauphin county, 
married and settled in Washington town- 
ship, where he died; Daniel, born and 
reared in Dauphin county, married Katie 
Koppenheffer, removed to Ohio, where he 
died ; Susanna, married Jacob Herman, set- 
tled in Berrysburg, Dauphin county, and 
died there ; George, born in Dauphin county, 
married and died in Washington township, 
aged eighty-six years ; Elizabeth, married 
David Bitterman, died in Mifflin township. 
The grandfather settled in Mifflin, now 
Washington township, where he died in 
1819, aged fifty-six years. 

Jacob Swab, father of Eli, was born in 
Berks county, Pa., October 7, 1791, and in 
his ninth year came with his parents to 
Dauphin county, where he was reared on the 
farm, and practically learned the art of 
weaving linen from his father. He assisted 
the father in clearing the land and making 
the home. He was married, in Mifflin town- 
ship, to Catherine Metz, daughter of Sebas-' 
tian Metz. He succeeded to part of the 
homestead farm, and lived on the place 
which his son Eli Swab now owns. He 
served in the war of 1812, and died Febru- 
ury 14, 1866, aged sixty-four years. His 
wife died in 1854. Their children are: Dan- 
iel, farmer, died in Washington township ; 
Sarah, married Simon Matter, reared a fam- 
ily and died in Washington township ; Cathe- 
rine, married John Wagner, Pottsville, Pa., 
reared a family ; Jacob, married and retired, 
Elizabethville, Pa.; Eli ; Simon, blacksmith, 
married, reared a family and died in Wash- 
ington township ; Mary, married David 
Romberger, reared a family, is living in 
Mifflin township. Mr. Swab was a member 
of the Lutheran church. 

Eli Swab had slender opportunities for ac- 
quiring an education. He attended sub- 



1112 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



scription schools and grew up on the farm, 
assisting his father with the work until he 
was seventeen years old. He then learned 
tanning, at which he worked more or less 
steadily for ten years, but finally made farm- 
ing his chief occupation. In 1854 he took 
charge of the home farm and cultivated it 
until 1876, when he came into possession of 
it b}' paying $91 an acre ; one hundred and 
six acres constituted the farm, at an allow- 
ance of six per cent. 

Eli Swab was married, in Washington 
township, in 1844, to Miss Nellie, daughter 
of John and Mary Cooper, a native of Wash- 
ington township. Their children are : Al- 
ien, born March 17, 1845, a farmer, now en- 
gaged in the tanning business, married Eliza 
Lehman; Philip O, born September 10, 
1847, married Catherine Koppenheffer, for- 
merly merchant at William stown, recorder 
of deeds at Harrisburg, and now a coal mer- 
chant at Hartranft, Tenn.; Hannah, born 
November 15, 1851, unmarried ; Aaron, born 
February 11, 1854, died young; Amanda, 
born in 1857, married Daniel Brower, 
resides in Northumberland county, Pa.; 
Isaiah, born September 25, 1861, farmer in 
Washington township, married Ida Kawell; 
Mary, born September 24, 1864, married Oli- 
ver Shantz and resides in Lehigh county ; 
George, born October 21, 1869, conveyancer, 
married Frances A. Auldhouse, resides in 
Harrisburg. 

Mr. Swab owns three farms adjoining each 
other, one of one hundred and six acres, one 
of one hundred acres and one of eighty 
acres ; also two tracts of wood land. In pol- 
itics he is a Republican, and was elected 
county commissioner in 1873 and served two 
terms. He is active and prominent in church 
affairs and is a member of the Lutheran 
church, in which he has held important of- 
fices. Mr. Swab is one of the best known 
men in the community, and is highly hon- 
ored and esteemed. 

The family name was formerly spelled 
Schwab, but after the death of Mr. Eli Swab's 
grandfather it was incorrectly written in cer- 
tain legal documents as Swab, and the fam- 
ily finally adopted that spelling. 



Mattis, Charles T., farmer and miller, 
Was born in Mifflin township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., April 21, 1843. He is a son of 
Isaac and Sally (Troutman) Mattis. John 
Mattis, his grandfather, was the son of Chris- 



tian Mattis, who had one brother that died. 
John Mattis was born in Limerick town- 
ship, Montgomery county, Pa., where he was 
reared and educated and became a farmer. 
He served during the war of 1812. His 
first wife was Katy Swenk, who died 1816. 
Their children were : Daniel, a plasterer, 
died in Montgomery county ; Aaron, died 
in Mifflin township, a sketch of his life ap- 
pears in connection with that of Abram 
Mattis, elsewhere in this volume , Mary, 
married John T. Miller, both died in Mont- 
gomery county ; Christian and Susan died 
in girlhood. Mr. Mattis was again mar- 
ried to Katy Barley, widow of a Mr. Ren- 
hardt. She lived to the age of sevent3 T -three. 
The children of this marriage are: Hannah, 
married Jacob Bartley, both died in Berks 
county, Pa.; Sarah, died in Montgomery 
county, wife of a Mr. Jones; John B., died 
in Tower City, Pa.; Kitty, married and re- 
sides in Kansas. Mr. Mattis died in Lim- 
erick township, Montgomery county, about 
1833, aged fifty-six. 

Isaac Mattis, father of Charles T., was 
born in Limerick township, Montgomery 
county, Pa., July 28, 1814. He attended the 
subscription schools of his native township 
a part of each year until he was seventeen 
years old, when his father died. After that 
he attended a school taught by George Gross 
for one term. He worked out among the 
farmers, receiving $6 per month for his ser- 
vices. At the age of seventeen he became 
apprentice to a plasterer, and served two 
years, when, being dissatisfied with his 
earnings, he dropped that trade, and drove 
a huckster team to Philadelphia. He made 
and saved a little money in this business, 
and was enabled to start for himself. He 
then came to Dauphin county with his 
brother Aaron, and for two years drove a 
huckster wagon to Pottsville, after which he 
bought a tavern of John Saltzer, which he 
owned and managed for thirteen years very 
successfully. During this time he was also 
engaged in the cattle trade, buying and 
driving to Montgomery county. At the 
end of thirteen years Mr. Mattis sold the 
tavern and bought a farm of one hundred 
acres and a grist mill, and worked both 
farm and mill. He hired a miller until his 
son had learned the business and was fully 
competent to manage the mill, the young 
man being then nineteen years old. In 
1883 Mr. Mattis retired from business and 
removed to Elizabethville, where, in 1882, 



DAUPEIN COUNTY. 



1113 



he had built the residence which he now oc- 
cupies. 

Isaac Mattis was married, in Mahantango, 
Pa., in December, 1842, to Miss Sallie, daugh- 
ter of Peter Troutman. Their children are: 
Charles T., miller ; Mary Jane, deceased, wife 
of Henry Schreffler ; Ellen, wife of Jonas 
Swab, Elizabethville ; John, farmer; Alice, 
wife of William Deibler, Berrysburg, Pa.; 
Etta and Katie, at home. Mr. Mattis is Dem- 
ocratic in his political principles. He has 
served as school director and in other offices. 
His church membership is in the Lutheran 
denomination. 

Charles T. Mattis was in the common 
schools until he was eight years old, when 
his parents removed to Washington town- 
ship, where his education was completed. 
At the age of nineteen he had learned the 
business of a miller with John Klinger, who 
was in charge of his father's mill. His father 
then installed Charles as head miller and 
put that branch of the business under his 
management ; he has ever since continued 
in charge of the mill. He also owns good 
farming lands in Washington and Mifflin 
townships, and is much interested in agri- 
cultural matters. 

Charles T. Mattis was first married, De- 
cember 11, 1869, to Miss Mary Magdalena, 
daughter of Benjamin Romberger. They 
had three children : Sally A.; Carrie E., de- 
ceased ; and a boy, who died in infancy. 
Mrs. Mary Magdalena Mattis died October 3, 
1877. Mr. Mattis was again married, No- 
vember 24, 1878, to Miss Mary Jane, daugh- 
ter of Simon Sheetz. They have six chil- 
dren : Dora Day, born November 23, 1879, 
at home ; Charles Warren, born January 20, 
1882, at home ; Isaac Blair, born December 
22, 1886; Mary, born January 8, 1889; 
Annie M. and Ella Marie, twins, born Au- 
gust 28, 1895. 

Mr. Mattis is a Democrat. He has served 
for many years as school director, and also 
as auditor many years, and as judge of elec- 
tions. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church, in which he has been deacon and 
elder for many years, and is assistant super- 
intendent of the Sunday-school. He is an 
upright man, honorable in all business rela- 
tions, and genial and agreeable in social in- 
tercourse. 



Boyer, Josiah, farmer, Washington town- 
ship, was born in Berks county, Pa., Decem- 
ber 22, 1832 ; son of Peter and Christiana 



(Harp) Boyer. Peter Boyer was also born in 
Berks county, where he was reared and mar- 
ried. He learned the mason's trade, which 
was his occupation for the greater part of his 
life. About 1834 he removed with his wife 
and family to Northumberland county, Pa., 
where he became possessed of a large tract of 
farming land containing over four hundred 
acres. He also owned land in Perry county. 
In or about 1842 he removed to Dauphin 
county, Pa., anc 1 settled in Washington town- 
ship, where he died in 1852. His wife, Chris- 
tiana Harp, died at the home of her son 
Josiah, in 1875. Their children are: Benja- 
min, deceased ; Sarah, Mrs. Kauffman, de- 
ceased; Eli, deceased; Isaac, farmer and 
miller, Uniontown, Pa.; Rachael, Mrs. Elias 
Buffington, Gratz, Pa.; Abraham, Hettie, 
Gabriel, and Catherine, all deceased; Josiah 
and Benneville, twins, the latter a farmer in 
Washington township ; John, farmer, and 
Leah. 

Josiah Boyer was two years old whenhis par- 
ents removed to Mahanoy township, North- 
umberland county, Pa. He attended the com- 
mon schools of Georgetown until he was ten 
years old, whenhis parents removed to Wash- 
ington township, Dauphin county, where he' 
grew up on the farm. He naturally became a 
farmer, and has spent his life in agricultural 
pursuits. Josiah Boyer was married in 
Washington township, August 7, 1856, to 
Miss Ann Jane Ginder. Their children are: 
David Adam Alfred, merchant, at Tower 
City, Schuylkill county, Pa.; Malinda, Mrs. 
Robert Lenker, Washington township, and 
John C, studying medicine in Philadelphia. 
After his marriage Mr. Boyer took up his 
residence on the farm, where he still has his" 
home. It consisted of one hundred and 
forty acres of land, with a good dwelling, 
barns, and all other improvements. The 
land was not good at first, yielding only two 
and a half bushels of wheat the first season, 
but industrious and skillful tillage has made 
it equal to any land in the region. Mr. 
Boyer, although decided in his political 
views, which are Democratic, has never 
sought office. He is strongly in favor of pro- 
hibitory legislation. He served as supervisor 
for two years. He holds membership in the 
Reformed church. Mr.' Boyer is always 
ready for a social chat. He is a clever and 
entertaining talker, good natured and jolly. 
He is widely known and is honored and es- 
teemed for his sterling worth and many 
virtues. 



1114 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Zerbe, Jonathan, hotel keeper, Loyal- 
ton, Pa., was born in Lower Mahanoy town- 
ship, Northumberland county, Pa., Novem- 
ber 16, 1857. His father, George Zerbe, 
was born in Northumberland county, edu- 
cated in the common schools, and reared a 
farmer. At the outbreak of the Rebellion 
he enlisted in the Union army, and served 
until the close of the war. After his dis- 
charge he located on a farm in Lower 
Mahanoy township, where he died in 1875. 
His children are: William D.; Ellen, widow 
of William Alleman ; Jonathan ; and Susan, 
Mrs. John Meek, Williamstown, Pa. 

Jonathan Zerbe attended school during the 
winter months from the age of six years until 
he was fifteen. In the summer he worked 
out, either among the farmers or in the 
mines. He was sixteen when his mother 
died, in 1873, and he was thrown upon his 
own resources. He was employed nearly 
five years as a farm hand by A. D. Lentz, 
and then, in March, 1878, went to Kansas, 
having saved during that time a small 
amount of money. After working as a 
farm hand for nine months he returned to 
Pennsylvania, and worked for D. 0. Bower, 
■ Union county. Then he came to his old 
home and was married, after which impor- 
tant event he resided for twelve years in 
Tower City, Pa., engaged in mining coal. 
Receiving good wages, and working on con- 
tract besides, he was enabled to accumulate 
some money. In February, 1892, he en- 
gaged with his brother-in-law, Jacob Mess- 
ner, in the hotel business in Loyalton, 
Dauphin county, Pa. This business he still 
carries on. 

Jonathan Zerbe was married, October 28, 
1879, to Miss Julia, daughter of Philip and 
Mary (Dockey) Messner, born in Northum- 
berland county. Their children are: Harry 
A., died in infancy ; Mary A., nine years 
old ; Lottie May, five years old ; and Walter 
Scott, one year old. 

Mr. Zerbe is a Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church. He owes his 
success solely to his own ability and perse- 
vering efforts. He is of genial disposition, 
and liked by all who know him. 

The following is self-explanatory : 

" Jonathan Zerbe came to work for me 
while still a boy and remained with me for 
nearly five years. His parents were both 
dead when he came to me, so that he had 
really no one to exercise authority over him. 
His conduct gave evidence of the right kind 



of early training. He was by far the best 
farm hand I ever had in my employ, always 
willing to work, and hard toil proving no 
obstacle to him. He was clever, so that no 
matter what was being done he could do his 
share. I cannot praise him too highly as a 
workingman. But, above all, he was per- 
fectly honest. I attended market in the coal 
regions while Mr. Zerbe was in my emploj-, 
and bought up a great deal of produce. I 
did not need to hesitate to send young Zerbe 
out on the road in my place, nor to send 
any amount of money with him. Fre- 
quently I did send large amounts with him 
and he never cheated me out of a single 
penny. One day I lost my purse containing 
over eight hundred dollars, which young 
Zerbe found and returned to me, when he 
could easily have kept the whole amount. 
As an honest, upright man I commend him 
most cordially, and know him to be a good, 
careful and conscientious employee. I can 
say that I raised him and had him under 
my care during a time when young men are 
apt to become bad and vicious. He always 
respected my advice as if it were from his 
own father, and now oftentimes he has 
words of gratitude for what I did for him 
when he was almost without resources of any 
kind. And I in turn am thankful for what 
he did for me." A. D. Lentz. 



Enders, Charles W., was born in Jackson 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., December 
12, 1855. He is a son of Samuel and Leah 
(Etter) Enders. Charles W. was educated in 
the common schools of his native township. 
He began work with his father on the farm 
in his early boyhood, and was thus engaged 
until his fifeeenth year, when he became an 
apprentice with Peter Klinger, carpenter, 
Fisherville, Pa. At the end of one year he 
went to Lykens, Pa., and was employed four 
months as a carpenter in the mines. He 
next went to Pine Grove, Cumberland 
county, and worked at his trade for three 
months. Becoming dissatisfied he returned 
to Lykens, where he remained until the end 
of that year. Times were, not very prosper- 
ous and good jobs not plentiful during the 
panic of 1875-76, but he worked through. 

After his marriage Mr. Enders was for 
eleven months in Jacksonville, Pa. During 
the next five years he farmed the old home 
place, after which he sold his personal prop- 
erty, and removed to Charlotte, Eaton county, 
Mich., where he worked eighteen months in a 




<_^9^ & r ,<Z7SL^c>-?^Tj2L^<i--<r^S 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1117 



planing mill. While be was here his 
parents visited him and brought him an 
offer to operate the planing mill at Elizabeth- 
ville, Pa., which he accepted. He managed 
the mill until it was burned down, in Au- 
gust, 1885. While the mill was being re- 
built, Mr. Enders was employed at bridge 
building for the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company, until December, 1886 ; he worked 
the greater part of that time on the Northern 
Central railway. 

In the spring of 1887 Mr. Enders worked 
at his trade in Harrisburg, and resided there 
and at New Cumberland until December of 
the same year. In January, 1888, in part- 
nership with I. T. Bufhngton. he bought the 
planing mill at Elizabethville of his former 
employer, David Snyder. Since that time 
the mill has been run by the firm of 
Buffington & Enders. The mill, for which 
they paid $4,500, is worth, as it now stands, 
over $77,500. Mr. Enders has also built 
himself a fine dwelling at a cost of $1,350. 
In connection with the planing mill, Mr. 
Enders is a partner in the firm of Buffington 
& Enders, manufacturers of hosiery, the 
company being known as the Enterprise 
Hosiery Company. He is a Republican and 
does not seek public office. 

Charles W. Enders was married in Jackson 
township, September 17, 1876, to Phoebe 
Buffington, born in Lykens Valley, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 20, 1855. Their children 
are : Howard E., pursuing a scientific course 
at Lebanon Valley College, Annville, Pa., 
with the medical profession in view; Fred. 
C, Florence B., and Laura, at home. Mr. 
Enders has been for eleven years a member 
of the United Brethren church. 



Cooper, William, farmer, Washington 
township, was born in Mifflin, now Wash- 
ington township, Dauphin county, Pa., Sep- 
tember, 1831 ; son of John and Mary (Mil- 
ler) Cooper. The grandfather, Adam Cooper, 
was reared in Lykens Valley, and died in 
Mifflin township. The father was born and 
reared in Mifflin township. He was a man 
of great natural ability, and was self educated, 
learning much from his children. He served 
one term in the State Legislature and refused 
nomination for a second term. He was mar- 
ried in Mifflin township and afterwards located 
on his father's farm. At one time he owned 
three farms aggregating about five hundred 
acres. His death occurred on the old home- 
stead about 1884, when he was eighty-six 
6 9 



years of age, his wife having died a year or 
two previously. Their children were : Jacob, 
a farmer, died in Washington township ; 
Philip, farmer, died in Upper Paxton town- 
ship; Amos, farmer, died in Washington 
township ; Nellie, Mrs. Eli Swab, Washing- 
ton township ; Jemima, wife of Daniel Lebo, 
Upper Paxton township ; William ; Mary, 
widow of Josiah P. Miller, Washington town- 
ship; Silas, farmer, Upper Paxton township, 
and Amanda, wife of Henry Hartman, Wash- 
ington township. 

William attended subscription and com- 
mon schools of his native place during the 
winter months and was occupied at other sea- 
sons in the saw mill and on the farm with 
his father. At the age of twenty-six or twenty- 
seven he was married, in 1858, to Miss Mary 
A. Martin, native of Washington township, 
and a daughter of Samuel P. and Mary (Du- 
bendorf ) Martin, who is still living. After 
marriage he rented and cultivated different 
farms for twelve years, and about 1870 bought 
his present farm of fifty-two acres, on which 
he has good buildings and improvements. 
His children are : Jeremiah F.; Harry 
Chaundy, Shamokin, Pa.; Abraham Lincoln, 
clerk in store at Wichita, Kan., since 1881 ; 
E., wife of Jacob A Matter, Harrisburg ; 
Mary, wife of Jacob Weitzler, Chester, Pa.; 
William H, dairyman and huckster, Lykens, 
Pa., a tanner by trade ; Harry M., shoe- 
maker, at Halifax, Pa.; Edward C, at home, 
and Edith I., at home. Mr. Cooper was form- 
erly a liberal Republican, but is now a mem- 
ber of the Populist party. In religious fel- 
lowship he is connected with the Reformed 
church. 



Elder, David D., was born on the farm 
on which he now lives, in Washington 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., March 16, 
1838 ; son of Robert and Hannah (Deitrich) 
Elder. Robert Elder, the great-great-grand- 
father, passed over from Scotland to the north 
of Ireland, where he remained for many years, 
and later joined his son in America. John 
Elder, the great-grandfather, was born in 
Edinburgh, received a collegiate education, 
was ordained to the ministry in the Presby- 
terian church, came to America long before 
the Revolutionary war, and settled at Pax- 
tang, where he preached for fifty years, cov- 
ering the time of the Revolutionary war. 
He preached from his pulpit sermons to 
arouse the people to resist the onslaught of 
the Hessian soldiers, and raised a company, 



1118 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of which he was made the captain, and 
served through the war. 

David Elder, the grandfather, was born at 
Paxtang, Dauphin county, and was reared 
to the occupation of Government surveyor, 
which be followed for many years. He died 
in his native county, many years of age, and 
left two sons and three daughters. His wife 
was a Miss Galbraith. 

Robert Elder, the father, was born in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, in 1800. 
In early life he learned the trade of batter 
in Philadelphia, after which he came to 
Paxtang and manufactured and dealt in 
hats. He came to Washington township 
before marriage and bought two hundred 
and twenty acres of wood land, which he 
cleared and improved. He died in Harris- 
burg in 1854, and his wife still survives him, 
at the age of eighty-two years. They had 
nine children, of whom David is the fourth 
in order of birth. His father, Thomas J., 
now resides in the West. 

David D. attended the schools of his na- 
tive place until he was twelve years of age, 
when he was sent to his uncle, at Dauphin, 
Derry township, where he was in school for 
about one year. He lost his father at the 
age of sixteen years, which broke up the 
family, and he went out to make his own 
way in the world. He obtained a position 
in the book and stationery store of Town & 
Barnes, where he remained seven years. At 
first his salary was $3.25 per week, from 
which he had to pay board, and was gradu- 
ally increased to $600 per year. At the end 
of seven years he, with J. W. Miller, em- 
barked in the book and stationery trade, and 
continued the partnership until 1877, when 
he bought his partner's interest and took his 
brother into the firm, under the name of 
David D. Elder & Co. In 1884 he sold the 
business to David Bently, and began the 
manufacture of wall paper, which he carried 
on until 1892, and since that time he has 
lived on the farm and given his attention to 
agricultural pursuits. 

Mr. Elder was married, at Mechanicsburg, 
Pa., January 30, 1866, to Miss Kate Stoever, 
a native of Milton, Pa., daughter of Rev. C. 
F. and Louisa G. Stoever. They have five 
children, three daughters and two sons. Mr. 
Elder served with the emergenc}' troops in 
1862 and 1863, being stationed in the Cum- 
berland Valley and moving as far as An- 
tietam. 



Forney, John, miller, Washington town- 
ship, was born in Mifflin township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 30, 1822; son of John 
Forney. The father was one of the follow- 
ing children : Simon, farmer, Hummels- 
town ; Leah Jane, wife of Isaac Weitzel, 
Upper Paxton township ; Sarah Ellen, wife 
of John Bonawitz, Elizabethville ; Caroline, 
wife of Isaac Row, Washington township ; 
and Eliza Ann, unmarried: 

John attended school, worked at home 
and lived out among the farmers and thus 
passed his youth. He later drove a huckster 
team for bis stepfather, Benjamin Reigle, 
and at the age of sixteen years drove team 
to Pottsville. He was married, in Mifflin 
township, December 30, 1844, to Miss Susan 
Lenker, daughter of Jacob and Rebecca 
(Hoy) Lenker. After marriage he lived for 
one year with his stepfather and then bought 
twenty and a half acres of land near Berrys- 
burg and was engaged in gardening for 
three years, after which he sold the place 
and took up his residence in one of the 
houses of his stepfather, in which be re- 
mained three years. He next farmed the 
place of William Lenker two years and then 
bought a farm of one hundred and nine acres 
in Upper Paxton township, on which he 
located and has lived there for thirty years. 
Mr. Forney now owns seven farms, on all of 
which there are good buildings and first- 
class improvements, containing altogether 
four hundred and sixty-eight acres. In 
February, 1886, he bought mill property of 
Mr. Falkenmeyer and has since operated 
the mill in connection with farming. His 
children are: George W., married to Susan 
Lenker, and farms in Upper Paxton town- 
ship ; William H, first married Lizzie Whit- 
comb, of Centre county, Pa., and secondly 
married Lizzie Lenker; Kate, married 
Joseph Matter, resides in Washington town- 
ship ; Sarah, married Harry Keefer, resides 
in Elizabethville; Daniel Peter, laborer, in 
Upper Paxton township; John L., farmer, 
married to Annie Bohner, resides in Upper 
Paxton township ; Jacob E., married to 
Bertha Enders, a farmer in Upper Paxton 
township ; Lizzie Alice, married Carson 
Kromer, Millersburg, Pa.; Carrie Agnes, wife 
of M. D. Bonawitz, head miller for Mr. 
Forney. In his political views Mr. Forney 
is a Republican and takes an active part in 
the interests of his partj^. In Upper Paxton 
township he served as supervisor, tax col- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1119 



lector and constable. He is also an active 
and energetic member of the United Brethren 
church. ' 



Haetman, Henry, farmer, Washington 
township, was born in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., August 2, 1821. Henry 
Hartman, grandfather, is supposed to have 
been born in Chester county, Pa. He was 
reared a farmer, and was married, in that 
county, to Sarah Horner. He came with 
his family to Dauphin county and settled in 
Williams Valley between 1794 and 1800, 
when he built a grist mill, which he at once 
sold, having learned that its site was mort- 
gaged to parties in England, after which he 
bought a small tract of land in the same val- 
ley. He prospected a great deal for mines. 
On the advice of his brother Michael, a cat- 
tle buyer, who frequently visited these val- 
leys, he sold his place and located in Lykens 
Valley, on two hundred acres of land near 
the present site of Gratz, from which he 
cleared up a farm, built house and barn, and 
to which he added more land. He partici- 
pated in the Revolutionary war, and died in 
1833, aged eighty-four years. His wife sur- 
vived him twelve or fifteen years, and was 
twelve years his junior. They had thirteen 
children ; six of the daughters went to Phila- 
delphia and married there ; John died in 
Lykens Valley, and Michael died in Phila- 
delphia. 

The father was born in Chester county, 
Pa., January 19, 1794, and was a mere boy 
when he came with his parents to Dauphin 
county. He learned the trade of mason, but 
was principally engaged in farming. He 
married in Lykens Valley and settled on a 
farm of one hundred and eighteen acres in 
Lykens township. At one time he owned 
eight or nine farms, and died comparatively 
wealthy, leaving to each of his children a 
farm and a sum of money. His death oc- 
curred in Lykens township, September 11, 
1 879, in the eighty-sixth year of his age. He 
and his wife Magdalena lived together over 
sixty years. She was a daughter of Peter 
Imshoffstall and Catherine Hoffner, his wife, 
and was born in Washington township, Oc- 
tober 27, 1797. She died April 16, 1879. 
Their children were: John, Henry, Simon, 
Elizabeth, Jacob, Beneven, Caroline, Moses, 
Michael, Catherine, and Mary. 

Henry received a good common school 
education in German and attended the Eng- 
lish schools also, but only for a short time. 



He was put to work when quite young cut- 
ting wood and threshing grain, both before 
and after school hours in the winter time. 
The threshing was done with a flail and by 
tramping with horses. He was married, in 
Washington township, November 1, 1842, to 
Margaret, daughter of George and Barbara 
Snyder, born in Northumberland county, 
Pa., November 12, 1819, and died in Wash- 
ington township, September 16, 1873. Their 
children are: Cornelius S.; Emma J., mar- 
ried Samuel Row, died from burns by cloth- 
ing taking fire ; one child died in infancy ; 
Rebecca Ellen, at home; Henry J.; Cathe- 
rine Margaret, Mrs. Joseph Sultzbach. 

After marriage he located on a farm of 
his father's in Washington township, then 
Mifflin township, where he remained five 
years with his father, bought a mill in 
Washington township, which he operated 
for five years and then sold it and bought 
his former place from his father, where he 
lived until coming to his present place in 
1876, which he bought in 1875. He also 
owns four farms and wood land. In 1863 
Mr. Hartman was appointed county com- 
missioner to serve the unexpired term of 
Henry Moyer, who died in office, and in 
1864 he was elected to a full term of five 
years for the same office. He was formerly 
a Whig and came into the Republican party. 
He has filled the office of supervisor, assessor, 
school director, judge of elections, and almost 
all township offices. He was married to his 
present wife February 9, 1884. She was 
Amanda Cooper, daughter of John and 
Mary (Miller) Cooper, and was born in 
Washington township, July 29, 1841. To 
this marriage there is no issue. Mr. Hart- 
man is a member of the Lutheran church 
and is now a trustee of the church, and for 
twenty years has been the superintendent of 
the Sunday-school. 

Herman, Harry, farmer, Washington 
township, was born in Mifflin township, now 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
November 7, 1833 ; son of John and Rebecca 
(Heller) Herman. The father was first mar- 
ried to Susan Heller, and their children are : 
Mary, deceased, Josiah, and Sarah. He next 
married Rebecca Heller, and their children 
are : Harry and Mary. He next married 
Rebecca, daughter of John Keener, widow 
of Michael Matter, and their children are: 
John, Rebecca, Thomas, Michael, and Jacob. 
Lastly he married Lavina Dubendorf, widow 



1120 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of diaries Matter, and their children are: 
Frances Ann, Samuel, and Lavina. The 
father removed to Clinton county, Pa., in 
1876, and died near Lock Haven. His last 
wife survives him. 

Harry attended the subscription schools 
of his native township and remained on the 
home farm until his marriage, after which 
he located on one of the farms of his wife's 
father and which came to him through mar- 
riage. It consists of one hundred and thirty- 
three acres. He owns another farm of one 
hundred and sixty-two acres and also one- 
half interest in the grist mill with Nathaniel 
Miller. He was married, in Mifflin town- 
ship, in 1854, to Miss Mary Koppenheffer. 
Their children are : Mary Elizabeth, wife of 
Henry P. Hartman ; John Milton and Simon 
A., twins ; Laura, widow of George Hart- 
man ; Harry Thomas, farmer, in Washing- 
ton township ; Ida Rebecca, maiden lady ; 
and Michael H., at home. Mr. Herman is 
a Republican in his political views and has 
been supervisor of the township. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church. 



Hoke, Aaron D., manufacturer of half 
hose, Elizabethville, Pa., was born in Eliza- 
bethville. Dauphin county, Pa., July 25, 
1868 ; only child of Jonathan and Clara 
(Matter) Hoke, both of whom are living. 
He attended the common schools of his 
native place until he was eighteen years of 
age, when he went to learn the trade of 
currier with Mr. Bauder, near Elizabeth- 
ville, with whom he served two and a half 
years, and then went to Philadelphia, where 
he worked at his trade in some of the lead- 
ing shops for one and a half years. He 
then removed to Middletown, where he 
worked with the J. W. Rife Leather Com- 
pany for three years. His next move was 
to Meyerstown, where he worked at his 
trade for two years. During those years in 
which he worked as a journeyman he was 
receiving good wages, and was saving his 
money. At the end of two years he came 
to Elizabethville and, in April, 1895, with 
Buffington, Enders and Hoke, formed the 
Enterprise Hosiery Company. He had the 
satisfaction of being able to embark in 
business with money saved from his own 
earnings, and is the architect of his own 
fortune, having supported himself since he 
was ten years old, and has made his way 
unaided. The capacity of the factor}' is 
fifty dozen per da}', and a market for the 



goods is found throughout the State. Mr. 
Hoke was married, in Middletown, Pa., Sep- 
tember 22, 1891, to Miss Katy E. Bowman, of 
Williamstown, Pa. They have two chil- 
dren: Wilmer Bowman, born November 9, 
1893, and Elsie Irene, born June 16, 1895. 
Mr. Hoke has been active in promoting the 
success of the Republican party. He is a 
member of the United Brethren church, 
and is trustee of the official board, Sunday- 
school superintendent, and assistant class 
leader. 



Hoke, Jonathan, shoemaker,Washington 
township, was born in Washington town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., December 25, 
1825 ; son of Isaac and Catherine (Botts) 
Hoke. The grandfather, Rudolph Hoke, 
was a native of Pennsylvania, and died in 
Washington, then Mifflin township. The 
father was born in Washington township, 
then Mifflin township, in 1804. He learned 
the trade of shoemaker and followed that 
occupation. He owned a farm in Jackson 
township on which he lived for some years. 
After the death of his wife he went West and 
settled on a farm in Indiana. Afterwards 
he lived some time with his daughter, Eme- 
line Shoop, and moved with her to Kansas. 
He returned to his old home and died at Eliza- 
bethville in 1893, aged eighty-nine years. 
His wife died many years ago and both are 
buried at Elizabethville. Their children 
were : Mary Ann, Jonathan, Catherine, Will- 
iam, deceased, Elizabeth, Sarah, and Emeline, 
Mrs. Shoop. 

Jonathan attended the subscription schools 
of his native township and when young 
learned the trade of shoemaker, and has 
followed that occupation most of his life. 
He was for some time employed in building 
the Summit Branch railroad, received wages 
for his services at the rate of $1 per da}'. 
He was married, in Washington township 
in 1857, to Miss Carrie E. Walter, and their 
children are : Aaron D., and Catherine, died 
in infancy. After marriage he went to 
housekeeping in Elizabethville, where he 
has since resided, and where he owns several 
lots. He is a Republican in politics, and 
has served as tax collector and in other offices. 
He was reared in the Reformed church. 



Klinger, Jonathan, retired farmer, was 
born in Washington township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 26, 1840; son of Alex- 
ander and Magdaline (Smeltz) Klinger. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1121 



George Klinger, the great-grandfather, was a 
resident of Lancaster count)', where it is 
supposed lie lived most of his life. Peter 
Klinger, the grandfather, was born in Lan- 
caster county, Pa., and was a farmer and 
miller by occupation. He came to Klingers- 
town at a very early day, and later opened 
two grist mills and owned a farm. He died 
at Klingerstown about 1850. He married a 
Miss Stonebreaker and their children were : 
Philip, deceased ; Peter, deceased ; Dietz ; 
Hanna ; George F.; John; Adam; Daniel, 
resides near Klingerstown ; and Mrs. Weist. 
The father was born near Klingerstown in 
1805, and followed farming principally and 
also worked some at the miller's trade. Some 
time after his marriage he came to Wash- 
ington township and bought the farm of 
seventy-three acres on which his son Jona- 
than now lives, which was a tract of wild 
land at that time and which he cultivated 
and occupied until his death in 1876. His 
wife died in 1878. Their children were : 
Simon, farmer, in Washington township ; 
Beneval, died aged nineteen years ; Cathe- 
rine, widow of Jacob Bowman, Halifax ; 
Daniel, farmer and watch maker, Washing- 
ton township; Jonathan ; Sarah, Mrs. Ed- 
ward Romberger, Washington township ; 
Elias, farmer in Lykens township; Marietta, 
Mrs. Thomas P. Moyer, Washington town- 
ship. The father was a Republican and also 
took an active part in church matters. 

Jonathan attended the common schools of 
his native place until he was about nine 
years of age, when he went to work on the 
farm, where he grew to manhood and was 
employed in cultivating the place. He was 
married, in Washington township, April 19, 
1869, to Miss Hettie Uhler, who was born in 
the township. For ten years after his mar- 
riage Mr. Klinger cultivated the old home 
farm on the shares. His father died in 1876 
and his mother in 1888. In 1878 he bought 
and occupied the farm until 1893, when he 
rented his farm and retired to Elizabethville 
and occupied a house he had built in 1892. 
He has no children. 



.lenker, Henry, farmer, was born, in 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
September 17, 1833 ; son of Philip and Sally 
(Holtz) Lenker. The father was born in 
Mifflin township and was reared a farmer. 
He followed that occupation in connection 
with weaving. He died on the old home- 
stead farm in Upper Paxton township and 



his wife preceded him in death some j'ears. 
Their children were : Catherine, deceased ; 
Leah; William, farmer in Perry county; 
Henry ; John D., deceased ; Edward, farm- 
ing the homestead; Salome, deceased ; David 
K., farmer on the homestead; Hannah, 
widow of Jacob Zimmerman ; Elizabeth, 
maiden lady ; Amelia, maiden lady ; Mary, 
wife of David Lark, and Nathaniel, deceased. 
Henry received his education in the public 
schools and was reared a farmer. He re- 
mained at home until his eighteenth year and 
then for a few months worked out in differ- 
ent parts of the State. 

He was married, at Berrysburg, Pa., by 
Rev. David Sell, February 18, 1858, to Miss 
Elizabeth Longabauch. Their children are: 
Sarah Elizabeth, born February 4, 1859; 
Charles Edwin, born August 15, 1860 ; David 
Walker, born October 19, 1862 ; Robert Na- 
thaniel, born January 22, 1865; Henry Grant, 
born June 4, 1867 ; Philip Melancthon, born 
July 14, 1870 ; William Peter, born August 
18, 1874, and Mary Salome, born April 16, 
1879. After marriage he resided in Upper 
Paxton township and removed later to Mif- 
flin, returning again to Upper Paxton, locat- 
ing on his present place, where he has since 
had his residence. He is a member of the 
Lutheran church. 



Lenker, George N, farmer, Washington 
township, was born in Upper Paxton town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., February 25, 
1842; son of Ludwig and Amelia (Dietrick) 
Lenker. The father was born on the farm 
now owned by his son George N., where he 
grew to manhood and spent his life, with the 
exception of two years, during which he 
lived on one of his farms in Upper Paxton 
township. He retired to Elizabethville one 
year prior to his death, in 1871, at the age 
of seventy-three years. His wife survived 
him eleven years, and their children were : 
Catherine, John, Elizabeth, Susan, Jacob, 
Annie, Stephen, Joseph, and George N. 

George was about two years old when his 
parents located in Washington township, 
where he was brought up on the farm and 
attended the public schools. He remained 
at home until his marriage, after which he 
located on a part of the old homestead, which 
he bought, consisting of one hundred and 
thirty-three acres, of which he subsequently 
sold sixty acres. In 1890 he built his pres- 
ent house and built a fish pond, which he 
stocked with carp, catfish and trout. Five 



1122 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



years later he built a wind mill for grinding 
chicken feed, and planted three thousand 
two hundred fruit trees of the varieties of 
apple, pear, peach, etc. He was married, in 
Washington township, in September, 1863, 
to Amanda Emerich, a native of that town- 
ship. Their children are : Elmer, went to 
Texas, and from there in 1885 went to Ar- 
kansas, where he now resides and is in the 
lumber business ; Mary, married Aaron Nov- 
inger, resides in Arkansas; Alice, married 
Daniel Riegle, resides in Washington ; 
Annie, married Oliver Jury and lives at 
home ; George, also at home. Mr. Lenker 
in his political views is a Democrat, with 
leaning toward the Prohibition party. He 
is a member and also a trustee of the Evan- 
gelical church. 

Messner, Jacob, hotel keeper, Loyalton, 
Pa., was born in Lower Mahanoy township, 
Northumberland county, Pa., March 22, 1861 ; 
son of Philip and Mary (Dockery) Messner. 
The father was born in the same township 
in 1817, and was educated in the subscrip- 
tion schools of his time. He was brought 
up a farmer, but learned the trade of car- 
penter when a young man and followed that 
occupation and bridge building and grading 
roads and other kinds of contracting. He 
came to Tower City about 1871 with his 
family, having been engaged there since 
1868. He was one of the first builders at 
Tower City and helped to build up the place, 
having erected twenty-seven houses, and the 
Pottsville road and many bridges. In 1873 
he located on a farm of fifty acres between 
the Susquehanna river and the railroad and 
up to the time of his death gave his attention 
principally to farming. He died on his farm 
in 1883 and his wife died in February, 1884, 
and they are buried side by side in the ceme- 
tery at Vera Cruz, Northumberland county. 
Their children were: Isaac, Elizabeth, Re- 
becca, David, John, Ellen, Emma, Julia, and 
Jacob. 

Jacob attended school in his native place 
until he was nine years of age, when, in 1871, 
he removed with his parents to Tower City, 
where he continued in school for two years, 
after which he was employed in the mines at 
$3.50 per week. His father allowed him to 
retain his wages and in one year he saved 
$90. He completed his education in the 
schools of Upper Paxton township, where his 
pai'ents located on a farm. He remained at 
home until he reached manhood, when he 



engaged in farming on his own account. He 
was married, in Lower Paxton township, to 
Miss Emma Searer, daughter of George 
Searer. After marriage he located on the 
John Loutz place, which he farmed from 
1873 to 1889. During 1890 he was engaged 
in contracting and building houses. The 
carpenter trade came natural to him, as his 
father was of that occupation. In 1891 he 
was employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company in bridge and carpenter work, 
between Harrisburg and Renovo, and as- 
sisted in repairing the bridges after the awful 
flood of 1891. In 1892 he came to Loyalton 
and engaged in hotel keeping with Jonathan 
Zerby and subsequently became proprietor 
of the Loyalton Hotel. His children are : 
George, Philip A., Mary E., Esther S., Harry 
A., and Lloyd. In politics Mr. Messner is a 
Republican and is a member of the Lutheran 
church, of which he was once a trustee. 



Matter, Daniel D., blacksmith and 
farmer, Washington township, was born in 
the house in which he now lives, in Wash- 
ington township, Dauphin county, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 11, 1852. Michael Matter, the grand- 
father, was born in Mifflin, now Washington 
township, March 29, 1791, the name of whose 
father is not known, and he was the first to 
come into Lykens Valley. The grandfather 
was reared a farmer boy and followed farm- 
ing as his occupation. He was first married, 
September 29, 1814, to Annie Catherine 
Cooper, who died in 1824, aged thirty-six 
years, and by whom he had five children : 
David, Christopher, Ann, Margaret, Levi, 
and Christianna. He was married the second 
time, March 29, 1825, to Margaret Keener, 
daughter of Philip Keener. Their children 
are : Catherine Ann, Charles, James, Martin, 
Sarah, Conrad, Elizabeth, Reuben, Laviua, 
Lewis, and Mary. His second wife died May 
7, 1854. She was previously married to John 
Herman, by whom she had five children. 
She was the mother of seventeen children. 
Levi, the father, was born in Mifflin, now 
Washington township, November 24, 1820, 
and received his education in subscription 
schools, the tuition being two cents per day. 
He was reared on the farm. His father 
dying when he was about sixteen years old, 
he farmed the home place for two years, and 
at the age of eighteen years he became an 
apprentice at the blacksmith trade in his 
native township, with George Stabler, and 
afterwards followed this occupation. In 1885 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1123 



he sold the old home farm to his son Levi, 
and moved to another farm, where he died 
December 6, 1895. He was a member of St. 
John's Lutheran church, and is buried in the 
cemetery. His wife Esther still survives. 
She was born in Lykens township, November 
16, 1841, and is a daughter of Samuel Duben- 
dorf. Her children are : Emma Jane, born 
February 12,1844; Mrs. John Everson, of 
Clinton county, near Lock Haven; Elizabeth, 
wife of Jacob H. Jury, of Washington town- 
ship; Amos, died aged seventy-eight years; 
Daniel D.; Sarah Ellen, wife of Amos L. 
Koppenhaver, Harrisburg. 

Daniel D. attended school in his native 
place from the age of six years until he was 
eighteen j'ears of age, working on the home 
farm during the summer months. He then 
served a three years' apprenticeship at the 
blacksmith trade, after which he was for two 
years in partnership with his father, and then 
bought the shop of his father and began 
business for himself which he continued up 
to April, 1896, when he turned his attention 
to farming. He is the owner of the old home 
farm, having purchased it from his father in 
1885, and it now consists of thirty-seven 
acres. He was married, in Washington 
township, November 29, 1873, to Miss Emma 
Susan Lask, who was born in Mifflin town- 
ship, October 15, 1856, and is a daughter of 
Daniel and Susan (Hoy) Lask. Their chil- 
dren are : Carrie Minerva, born September 
2,1874; Maggie Irena, born February 10, 
1877 ; Aaron Franklin, born December 13, 
1878 ; Warren Lask, born February 9, 1886. 
Mr. Matter has interested himself in the suc- 
cess of the Republican party and has served 
as township auditor for one term. He is a 
member of the Lutheran church, in which 
he has served as deacon for three years, and 
as elder for two years. 



Messersmith, Edward, wagon manufac- 
turer, was born at Elizabethville, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 22, 1853 ; son of Adam 
and Polly ( Welker) Messersmith. The father 
died at Elizabethville in 1888. The mother 
died when Edward was four years old. He 
was one of four children : William, James, 
Edward, and Henry, deceased. The father 
was a Republican in politics and was not a 
member of any church. Edward was edu- 
cated in the common schools of his native 
place. At the age of sixteen years he started 
to learn the blacksmith trade with William 
Palton at Elizabethville, with whom he re- 



mained nine months and then worked three 
months with Samuel Snyder, near Loyalton, 
after which he was employed in the Will- 
iamstown collieries as blacksmith for the 
company. His wages at one time were $15 
per week and he was at different times em- 
ployed by the company. In 1893 he formed 
a partnership with Mr. Byerly for the manu- 
facture of wagons at Elizabethville, and 
they have built up a large and profitable 
business. Mr. Messersmith was married, at 
Berrysburg, to Miss Mary Snyder, by whom 
he has seven children : Nora J., Sarah E., 
Harry, Walter W., George A., Mary E., and 
Delia Irene. He is a Republican in his po- 
litical views, but he never sought office. His 
religious fellowship is with the Lutherans. 



Moyer, Rev. C. C, pastor of the Evan- 
gelical churches of Elizabethville, Oakdale, 
Lykens and Wiconisco, was born in Bloom- 
ing Glen, Bucks county, Pa., March 28, 
1867 ; son of Christian F. and Mary (Clymer) 
Moyer. Rudolph, the grandfather, spelled 
his name Meyer, previous to that it had been 
spelled Maier. He was a farmer in Mont- 
gomery county, Pa., where he died. The 
father was born in Montgomery, where he 
was reared to manhood and became a 
farmer. He was married there December 2, 
1840, and removed to a farm in Bucks 
county, where he died October 28, 1894. 
His wife was born October 25, 1825, in New 
Briton, Bucks county, and died May 10, 
1882. Their children were: William, a 
farmer, on the homestead ; Abraham, shoe- 
maker, emploved in the factory ; Henry, 
agent; John, died aged twenty-eight j'ears ; 
Rev. C. C, and several children died in in- 
fancy. The father is a Republican in poli- 
tics. 

Rev. C. C. attended the schools of his na- 
tive place until he was seventeen years of 
age. While teaching and doing other kinds 
of work he pursued a course of chemical 
and theological studies at home. For ten 
years he was a telegrapher, and served as 
ticket agent, telegraph operator and station 
agent ; has accepted twenty-eight different 
positions, and during this time he continued 
his studies for the ministry and educated 
himself. He remained for two years at 
Northampton, one year at Nazareth and 
Bath. He was then sent to Elizabethville 
in 1895. He was married, at Perkasie, Pa., 
April 7, 1887, to Miss Alice M., daughter of 
David Deily. Their children are: Elva, 



1124 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



born October 31, 1887 ; Cora, born Decem- 
ber 4, 1889, and Annie, born June 4, 1892. 
Mr. Moyer is a Prohibitionist with Republi- 
can proclivities. 



Naylor, Dr. Wilson E., dentist, Eliza- 
bethville, was born at Mt. Rock, Cumberland 
county, Pa., June 6, 1841 ; son of Nelson L. 
and Catherine (Bender) Naylor. The an- 
cestors are German, and the name was form- 
erly spelled Neilor. George Naylor, the 
grandfather, was a native of Berks county, 
and removed to Cumberland county when a 
young man, where he was engaged in farm- 
ing. His first wife was Miss Cump, whom 
he married in Berks county. He married 
his second wife in Cumberland county, and 
their children were: Daniel, George, Samuel, 
Frank, Hattie, Jane, Rebecca, and Mary. He 
was an Evangelical minister for many years 
previous to his death, which occurred at Mt. 
Rock in 1848, when he was ninety-four years 
of age. The father was born in Cumberland 
county in 1810, and was a farmer. He died 
in 1844, and his wife died in 1887, aged 
seventy-three years. 

Wilson E. is the only child of his parents, 
and received his primary education in the 
common schools of Adams county, where his 
mother located after his father's death, when 
he was three years old. He attended school 
at Bendersville until 1857, in the summer of 
which he entered Union Seminary, now Cen- 
tral Pennsjdvania College, where he took up 
Latin, Greek, and other branches of study. 
He enlisted June 21, 1861, at Harrisburg, in 
company K, Sevent3 7 -first regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania reserves, and went at once with his 
regiment to the front. He participated in 
the battles of Mechanicsville, in front of 
Richmond, June 26, 1862 ; June 27, at Gaines' 
Mill, Charles City Cross Roads; June 30, 
Meadow Hill, followed by second Bull 
Run, July 1; South Mountain, September 
14; Antietam, September 16; Fredericks- 
burg, December 13. At Gettj^sburg his left 
shoulder was pierced by a ball, and after a few 
days in the hospital he was removed to his 
home at Bendersville, ten miles from Gettys- 
burg, where he remained until completion of 
convalescence in March, 1 864. He then re- 
joined his regiment at Bristow's Station, and 
was in the battle of the Wilderness. His 
regiment occupied a prominent position dur- 
ing the fight. He was next in the battles of 
Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, and siege of 
Petersburg, and was discharged at Arlington 



Heights, July 2, 1865. He then returned 
home and began the study of dentistry with 
Dr. Schlosser, at Hagerstowu, which he pur- 
sued for one year, and the next year was 
with Dr. Bender, of Shippensburg. The next 
year he worked with Dr. H. C. Derr, at Han- 
over, and then located at Littlestown, Adams 
county, where he practiced five years. The 
next eleven years he was at Bendersville, 
and after four years at Hanover, in the 
spring of 1894, he opened an office in Eliza- 
bethville, where he has since practiced. He 
was married, at Bendersville, January 22, 

1866, to Miss Mary Wert, of that town, and 
there have been born to them four sons : 
Galen L., Joseph W., Edward G., and Reyn- 
olds. Dr. Naylor was formerly a Demo- 
crat, but now votes with the Populist party, 
and has served as auditor of the township. 
He was reared in the Evangelical church. 

Pflueger, Rev. E. 0., pastor of Salem 
Evangelical Lutheran church, Elizabeth ville, 
Gratz, and Rife Center, was born in Shanes- 
ville, Pa., March 11, 1861 ; son of James S. and 
Elizabeth Pflueger. The grandfather was a 
native of Germany and came to America with 
his wife and eldest child about 1817. They 
were not rich and moved about to different 
places. He did not live long, and his wife 
married again and had children by her sec- 
ond husband. The father- was born in Lit- 
itz, Pa. His father died when he was young 
and he was reared in Lehigh county by a 
brother. He grew to manhood and learned 
the tailor trade. He married in Allentown 
and located near Shanesville, Pa., where he 
was most of the time engaged in farming, 
and removed to Berks county in 1866 or 

1867, where he gave his whole attention to 
farming, and died while residing with his 
son Oliver J., at Allentown. His wife sur- 
vived him fourteen years, dying at Allen- 
town, March 11,1885. Their children are : 
Oliver J., machinist, at Allentown, Pa.; 
Asher P., Lutheran minister, and Rev. 0. E. 
In his political views the father was a Dem- 
ocrat. 

Rev. 0. E. when five years of age removed 
with his parents to Quakerstown, Berks 
county, Pa., where he attended school until 
his father died, when the family removed to 
Allentown, where he continued in school 
until he was seventeen years of age, after 
which he was engaged in teaching for two 
years. He was graduated from Muhlenburg 
College, at Allentown, in 1884, and at once 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1125 



entered the Lutheran Theological Seminary, 
at Philadelphia, from which he was grad- 
uated in 1887. On June 7, 1887, he was or- 
dained to the ministry by the Evangelical 
ministers of Philadelphia, and at once took 
charge of the congregation at Beaverton, 
Pa., where he remained until July 1, 1889, 
when he accepted a call to the Lykens Val- 
ley charge at Elizabethville, which consisted 
of five congregations, two of which have since 
become independent charges and self-sus- 
taining. He was married, at Fogelsville, 
Pa., June 14, 1887, to Miss Ella C. Leopold, 
daughter of Rev. 0. and Maria (Daniel) 
Leopold. They have no children. Mr. 
Pflueger votes the Democratic ticket, but is 
not in any sense a politician. 



Romberger, Cyrus, retired mearchant, 
Washington township, was born in Lykens 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., July 14, 
1843; son of Daniel and Hannah (Berg- 
stresser) Romberger. He attended school in 
Lykens township until twelve years of age, 
when he removed with his parents to Wash- 
ington township, where he resumed his 
schooling, and at the age of seventeen years 
he entered Berrysburg Academy, which he 
attended for four or five terms, and after- 
wards took four terms at Millersburg Acad- 
emy. While attending school he did con- 
siderable work at home on the farm during 
vacations. At the age of nineteen years he 
began teaching winter schools and in all 
taught eleven terms, three of which were in 
Schuylkill county. Much of his teaching 
was in the coal regions, where at times he had 
many unmanageable children. On account 
of impaired and failing health he was 
obliged to abandon teaching, and in 1875 he 
embarked in mercantile business at Hern- 
don, Northumberland county. He disposed 
of his store and in the spring of 1877, as- 
sumed charged of the co-operative store at 
Elizabethville, of which he was the agent, a 
stockholder and the manager, the firm being 
Romberger & Co. After six years the firm 
was dissolved by mutual consent and the 
stock disposed of. In one year he sold 
$27,000 worth of goods, and as he was un- 
willing to continue on his salary of $500 
per year the company was dissolved. He 
then bought fifteen acres of land, on which 
he built a store house, and in company with 
his brother John A. opened a flour and 
feed store, and succeeded in building up a 
large and increasing trade. In December, 



1894, he disposed of his interest to his 
brother, and was employed by R. Budd, in 
Snyder county, with whom he remained for 
one year. With the exception of managing 
his two farms of one hundred and fifty-eight 
and one hundred and ninety-two acres, he is 
retired from active business, hiring his farm 
laborers by the day, and only superintend- 
ing their work. Mr. Romberger was mar- 
ried, at Herndon, Northumberland county, 
May 25, 1875, to Miss Louisa E. Troutman, 
born in that county, June 30, 1851 ; daughter 
of Samuel and Catherine (Hepler) Troutman. 
They have the following children : Martha, 
born July 15, 1876, graduate of Bloomsburg 
State Normal Scbool, and now teaching 
school at Elizabethville ; Oscar L., born April 
17, 1878, at home; Daniel Homer, born April 
5, 1880; StewartS., born February 14, 1883; 
Agnes E., born June 19, 1884 ; Verna Irene, 
born October 14, 1885; Hannah E., Janu- 
ary 1, 1887, and Robert Raymond, born Oc- 
tober 14, 1889. In politics Mr. Romberger 
is a Republican, and was justice of the peace 
from 1886 to 1891, and in 1896 was elected 
for another term of five years. He is a mem- 
ber of the Evangelical church, in which he 
has been a class-leader since 1888, a teacher 
in the Sunday-school and member of the 
Young People's Society. 

Romberger, John A., dealer in coal; lum- 
ber, grain, seeds, and potatoes, Elizabeth- 
ville, Pa., was born on the old homestead, in 
Lykens township, Dauphin county, April 
21, 1850 ; son of Daniel and Hannah (Berg- 
stresser) Romberger. When he was six years 
old his parents removed to Washington 
township, where he attended the common 
school during the winter months. When old 
enough to labor he assisted his father in the 
farm work, and at sixteen years of age en- 
tered the Freeburg Academy, in Snyder 
county, and remained for two terms, after 
which he taught school, one term in Lykens 
and two terms in Washington township. 
One of these terms he taught after his mar- 
riage. After his school closed he went to 
housekeeping on the home farm, and culti- 
vated the place on shares with his father 
until 1881. During the following two years 
he was employed in the creamery at Eliza- 
bethville, and in December, 1883, with his 
brother, opened a flour and feed store, and 
shortly afterwards erected a building to ac- 
commodate the increasing trade. The firm 
continued to be C. and J. A. Romberger 



1126 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



until December, 1894, when he bought his 
brother's interest and has since continued 
the business alone. 

Mr. Romberger was first married, Novem- 
ber 23, 1871, at Berrysburg, Pa., to Miss 
Mary Row, a native of Lykens township, 
daughter of George and Elizabeth (Kissen- 
ger) Row. She fell a victim to the dread dis- 
ease of consumption, and died, after an ill- 
ness of three years, October 23, 18S1, only 
three days after the family had removed 
from the home farm to Elizabethville, and 
is interred at Berrysburg. She was a mem- 
ber of the Evangelical Association. The 
children by her are : Laura A., a graduate of 
Bloomsburg Normal School, who has taught 
two terms, one at Lykens and one at Eliza- 
bethville ; and Annie C, studied music at 
Fredericksburg Academy, and also studied 
painting. He was married, secondly, May 2, 
1882, at Herndon, Northumberland county, 
Pa., to Miss Emma Troutman, a native of 
Snyder county, Pa., born in 1857 ; daughter 
of Samuel and Catherine (Hepler) Trout- 
man ; the latter died in 1888. The children 
of the second marriage are : Clair F., attend- 
ing school, at home ; Nettie Estelle, and 
Floyd T., both at home. Mr. Romberger 
attends the Evangelical church at Elizabeth- 
ville, of which he is a trustee, and is the 
superintendent of the Sunday-school. He is 
a staunch Republican, and has served on 
the school board two years, has been notary 
public four years, appointed by Governor 
Beaver, and also served as school director 
and assessor when living in the township. 



Romberger, Edward, farmer, Washing- 
ton township, was born in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., July 30, 1841 ; son of 
Daniel and Hannah(Bergstresser) Romberger. 
He acquired his education for the most part 
in the common schools of his native place, 
and at the age of seventeen years spent three 
months in the Seminary at New Berlin, Union 
county. After coming from the Seminary he 
taught school one term at Williamstown, Pa., 
in which he had all the children from Wico- 
nisco to the county line — twenty-four or five 
in all. Not liking the occupation of teach- 
ing he took up farming. When he was fif- 
teen years old his parents located on the farm 
which he now owns and which he bought 
when he was fortj r years old. It now con- 
sists of two hundred and sixty acres, of which 
one hundred and sixty are cleared. It origi- 
nally was over four hundred acres, for which 



his father paid $13,000, and he paid his father 
$14,000 for two hundred and twenty-three 
acres. 

After his marriage and previous to his 
father's death he had for sixteen years occu- 
pied a farm in Lykens township, bought from 
liis father, and which he sold after his father's 
death and bought his present farm. He was 
married, January 10, 1867, to Miss Sarah 
Klinger, daughter of Alexander Klinger, na- 
tive of Washington township, and she has 
bourn him two children : Elmer Wesley, born 
September 6, 1872, at home ; Alice C, born 
March 19, 1870, wife of P. W. G. Raker, a 
school teacher at Williamstown. Mr. Rom- 
berger is a Republican and has served as a 
school director in Washington township one 
term, and also as assessor. He is a member 
of the Evangelical church and has served as 
a trustee in the same for many years. 



Swab, John G., carpenter, was born in 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 20, 1831 ; son of George and Catha- 
rine (Umholtz) Swab. The father was born 
in Mifflin county, Pa., February 9, 1802, and 
early in life learned the carpenter trade, 
which be followed all his life. He died at 
Elizabethville, July, 1888, and his wife in 
1863. They are both buried in St. John's 
cemetery. In politics he was a Republican 
and served one term as constable and as 
supervisor several terms. His children were : 
Lavina, Cyrus, Sarah, John G., Catharine, 
Elizabeth, Joseph, George, David, and Mary. 

John G. first attended the subscription 
and then for eight years the public schools. 
At the age of sixteen he began to learn the 
carpenter trade with his father, with whom 
he worked four or five years. After work- 
ing at his trade in various places for a few 
years he went West in company with Isaac 
Yeager. Both soon found employment at 
Warren, 111. After building a number of 
houses in this State Mr. Swab went to Mans- 
field, Ohio, but failing to secure employment 
returned home in February, 1855. He then 
began working in Lykens, Pa., and later 
moved to Pine Valley, and from there to 
Swatara township, where he and his family 
resided seven years. They next came to 
Dauphin county, and located near Halifax, 
where they lived eleven years, during which 
time they were engaged in farming. On 
March 28, 1878, Mr. Swab located on the old 
homestead, which he purchased from his 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1127 



father, and has since divided his time be- 
tween farming and doing carpenter work. 

He was married, in Schuylkill county, in 
1856, to Miss Rachel, daughter of David 
Shucker. Their children are : Jacob, John, 
Mary Ann, Sarah Catharine, George Harri- 
son, and Emma Jane. In politics Mr. Swab 
is a Republican and held the office of asses- 
sor in 1886, and was tax collector for two 
terms. He is strongly inclined toward the 
United Brethren church, but is not con- 
nected with any denomination. 



Swab, John D., farmer, Washington town- 
ship, was born in the township, January 25, 
1848 ; son of Daniel and Sarah (Heller) 
Swab. He was born and reared on the farm 
on which he now lives, and acquired his edu- 
cation in the common schools of Washing- 
ton township. He remained on the home 
farm until he was married and then took 
up his residence on the place. He was mar- 
ried, at Killinger, Pa., by Rev. Lesser, to 
Miss Lena Hartman, daughter of Jacob 
Hartman. Their children are : Mary Ellen, 
at home; Daniel, at home ; Nathaniel, Eli, 
and William Oscar. He has a farm of eighty- 
five acres and is interested in raising fine 
stock. In his religious faith he is a Lu- 
theran and an elder in the church. He is a 
Democrat in politics and has served one 
term as school director. 



Scheffler, Henry W., chief burgess of 
Elizabethville, Pa., was born in Washington 
township, Northumberland county, Pa., No- 
vember 13, 1839 ; son of Jonas and Eliza- 
beth (Witmer) Schemer. Gotfried Scheffler, 
the grandfather, was a native of Berks 
county, and married Miss Lebo, in North- 
umberland county, where he settled on a 
farm in Lower Mahanoy township, and 
later located in Washington township, Dau- 
phin county, where he died, aged seventy 
years; his wife died about the same time. 
Their children are: Joseph, John, Peter, 
Fred, Jonas, Jacob, Daniel, Susan, Eliza- 
beth, Lydia, and Eva. 

Jonas, the father, was a native of North- 
umberland county, and was a shoemaker by 
trade, which occupation was his principal 
employment. For some years he was in 
poor health and unfitted for business. His 
death occurred in Mifflin township in 1852, 
in the thirty-fifth year of his age. His 
children by the mother of Henry W. are: 
Henry W., Sarah, Mary, Benjamin, Elias, 



Jonas, Walter, and one son who died in in- 
fancy. 

Henry W. first attended a school taught 
by a German teacher in an old house owned 
by Elijah Byerly, two miles from his own 
home. When he was eleven years old his 
parents removed to Mahantango township, 
same county, where he continued his educa- 
tion in German for one year, when another 
removal of the famity took place, and their 
new location was in Mifflin township, Dau- 
phin county. At the age of thirteen years 
he worked with his grandfather for two 
years for his board and clothing, after which 
he came home and got $2 a month in sum- 
mer, and his board and clothing in the 
winter and schooling. After the death of 
his father his mother hired him out to 
farmers for eight years on these same terms, 
$2 per month for eight months, and his 
board, clothing and schooling for four 
months. At the age of twenty years he be- 
gan to learn the carpenter trade in Wash- 
ington township, with Jacob Miller, and 
served an apprenticeship of two years, and 
from 1858 to the present time has followed 
that trade. His work has called him all 
over this and adjoining counties. During 
the war in 1861 business was dull and he 
was engaged at his trade in Juniata county. 
During the later years of his life he received 
good wages. 

He was married, in Sunbury, Pa., in 1865, 
to Miss Mary J. Matter, of Washington 
township, who died in 1877. They had six 
children, of whom two are living : Annie E., 
wife of William J. Lloyd, Camden, N. J., 
and William H, married Annie piebler, 
Elizabethville, Pa. Mr. Scheffler was mar- 
ried, secondly, in 1878, to Sally Weaver, of 
Mifflin township, and to them have been 
born two children : Alice A. and John W. 
Mr. Scheffler has taken a prominent part in 
politics as a member of the Democratic 
part}'. He is now chief burgess and is nomi- 
nated for a third term. In religious views 
and fellowship he is a Lutheran and an active 
worker in the church. In 1887 he withdrew 
from the Odd Fellows and Free Masons. 



Spracht, Harry W., blacksmith, Eliza- 
bethville, was born near Berrysburg, Mifflin 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., May 24, 
1867; son of Jeremiah and Mary (Koppen- 
heffer) Spracht. The father was born at 
Mahanoy Station, Pa., and was a shoemaker 
by trade. He died young, and the mother 



1128 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



subsequently married Isaac Shetz, and re- 
sides near Johnstown, Pa. They had two 
children: Harry W. and Edward W., farmer 
in Lykens Valley. 

Harry W. was a young boy when his 
father died, and was reared by his grand- 
father in Washington township, where he 
attended school until he was ten years old, 
when he left his grandfather and lived out, 
getting what schooling he could in the win- 
ter time. At eighteen years of age he went 
to learn the trade of blacksmith with Daniel 
E. Snyder, with whom he served an ap- 
prenticeship of two years and afterwards 
worked a year and a half longer as a jour- 
neyman. He came to Elizabethville and 
opened a shop, where he worked five years 
and then built the shop which he now 
occupies. He was married, at Camden, N. J., in 
October, 1882, to Miss Fanny Koppenhefflr. 
They have two children : Mark C. and 
Ralph Monroe. Mr. Spracht is a Democrat 
in politics and served as school director one 
year. In February, 1896, he was elected to 
the council. He is a member of the Lu- 
theran church. 



Stauffer, Rev. J. J., pastor of Salem Re- 
formed church, Elizabethville, was born July 
11, 1860; son of Daniel and Fannie (Long) 
Stauffer, the latter deceased. Three Stauffer 
brothers came from Spain, one of whom 
settled in Bucks, one in Montgomery and 
one in Chester county, and all were farmers 
by occupation. Jacob Stauffer, the grand- 
father, was a native of Bucks county, where 
he was engaged in farming and where he 
died. He married a Miss Schantz, who 
survived him some years. Their children 
were : Peter, resides at Wilkes-Barre ; Will- 
iam, deceased ; Jacob deceased ; Daniel; and 
Polly, Mrs. Groff, Lancaster, Pa. 

The father was born in Bucks county, in 
1824, where he was reared and received his 
education in the common schools. He first 
learned the trade of cabinet maker, and after- 
wards that of coach maker. He married 
Miss Fannie Long, and settled at Crockers- 
port, where he continued business at his 
trade, which he conducted for thirty years. 
He is now living retired at that place, and 
his son Harvey continues the business. His 
wife died September 11, 1877. Their chil- 
dren are: Annie, Mrs. William Falk, Brook- 
haven, Pa.; Eugene E., painter for railroad, 
Elizabeth, N. J.; Rev. J. J.; Harvey D. P.; 
Samuel P., Lutheran minister, at present 



taking special course at Johns Hopkins Uni- 
versity ; George A., theological student. Mr. 
Stauffer is a strong Prohibitionist and a 
member of the Sons of Temperance for forty 
years. 

Rev. J. J. Stauffer attended the public 
schools until he was nineteen years of age, 
and during vacation was engaged in work 
with his father. At this age he entered the 
State Normal School at Kutztown, and re- 
mained for two years, and then prepared 
for college at the Muhlenburg Academy, at 
Allentown, taking a two years' cours", and 
was admitted to the Freshman class of Ursi- 
nus College in the fall of 1880, and was 
graduated from that institution in 1884. 
His theological course was also taken at the 
same college, and was completed two years 
later. He at once accepted a call to the 
church at East Berlin, Adams county, Pa., 
and on taking charge of that congregation 
was ordained to the same office in June, 

1886. He remained in this charge three 
years and was then called to Westport and 
East Mauch Chunk, where his pastorate 
continued until he was called to Elizabeth- 
ville in 1891, where he has since labored. 
His work at this place has been crowned with 
success, of which the new parsonage and 
other substantial improvements in the prop- 
erty and the growth of the Sabbath-school 
and increase of church membership are all 
marked evidences. Mr. Stauffer also looks 
after the spiritual welfare of the church at 
Berrysburg, Hoffman's church and Gratz. 

He was married, at East Berlin, October 6, 

1887, to Miss Ella E. Refert, daughter of 
Edward and Catherine Refert, by whom he 
has three children : Refert Ursinus, died 
aged four and a half years; Emma Lulu, 
born August 26, 1890, and Lottie Mav, born 
September 18, 1892. Mr. Stauffer is "a pro- 
nounced Prohibitionist, and believes that 
the suppression of the liquor business 
through public action is the prominent issue 
of the day and is to be attained by the crea- 
tion of a high moral public sentiment. 



Stine, Peter L., merchant, Elizabeth- 
ville, was born in Lykens township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., July 26, 1827 ; son of John 
P. and Regina (Coleman) Stine. Frederick 
Stine, the grandfather, was born in Germany, 
and received his education in his native 
land, where he also learned the trade of 
stone mason. He came to America in 1781, 
lauded at Philadelphia and settled in Mont- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1129 



gomery county, where he worked at his 
trade, and later removed to Dauphin county. 
He married Abigail Lamb, who died in 1804. 
Their children are : John P.; Elizabeth, de- 
ceased, Mrs. Andrew Riegle ; Rosina, de- 
ceased, Mrs. John Coleman ; Catherine, de- 
ceased, Mrs. John Dietz. 

The father was born in Montgomery 
county, Pa., in 1784. At the age of four 
years his pai'ents settled in Lykens township, 
where he grew to manhood, and was edu- 
ucated in the subscription schools of the 
time. His death occurred on the old home- 
stead, August 17, 1854. His wife was born 
in Lykens township, August, 1795. She 
was Regina Coleman, daughter of Charles 
Coleman, and died at the home of her daugh- 
ter, Elizabeth Retzman, at Gratz, Pa., in Oc- 
tober, 1878. Their children are : Catherine, 
deceased, wife of Henry Moyer, and after- 
wards of Peter Moyer ; Frederick, died aged 
seventeen years; Helen, deceased, wife of 
James Glenn; John, died in Schuylkill 
county, Pa.; Daniel P., Lykens township, 
saddler and farmer ; Elizabeth, widow of 
Daniel Retzman ; Abigail, wife of Joseph D. 
Frank, Pottsville, Pa.; Peter L.; Charles, 
located in Perry county and died there in 
1893; Jonas, engineer on the Reading rail- 
road, at Pottsville ; Isaac, died aged fifteen 
months ; Anna Maria, died aged eleven 
months ; and Josiah P., farmer and tanner, 
Washington township. 

Peter L. acquired his education in the 
common schools. At the age of twenty-one 
he opened a flour and feed store, at Potts- 
ville, Pa., which proved unsuccessful as a 
business venture, losing him his entire in- 
vestment. He managed to pay his debts and 
resumed work on the home farm with his 
father, who sold him ninety acres of wild 
land, which he cleared up and improved, 
and which, in 1854, he sold to his brother 
Daniel P. He bought from his father a half 
interest in the farm and mill property, in 
Washington township, and run the mill with 
his brother in connection with farming until 
1871, the firm being P. L. & C. Stine. In 
1871 they admitted to partnership George 
Diebler, and continued one year, when Diebler 
died. He bought Diebler's interest, who had 
also, before his death, obtained his brother's 
interest, and continued the business alone 
until 1873, when he admitted Harry Herman 
as a partner. He continued this partnership 
until 1885, when he sold his interest to Na- 
thaniel Miller, and opened his present store, 



buying the property and putting in a new 
general stock of goods, and has since con- 
tinued the business. He was appointed Gov- 
ernment store keeper and gauger and had 
the position until a change of administra- 
tion, during which time he saved from his 
income $27,000. But he later met with ad- 
versity, losing in 1876 and 1877 $21,000, 
which did not discourage him, but impelled 
him to renewed energy and enterprise. 

Mr. Stine was married, in Upper Paxton 
township, December 17, 1850, to Miss Eliza- 
beth Buffington, a native of Gratz, Pa., and 
a daughter of Maj. Jacob Buffington. She 
died May 15, 1893. She was a devout mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church and much in- 
terested in all charitable work, and a loving 
and faithful wife and mother. Their children 
are : Ellen R., Mrs. George Diebler ; Sarah 
L., wife of D. J. Diebler ; Isaac F.; Cathe- 
rine, deceased; Peter; David; John J.; 
Harry W.; Carrie, Mrs. Charles E. Cooper ; 
and Samuel J. Mr. Stine is a Democrat and 
is serving as a school director. In 1875, and 
again in 1877, he was elected county com- 
missioner, but was counted out both times. 
He was an elder in the Reformed church for 
many years and takes an active interest in 
Sunday-school matters. 

Stine, Josiah P., farmer and tanner, was 
born in Lykens township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., September 9, 1837. He attended school 
only ten days in all his life. He worked at 
home for his father until he was sixteen 
years of age, when he and his brother went 
West in search of employment, in 1855, and 
rented a farm in Ogle county, 111. They 
were soon discouraged and remained only 
two months, returning home in May. On 
the way his pocket was picked of $32. He 
then served an apprenticeship of two and a 
half years at the tanner's trade at Gratz, Pa., 
after which he bought the hometanneiw and 
eight acres of land in Washington township, 
where lie has continued for thirty-seven 
years. He has added to the original pur- 
chase forty-nine acres and has conducted 
farming operations in connection with the 
tannery. 

He was married, at Gratz, Pa., February 
16, 1857, to Miss Catherine Louisa Good, 
born in Lykens township, November 5, 1837 ; 
daughter of Daniel and Margaret (Rudy) 
Good. Their children are: Franklin Peter, 
born August 6, 1858, in Lykens township, 
educated in the township school, Berrysburg 



1130 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Academy and Millersville State Normal 
School, and has taught six years in Wash- 
ington township and three years in Upper 
Paxton; Daniel M., born in Washington 
township, February 24, 1860, educated in 
home schools and Millerstown Academy and 
is now assistant in the high school at Will- 
iarnstown, married to Mary C. Frank ; Mary 
L., born January 9, 1863, wife of Samuel W. 
Cooper. Mr. Stine is a Democrat in politics 
and an active worker in the Reformed 
church. 



Webner, Aaron, farmer, Washington 
township, was born in Washington town- 
ship, Dauphin county, Pa., October 2, 1853 ; 
son of George and Hannah (Longabach) 
Webner. He attended the common schools 
in his native township during the winter 
months and worked on the home farm in 
the summers, and remained at home till his 
marriage, which occurred in Washington 
township, December 2, 1876, when he was 
united to Miss Mary Jane Sulzbach, daugh- 
ter of Joseph and Hannah (Landis) Sulz- 
bach. His father having returned to Eliza- 
bethville, he located on the old homestead, 
and has since bought the place, which con- 
sists of fifty acres with good buildings and 
other improvements. His children are : 
Hannah Nora, born September 2, 1877, at 
home; George Joseph, born December 28, 
1879 ; Annie M., born October 5, 1883, at 
home; Edward Allen, born July 2, 1887. 
Mr. Webner is a Democrat in his political 
views. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church, and has served as elder, deacon and 
trustee for some vears. 



Boyer, Wesley, farmer, Washington 
township, was born on his present farm, in 
Washington township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
November 14, 1856 ; son of Gabriel and 
Maulda (Ginler) Boyer. The father was born 
in Berks county, Pa., in 1823, and when a 
boy removed with his parents to Lower 
Mahanoy township, Northumberland county, 
where he was reared and educated. In 1842 
he came with his parents to Dauphin county 
and learned the miller's trade near Loyalton, 
at which he worked for a short time. When 
his father died he took the old Lowe farm at 
Millersburg, which he worked for a year or 
two, and subsequently gave his attention to 
farming until his death, October 14, 1887. 
He is interred in the Berrysburg cemetery. 
His wife survived him, passing away in May, 



1892. She was of the Lutheran faith, and 
active in Christian and benevolent affairs. 
Mr. Boyer was a Democrat in politics. 

Wesley was the only child of his parents, 
and they afforded him the most liberal edu- 
cational advantages. They planned to give 
him a collegiate education, but he preferred 
business to study, and desired to be a mer- 
chant. His father did not deem it necessary 
for him to go into business, as he was the 
only child and heir and would succeed to 
the homestead. He developed unusual me- 
chanical ability, and has constructed several 
farming implements and does all his own 
repairing. Mr. Boyer was married, in 
Washington township, in 1880, to Miss Lydia 
Ann Row, daughter of John M. and Lizzie 
(Wolf) Row. After the death of his parents 
he occupied the old homestead, to the owner- 
ship of which he succeeded. Their only 
child, Frances Ellen, was born October 15, 
1880. Mr. Boyer is a Democrat in his po- 
litical views. 



Arnts, Jacob, creameryman, Elizabeth- 
ville, Pa., was born in Bainbridge, Lancaster 
county, Pa., January 13, 1858 ; son of John 
and Barbara Arnts. The grandfather, Garret 
Arnts, was a lumberman and died in the 
lumber regions. The father was born in 
Clearfield county, Pa., and is a day laborer. 
He was reared in Bainbridge, Lancaster 
county, where he resides at the present time 
in the enjoyment of good health. His chil- 
dren are: Lizzie, Mrs. Sears, Harrisburg, Pa., 
Mahata, Mrs. Eners, York, Pa.; Jacob ; Gar- 
ret, merchant in Lebanon ; Harry, cigar 
maker, York, Pa.; Sarnina, Mrs. Addick, re- 
siding near Harrisburg. In politics the 
father is a Republican, and entered the-army 
in 1861 and served until the close of the war. 

Jacob received his education in the com- 
mon schools of his native place. At the age 
of twelve he began work as a farm hand and 
used his earnings for the support of the family. 
He was married, in Mt. Joy, Lancaster county, 
October 9, 1881, to Miss Labina Fack, who is 
a native of Lancaster county and was born 
in 1862. Their children are: Norman F., 
Elsie, Clara, and Howard. After his mar- 
riage, Mr. Arnts first settled on a farm near 
Mt. Joy, and worked by the day for two years, 
when he went to Lancaster and was engaged 
in a creamery for one year; at the end of 
which time he returned to Mt. Joy. He next 
went to Bird -in-Hand, Lancaster county, and 
worked in a creamery for five years. From 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1131 



here he moved to Millerstown, Perry county, 
where he established a creamery, which he 
operated for some time, then came to Eliza- 
bethville and began business with Messrs. 
Mittis & Speck. Firm continued thus for 
three years, when Mr. Speck sold his interest 
to Arnts and Mittis, under which name the 
firm now does business. In 1892 a branch 
creamery was started at Gratz. In politics 
Mr. Arnts is a Republican and has never 
sought any office. 



WAYNE TOWNSHIP. 



Sponsler, Joseph D., was born in Halifax 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., September 
28, 1844. He is a son of Andrew and Ann 
(Sweigard) Sponsler. The Sponslers are of 
German ancestry and were all staunch Dem- 
ocrats. Andrew Sponsler was born in Middle 
Paxton township and grew up in his native 
place. He was a wagon maker. After his 
marriage he settled in Halifax township and 
was engaged in farming until he went West 
with his daughters. He died in the West 
about 1890. His wife had preceded him to the 
grave by about fifteen years. Their chil- 
dren are : Michael W.; Harriet, wife of 
Harry Northhammer, Harrisburg, Pa.; Mar- 
garet, wife of Wesley Stover, resides in the 
West ; John A., died aged about thirty-five 
years; Joseph D.; Susan, married to a Mr. 
Black, resides in the West ; Henry, died 
aged twenty-two years ; and William, mar- 
ried and resides in the West. 

Joseph D. Sponsler attended the common 
schools of Matamoras, Halifax township. 
After finishing his school education he re- 
mained with his father on the farm until he 
was twenty-one. He then began an appren- 
ticeship of three years at blacksmithing with 
Leonard Poffenberger at Dauphin, Pa. He 
was to receive $36 per year for his services, 
and at the end of three years he had $36 due 
him. From Dauphin he went to Millers- 
burg and worked at his trade for Theodore 
Jury at $50 per month. At the end of four 
months he went to Halifax and worked for 
Christian Lyter at $40 per month. A few 
months later he began business for himself 
in Halifax and continued there for several 
years. He then opened a shop below Mata- 
moras, where he remained for about three 
years. After this he bought his present 
place of Jacob Stansbury, consisting of a shop 
and about eight acres of land, for which he 



paid $700. He has since built a new house 
and barn and made other improvements. 
About 1870 Mr. Sponsler began to offer his 
services as an auctioneer, and he has been 
widely employed in this capacity. In both 
branches of his business, as blacksmith and 
as auctioneer, he is successful. In the latter 
vocation he is brought into contact with the 
people of this and adjacent counties, and 
being a close observer, with a keen apprecia- 
tion of the humorous phases of human na- 
ture, he has many interesting and amusing 
things to tell of his experiences. 

Joseph Sponsler was married, in Halifax 
township, September 26, 1867, to Miss Sarah 
A., daughter of Jacob Knauff. They have 
five children : Jacob K., married Annie Lebo, 
resides in the borough of Halifax ; Laura, 
wife of Thomas Lebo, Harrisburg, Pa.; John 
N., operator at Burlingame, Pa.; Harvey, 
and Sylvia, at home. Mr. Sponsler is a strong 
Republican. He was for four years constable 
in Halifax township. He and his wife were 
reared in the United Brethren church. Mr. 
Sponsler is a self-made man. He is a good 
talker, intelligent and sociable, and enjoys 
the esteem and good will of his neighbors. 

Enders, John, was born in Jefferson town- 
ship, now Wayne, Dauphin county, Pa., Au- 
gust 26, 1837. He is a son of Philip and 
Nancy (Sheetz) Enders. Philip Enders was 
born in Jackson township, Dauphin county, 
May 22, 1805. He grew up and married in 
his native place. After his marriage he suc- 
ceeded his father on the place where his son, 
John Enders, now resides; he remained upon 
this place until his death, which occurred 
December 14, 1859. His wife died January 
9,1891. Their living children are: Sarah, 
widow of Benjamin Radel, Wayne township ; 
Mary, wife of Samuel Coogley, Logansport, 
Ind.j Peter, farmer in Jefferson township; 
John ; Elizabeth, widow of John Lebo, 
Wayne township ; Amanda, wife of Elias 
Rettinger, Wayne township. Mr. Enders 
was a Democrat. 

John Enders was educated in the common 
schools of his native place, and left school at 
about eighteen years of age. He was reared 
as farmer's boys usually are. He succeeded 
his father on the home farm in 1859, and 
since that time, with the exception of two 
years, he has always farmed the place. In 
1865 he went West on a tour of inspection, 
seeking a favorable place to locate. He was 
accompanied by his wife, visited Indiana and 



1132 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Illinois, and was absent seven months. He 
rented his farm for two years, and left his 
live stock in care of his neighbors while he 
was on his journey. He bought a home in 
Armstrong Valley, Jackson township. 

Mr. Enders was married, in Jackson town- 
ship, October 9, 1859, to Miss Amanda, 
daughter of John Grimm. They have five 
children: Charles, merchant at Logansport; 
Clara, died aged three years; Alice, wife of 
Abel Palmer, Washington township.; Har- 
vey and Katy, at home. Mr. Enders is a 
strong Democrat. He is a member of the 
United Brethren church, is a trustee of the 
church, and treasurer both of the church and 
of the Sunday-school. In December, 1895, 
Mr. and Mrs. Enders paid a visit to their 
son, who was sick at Logansport, Ind. 



Hoffman, Cornelius, was born in Mifflin 
township, afterwards Washington township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., April 24, 1831. He 
was a son of Christian and Sarah (Tobias) 
Hoffman. His great-grandfather, John P. 
Hoffman, came from Germany when a 
young man, and located in Berks county, 
Pa., whence he later removed on horseback 
to Lykens Valley. The country at that time 
was "wild and occupied by Indians, numer- 
ous and savage, from whom the travelers 
were often compelled to flee. When Mr. 
Hoffman reached Lykens Valley an old 
rooster crowed, and he took that as a sign to 
stop and make a home there. He died in 
Lykens Valley at the advanced age of ninety. 
Christian Hoffman, grandfather of Cornelius, 
succeeded his father, John P., on the home- 
stead in Lykens Valley, and died there. 
His son Christian, father of Cornelius Hoff- 
man, was born in Lykens Valley, near Short 
Mountain, Dauphin county, Pa., July 30, 
1799. He grew up in his native place, was 
married there and there died, June 1, 1870. 
He was fairly educated and was a farmer. 
He was a member of the Reformed church. 
His wife Sarah was born in Berne town- 
ship, Berks county, Pa., October 5, 1802, and 
came with her mother in early youth to 
Lykens Valley, her father having lost his 
life by falling from his barn. She died Sep- 
tember 5, 1870. Their children are: Will- 
iam, born August 5, 1823, resided in Lykens 
Valley until he was forty-seven years old, 
then removed to Illinois, and finally located 
at Victoria, Cass county, Neb., where he 
died in 1894, leaving a daughter and three 
sons ; Sarah, born December 5, 1825, mar- 



ried Benjamin Swamp, resided in Mercer 
county, Pa., until 1884, since which date 
they have been residents of Kansas; Mary 
M., born April 12, 1828, widow of John Um- 
holtz, of Halifax township, Dauphin county; 
Cornelius ; Peter, born February 22, 1833, 
died of apoplexy in Lykens Valley, Febru- 
ary 15, 1895 ; Rebecca, born November 13, 
1834, widow of Emanuel Forney, living with 
her son, near Fisherville, Pa.; John T., born 
July 12, 1837, resides in Upper Paxton town- 
ship; Henry H., born December 16, 1839, 
since 1870 a resident of Republic county, 
Kan.; Susan, born December 27, 1842, mar- 
ried John Knoll, removed to Mercer county, 
Pa., later to Cincinnati, Ohio, and died 
there in the fall of 1895 ; Emma J., born 
April 22, 1846, married Joseph Tyson, who 
died in Powell's Valley, she went to Kansas 
about 1872, and married a Mr. Rowe, with 
whom she lives in the Indian Territory; and 
Sallie C, born November 4, 1847, wife of 
George Dunkle, removed to Mercer county, 
and later to Butler county, Pa., where they 
now reside. 

Cornelius Hoffman first attended the 
schools of his native place, and afterwards 
was a pupil at the Berrysburg Seminary for 
two years. He was twenty-three years old 
when he left the seminar}' ; he afterwards 
taught school for twelve winter terms in 
Jefferson and Washington townships. He 
was brought up a farmer's boy, and never 
served an apprenticeship at any trade, yet 
he was skillful in the use of tools, and 
could accomplish good mechanical results 
in carpentry and other branches of work- 
manship. He made himself a gun. While 
teaching school during the winter seasons, 
Mr. Hoffman would work for wages as a 
farm hand in the busy months for farm 
work ; thus he obtained the means for a 
more liberal education. He literally edu- 
cated himself by the labor of his hands. 

Cornelius Hoffman was married, in Jack- 
son township, November 4, 1856, to Mary 
Ann Hassinger, born in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county. When about eight years 
of age she removed with her parents to 
Washington township, where she resided 
until her marriage. She died August 29, 
1895, aged sixty years, eight months and 
twenty-three days. Mrs. Hoffman was the 
daughter of Jeremiah and Esther (Smells) 
Hassinger. In early infancy she was ad- 
mitted to the membership of the Reformed 
church, through the rite of baptism, by 




S. J M. MCCARRELL. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1135 



Rev. Isaac Steiley. She was buried in the 
cemetery of St. Paul's (Bowman's) church, 
August 31, 1895. She was an estimable 
lady, a kind mother, and a faithful and 
loving wife ; she was loved and honored \>y 
all for her many virtues. The children of 
Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman are: William H., 
born in Washington township, February 26, 
1859, attended school there, and now man- 
ages the home farm ; Agnes Rebecca, born 
December 20, 1860, wife of Washington 
Sheetz, Wayne township ; Lucy Ellen, born 
December 20, 1862, at home ; Margaret E., 
born November 4, 1864, wife of William 
Dempsey, Wayne township ; John C, born 
May 19, 1867, went to Cass county, Ind., 
February, 1895, now a farm hand there; 
Charles D., born September 16, 1869, gradu- 
ate of Ada College, Ohio, school—teacher in 
Jefferson township ; Jacob T., born Novem- 
ber 9, 1872, at present teaching school in 
Wayne township ; he is a graduate of 
Berrysburg Seminary, and is now taking a 
special course in Franklin and Marshall 
College, Lancaster, Pa. ; Aaron M., born 
December 23, 1874, at home; Albert H., 
born August 16, 1876, went to Cass county, 
Ind., February, 1895, is a farm hand there. 
After their marriage Mr. Hoffman and 
his wife went to housekeeping on his 
father's farm ; they soon after purchased the 
farm, and in 1879 sold it and removed to 
Wayne township, and located in their pres- 
ent home. Mr. Hoffman has a farm of 
seventy-six acres under high cultivation. 
Since 1860 Mr. Hoffman has been a Repub- 
lican. He was for three years assessor, and 
school director for four years ; he has held 
several offices in Washington township. He 
is not a politician, and has never sought 
elevation to office. Mr. Hoffman is a mem- 
ber of the Reformed church. He is intelli- 
gent, a good talker, genial and sociable, and 
is highly esteemed. 



Hoover, Henry, was born in Lykens 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., in 1833 ; son 
of John and Margaret (Lebo) Hoover. His 
grandfather, Jacob Hoover, was a farmer. 
He was a man of large size. He settled in 
Lykens township, where he died nearly a 
hundred years old. His son, John Hoover, 
was born in Lykens township, and was a 
farmer and miller. He was twice married. 
By his first wife his children are : John, 
Elias, Josiah, Daniel, Henry, Thomas, Su- 
sanna, Polly, and Rebecca. He had no chil- 
70 



dren by his second wife, who preceded him 
to the grave. He died in Lykens Valley, 
aged seventy-two. He was a Democrat. 

Henry Hoover was educated in the schools 
of Lykens township and reared a farmer; he 
remained on the home farm until his mar- 
riage. He was married, in Lykens township, 
in 1859, to Miss Amanda Ricard, born in 
Lykens township. After his marriage he 
resided with his father seven years and then 
came to Wayne township, then Jefferson, 
and bought one hundred and eighteen acres 
of land, upon which he has since made sub- 
stantial improvements, and now has a good 
house and barn and all other needful or de- 
sirable structures. His children are : John 
H., farmer, Halifax township ; Tobias, now 
at home sick ; Priscilla, deceased ; Kate, wife 
of Aaron Riegle, Lebanon county,Pa.; Louisa, 
deceased ; Isaiah, deceased ; Emma J., Lean- 
der, Alfred and Amanda, all deceased; Rose 
Ann, wife of Charles Palmer ; Ida Rebecca ; 
Isabella, deceased ; Sadie Ellen. Mr. Hoover 
is a Democrat. He is a school director, hav- 
ing been elected in 1895. He is a member 
of the Reformed church. 



McLaughlin, Alexander, merchant and 
postmaster, Enterline, Pa., was born in Jef- 
ferson township, Dauphin county, Pa., Octo- 
ber 13, 1841 ; son of Archibald and Rebecca 
(Wells) McLaughlin. His grandfather, the 
elder Alexander McLaughlin, was born in 
Ireland in 1770, and came to the United 
States in 1788, landing at Philadelphia, Pa. 
Here he was married and resided for a num- 
ber of years, and then removed to Lancaster 
county, and later to Dauphin county, where 
he settled in Jefferson township, and re- 
mained there until his death in 1857. He 
was a farmer. His wife was Catherine Fitz- 
patrick, widow of Daniel Frazier. Their 
children were : Alexander, born 1807, died 
September 24, 1828 ; Catherine, married 
Archibald McMichaels, removed to Iowa 
about 1840, both died there ; Rosanna, mar- 
ried, first, Mr. McFarland ; they removed to 
Iowa, where he died, and she afterwards 
married a Mr. Colby. 

Alexander McLaughlin, father of Alex- 
ander (3), was a native of Lancaster county, 
Pa. He was a farmer, and was one of the 
first settlers in Jackson township, Dauphin 
county, where he died in October, 1888. 
His wife preceded him in death. Their 
children are: Samuel, died aged sixteen 
years ; Mary, deceased, wife of John Garner ; 



1136 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Hannah, died aged thirteen years ; Alexan- 
der. Mr. McLaughlin, the father, was a 
pleasing public speaker and took an active 
part in politics. 

Alexander McLaughlin (3) was educated 
in the common schools of his native place, 
and was reared a farmer boy. He remained 
and worked at home until he was nineteen 
years old. He then engaged to work as a 
farm hand at $9 per month for Amos Fisler, 
near Harrisburg. Mr. McLaughlin enlisted, 
September 4, 1861, at Camp Curtin, Harris- 
burg, for three years, as private in company 
A, Fiftieth Pennsylvania volunteers. After 
serving thirteen months he was transferred 
to battery E, Second United States artillery, 
in which he served twenty-three months, and 
was discharged at Washington, D. C, Sep- 
tember 5, 1864. The engagements in which 
he took part are : Pocalogo, N. O; the fight- 
ing along the Rappahannock, followed by 
the second Bull Run ; Chantilly, wherehe was 
slightly wounded in the left shoulder; South 
Mountain, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. 
In the spring of 1863 he was ordered to Lex- 
ington, Ky., whence his regiment proceeded 
South and took part in the siege of Vicks- 
burg, thence to Jackson, Miss., skirmishing 
all the way. From Jackson they moved to 
Cincinnati, Ohio, thence to Lexington, Ky.; 
the next battle was Cumberland Gap, fol- 
lowed by the siege of Knoxville, Tenn. Re- 
joined the Army of the Potomac in the 
spring of 1864, and with that army engaged 
in the battles of Spottsylvania, the Wilder- 
ness, Cold Harbor, Mine Run, then Peters- 
burg; thence they were ordered to Washing- 
ton, D. C, where Mr. McLaughlin received 
his discharge on account of the expiration of 
his term of service. He lay in the hospital 
at Cincinnati, Ohio, over six weeks with 
fever. After his discharge from the army 
Mr. McLaughlin returned home and went to 
work, assisting in building the Cove furnace 
in Perry county, Pa. 

In the spring of 1866 Mr. McLaughlin re- 
moved to Class counly, Ind.,but not liking the 
country, he returned to Dauphin county in 
the next fall, located in Jefferson township, 
and engaged in huckstering. After a few 
years at this business he removed to Will- 
iamstown and opened a restaurant, which he 
conducted one year. He then returned to 
Jefferson township and farmed for two years 
in connection with huckstering. In the 
spring of 1893 he purchased the John Enter- 



line stock of goods, at Enterline, Pa., and 
has conducted the business up to date. 

Mr. McLaughlin was married, in Jefferson 
township in the spring of 1866, to Miss 
Amanda Spade. Their children are: Ida 
Alice, widow of Mr. Snyder; Minnie F., 
died aged four years ; Robert B., miner at 
Tower City, Pa.; William E., deceased; Sam- 
uel C, deceased; John H, Harry E., and 
Curtin, all at home; Harvey 0., deceased. 

Mr. McLaughlin is a Democrat. He has 
been justice of the peace for five_years, con- 
stable four years, school director eight years 
and postmaster at Enterline since 1893. He 
is a member of Heilner Post, No. 232, G. 
A. R., at Lykens. Mr. Laughlin is of fine 
build and military bearing. He is a promi- 
nent and honored man. 



Hoffman, Christian, farmer, Wayne 
township, was born in Lykens township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., November 11, 1821 ; 
son of John B. and Barbara (Bowman) Hoff- 
man. Christian Hoffman, the grandfather, 
was a native of Lancaster county, and came 
with his parents when a boy to Lykens 
Valley, where he grew up on the farm. He 
married Susanna Diebler, and shortly after- 
wards moved to Halifax township, where he 
died about 1845. His children are : Ann 
Mary ; John Peas ; John B.; Daniel G.; 
Peter; Christian; Jonas; Philip; Simon; 
Susanna, married Philip Shutt; and Cathe- 
rine, married Jonathan Novinger. 

The father was born in Mifflin township, 
September 17, 1793. The mother was born 
in Halifax township, May 19, 1795. The 
father early learned the trade of a black- 
smith, and made the irons for Buchanan's 
forge, Carton's furnaces and forges in Clark's 
Valley, and also the irons for the Poor 
House mill. He came to Halifax township 
with his family about 1831, and bought a 
small farm, and also worked at his trade in a 
shop of his own. Later he removed to 
Powell's Valley, where he died April 30, 
1875, his wife having died October 12, 1860. 

Their children were : George, born January 
14, 1816, moved to Indiana, and died there ; 
John, born April 4, 1818, died in Wayne 
township; Susanna, born April 27, 1820, 
died aged four years ; Christian ; Margaret, 
born September 12, 1824, wife of Jonathan 
Spate, Jefferson township; Sarah Ann, born 
February 14, 1827, wife of Thomas Lebo, 
residing in Perry county, Pa.; Josiah, born 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1137 



May 10, 1829, died in Halifax township ; 
James, born February 25, 1831, farmer in 
Jackson township ; Peter Albright, born 
August 8, 1833, died in February, 1896, in 
Wayne township ; Lidian, born May 3, 
1839, died in Wayne township. Mr. Hoff- 
man served in the war of 1812. 

Christian received his education in the 
schools of Halifax township under his 
teacher, Daniel M. Minich. He was fourteen 
years old when his parents removed to Hali- 
fax township, where he was brought up on 
the farm. He and his brother John carried 
on the farm, while his older brother and 
his father worked in the shop. In 1844 he 
was married, in Jefferson township, to Miss 
Susanna Enterline, daughter of Peter Enter- 
line, a prominent man in the township at 
that time. They had twelve children, of 
whom the survivors are : Peter Franklin, 
farmer in Wayne township ; Hannah Mar- 
tha, wife of Romanius Zimmerman, residing 
in New Holland, Pa.; Thomas Jefferson, at 
home ; Samuel W., at home, married to 
Mary Hartman, and they have one child. 
Mr. Hoffman is a Democrat, and has served 
as assessor of the township one term, school 
director for several terms, and as supervisor of 
the township. He is a member of the Re- 
formed church, and has held many offices in 
that connection. In 1849 he bought ninety- 
six acres of land, mostly brush land and very 
little cleared, which is a part of his present 
place, and has since added seventy-four acres 
to the original purchase. He also owns an- 
other tract of one hundred and one acres. 



Lebo, William H., farmer, Wayne town- 
ship, was born in Mifflin township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., August 19, 1841 ; son of Joseph 
and Sarah (Shepley) Lebo. The father was 
born in Upper Paxton township. He was a 
shoemaker, and followed that occupation 
until 1849, when he came to Wayne, then 
Jefferson township, and bought fifty acres of 
land, to which he later added many more. 
He removed to Halifax township and oc- 
cupied a tract of twenty-two acres of land, on 
which he died in 1893, his'first wife having 
died in 1860. His second wife was Mary 
Shepley, by whom he had no children. The 
children by his first wife are: Elsie, resides 
in Nebraska; Elmira, died in 1859 ; William 
H; John, in Illinois; Samuel, deceased; 
Mary, in Harrisburg; Sarah, in Kansas; 
Charles P., in Illinois; Susan A., in Ne- 



braska ; Joseph, Wayne township, and three 
children who died young. 

William H. was eight years old when his 
parents removed to Wayne township, where 
he received a common school education. He 
.worked at home on the farm until he was 
eighteen years old, when he learned the trade 
of carpenter, and followed that occupation 
for twenty years or more, doing contract 
work at times. In 1864 he enlisted at Har- 
risburg in company A, Two Hundred and 
Tenth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, in 
which he served until the close of the war, 
and was discharged at Arlington Heights in 
June, 1865. He participated in the battles 
of Hatch's Run, Muddy Run, Gaines' Mills, 
Five Forks, and was present at Lee's sur- 
render. After his discharge from the army 
he resumed work at his trade, and followed 
that occupation until 1878, when he took up 
farming, and has been employed in agricul- 
tural pursuits since that date. He cultivates 
two farms, one of seventy-five acres and the 
other of eighty-one acres, both in Wayne 
township, and also owns twenty-six and a 
half acres of wood land. His first investment 
in land was the purchase in 1877 of the 
seventy-five acres which is his present home- 
stead. He had previously lived for some 
years at Fisherville, Pa. 

Mr. Lebo's first vote for President was 
cast for Abraham Lincoln, and he has since 
adhered to the Republican party. He was 
reared in the United Brethren church. He 
is a member of Post, No. 393, G. A. R. He 
was married, in Jefferson township, Novem- 
ber 4, 1869, to Miss Angeline Tobias, daugh- 
ter of Daniel W. and Mary Tobias. Their 
children are : Ellen Louisa, died aged seven- 
teen months ; Thomas Edwin, shoemaker, at 
Harrisburg, Pa.; Daniel Tobias, a private in 
the United States army, at Fort Adams, New- 
port, R. I.; Frank Lewis, farmer, Halifax 
township; Mary Alice and Harry Andrews, 
twins; Mary Alice, married A. C. Kop- 
penheffer, Halifax township; Edward Mor- 
ris, at home ; Bella Elsie, at home ; Katie K, 
died young; William Joseph, at home; 
James, died in infancy; Carrie Angie, at 
home ; Sadie Estella, at home ; Vergie Ann, 
died in infancy. 



Lebo, Joseph A., farmer, Wayne town- 
ship, was born in Jefferson, now Wayne, 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., April 23, 
1S53 ; son of Joseph and Sarah (Shepley) 
Lebo. A sketch of the parents appears else- 



1138 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



where in this volume. Joseph was educated 
in the schools of his native township, and 
worked at home with his father until he was 
seventeen years of age, when he went with 
his brother William H., at Fisherville, to learn 
the carpenter trade, with whom he remained, 
about two years and then went to Harris- 
burg, where he was employed about two 
months as clerk in the grocery and liquor 
store of J. T. Lynch. After this he returned 
and resumed work with his father, and re- 
mained with him until he was twenty-six 
years of age. 

On September 1, 1878, he was married, at 
Berrysburg, Pa., to Miss Sarah C. Hoffman, 
who was born in the house in which she now 
lives, February 21, 1857, and is a daughter 
of John and Mary Enterline Hoffman. After 
marriage they were located on the father's 
farm for three years, after which they occu- 
pied the Sawyer farm for six years and then 
located on the present farm and later bought 
the place at the death of Mrs. Lebo's father, 
and this has since been their home. He has 
one hundred and eighty-five acres of culti- 
vated land and one hundred and twenty- 
four acres of wood land. Their children are: 
J. Howard, Fred E., and Sarah Irene. In 
politics Mr. Lebo is a Republican on na- 
tional questions, but in local and minor mat- 
ters is a liberal. Since May, 1895, he has 
held the office of justice of the peace. In 
religious faith and fellowship he is a Lu- 
theran and is a deacon in the church. He 
is a member of the Order United American 
Mechanics. 



Nace, Enoch, farmer, Wayne township, 
was born in Jefferson township, now a part 
of Wayne township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
September 2, 1848; son of Joseph and De- 
lilah (Yeager) Nace. The father was born 
in Halifax township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
August 23, 1814. He was a farmer and fol- 
lowed that occupation till his death in the 
fall of 1891. In 1878 he removed with his 
family to the place now occupied by his son 
Enoch. His wife was born August 31, 1819. 
Their children are : Sarah A., born January 
25, 1840, died young ; Susan, born December 
24, 1840, wife of Samuel Gilbert, Lykens Val- 
ley ; Catherine, born in August, 1842, wife of 
Philip Lebo, residing in Washington State ; 
Elizabeth, born June 18, 1844, died aged four 
years ; Mary Jane, born February 2, 1846 ; 
John W., born October 25, 1847, died in in- 
fancy ; Enoch ; Sarah Frances, born June 



24, 1851, wife of Samuel Sweigard, Millers- 
burg, Pa.; John Benjamin, born April 25, 
1853. The father was prominent in town- 
ship offices and was a Republican. 

Enoch received a common school educa- 
tion in his native township and lived at 
home, working on the farm with his father. 
In 1885 he went to Carroll county, 111., where 
he was variously employed, working on the 
farm, in the tile mill, and tending saloon, 
until December, 1890, when he returned to 
his home, where he has since remained. He 
was first married to Miss Viola Arndt, by 
whom he had three children : Harry 0., 
Morna E., and Dorothy D. He was married, 
secondly, March 25, 1893, to Miss Sarah A. 
Bowerman, daughter of Levi and Elizabeth 
Bowerman, and they have one child, Merle 
Edward. In politics Mr. Nace is a strong 
Republican. He was reared in the United 
Brethren church but holds no membership 
in any denomination. 



Sheetz, Washington, farmer, Wayne 
township, was born on the old homestead in 
Wayne township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
June 15, 1846 ; son of William and Barbara 
(Zimmerman) Sheetz. The parents are re- 
ferred to in connection with the sketch of 
George Sheetz in another place in this 
volume. Washington was reared on the 
farm and attended the common schools of 
his township. He remained at home and 
worked on the farm until the fall of 1875. 
At this date he was married, in Wayne 
township, to Miss Mary E., daughter of John 
Hoffman, by whom he had two children: 
Sarah and Carmeata. His wife died in 
August, 1883, and is buried in the Bower- 
man church cemetery, in Wayne township. 

Mr. Sheetz was married again, September 
25, 1884, to Miss Agnes Hoffman, who was 
born in Washington township, December 
20, 1860, daughter of Cornelius and Mary 
Ann Hossinger, by whom he has three chil- 
dren : Charles Edgar, born November 25, 
1885 ; Mary J., born in May, 1887 ; Carrie 
Agnes, born August 22, 1893. Mr. Sheetz 
located on this homestead in 1875, and at 
the death of his father in 1879 he bought 
the place, consisting of one hundred and 
thirty-seven acres, which is almost all under 
cultivation and on which he has made 
many improvements. In his politics Mr. 
Sheetz is a Democrat, but has never sought 
any office. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1139 



Sheetz, Samuel, farmer, Wayne town- 
ship, was born in Wayne, then Jefferson 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., July 30, 
1836. He is a brother of George Sheetz, and 
his parentage and family are given in con- 
nection with the sketch of his brother in this 
volume. He attended the common schools 
and was reared a farmer boy, but can readily 
turn his hand to almost any kind of em- 
ployment. He was put to work quite young 
and has been an industrious and hard-work- 
ing man. He bought his present place be- 
fore his marriage and after that important 
event he located on the place and has made 
substantial improvements on the same. He 
was first married, near Harrisburg, April 8, 
1873, by Rev. Edward Doren, to Miss Mary 
E. Stephenson, born June 4, 1847, and died 
September 21, 1883, and by this marriage 
there is one child, Emma Blanch, at home. 
In his second marriage, which occurred in 
Halifax township in 1885, he was united to 
Miss Rebecca Hough, by whom he has three 
children : Harry Samuel, born in Wayne 
township; Sarah Ellen, born August 10, 
1887; Chester Alvin, born January 25,1896. 
In his political views Mr. Sheetz is a Demo- 
crat, while in religious faith and fellowship 
he is a Lutheran. 



Sheetz, George, farmer, Wayne town- 
ship, was born in Jefferson, now Wajaie 
township, September 15, 1832 ; son of Will- 
iam and Barbara (Zimmerman) Sheetz. The 
parents have twelve children : Josiah, Mary, 
George, Samuel, Washington, John Eliza- 
beth, Julia, Malinda, William, Margaret, 
deceased, and Emma. George was edu- 
cated in the common schools, was brought 
up on the farm and has always followed 
farming as his occupation. He was married, 
in Lykens Valley, in 1860, to Miss Margaret 
Snycler, who was born in Lykens Valley. 
Their children are : Annie, wife of Cedora 
Lebo, Wayne township ; Hannah, deceased, 
wife of Samuel Lebo ; Mary, wife of Jere- 
miah Riegle, Halifax township ; Amanda, 
wife of William Litzel, Wayne township. 

Mr. Sheetz remained at home and worked 
on the farm until his marriage, when he 
bought his present place of about one hun- 
dred and ten or one hundred and fifteen 
acres,' on which he has since built a fine 
residence, barns, outhouses, and has other- 
wise substantially improved the farm. In 
his politics he is a Democrat, but has never 
sought any political office. He is a member 



of the Lutheran church. Mr. Sheetz has 
made his own way in life and is a good type 
of the self-made man. He is well-known 
and highly esteemed and is liked by all. 

Etzweiler, Samuel, farmer, Wayne town- 
ship, was born in Jefferson township, Dau- 
phin county Pa., April 12, 1846; son of 
Jonathan and Mary (Hoover) Etzweiler. 
George, the grandfather, was a native of 
Germany ; came to America when a young 
man, and with his family settled in Snyder 
county, where he spent his life and is buried. 
He was scalped by the Indians on one of 
their attacks and incursions. 

Daniel, the grandfather, settled in Lykens 
Valley, Washington township, where he 
cultivated a large farm until his death, 
which occurred in the seven ty-sixth year of 
his age. He was a soldier in the war of 
1812. His wife was Christina Smith, by 
whom he reared eight sons and three daught- 
ers. Three of the sons, Daniel, Michael, and 
Elias, served in the Union army during the 
war of the Rebellion, and he also was a 
member of the Home Guards. Being at 
Millersburg on one occasion when a com- 
pany of Indians were exhibiting their mode 
of warfare, he became enraged at the mem- 
ory of what his father had suffered at the 
hands of Indian warriors, precipitated a 
fight with them and drove them out of 
town. 

The father was born in Washington town- 
ship, is a farmer by occupation, and now 
lives on a farm of one hundred and two 
acres in Wayne township. His children are : 
Samuel, Susan, Daniel, Elias, Catherine, 
George W., David H, John, and Ellen. In 
politics he has always been an ardent and 
active Democrat. 

Samuel was educated in a little log school 
house in his native place and was put to 
work in his boyhood, doing a man's work 
on the farm when he was thirteen years of 
age. He remained with his father on the 
farm until he was eighteen years of age, . 
when he enlisted, in 1865, at Harrisburg, 
in company D, One Hundred and First 
regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, and 
served until the close of the war. His regi- 
ment was stationed first at Norfolk, Va., 
and later at Roanoke Island, and was finally 
mustered out at Newberne, N. C, in July 
1865. After his discharge he came home 
and for some time was emploj-ed in build- 
ing post and rail fences, for which he re- 



1140 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



ceived fair compensation. Mr. Etzweiler 
was married, in June, 1867, in Middle Pax- 
ton township, to Catherine E. Mader, daugh- 
ter of John P. Mader. After his marriage 
he farmed on the shares in Middle Paxton, 
township for two years, and then bought his 
present place of one hundred and twenty- 
three acres in Wayne, then Jefferson, town- 
ship, on which he has made many improve- 
ments. His children are: John P., died 
aged fourteen years ; Mary Alice, at home, 
and Katie Ellen, at home. In his politics 
Mr. Etzweiler is a Democrat. He is at pres- 
ent tax collector and for three years has 
been elected constable, and has served several 
terms as supervisor. He is a member of 
Miller Post, G. A. R., at Fisherville. His 
religious fellowship is with the Reformed 
church, in which he was a deacon for eight 
years. 



WEST HANOVER TOWNSHIP. 



Rauch, John M., postmaster at Manada 
Hill, Pa.,was born in West Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., December 25, 1833. 
John Rauch, the father of John M., was born 
May 28, 1774. He was for many years an 
honored resident of West Hanover town- 
ship, and married Mary Miller. They had 
these children : Elizabeth, wife of Jonathan 
Kelchler, deceased ; Mary, widow of the late 
Martin Brenner; Rebecca, wife of Peter 
Krautzer ; John M., Samuel, and William. 
Mr. Rauch died July 25, 1851. 

John M. Rauch had only slender educa- 
tional advantages in his early life. He 
learned the trade of painting, and followed 
this occupation for about thirty-five years. 
He was also employed to some extent in 
carpentry and farming. In addition to his 
duties as postmaster he still devotes his spare 
moments to painting. In 1870 he was 
elected tax collector, and served in this capa- 
city one year. In 1884 he was elected super- 
visor and served one year. In 1889 he was 
elected school commissioner and efficiently 
performed the duties of the office for three 
vears. In 1891 he was appointed postmaster 
at Manada Hill. By his fidelity and his 
obliging disposition he has made himself a 
very popular official. He was married, in 
Dauphin county, December 29, 1859, to 
Catherine Brenzinger. They had these chil- 
dren : Curtin Ann ; Mary L., wife of Irwin 
Moyer, died June 3, 1882; William F.; 



John Henry ; Annie M., died July 9, 1880 ; 
Laura E.; Emma R., wife of Reily S. Cramer ; 
and Norman B. Mrs. Rauch died June 23, 
1883, aged forty-one years. 

Bellman, Samuel, was born in Berks 
county, Pa., June 30,1854. He is a son of 
the late Simon and Elizabeth (Brown) Bell- 
man. His parents had eight children : 
Mary, wife of Samuel Brandt ; Hannah, wife 
of Frank Hain; Samuel; Rebecca, wife of 
Charles Kenney ; Elizabeth, wife of Ezra 
Struhower; Daniel; Sarah, wife of Peter 
Hartman ; and David, who died in infancy. 
The parents of both Mr. and Mrs. Bellman 
were well known throughout Lebanon, Berks 
and Dauphin counties. Mr. Bellman, the 
father of Samuel, was born and reared in 
Berks county. 

Samuel Bellman had a common school 
education. He lived out as a farmer's boy, 
and thus learned the business which he car- 
ried on through life. He was married, in 
Lebanon county, Pa., September 3, 1876, to 
Miss Catherine, daughter of Solomon and 
Fannie (Keiter) Cassel. They have two 
children : Michael and Agnes. When Mr. 
Bellman moved to West Hanover township 
he began farming there, and in this vocation 
he is still engaged. He is a self made man, 
having early learned to depend upon his 
own efforts. He is esteemed by all his ac- 
quaintances. 

Kramer, John H., was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
on the old homestead where he now resides, 
June 11, 1837. He is a son of the late John 
and Catherine (Gerberich) Kramer. His 
pareuts were both residents of Dauphin 
county. Two of their children died in in- 
fancy, and Katie died aged fifteen. Their 
living children are: Josiah, George W., John 
H.. David, and Mary E., wife of George 
Knubb. The father died aged seventy-nine; 
the mother is still living and in good health 
at the age of eighty-two. 

John H. Kramer was educated in the pub- 
lic schools and in the St. Thomas Institute 
at Linglestown, Pa. He taught school for 
twelve consecutive years. At the end of this 
time failing health compelled him to aban- 
don teaching; he has since that time made 
farming his occupation. In 1869 he was 
elected school director for West Hanover 
township and served continuously and ac- 
ceptably for twelve years. He was also 



DAUPHIN COUNTY, 



1141 



elected tax collector, and served two terms. 
In 1886 he was elected township clerk, which 
office he still holds. He was married, in 
West Hanover township, October 13, 1859, 
to Miss Lizzie A., daughter of Samuel and 
Susan Hassel. Of their nine children eight 
are living : Ira W.; Calvin A.; John E.; 
Laura E., wife of Jacob Meyers ; Frances B., 
wife of Samuel Witmer; Samuel; Harvey 
F.; Katie G., wife of Jacob J. Eshenaur, and 
Susan M. The parents of Mrs. Kramer had 
ten children, of whom eight are living : 
Emanuel, Samuel, Susan, Wilhelmina, Liz- 
zie, Edward, Elias, Katie, Harriet, and 
Emma. Both families are worthy and 
highly respected. 



Demmy, David, was born in Dauphin 
county, Pa., August 4, 1840. He is a son of 
the late David and Catherine (Siler) Demmy. 
Christian Demmy, grandfather of David, was 
born in Lancaster county ; he removed to 
Dauphin county and was a farmer. He 
married Catherine Hoover, and they had 
eight children, five sons and three daugh- 
ters, and all lived to a ripe old age. David 
Demmy, Sr., was the youngest son of Chris- 
tian Demmy. He was born in Dauphin 
county, and he, too, was a farmer. He was 
twice married. His first wife, Catherine 
Siler, was the mother of David Demmy, Jr. 
His second wife was Polly Fox ; her chil- 
dren were: Johnson and John H. David 
Demmy, Sr., died at the age of sixty -three. 

David Demmy, Jr., took a partial course 
of study in the common schools ; but for the 
most part he is self-made, being indebted 
for his success to his own efforts. He learned 
farming in boyhood and it was his occupa- 
tion till he attained the age of twenty- 
eight years. He also learned carpentry, 
and worked at this trade for twelve years. 
In August, 1862, he enlisted for the nine 
months' service in company C, One Hun- 
dred and Twenty-seventh regiment, Penn- 
sylvania volunteers. He was honorably 
discharged on account of ill health, which 
obliged him to return home. He then took 
up agricultural work, and was occupied 
with his farm until within a few years. Not 
being strong enough for farming he has 
given up active employment. He was mar- 
ried, December 24, 1864, to Miss Lydia, 
daughter of Jacob and Lydia (Leob) Stahle. 
Their children are: Noah E.; William F.; 
Agnes ; Clara, wife of Grant S. Wagner, and 
two who died in infancy. Mr. Demmy is a 



Republican. In 1879 he was elected super- 
visor of West Hanover township, which po- 
sition he held for three years. He is a mem- 
ber of the Lutheran church. 

Jacob Stahle, father of Mrs. Demmy, was 
a native of Germany, born in 1804; he came 
to America at fourteen years of age. He 
was a farmer and shoemaker, and an hon- 
ored resident of Dauphin county for over 
seventy years. He died in East Hanover 
township, October 23, 1895. In 1829 he 
married Lydia Leob, a native of Dauphin 
county. They had ten children, of whom 
eight are living: John, residing in Palmyra, 
Pa.; Amanda, widow of the late Jeremiah 
Gastrock ; Louisa, wife of James Witman, of 
Swatara township ; Henry ; William ; Lydia ; 
Noah, and Sallie, wife of Josiah Lingle, of 
South Hanover township; 



Miller, Jacob F., justice of the peace, was 
born in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 14, 1834. He is a son 
of the late Jacob and Sarah (Fackler) Miller, 
both natives of Dauphin county, where they 
spent their lives. His father died at the age 
of seventy-one, and his mother at the age of 
sixty-two years. They had six children, of 
whom Jacob F. is the only one now living. 

Jacob F. Miller was brought up on the farm, 
and received the advantages of a common 
school education. For fifty years he has de- 
voted his attention and his efforts to agricul- 
tural pursuits. In 1869 he was elected a 
school director and filled the office for three 
years. He was assessor of the township for 
eight years. As a justice of the peace he 
has been honored by the citizens of the town- 
ship with an unusually long term of ser- 
vice. He was first elected in 1869, and was 
kept in office ten years. In 1884 he was 
again elected and has held the office continu- 
ously since that date. He is universally 
recognized as an able, faithful, and impartial 
officer. Mr. Miller was married, December 
8, 1853, to Caroline, daughter of the late John 
and Elizabeth (Strohin) Forney. They have 
had five children : Monroe, John J., Alfred 
J. S., Robert S., and Emma, wife of James M. 
Rauch. Monroe died December 5, 1854, and 
John J. August 21, 1869. Mr. Miller's politi- 
cal opinions are Republican. 

Mumma, John, was born in West Hanover 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., December 
26, 1827. He is a son of John and Catherine 
(Ormond) Mumma. His father was born in 



1142 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Lancaster county, and came to Dauphin 
county in 1825. He was twice married. 
His first wife was Catherine Ormond ; of 
their two children, John Mumma, Jr., is the 
only one living. The second wife was a Miss 
Weller, by whom he had six children, two of 
whom are living. The father died at the 
age of seventy-five. John Mumma obtained 
a common school education. In his boyhood 
he learned carpentry, which was his occupa- 
tion for about ten years. He then bought a 
farm in Fishing Creek Valley, which he has 
cultivated up to the present time. Mr. 
Mumma was married, May 27, 1856, to Sarah 
Flory, daughter of the late Henry and Susan 
(Look) Flory. Of their thirteen children, 
eleven are living : Harriet, wife of John Sei- 
bert; Isaiah; Emanuel; Susan, wife of 
Thomas Lingle; John H.; Elias; Priscilla, 
wife of John Hoover; David ; William ; Sarah, 
wife of William Rhoads, and Emma. 



Mumma, Isaiah, was born in Fishing 
Creek Valley, West Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., February 3, 1859. He is 
a son of John and Sarah (Flory) Mumma, a 
sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this 
volume. In his boyhood he had opportu- 
nity for securing an education in the public 
schools-. But he was a very industrious 
helper in farm work, and was in haste to be 
engaged in the actual business of life. He 
tried farm work until he was twenty years 
old, and then concluded it would be better to 
learn a trade. Accordingly, in 1880, he 
went to learn the business of a carpenter 
and continued in it for three years. He 
afterwards resumed farming. He was mar- 
ried, April 18, 1880, to Miss Mary, daughter 
of Thomas and Kate (Raver) Shellahamer. 
They have had three children, two of whom 
are living : Stella M. and Gilbert. Mr. 
Mumma is now managing one of his father's 
farms. He is a promising young farmer 
and esteemed by all who know him. 



Gaistwhite, Joseph, was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
April 9, 1830. He is a son of the late Henry 
and Christiana (Ricker) Gaistwhite. His 
father was born in Chester county, Pa. He 
served in the war of 1812. He was married, 
in Dauphin county, to Miss Ricker, a native 
of that county. They had twelve children : 
John R.; William; Joseph; Mary M., wife 
of John R. Lydic ; Michael ; Catherine, 
wife of Reuben Alleman ; Sallie, wife of 



Henry Chritchley ; Hannah, wife of Isaac 
Sellers ; David, Henry, Daniel, and Frank- 
lin. Seven of these are deceased. 

Joseph Gaistwhite obtained a common 
school education. After leaving school he 
learned shoemaking, and followed the trade 
for twenty-six years. In 1863 he began 
farming, and has carried on this business to 
the present time. In 1884 he was elected 
school director and served with acceptance 
for three years. He was married, October 11, 
1858, to Miss Levina, daughter of John 
Kelley. They have had twelve children : 
Sophia ; Kate, wife of Joseph Early ; twins, 
unnamed; Joseph Grant; Delia; George 
W.; John C; Frank M.; Emma, wife of 
Grant Runkle ; and David R. The father 
of Mrs. Gaistwhite died aged fifty-two, and 
her mother aged eighty-seven years. Both 
were residents of Dauphin county. 



Mountz, Adam, was born in Germany, 
January 26, 1836. He is a son of the late 
Leonard and Rosanna (Schanheitz) Mountz. 
A sketch of his father's life appears in 
another place in this volume. His parents 
had four children : Catherine, wife of Will- 
iam Pentcove, and of George Sluscher; Leon- 
ard ; Adam ; and Hannah, wife of Enoch 
Runkle. His father was a Republican, and 
a member of the Lutheran church. 

Adam Mountz Came to America with his 
mother in 1843. They landed in New 
York, spent a few days there, and then 
joined his father, who two years before had 
settled in West Hanover township, Dauphin 
county, Pa. He secured a fair education in 
the public schools. He worked out among 
the farmers, and in this way made a be- 
ginning in business for himself. In I860 
he was engaged in the car shops at Harris- 
burg, Pa. He was married, January 5, 
1861, to Miss Martha, daughter of Henry S. 
and Anna Staut. They have had three 
children, of whom C. Annie is the only one 
living. In 1862 Mr. Mountz and his brother 
bought a farm and began farming, and 
have continued in the business up to the 
present time. 



Mountz, Leonard, was born in Germany, 
September 25, 1832. He is a son of the late 
Leonard and Rosanna (Schanheitz) Mountz. 
His father was born in Germany in 1793, 
came to America in 1840, and settled in 
West Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa. His wife, also a native of Germany, fol- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1143 



lowed him two years later. He died in West 
Hanover at the age of sixty-five. He served 
seven years in the German army, and par- 
ticipated in the war with Napoleon. He re- 
ceived a severe wound in that service, the 
effects of which he carried to his grave. His 
wife died in West Hanover township, aged 
seveiuvy-nine years. 

Leonard Mountz came with his mother to 
America when he was ten years of age. They 
joined his father, who had settled in West 
Hanover two years before. He attended the 
public schools and received a fair education. 
His first employment was as a farm hand, 
and he has made farming his occupation. 
He was married, in 1859, to Miss Harriet, 
daughter of Henry and Anna (Staut) Stank 
They have seven children : Emma, wife of 
Solomon Buck ; John W.; Alice ; Daniel ; 
Libbie, wife of John Bolton ; Sadie, wife 
of Frank Wolfelsberger, and Hattie. Mr. 
Mountz was elected supervisor of West Han- 
over township, and served one year; then 
school director of the same township, and 
served five years; after which he was again 
elected supervisor. In 1863 he was drafted 
for three years' service in the United States 
army. His political views are Democratic. 
Mr. Mountz is a faithful member of the Lu- 
theran church. 



which he now occupies and cultivates. He 
was married, November 3, 1881, to Miss 
Adeline, daughter of John and Sarah (Wit- 
mer) Umberger. Mr. Allen is one of the 
successful and prosperous young farmers of 
the township, and is personally held in high 
esteem. 



Allen, John M., was born in West Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., July 3, 
1860. He is a son of the late William and 
Maria (Albright) Allen. His father.William 
Allen, was born in West Hanover township, 
in 1809, and was a farmer. His wife, Maria 
Albright, was born in the same township, in 
1826. They had five children, three of whom 
are living : William F.; Mary Jane, wife of 
John E. Hetrich ; and John M. In 1840 he 
was elected captain of a battalion of militia 
and served for twenty years. He taught for 
twenty years in the schools of West Hanover 
and Lower Paxton townships and filled vari- 
ous other public offices in Dauphin county. 
He was a Republican. He was a member of 
the Presbyterian, and his wife of the Lu- 
theran church. He died July 12, 1880, aged 
seventy-one, and she died in 1877, aged fifty- 
one years. 

John M. Allen received his education in 
the public schools. In early youth he 
learned carpentry, and followed that occu- 
pation for two years. In 1881 he bought 
the farm formerly owned by John Zeiter, 



Cassel, Elias, was born February 15, 
1830. He is a son of the late Henry and 
Eva (Backenstow) Cassel, both of Dauphin 
county, Pa. Mr. Henry Cassel was a farmer, 
and was married to Miss Eva Backenstow. 
They had five children : Lucy, who died aged 
thirty ; Harriet, wife of Henry Brennemau ; 
Eliza, wife of John E. Packer; Elias ; and 
Rebecca, wife of Henry Bittner. Mr. Cassel 
was elected supervisor of Susquehanna town- 
ship and served one year. He was a Repub- 
lican, and he and his wife were members of 
the Lutheran church. He died, in October, 
1857, aged sixty-one. His wife is also de- 
ceased. 

Elias Cassel received a public school edu- 
cation. He was his father's assistant on the 
farm until he was twenty-eight years old. 
He was married, October 18, 1855, to Miss 
Susan, daughter of Isaac and Susan (Levan) 
Biever. They had eight children : Sarah, 
wife of Calvin Cassel ; Michael ; Laura, wife 
of Jacob Landis ; Agnes, wife of D. A. 
Brightbill; Ervin, Francis, Rebecca, and 
Jacob. Mr. Cassel removed to his father's 
farm in 1861, and cultivated it one year. In 

1862 he bought the farm of his father in-law, 
Mr. Isaac Biever, on which he still resides. 
He was elected school director of West Han- 
over township and served three years. In 

1863 he was drafted for the three years' ser- 
vice in the United States army and furnished 
a substitute. Mr. and Mrs. Cassel are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church. 

Isaac L. and Mrs. (Levan) Biever, the 
parents of Mrs. Cassel, were both natives of 
Berks county, Pa. They removed to Leba- 
non county, Pa., about 1845, and later to 
Dauphin county, Pa. They settled near 
Jonestown, on the farm where Mr. Cassel 
lives. Their children were : Julia, Mary, 
Susan, Isaac, Daniel, John, William, and 
Amos. Of these two are now living : Susan; 
and Mary, widow of John Albright, of Pen- 
brook. Both parents were members of the 
Lutheran church, and were worthy people 
and good citizens. Mr. Biever was a Demo- 
crat. 



1144 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Crum, David, was born in Dauphin county, 
Pa., June 17, 1830. He is a son of the late 
David and Catherine (Cassel) Crum. Both 
were residents of Dauphin county, Lower 
Paxton township. His father died at the 
age of eighty-six years. Both parents were 
faithful members of the German Baptist 
church. 

David Crum received a common school 
education. At the age of eighteen he learned 
shoemaking and for fifteen years made this 
his occupation. After that time he engaged 
in farming. In 1863 he bought the farm of 
his father and cultivated it until 1884. At 
this time he retired from active work and 
bought the house of John Strock, where he 
how resides. In 1853 he was married to 
Miss Sarah, daughter of Jacob and Catherine 
(Shuey) Bolton. They had two children : 
Mary, wife of William Lingle, and Catherine, 
wife of Samuel Potteiger. Mr. Crum served 
as tax collector of West Hanover township 
for the year 1880. In 1883 he was appointed 
collector of State and county taxes. In his 
political views he is Republican. He is a 
faithful member of the Church of God. 



Dare, James M., was born in West Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa. He is 
a son of Joseph G. and Giliah (Reinhard) 
Dare, both natives of York county, Pa., who 
came to Dauphin county thirty years ago. 
His father was a farmer. He was elected 
supervisor for one year and held besides 
various other county offices. He was mar- 
ried to Miss Giliah A. Reinhard. They had 
nine children, eight of whom are living: 
George M.; Elizabeth J., wife of Michael 
Straw ; James M., Richard L., Erastus J., 
Joseph G., William H., and John. Mr. Jo- 
seph G. Dare's politics are Democratic. He 
is a member of the Church of God. James 
M. Dare received a common school educa- 
tion. He was engaged in farming until he 
was twenty-one years of age. In November, 
1888, he was married to Miss Christie M., 
daughter of Jeremiah and Savilla (Mar- 
berger) Forney. Their children are : Charles 
M., Minnie M, Gertrude M., Annie, and 
Sherman. In 1891 Mr. Dare bought the 
farm of the late Michael Stockey, which he 
has since that time been cultivating. His 
political views are Republican. He is a 
member of the Reformed church. 



Lingle, Thomas W., was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 29, 1859. He is a son of the late 
Benjamin and Rebecca (Forney) Lingle, na- 
tives of Dauphin county. Mr. Benjamin 
Lingle was born May 23, 1811. He was a 
weaver, and worked at that trade for many 
years; later in life he became a farmer. He 
was a Republican, and a faithful member of 
the Lutheran church. He was twice mar- 
ried. His first wife was Miss Staute, by 
whom he had three children : Richard; Per- 
cival ; and Lizzie, wife of Samuel Hummer ; 
all deceased. His second wife was Miss Re- 
becca Forney, born June 25, 1827. Their : 
children were six in number: Edward L.; 
Josiah T.; Thomas W.; John B.; Emma, 
wife of John McDonnel ; and Minnie C, 
wife of Levi Hetrich. Benjamin Lingle died 
March 9, 1872, aged sixty years. His wife 
is still living, aged sixty-nine. 

Thomas W. Lingle received but a limited 
education and is a self-made man. His suc- 
cess in life is principally due to his industry, 
energy and good sense. His early youth 
was spent upon the farm. At seventeen 
years of age he began as a blacksmith's ap-, 
prentice. He has worked at that trade up 
to the present time. By observation and by 
natural mechanical talent he was enabled to 
pick up a knowledge of carpentr}' and wagon 
making, and became a good workman in 
both those trades. He removed to Manada 
Hill, West Hanover township, and in March, 
1888, bought the residence formerly owned 
by Josiah Peffly, where he has since carried 
on his business. He was married, February 
19, 1879, to Miss Susanna, daughter of John 
and Sarah (Flory) Mumma. They have 
four children : Grant E., Minnie R., Sarah 
R., and John D. Mr. Lingle is a member of 
Roseville Council, P. 0. S. of A. His polit- 
ical views are Republican. He is a faithful 
member of the Lutheran church. His en- 
terprise and energy are recognized in busi- 
ness circles, and he enjoys the esteem and 
good wishes of his neighbors. 

Buck, Solomon J., was born in Lower 
Paxton township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
March 1, 1859. He is a son of Solomon and 
Sarah (Albright) Buck. The father, Solo- 
mon Buck, was born in Dauphin county. 
In his earlier life his occupation was farm- 
ing. He served as assessor of Lower Paxton 
township, and in 1890 was elected supervisor 
of the township. His wife, Sarah Albright,, 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1145 



was born 1821. They had eight children, 
of whom seven are living : Jane, wife of 
Samuel Knubb ; Mary, wife of Levi Tittle ; 
David, John H., Solomon J., Edward, and 
Sallie. He is a Democrat. He belongs to 
the Lutheran church. He is now seventy- 
two years of age. His wife died in 1875, 
aged fifty -two. 

Solomon J. Buck took a limited course in 
the public schools. He was engaged in 
farming for some years, and in 1882 went to 
Springfield, Ohio, and worked for one year 
in a foundry as a moulder. The next year 
he came back and worked at Penbrook for 
six months at plastering. He was married, 
May 17, 1883, to Miss Emma E., daughter of 
Leonard and Harriet (Staut) Mountz. They 
have one daughter, Hattie E. Since his 
marriage Mr. Buck has devoted his attention 
to farming. His political views are Demo- 
cratic. He is a member of the Lutheran 
church. 



Boeshoee, David H., was born in Union 
township, Lebanon county, Pa., October 11, 
1848. He is a son of the late Thomas and 
Leah (Shuck) Boeshore. John Boeshore, the 
great-grandfather of David H, was a native 
of Germany. He was a brewer. With two 
of his brothers he emigrated from Germany. 
While on the ocean one of the brothers, Au- 
gust, was drowned. On reaching this coun- 
ty the survivors were disposed of as laborers, 
according to the terms by which they had se- 
cured their passage. John brought $11 and 
William, the other brother, $17. William 
finally settled in Berks county, and John in 
Lebanon county, Pa. John married Cathe- 
rine Hoffman. He became a farmer and 
continued throughout his life in that voca- 
tion. He was a Republican and a member 
of the Reformed church. Jacob Boeshore, 
grandfather of David H, was married to 
Elizabeth Kohr. 

Thomas Boeshore, father of David H, was 
born in East Hanover township in 1805. His 
wife, Leah Shuck, was a native of the same 
township, born in 1811. In his boyhood he 
was employed in farming in Union township, 
Lebanon county. He learned coopering and 
made it his occupation for some years. His 
first wife was Miss Catherine Capenhaver. 
Two of their four children are living: Peter 
C. and Catherine M., wife of Daniel U. Ger- 
berich. Miss Leah Shuck was his second 
wife. They had nine children, six of whom 
are living : Mary, widow of Joseph Shuey ; 



Levi ; William H; Sarah, wife of William 
Maturnas, deceased ; David H, and Nathan- 
iel J. Thomas Boeshore died aged seventy- 
six ; his wife still survives and is sevent}'- 
nine years old. They were both members of 
the Reformed church. Mr. Boeshore is a Re- 
publican. 

David H. Boeshore made the most of his 
educational opportunities, which were limited. 
He attended the academy in Jonestown, Leb- 
anon county, Pa., when he was twelve years 
of age. He worked in his youth on the farm 
and in saw mills. He learned the carpen- 
ter's trade and worked at it for twelve years. 
He was married, in November, 1869, to Miss 
Emma, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth 
(Ganby) Porter. Four of their six children 
are living : Cora L., Katie M., Lillie S., and 
Harry D. Mr. Boeshore was for a time en- 
gaged in butchering and huckstering. In 
1862 he enlisted in the army as a teamster 
and served three months. He was on the field 
after the battle of Antietam and assisted in 
burying the dead. In 1873 he was appointed 
school tax collector of East Hanover township 
for one year; in 1891 he was chosen judge of 
elections for a term of two years. Mr. Boe- 
shore is a Republican. He is a member of 
the Methodist church. 



Schubauer, Jacob C, was born in Wur- 
temberg, Germany, February 14, 1857. He 
is a son of the late John and Catherine 
(Rabe) Schubauer. His grandparents were 
born and passed their lives in Germany. 
His grandfather was a grocer. His grand- 
mother died aged ninety-six. His parents 
were both natives of Germany. The father 
received a limited education in the German 
schools. At fourteen years of age he learned 
the blacksmith's trade, at which he worked 
while he remained in his native land. In 
1870 he came to America, lived one year in 
Lancaster county, and then removed to Dau- 
phin county, where he resided until his 
death. He was married to Misi Catherine 
Rabe. They had fifteen children, of whom 
five are living : Frederick William ; Rebecca, 
wife of William Rollen ; John H; Rachel, 
wife of Julius Haberstroh ; and Jacob C. 
Mr. Thomas Schubauer died in Harrisburg, 
Pa. His wife died aged eighty-one. 

Jacob C. Schubauer received a part of his 
education in Germany. In 1870, when he 
was thirteen years old, he came with his par- 
ents to America. He attended school in 
Dauphin county for one year. After leaving 



1146 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENOYCL OPEDIA 



school he went to Middletown, Pa. In 1871 
he began an apprenticeship of three years at 
shoemaking. He attended school during 
part of this time. After acquiring his trade 
he worked at it in Harrisburg as a journey- 
man for three years. He next went to York 
county, Pa., and worked there for one year; 
then again in Harrisburg for three months ; 
then three months more in West Hanover 
township. Returning to Harrisburg he was 
for five months employed by J. Simonetti 
as driver of a huckster team. He then set- 
tled down in West Hanover township, and 
opened a shop of his own. He has been en- 
gaged all the time since 1882 in shoemaking, 
and in conducting a grocery. He was mar- 
ried, February 3, 1882, to Miss Caroline TV, 
daughter of John and Sarah (Totting) 
Rhoads. They have one daughter, Katie J. 
In his political views he is Democratic. He 
is a member of the Lutheran church. ■ 



and Lavinia. Mr. Crum's politics are Re- 
publican. He is a member of the Baptist 
church. 



Crum, Daniel, was born in Lower Pax ton 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., March 6, 
1836. He is a son of David and Catherine 
(Cassel) Crum. David Crum was a native of 
Dauphin county. He was a weaver by trade, 
but was engaged in farming during his later 
years, and until he retired from active busi- 
ness. His wife, Miss Catherine Cassel, was 
the daughter of Emanuel Cassel, resident 
of Dauphin county. They had nine children, 
four of whom are living: Samuel, David, 
Daniel, and Catherine,, wife of John Bolton. 
Mr. Crum was a school director of Lower 
Paxton township for six years. He was a 
Republican. Both he and his wife died in 
Dauphin county ; they were members of the 
German Baptist church. 

Daniel Crum received a limited school 
education. At eighteen years of age he be- 
gan a two years' apprenticeship at black- 
smithing, and after learning the trade worked 
at it for fifteen years. In 1883 he abandoned 
the forge for the plough. He bought the 
farm formerly owned by George Fackler, 
which he has cultivated up to the present 
time. He was married, October 6, 1861, to 
his first wife, Miss Esther, daughter of John 
Shope. They had five children, of whom 
three survive: Catherine, wife of Jacob Shope; 
Annie, wife of Thomas Ervin, and Alice, 
wife of Elmer Staute. In his second mar- 
riage, December 28, 1877, Mr. Crum was 
united to Miss Harriet Eagle. They have had 
our children ; two are now living : Sadie 



Allen, William F., was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
February 5, 1850. He is a son of the late 
William and Maria (Albright) Allen. His 
father also was born in West Hanover town- 
ship, on March 7, 1809. In his youth he 
was engaged in agriculture. He had re- 
ceived an education, and taught school in 
Lower Paxton and in West Hanover town- 
ships for fifteen years. He was a director of 
the poor in Dauphin county for two years. 
He was married in 1848. His wife was a 
daughter of Henry and Christine (Walmer) 
Albright, and was born in Dauphin county, 
September 3, 1822. They had five children, 
of whom three are living: William F. ; 
Mary J., wife of John Hetrich ; and John M. 
Mr. Allen died August 13, 1880, in West 
Hanover township ; his wife died in 1873. 
He was a Presbyterian, and his wife a mem- 
ber of the Church of God. Mr. Allen's 
politics were Republican. 

William F. Allen received a common 
school education. In his youth he assisted 
his father on the old homestead farm. In 
1882 he bought the farm of his father, and 
has since occupied it. He is the fourth in 
the line of direct descent, all of the name 
of William Allen, to own and cultivate the 
farm on which he now resides. He has 
been twice married ; first, June 6, 1870, to 
Miss Kate, daughter of John and Mary 
(Bolton) Hetrich ; they had one son, Milton 
M. Mr. Allen was married, November 22, 
1874, to his second wife, Miss Lavina, 
daughter of Jared and Mary (Potteiger) 
Lutz. Their children are : William E. and 
Charles F. In 1883 Mr. Allen was elected 
school director of West Hanover township, 
and served three years. He was re-elected 
in 1889, and is still in office. 



Wolfersberger, Levi, was born in Derry 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., August 2, 
1846. He is a son of the late Jacob and 
Susan (Raser) Wolfersberger. Jacob Wolfers- 
berger was born in Lebanon county, Pa. 
He was a farmer and lived for twenty years 
on his own farm in Derry township. His 
wife was a daughter of Christian Raser and 
a native of Lebanon county. They had 
seven children, three of whom are living: 
Philip, Levi, and Lavinia, wife of Jacob 



■ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1147 



Walter. Mr. Wolfersberger died in Derry 
township aged sixty-six, and his wife died 
in the same township aged sixty-one years. 
The}' were both members of the Reformed 
church. Mr. Wolfersberger was a Repub- 
lican. 

Levi Wolfersberger obtained his education 
in the common schools of Derry township. 
After leaving school he was for seven years 
engaged in farming. From the year 1871, 
for six years, he was employed in making 
post fence. In 1877 he went upon the farm 
of Cyrus Gingerich, which he cultivated for 
four years. In 1882 he occupied one of 
Don Cameron's farms and removed in 1883 
to the farm of W. Raucli. in East Hanover 
township. After tilling that farm for three 
years he moved to West Hanover township, 
where he now resides. 

He was married, in November, 1871, to 
Miss Louisa, daughter of Harry and Rosanna 
(Shadle) McCurty. They have had seven 
children, six of whom are living: Christian; 
Frank ; Susan, wife of Milton Allen ; Harvey, 
Alice, and David. 



Hetrich, John E., was born in East Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., Janu- 
ary 12, 1850. He is a son of Levi and Jane 
(Early) Hetrich. His grandparents were 
both natives of Dauphin county, and lived 
to a great age ; his grandmother died aged 
ninety years. Levi Hetrich, father of John 
C, was also born in Dauphin county, and 
was for sixty years a farmer of West Han- 
over township. He was married to Miss 
Jane Early, a native of Dauphin county. 
Their twelve children are all living, and are : 
Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Ulrich ; Eckih ; 
Martha, wife of Jacob Clements ; Edward ; 
John E.; Mary A., wife of John Berry ; Val- 
entine ; Thomas; Levi; Sarah, wife of John 
McCormick; Hiram ; Malinda, wife of Simon 
Cassel. Mr. Levi Hetrich was a Republican. 
He and his wife were members of the Re- 
formed church. 

John E. Hetrich received a limited educa- 
tion. He learned shoemaking in his boy- 
hood, serving a two years' apprenticeship. 
After working at his trade for six months he 
abandoned it, and was for three years en- 
gaged in farming. He was married, Janu- 
ary 7, 1874, to Miss Jane, daughter of Will- 
iam and Maria (Albright) Allen. Their chil- 
dren are : Robert G., and Clara, wife of David 
Shope. In 1874 he removed on a farm, and 
occupied it for ten years. He also farmed 



in Lower Paxton township for five years, 
after which he removed to West Hanover 
township, Dauphin county. In 1882 he 
bought the farm of the late Samuel Witten, 
which he has since cultivated up to the 
present time. In 1894 he was elected tax 
collector of West Hanover township, which 
office he now holds. 



Kramer, George W., was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 25, 1836. He is a son of the late 
John and Catherine (Hoffman) Kramer, 
natives of Dauphin county. John Kramer 
was engaged in farming until seven years 
previous to his death, when he retired from 
active business. His wife was Catharine 
(Hoffman) Kramer. They had six children, 
three of whom are living : George W., John 
H, and Elizabeth, wife of George Knubb. 
Mr. John Kramer died aged eighty-nine. 
In his political views he was Republican. 
He was a member of the Church of God ; his 
wife belongs to the same church ; she still 
survives at the age of ninety years. George 
W. Kramer received his education in the 
public schools. From his youth he was en- 
gaged in farming. In 1861 he purchased a 
farm of his own, which he has cultivated for 
over thirty years. He was married, in 1860, 
to Miss Catherine, daughter of Michael 
Cassel. Of their ten children these are liv- 
ing : Aaron ; Kate, wife of John Brightbill; 
Annie, wife of John Stoner; Lizzie, wife of 
Edward Sherk ; Maggie, wife of Harry Bol- 
ton ; Caroline, and Cora. In 1862 Mr. Kramer 
was drafted for three years' service in the 
United States army. In 1885 he was elected 
supervisor of West Hanover township for a 
term of three years and in 1892 was again 
elected to the same office for two years. 



Brightbill, David W., was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
September 23, 1838. He is a son of the late 
Adam and Elizabeth (Lingle) Brightbill. 
Adam Brightbill was also born in West 
Hanover township in 1809. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools. He was engaged 
in farming until 1861, when he retired from 
business. He served as school director of 
West Hanover township for a number of 
years. He married Miss Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Paul Lingle, a native of Dauphin 
county. Five of their eight children ai'e 
living: Benjamin; Martha, wife of John 



1148 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Runkle ; David W.; Melinda, wife of Jacob 
Kauffman ; Adeline, wife of Philip Mover. 

David W. Brightbill received a limited 
education. In his youth he assisted upon 
his father's farm. He was married, March 
8, 1860, to Miss Mary J., daughter of John 
and Sidney (Heckert) Buck. They have had 
five children, of whom four are living : 
Lizzie, wife of Frank Hicks; John Adam, 
Joseph M., and Mary M. He bought the 
home farm of his father's estate in 1874. 
After having been a farmer for about fifty 
years, he retired in 1892, and moved to the 
residence he now occupies. He served effi- 
ciently and acceptably for three years as 
school director in West Hanover township. 
In 1895 he engaged in the shingle business, 
which is his present occupation. 

John Buck, father of Mrs. Brightbill, was 
born in Lower Paxton township, June 27, 
1811, and was a farmer. Beginning in 1825 
he carried the United States mail between 
Harrisburg and Hamburg for many years. 
He was married, December 26, 1836, to Miss 
Sidney Heckert, born in Lower Paxton town- 
ship, December 26, 1814. They had ten 
children, of whom these are living: Mary 
Jane; John J.; Lucy Alice, wife of Charles 
Green await ; Margaretta, wife of Joseph 
Early; Caroline H., wife of Jacob Snyder; 
Amos C, and George H. In his later years 
Mr. Buck was engaged in hotel keeping. 
He was for two years proprietor of the Pax- 
tonia Hotel ; he also had the Fairhill Hotel 
for ten years, after which he retired from 
business, and settled at Hummelstown, 
Pa., where he died June 10, 1882. He was 
Democratic in his political opinions. He 
and his wife were members of the Reformed 
church, and they are interred in Mt. Zion 
cemetery, Lower Paxton township. 

Mr. John Brightbill, son of D. W. Bright- 
bill, is engaged in the management of his 
father's farm. Mr. Joseph Brightbill, an- 
other son, taught school two years in Eliza- 
bethtown, and two years in West Hanover 
township, Dauphin county. Since 1890 
he has been a clerk in Sible's lumber and 
planing mill. He is known as a man of 
integrity and is universally esteemed. 



Buck, Solomon C, was born in West Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 21, 1844. He is a son of John and 
Sophia (Cassel) Buck. His grandfather, 
Christian Buck, was married, in 1808, to 



Rebecca Zarker. They had seven sons: 
John and Jacob, who were twins; David, 
Andrew, Christian, Daniel, and Solomon. 
Christian Buck died in Dauphin county. 
His wife died March 9, 1874, aged eighty- 
seven. 

John Buck, son of Christian and Rebecca 
(Zarker) Buck, and father of Solomon C, 
was born in Lower Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., March 13,1810. He spent 
his boyhood on the farm. At eighteen years 
of age he learned the miller's trade in a 
flouring mill, and was for seven years en- 
gaged in that occupation. He was then em- 
ployed in farming, until he was twenty-nine 
years old. He held various offices in West 
Hanover township, and was among its prom- 
inent and honored residents. Sophia Cassel, 
to whom he was married, January 27, 1837, 
was the daughter of John and Christina 
(Smith) Cassel, and was born in Swatara 
township, April 7, 1805. They had four 
children, of whom the only one now living 
is Solomon C. The father died in Sep- 
tember, 1891, aged eighty-one ; the mother 
died June 9, 1895, aged ninety years. They 
were both members of the Lutheran church. 

Solomon C. Buck received his education 
in the common schools. Working out among 
the farmers he was busily employed until he 
was of age. For one year, 1865, he attended 
bar for Mr. John Stemler in his hotel in 
Harrisburg. The next year he began farm- 
ing on his own account. He was married, 
February 17, 1870, to Miss Kate A., daugh- 
ter of Jacob and Mary (Keiffer) Jones. They 
have no children. In 1877 Mr. Buck bought 
the farm formerly owned by Samuel and 
Catherine Glossbrenner, at which place he 
now resides. In 1889 he was elected assessor 
of West Hanover township, served one term, 
was re-elected, and served a second term. 
For a term of three years he was auditor. 
In 1892 he was elected inspector for one year. 
He also held other offices. In 1885 he was 
appointed agent of fertilizer appraiser for J. 
B. Thomas, of Philadelphia, which position 
he now holds. Mr. Buck is Democratic in his 
political views. He is a member of the Lu- 
theran church. 

The grandfather of Mrs. Buck was born in 
England and came to America at the age of 
four years. Her grandmother was born in 
Dauphin county and was a daughter of John 
and Lizzie Keiffer. They had four children : 
John, Jacob, Daniel, and Catherine, all of 
whom died in West Hanover township. 



mmm 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1149 



Jacob Jones, the father of Mrs. Buck, was 
born in Dauphin county, Pa., May 15, 1825. 
Her mother was also a native of Dauphin 
county and was born March 26, 1828. 



Gassel, John B., was born in Swatara 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., June 5, 
1838. He is a son of George and Barbara 
(Horst) Cassel. George Cassel was born in 
Dauphin county, he was a farmer and an 
honored resident of West Hanover township. 
He held various offices, such as supervisor, 
etc. He was a Republican, and a member 
of the Lutheran church. His wife also was 
a native of Dauphin county ; she was a 
daughter of Michael Horst. Seven of their 
eight children are living: Augustus ; John 
B.; Ephraim ; Catherine, wife of Levi Bol- 
ton ; Absalom; George ; and Annie, wife of 
James McCord. His wife was a member of 
the Baptist church. 

John B. Cassel received a limited educa- 
tion and was employed upon his father's 
farm until he was twenty-four years old. 
He was married in September, 1861, to Miss 
Kate, daughter of Jacob and Catherine 
(Shuey) Bolton. They had six children ; 
five are living : Emma J., wife of Levi Ging- 
erich ; Kate Elizabeth, wife of Henry Cas- 
sel ; Annie, wife of Jacob R. Sherk ; George 
E., and John H. In 1862 Mr. Cassel re- 
moved to his father's farm and cultivated it 
for four years. In 1872 he bought of his 
father the farm where he has since resided. 
In 1862 he worked one year at carpentering 
but has since devoted his attention exclu- 
sively to farming. In 1873 he was elected 
supervisor of West Hanover township and 
served one year. He was elected school 
director of the same township and served 
three years. In 1892 he was again elected 
supervisor for two years. Mr. Cassel is a 
Republican. 



Bolton, Levi, was born in West Hanover 
township, Dauphin county, Pa., February 
22, 1838. He is a son of Jacob and Cathe- 
rine (Shuey) Bolton. Jacob Bolton was 
born in Lebanon county, Pa. He was a 
blacksmith, but was principally engaged in 
farming. He was married to Miss Cathe- 
rine Shuey. Of their seven children only 
three are living : Sarah, wife of David Crum ; 
Catherine, wife of John Cassel, and Levi. 
Jacob Bolton was a Republican. Both he 
and his wife were members of the Lutheran 
church. Both died on the old homestead, 



where their son Levi now resides. The 
father died in 1883, aged fifty-five, the 
mother died aged seventy-one years. Both 
are buried in the farm graveyard. 

Levi Bolton was educated in the public 
schools of Dauphin county. After leaving 
school he worked with his father on the farm 
until he was twenty-three years old. He 
was married, in October, 1861, to Miss Kate, 
daughter of George and Barbara (Horst) 
Cassel. They had three children : John H., 
George E., and Harvey M. Mr. Bolton was 
drafted in 1861 for the three years' service 
in the United States army, and paid $300 
substitute money. In 1887 he was elected 
tax collector of West Hanover township for 
one year. He served eleven years as school 
director, and in 1895 was elected to the 
same position for an additional term of three 
years. 



Bell, David B., was born in York county, 
Pa., March 30, 1827. He was a son of the 
late Peter and Sarah (Meyers) Bell. His 
grandfather was born in England, and his 
grandmother in York county. Peter Bell, 
his father, was also born in York county, 
Pa. He was educated in the public schools 
of his native counts . In his younger days 
he was engaged in farming in York county. 
He was married, in 1814, to Miss Sarah 
Meyers, a native of York county. They had 
sixteen children. Five of these are living: 
Anna, wife of Fred. Crumlich ; Rachel C., 
wife of John Ferry ; George W., Isaiah, and 
Lavinia J., wife of Israel Stine. Peter Bell 
died in June, 1844 ; his wife died at the age 
of seventy-five. He was a Republican, and 
a member of the Evangelical church. 

David D. Bell received a common school 
education. He was engaged in farming 
until he was eighteen. He then learned 
shoemaking, and worked at it for five years. 
After this he was for two years employed in 
broom making. Mr. Bell was married, De- 
cember 26, 1847, to Miss Rachel, daughter of 
George and Catherine (Strominger) Traver. 
Six of their nine children are living: Sarah 
J., wife of George Herman ; Adam H.; 
Amanda E., wife of Benjamin Waltz ; George 
T.; Monroe, and Edward K. From York 
county, where he was farming, Mr. Bell re- 
moved in 1868 to Dauphin county, and for 
six years occupied the farm of Dr. Coover. 
He then removed to West Hanover town- 
ship and worked the farm of Mr. A. Fackler 
for seventeen years. In 1891 he bought the 



1150 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



farm of the late D. Bolton, on which he re- 
sided at the time of his death. 

George Traver, the father of Mrs. Bell, 
was a native of York county. He worked 
for many years at shoeraaking, and was also 
engaged in farming. He married Miss 
Catherine Strom inger, daughter of Michael 
Strominger, of York county. They had 
ten children, of whom seven are living : 
Annie, wife of George Woods ; David ; 
Rachel, widow of David D. Bell ; Rebecca, 
wife of Joseph Hain ; Elizabeth, wife of 
William Downs ; George W., and Daniel. 
Mr. Traver died in 1878, aged eighty-eight 
years. His wife died in 1873. Both were 
members of the Church of God. 



Fackler, Adam, was born in West Han- 
over township, Dauphin county, Pa., De- 
cember 24, 1851. He is a son of George and 
Harriet (Fisher) Fackler. George Fackler 
was born in Lower Paxton township, Dau- 
phin county ; he was a farmer. His wife 
was also a native of Dauphin county, and 
was a daughter of John and Catherine 
Fisher. Mr. and Mrs. Fackler had twelve 
children, of whom ten are living: Adam; 
Catherine, wife of Bern hard Gastrock ; 
George W.; Daniel ; Mary E., wife of Jacob 
Ensminger ; Harriet, wife of Jacob Stouffer; 
Sarah, wife of a Mr. Hubbard ; David, 
Emma, and Hoyt. George Fackler was 
elected supervisor of West Hanover town- 
ship and served two terms. He also served 
one year as constable of the same township. 
For two years he was treasurer of the Dau- 
phin County Fire Insurance Company. In 
1880 he removed to Kansas. He has retired 
from business and he and his wife are lead- 
ing a quiet life. 

Adam Fackler spent his early life on the 
farm, and received the education usually ob- 
tained by farmers' boys in the public schools. 
He remained upon the farm until he was 
twenty-two. He was married, in Lower Pax- 
ton township, to Miss Amelia, daughter of 
Augustus and Mary (Ort) Gnstrock. They 
have one son, John A. Mr. Fackler moved 
on his father's farm in 1873, and in 1875 
purchased the place, and has resided on it 
ever since. He is a good, solid Republican, 
and a member of the Lutheran church. 

The parents of Mrs. Fackler were both 
born in Germany. They came to America 
in their youth and were engiged in farming. 
They had seven children, of whom three are 
living: Bernhard ; Amelia, Mrs. Fackler; 



and Samuel. Her father died at the age of 
seventy years ; her mother is still living, at 
the age of sixty-five. 

John A. Fackler, son of Adam Fackler, 
received his early education in the public 
schools. At the age of fifteen he attended 
the high school in Linglestown for one ses- 
sion. When he was sixteen years old he at- 
tended the Williamsport Business College, 
and was graduated from that institution at 
the end of a year, after which he learned 
short-hand writing. Then, being eighteen 
years old, he attended the Millersville State 
Normal School until 1895, after which he 
began teaching in the public school. He is 
regarded by all as a young man of probity 
and ability, whose future career is most 
promising. 

Rauch, James M., farmer, was born in 
West Hanover township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., February 17, 1849. He is a son of John 
and Elizabeth (Shupp) Rauch, both natives 
of Dauphin county, the former born in West 
Hanover township, died in Martinsburg, W. 
Va., the latter born in Susquehanna town- 
ship, is still living, and resides in Martins- 
burg. James M. Rauch grew up on the 
farm in West Hanover township. He ac- 
companied his parents when they removed 
to Martinsburg, W. Va., in 1866, and made 
his home with them for eight years. But a 
home and a farm in his native township had 
stronger attractions for him, and in 1874 lie 
gratified his desires by returning to West 
Hanover township. He procured the farm 
on which he now resides, and has found oc- 
cupation in cultivating it. He was married, 
Juue 19, 1880, to Miss Emma J. Miller, 
daughter of Esquire Jacob T. Miller. They 
have no children. Mr. Rauch is a" good solid 
Democrat. He is a member of the Reformed 
church. 



Brown, Samuel S., was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county, Pa., 
January 30, 1846. He is a son of the late 
John and Margaret (Snoddy) Brown. His 
great-grandmother was born in Germany. 
She came to America at eighteen years 
of age, and settled in Dauphin county, 
where she died. His grandparents were 
both natives of Dauphin county. John 
Brown, father of Samuel S., was born in 
West Hanover township, January 16, 1812. 
He was a carpenter, and followed that busi- 
ness for many years ; but later in life he 



asma 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1151 



began farming. He married Miss Margaret 
Snoddy, who was born in 1816, in West 
Hanover township. They had twelve chil- 
dren, of whom eleven are living : John ; 
Mary, wife of Amos Cassel ; William; Cal- 
vin ; Samuel S ; James ; Jacob ; Margaret, 
wife of Anthony Fetterman ; Sarah, wife 
of Isaac Boyer; Lydia, wife of Joshua 
Boeshore ; Gown ; and George. Mr. John 
Brown died in West Hanover township in 
1890, aged seventy-eight; his wife died in 
1881. Both were members of the Reformed 
church at Shellsville, Pa. 

Samuel S. Brown took only a partial 
course in the public schools. From the age 
of fourteen, for four j'ears, he was employed 
in farming. At eighteen he enlisted at 
Harrisburg in company B, Tenth regiment, 
United States infantry. His regiment was 
part of the Ninth army corps at Petersburg, 
Va. He served three years. In 1866-67 he 
served on the frontier, among the Indians. 
He was discharged from the service Febru- 
ary 16, 1867, when he returned home and 
engaged in farming. Mr. Brown was mar- 
ried, November 10, 1868, to Miss 'Elizabeth, 
daughter of Elias and Sarah (Kauch) Dill- 
man. They have had twelve children, of 
whom nine are living: Christian; Margaret, 
wife of Elmer Straw; John, Samuel, Elias, 
Sarah, Mary, Monroe, and Emma. In 1874 
Mr. Brown removed to Cornwall, Lebanon 
county, Pa., where he was employed in fill- 
ing a furnace. ' Later he returned to West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county. In 
1888 he was elected supervisor of Middle 
Paxton township. Since that year he has 
devoted his attention to farming. Mr. 
Brown is a Republican, and a member of 
Hoffman's church. 

Elias Dillman, the father of Mrs. Brown, 
was born in Schuylkill county, Pa. He re- 
moved to Cornwall, Lebanon county, and 
for eleven years was engaged in filling a 
furnace, after which he moved to Lancaster 
county, Pa., and thence to West Hanover 
township, Dauphin county, where he is still 
living, at the age of eightj'-one years. He 
married Sarah Kauch, a native of Schuyl- 
kill county ; they had six children, of whom 
the only ones now living are: John, and 
Elizabeth, wife of Samuel S. Brown. Mrs. 
Dillman died in 1892, aged seventy-eight. 



Cassell, David, was born in West Han- 
over township, Dauphin count}', Pa., July 1, 
1830. He is a son of the late Emanuel and 



Hannah (Urich) Cassell. His grandparents 
were natives of Pennsylvania. Emanuel 
Cassell, father of David Cassell, was born in 
Dauphin county, Pa. In his earlier life he 
was for many years engaged in farming and 
distilling. He was twice married. His first . 
wife was Miss Polly Urich, by whom he had 
one son, Daniel. His second wife was Miss 
Hannah Urich, a native of Dauphin count}'. 
They had eleven children, of whom nine 
are living: Daniel; David ; Catherine, wife 
of James Baker, deceased ; Elizabeth, John, 
Samuel, Emanuel, William, and Hannah. 
He died aged sixty-eight. He was a Re- 
publican and he and his wife were members 
of the Church of God. 

David Cassell was educated in the public 
schools. His youth was spent on the farm, 
where he remained until April, 1874. In 
this year he removed to Harrisburg and was 
engaged in the coal and lumber business 
for eleven years. After this he dealt in live 
stock for four years. From 1885 to 1890 
he traveled through the Western States, vis- 
iting Chicago, St. Louis and other important 
shipping points, and bought live stock for 
shipping to Eastern markets. In 1890 lie 
returned to his farm, where he now resides, 
and which he cultivates. He is a healthy 
old bachelor and a Republican. 

Smeltzer, David M., was born in West 
Hanover township, Dauphin county. Pa., 
January 8, 1845. He is a son of the late 
Peter and Rebecca (Miller) Smeltzer, both 
also natives of West Hanover township. Mrs. 
Smeltzer was a daughter of George and Mar- 
garet Miller. Peter Smeltzer was a farmer. 
They had nine children, of whom seven are 
living : George ; John ; Rebecca ; Sarah, wife 
of Jonathan Zeider ; William ; David M. ; 
and Rosanna, wife of Martin Hocker. Both 
parents died in West Hanover township, the 
mother on December 24, 18S4. 

David M. Smeltzer was educated in the 
schools of his native township. He is prac- 
tical lj' a self-made man. At seventeen years 
of age he went to learn the trade of miller in 
a flouring mill and was in this occupation 
for five years. In 1863 he eidisted for three 
months' service in the Union army, in com- 
pany E, Thirty-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania 
volunteers, after which he enlisted for one 
year in company I, Eighty-seventh regiment. 
He was in the war for three years. After 
this service was over he worked for three 
years at his trade. Beginning with 186S he 



71 



HH 



1152 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



was for three years employed in farming in 
South Hanover township, then four years in 
Lower Paxton township, then managed a 
farm in Susquehanna township for nine 
years; during the following two years he was 
farming in Lower Swatara township ; then 
again in Lower Paxton township for two 
years; then in Swatara township, where for 
six years he operated a dairy in connection 
with the farm, supplying customers in the 
city of Harrisburg. At the expiration of this 
period he removed to West Hanover town- 
ship and bought the farm of the late Joseph 
Lingle, which he now occupies and culti- 
vates. 

In August, 1863, Mr. Smeltzer married his 
first wife, Miss Margaret, daughter of Jacob 
and Catherine (McCord) Wolly. They had 
eight children, of whom five are living: 
Minnie, wife of George W. Miller; Robert; 
Samuel ; William ; and Annie, wife of Elmer 
Zeider. Mrs. Smeltzer's parents were natives 
of Dauphin county ; her father, Jacob Wolly, 
taught school in South Hanover township 
for many years. In January, 1878, Mr. 
Smeltzer married his second wife, Miss 
Amanda E. Page, daughter of Elias and 
Catherine (Zeider) Page, by whom he had 
two sons; the only one now living is John. 
The second Mrs. Smeltzer's father, Elias 
Page is a farmer; he resides in Harrisburg. 
On May 22, 1880, Mr. Smeltzer married his 
third wife, Miss Sarah J., daughter of Jere- 
miah and Hannah (Forney) Wirt. Of their 
six children five are living: Margaret J., 
Sadie J., Harry E., Charles L., and Leroy H. 
The parents of Mrs. Sarah Smeltzer were 
natives of Dauphin county. Her father was 
both carpenter and farmer. He died July 4, 
1872. Her mother died July 29, 1893, at the 
age of sixty-two. In 1887 Mr. Smeltzer was 
elected school director of Lower Paxton 
township and served two years. He is a 
good, solid Republican. He is a faithful 
member of the Church of God. 



Balsbaugh, Christian Hervey, author, 
was born in West Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county, Pa., April 16, 1831. He is a 
son of the late Peter and Elizabeth (Longe- 
necker) Balsbaugh. George Balsbaugh, the 
great-grandfather of Christian H, was born 
in Pfals, Germany. The family name origi- 
nated there, from a stream of water, Bach, 
running through Pfals. By a change of 
consonants it became Balsbaugh. The grand- 
father of Christian H. Balsbaugh was born 



at Spring Creek, near the old Derry church, 
in Derry township, Dauphin county ; his 
grandmother was born in Cumberland 
county, Pa, They resided on and cultivated 
the old homestead where Christian H. was 
born. The grandfather lived to within a 
few months of ninety-seven years of age. He 
was for many years a bishop. He was in 
perfect health, and could read without spec- 
tacles. He died without sickness. The grand- 
mother died in a similar manner, at the age 
of sixty-nine years. They are buried in the 
graveyard at the old homestead farm. 

Peter Balsbaugh, father of Christian H, 
was born in East Hanover township, Dau- 
phin county. He was a very temperate 
man ; he was a farmer. He married, on 
August 29, 1816, Miss Elizabeth, daughter of 
Abraham and Maria (Musser) Longenecker, 
who was born in Lancaster county. The}' 
had nine children, of whom four are living : 
Benjamin, Maria, Christian Hervey, and 
Samuel. He died November 21, 1871, aged 
seventy-nine. His wife died on New Year's 
eve, 1874, aged seventy-seven. Both were 
members of the German Baptist church, and 
both are buried at the West Hanover church 
above named. 

Christian Hervey Balsbaugh received the 
ordinal - }' public school education. As a 
youth he was not physically strong, but was 
vigorous in mind and robust in his spiritual 
nature. At nineteen years of age he began 
teaching school. Having to make his own 
way, he accomplished his end by teaching 
during the winter months and studying in 
the summer. He attended the Harrisburg 
Academy for one term in the summer of his 
nineteenth year. In 1851 he attended Penn- 
sylvania College, Gettysburg, Pa., for one 
term, and taught school during the winter. 
In 1852 he attended Freeland Seminary, in 
Montgomery county, Pa. He began the study 
of medicine in the autumn of 1852, and in 
the following year spent one term at the Ec- 
lectic College, Philadelphia. Here he was 
broken down by too arduous study and was 
obliged to return home, where he remained 
until the autumn of 1854; he then went to 
New York City, entered the Hygienic Col- 
lege and pursued a course of study until 
1860. This was a most important and profit- 
able period in his mental growth and de- 
velopment. He was under the instruction of 
some of the most talented, skillful, and emi- 
nent men of the day. The result was a broad, 
thorough and liberal education. 



4* 



. 



i£ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1153 



In 1860 he began contributing to the press 
and has published many able and notable 
articles on a wide range of subjects. In 1895 
" Glimpses of Jesus " or " Letters of C. H. 
Balsbaugh " was compiled by T. T. Myers. 
The book is having a ready sale and is elicit- 
ing testimonials of a most gratifying charac- 
ter. Mr. Balsbaugh is now a contributor to 
five magazines and carries on correspondence 
with eminent people around the globe. He 
administers to the relief of the afflicted as op- 
portunity and ability permits. He is a prac- 
tical Christian and a firm believer in the 
harmony between nature and revelation. To 
assert this harmony and demonstrate it has 
been a favorite employment of his facile and 
able pen for thirty years. He still pursues 
his investigations, but confines his study 
mostly to physical matters. He studies his- 
tory, science, and philosophy only so far as 
they illustrate the higher life. 

He was first married, April 15, 1878. to 
Miss Harriet, daughter of Peter and Caroline 
Gipe. They had no children. Mrs. Bals- 
baugh died January 8, 1887, aged forty-five. 
His second marriage, May 1, 1890, was with 
Miss Harriet, daughter of Dr. Elisha and 
Anna Mary (Mackey) Shelly, who before her 
marriage had been a teacher. 



Cassel, Christian, farmer and justice of 
the peace, was born February 10, 1831, in 
Derry township, Dauphin county, Pa.; son 
of Michael and Leah (Mumma) Cassel. His 
father was born in Middle Paxton township 
and is a son of John Cassel, who was a na- 
tive of Pennsylvania and located at Middle- 
town, this county, about the year 1815, where 
he became a miller for George Fry, and was 
subsequently appointed agent to manage 
Mr. Fry's vast estate. Here John Cassel died. 
He was the father of eleven children : Fred- 
erick, Michael, John, George, Katharine, 
Jane, Sarah, Sophia, Lena, Elizabeth, and 
Barbara. The mother of these children was 
Magdalene Smith before her marriage to 
John Cassel. She and her husband were 
members of the Lutheran church, and Mr. 
Cassel was a Whig in his political views. 

Michael Cassel married Leah Mumma and 
followed farming mostly in Derry and Swa- 
tara townships, and died in West Hanover 
on the farm now owned by his son, Christian 
Cassel. The only child born to Michael and 
Leah (Mumma) Cassel was Christian C. 
After the death of his first wife Michael was 



married to Catharine Gingrich, by whom he 
had two children: Ann M. and Catharine. 

Christian C. was educated in the public 
schools and at Middletown and was brought 
up at farm labor. He married Catharine 
Runyan, daughter of George and Mary 
(Wilt) Runyan, and they had eight children: 
Calvin, George R., Michael M., Edward D., 
John C, Emma J., Mazie E., and Katie E. 
Mr. Cassel is a director of the Hummelstown 
National Bank, one of the managers of the 
creamery at Union Deposit, and director and 
treasurer of the Dauphin County Mutual 
Fire Insurance Company since January 1, 
1883. He has served as school director, and 
supervisor and auditor of his township. He 
was elected a justice of the peace in 1875, 
and has filled that cffice ever since with 
much credit and ability. He has been a 
member of the Lutheran church from early 
manhood. In his political views he is a 
staunch Republican. 



Ingram, Samuel D., was born in Chester 
county, Pa., November 9, 1811. He was the 
son of Dr. John and Lydia (Delaplaine) In- 
gram. His father died when he was six 
years old. From that time, with his sister 
Eliza, he was trained and educated in the 
home of his aunt, his father's sister, the wife 
of Jonathan Ganse, then a prominent teacher 
and at that time and for many years the 
principal of West Chester Academy and 
Boarding School. In the eighteenth year 
of his age Mr. Ingrain went to Sandsbury- 
ville and was the teacher of the county 
school there. In 1837 he was elected teacher 
of the girls' grammar school, in which posi- 
tion he continued until he was elected the 
first superintendent of the public schools of 
Harrisburg and of Dauphin count}', which 
office he held continuously for fifteen years. 
Subsequently he taught in the public schools 
of this city, and for twenty-seven years con- 
ducted a private school under his own di- 
rect supervision. He was married, January 
1, 1843, to Malvina F., youngest daughter of 
John and Mary (Schock) Geiger. To them 
was born one son, who was city editor of the 
Harrisburg Telegram, and who died October 
8, 1877. Mr. Ingram was quiet and unas- 
suming in manner, but firm in his convic- 
tions of right and sense of duty, unobtrusive 
and retiring, his influence for the good and 
true was felt in the community and acknowl- 
edged by the esteem in which he was held. 
He was more than an example in this re- 



1154 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



gard, he was a factor as well. Elected super- 
intendent of schools for the city and county 
when the establishment of the office was op- 
posed, and the office itself held in positive 
disrespect by those who should have better 
appreciated its bearing, but conscious of the 
necessity of elevating the standard of in- 
struction, Mr. Ingram, at great personal 
sacrifice, assumed the duties of the office. 
He labored long and faithfully in condi- 
tions which would have discouraged any 
one actuated by an impulse of personal 
gain only, but moved by a sense of duty to 
his profession and his high sense of respon- 
sibility to do with his might what his hand 
found to do, he persevered with a result 
which was to him its own reward, and to 
the cause to which his service was rendered 
of unmeasured value. Mr. Ingram was an 
enthusiast in his profession, and was not 
only an educator, but was an influential 
citizen. He was at one time a member of 
the city council and for years a member of 
the board of control. He was prominent 
in many of the humane and social organiza- 
tions of the city. He was an earnest mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian church. Always a 
good citizen and lover of his country, Mr. 
Ingram cared little or nothing for empty 
fame. His ambition was to do good, to 
benefit his fellows and to make the world 
better for having lived. He died June 30, 
1894. He was prominent in Masonic circles, 
being at the date of his death the oldest 
member of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, and 
one of the charter members of Pilgrim Com- 
mandery, No. 11, K. T. 

Gastrock, Barnhard, Linglestown, was 
born in Susquehanna township, Dauphin 
county, Pa., December 19, 1850 ; son of Au- 
gustus and Mary (Orth) Gastrock. The par- 
ents were both natives of Germany. The 
father came to this country when he was 
nineteen years of age, having been employed 
in a hotel, and after his settlement here be- 
came a farmer. The mother came one year 
later. They had a family of five children, 
three of whom are living: Barnhard, Amelia, 
and Samuel, of Boston, Mass. Thefatherdied 
August 20, 1873, aged seventy-four years. 
In his politics he was a Democrat. His family 
were members of the Lutheran church. 
Barnhard was reared on the farm and ac- 
quired only a limited education. He was 
married, September 25, 1872, to Miss Cathe- 
rine Fackler, daughter of George and Har- 



riet (Fisher) Fackler. Their children are " 
Elizabeth, Mary Ellen, Barnhard, and Will- 
iam. In 1873 Mr. Gastrock engaged in 
farming for himself on the farm of George 
Fackler, which he cultivated for two years. 
In 1875 he bought the farm lately owned by 
Thomas Finney, which he has occupied since 
that time. In 1890 he was elected super- 
visor of West Hanover and served in the 
office three years. In his political views he 
is a Republican, and in 1894 was a delegate 
to the county convention of his party, and 
the year following represented the township 
in the Republican State Convention. He 
and his family are members of the Lutheran 
church. 



Rauch, Samuel J., farmer, West Hanover 
township, was born March 14, 1844 ; son of 
John and Elizabeth (Shoop) Rauch. The 
parents were both natives of Dauphin 
county, the father of East Hanover and the 
mother of Lower Paxton township. They 
were fanners and reared a family of six chil- 
dren : Mary J., Eliza A., Samuel J., John 
W. and Edward, twins, and James M. The 
father was a farmer and dairyman. He died 
at the age of fifty-eight years, and his wife 
survives and resides at Martinsburg, Va. 
The grandparents were both natives of Dau- 
phin county and were farmers, and both 
died in Dauphin county. 

Samuel J. received his primary education 
in the public schools of West Hanover town- 
ship, and also attended private schools for 
two sessions. He was then engaged in teach- 
ing for three successive winters, and working 
on the farm in the summers. He also was 
agent of the Buckeye Company in selling 
agricultural machinery, and held this posi- 
tion three years. He was also in the retail 
grocery business for a number of years. He 
was married, November 12, 1875, to Miss 
Louisa Deitweiler, daughter of Michael and 
Barbara (Thomas) Deitweiler. Their chil- 
dren are : Lizzie S., Jennie A., Florence D., 
Mary L., Carrie T., and Maggie V. After his 
marriage he was engaged in selling agricul- 
tural machinery for fipe years. He then 
bought the home farm of his father's estate, 
on which he has since been extensively en- 
gaged in farming and stock raising. In his 
political views he is a Democrat, and has 
served as school director, supervisor, auditor 
and inspector of elections. In religious faith 
he is with the Reformed church and is a 
member of that denomination. 



Michael 
Rauch, *■ 
was a ' 
ThoiiT- 
Carol 
Sam' 
E> 
I 



log 

two 

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w. 

ye' 

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iruggist, 

Horatio, 

infancy. 

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odge, 

ind 



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in 

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edu- 

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i 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1159 



course in less than four years, and was grad- 
uated from college in the class of 1891 with 
the first honors of the class, being the first 
student east of the Allegheny mountains to 
take the honors of Waynesburg College. 

For two years Mr. Bufflngton studied law 
in the office of J. C. McAlarney, and was 
admitted to the Dauphin county bar in 1893 
at Harrisburg. He at once opened a law 
office in Lykens, and succeeded in building 
up an extensive practice in Dauphin and 
adjoining counties. His politics are Repub- 
lican. He takes an active interest in the 
P. 0. S. of A., and composed a funeral ode 
for the order. 

H. E. Bufflngton, though a young man, 
was engaged as the leading counsel for the 
defense in the celebrated Zeiders murder 
trial, March 9, 1896, at Pottsville. The trial 
came to a sudden termination in one day by 
the peculiarly shrewd and keenly penetrat- 
ing cross-examination of the young practi- 
tioner. Frank Adams, Isaac Bendigo, and 
Charles Bendigo, of Reiner City, Schuylkill 
county, were indicted for the murder of Ben- 
jamin Zeiders, an aged huckster, from Perry 
county, who, on Christmas night of 1895, 
had his skull crushed in by a huge stone 
shortly after a quarrel. Zeiders lingered un- 
conscious for eight days and died without 
recovering consciousness, considerable pus 
having formed on the brain beneath the 
wound. A post mortem examination also 
revealed marked symptoms of pneumonia, 
three-fourths of one lung being inflamed. 
Young Bufflngton " took the cue," and by a 
long and extensive research on the diseases 
of the brain and lungs, framed an elaborate 
and ingenious defense. The Commonwealth 
trustingly relied on the testimony of three 
local physicians to prove the corpus delicto. 
The first unsuspecting physician gave dam- 
aging testimony on direct examination. But 
Buffington met him with such a hot fire of 
technical cross-examination and medical au- 
thorities as to completely break up the Com- 
monwealth's case and to establish the theory 
of the defense. The two other expert wit- 
nesses of the Commonwealth followed the 
defendant's pneumonia theory and a verdict 
of " Not guilty " was rendered without the 
jury's leaving the box. Frank Adams, how- 
ever, was detained on the same indictment, 
and a verdict of simple assault and battery 
was rendered against him. The defendant 
was admitted to bail, and the case appealed 
to the Superior Court, before which Mr. Buf- 



flngton made the chief argument. Mr. W. 
J. Whitehouse was associate counsel. A de- 
cision has not yet been rendered. 

Harry E. Buffington was married, at Tower 
City, June 17, 1896, to Miss Elizabeth A., 
daughter of Dr. R. B. and Annie (Mathias) 
Wilson, of Tower City. Mr. Buffington is a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal church. 

The career of Mr. Buffington shows how 
a young man with noble aspirations can win 
his way through all difficulties to an honor- 
able position and qualify himself for influ- 
ence and usefulness. 

The family name is English. The first 
English child born in Pennsylvania was a 
Buffington. George Buffington, great-grand- 
father of Harry E., was born in Chester 
county, Pa., in February, 1759, and was a 
son of Benjamin Buffington, also a native of 
the State. In 1783 George Buffington mar- 
ried Barbara Hoffman, and had eleven chil- 
dren ; the fifth of these was George Buffing- 
ton, Jr., grandfather of Harry E. The par- 
ents, George and Barbara (Hoffman) Buf- 
fington, both died in Pennsylvania. 

George Buffington, Jr., was born May 10, 
1795, in Lykens Valley. He was a miller, 
and lost his mill, which cost him $7,000, by 
a cyclone which passed over the valley in 
1855. He married Catherine Yeager, of 
German descent, born in Lykens Valley. 
Their children were twelve in number; they 
were : Cyrus, born December 30, 1821 ; 
Amanda, May 28, 1824, is deceased ; Elias, 
December 23, 1825 ; John G., born January 
31, 1828, died July 27, 1884; Henrietta, 
born September 9, 1830, died May 22, 1832 ; 
George W., born December 23, 1832, died 
January 26, 1871 ; Catherine, born Novem- 
ber 3," 1834; Elizabeth, born December 
3, 1836; Leah, born December 23, 1838; 
Jeremiah, born November 23, 1840, died 
November 14, 1843; Peter, born April 11, 
1843, died at the age of seventeen ; Aaron, 
born about 1846, died aged eighteen. The 
father died in Lykens Valley. He was a 
Whig, and a member of the Reformed 
church. 

His sixth child, George W. Buffington, 
was the father of Harry E., and was born in 
Lykens Valley. He was a distiller and a 
contractor for hauling logs and timber to 
the mines. His wife, Susanna, was the 
daughter of Lewis Lenker, farmer, of Dau- 
phin county. Their children are: Harvey 
C, who died young ; Charles F., who resides 
in Colorado ; Benjamin F., tailor, residing 



1160 



BIO GRA PHI GAL ENGYGL OPEDIA 



in Indiana ; and Harry E. Mr. Burlington 
was a Republican, and was a member of the 
Reformed church. 



Thompson, Alexander F., ex-senator and 
attorney-at-law, was born at Pottsville, 
Schuylkill county, Pa., December 7, 1845. 
He is a son of the late Alexander and Isa- 
bella (Pennman) Thompson, both paternal 
and maternal sides of the family being of 
Scottish ancestry. The father, Alexander 
Thompson, was born in Dalkeith, Scotland, 
in 1808, and spent the first twenty years of 
his life in his native land. In 1828 he emi- 
grated to America, accompanied by his 
brother George, by James and Robert Penn- 
man, and by Isabella Pennman, who after- 
wards became his wife, and her sister. Land- 
ing at New York, they at once proceeded to 
Schuylkill county, Pa., and settled where the 
city of Pottsville now stands. Here Mr. 
Thompson began prospecting for coal, and 
shortly after, in connection with James and 
Robert Pennman, engaged in coal mining, 
which he carried on for the ensuing four or 
five years. At the end of that time he be- 
came superintendent of the mines of Potts 
& Co., and subsequently furnished timber 
to different mining firms in that section. 
In 1857 Mr. Thompson removed to Porter 
township, Schuylkill county, and engaged 
in flour milling, lumber manufacturing and 
agricultural pursuits, giving eight years to 
these occupations. From 1865 until 1871 
he did contract work in the mines of Will- 
iam stown, and from 1871 until the date of 
his death, which occurred in December, 
1873, he lived a retired life. 

Alexander Thompson and Isabella Penn- 
man were married at Pottsville. They had 
nine, children : Robert, who died in child-, 
hood; David P., who resides in Illinois; 
William W., who died at Frederick, Md., 
while serving in defense of his country in 
1862; Elizabeth, wife of Hiram Kimmel, 
who died at Carver Hospital, Washington, 
D. C, while acting in the capacity of a nurse ; 
.Jennie, wife of Benneville Houtz, residing in 
Tower City, Pa.; Alexander F.; Robert B., a 
miner, residing in Tower City; Isabella, 
wife of George Paul, of Tower City, and 
James C, residing in Rejmoldsville, Pa. 
Mrs. Isabella Thompson died in Pottsville 
in 1852. 

Alexander Thompson was again married, 
in Pottsville, to Mary Bast, of that city. To 
this second union eleven children were born : 



Isaac, residing in Tower City, Pa.; George> 
residing in Alaska; John, residing in Tower 
City ; Andrew, of Shamokin, Pa.; Abraham, 
of Tower City ; Charles, who was killed in 
the mines at Tower City ; Mary, wife of 
George Stout ; Winfield, William, Elmer, 
and Rebecca, all residing in Tower City, Pa. 
Their mother, Mrs. Mary Thompson, sur- 
vives her husband, and resides on the home- 
stead at Tower City. Mr. Thompson was a 
Republican and a consistent member of the 
Presbyterian church. 

Alexander F. Thompson attended school 
for a month in Pottsville. When he was 
eleven years old his parents removed to 
Porter township, where he went for a few 
months to the district school. At the age of 
twelve he was engaged in the winter in driv- 
ing a four-horse team hauling logs to the 
mill, and in summer in working on the farm. 
He was employed thus for two years ; the 
two following years he spent in the grist mill 
of his father. 

In 1862, at seventeen years of age, he en- 
listed at Pottsville in company B, One Hun- 
dred and Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania vol- 
unteers, under Col. J. K. Frick and Capt. 
William Wrenn, for nine months. He was 
mustered in at Harrisburg, then proceeded 
with his regiment to Washington, D. C, 
where they joined the Army of the Potomac, 
in Virginia. Mr. Thompson completed his 
term of service in May, 1363, and returned 
to Tower City, where he worked in the mines 
until June 30 of the same year, and then re- 
enlisted in company E, Thirty-ninth State 
militia, under Captain Mull and Colonel 
Campbell. He spent six weeks at Cham- 
bersburg and Greencastle, Pa., was dis- 
charged at Harrisburg in August, 1863, and 
returned for a time to his old occupation of 
mining. He enlisted for the third time, 
January 20, 1864, in company G, Seventh 
Pennsylvania cavalry, Capt. William Wrenn 
and Captains McCormick and Hinkson. He 
joined his regiment at Nashville, Tenn., and 
went with them through the Atlanta cam- 
paign, and during this term of service had 
two horses shot from under him, one at 
Rome, Ga., and one at Lovejoy Station. He 
was finally mustered out of the service, Au- 
gust 23, 1865, returned to Tower City, and 
for four years following worked in the 
mines, during which time he saved enough 
money to carry him through four terms at 
the Freeburg Academy. After this he again 
went back to Tower Citv and worked in the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1161 



mines until 1872. Then for two and a half 
years he was a partner in the firm of Snyder 
& Thompson, in the general mercantile busi- 
ness, at Lykens. At the end of that time he 
sold his interest in the business and became 
a law student with C. W. Raber at Lykens, 
and Hon. A. J. Herr at Harrisburg. He 
was admitted to the bar in 1877, and opened 
an office at Lykens the same year, where he 
has ever since practiced. Mr. Thompson 
has built up an extensive and lucrative busi- 
ness in Dauphin and adjoining counties and 
in the higher State courts, he being a mem- 
ber of the bar of the Supreme Court. 

Mr. Thompson is a Republican and has 
been active and prominent in his party. He 
was elected to the Pennsylvania House of 
Representatives in November, 1880, and re- 
elected in November, 1882, and served four 
years in the House with honor to himself 
and satisfaction to his constituents. He was 
subsequently elected to the State Senate in 
November, 1884, and re-elected for a second 
term in November, 1888. He served eight 
years, during which he was member of 
many important committees. He was chair- 
man of mining and mines committees dur- 
ing his whole term of service, and during 
his entire service in the Legislature was 
member of the judiciary general committee. 
He was prominent in legislative bodies by 
reason of his eminent abilities as a speaker 
and debater, always commanding attention 
when he addressed the body, and making 
impression by the cogency of his speech and 
the soundness of his arguments'. 

Mr. Thompson was married, at Lykens, 
October 24, 1872, to Lizzie A. Halk, daugh- 
ter of William and Rebecca (Laud ensch lager) 
Halk, the former a merchant tailor at Wico- 
nisco. To their union has been born two 
children: W. Claud, student-at-law, secretary 
and treasurer of the Williams Valley Light, 
Heat and Power Company, and Warren 
Ray, graduate Pennsylvania State College, 
now taking electrical engineering course at 
Pennsylvania State College. 

Mr. Thompson is a lover of horses and 
has a track of his own. He has some fine 
specimens of fast horses. He is a member 
of Post No. 232, G. A. R., at Lykens, and 
past commander of William Thompson Post, 
No. 174, Tower City. The family are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. 

Mr. Thompson began life without the aid 
and influence of property, but rich in native 
endowments and strong in pluck and push. 



He has traveled the road on foot, and well 
knows every inch of the way from the hum- 
blest obscurity to an acknowledged and en- 
viable prominence and popularity. As a 
business man, statesman and jurist he is of 
acknowledged ability. 

Duncan, Joseph, general foundry and 
machine shop, Lykens, Pa., was born in 
Derbyshire, England, May 13, 1846. His 
father, George Duncan, was born in Scot- 
land. In his younger days he was a miner. 
While still a young man he removed to 
England, locating in Derbyshire, and fol- 
lowed the trade of machinist with the Shef- 
field and Lancastershire Railway Company. 
He married Elizabeth Joshuason, born in 
Leicestershire, England. They had nine 
children: Mary, Joseph, John, George, Will- 
iam, David, Martha, Jennie, and Elizabeth. 
The father and mother both died in Eng- 
land. 

Joseph Duncan attended school until he 
was nine years old, when he went to work 
for sixpence a day in the machine shops; 
this continued until he was fourteen years 
old, when he was bound to Byer & Pea- 
cock, locomotive builders, near Manchester, 
England. For the first three years his 
wages were one shilling per day ; during the 
next four years he received one shilling and 
six pence per day. After his term of ap- 
prenticeship had expired he visited many 
parts of England, and worked in various 
places, getting new ideas of the working of 
iron, etc. 

In 1869 Mr. Duncan came to this country 
on the steamer City of Paris, landed at New 
York, and after a short stay went to Phila- 
delphia, and soon after to Harrisburg, Pa. 
After a few daj's he came to Lykens, where 
for ten years he was machinist for the Sum- 
mit Branch Railroad Company, and spent 
nine years in the shops of the Lykens Valley 
railroad. In 1888 Mr. Duncan bought the 
present plant from J. M. Hensel for $8,000, 
and improved it at an additional outlay of 
$3,000, making it for convenience and com- 
pleteness of equipment one of the most 
thoroughly appointed plants in the State, 
with a capacity for any product, from a tack 
to a locomotive. The plant is capable of an 
output of one hundred tons of finished 
castings per month. 

Mr. Duncan was married, at Manchester, 
England, in 1866, to Sarah Kemp, a native 
of England, born in 1846. Of their twelve 



1162 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



children, those now living are : Harriet, 
wife of George Hersh, miner; Elizabeth, 
wife of Frederick Senior, foundryman ; 
Jennie, Walter, Josephine, George, and Han- 
nah. The deceased children are: George, 
Mary, Sarah, David, and Katie. Mr. Dun- 
can is a member of the Episcopal church. 
His politics are Republican. Comfortably 
situated in his fine dwelling house, with a 
safe and prosperous business, surrounded by 
a host of friends and well wishers, Mr. Dun- 
can may call his career a successful one. 



Stanley, Alfred G., druggist, Lykens, Pa. 
was born in Salisbury, England, January 24, 
1845. His father, Robert Stanley, was born 
in Nottingham, England, in 1805. In his 
younger days he was a lace manufacturer, 
and later in life was a professor of music. 
He was a distinguished alto singer and was 
leader of the choir in the Salisbury Cathe- 
dral. On December 14, 1843, he married 
Annie Allwood, born in Worksop, Notting- 
hamshire, who died August 17, 1874. They 
had nine children: Frederick A., deceased ; 
Alfred G.; Georgiana, wife of Charles Stroud, 
lawyer in England ; Thomas A.; Robert, died 
aged twenty-five years ; Maud, wife of Harry 
Worth, of Nottingham ; Sidney J., also a law- 
yer; Katie, and Lucy, deceased. The father 
still resides in England, at the age of eighty- 
one. 

Alfred G. Stanley attended the parochial 
schools of his native place and the Cathedral 
College of Salisbury. He learned the drug 
business with Roberts & Son, with whom he 
spent four and a half years, after which he 
went to London and graduated with the well- 
known firm of Peter Boully, retail druggist, 
of London. Having worked, for some time 
at the profession in London, he found a 
change necessary to his health. He canfeto 
this country in 1869 and was for a short time 
in New York, then in Phiadelphia with Ellis 
Sons & Co. In 1871 he came to Lykens, Pa., 
and established a first-class drug business 
with a general supply of all kinds of drugs ; 
he has acquired the reputation of being one 
of the most reliable druggists of the county. 

Mr. Stanley was married, at Lykens, in 
December, 1873, to Mary, daughter of G. 
Spoerl, born in Lykens. They have seven 
children: Walter, deceased ; Frederick, drug- 
gist, with his father; Charles, also with his 
father; Wallington Smith ; Katie A. M.; 
Ray, and Mabel. In politics Mr. Stanley is 



a liberal. He is a member of the Episcopal 
church. 

For sixteen years Mr. Stanley was presi- 
dent of the Gratz Agricultural Society ; he 
has been president of the Lykens Agricul- 
tural Society for three years. He is a lover 
of horses, and has some very fine ones. He 
has in his possession some rare stuffed birds 
from various parts of the world, some of 
which he brought from England on his re- 
turn from a visit to that country in 1886. 
His visit was made for the purpose of seeing 
his father, now eighty-one years of age. 

Mr. Stanley is a genial gentleman and a 
live business man. He is the proprietor of 
the celebrated Stanley Bitters. He is well- 
known and popular. 



Lefevee, Dr. John Russel, homoeop- 
athist, Lykens, Pa., was born in New Bloom- 
field, Perry county, Pa., October 7, 1860. His 
father. Dr. Isaac Lefever, was born in Gettys- 
burg, Pa., in 1820, and was a son of Jacob 
Lefever, founder and editor of the Gettys- 
burg Compiler. Dr. Isaac Lefever was edu- 
cated in Gettysburg, and for some time 
edited the Compiler. He read medicine and 
graduated from the University of Pennsyl- 
vania, and afterwards adopted homoeopathy. 
He practiced in Cumberland county a few 
years and in Perry county. In 1868 he re- 
moved to Mechanicsburg, Pa., where he 
practiced until 1872; he then removed to 
Harrisburg, where he built up an extensive 
practice, and where he died October 20, 1893. 
He was a member of the Reformed church. 

John Russel Lefever attended school in 
New Bloomfield and in Mechanicsburg, and 
was graduated from the high school, Harris- 
burg, Pa. He read medicine with his father, 
and was graduated from the Hahnemann 
Medical College of Philadelphia in 1884. In 
August of that year he located at Lykens, 
Pa., where he enjoys a large and successful 
practice. 

Dr. Lefever was married, at Harrisburg, 
Pa., in 1886, to M}a'a B., daughter of Samuel 
M. Ebersole, of Harrisburg. Dr. and Mrs. 
Lefever have three children : Hallett R., 
born October 9, 1887 ; Russel M., December 
15, 1892, and Lillian M., October 17, 1894. 
Dr. Lefever is a Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal church, and 
of Wiconisco Lodge, No. 570, F. & A. M., and 
State Capital Lodge, No. 70, I. O. O. F., Har- 
risburg. The Doctor is a very clever man in 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1163 



his profession, and of very agreeable person- 
ality. He is popular and prosperous, happy 
himself, and making others happy. 

Lefever, John Russel, M. D., homce- 
opathist, Lykens,Pa.,wasborn in New Bloom- 
field, Perry county, Pa., October 7, 1860. The 
various branches of the Lefever family found 
widely scattered in Pennsylvania and south- 
ward generally claim descent from Hugue- 
not ancestors, exiled from France by reli- 
gious persecution some two centuries ago. 
They are to be met with in York, Cumber- 
land, Crawford and Adams counties, Pa., 
about Winchester, Va., and in other locali- 
ties, but it has become impossible to trace 
relationships among them. The Lefevers of 
Crawford county and of Winchester are prob- 
ably the most closely allied to the family 
treated of in this sketch, having descended 
from uncles of Jacob Lefever, who was Dr. 
John R.'s grandfather. 

Jacob Lefever was born near Newville, 
Cumberland county, Fa., May 31, 1/95. He 
remained at home on his father's farm until 
he was about twenty, when he went into a 
printing office in Carlisle, Pa. Leaving Car- 
lisle in 1818, he went to Gettysburg and 
there established a newspaper, which lie 
called the Republican Compiler, and which 
he conducted until 1839, when Governor 
Porter appointed him register and recorder 
of Adams county. He held the office until 
the Constitution made it elective. At the 
time of his appointment he retired from the 
paper, and soon after the expiration of his 
term of office returned to Cumberland 
county and engaged in farming. In the 
spring of 1848 Mr. Lefever represented 
Cumberland county in the State Legislature. 
He was still a resident of this county when 
he died, April 26, 1875, in his eightieth 
year. 

Dr. Isaac Lefever was the son of Jacob 
Lefever and his wife Elizabeth, a native of 
Gettysburg, and of German descent. . He 
was born in Gettysburg, June 15, 1820, and 
spent in that town the first twenty-five 
years of his life. It may be said that his 
education was mainly acquired through his 
diligent application while employed in his 
father's printing office; for, although he at- 
tended school regularly from the early age 
of five until he reached his thirteenth year, 
it was but a common school education, suf- 
ficient only to acquaint him with the ele- 
mentary branches. When nearly thirteen 



he went into the printing office, worked dur- 
ing the day and studied at night, often ris- 
ing before daylight on winter mornings to 
read and study in the office until breakfast 
time. The busy young printer even found 
time for Latin, reciting on winter evenings, 
about 1833 or 1834, to Dr. J. H. Marsden, now 
of York Springs, Pa., but at that time prin- 
cipal of an academy for girls at Gettys- 
burg. 

After his father's return to Cumberland 
county, Isaac Lefever conducted the Compi- 
ler until the spring of 1842, when he sold the 
establishment, intending to remove from 
Gettysburg. But at this time a new impulse 
was given to his life, by the influence of 
David Gilbert, M. D., whose lectures on 
anatomy and physiology before the senior 
class of Pennsylvania College he had at- 
tended, by invitation of Dr. Gilbert, two or 
three years before. The Doctor now sought 
an interview with the young man, whose 
talents he had discerned, and suggested that 
he should study medicine. The idea was 
new to Mr. Lefever, but after mature consid- 
eration and consultation with friends he de- 
cided to act upon it, and accordingly com- 
menced reading with Dr. Gilbert in the 
summer of the same year. He studied un- 
der his preceptor until October, 1844, mean- 
while attending a course of lectures on 
chemistry at Pennsylvania College, by Prof. 
M. Jacobs. During the winter of 1844 and 
1845 Mr. Lefever attended lectures at the 
medical department of Pennsylvania Col- 
lege, in Philadelphia, in which Dr. Gilbert 
then occupied the cbair of surgery. The 
other professors were Drs. William R. Grant, 
William Darrach, H. L. Patterson, J. Wilt- 
bank, and Washington L. Atlee. Of this 
group of distinguished men, Dr. Atlee is now 
the sole survivor. Pennsylvania Medical 
College then, and for a few j 7 ears after, occu- 
pied a building afterwards the seat of Hahne- 
mann College, but the former was always 
allopathic in its principles. 

Dr. Isaac Lefever first practiced his pro- 
fession at Mount Rock, Cumberland county, 
Pa., for one year, then moved to Loysville, 
in Sherman's Valley, Perry county; in No- 
vember, 1855, removed to New Bloom field, 
county seat of Perry county. Here he joined 
the Perry County Medical Society, served in 
all its offices and held his membership until 
he took up homoeopathy. He was also con- 
nected with the State Medical Society, and 
among its records are several reports made 



1164 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



by him on behalf of the Perry county so- 
ciety. In 1860 Dr. Lefever was appointed 
postmaster of New Bloomfield. accepting the 
office principally on account of some finan- 
cial difficulties affecting himself and others 
as sureties for the previousincumbeut; these 
difficulties being removed, his resignation 
was tendered and accepted, and he was re- 
lieved of office in 1861. In that year he was 
appointed surgeon of the Third brigade, 
Fifteenth division, Uniformed militia of 
Pennsylvania, and held the commission un- 
til the then existing militia system was re- 
modeled. In October, 1862, he was elected 
associate judge of tbecourts of Perry county, 
and served in that office for a term of five 
years. 

In 1862 Dr. Lefever wished to apply for 
an appointment in the medical department 
of the army, but could not obtain the con- 
sent of his wife and family to this step until 
1864. The application made, after due ex- 
amination, he was commissioned and ordered 
to report to the Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania 
volunteers. With some little difficulty he 
reached his regiment, which was encamped 
close by the battlefield of Chupin's Farm, 
and remained with it until it was discharged. 
Although his commission was that of assist- 
ant surgeon, yet as he was the only medical 
officer with the regiment he performed sur- 
geon's duty. During a part of the time he 
also served in the same capacity a New 
York battery of artiller}', besides rendering 
similar services occasionally to other regi- 
ments deprived of their medical officers. In 
July, 1865, the regiment was discharged at 
Raleigh, N. C, and the Doctor returned home 
and resumed his practice. 

Even before his graduation from Pennsyl- 
vania Medical College, which took place in 
March, 1854, Dr. Lefever had given some 
consideration to the subject of homoeopathy, 
but laboring under the misapprehension 
common among allopathic physicians that 
that system consists merely in giving very 
minute doses of medicine, he paid it little 
attention. Still, with a candid desire for in- 
formation, he purchased and read Hahne- 
mann's Organon, as well as the treatise of 
Professor Simpson, of Edinburg, against 
homoeopathy. Influenced, however, rather 
by the latter book, which was most in ac- 
cordance with his education, he again dis- 
missed the subject from his mind and con- 
tinued allopathic practice. But now, after 
his return from the army, it was in some 



way brought again under his consideration. 
Meeting with a very intelligent homoeopathic 
physician, and receiving satisfactory answers 
to the many inquiries which he made of this 
gentleman, Dr. Lefever began to experiment 
as well as to read carefully on the subject. 
Preparing some medicines be treated several 
cases, as he then supposed homceopathicall} 7 , 
but found afterwards that he had only made 
an approach to that practice; yet be ob- 
tained results which led to further experi- 
ment with growing light on the subject and 
strengthening convictions, until, actually 
against his inclination, he became fully con- 
vinced of the truth of homoeopathy, and 
wholly discarded allopathic drugs. The 
longer he is engaged in homoeopathic prac- 
tice, the stronger is his conviction that it is 
the true method of treating diseases. 

In the sjmng of 1869 he left New Bloom- 
field for Mechanicsburg, Cumberland county, 
from which place, in November, 1872, he re- 
moved to Harrisburg, Pa., where he di^d 
October 20, 1893, and his remains were in- 
terred in the cemetery at New Bloomfield, 
Perry county, Pa. 

Kalbach, Harry A., druggist, Lykens, 
was born in Berks county, Pa., October 15, 
1872. His father, William A. Kalbach, was 
born in Berks county in 1844, and is a son 
of Adam Kalbach, a farmer of that county. 
He was a lumber manufacturer, on a large 
scale, in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. 
He married Emma S. Lengel, born in Berks 
county in 1851. Their children are : Harry 
A., Clayton W. and Webster L., both at 
school. Mr. and Mrs. William A. Kalbach 
reside in Robesonia, Berks county, Pa. They 
are members of the Reformed church. 

Harry A. Kalbach attended the common 
schools until lie was thirteen years old, when 
he entered Palatinate College, Meyerstown, 
Lebanon county, Pa,, and took a special 
course of two years and a half in mathe- 
matics and science in 1890. He spent seven 
months as drug clerk with Dr. P. M. Ziegler, 
of Reading, Pa., after which he was with 
R. E. Moj^er, of the same city, for two and a 
half years. He was graduated from the 
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy in 1894, 
after which he was with his uncle, L. D. 
Kalbach, Bernville, Berks county, until 
April, 1895. In that month he came to Ly- 
kens and bought the oldest drug store in the 
place, owned at one time by Mr. Garman, 
and afterwards by Brallier & Co. Mr. Kal- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1165 



bach carries a full stock of pure, fresh drugs 
and all other goods found in a first-class 
store. Physicians' prescriptions and family 
recipes are carefully compounded under his 
supervision, and accuracy and safety may 
be relied upon. 

Mr. Kalbach is a Democrat. He is a mem- 
ber of the Reformed church. He was mar- 
ried in Robesonia, Berks county, June 2, 
1896, to Miss Sallie M. Miller, a native of 
Robesonia, and daughter of Adam P. and 
Amanda (Klopp) Miller, residents of Robe- 
sonia. 



Hbnsel, Thomas A., was born in Lykens, 
Dauphin county, Pa., December 6, 1853. 
His grandfather, Andrew Hensel, was born 
near Gettysburg, Pa., and was a shoemaker. 
He was a soldier in the war of 1812. He 
married Mary A. Geisse, by whom he had 
six . children :' Adam, George, and Anna 
Barbara, deceased; John, Andrew, and 
Michael. Andrew was a Democrat. He and 
his wife were members of the Reformed 
church. Both died in Bloomfield, Perry 
county, Pa. 

John Hensel, father of T. A., was born at 
Bloomfield, December 11, 1824, was educated 
in his native county, and learned carpentry, 
which he made his occupation. He has re- 
sided in Lykens since 1846. On March 1, 
1853, he married Susan Moyer, born in 
Lykens Valley, daughter of Jacob Moyer, a 
shoemaker of Lykens Valley, and of an old 
family. They had six children : Thomas 
A.; Rebecca, wife of Edward Harris ; John, 
of Lykens; Jennie, resides in Lykens; Jacob, 
and Charles, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Hensel 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
church. In politics Mr. Hensel's views are 
liberal. 

Thomas A. Hensel was educated in the 
schools of Lykens and at Dickinson Semi- 
nary,Williamsport, Pa. He learned printing 
under S. B. Coles and S. M. Fern. From 
1872 to April, 1885, he worked at the top of 
Lykens Valley slope, unhooking cars; a very 
responsible position. He served as clerk for 
one Eli Kohlberg, clothier, from April, 1885, 
to April, 1891. At the latter date, he and 
J. J. Nutt, as partners, bought the clothing- 
establish ment of L. Marks, who removed to 
Carlisle, Pa. In May, 1895, Mr. Hensel 
bought the interest of his partner, Mr. Nutt. 
He has been very successful in the clothing 
and furnishing business, handling only first- 
class goods. When the firm of T. A. Hensel 



& Co. began business in 1891 there were 
three clothing stores in Lykens. Two left 
town the first year, and the other was sold 
out by the sheriff within the next three 
years. 

Mr. Hensel joined Wiconisco Lodge, No. 
533, I. 0. 0. F., when he became of age, and 
has since joined Wiconisco Encampment, 
No. 181, I. 0. 0. F.; Estella Degree Lodge, 
No. 19, of Rebeccas, and Lykens Lodge, No. 
106, K. of P. He has served as district 
deputy grand master for northern Dauphin 
county for several years, and as district deputy 
grand patriarch of the Encampment for 
eight years. He has attended the Grand 
Lodge of Pennsylvania for ten years. 

Thomas A. Hensel was married, October 
23, 1882, to Miss Katie E. Coles, daughter of 
S. B. Coles. They have two children, a girl 
and a boy. The daughter, Lillian Anzella, 
is eleven years old, and is the largest girl of 
her age in Lykens. Forest Stanley, the son, 
is six years old, and is also large for his age. 
Mr. and Mrs. Hensel have been active and 
prominent in promoting sociability in 
Lykens. They were members of the Social 
Club "L. C. O", whose balls, parties and mas- 
querades will long be remembered as the 
local "good times" of 1875-1890, which 
drew the young people and lovers of enter- 
tainment from places fifty miles away. 



G arm an, Jonas, grocery merchant, was 
born in Snyder county, then Union county, 
Pa., November 12, 1827. Henry Garman, 
his grandfather, was of German and English 
descent. He was an extensive farmer in 
Snyder county. He married Mary Berg- 
stresser, of the same descent as himself. 
They had seventeen children. 

Peter Garman, father of Jonas Garman, 
was born in Snyder county, Pa., February 
28, 1803. He was a blacksmith and farmer 
and in later life had a country store in Perry 
township, Union county. He married Cathe- 
rine Minium, native of Northumberland 
county, Pa., daughter of Nicholas Minium, 
stone mason and farmer. They had seven 
children: William, deceased; Jonas; Peter, 
merchant on the old homestead in Snyder 
county ; Catherine, wife of David Kersteller, 
retired ; Sarah, deceased, wife of Thomas 
Misser ; Sophia, wife of Elias Minnich, 
farmer in Berrien county, Mich.; Eliza- 
beth, deceased, wife of Henry Misser, also 
deceased. Mr. Peter Garman was a Whig. 
He and his wife were members of the old 



1166 



BIO GRA PEICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



school Lutheran church. Both died in 
Snyder county, Pa. 

Jonas Garman attended the district schools 
in Perry township, Snyder county, and 
worked with his father on the farm until he 
was twenty-one years of age. He learned 
cabinet making and worked at that trade 
for several years in different parts of the 
State. Having learned the drug business 
in a wholesale house in Philadelphia, he 
came to Lykens in 1857 and opened a drug 
store, which he conducted for twenty years 
with good success. In 1881 he was also a 
partner with Reily Bressler in the tin and 
hardware business. In 1866, with J. M. 
Hensel as partner, Mr. Garman built and 
equipped a foundry and continued its man- 
agement for eight years. After this he was 
for some years retired from active business. 
In 1891 he opened a grocery store, and has 
been successful in this line. 

Jonas Garman was married, in 1857, at 
Freeburg, Pa., to Martha Leopold, a native 
of Dauphin county. Their children are five 
in number: Jonas H., druggist at Lykens; 
Martha V., wife of J. L. Weidler, Renovo, 
Pa.; Samuel F., Peter, and Kate, deceased. 
Mrs. Martha Garman died at Lykens in 
1876. Mr. Garman married again in 1878 ; 
his second wife was Sarah A. Wirt, widow 
of H. H. Mosser. They have two children : 
Jessie and Pauline M., at school. 

Mrs. Garman, by her first marriage with 
Mr. Mosser, had three children: Wirt, com- 
mercial man ; Charles E., clerk at Lykens, 
and Nef. H., in Harrisburg. 

Mr. Garman is a Republican. He served 
for several years as school director and was 
always an advocate of compulsory education. 
He is a member of the Lutheran church, 
has been a deacon and is elder and trustee ; 
he has served in all church offices. 

In the way of enterprise and progressive 
and pushing business spirit and methods 
Mr. Garman has been a leading man in the 
community. In personal worth he stands 
at the front. He was postmaster during 
Abraham Lincoln's administration. 



Long, Adam C, bookseller and stationer, 
was born in Jonestown, Lebanon county, 
Pa., August 1, 1844. His great grandfather 
Aubarn Long, or rather Lang, as the name 
was originally spelled, was a native of Ger- 
many and a soldier in the Revolutionary 
war. His son, Christian Long, grandfather 
of Adam C, took part in the war of 1812. 



He was a distiller. He had eleven children. 
He was a member of the Lutheran church, 
old school. Joseph Long, father of A. C, 
was also born in Jonestown. He was a 
farmer and distiller in Lebanon county ; in 
the winter he worked as blacksmith and 
cooper. He married Catherine Shuey, born 
in Union township, Lebanon county, mem- 
ber of an old German family. They had six 
children : Edward C, of Pittsburgh ; Adam 
G; Monroe C, postmaster at Jonestown, Pa.; 
Emma, wife of B. F. Schools, weighmaster 
Cornwall Furnace; Sallie G, wife of E. P' 
Schropp, foundryman, Lebanon, Pa.; Annie 
E., wife of William Shirk, a business man of 
Fredericksburg, Pa. Mr. J. Long died De- 
cember 23, 1886. He was a Democrat. He 
was a member of the Lutheran church. His 
wife is still living at seventy-six years of age. 

Adam C. Long attended the schools of 
Jonestown, Pa., also Swatara Collegiate 
Institute, from which he was graduated in 
1860. He taught school three terms in Leb- 
anon and Schuylkill counties. He was gen- 
eral clerk in a store in Fredericksburg until 
1870, when he came to Lykens Valley and 
for fourteen and a half years was bookkeeper 
and clerk for the firm of Miller & Hielner, 
Wiconisco, giving the utmost satisfaction. 
In 1884 Mr. Long began selling organs and 
musical instruments and opened a book- 
store in Lykens. He has continued the 
business very successfully to the present 
time. 

Mr. Long was married, at Meyerstown, 
Lebanon county, Pa., October 31, 1867, to 
Elizabeth L., daughter of Henry Lebo, farmer 
of Lebanon count y. She was born at Meyers- 
town, March 23. 1848. They have two chil- 
dren, Irvin J., born February 6, 1869, editor 
and proprietor of the Lykens Register, and 
Ella N., born January 6, 1871, wife of Arthur 
F. Douden, druggist, Brooklyn, N. Y. Mrs. 
Long died June 29, 1895. She took an ac- 
tive part in church matters. 

Mr. Long is a Republican in political prin- 
ciples; is notary public, agent for the Nor- 
wood Insurance Company, of New York, 
and for the German Insurance Company, of 
Pittsburgh, and pension attorney for Lykens. 
He belongs to Lykens Lodge, No. 106, K. of 
P., and is a past officer of the order. 



Smith, Wellington J., M. D., physician 
and surgeon, was born on the eastern shore 
of Maryland, November 16, 1837. His 
grandfather, John F. Smith, was a practi- 



DATIPBIN COUNTY. 



1167 



tionef of medicine ; he came with his family 
from England in 1830, and practiced in 
Maryland, where he died about 1845. Will- 
iam J. Smith, father of Dr. Wellington J. 
Smith, was born in Carlisle, Northumber- 
land county, England, December 29, 1810. 
He was a graduate of the medical school of 
the University of Edinburg, Scotland; also 
of the University of Pennsylvania, medical 
department, in 1832. He practiced in Phila- 
delphia, and later in Pottsville, Pa. He 
died in Minersville, Schuylkill county, in 
1859. He was the only child of Dr. J. F. 
Smith. He married Miss Mary A. Ryan, a 
native of England. Their children were: 
Ruth Anna, wife of W. D. H. Mason, post- 
master, William stown, Pa.; and Dr. Wel- 
lington J. Dr. William J. Smith was a 
Democrat. He was an Episcopalian. 

Wellington J. Smith was educated in 
Minersville and at Dickinson College, Car- 
lisle, Pa., and was graduated from the medi- 
cal department of the University of Penn- 
sylvania in 1862, having previously read 
medicine with his father. He practiced one 
year at Minersville and three years in 
Philadelphia. Since 1866 he has been a 
resident of Lykens, where he is very popu- 
lar as a physician and has a large practice. 
He is also eminently successful as a surgeon, 
having performed many difficult operations. 

Dr. Wellington J. Smith was married, in 
1863, to Maria Hablett, born in Tamaqua, 
Pa.; daughter of John Hablett, an English- 
man by birth, and a railroad and tunnel 
contractor. Their children are : Lulu M., 
graduate of Kee-Mar College, Hagerstown, 
Md.; W. Gordon, druggist, of Philadelphia; 
Beulah E., and Alfred, the former a gradu- 
ate of the Lykens high school. 

Dr. Smith is a member of the Episcopal 
church. He is a Democrat; has been school 
director for two terms, councilman for two 
terms, and medical examiner for the pen- 
sion board for ten years. Dr. Smith is 
widely and well known as being eminent in 
his profession, and a genial gentleman, en- 
joying the esteem of his neighbors. 

Keen, W. H. Clay, member of the Legis- 
lature from Dauphin county and clerk in 
the office of the Lykens Valley Coal Com- 
pany, was born in Wiconisco, Dauphin 
county, Pa., May 24, 1860. Daniel Keen, his 
grandfather, was a native of Tower City and 
a shoemaker. John H. Keen, father of W. 



H. C. Keen, was born in Lykens Valley in 
1840. He was a blacksmith and worked all 
his life at his trade in the mines. He mar- 
ried Anna May Mace, born in Berrysburg, 
Pa., in 1833; daughter of John Mace, a 
weaver. They had six children : W. H. 
Clay ; Ambrose, clerk for the Lehigh and 
Wilkes-Barre Coal Company ; C. E. L., a 
doctor; Annie, a school teacher; George S. 
J., student of medicine, at college in Phila- 
delphia; Benjamin S., machinist; Millard 
and John died young. Mr. Keen is a Re- 
publican ; has been school director for eleven 
years. He is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church and is superintendent of 
the Sunday-school. Mr. and Mrs. Keen re- 
side in Wiconisco. 

In early boyhood W. H. Clay Keen at- 
tended the public schools of Wiconisco. At 
the age of eleven he began to earn $3 
per week at picking slate in the breaker; 
after four years at this occupation he was 
employed three years longer in the mines as 
a pumping engineer. Being industrious and 
frugal he saved money, which enabled him 
to complete his education. At the age of 
eighteen he entered Waynesburg College. 
He then taught school in Wiconisco for four 
years. In L883 he obtained a position as 
clerk for the Lykens Valley Coal Company 
and has ever since held that position, per- 
forming its duties ably and faithfully and 
with entire satisfaction to the company. 

Mr. Keen was elected to the State Legis- 
lature in 1893 to fill the unexpired term of 
J. A. Laudenslager, and re-elected for a sec- 
ond term. He is a Republican and active 
and prominent in the party, as is shown by 
his elevation to important offices. The coal 
mines at Wiconisco and the legislative halls 
at Harrisburg are both in Dauphin county, 
and are therefore not geographically far 
apart. But the social uplift from the posi- 
tion of the toil-stained little slate-picker in 
the one to that of the successful and hon- 
ored legislator in the other is a magnificent 
movement, accomplished by the industry, 
talent and fidelity of Mr. Keen. 

W. H. Clay Keen was married, in Wico- 
nisco, Pa., in 1885, to Amelia M., daughter 
of George W. Hochlauder, of Cumberland 
county, Pa. They have three children : 
Edwin Roy, Florence M., deceased, and Mary 
Elma. Mr. Keen is a member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal church and superintendent 
of the Sunday-school. 



72 



1168 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



Steckel, Rev. L. D., pastor of Christ Re- 
formed church, Lykens, Pa., was born near 
Whitehall, Lehigh county, Pa., January 2, 
1839. The ancestors of Rev. L. D. Steckel 
came from Zweibrucken, or Zweibruecken, 
Germany, and were among the early settlers 
of Pennsylvania. Daniel Steckel, father of 
Rev. L. D. Steckel, was also born in Lehigh 
county, in 1789. He was a farmer in that 
county. He married Elizabeth Frantz, a 
native of Lehigh county, daughter of Peter 
Frantz, a farmer. They had ten children : 
Hattie, wife of Charles Shafer, of Whitehall, 
Lehigh county; Reuben, resides in Lehigh 
county: Polly, wife of Stephen S. Albright, of 
Allentown, Pa.; Amos, of Bloomfield, Iowa ; 
William, merchant, Montpelier, Ind.; Alfred, 
doctor, Slatington, Pa.; Rev. L. D.; Edmond, 
doctor, Allentown, Pa.; Henry, professor in 
the Whitehall schools, and Caroline, wife of 
Joseph Miller, of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Steckel 
both died on the old homestead in Lehigh 
county, the former in 1877, and the latter in 
1879. Mr. Steckel was originally a Whig, 
and later identified with the Republican 
party. He was a member of the Reformed 
church in the United States. He and his wife 
were prominent and highly respected people, 
faithful, just, and kind in all the relations of 
life. 

L. D. Steckel attended the public schools 
of his town until he was ten years of age, and 
when he was seventeen years old was gradu- 
ated from the high school. He taught school 
eight winters and worked at agricultural 
work during the summers. He enlisted at 
Allentown, Pa., October 18, 1862, in company 
G, One Hundred and Seventy-sixth Pennsyl- 
vania volunteers, Capt. L. P. Hecker, Col. A. 
A. Lechler, and spent nine months in the 
service. He held the rank of quartermaster 
sergeant. 

After his return from the army he spent 
one year as a student at Dickinson College, 
after which he took a three years' course in 
theology in Mercersburg Seminary, and was 
ordained to the ministry in 1867. His first 
charge was Millersville, Lancaster county, 
where lie spent one year. He was next for 
three years pastor at Huntingdon, Pa; then 
had a charge in Perry county for one year 
and a half, and was next at Meyersdale, 
Somerset county, for eight years; there he 
built a church edifice, remodeled the par- 
sonage, and otherwise improved the church 
property, to the extent of $5,000. Mr. Steckel 
spent two years at Womelsdorf, Berks county, 



three years in Pottsville, and five at Mifflin" 
burg, Union county. 

In 1891 Rev. Mr. Steckel received a call 
from the Reformed congregation at Lykens 
to become their pastor, which he accepted, 
and entered upon the pastorate in the same 
year. The work at Lykens has greatly pros- 
pered under his care. A church edifice cost- 
ing $5,000 has been erected, and every branch 
of congregational work is in good condition. 
Rev. Mr. Steckel has another congregation 
at Tower City, and he is equally faithful 
and efficient in looking after the spiritual 
needs of that part of his parish. Since com- 
ing to Lykens he has done a grand work in 
promoting the religious interests of the com- 
munity ; and the value of his services is cor- 
dially recognized by all the citizens, regard- 
less of political differences. He and his family 
are quick to respond to all appeals for ma- 
terial or spiritual help. 

Rev. Mr. Steckel was married, at Manheim, 
Lancaster county, Pa., in 1869, to Barbara 
Peters, born at Millersville, Pa., February 16, 
1841 ; daughter of Hon. Abraham Peters, a 
native of Millersville, Lancaster county, Pa., 
a farmer and stock raiser. Mr. and Mrs. 
Steckel have four children: Mary, born at 
Huntingdon, Pa., January 17, 1872, gradu- 
ated from Female College at Allentown, Pa., 
and the Conservatory of Music, Philadelphia, 
is a teacher of music ; Martha, born March 8, 
1875, at Meyersdale, Pa., graduated at the 
college at Meyerstown, Pa., and in 1892 at 
the College of Oratory, Philadelphia; Fannie 
E., born July 7, 1877, graduated at Lykens 
high school, 1894, and at Frederick, Md., 
College for Women in 1895, is a music 
teacher; Abraham Peters, born April 1, 
1879, graduated at the Lykens high school, 
1894, and from Mercersburg College, in 1895, 
now attending Lehigh University. 

Mr. Steckel takes an interest in public and 
political affairs. The family are members 
of the Reformed church in the United States. 
Rev. Mr. Steckel has in his family a compe- 
tent and devoted staff of church workers. Mrs. 
Steckel has for seven years been president 
of the Ladies' Aid Society. The daughters 
have formed a Young People's Society, in 
which they take an active part. The Misses 
Steckel are organists of the church. All the 
members of the family are interested in Sun- 
day-school work and in the educational and 
benevolent enterprises of the community. 
Their home is a fountain of good influ- 
ences. 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1169 



Shive, Edward L., engineer Northern 
Central, Summit Branch railroad, was born 
in Lykens Valley, June 11, 1835. John 
Shive, his father, was born in Lykens Val- 
le}' in 1801. His trade was weaving, but he 
also did butchering and other kinds of work. 
In later years he was lock tender on the 
canal. He married Sarah Wert, born in 
Lykens Valley. They had six children : 
Alfred, restaurant keeper, at Williamsburg, 
Pa.; Caroline, deceased, wife of Joseph Mil- 
ler, of Powell's Valley ; Edward L.; Eman- 
uel, deceased; Rachel, died young; Lizzie 
J., wife of Andrew Pressley, both deceased. 
Mr. Shive was a Democrat. He died in Mid- 
dle Paxton township in 1851. His wife died 
at the same place in the same year. 

Edward L. Shive attended school at Mil- 
lersburg, and began work when he was 
quite young. At fifteen years of age he be- 
came collector of tolls for the Clark's Ferry 
Bridge Company, and held the place three 
years. He also worked on the canal 
for two years, and finally engaged in boat- 
ing ; for eight years he ran a boat of his 
own. After this he was employed by the 
railroad company as engine cleaner. In 
1859 he became brakeman, then fireman, 
and in 1865 he was promoted to engineer. 
Mr. Shive has run on the same road for over 
thirty years, during which time he has 
made the remarkable and honorable, as 
well as enviable, reputation of having had 
no accident to any train drawn by his en- 
gine, a record perhaps unparalleled in the 
history of railroad engineers. Such skill 
and fidelity, such courage and devotion, 
such patience and painstaking, such sleep- 
less vigilance and cool-headed judgment as 
have enabled him to make this record of 
successful work, have won for him the ut- 
most confidence of the comjaany and created 
for him a claim on the respect and gratitude 
of the traveling public. All honor to the 
man who has had thousands of human lives 
and millions of property entrusted to him 
in transit, and who steps down from his cab 
with not a cent's worth of loss or damage to 
his charge and no stain of blood on his con- 
science. If there be a true legion of honor 
among men he has in his record a free pass- 
port to its highest ranks. 

Edward L. Shive was married, in Harris- 
burg, October 11, 1858, to Mary J. Weaver, 
born in Millersburg, August 7, 1842. They 
have five children: Sarah A., unmarried; 
Katie E., widow of Joseph Klinger ; Susan 



P., wife of J. P. Heckard ; Ella, in Harris- 
burg, and John A., died in infancy. Mr. 
Shive is a Republican. He is a member of 
Perseverance Lodge, No. 133, I. 0. 0. F., at 
Millersburg, and was a member of the Order 
of Rebecca. He is one of the largest donors 
to the Zion Lutheran church, of which he is 
a member, and in which he has been Sun- 
day-school teacher and superintendent. He 
was a member of the church council at Will- 
iamstown. His children are all church 
members and workers in the Sunday-school. 

Martin Weaver, father of Mrs. Shive, was 
born in the State of Pennsylvania in 1811. 
He was a machinist and worked at Potts- 
ville, Pittsburgh, and Millersburg. He was 
killed at a railroad crossing near Millersburg, 
July 30, 1878. He was married, in 1841, to 
Elizabeth Keefer, born in Hanover township, 
Dauphin county, in 1820. They had six 
children: Reuben, deceased: Charles, of 
Lancaster county; Mary J., Mrs. Shive; 
Elizabeth, wife of H. Joury. a railroad man ; 
William Miller, at Millersburg, and Nathan, 
distiller. Mrs. Weaver finds a pleasant 
home with her daughter, Mrs. Shive. 

Joseph P. Heckart, son-in-law of Mr. Shive, 
was born in Lloydsville, Perry county, Pa., 
November 19, 1803; son of Joseph and Sarah 
(Grimm) Heckart, and one of four children. 
He was educated in the schools of White 
Hill, Cumberland county. When a young 
man he came to Lykens and obtained a posi- 
tion as clerk with William Bergstresser, with 
whom he has remained since that time, be- 
ing foreman in the general mercantile busi- 
ness. Joseph Heckart was married, in Ly- 
kens, April 6, 1884, to Susan R., daughter of 
Edward L. Shive. They have two children, 
Zenie, born September 25, 1886, and Clyde 
S., born June 11, 1890. Mr. Heckart is a 
Republican. He is a member of Lykens 
Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and of the Lu- 
theran church. 



Kuntzelman, Amos, sewing machine 
agent, Lykens, Pa., was born in Lykens 
Valley, March 20, 1833. Henry Kuntzel- 
man, his father, was born in Pine Valley, 
Schuylkill county, Pa., in 1779, and was a 
son of Henry Kuntzelman, a native of Penn- 
sylvania, and a farmer. Henry Kuntzel- 
man, Jr., was also a farmer, both in Pine 
Valley and also in Washington township, 
Dauphin county. He married Elizabeth 
McLean, of Irish descent, born in Millers- 
burg, Pa. They had four children : Josiah, 



1170 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



died in the army ; Elisha, residing in Illi- 
nois; Amos; Moses, resides in Nebraska. 
The father died in Lykens, January 19, 1880. 
He was a Republican and a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal church. His wife died 
in Lj'kens Valley in 1859. 

Amos Kuntzelman attended the Valley pub- 
lic schools and worked on the farm until he 
was fourteen years old. He then left home, 
learned tailoring in Lykens, and worked 
four years at that trade. In 1854 he began 
business for himself as a merchant tailor, 
first for three years at Fisherville, afterwards 
at Lykens, continuing until the breaking 
out of the war. 

Mr. Kuntzelman enlisted at Pottsville, 
Pa., September 23, 1861, in company G, 
Ninety-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, Capt. J. B. Haas and Colonel Cake. 
He took part in the battles of West Point 
and Cumberland Landing. He was taken 
sick from the effects of cold and exposure, 
and was confined in the hospital for two 
months. He was discharged from the ser- 
vice at Philadelphia in June, 1862, returned 
to Lykens, and for a time took up the sewing 
machine business. He re-enlisted at Harris- 
burg September 6, 1864, in company B, 
Ninth Pennsylvania cavalry. He was in the 
Atlanta campaign, and went with Sherman 
to the sea, under General Kilpatrick, who 
appointed him division tailor. He was dis- 
charged at Lexington, N. C, May 29, 1865. 
Returning to Lykens he resumed the sewing 
machine business. He handled the Singer 
machine for twenty-seven years, has sold the 
Standard for the past three, and has man- 
aged the business successfully. 

Amos Kuntzelman was married, in 1851, to 
Sarah Hoffman, born in Lykens Valley. 
They have four children: William H., 
miner, of Lykens ; Isaiah, tailor, Bainbridge, 
Lancaster count}', Pa.; Mary E., wife of H. 
E. Rumlinger, manufacturer, Philadelphia, 
and Clsfra, wife of Charles Foster, railroad 
man, of Bradford county. Pa. Mrs. Kunt- 
zelman died January 13, 1865. Mr. Kunt- 
zelman was married again October 23, 1865, 
to Sarah C. Ersenhower, native of Halifax, 
Pa., by whom he had one child, Robert A., 
a miner, of Lykens Valley. His second wife 
died May 5, 1882. 

Mr. Kuntzelman is a Republican. He is 
a member of Heilner Post, No. 232, G. A. R., 
at Lykens, and of Wiconisco Lodge, No. 533, 
I. 0. 0. F., Lykens. He belongs to the 
Methodist Episcopal church, and is a teacher 



in the Sunday-school. He is a diligent 
worker and an upright man, genial and 
popular, has a good family, and enjoys the 
respect and good will of all his neighbors. 

Wallace, John J., retired railroad man, 
Lykens, Pa., was born near Campbellstown, 
Lebanon county, Pa., October 20, 1824 ; son of 
William Wallace, a Pennsylvanian of Scotch- 
Irish descent, and a farmer. His earlier oc- 
cupation was charcoal burning. He married 
Elizabeth Christomer, a native of Lebanon 
county. Their children were : Thomas, de- 
ceased ; Leg-rand, deceased ; John J.; Eliza- 
beth ; Harriet, wife of James Shaw ; Mary, 
deceased; William, miner at Lykens. Mr. 
William Wallace died at Harrisburg; his 
wife died near Dauphin, Pa. He was a 
Democrat. 

John J. Wallace attended school both in 
Lebanon and Dauphin counties, for the most 
part subscription schools. In his younger 
days he worked both on the farm and on the 
railroad. In 1847 he removed to Lykens 
Valley, and for three years worked on the 
railroad and taught school. He owned a 
boat, which he used on the canal. In 1867 
he and Mr. Frederick Weaver owned and 
operated a line of cars on the Summit 
Branch railroad to Philadelphia. They built 
warehouses at Lykens at much expense, and 
operated the line until 1877. Mr. Wallace 
then took a farm of one hundred and thirty 
acres, eighty acres of which were cleared. 
For eight years he farmed this tract and 
then retired from active work and located in 
Lykens, where he built two houses and 
bought two more. He and his wife are liv- 
ing in their own home, quietly enjoying the 
fruits of their early labors, having done 
much to increase the prosperity of the place 
of their adoption. They are worthy people, 
and highly respected. 

Mr. Wallace was married, at Halifax, Pa., 
in 1849, to Elizabeth Snavely, born in Corn- 
wall township, Lebanon county, Pa., April 
8, 1831 ; daughter of Mary A. (Lemon) and 
Thomas Snavely, a shoemaker. Their chil- 
dren are: William L.; John G., of Philadel- 
phia; Alfred, of Philadelphia; Samuel; 
Anna, wife of Henry Harter; Jennie, Ellen, 
and Alice, all died young. Mr. Wallace is a 
Democrat of the old school. He is a member 
of the Lutheran church, and of the O. U. A. M. 

Mr. Wallace has seen many changes 
wrought in the valley. He has seen the 
town grow up where the wilderness was, and 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1171 



all wild life giving place to culture and 
civilization. Of these changes lie has been 
an important part, and can look back witb 
satisfaction to the career of industry and pub- 
lic service which he has pursued. 



Wallace,William L., chief clerk of Sum- 
mit Branch Railroad Company, Lykens, Pa., 
was born at Lykens, November 22, 1856 ; 
son of John J. and Elizabeth (Snavely) Wal- 
lace. He attended the public schools of Ly- 
kens and spent three months at an academy 
away from home. When he was eleven 
years old he was employed by his father in 
the railroad office at Lykens, where he re- 
mained until 1872 ; he was then transferred 
to Williamstown and made station agent at 
that point for one year. At the expiration 
of the year he resumed his clerkship at 
Lykens, and held the place until 1887. For 
nine months Mr. Wallace tried the tea busi- 
ness at Williamsport. Since January, 1888, 
he has been chief clerk in the office of the 
Northern Central Railroad Company at Ly- 
kens, a position which he has filled with 
satisfaction to the company and with credit 
to himself. He is popular among railroad 
men and much respected by all. 

William L.Wallace was married, at Hughes- 
ville, Lycoming county, Pa., in April, 1883, 
to Emma Snyder, born at Port Carbon, 
Schuylkill county, Pa., May 12, 1856. They 
have five children : Verdilla, Clara, Cloyd, 
Mary, and Herbert, all fine, healthy chil- 
dren. Mr. Wallace is a member of the Lu- 
theran church. He is a Democrat, but 
having been content to follow out his own 
business plans, has never sought political 
preferment. 



Wallace, Samuel T., boot and shoe 
dealer, Lykens, Pa., was born at Lykens, 
September 13, 1862; son of John J. and 
Elizabeth Wallace, and brother of William 
L. He attended the schools of Lykens un- 
til he was nineteen, receiving a thorough 
education. He was graduated with honors 
in the spring of 1881. 

Mr. S. T. Wallace began his business life 
as brakeman on the Northern Central rail- 
way, between Renovo and Harrisburg, and 
was thus employed for seven years. Then 
returning to Lykens, he became proprietor 
of the Glenn House, a well-known hotel of 
that place. Two years later he went to 
Philadelphia, where for five years he was 
conductor on an electric street railway. He 



resigned this place, in December, 1895, and 
embarked in the boot and shoe trade at 
Lykens. His recognized business ability, 
agreeable manners and accommodating 
spirit have made him both popular and suc- 
cessful. 

Samuel T. Wallace was married, at Lykeus, 
February 2, 1883, to Emma Klinger, born at 
Lykens in July, 1864. They have one child, 
C. Lee, born March 7, 1884. Both are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church. Mr. Wallace 
is a Democrat. He belongs to Wiconisco 
Lodge, No. 533, I. 0. 0. F., of Lykens. 
He stands high in business and social circles, 
is a good citizen and a first-class neighbor. 



Miller, Samuel, senior partner of the 
firm of Miller & Heilner, general merchants, 
Wiconisco, Pa., was born in Sunbury, Pa., 
December 3, 1833. His father, Charles H. 
Miller, was born in York county, Pa. In his 
younger days he was a contractor for canal 
and railroad work. He also kept a hotel in 
Harrisburg for a number of years. Later 
he removed to Lykens, where he died in 
1872. He married Mary Boucher, a native of 
Sunbury, who died in Lykens. They had 
seven children : Edward, deceased ; Sophia 
J., wife of J. H. Foster, of Lykens ; Samuel ; 
Henry C, of Danville; Barbara, widow of 
Hiram Bueck ; William P., deceased ; B. F., 
of Wiconisco. Mr. Miller was a- Republican. 
He was a member of the Lutheran church. 

Samuel Miller is a self-educated man. He 
attended the public schools for only a short 
time when he was a small boy. He worked 
among the farmers, earning from twenty-five 
to fifty cents a day. When he was fourteen 
years old he was clerk in a store in Lykens, 
receiving $2.75 per week, and paying his 
own board. He was for two years in this 
position, after which he took a contract for 
making a road in the upper part of the 
county, in connection with his father. After 
some months' work on this contract he 
worked one year at railroading in New Jer- 
sey. He then returned to Lykens and 
worked two years as a blacksmith for the 
Lykens Valley Railroad Company. Then 
he was clerk in a store at Lykens for four 
years, and spent four years more with Bar- 
rett & Bloom, and for twenty-seven years he 
has conducted a general mercantile business 
at Wiconisco. He has built up a large trade 
and has the most extensive mercantile estab- 
lishment in Lykens Valley. Associated with 
him as a silent partner is Rev. S. A. Heilner, 



• - ■ 



1172 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



of Philadelphia, minister of the Methodist 
church. Mr. Miller opened a branch store 
in 1881 in Lykens and conducted the busi- 
ness there until 1888, when he sold it to his 
sons, Charles H. and Jacob M. Miller. 

In 1856 Samuel Miller was married, at 
Lykens, to Rebecca Mann, born in Chester 
county, Pa., in 1836, of Welsh descent. They 
have had nine children : Annie L., wife of 
W. J. Simpson ; W. Howard, who died at 
the age of four years ; Jennie; Charles H., 
merchant at Lykens ; Jacob M., bicycle 
dealer ; Rebecca ' E.; Carrie L., died in in- 
fancy ; Samuel PL, attending Dickinson Col- 
lege ; and Mary M. 

Mr. Miller is a Republican. He was a 
school director for two terms, during part of 
which time he was president of the board. 
He is an advocate of compulsory education. 
He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
church, a Sunday-school teacher and super- 
intendent, and has been trustee of the church 
from early manhood. He w r as for about five 
years a director of the Miners' Deposit 
Bank. Few men are more widely or favor- 
ably known in the town or valle} r , and none 
are more highly esteemed. He is genial and 
popular. 

Mr. Miller enlisted for three months at 
Harrisburg, in March, 1863, in company D, 
Twenty-sixth Pennsjdvania volunteers, un- 
der Colonel Jennings. He is a member of 
Ashler Lodge, No. 570, F. & A. M., Wico- 
nisco, and has been a member of the. Odd 
Fellows. 

Charles H. Miller, son of Samuel Miller, 
is a general merchant at Lykens, where he 
was born Februaiy 18, 1865. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools. At sixteen 
years of age he entered his father's store as 
clerk and remained with the firm until 
1888, when he and his brother Jacob M. 
bought out the firm of Miller & Heilner, 
and carried on the business under the firm 
name of Miller Bros, for seven years. In 
1895 Charles H. Miller purchased his 
brother's interest and has since conducted 
the business in his own name. Mr. Charles 
H. Miller is a Republican. He is a member 
of the Knights of Pythias at Lykens. He 
is a promising and popular young business 
man with a bright future before him. 

Jacob M., second living son of Samuel 
Miller, was born at Lykens, November 18, 
1868. The removal of the family to Wico- 
nisco took place when he was one year old 
His entire education was acquired in the 



public schools of that place. After leaving 
school he was clerk in his father's store for a 
year, and for two years after in a branch 
store at Lykens. In 1888 he and his brother 
Charles H. purchased the above mentioned 
business at Lykens and conducted it under 
the firm name of Miller Bros, until October 
16, 1895, at which date Jacob M. Miller sold 
his interest to his brother, who now con- 
ducts the business. From 1892 until June 
29, 1896, Jacob M. Miller also conducted the 
Lykens Marble Works, and then sold out 
this business also. He is now dealing in bi- 
cycles at Lykens. Mr. Miller is a Republi- 
can. He is a member of Ashler Lodge, No. 
570, F. & A. M., of Wiconisco, and of Lodge 
No. 533, of Lykens. 

Jacob M. Miller was married, June 4, 
1895, at Lykens, to Emma, daughterof Sam- 
uel and Addie Fenn. Mr. Fenn is the late 
editor of the Lykens Register. Mr. Miller 
attends the Methodist Episcopal church. 



Lamey, Philip H, hardware and tinware 
merchant, Wiconisco, Pa., was born in Clin- 
ton county, Pa., March 2, 1836. His father, 
John Lamey, was born in Scotland, and 
came to this country when a young man. 
He settled in Clinton county and en- 
gaged in farming and stock raising. 
He married Elizabeth Kaler, born in Ger- 
many, and brought to this country in early 
youth. They had twelve children: Susan, 
Christian, John, Michael, Philip H, William, 
Elizabeth, Delilah, and four infants that 
died. Mr. Lamey was a Republican. The 
family were members of the United Brethren 
church. Both Mr. and Mrs. Lamey died in 
Clinton county. 

Philip H. Lamey received his early edu- 
cation in the district schools of his native 
count}'. He worked on the farm until he 
was sixteen years old, after which he learned 
the trade of millwright, and followed that 
occupation eleven years. After this he 
worked two years on the Central railroad 
in Centre county, and then six years in the 
coal regions as clerk for George Moulton & 
Co. He came to Wiconisco in 1871 and 
was employed for sixteen years by the Ly- 
kens Valley Coal Company as outside fore- 
man. In 1889 Mr. Lamey purchased the 
business of J. H. Meyers, hardware and tin- 
ware merchant. He has conducted the busi- 
ness since that date, meeting with good suc- 
cess and building up a large trade. 

Philip H. Lamey was married, at Free- 



— 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1173 



burg, Snyder county, Pa., in 1862, to Eliza- 
beth Boyer, born in Liverpool, Perry county, 
Pa. They have three children : Mary, un- 
married; Edward, attending school; and 
Jacob, deceased. Jacob was in the tin- 
ware business for his father. In 1891 he 
went to a medical college at Philadelphia, 
and five days before his graduation day 
lie died from the effects of a cold, April 
13, 1893. He belonged to the Knights of 
the Golden Eagle. 

Mr. Lamey is a Republican, for a year he 
was a school director. He is a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal church, a Sunday- 
school superintendent and teacher. Mr. 
Lamey is a well-known citizen of Wiconisco. 
He is enterprising and prosperous in busi- 
ness, and in social circles is genial and pop- 
ular. 



Mossop, Isaac, junior partner and business 
manager of Kimm el & Mossop, hosiery man- 
ufacturers, Wiconisco, Pa., was born at Raven- 
glass, England, October 28, 1860. His father, 
Henry Mossop, was a native of England, and 
was a butcher. He married Jane Sharp, of 
Scotch descent. They had nine children : 
William, residing in Salt Lake City, Utah; 
Mary, deceased, wife of John Shaw, of Eng- 
land; Elizabeth, wife of J. Studholme, 
Tower City, Pa.; Isaac; Fanny, wife of Will- 
iam Dewfall, England ; Annie J., Henry, 
John, and Thomas, died young. Mr. and 
Mrs. Henry Mossop died in England. 

Isaac Mossop received a common school 
education in his native country. He began 
his business life by working as a farmer's 
boy, receiving sixpence a day and his board. 
After six months of this employment he 
worked four years as a carpenter and joiner. 
He was next employed by a railroad corn- 
pan}' as a shipping clerk. In 1881 he came 
to the United States on the steamship City 
of Montreal, landed at New York, and came 
to Philadelphia. He spent a week there, 
then went to Tower City, and worked four 
and a half years as a laborer in the mines. 
He afterwards went into the confectionery 
business in Tower City, and continued in 
this business three years, meeting with suc- 
cess. In 1889 he came to Wiconisco, and in 
connection with the late A. F. Kimm el, built 
a large factory, and equipped it with ma- 
chines for the manufacture of seamless hose, 
expending $5,000 in furnishing the plant 
and making it one of the most complete and 



convenient establishments in that line of 
work. The firm employs 120 hands, and 
pays $1,500 per month in wages, producing 
goods which find a ready market in all parts 
of the country. Since Mr. Kiminel's death, 
Mr\ Mossop is the general manager and su- 
perintendent of every department of the 
business. 

Isaac Mossop was married, in Tower City, 
January 16, 1883, to Violet Jenkins, born in 
Tamaqua, Pa., May 19, 1858 ; daughter of 
John and Matilda Jenkins, the former was 
killed during the Civil war. They have no 
children. 

Mr. Mossop is a Republican. He is a 
member of Ashler Lodge, No. 570, F. & A. 
M., and of Lodge No. 755, I. O. O. F., Tower 
City. In the planning and operating of his 
magnificent factory, and in the successful 
management of the establishment, Mr. 
Mossop has displayed great business ability. 
His enterprising spirit and progressive 
methods are recognized and admired, while 
his genial nature and kindly manners make 
him most agreeable in social life. Mr. Mos- 
sop is a director of the Miners' Deposit Bank 
of Lykens ; a director of the Williams Valley 
Railroad Company and treasurer of the Wico- 
nisco Dye and Manufacturing Company. 



Cheistman, Charles D., M. D., physician 
and surgeon, Wiconisco, Pa., was born in 
Kutztown, Berks county, Pa., January 29, 
1857. His grandfather, Daniel D. Christ- 
man, was of Scotch-Irish descent, and was a 
merchant of Montgomery county, Pa. Silas 
Christman, father of Dr. Christman, was 
born in Montgomery county. In his younger 
days he was a stone cutter and was engaged 
in contract work. He was one of the builders 
of the Dauphin bridge. In later years lie 
was a music teacher. He had great musical 
talent; was a leader in church singing and 
an organist. For thirty years he filled the 
office of justice of the peace in Montgomery 
and Berks counties Mr. Christman mar- 
ried Telima Jordan, of English descent, 
They had six children : Percival, deceased; 
Sarah, wife of John Gerhart, farmer, Mont- 
gomery county ; James, carriage maker, 
Bucks county ; Dr. Charles D.; Annie, 
wife of T. Shaw, shoe dealer, Philadelphia; 
Mary, wife of A. F. Styer, manager of Boltz 
& Clyman's cigar factory, Philadelphia. 
The father died in 1S89, the mother in 1884. 



1174 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



They were members of the Reformed church. 
Mr. Christman was a Democrat. 

Charles D. Christman attended the public 
schools of Kutztown, Berks county. At 
fourteen years of age he entered Perkiomen 
Seminary, at Pennsburg, Pa., and at the 
close of a five years' course was graduated 
with honors. He then taught school for one 
term. Mr. Christman then spent one year in 
the drug store of Dr. Bobb, of East Green- 
ville, at the same time reading medicine 
under Dr. Bobb. After a course of two years 
of study at the College of Pharmacy, in Phila- 
delphia, during which time he was engaged 
in the pharmacy of Dr. David T. Brown, 29 
Ridge avenue, Philadelphia, he was grad- 
uated with the class of 1880. Dr. Christman 
then came to Wiconisco and was in the drug 
store of Kneiffer & Diefenderfer for three 
years, at the same time reading medicine. 
He was graduated from the College of 
Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Md., 
in 1885, and returned to Wiconisco and took 
up the practice of medicine. In 1886 the 
Doctor returned to Baltimore and took a 
special course on the treatment of the dis- 
eases of women, and of the eye, ear and 
throat, and similar complaints; also in gen- 
eral surgical operations. He also, in Phila- 
delphia in 1892, took the special course for 
the treatment of catarrh. In 1893 he took 
the appliances of the 0. E. Miller hernia 
treatment, and has made a specialty of this 
cure. The Doctor has built up a practice 
extending throughout the State, and is 
visited by hundreds of patients from places 
near and far. Dr. Christman is also inter- 
ested in other branches of business. He is 
a partner with W. H. Clay Keen in a drug 
store, with which is connected a hardware 
department. 

Dr. Christman has the diplomas of eight 
schools and colleges, and is well versed in 
professional knowledge. He is a man of 
sound judgment, wide information and great 
enterprise and industry. He is also de- 
servedly popular as a gentleman of genial 
manner. 

He was married, in Reading, Pa., Decem- > 
ber 31, 1885, to Lizzie Krum, of Missouri. 
They have three children ; Florence M., 
Harry, and Charles. Dr. Christman is a Re- 
publican. He is a charter member of Ashler 
Lodge, No. 755, F. & A. M., and is always 
open-handed in works of benevolence. He 
helped many of his fellow-students at college 
who had need of financial assistance. 



Lenker, John N, physician and surgeon, 
Wiconisco, Pa., was born in Northumberland 
county, Pa., July 31, 1865. Jacob Lenker, 
father of John N. Lenker, and son of John 
Lenker, was also born in Northumberland 
county, in 1833. He married Sarah Bona- 
witz, who died in 1869. Mr. Jacob Lenker 
died in the same year as his wife. 

John N. Lenker lived with his uncle for a 
few years. At the age of fourteen he went to 
live with Dr. Kautz, of Berrysburg, where 
he attended school. He taught school for 
two years in Northumberland county and at 
Carsonville, Dauphin county. He read 
medicine under Dr. Kautz, and was gradu- 
ated from the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons, Baltimore, Md., in 1886, with 
honors. He spent nine months as an 
" interne " at Bay View Hospital, Baltimore. 
In 1887 Dr. Lenker returned to Berrysburg, 
and practiced there in partnership with his 
former preceptor, Dr. Kautz, for three years. 
Since 1890 he has been in practice at Wico- 
nisco, and has been in every way successful. 

Dr. John N. Lenker was married, at Se- 
linsgrove, Snyder county, Pa., October 7, 
1889, to a native of that county, Sallie E., 
daughter of Isaac Burns, of Scotch and Ger- 
man descent, a contractor and builder. Dr. 
and Mrs. Lenker have no children. Dr. 
Lenker is a Republican. He is a member of 
the Lutheran church, general council, at 
Lykens, and is a trustee of that church. 
The Doctor is well established in his practice 
and is doing his share of work not only in 
healing the diseases of the people, but in 
guiding them into better knowledge and 
more perfect observance of the lawsof health. 



Jones, Col. William W., train dispatcher 
and yardmaster, Summit Branch railroad, 
Lykens, Pa., was born at Llandilo, Caermar- 
thenshire, Wales, August 22, 1827. His 
father, John J. Jones, was also born in 
Wales, where he spent his younger days as 
keeper for the estate of Lord De Never. In 
1829 he embarked at Swansea on a sailing 
vessel for the United States. After a long 
voyage he landed at Millsvillage, Nova 
Scotia, where he spent one year. From 
there he came to Philadelphia, and after a 
year's stay in that city removed to Pottsville 
and worked for a time at shoemaking. He 
was also employed five years by the Brooks 
Coal Company. He taught school in Potts- 
ville and died there in 1860. He was mar- 
ried, in Wales, to Mary Jenkins. They had 



Hi 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1175 



nine children: John, died in Wales; Ann, 
William W., Jane, Eliza, Amelia, Benja- 
min Franklin, John (2), deceased, and two 
children that died in infancy. Mrs. Jones 
died in 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Jones were 
members of the Methodist Episcopal church. 
He was an old line Whig ; he was a good 
citizen and an industrious and worth} 7 man. 

William W. Jones attended the common 
schools at Pottsville and worked as a gar- 
dener in his boyhood. When he was eleven 
years old he left home with all he owned 
tied up in a bandanna handkerchief. He 
found employment on the Schuylkill canal 
as a hand on a canal boat for three years. 
He then returned to Pottsville and obtained 
the position of " printer's devil " with R. M. 
Palmer, editor of the Pottsville Emporium, 
and remained in that position until 1847. 
He learned carpentry in Schuylkill county 
and was employed for two years in building 
coal breakers. 

Mr. Jones was next employed by the 
Lykens Valley Coal Company at Lykens. in 
the capacity of' carpenter and foreman in the 
car building and repair shops, for seven 
years. In 1852 he became brakeman on the 
Lykens Valley railroad and was promoted 
first to fireman and then to engineer on that 
road. In 1869 he was made a commissioner 
to construct a State road in Schuylkill and 
Dauphin counties, from Tower City to 
Keffers ; and in 1872 was given the position 
of yardmaster and train dispatcher. He has 
since held that position, giving the utmost 
satisfaction to the company and gaining 
great credit for himself. In his long service 
of forty-four years with the company Colonel 
Jones has filled many positions, from the 
lowest to the highest and most responsible, 
and in all of them he has displayed the same 
excellencies and virtues — intelligence, fidel- 
ity, industry and probity. His employers 
value his services and esteem the man, and 
his fellow-workmen recognize his worth and 
render him due esteem. All regard him as 
an upright man and a valuable citizen. 

Colonel Jones enlisted at Harrisburg in 
June, 1863, in company D, Twenty-sixth 
Pennsylvania volunteers, Captain Pell and 
Colonel Jennings, for three months' service. 
He was discharged in September, 1863, at 
Harrisburg. 

He was married, in 1852, to Annie Shan- 
non, born in Palo Alto, Schuylkill county, 
in 1831, daughter of Philip Shannon, a na- 
tive of the State and a railroad man. Their 



children are : Elsie, wife of D. W. Day, rail- 
road conductor, residing at Millersburg, has 
four children, two deceased ; Katie, deceased ; 
Georgiana, wife of Albert Yeader, miner, 
Lykens, Pa.; Harriet, John E., and William 
Howard, all deceased ; Benjamin Franklin, 
railroadman; Victoria W., deceased; Bertha 
Nevada, deceased, wife of William Lehman, 
also deceased. 

Colonel Jones is one of the original Re- 
publicans of Dauphin county. He was for- 
merly a Whig. He has served as school di- 
rector. In 1869 he was a candidate on the 
Independent ticket, opposing Hon. Donald 
Cameron, and owing to his personal popu- 
larity he gave that distinguished statesman 
and politician a close fight, polling a very 
large vote. Workingmen recognize him as 
one of their number, in sympathy with 
them and a safe leader and counsellor. Al- 
though of foreign blood and birth he is a 
thorough and loyal American, deprecating 
all separation of citizens into classes and par- 
ties by any line of political, social or re- 
ligious rank, and in favor of all measures 
that will develop a broad and genuine 
Americanism. Colonel Jones is the sole sur- 
vivor of the charter members of Wiconisco 
Lodge, No. 535, I. 0. 0. F., at Lykens. He 
is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
church at Lykens and the organizer of its 
Sunday-school. He is in good health and 
presents a fine example of an active and 
useful life crowned by a comfortable and 
happy age. 

Reiser, Henry, supply clerk, Lykens 
Valley Coal Companv, was born at Gratz, 
Pa., October 26, 1840. His father, Daniel 
Reiser, was born in Mahanoy Valley, 
Schuylkill county, Pa., in 1821, and was of 
German descent. He attended the subscrip- 
tion schools of the county, and learned the 
trade of tanning. He continued working 
at that trade in Centre and Dauphin coun- 
ties until 1850. In that year he bought a 
hotel at Lykens and conducted it for some 
years. He then bought an eighty -acre farm 
near Wiconisco, now owned by the heirs of 
A. F. Engbert, and cultivated it for a few 
years. In 1866 he sold this farm and 
bought another, containing eighty-seven 
acres, in Williams township. On this farm 
he made extensive and valuable improve- 
ments, building a fine residence, barn and 
outhouses, planting an orchard, making 
roads, etc., at an expense of $11,000. He 



1176 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



also owned a saw mill, manufactured and 
dealt in lumber, with which he supplied the 
mines, and manufactured powder in the 
Glen Valley. Mr. Daniel Keiser was a Re- 
publican ; he represented Dauphin county 
in the State Legislature from 1863 to 1865. 
He married Elizabeth Matter, born in Ly- 
kens Valley in 1820. They had eight chil- 
dren : Henry ; Maria, wife of Joseph Dun- 
lap, butcher, Lykens; William, farmer in 
Delaware; Elizabeth, wife of Levi Work- 
man, manager coal mines, West Virginia; 
Susan A., wife of E. H. Wilson, machinist, 
Baltimore, Md. ; George, died at the age of 
seventeen ; John and Catherine, died young. 
Mrs. Daniel Keiser died at Lykens in 1852. 

Mr. Keiser was married again, in 1853, to 
Amanda Zerby, a native of Lykens Valley, 
by whom he had twelve children : Ellen, 
wife of Lewis Jackson, of West Virginia; 
Daniel, a miner; Morris, merchant, North- 
umberland county, Pa.; Edward, miner, 
Lykens; Samuel, a miner of Lykens; Alice, 
resides in Williamstown, Pa. Their other 
children died in infancy. Mr. Keiser was a 
member of the Lutheran church. He died 
in 1877. He was enterprising and very 
progressive ; was prominent in business, in 
politics, and in all social matters; was very 
popular and highly respected. 

Henry Keiser attended school in Centre 
county, and in Elizabethville, Dauphin 
county, receiving a good common school 
education. At the age of seventeen he en- 
tered the printing office of Daniel Hoffman, 
where he was employed until, in April, 1861, 
he enlisted at Lykens for three months' 
service in company E, Tenth Pennsylvania 
volunteers, Capt. E. G. Savage, and his regi- 
ment formed part of General Patterson's 
division. He was mustered into the service 
at Harrisburg, and spent his three months 
in the field. At the expiration of his term, 
in July, he was again employed in the print- 
ing office until he re-enlisted at Lykens, in 
September, 1861. He was mustered at Potts- 
ville into company G, Ninety-sixth Pennsyl- 
vania, volunteers, Col. H. L. Cake, Capt. F. 
J. Dowden, of Lykens. Mr. Keiser was in 
the battles of West Point, the Seven Days' 
Fight, South Mountain, Gettysburg, Freder- 
icksburg, battle of the Wilderness, Cold Har- 
bor, Spottsylvania (May 10 and 12, 1864), 
Shenandoah Valley, and Cedar Creek. In 
this last battle he was wounded in the right 
hip by a ball, in consequence of which he 
was six weeks off duty ; he then rejoined his 



regiment in the field. He was present at the 
surrender of General Lee, in April, 1865, 
and at the grand review of the troops at 
Washington, D. C, and was mustered out of 
the service in July, 1865. Returning to 
L3dcens, he resumed work in the printing 
office, where he was employed until 1873. 
In this year he was engaged as supply clerk 
by the Lykens Valley Coal Company. This 
responsible position he has held for the 
last quarter of a century, performing its 
duties with the utmost satisfaction to the 
company and the highest credit to himself. 

Henry Keiser was married, in March, 
1864, at Harrisburg, while on furlough, to 
Sarah Workman, born in Williams Valley, 
in January, 1841; daughter of Joseph Work- 
man, a miner, and Catherine, his wife. Mr. 
and Mrs. Keiser have ten children : Anzella 
V., wife of Joseph Dodd, miner, at Lykens; 
William, a miner ; Daisy B., unmarried ; 
Austin, miner, Lykens; Claude, a clerk with 
the Lykens Valley Coal Company ; Cora and 
Harry, attending school; Joseph, Arthur, 
and Moses, all died in infancy. 

Mr. Keiser is a Republican. He has been 
a school director for nine years in Wiconisco 
township, and was elected to the same posi- 
tion in the borough of Lykens in 1896 for 
three years. He has always taken a deep 
interest in school matters, and is in favor of 
compulsory education. He takes an active 
part in religious movements, and is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. 
Keiser is a man of pleasing personality, is 
always well dressed and agreeable in man- 
ners. Both employers and employees like 
him, and he is popular with all classes. 



Smith, Henry, locomotive engineer, Ly- 
kensand Summit Branch Railroad Company, 
now Central Pennsyl van iaRailroadCompany, 
Lykens, was born in Washington township, 
Dauphin county, Pa., April 6, 1843. His 
father, Daniel Smith, was born in Northum- 
berland county, Pa., in 1810. He was a car- 
penter, and was also engaged in farming in 
Washington township, Dauphin county. He 
married Catherine Runk, born in that town- 
ship. Their children are: Daniel R., farmer, 
on homestead, Washington township; Jona- 
than, carpenter, Williamstown, Pa.; James, 
carpenter, Williamstown, Pa.; Hiram, car- 
penter, Elizabethville, Pa.; Adam, was a sol- 
dier, lost his life in the battle of Lookout 
Mountain ; Thomas, of Elizabethville, de- 
ceased ; Katie, wife of Samuel Earhart, Har- 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1177 



risburg, Pa., and Frank, freight conductor, 
Sunbury, Pa. Mrs. Smith died at the home- 
stead in Washington township. The second 
wife of Mr. Smith was Eliza Rechstamer; 
they had no children. Mr. Smith died at 
Elizabeth ville. He was a Democrat of the 
old school, and a member of the Lutheran 
church. 

Henry Smith obtained a good common 
school education in the schools of Elizabeth- 
ville. He grew up on the farm, and was en- 
gaged in farm work until he was twenty-one. 
In 1864 he entered the employ of the Sum- 
mit Branch Railroad Company, and was a 
brakeman on a coal train for four years. He 
was then fireman for twenty-two months. In 
1870 he was promoted to engineer, and has 
served in that position for the past twenty- 
six years, meeting with only one accident in 
that long term of service. 

Henry Smith was married, in Jackson 
township, in 1865, to Catherine, daughter of 
Philip Enders, and sister of G.W. D. Enders, 
of Fisherville. She was born in Jackson 
township, August 18, 1842. They have three 
children: Alice, born June, 1865, died in 
July, 1865 ; Harper L., born in 1868, died 
May 26, 1884; Harry E., born May 1, 1870, 
fireman on Northern Central railroad. Mr. 
Smith is a member of the Lutheran church, 
to which he is a large contributor. He is a 
trustee of the church, and a member of its 
building committee and church council. His 
politics are Democratic. 

In 1893 Mr. Harry E. Smith married Miss 
Minnie S. Chupp. They have two children, 
Eldred Burnett, born in 1893, and Pauline 
B., born in 1895. 



Hooper, Rev. Philip Stansbury, pastor 
of Zion Lutheran church, of Lykens, Pa., 
was born in Fannettsburg, Franklin county, 
Pa., September 11, 1834. His father, Joshua 
Hooper, was born in Frederick county, Md., 
and was a blacksmith. He married Cathe- 
rine Zeigler,born near Chambersburg, Frank- 
lin county. Their children are: Philip 
Stansbury; Rebecca, wife of A. Van Scoyoc, 
farmer, Tyrone, Pa.; James, Isaac, John, 
William, Henry, Susan, and Molly, all de- 
ceased, except Philip Stansbury, and Rebecca. 
Mr. Hooper was a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal church. He died in Altoona, Pa., 
in 1861 ; his wife had died in May, 1860. 

Philip Stansbury Hooper received bis 
primary education in subscription schools 
and in the public schools of Blair county, 



Pa. In 1850 he began learning the black- 
smith trade with his father, and worked at 
the anvil until he was twenty-one years old. 
At this age he left the paternal roof, and was 
for two years employed in the railroad shops 
at Altoona, Pa., as an iron worker. He saved 
his earnings with the view of acquiring a 
liberal education, and made a reputation as 
an industrious young man with high and 
worthy aims. His pastor, who was always 
planning for his young friend, obtained for 
him a position in the postofhce, which he 
gladly accepted. Soon a way was opened 
for him to enter the preparatory department 
of Pennsylvania College. Pursuing the 
course of studies there with untiring dili- 
gence, he reached the Sophomore class, when, 
for lack of means, he was compelled to leave 
college and seek remunerative employment 
for a year. When ready to resume college 
studies, he was influenced by certain consid- 
erations of a pecuniary nature to enter the 
Sophomore class of Wittenberg College at 
Springfield, Ohio, where he was graduated 
in 1861, and where he subsequently took the 
full theological course. 

Upon the completion of this course Mr. 
Hooper was licensed by the Miami Synod to 
preach the gospel, and a year later was or- 
dained to the ministry of the Lutheran 
church by the West Pennsylvania Synod, 
holding its convention at Newville, Pa. 
His first work was at Carlisle Springs, Cum- 
berland county, Pa. This was during the 
darkest hours of the late Civil war, and 
being settled near the border he had to do 
his work amid many discouragements. The 
salary of $400 kept him poor, if it did not 
keep him humble. 

During his pastorate at Carlisle Springs 
Rev. Philip S. Hooper was married, at 
Springfield, Ohio, to Miss Sallie O, only 
daughter of Levi and Frances Louisa Lath- 
rop. She was prominent in society and 
church circles in Springfield and a graduate 
of the Presbyterian Female Seminary of that 
city. They had two children : Stella, wife 
of I. J. Long, a sketch of whom appears in 
this volume; and Mary Florence, who died 
at six years of age. 

In 1864 Mr. Hooper accepted a call to the 
church in Martinsburg, Pa., where he re- 
mained several years and removed thence 
to New Philadelphia, thence to Findlay, 
and thence to Bellefontaine, all in Ohio. 
At the last-named place, in conjunction with 
others, he founded the Lutheran Evangelist, 



1178 



BIO GRA PHICA L ENCYCL OPEDIA 



now a prosperous church paper. He became 
foreman and office manager, assisted in set- 
ting the first type, and made up the first 
forms of this paper, which was established 
as a Western church paper. From this 
work he was called to Trinity church, Sha- 
mokin, Pa., where he stayed longer than 
any of his predecessors in that pastorate. 
Subsequently he" served pastorates at Stone 
Church, Phoenixville, and Clearfield, Pa. 

In 1882, owing to the state of his wife's 
health, Mr. Hooper removed with the family 
to Philadelphia in order to place her under 
the immediate care of her favorite physician. 
During his stay in that city he was office 
manager of the Industrial Review and the 
International Review, at that time published 
b}' a company of experienced journalists. 
When Mrs. Hooper's health improved he 
accepted a call to the Central Lutheran 
church of Phoenixville, where they worked 
successfully, and where they spent the most 
delightful portion of their married life. Rev. 
Mr. Hooper removed from Phoenixville to 
Clearfield, and from that place to Lykens, 
Pa., where he is now (1896) located. He 
entered upon his duties here on the first 
Lord's Day in 1890. In the following year 
the cornerstone of a new church edifice was 
laid, the old structure having become in- 
adequate to the needs of the congregation 
and Sunday-school. 

In the work connected with the erection 
of this building, as well as in all the duties 
of his ministry, Mr. Hooper's wife was, un- 
der God, his guide, his helpmeet and strong 
right arm. Upon her he leaned in his 
hours of trial ; to her he went for counsel ; 
upon her advice he was always disposed to 
act, and in her judgment he implicitly 
trusted. In matters theological and eccle- 
siastical she was well informed and was 
perfectly familiar with the work of her de- 
nomination. The needs of the Lord's vine- 
yard in this age of marvellous opportunity 
stirred her soul and kindled within her the 
fire of intense missionary zeal. Her death, 
which occurred in Philadelphia, May 31, 
1895, at the age of fifty years, brought sad- 
ness to many hearts throughout the church, 
and left the parsonage home in the gloom 
of night. The workers in the broader circles 
of church and denominational enterprise 
deeply felt her loss. The " In Memoriam " 
read at the tenth annual convention of the 
Women's Home and Foreign Missionary 
Society, of East Pennsylvania Synod, con- 



tains an expression of the high esteem in 
which she was held by those best acquainted 
with her tireless industry and ceaseless ef- 
forts, her womanly tact and skill in minis- 
tering to the happiness and to the spiritual 
needs of all about her. 

As a preacher Rev. Mr. Hooper is clear, 
forceful and practical, and it follows, effec- 
tive. As a church worker the results of his 
labors demonstrate his ability and faithful- 
ness. As a man the value of his work in 
the community is recognized by all citizens, 
and he is popular with all, because all feel 
the genuineness of his character and the 
broad charity of his spirit. 



Long, Irwin J., son-in-law of Rev. P. S. 
Hooper, was born at his grandfather's farm, 
near Jonestown, Lebanon county, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 6, 1869. He is a son of Adam C. and 
Elizabeth (Lebo) Long. In the fall of 1870, 
when he was not quite two years old, his 
parents removed to Wiconisco, Dauphin 
county, Pa., where he spent his boyhood, re- 
ceiving his education in the public schools. 
In 1881 the family removed to Lykens, Pa., 
where his education was continued in the 
borough schools and he was graduated in the 
high school class of 1885, being the first male 
graduate of the school. 

Mr. Long was elected assistant teacher in 
the grammar schools of the borough in 1885, 
and taught four years, during which time he 
was engaged in the music, book, and station- 
ery business with his father, under the firm 
name of Long & Son. He w r as the local cor- 
respondent and representative of the Harris- 
burg Morning Call also, during these years. 
In August, 1891, he sold his interest in the 
business here to his father, and went into the 
same line of business in Salem, Va. 

Irwin J. Long was married, March 8, 1892, 
in Zion Lutheran church, Lykens, to Miss 
Stella R., daughter of Rev. P. S. Hooper. Mr. 
Long returned with his bride to Salem, Va., 
and shortly afterwards bought the interest of 
Edward Jeter in the Salem Saturday Sun, a 
weekly newspaper; assumed editorial charge 
of the paper April 25, 1892, put the paper on 
a substantial basis, owning its own plant, and 
in August, 1892, bought the interest of the 
other original proprietor, T. A. Johnson, thus 
becoming sole owner of paper and plant. 

After a period of prosperous business Mr. 
Long discontinued the publication of the 
Saturday Sun, and in December, 1892, re- 
moved his printing plant to Roanoke, Va., 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1179 



formed a co-partnership with J. T. Hall and 
J. C. Hill, under the firm name of The En- 
terprise Printing and Manufacturing Com- 
pany, of which he became secretary and 
treasurer. This company owned and pub- 
lished three periodicals : The Iron Belt, a 
monthly trade journal, devoted to mining, 
railroad, iron and steel interests, of which 
Mr. Long was editor ; The Roanoke Metho- 
dist, a weekly paper devoted to the interests 
of Methodism, in Roanoke in particular, and 
the South in general ; and Words and Works, 
a weekly paper devoted to the interests of 
Presbyterianism in the same territory. These 
gentlemen also composed the Southern Rub- 
ber Stamp Company, and manufactured rub- 
ber stamps, dies, seals, etc. Mr. Long was 
secretary and treasurer of this company also. 
On March 11, 1893, the partnership was 
dissolved by mutual consent, Mr. Long re- 
taining as his share the printing plant and 
Words and Works. He continued the pub- 
lication of this periodical until August, 
1894, at the same time owning and conduct- 
ing the third largest job printing office in 
the city of Roanoke. During most of this 
time he also served on the editorial staff of 
the Roanoke Evening World. On September 
5, 1894, he removed to Lykens, Pa., and on 
November 5, 1894, he concluded negotia- 
tions with Samuel M. Fenn, proprietor of the 
Lykens Register, by which he entered upon 
the ownership and management of that 
paper. 

The Lykens Register is the successor of the 
Farmers' and Miyiers' Journal, the first paper 
published in upper Dauphin county, its first 
issue being dated August 16, 1856. It was 
published by an association with Dr. J. B. 
Hower as editor and S. B. Coles as publisher. 
It was suspended in October, 1861, by its 
owner, George W. Buehler, by reason of four 
of its employees having enlisted in the army, 
three of whom died in defense of their 
country. The office passed into the hands 
of S. B. Coles, who published the Business 
Man's Journal until August 1, 1865, when 
Capt. G. W. Fenn purchased a half interest 
in the concern, and formed the firm of Coles 
& Fenn, which published the Upper Dauphin 
Register and Lykens Valley Miner until No- 
vember 18, 1868, when S. M. Fenn became 
proprietor, and in 1872 changed its name to 
Lykens Register. On November 5, 1894, it 
was purchased by Mr. Long, and is now 
under his management. The paper has 
been greatly improved during his ownership, 



and is now a neatly gotten up thirty-two 
column home printed weekly journal, unsur- 
passed by any local paper in the county. Its 
specialty is local and Upper End news, of 
which it contains more than can be found in 
any other journal. 

Mr. Long has fine musical talent and 
taste, and has been especially successful as a 
choir master and musical conductor. Under 
his management several cantatas have been 
presented in the Lykens opera house by 
home talent. For one year he was the mu- 
sical director of St. Mark's Lutheran church, 
Roanoke, Va., having under his baton one 
of the finest choirs of that city. He had 
charge of the music at the dedication of their 
magnificent $60,000 cut stone house of wor- 
ship in May, 1894. He is at present musical 
director of Zion Lutheran Sunday-school at 
Lykens. 



Bauer, Frank J., boiler inspector for the 
Lykens and Summit Branch Railroad Com- 
pany, was born at St. Louis, Mo., June 13, 
1861. His father, John Bauer, was born at 
Canton, Ohio, in 1841 ; son of John F. 
Bauer, of Germany, and a wine grower in 
Illinois. He worked with his parents in 
the vineyards and at distilling, and was also 
a coppersmith. He was afterwards travel- 
ing salesman for a St. Louis clothing house, 
and was hurt in a railroad accident at Butte 
City, from the effects of which he died in 
189 L. He married Pauline Hultzman, born 
near St. Louis in 1844, of English parent- 
age. They had six children : Alonzo F., 
engineer of the Santa Fe railroad, Fort 
Madison, Iowa; Frank J.; Albert, employed 
on the staff of the Topeka, Kan., State 
Journal; Edward, bridge builder for the 
King Bridge Company, Topeka, Kan.; 
Annie, wife of Dr. W. E. McVay, professor 
in Kansas State Medical College ; Katie, 
wife of John Boltz, Topeka, passenger con- 
ductor on Santa Fe railroad. The mother 
resides in Topeka, Kan., and is a member 
of the Episcopal church. John Bauer was 
a popular man, a Presbyterian, and a Re- 
publican in politics. 

Frank J. Bauer received a limited educa- 
tion. When he was thirteen he began an ap- 
prenticeship of seven years at boiler mak- 
ing in the railroad shops at St. Louis. He 
was to receive fifty-five cents per day for the 
first three years, of which five cents was 
deducted every day to give him a start in 
business after he had learned his trade. He 



1180 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



had to stand on a block of wood in order to 
reach the top anvil and to strike the iron. 
His seven years' apprenticeship ended, he 
worked as a journeyman in the railroad 
shops at Topeka, Kan., for the Santa Fe 
.Railroad Company, and received as wages 
$2.75 per day. He remained there for two 
years, and then went to Raton, New Mexico, 
as boiler inspector for the Santa Fe Railroad 
Company, at $125 per month and expenses. 

After spending five years in this position 
he came, in 1885, to Wilkes-Barre, Pa., where 
he was employed by the Lehigh and Wilkes- 
Barre Coal Company as inspector of their 
boilers. After being for some time in that 
position he was for eight months in the em- 
ploy of the Dixon Manufacturing Company 
as foreman of boiler shops. He then worked 
for one year for the Lehigh Valley Railroad 
Company. In 1889 Mr. Bauer obtained his 
present position with the Lykens and Sum- 
mit Branch railroad, which he has filled 
since that date with entire satisfaction to the 
company and with great credit to himself. 
Besides being a skilled mechanic, thoroughly 
acquainted with his business, he is a man of 
character and standing. 

Mr. Bauer was married, at Raton, New 
Mexico, in 1885, to Katora D. Lewis, born in 
Wilkes-Barre in 1863, daughter of John C. 
Lewis, a contractor and miner, of that city. 
They have four children : Kate P., Anita D., 
John F., and Anna, all of whom are living. 
Mr. Bauer is a Republican and takes an ac- 
tive interest in all political movements of 
probable local benefit. He belongs to 
Wilkes-Barre Lodge, No. 867, K. of P.; of 
K. of M. C, and is past commander of both; 
also a member of Lykens Lodge, I. 0. 0. F. 
He is a member of the Methodist Episcojsal 
church and takes an active interest in all 
church matters. Mr. Bauer's high aim and 
indomitable perseverance were abundantly 
manifested in his determined efforts at self- 
improvement. In order to supply the lack 
of early educational advantages he spent his 
evenings in stud}', even when obliged to 
work hard all day. He now enjoys the re- 
wards of his diligence and resolution. 



the blacksmith trade. In 1857 he went on 
the railroad as brakeman, was soon promoted 
to the position of fireman, and remained on 
the road until April 26, 1861, when he and 
Capt. E. G. Savage organized a company and 
entered the army for three months. At the 
expiration of this time he came home and 
re-enlisted in the Ninety-sixth regiment, 
Pennsylvania volunteers, September 17, 
1861 ; served in that regiment until Feb- 
ruary 15, 1864, when he re-enlisted again in 
the field near Culpepper Court House for 
three years in the same regiment, and served 
until May 1, at which time he was wounded 
at the battle of Spottsylvania Court House, 
Va., in the left forearm and left side. He 
was sent the hospital at Washington, D. C, 
and was finally discharged, February 15, 
1865. Upon his return to Lykens he again 
engaged in railroading, and in 1866 was pro- 
moted to the position of engineer, which he 
held until 1870. From that time until 1889 
he ran a hoisting engine. He was ap- 
pointed postmaster of Lykens in that year, 
and still ably fills the office. 



Alvaed, Jacob, postmaster, Lykens, Pa., 
was born in Williams Valley, Dauphin 
county, Pa., March 21, 1837. The family 
moved to Orwigsburg, Schuylkill county, 
in 1846. Alter the death of his mother, 
which occurred in 1853, the family separated, 
and Jacob came back to Lykens and learned 



Hanna, Edwaed C, Lykens, Pa., was born 
in Philadelphia, November 25, 1828 ; son of 
Edward C. and Ann Hanna, natives of Scot- 
land, who settled in Philadelphia. The 
father was a sea captain and followed that 
vocation for many years. Edward C. was 
reared in Philadelphia and acquired his ed- 
ucation in the schools of that city. When 
sixteen years of age he became an appren- 
tice to the carpenter trade and served four 
and a half years, after which he worked at 
the trade in Philadelphia one year, and was 
then for three years with Howard & Co., as 
an express agent on the railroad between 
Philadelphia and Pottsville. Subsequently 
he was in the same capacity on the Shamo- 
kin division of the Pennsylvania railroad, 
and was promoted to assistant superintend- 
ent of the division, and was located at Sun- 
bury for some years. He then became the 
general agent of the Northern Central rail- 
way, at Sunbury, and was the first agent of 
the company at that place and continued for 
two years. He was transferred from there 
to Trevorton, and had charge of the railroad 
accounts and collections for eleven years. In 
1876 he came to Lykens and had charge of 
the collections for thirteen years, and for a 
short time was superintendent of the railroad. 

In 1884 he retired from the railroad and 
embarked in the wholesale flour and feed 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1181 



business. Mr. Hanna was also a director in 
the Lykens Bank for several years, and is a 
stockholder in the Williams Valley railroad. 
In politics he is a Republican, and is a mem- 
ber of the borough council. He is a mem- 
ber of the Sunbury Lodge, No. 22, of the 
Masonic order, and also of the chapter and 
Pilgrim Commandery, at Harrisburg. Mr. 
Hanna was married, in 1852, to Miss Mar- 
garet A. Haas, daughter of Frederick Haas, of 
Northumberland county, and they have two 
children, Alfred F., at Lykens, and Katie H. 
He is a member of the Episcopal church, in 
the affairs of which he takes an active in- 
terest, serving as vestryman of the church. 



Kimmel, Andrew F., merchant, Lykens, 
Pa., was born in Orwigsburg (West Bruns- 
wick), Schuylkill county, Pa., August 30, 
1841; son of Andrew and Esther Kimmel, 
of Schuylkill count}'. The father was a 
farmer by occupation, and in his political 
views was a Republican. He served in the 
office of school director, supervisor, and au- 
ditor. He was a member of the Church of 
of God. His death occurred in 1868, and 
that of his wife in 1863. They had thirteen 
children, Andrew F. being the tenth in the 
order of birth of those who grew to maturity. 

He received his education in the township 
schools, and remained on the farm until he 
was twenty-four years of age, and was then 
for three years in mercantile business in Or- 
wigsburg and Philadelphia. In August, 
1871, he established a general store in Wico- 
nisco, which he has since continued. Mr. 
Kimmel is a director in the Lykens Bank, 
and one of the proprietors of the knitting- 
mill at Wiconisco, which manufactures ho- 
siery and underwear, and he is also inter- 
ested in the Williams Valley railroad. In 
political views he is with the Republican 
party, and has held the office of school di- 
rector, tax collector, etc., of the borough. He 
was married, in 1861, to Miss Margaret S. 
Covener, daughter of George Covener, of 
Columbia county, and to this marriage there 
is no issue. Mr. Kimmel is not connected 
with any church. 



WILLIAMS TOWNSHIP. 



Stites, George M., M. D., was born in 
Millerstown, Perry county, Pa.. March 11, 
1860. He is a son of Dr. Samuel and Cathe- 
rine (Matter) Stites. His father, Dr. Samuel 



Stites, was born in New Jersey. He studied 
medicine and practiced for eight years in 
Fisherville, Dauphin county, and then lo- 
cated in Millerstown, Perry county, Pa. He 
married his first wife in Berks county, Pa. 
They had three children: William, Anna, 
and Sally. Dr. Stites' second marriage was 
in Dauphin county. The children of this 
marriage who are now living are : Harriet, 
residing in Millerstown, Pa.; Lydia, residing 
with her brother, Dr. George M.; Clara, court 
stenographer at Sioux Falls, S. D.; Harry, 
physician, West Palm Beach, Fla.; Albert, 
physician, Sioux Falls, S. D.; and Dr. George 
M. The father died in Millerstown, in 1882, 
aged sixty-two. He was a Republican. He 
was a member of the Perry County Medical 
Society, and was a leading man in his pro- 
fession. Dr. Stites was an active member 
of the Methodist church. He was highly 
esteemed as a man. 

George M. Stites attended the common 
schools of his native place until he was four- 
teen years old. At this age he entered Dick- 
inson Seminary, Williamsport, Pa., and con- 
tinued his studies there until he was seven- 
teen. He then pursued his studies at La- 
fayette College, Easton, for eight months, at 
the end of which time he returned home 
and began the study of medicine with his 
father. After reading under his father for 
three years he entered the College of Physi- 
cians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Md., from 
which he was graduated in 1882. His prac- 
tice of the healing art began in connection 
with his father at Millerstown, Pa., and was 
continued with success for five years. Dur- 
ing part of this time lie practiced alone, his 
father having died. At the end of the five 
years Dr. Stites came to Williamstown, and 
has resided here ever since. He has built up a 
large and lucrative practice, and is in the en- 
joyment of the conditions made possible bj' 
a successful business. His residence is a 
large modern structure with many of the 
latest devised conveniences. 

Dr. Stites is a Republican and takes a lead- 
ing part in the measures of his party. He 
is a member of the Board of Health, a school 
director and a trustee of the Methodist 
church. He is a member and a trustee of 
the Knights of the Golden Eagle, at Lykens; 
a master mason of Ashler Lodge, No. 570. 
at Wiconisco; a member of Knights of 
Pythias Lodge, at Lykens, and of I. 0. 0. F. 
Lodge, at Williamstown. 

Dr. Stites was married, in Millerstown, 



1182 



BIOGRAPHICAL FN CYCLOPEDIA 



November 24, 1887, to Miss Hannah Dur- 
bin, daughter of J. W. and Louisa Durbin. 
They have had five children : Clara; died 
aged five years ; George, died at eighteen 
months of age; Louisa and Joseph, twins, 
and Harry. 



Enders, L. Jay, M. D., physician and sur- 
geon, Williamstown, Pa., was born at Enders, 
Jackson township, Dauphin county, Pa., Feb- 
ruary 17, 1854. He is a son of George and 
Susan (Fetterhoff) Enders. His early edu- 
cation was received in the public schools of 
his native place. When he was fifteen years 
of age he began teaching school in Jackson 
and Jefferson townships, and was thus en- 
gaged for several years. He began the study 
of medicine in the University of Pennsylva- 
nia in 1876-77. He afterwards returned to 
the University and took a post-graduate 
course in 1882. In the meantime he worked 
in the mines and earned and saved money 
with which to meet the cost of his literary 
and professional education. 

Dr. Enders began the practice of his pro- 
fession in Pitman, Schuylkill county, Pa., 
and continued there for five years. He 
demonstrated his professional ability and 
skill, and enjoyed a large and profitable prac- 
tice. About 1886 he located in his native 
town and practiced there until 1891, when 
he removed to Williamstown where he now 
resides and has built up a good practice. 

Dr. Enders was married, at Enders, Pa., 
February 21, 1877, by Rev. G. A. Loose, of 
the United Brethren church, to Miss Annie 
Jane, daughter of Samuel and Leah (Etter) 
Enders. Their children are: Leslie Garfield, 
born in Jackson township, August 6, 1867 ; 
Joseph Sanford,born in Pitman, Pa., May 23, 
1881 ; Jennie Florence, born in Jackson 
township, June 5, 1885 ; Lee Jay, born at 
Williamstown, Pa., December 20, 1891, died 
December 11, 1893, and Samuel George Mor- 
ton, born at Williamstown, October 29, 1894. 

Dr. Enders is a Republican. He is a mem- 
ber of the borough council. In 1887 he was 
a candidate for the State Legislature. He is 
a member of the Senior and Junior Orders 
of United American Mechanics and of the 
Heptasophs. Dr. Enders is a very intelligent 
man, and is in the lead of his profession. He 
is of a very genial nature and is a fluent, 
pleasant talker; hence in social circles he 
is very .popular. He is public-spirited and 
broad in his views, and is a power for good 
in the community. 



Hoffman, John H., merchant and manu- 
facturer, Williamstown, Pa. 

John Peter Hoffman, great-great-grand- 
father of John H. Hoffman, was born in 
Germany in 1709. With others of his family 
and friends he came to America in 1739, in 
the ship Robert and Alice, Captain Good- 
man, arriving in Philadelphia in September 
of that year. He first located in Berks 
county, Pa., where he worked at his trade, 
which was that of a carpenter. During the 
early Indian troubles on the frontier he 
served some time as a soldier in the Pro- 
vincial arm}'. Mr. Hoffman was among the 
earliest settlers in the Wiconisco Valley. 
About 1750 he came to the end of Short 
Mountain, in Lykens Valley, where he built 
a small log house, just across the road from 
the house of Daniel Romberger. Sixty years 
ago this house was used as a smithy. He 
was the contemporary of John Lycan, or 
Lyken, Luclwig Shott, John Rewalt and 
others, and with them was driven off by the 
Indians in their incursions of 1756. 

It was subsequent to this period that John 
Peter Hoffman brought his family to the 
valley. Here he followed farming. He died 
in 1798, at the age of eighty-nine. His re- 
mains, with those of his wife, who had died 
before him, were interred in the field near 
the present house on the old farm now 
owned by Daniel Romberger, before named. 
Mr. Hoffman left issue, among others, as fol- 
lows : Catherine, married Andrew Riegel, 
the head of a large family of that name in 
the "Upper End;" they both reached the 
age of fourscore years ; Barbara, married 
George Buffington, a soldier of the Revolu- 
tion, and the head of the family of that 
name ; Elizabeth, married Ludwig Sheetz, 
the head of a large family of that name ; 
John, born in 1746, married Miss Kauffman ; 
John Nicholas, born 1749, married Margaret 
Harman ; Christian, born 1752, married Miss 
Deiblet. 

John Nicholas Hoffman, great-grandfather 
of John H, was born in Tulpehocken town- 
ship, Berks county, Pa., in 1749. He set- 
tled on the farm now owned by Benjamin 
Rickert, near Short Mountain. He was the 
owner of large tracts of land, now divided 
into a number of farms. He deeded land to 
the congregation of Hoffman church, for 
church, school, and burial purposes. He 
was a soldier of the Revolutionary war, and 
participated in the battles of Brandywine 
and Germantown. His life was an active 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1183 



and useful one. John Nicholas Hoffman 
was married, April 22, 1772, by Pastor 
Kautz, of the Lutheran church, to Margaret 
Herman, also a native of Berks county, Pa. 
They had issue as follows: Catherine, born 
1775, married Peter Shoffstalt; they resided 
near Gratz, and died at advanced ages leav- 
ing a large family ; Susanna, married Levi 
Buffington, a carpenter ; he built the Hoff- 
man church; Sarah, married Jonathan Sny- 
der, they removed to Stark county, Ohio, 
where they were both living about eight 
years ago, upwards of ninety years of age ; 
Margaret, married Alexander Dinger, and 
removed to Crawford county, Pa., she died 
a few years ago, at the age of ninety-eight ; 
Peter, born September 22, 1778, married Miss 
Lubold, he was a soldier of the war of 1812 ; 
Jacob, born 1782, married Catherine Ferree; 
Daniel, born 1784, married Hannah Ferree, 
he was a soldier in the war of 1812 ; Nicho- 
las, born 1787, he was a soldier in the war 
of 1812 ; John, born 1790, was a soldier in 
the war of 1812 ; George, born 1798, resides 
in the town of Gratz, was appointed justice of 
the .peace in 1834. In the war of the Revo- 
lution John Nicholas Hoffman first ranked 
as first lieutenant, afterwards as captain. 
His service was mostly in New York State. 
After the war he occupied his farm at the 
foot of Short Mountain, in Lykens township. 

Jacob Hoffman, grandfather of John H. 
Hoffman, was born in 1782. He purchased 
his father's farm. He was a well informed 
farmer and was exceedingly popular. He 
filled several local offices, and in 1823-24-25 
served in the State Legislature. He was a 
zealous Christian, and prominent in the 
church. His wife, Catherine Ferree, is de- 
scended from an illustrious French family. 
Their children were : Amos, born 1809, 
married Amanda, daughter of the late Gen- 
eral Harper, who, for a number of years, was 
steward of the almshouse, and at present 
resides at Berrysburg; at one time he had 
five sons in the Union army, Col. Thomas 
M., Capt. Jacob F., John H., Edwin A., and 
Henry; Jacob B., resides near Williams- 
town; Hannah, married John Romberger; 
Sarah, married Michael Forney; Catherine, 
married Abram Hess. 

Amos Hoffman, father of John H., was 
born in Lykens township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., May 22, 1809. He was reared a farmer, 
and followed that calling up to the time of 
his retirement in 1870. Amos Hoffman 
was married in his native township in 1837. 
73 



His wife Amanda is descended from a 
noble German family. The first of her an- 
cestors to land in this country was the son 
of an illustrious "German nobleman, his 
father having banished him for some mis- 
deed. His descendants settled in Lebanon 
county, Pa. The children of Amos and 
Amanda Hoffman are : Henry, enlisted at 
the beginning of the late war in the Eighth 
Illinois cavalry, served through the war, be- 
coming blind towards its close from ex- 
posure. Col. Thomas W., enlisted for three 
years at the beginning of the war, was in 
the Seventy-second Philadelphia Fire Zou- 
aves. His regiment was assigned to the 
Army of the Potomac, and he was engaged 
in all battles fought by that army. He re- 
turned home in 1864, raised company A, 
Two Hundred and Eighth Pennsylvania 
volunteers, and was made captain. He was 
later transferred to General Hartranft's 
staff as chief engineer officer of the division ; 
and by reason of meritorious service at the 
siege of Petersburg he was brevetted lieu- 
tenant colonel. He resides in Bethlehem, 
Pa. Capt. Jacob F., merchant at Port 
Trevorton, enlisted during the emergency 
in the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania volun- 
teers. He afterwards became first lieu- 
tenant of company A, Two Hundred and 
Eighth Pennsylvania volunteers, and later 
was promoted to captain of the com- 
pany. He was severely wounded at the 
battle of Fort Steadman. Edwin A., en- 
listed in One Hundred and Third Penn- 
sylvania volunteers, in 1864; was sta- 
tioned near Fortress Monroe, and served 
until the close of the war ; John H. ; Hen- 
rietta, wife of a Mr. Willard, resides in 
Girardville, Schuylkill county, Pa.; Adeline, 
Mrs. Charles Kosier, of Millersbu^. Pa.; 
George, an employee of the ReadmgRailroad 
Company at Shamokin, Pa.; Joseph, super- 
intendent of Standard Oil plant at Millers- 
burg, Pa. 

John H. Hoffman is a prosperous mer- 
chant and manufacturer of Williamstown. 
He was born in Lykens township, on the old 
home farm, November 7, 1846. He received 
a common school education in his native 
place. He was early put to work on the 
farm and could attend school only a few 
months of each year. At sixteen years of 
age he went to Uniontown, Mifflin township, 
Dauphin county, to learn the trade of tan- 
ning, and had served about one and a half 
years when he decided that his country had 



1184 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



need of his services in the army. He en- 
listed at Union town in August, 1864, in 
company A, Two Hundred and Eighth 
Pennsylvania volunteers. His regiment was 
soon after ordered to the front by way of 
Bermuda Hundred, on the James river. 
They lay at Petersburg about six weeks and 
were then transferred to the Army of the Po- 
tomac. After reaching Hatch's Pun, where 
they remained a few days, they were ordered 
to return to Petersburg and were placed in 
General Hartranft's division, doing sueh 
duties as fell to the lot of reserve troops. 
They took part in the Weldon raid. 

Their first regular engagement was on 
March 25, 1865, when the battle of Fort 
Steadman was fought. They were engaged 
in the siege of Petersburg. They followed 
Lee as far as Burkville Junction, where they 
lay until after his surrender at Appomattox 
Court House ; they then returned to Peters- 
burg and City Point, and were transported 
thence to Alexandria, Va., and mustered out 
June 1, 1865. 

Mr. Hoffman then returned home and fol- 
lowed his trade of tanning for a number of 
years. About 1874 he opened a general 
store at Berrysburg, which he conducted two 
years and then located at Williamstown, and 
formed a partnership with Philip C. Swab. 
At the end of two years he sold his interest 
to his partner, and opened a general store at 
Curtin, Dauphin county, which he conducted 
three years, and then sold and was engaged 
in a similar business at Selinsgrove, Sny- 
der county, for five and a half years. In the 
spring of 1885 Mr. Hoffman purchased the 
property and stock of David Clal linger at 
Williamstown, his present site, where he en- 
gaged in business and has built up an exten- 
sive trade. Here, also, in connection with 
John M.Hughes, in the fall of 1895, he 
erected a plant for the manufacture of under- 
wear, equipped with the latest and most im- 
proved .machinery at an outlay of $12,000, 
and employing twenty-five hands. 

Mr. Hoffman was married, at Berrysburg, 
August, 1870, to Miss Mary Swab, a native 
of Berrysburg, Dauphin county, Pa. Their 
children are : Elsie Irene, pupil at Wilson 
College, Chambersburg, Pa.; Edward Har- 
per, traveling man in the employ of Krause, 
Ingham & Heister, Philadelphia ; Charles 
Edgar, at home; Henrietta, at home; Sally, 
died at the age of two and a half years ; John 
Robert, at home ; Carrie May, and Joseph, at 
home. 



Mr. Hoffman is a member of Chester Post, 
No. 280, G. A. R., Williamstown ; master 
mason, Lafayette Lodge, No. 194, Selins- 
grove, Pa. He has been chief burgess one 
year and school director for seven years. Mr. 
Hoffman is a member of the Methodist 
church, and is its trustee and for many 
years its secretary. He is intelligent, genial, 
and hospitable. He is fond of history and 
well versed in it. It follows that he is agree- 
able company and very popular with his 
neighbors. 



Schminky, Gueney M., M. D., was born at 
Gratz, Lykens township, Dauphin county, 
Pa., December 7, 1862. He is a son of Isaiah 
S. and Elizabeth (Wiest) Schminky. 

His father, Dr. Isaiah Schmink)^ was born 
in Lancaster county, Pa. He went to 
Schuylkill county, where his father practiced 
medicine and spent his life. He studied 
medicine at the now extinct Pennsylvania 
Medical College, from which he was grad- 
uated, and afterwards practiced for a very 
short time. While in Schuylkill county Dr. 
Schminky treated a hysterical patient with 
chloroform, which had just then come into 
use ; by this action he created a stir among 
the people to whom that anassthetic was un- 
known. He left Schuylkill county and 
located at Gratz, where he has been in prac- 
tice for forty years. He is Republican ; he 
was a member of the State Legislature for 
two years, and has sat for upwards of thirty 
years in the borough council of Gratz. His 
wife is still living. Their children are: Dr. 
Gurney M.; Allan B., druggist, Philadelphia; 
Harry N., merchant, Woodbury, N. J.; John 
F. M., farmer of Gratz, Pa.; and Bertha M., at 
home. 

Gurney M. Schminky attended the com- 
mon schools of his native place. At the age 
of fourteen he entered Berrysburg Academy, 
where he remained one year, and then took 
a two years' course and was graduated from 
the National School of Oratory and Elocution 
in 1880. During the next year he read 
medicine at home and then took a three 
years' course of study and lectures at the 
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. He 
at once commenced practice at Gratz, Pa., 
and continued there until 1894 ; he then 
located at Williamstown, Pa., where he has 
since remained and has been successful in 
his practice. He is medical officer of the 
borough of Williamstown. He is an Inde- 
pendent Republican and member of the 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1185 



Knights of Pythias and Sons of America at 
Wiiliamstown. 

Dr. G. M. Schminky was married, at 
Gratz, May 13, 1884, to Miss Ida, daughter 
of George W. and Sarah (Geise) Garber. 
They have two children, Albert Garfield and 
Walter M. The Doctor attends the Metho- 
dist church. 



Budd, Capt. Richard, lumberman, Wiil- 
iamstown, Pa., was born in Queen's county, 
Ireland, April 1, 1832 ; son of Benjamin and 
Mary (Lams) Budd. The family of his par- 
ents consisted of the following children : 
Richard; Joho, who went to California in 
1854, and died there some years after ; Will- 
iam, contractor, Wiiliamstown, Pa.; Dora, Mrs. 
Patrick Boerman, of Philadelphia; and Re- 
becca, maiden lady, residing with her brother 
Richard. 

The father died when Richard was seven 
3'ears of age and left a good farm, which was 
sold to an English lord. The family was 
kept together for a year and then, about 
1840, the mother came to America with the 
children. They sailed from Liverpool on 
the sailing vessel Roshes, and after a stormy 
and tedious voyage, landed in New York. 
They came at once to Pottsville, Pa., where 
they remained a few days. They finally lo- 
cated at York Tunnel, Pa., where the mother 
some time afterwards died ; the children re- 
mained together until their marriage. In 
1852 Richard took up his residence at York 
Tunnel, then Otto Colliery, and later removed 
to Mt. Pleasant, Schuylkill county, Pa., 
where he engaged in manufacturing lumber 
under a contract with a Philadelphia firm. 
In 1861 Mr. Budd raised company K, Ninety- 
sixth Pennsylvania volunteers, and was 
made captain. He proceeded with the regi- 
ment to Washington, D. C, and was engaged 
in the siege and Seven Days' battle at York- 
town. He was also in the Maryland cam- 
paign and participated in the battles of 
South Mountain and Antietam. In the 
battle of Charles City Cross Roads he was 
struck by a shell. He was discharged at 
Warrentown Junction on account of disa- 
bility, in August, 1863. Returning home 
he resumed the lumber business. In the 
spring of 1864 he removed to Wiiliamstown, 
of which he was among the first settlers; 
there he has continued to carry on the lum- 
ber business to date. 

Richard Budd was first married, at New 
Mines, Pa., in 1852, to Miss Fanny Robison. 



Their children were : Christopher, residing 
in Armstrong Valley, Dauphin county; 
Benjamin, died young ; John, resides in 
Wiiliamstown, Pa.; George ; William ; An- 
drew ; Richard, and Allan ; Joseph, died 
young; Mary, died aged twenty-four; Annie, 
died aged twelve ; one infant boy died un- 
named. Mrs. Fanny Budd died July 30, 
1880. Captain Budd's second marriage was 
in May, 1889, to Mrs. Eliza Shoemaker, a 
widow ; they have no children. Captain 
Budd is a staunch Republican and has 
served as councilman. He belongs to the 
Sons of Temperance, the Good Templars, 
and to Chester Post, No. 280, G. A. R., of 
Wiiliamstown. He is a member of the 
Sacred Heart Catholic church. 



Lautenbacher, Irvin L., druggist, was 
born in Schuylkill Haven, Schuylkill county, 
Pa., February 21, 1862. He is a son of 
Charles and Sarah A. (Graeff) Lautenbacher. 
His grandfather, Karl Lautenbacher, was 
born at Stuttgart, Germany. He had a farm 
on which was a stone quarry, which they 
worked. He served some years in the Ger- 
man army. The children of Karl Lauten- 
bacher and his wifs Ursula were : John, 
died in Philadelphia, aged eighty-one ; Sieg- 
mund, died in Philadelphia; Charles; Jo- 
seph, resides in Philadelphia; two younger 
children, names unknown. The grandfather 
died in Germany at an advanced age. 

Charles Lautenbacher, father of Irvin L., 
was also born in Stuttgart in 1832. He 
learned the art of making wooden ware, and 
coming to America at the age of eighteen he 
learned marble cutting in Philadelphia. 
His first work was on the Continental Hotel 
of that city. He went afterwards to Kutz- 
town, Pa., where he married. Still later he 
returned to Schuylkill Haven, where he had 
a marble yard, and where he died in 1881. 
His wife survives him. Their children are : 
Jerry C, manufacturer of underwear at 
Schuylkill Haven ; Irvin L.; Flora C, wife 
of William F. McLennon, Gloucester City, 
N.J. Mr. Charles Lautenbacher wasa Repub- 
lican. He was a member of the Evangelical 
church, but was reared in the Catholic 
church. 

Irvin L. Lautenbacher attended the schools 
of his native place, graduating from the high 
school at the age of seventeen. He then 
read medicine for about two years, but finally 
abandoned it for the study of pharmacy. 
He was graduated from the Philadelphia 



1186 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



College of Pharmacy at the end of a four 
years' course. He then returned home and 
opened a drug store, which he con- 
ducted for three years, and then disposed of 
the business. He came to Williamstown, 
bought the drug store of B. W. Watson & 
Son, and has ever since continued in busi- 
ness here with success. 

Irvin L. Lautenbacher was married in 
Reading, Pa., May 10, 1890, to Miss Katie 
E. Schwenk, a native of Schuylkill Haven, 
Pa. They have two children, Joan L. and 
Ruth A., at home. Mr. Lautenbacher is a 
member of Knights of Pythias at Williams- 
town ; of Independent Order of Odd Fel- 
lows, and of the Heptasophs. He is past 
noble grand of the Independent Order of 
Odd Fellows. 



the star pitcher, winning for himself a rep- 
utation in that capacity second to none in 
the country. He is recognized as one of the 
two best pitchers connected with college 
teams. Mr. Bowman is a Republican. He 
was elected treasurer of the borough of 
Williamstown in 1896. 



Bowman, Sumner S., attorney-at-law, was 
was born in Millersburg, Dauphin county, 
Pa., February 9> 1867; son of Simon S. and 
Annie P. (Jackson) Bowman. His parents 
had seven children : Sumner S.; Edmond B., 
at home ; Irene, wife of James S. Hopkinson, 
Philadelphia; Nellie, wife of Hay W. Bow- 
man, Millersburg; Hannah, James Donald, 
and Robert Herr, all at home. 

Sumner S. Bowman attended the public 
schools and was graduated from the high 
school of Millersburg at the age of sixteen. 
He entered Dickinson Seminar}' at Williams- 
port, Pa., from which he was graduated in 
June, 1886. In the fall of the year 1888 he 
entered the University of Pennsylvania and 
took up the study of law, at the same time 
studying under private instructors in the of- 
fice of Biddle & Ward, Philadelphia. Mr. 
Bowman was graduated from the Univer- 
sity of Pennsylvania in 1891. In the fol- 
lowing autumn he was admitted to the 
Philadelphia bar, and in the next spring to 
the bar of the Supreme Court at Philadel- 
phia. In the fall of 1892 Mr. Bowman went 
to Watertown, N. Y., and was admitted to 
the bar there. He became associated with 
Judge Edgar 0. Emerson and remained 
there three years. In the fall of 1894 he 
came to Williamstown and opened a law of- 
fice and has ever since resided and practiced 
here. 

While a student at the university Mr. 
Bowman took an active interest in college 
athletics. He became a member of the uni- 
versity base ball team, in which he became 



Buggy, John P., merchant, was born at Lo- 
cust Gap, Northumberland county, Pa., Octo- 
ber 14, 1866; son of Michael and Ann 
(Cannon) Buggy. His grandfather, John 
Buggy, and Maggie O'Brien, wife of John 
Buggy, both died in Schuylkill county, Pa. 
John Buggy was a miner. Their children 
were: Jeremiah, miner, at Williamstown; 
Michael ; Mary, Mrs. Pierce, Philadelphia ; 
James, miner, at Williamstown ; Annie, Mrs. 
Hallorau, Waterbury, Conn.; Margaret, Mrs. 
Mahar, Williamstown, and John, miner, at 
Williamstown, Pa. 

Michael Buggy was born in Ireland, and 
was two years old when his parents brought 
him to America and settled in Schuylkill 
county, where they died. He became a 
miner, and was so occupied until his death, 
which occurred in 1894, in his fifty-third 
year. He was married, in Northumberland 
county, to Ann Cannon, who survives him. 
Their children are: John P.; Bernard ; Bar- 
bara, in Philadelphia; Michael, lives with 
his brother John P.; Maggie and Isabella, 
at home ; Dionysius ; an infant, deceased ; 
and Mary, at home. Michael Buggy was a 
Democrat. He was a member of the Sacred 
Heart church, and his remains rest in the 
Catholic cemetery at Williamstown. 

John P. Buggy was two years old when 
his parents removed to Williamstown, where 
he was educated in the common schools. 
At the age of eleven he went to work at 
what is called the "breaker" in the coal 
mines, and was engaged in mining until he 
was twenty-six years of age, when, in 1893, 
he embarked in mercantile business in 
Williamstown, Pa. He rented a store room 
and put in a general stock of goods, and has 
succeeded in building up a large trade. Mr. 
Buggy is unmarried, and makes his home 
with his mother. He is a Democrat, but is 
not active in party movements, his whole 
attention being given to his business. Mr. 
Buggy is a member of the Sacred Heart 
Catholic church and of the Ancient Order 
of Hibernians, Division No. 3. 



_ 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1187 



Rowland, James, merchant, Williams- 
town, Pa, was born in Marfortb, Pembroke- 
shire, South Wales, Great Britain, July 29, 
1833. He is a son of John and Margaret 
(Scourfield) Rowland. His maternal ances- 
tors were of Scotch descent. John Rowland, 
his grandfather, was born in Wales, was a 
farmer and died in his native place in 1856. 
John Rowland (2), father of James Rowland, 
was also a native of Wales. He was a farmer 
and died in Wales in 1890. His wife, Mar- 
garet Scourfield, died in 1890. Their chil- 
dren were: Martha, died in Wales; James; 
John, merchant, Bristol, England ; Elizabeth, 
died in Wales; Roger, at Bristol, England ; 
David, and Evan, both in Wales. 

James Rowland was educated in his native 
place and was brought up on the farm. At 
sixteen years of age he was apprenticed to a 
dry goods firm in Swansea, Wales, served 
three and a half years, and has been occu- 
pied in mercantile pursuits to the present 
time. In June, 1865, he sailed with his wife 
and family from Liverpool to New York in 
the sailing vessel City of Dublin, and after a 
passage of thirteen days reached their desti- 
nation. They came at once to Philadelphia, 
and from that city to Minersville, Schuylkill 
county, Pa., where Mr. Rowland opened a 
general store, which he conducted very suc- 
cessfully for five years. At the end of this 
time Mr. Rowland disposed of his stock and 
removed to Wiconisco, Dauphin county, Pa., 
where for four years he was general manager 
in the store of Mr. Goldsmith. Resigning the 
place, he came to Williamstown and bought 
a general store, which he conducted for four 
years. He then bought the property he now 
owns and occupies, which at that time con- 
sisted of two houses and a store. He has 
since rebuilt the store and now has a com- 
modious and convenient edifice in which he 
conducts a large trade and gives employment 
to three clerks. 

Mr. Rowland was married, in Wales, in 
1854. His children are: Margaret, milliner, 
at Williamstown, Pa; Roger, Ella, Trevor, 
and Claud, all at home. Mr. Rowland is a 
strong Republican. His family are members 
of the Congregational church, and he is treas- 
urer of the church and secretary and treasurer 
of the Sunday-school. He is also a member 
of the Knights of Pythias at Williamstown. 



Loague, Rev. H. A., pastor of Sacred Heart 
church, Williamstown, Pa., was born in 
county Donegal, Ireland, June 2, 1842. He 



is a son of Francis Loague, a native of 
county Tyrone, Ireland, and his wife Mary 
Gallagher, born in county Donegal. His 
palernal grandfather, Hugh Loague, was a 
native of county Tyrone, he was patriotic 
and took part in the Irish rebellion of 1798, 
as did Patrick Gallagher, Rev. Father 
Loague's maternal grandfather, and this de- 
votion to their country cost them all the 
property they had. Patrick Gallagher, 
with his family, came to America in 1852. 
He had been a farmer in Ireland, but en- 
gaged in no active business in America. He 
died at the home of his grandson, in Phila- 
delphia. Hugh Loague and his wife died 
in Ireland in the late forties. Besides Fran- 
cis, father of Rev. H. A. Loague, their chil- 
dren were: William, a priest, died in Lon- 
donderry, Ireland, in 1865 ; Hugh, John, 
Rose, Mary, and Ellen, all of whom died in 
Ireland. 

Francis Loague came to tins country in 
1847, and located in Philadelphia, where he 
was employed as nurseryman and gardener. 
In 1850 he sent for his wife and children, 
who sailed from Londonderry on the sailing 
vessel Superior, Captain Moore. They were 
on the ocean eight weeks and three days, 
having been at one time becalmed for three 
days, and at another compelled by a ter- 
rific storm to put to sea again after sighting 
land. They finally reached Philadelphia in 
May, 1850. The father remained in Phila- 
delphia until his death, which occurred in 
1884, at the age of eighty-four. Mrs. Loague 
died in Philadelphia, March 8, 1893, aged 
eighty-three. Their children were William, 
of the Catholic church at Centralia, Pa., died 
January 11, 1892; Rev. H. A.; Eliza, at 
home, in Philadelphia ; Mary, wife of Will- 
iam Murphy, Philadelphia; Patrick, died 
an infant, in Ireland; Rosanna, born in 
Philadelphia, in 1852, died in 1863 ; Joseph, 
born in 1854, died in March, 1876. 

H. A. Loague attended school for nearly 
one year in Ireland. After coming to Amer- 
ica he attended the public schools in Phila- 
delphia until 1857, when he entered St. Jo- 
seph's College, Philadelphia, and there re- 
mained until he had completed his college 
course in 1860. He then studied four years 
at the Jesuit House, Frederick City, Md., 
after which he taught in the Gonzaga Col- 
lege, Washington, D. C, from 1864 to 1867. 
He was subsequently professor in Hoty 
Cross College, Worcester, Mass., until the end 
of 1869, after which he spent seven years in 



1188 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



completing his studies in philosophy and 
theology at Woodstock College, in Mary- 
land, and from 1876 to 1880 was again pro- 
fessor in the Worcester, Mass., College of the 
Holy Cross. 

In 1880 Father Loague went to St. James, 
Mich., to assist his uncle, Rev. F. P. Galla- 
gher, who was out of health. He remained 
with his uncle until October 1, 1883. On 
December 23, 1883, he came to Harrisburg 
and took charge of the Steelton church, 
where he continued until January 9, 1888. 
On that date he entered upon his duties as 
rector of the Church of the Sacred Heart. 
He was ordained to the priesthood at Wood- 
stock College, in Maryland, June 21, 1876. 
In politics Mr. Loague is independent and a 
firm believer in protection. He is an affable 
and agreeable gentleman, of great kindness 
of heart, and of very scholarhy tastes and 
attainments. 



Hess, Solomon, wholesale bottler and late 
proprietor of the Williamstown Hotel, was 
born in Lykens township, Dauphin count}', 
Pa., March 31, 1846. He is a son of Solomon 
and Eva (Saltzer) Hess. Solomon Hess, Sr., 
was born in Northumberland county, Pa., 
in 1814. He was reared a farmer and con- 
tinued in that calling. He was married in 
Dauphin county ; his wife, Eva Saltzer, was 
a native of Berks county. After his mar- 
riage he took up his residence in Lykens 
township. His wife died at Gratz about 
1878; Mr. Hess died in Loyalton, at the 
home of his daughter, Mrs. Daniel Good, in 
1880 or 1881. Their children were : Sarah, 
Mrs. Daniel Good, Loyalton, Pa.; John, far- 
mer, Lykens township ; Catherine, Mrs. 
Michael Horstman, Gratz, Pa.; Harry, hotel 
man, Uniontown, Pa.; Solomon; Cornelius, 
farmer, I^ykens township ; Charles, baker, 
Gratz, Pa., and Reily, laborer. Mr. Hess 
was a Republican. He was a member of the 
Reformed church, and was well known and 
popular. 

Solomon Hess, Jr., attended school at times 
in his native place until he was twenty-one. 
Being reared on the farm, he took his share 
of the farm work, which often prevented his 
going to school. At sixteen years of age he 
drove team, hauling produce to market at 
Pottsville. His father owned and cultivated 
four farms, the products of which he disposed 
of at neighboring markets. The son re- 
mained at home until the spring after his 
marriage. His father paid him at the rate 



of $150 per year, and his board and cloth- 
ing, from the time when he was twent}'-one 
until he left the farm. Being frugal and 
economical, he laid by most of this money. 

Mr. Hess was married, at Uniontown, Dau- 
phin county, June 27, 1869, to Miss Julia 
Ann, daughter of George Paul and Elizabeth 
(Baum) Paul. In the spring of 1870 he took 
up his residence on a farm near Gratz, which 
he rented from his father for nine years. 
February 6, 1879, he removed to Loyalton, 
Washington township, where he opened a 
hotel and conducted it for three years. Af- 
ter this he had a hotel at Gratz for one year, 
then came to Williamstown and rented the 
Mansion House, which he conducted for 
two years. He was afterwards clerk in the 
same hotel for eight months, and then bought 
the Williamstown Hotel, of which he has 
ever since been the proprietor and manager. 
He also owns, another double house in town. 
While in Lykens he lost $1,100 in an insur- 
ance company. On the 6th of April, 1896, 
Mr. Hess rented his hotel business in Will- 
iamstown to J. H. Pontius ; he is now about 
to embark in the wholesale bottling business 
at Tower City, Schuylkill county. Mr. Hess 
takes an active interest in politics as a mem- 
ber of the Republican party. He is a mem- 
ber of the Gratztown Lodge, No. 563, I. O. 
O. F., Gratz, Pa., and of the Patriotic Sons 
of America. 

Mr. Hess' children are: Dora B.; Susan 
A.; John Henry, died young; George E. and 
David S., at home, and Ellis Lloyd, died 
young. Mr. Hess is a member of the Re- 
formed church. 



Lynch, John, plumber, was born in count}' 
Donegal, Ireland, March 21, 1834. He is a 
son of Edward and Ann (Smith) Lynch. His 
grandfather, Owen Lynch, was born and 
reared in county Donegal, and was a weaver. 
He lived and died in his native country. 
His children were : Owen, Philip, Edward, 
Patrick, James, Fanny, and Margaret. Ed- 
ward Lynch, father of John Lynch, was a 
native of county Donegal. He was a shoe- 
maker. He died in his native place in 1866, 
aged fifty. His wife was brought to this 
country by her son, John Lynch, in 1868. 
She died in 1885. John Lynch was their 
only son. 

John Lynch went to the schools of his 
native place and gave his vacations to farm 
work until he was fifteen. In his sixteenth 
year he came to America, embarking at 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1189 



Liverpool in the sailing vessel Esmeralda. 
He reached New York after a voyage of 
seven weeks and three days, landing June 
29, 1848, with one shilling in his pocket. 
He worked at Oceanic, Coney Island, for one 
month as a farm hand, and received $8, with 
which he paid his fare to Easton, Pa.; his 
uncle, John Smith, lived there, who had sent 
him the passage money to come to America. 
After a day or two spent in visiting, telling 
of the friends left behind, and of his adven- 
tures in crossing the ocean, he went to work 
in the distillery of James Thompson, of 
which his uncle was head distiller ; he re- 
mained there eight years. He was next em- 
ployed for six years in the Cooper Iron 
Works, Phillipsburg, N. J. His next posi- 
tion was that of engineer at Frenchtown, 
Hunterdon county, N. J., which he held for 
two years. He then returned to Phillips- 
burg and worked six months for the Cooper 
Iron Company, after which he was employed 
for seven years at Easton, Pa., as engineer of 
the Water Works Company. At the end of 
this time he found employment for one year 
in a distillery at Belvidere, N. J. He was 
thrown out of employment there by the 
shutting down of the distillery on account of 
the $2 internal revenue tax laid on whiskey. 

In 1863 Mr. Lynch went to work at Easton, 
Pa., in the machine shops, and at the end 
of the year located in Schuylkill county, 
Pa., where for five years he was hoisting en- 
gineer in the mines. On March 6, 1868, he 
removed to Williamstown, Dauphin county, 
Pa., and worked in the mines there for nine 
years. During this time he opened a liquor 
store in Williamstown and put his son in 
charge of the business. He also did some 
jobs of plumbing after the day's work was 
over in the mines. In 1877 he abandoned 
work in the mines, and since then has given 
his attention to the plumbing business. He 
built a comfortable house in 1871. Mr. 
Lynch is a Democrat. He has served as 
assessor for the borough for four years. He 
is a member of Sacred Heart Catholic church 
at Williamstown. 

While working at Frederick stown, N. J., 
he went to Easton, Pa., where he was mar- 
ried to Miss Mary Mooney, a native of 
county Donegal, Ireland. Their children 
are: Edward, at home; William, married 
Bridget Cosgrove, resides at Silver Creek, Pa.; 
John, accidentally killed in the mines, at 
the age of twenty-one ; Mary, Mrs. Thomas 
Gallagher, Williamstown ; Dennis, died aged 



four years; Charles, at home; Maggie, wife 
of Joseph Bond, Williamstown ; and Michael, 
at home. 



Budd, William, miner, was born in 
Queen's county, Ireland, in 1834, and is a 
son of Benjamin and Mary (Lawrence) 
Budd. Mr. Budd came to this country with 
his mother, step-father, two sisters and two 
brothers. He first worked in the coal mines 
of New Mines, Pa., and moved to Mt. Pleas- 
ant in 1855. In 1861 he enlisted in com- 
pany K, Ninety-sixth Pennsylvania volun- 
teers, and served two years and a half, when 
he was discharged at Washington, Columbia 
College Hospital, because of disability. He 
then returned to Mt. Pleasant, and in 1865 
moved to Williamstown and engaged in 
mining until compelled because of ill-health 
to quit that work in 1884. He has since been 
able to haul coal. He is a Democrat in pol- 
itics, a member of G. A. R. Post, No. 280, 
and of the Sacred Heart Catholic church. 
He was married, in Mt. Pleasant, in 1855, to 
Miss Sarah Fogan, by whom he had these 
children : Margaret, Rebecca, Bridget, Dora, 
Lizzie, Benjamin, and Francis. 

Evans, Daniel W., foreman of mines, 
Williamstown, Pa., was born May 21, 1843, 
in Pollygwlan, Glan Morganshire, Wales. 
He is a son of William and Mary (Waters) 
Evans. The father was a native of Wales 
and a miner by occupation. In politics he 
was a Republican. He died in Pittston, Pa., 
November 6, 1885. His first wife died in 
Wales in 1853. Their children are: Isaac, 
Henry W., David W., Thomas W., and 
Daniel. His second wife, Sarah, was a sis- 
ter of his first, and by this marriage he 
had no children. 

Daniel W. received his education in the 
schools of his native place. At the age of 
ten years he began work in the coal mines 
and continued until he was twenty-two 
years old, when he came to the United 
States. He sailed- from Liverpool April 17, 
1865, on the City of London, and landed at 
New York, May 1, 1865. He was accom- 
panied to this country by his father, step- 
mother and three brothers. Daniel went to 
Pittston, Luzerne county, and worked in the 
mines for a time and then came to Schuyl- 
kill county and was engaged in the mines 
at the New Philadelphia slope. 

On December 9, 1865, he was married, in 
New Philadelphia, to Miss Dorothy Griffith, 



1190 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



daughter of Nathaniel and Catharine Grif- 
fith. Miss Griffith was born May 5, 1843, 
and is a native of Schuylkill county. Their 
children are: Nathan W., bookkeeper for 
Standard Oil Company, at Wilkes-Barre ; 
Mary, wife of Evan J. Davis, Williamstown ; 
Bertha, wife of Thomas Allan, Williams- 
town ; William, watchman, court house, 
Harrisburg; Benjamin, in English navy, 
now stationed at the Bermudas; Thomas, 
Fred A., Alice, and Carrie. 

After marriage he resided in New Phila- 
delphia for about two years and then re- 
moved to Wilkes-Barre and worked in the 
mines until 1874. He was then engaged as 
foreman in Washington mine at Plymouth. 
In 1869 he assisted in rescuing one hundred 
and eight of the men imprisoned in the 
Avondale mine. He served as foreman at 
Plymouth for six years. Later he worked 
at different places, and in October, 1887. 
came to Williamstown, and has been fore- 
man since that time. While in Wilkes- 
Barre he was president of the Old Miners' 
Benevolent Association. He is now a di- 
rector of the Electric Light, Heat and Power 
Company, and also director of the Motor 
Company. In politics he is a Republican. 
He is connected with the following societies : 
master mason of Nanticoke Lodge, No. 541 ; 
Prospect Lodge, K. of P., Wilkes-Barre; 
Welsh Society, Wilkes-Barre, and Sons of 
Temperance, Williamstown. 



Hain, George W., justice of the peace, 
Williamstown, was born August 18, 1833, in 
Pine Grove, Schuylkill county. He is a son 
of Samuel and Elizabeth (Keifer) Hain. 
The father was born near Sinking Springs, 
Berks county, Pa. He was reared in Pine 
Grove, Schuylkill count}', and was a shoe- 
maker by trade. After following this occu- 
pation for many -years he engaged in the 
hotel business at Lykens, Pa. His death 
occurred in 185S, and his wife died in the 
latter part of the 70's. Their children were: 
Rebecca; John, deceased ; Mary, and George 
W. In politics the father was a Democrat. 

George W. was educated in the public 
schools of his native place and of Lykens 
and Pottsville. His parents located in Sa- 
lona, Clinton county, Pa., then in Mt. Pat- 
rick, Perry county, next at Montgomery's 
Ferry, and finally at Lykens. He drove a 
canal boat from Gurdy's Notch to Philadel- 
phia for some years. He then served as 
brakeman, and later as fireman on the rail- 



road. In 1856 and 1857 he followed the 
canal with his own boat, and about this time 
purchased a house in Lj'kens with the money 
saved while on the railroad. In 1858, upon 
the death of his father, he began to assist his 
mother to conduct the hotel in Lykens, and 
continued to do so until 1861. He then en- 
listed in the Washington rifles. In 1859 
he purchased a farm in what was then 
Wiconisco township, and located there in 
1862, teaching school in the winter. In 1864 
he opened a general store in Williamstown, 
and four years later built a hotel, which he 
conducted several years. He moved to his 
present home, adjoining the hotel, in 1868. 
In 1869 he was iCommissioned justice of the 
peace, and has served continuously in that 
office, with the exception of three years, up 
to the present. In 1876 he purchased a farm 
of seventy-eight acres in Williams township, 
and has since added thirty acres to it. 

He was married, in Halifax, Dauphin 
county, in 1855, to Miss Sarah Woodside, 
daughter of Isaac Woodside. His wife died 
in 1864. Their children are : William ; 
John ; Charles Hemw, deceased ; Emma J., 
Annie, Agnes, and Sadie. He married, sec- 
ondly, Miss Lucy Whitman, of Williams- 
town, in 1875. Mr. Hain is a Republican, 
and cast his first vote for John C. Fremont. 
He is a member of the G. A. R., Post No. 
280, and Lodge No. 675, I. 0. 0. F., of Will- 
iamstown. 



McNamara, Michael, retired, was born 
in Kilkenny count} 7 , Ireland, in 1831, and 
is a son of James and Julia (Brenner) Mc- 
Namara. The father and mother both died 
in Schuylkill county, Pa. Their children 
were : Patrick, Thomas, Andrew, John, Rich- 
ard, Margaret, Mary, all deceased ; and Mi- 
chael. Michael attended school until he 
was fourteen years of age when he came to 
this country with his parents and landed at 
Quebec, Canada. From there they came by 
rail to Schuylkill county, Pa., where he 
worked in the mines until 1866, at which 
time he came to Williamstown, and followed 
mining until 1888, when he retired. Since 
coming to his present home he has built a 
new house and also owns a double block on 
the main street of Pottsville. 

He was married, in Schuylkill county, 
August 3, 1850, to Miss Ann Fagan, born 
August 5, 1833, daughter of Thomas and 
Margaret (Connors) Fagan. She was a na- 
tive of Kilkenny county, Ireland, and came 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1191 



to the United States with her parents, at the 
•age of ten years, settled in Schuylkill county, 
where the parents both died. Their chil- 
dren are: James; Julia; Thomas, deceased; 
Patrick ; Andrew, deceased ; John, Richard, 
Patrick 2d, Margaret, Michael, Thomas 2d, 
Elizabeth, Joseph, and one who died in in- 
fancy. In politics Mr. McNamarais a Dem- 
crat, and is also a member of the Church of 
the Sacred Heart, Catholic. 



Hettinger, Charles, hotel keeper, Will- 
iamstown, Pa., was born in Germany, Janu- 
ary 9, 1846. He is a son of Sixtus and Wil- 
helmina Hettinger. The father died in Ger- 
many many years ago, and the mother died 
when Charles was six years old. Their chil- 
dren are : Adelite, Fictor, Charles, Maria, 
and Johanna. 

Charles attended school in his native place 
until he was fourteen years old. At the age 
of eighteen he sailed from Havre, France, 
for America, and, as he traveled in a sailing 
vessel, did not arrive until forty-eight days 
later. He went at once to Millersburg and 
worked at the trade of mason for four months, 
and then came to Williamstown and began 
mining, which he followed for eighteen years. 
During this time he purchased a hotel, 
which he conducted in connection with his 
work in the mines. In 1884 he stopped the 
latter and has since given his entire atten- 
tion to his business. 

He was married, in Williamstown, in 1869, 
to Miss Josephina Schmeek, a native of 
Poland, Europe. She died in 1890, leaving 
a family of nine children : Mary Ann, Rosie, 
Maggie, Henry, Joseph, deceased, George 
W., Ignatius, Foraniga, and one who died in 
infancy. His second wife was Miss Mary 
Glacer, whom he married in 1894. In poli- 
tics Mr. Rettinger is a Democrat and is also 
a member of the Roman Catholic church. 



Stroup, J. Harry, merchant tailor, Will- 
iamstown, Pa., was born September 6, 1851, 
in Lykens, Dauphin county. He is a son of 
John, and Rebecca (Martz) Stroup. The 
father was born in Lykens township in 1828. 
He was reared on a farm and then learned the 
trade of saddler. Later he began work for 
the railroad company and was one of the 
first engineers on the Lykens Valley rail- 
road. During the war his run extended from 
Lykens to Baltimore. In 1S84 he moved to 
Shamokin and had charge of some miners of 
that place. His first wife died in 1865. Their 



children are : Charles, deceased, J. Harry, 
Edward, and Hattie. His second wife was 
Sarah Shipe. Their children are : George, 
Frank, Arthur, Stella, Edith, Ralph, and 
Katie, deceased. In politics he is a Republi- 
can. 

J. Harry received his education in the pub- 
lic schools of his native place. He assisted 
on the farm until the age of eleven years, 
when he began to learn the trade of tailor- 
ing with John L. Matter, with whom he is 
now in partnership. He served an appren- 
ticeship of five years and then went to Phila- 
delphia and worked for one year. In May, 
1877, Mr. Matter opened a branch store in 
Lykens and one in Williamstown. Mr. 
Stroup took charge of the latter and in 1882 
was taken in as a partner. He was married, 
in Millersburg, Pa., October 9, 1888, to Miss 
Sadie Meetch, a native of Millersburg. 
They have one child, John M. In politics 
Mr. Stroup is Republican, was instrumental 
in securing the borough charter, served as 
councilman two and a half years. In 1893 
he was elected register of wills. He is a 
Mason, twelfth degree, of Swatara lodge, at 
Fremont, Pa., and commandery at Harris- 
bur 
church 



He is a member of the Episcopal 



Blanning, William, merchant, Williams- 
'town, Pa., was born February 29, 1856, in 
Wales, and is a son of Francis and Ann 
(Durbin) Blanning. The father was a native 
of Somersetshire, England, and went to 
Wales at the age of twenty and engaged in 
mining, which occupation he followed dur- 
ing his life. He died in Williamstown, 
March, 1889, and his wife died February 11, 
1877. Their children were : Hannah, Sarah 
Ann, William, James, Harriet, deceased, 
Emily, Alice, John F., Josephine, Priscilla, 
Joseph, Mary Edith, and Samuel. The 
grandfather, John Blanning, was a farmer 
by occupation, and died November 29, 1858 
His wife was a Miss Clotheer. 

William came to America with his par- 
ents, landingat New York in November, 1863. 
From there he came direct to Lykens, and for 
a short time attended school. Four years 
later he moved to Morris Run, Tioga count}-, 
Pa., and after remaining there a few years 
came to Williamstown, where he has since 
remained. Through the kindness of W. B. 
Meetch, a teacher, he was enabled to acquire 
an education, and at the age of twenty-four 
applied for and secured a school in Will- 



1192 



BIOGRAPHICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA 



iamstown, which lie taught very successfully 
for two years. He then attended the Kutz- 
town Normal School, and then taught six 
years in Williarastown again and one year 
in Lykens. He was appointed justice of the 
peace in November, 1895. He was married, 
October 15, 1877, to Miss Bella Yeager, of 
Millersburg. Their children are : George 
F., deceased, Etta Ann, James Ro}', William 
Herbert, Wendall Yeager, and Charles Frank- 
lin. Mr. Banning is an active politician 
and a member of the Republican party. 
He has served as auditor for six years, and 
has been class leader in the Methodist 
church for eight years. 



MISCELLANEOUS. 



Davis, Charles O, was born August 15, 
1830, in Harrisburg, Pa. He was the son of 
John Davis and his wife, Surah Yeager. 
Hisgrandfather was Henry Davis, of a promi- 
nent Welsh fauiihy and an early settler in 
Pennsylvania. He served in the Revolu- 
tion. His grandfather on the maternal side 
was George Yeager, who also was a soldier 
in the Revolutionary war; was at Valley 
Forge and at' the surrender of Cornwallis at 
Yorktown. John Davis, born at Pottstown, 
Pa., in 1795, was by occupation a fuller and 
dyer. He came to Harrisburg prior to 1820," 
in which year he married Sarah Yeager ; he 
died in 1856. His wife, who was born in 
Harrisburg in 1804, died in 1886. Their 
children were three girls and six boys. The 
son Charles C. was educated in the public 
schools of Harrisburg. In 1843 he became 
a marker of the Harrisburg rifles, com- 
manded by Capt. Christian Seiler, and 
was with that company in the Native Amer- 
ican riots in Philadelphia, ordered there by 
Governor Porter to quell the disturbances. 
Subsequently he was lieutenant in Capt. 
Jacob Eyster's cadets, serving with them 
until 1846, when he began his trade as a 
blacksmith. In 1850 he went to St. Louis, 
Mo., and in that city and other localities in 
the Southwest he worked at his trade until 
1859, when he returned to Harrisburg. 

On April 16, 1861, upon the call of Presi- 
dent Lincoln, Mr. Davis was enrolled with 
his five brothers in company I, of the Sec- 
ond regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers, of 
which he was subsequently promoted second 
lieutenant, and on June 15, 1861, first lieu- 
tenant of his company, serving through the 



three months' service. Upon being mus- 
tered out he began to raise companies for 
the Seventh Pennsylvania cavalry for three 
years or during the war. He was commis- 
sioned, September 1, 1861, captain of com- 
pany I, of that regiment. His command was 
sent to the Army of the Cumberland, and 
arrived at Louisville, Ky., on Christmas day, 
1861 ; being mounted they left Louisville in 
January, 1862, for Nashville, Tenn., going 
by way of Bardstown and the Mammoth 
Cave. The Seventh regiment participated in 
all the principal battles and skirmishes 
which took place in the Army of the Cum- 
berland. In April, 1863, Captain Davis was 
commissioned major in his regiment. June 
27, 1863, his regiment engaged the command 
of Gen. Joseph Wheeler, at Shelbyville, 
Tenn. But we will let Brig. Gen. D. S. 
Stanley tell the story of the bravery of Major 
Davis : " The right wing of General Rose- 
crans' army had driven the left of the Con- 
federate army, which was here a division 
of cavalry, commanded by Gen. Joseph 
Wheeler, into the town of Shelbyville, Tenn., 
when Wheeler's force of three thousand men 
formed line just at the northern outskirts of 
the town to defend their stores. A battery 
of four guns, pointing north, commanded 
the principal turnpike. This battery 
was well supported by dismounted cav- 
alry, right and left. It was decided to at- 
tack the center of this line and ride over the 
battery. The Seventh Pennsylvania cavalry 
was selected for this purpose, supj^orted by 
the Fourth United States cavalry. The pike 
being narrow, the charge was made in col- 
umns of four. Major Davis' position would 
have placed him on the right of the second 
squadron, but he volunteered to lead the 
charge and put himself in front of the lead- 
ing set of fours. At the signal of two can- 
non shots from our guns, the column dashed 
from the pike, receiving only one round from 
the hostile battery, rode over the guns, 
routed the supports, and put the entire sup- 
port opposed to precipitate and disastrous 
fright. The boldness of the attack assured 
its success. Only one shell struck the col- 
umn, killing two men and three horses in 
the charge. Our captures were three hun- 
dred prisoners, the battery complete, and 
large amount of stores. A more gallant 
charge was never made, and Major Davis 
rode well in front of the leading sabres, the 
beau ideal of a most magnificent trooper." 
It was for this distinguished action of 






DAUPHIN COUNTY. 



1193 



Major Davis the medal of honor was 
awarded to him by the Secretary of War of 
the United States on the 14th of June, 1894, 
and in granting the medal that officer 
stated that Major Davis "led what was 
probably one of the most desperate, and at 
the same time successful, cavalry charges of 
the war." On the 28th of November, 1863, 
Major Davis re-enlisted the regiment and, 
returning East, in one month's time re- 
cruited the regiment to eighteen hundred 
men, which the Government allowed to be 
done. In March, 1864, he was appointed 
inspector of fortifications, entrenchments, 
and blockhouses, on General Starkweather's 
staff. After many severe engagements with 
Forest's cavalry he resigned on account of 
disability, receiving an honorable discharge 
by order of Gen. George H. Thomas, Octo- 
ber 14, 1864, after three and a half years of 
hard and active service. For the past eight 
years Major Davis has held an important 
position in the Harrisburg postoffice, and is 
one of the chief examiners on the board of 
the civil service commission, postoffice de- 
partment, at Harrisburg. Major Davis 
married, in 1855, Eliza Davis, of Knoxville, 
Tenn. 



Armor, William Crawford, was born 
September 19, 1842, at Laughlinstown, West- 
moreland county, Pa., his father, John G. 
Armor, being a life-long merchant and far- 
mer of that place. He was the second of a 
family of seven sons, four of whom were vol- 
unteer soldiers in the war of the Rebellion. 
His great-grandfather, James Armor, was a 
lieutenant in the Fourth Pennsylvania Line 
in the Revolution under Gen. Anthony 
Wayne, and was complimented by that 
officer in a letter to the supreme executive 
council. His great-grandmother, Margaret 
Armor, was the daughter of John Whitehill, 
of Lancaster county, of whom it is said : " He 
was an ardent patriot, and came into promi- 
nence at the commencement of the Revolu- 
tion ; appointed one of the justices of the 
common pleas count; member of Assembly, 
resigning his "commission as judge; chosen 
one of the council of censors ; member of the 
supreme executive council ; under the Con- 
stitution of 1790 appointed an associate 
judge of the county of Lancaster; a trustee 
and elder of the Presbyterian church at Pe- 
quea for many years. The Revolutionary 
war brought him to the front, and he proved 
to be like his compeers, a person of indomit- 



able courage and vigor of intellect, and was 
ever tenacious of Republican principles." 

The great-great-grandfather, Robert Ar- 
mor, of Scotch descent, emigrated from the 
north of Ireland to this country prior to 
1810. In 1734 he took up a tract of two hun- 
dred acres of land at the head of Pequea 
creek, Lancaster county, and was a farmer 
during his life. 

The subject of this sketch received a com- 
mon school education. While in his sixteenth 
year he taught a large school in his native 
town, being several years the junior of many 
of his scholars. He entered a preparatory 
school in Cumberland county, with a college 
course in view; but untoward circumstances 
changed the tenor of his life, and a good but 
practical father, consigned him to learn the 
iron moulding trade, at which he was duti- 
fully engaged when the war of the rebellion 
broke out. Enlisting in company B, Twenty- 
eighth Pennsylvania volunteers, he rose to 
the command of his company, was wounded 
at Antietam and Chancellorsville, appointed 
aide-de-camp to Maj. Gen. John W. Geary, 
Second or White Star division of the Twelfth 
and Twentieth corps, brevetted major for 
" gallant and meritorious conduct in the 
campaign of the Carolinas." At the siege of 
Savannah he was specially assigned by Gen- 
eral Geary to command the "flying bridge 
detail," which was to bridge, with bundles 
of sugar cane, the dikes, or canals, in front 
of the rebel works, for the storming party to 
pass over in the grand charge outlined by 
General Sherman. This " forlorn hope " 
was saved " to fight another day " by the 
very obliging retreat of the enemy the night 
before. During the progress of the war he 
was twice appointed to West Point, but de- 
clined the honor, preferring to keep his con- 
tract as he had " enlisted for the war." Af- 
ter serving four years and one month, with 
never a day in the hospital except when 
wounded, he retired to civil life, declining 
the urgent solicitations of prominent gen- 
erals to enter the regular ar.my. 

After a year spent in the oil region his old 
commander, who had been elected governor, 
proffered him a confidential position near 
him as executive clerk. During his stay of 
six years in the executive dejmrtment he 
wrote the " Lives of the Governors of Penn- 
sylvania, with the Incidental History of the 
State." He was also registered and studied 
law with Attorney Generals Benjamin Harris 
Brewster and F. Carroll Brewster; passed the 



1194 



BIO GRAPHIC A L ENGYCL OPEDIA 



full list of examinations set by his precep- 
tors, but never applied for admission to the 
bar, having selected a mercantile life. After 
spending six years in Pittsburgh, in the 
wholesale glass business, he was compelled by 
failing health to change his occupation and 
lead an outdoor life. He became engaged in 
the production of oil in McKean county, and 
for four years was co-editor and proprietor 
of The Petroleum, Age, a magazine of oil, 
whose statistics and varied reports were the 
standard of trade reference. After an eight 
years' sojourn in oildom he again removed 
to Harrisburg and served two years as an 
assistant in the State library ; was for one 
year librarian of the Harrisburg Public Li- 
brary, and is now a life member of the same. 
Is a charter member of Post 58, .G. A. R., 
also of the Dauphin County Historical So- 
Society and now its secretary ; is secretary 
and treasurer of the Harrisburg Under- 
writers' Association ; a member of the Scotch- 
Irish Society of America, and has compiled 
for it "The Scotch-Irish Bibliography of 
Pennsylvania." All his life a lover of books 
he is in his element as the proprietor of a 
large antiquarian book store, and in connec- 
tion with it has a varied collection of an- 
tiquities devoted to the pleasure of his visitors 
and friends. 



Fisher, George, the son of George Fisher 
and his wife Hannah, daughter of Jonas 
Chamberlain, was born in what is now Mid- 
dletown, in 1765. His father laid out the 
town, naming the same. The original an- 
cestor came from England with William 
Penn in 1682. George Fisher, the subject of 
this sketch, received a good education and 
graduated from the College of Philadelphia, 
now the University of Pennsylvania, He 
studied law with John Wilkes Kittera at 
Lancaster and was admitted to the Dauphin 
county bar at the November term, 1787. He 
soon rose into prominence in the early days 
at the Dauphin court, which has always been 
conspicuous for the brilliancy of its legal 
profession. Mr. Harris, in his " Reminis- 
cences of the Bar," speaks thus of Mr. Fisher : 
" He was possessed of mild, gentlemanly 
manners, and was kind in his intercourse 
with the young members of the bar. He 
had a ruddy complexion, a fine face, and a 
handsome head. He was a large man; in 
his youth was probably quite strong, and 
was quite fleshy toward the end of his pro- 
fessional career. He was remarkable for the 



musical character of his voice, and the dis- 
tinctness of his utterance. . . . He was ex- 
tensively engaged in litigation in ejectment 
cases depending on original title, which were 
then a fertile subject of dispute in our courts 
and in those of the neighboring counties." 
Without doubt he was one of the most suc- 
cessful practitioners at the Dauphin county 
bar during his lifetime. When General La- 
fayette visited Harrisburg he was selected 
as the man to welcome that distinguished 
Revolutionary officer to the city of Hariis- 
burg, and in our youthful days we heard his 
address upon that occasion enthusiastically 
spoken of. 

Mr. Fisher died at his residence near Mid- 
dletown, Thursday, February 2, 1858, at the 
advanced age of eighty-seven years. He left 
two sons who became quite distinguished in 
the law, John Adam Fisher, of Harrisburg, 
and Robert J. Fisher, who was judge of the 
York district for several terms. George 
Fisher was a popular lawyer, and occupied 
a high position not only at home, but at the 
bars of Carlisle, Sunbury, Lebanon, Lancas- 
ter and York; and few causes of magnitude 
or importance were tried during a long 
period in which he was not one of the lead- 
ing counsel. He managed these matters 
with great tact and judgment, and his influ- 
ence with the jury seemed almost magical. 
He was a Federalist in politics, firm, sub- 
stantial, and honest in his creed. A man of 
great vigor of intellect; eloquent and forci- 
ble as an advocate, and as a gentleman of the 
old school dignified, yet kind and polite. 



Jordan, Thomas Jefferson, son of Ben- 
jamin Jordan, and his wife, Mary Crouch, 
was born at Walnut Hill, Dauphin county, 
Pa, December 3, 1821 . Through his mother 
he was descended from two Revolutionary 
heroes, Capt. James Crouch and Gen. James 
Potter, while his grandfather Maj. Thomas 
Jordan was an officer in the militia in the 
struggle for independence. Thomas Jordan 
received a good classical education, studied 
law with George W. Harris, at Harrisburg, 
and was admitted to the Dauphin county 
bar February 6, 1843. He remained in 
the active practice of his profession until the 
breaking out of the Civil war. On the day 
after the firing on Fort Sumter, he was mus- 
tered into service as an aide, with the rank of 
major, on the staff of Gen. William H. Keim, 
and the first action in which he participated 
was the battle of Falling Waters, where Geu- 






__ 



W COUNTY. 



1195 



eral Keim defeated a brigade/i 
then Colonel, "Stonewall" Ja 
the expiration of the three m 
Major Jordan assisted in recr 
ment of cavalry, subsequently i 
Ninth Pennsylvania, of which I 
missioned major October 22, 1£ ] I 
vember, following, he proceed d 
regiment to Louisville, Ky., w 
ported to General Buell. In tl. 
Major Jordan was engaged in th , 
Lebanon, and Spring Creek, Ter- 
Hill, Tomkinsville, Glasgow, and I 
Ky. He was captured July 9 
Tomkinsville, Ky., by John Mc 
with a force of over two thousar 
tacked Major Jordan, then in co ■ 
the post with only two hundred : i 
men ; but so brave was the defense 1 1 
the battalion lost ten killed, fourteer. 
and nineteen prisoners, Morgan 
seven killed and one hundred i 
wounded. He was a prisoner 
Thunder, Richmond, Va., until De< 
1862, when he was exchanged. He 
to duty at once. After numerous 
ments Major Jordan was promoted 
uary 13, 1863, to colonel of his r 
At Thompson's Station, Tenn., March 
Colonel Jordan, with his regiment,foi 
way back to Franklin, Tenn., brinj ■<■ 
two hundred and twenty prisoners, 1 l 
with the entire artillery and baggagt 
and all the wounded that the amb 
could carry, while Colonel Coburr 
thirty-eight hundred infantry was ca 
For this heroic part borne by Colon 
dan's regiment in this action, it was 
tioned honorably in special orders by ' 
eral Rosecrans. On September 5, 
Colonel Jordan with his regiment att 
and routed an entire brigade of Wht 
cavalry, under command of General D< 
capturing two hundred and ninety-four 
oners, a large portion of whom had 
wounded by the sabre. For this gallar 
tion he was placed in command of all 
cavalry in Tennessee and cleared the ' . 
of the invaders. Complimentary or 
were issued by General Van Cleve, at J . 
freesboro, General Milroy,at Tullahoma, 
General Stedman, at Chattanooga. On : 
" march to the sea," Colonel Jordan's brav 
was displayed on numerous occasions, i 
from Savannah to the close of the war ] 
commanded the First brigade, First cava, 
division, Army of the Mississippi. On F( 
ruary 3, 1865, his regiment crossed the ' 



vannah river for the campaign in South 
Carolina, at Averysboro, N. O; his brigade 
encountered the garrison of Charleston, 
strongly entrenched. In this engagement 
his regiment lost heavily in killed and 
wounded, particularly among the officers. 
At the battle of Johnston's Station, S. O, 
Colonel Jordan's regiment by heroic fighting 
saved General Kilpatrick from probable de- 
feat, and in February, 1865, " for gallant and 
meritorious service," he was brevetted brig- 
adier general of volunteers. In March, 
1865, he received the surrender of the city of 
Raleigh, and was at the front when Gen. 
Joseph Johnston surrendered to General 
Sherman. After being mustered out of ser- 
vice July 18, 1865, General Jordan returned 
to Harrisburg, and for a time resumed the 
practice of his profession. He subsequently 
engaged in the lumber business in Williams- 
aort. Later on he removed to Philadelphia, 
and for awhile held a position in the post- 
iffice, while subsequently he occupied a 
iosition in the United States Mint. He died 
a Philadelphia, on the 2d day of April, 
895, leaving a wife and two children, a son, 
'avid Wilson Jordau, the artist, and a 
I aughter, who is the wife of Rev. Leonard 
'oolsey Bacon, of Connecticut. 



Knipe, Joseph Farmer, was born March 
, 1823, in Mt. Joy, Lancaster county, Pa. 
iis parents were Henry Knipe and his 
fe, Elizabeth Farmer. His ancestors on 
ie paternal side came from Manheim, Ger- 
;ny, prior to the Revolution, a brother lo- 
ing in what is now Montgomery county, 
' , another brother in what is now Lebanon 
■ uity, near Schaefferstown. The son was 
cated in private and public schools in 
..lheim and Lebanon, subsequently learn- 
the trade of boot and shoe business in 
ladelphia. In 1842 he enlisted in the 
■ ted States army, and participated in the 
■ war in Rhode Island. In 1845 he went 
his command to Texas, serving under 
aeral Taylor. He participated in the 
can campaign until the 1st of August, 
and was the last man to leave The Mole 
3ra Cruz with the American flag. In 
ler following he came to Harrisburg 
resided there as an employee of the 
sylvania Railroad Company. Being 
agent at the breaking out of the war 
ured leave of absence to enter the vol- 
service, and on the 17th day of April, 
le named the place of organization of 
nnsylvania troops, Camp Curtin. In 



1196 



Bl GRA PHI GAL EN CI C t\ OPE MA 



the three months' service he was brigade in- 
spector of Brigadier General William's staff. 
On the expiration of this service he organ- 
ized a regiment which became the Forty- 
sixth Pennsylvania volunteers, in which he 
was commissioned colonel, August 1, 1861. 
This was under the call of the President for 
three hundred thousand men. The first flag 
presented to the Pennsylvania regiments by 
the Governorof the Commonwealth was given 
to the Forty-sixth Pennsylvania. Colonel 
Knipe served with the regiment as its com- 
manderuntil the eve of the battle of South 
Mountain. He had been previously wounded 
at Cedar Mountain on the 9th of July, 1862, 
but on General Lee's crossing the Potomac for 
the invasion of the North, he hastened to the 
front, being assigned to the First division of 
the Twelfth army corps. His brigade par- 
ticipated in the battles of South Mountain 
and Antietam, and greatly distinguished 
itself at Chancellorsville. Still suffering from 
his wound Colonel Knipe was sent by Gen- 
eral Slocum to Acquia Creek, and afterwards 
to his home. Just previous to the second 
invasion of the North by General Lee's army, 
he was ordered by General Halleck to the 
Department of the Susquehanna, to report to 
General Couch for light duty. He was as- 
signed by that officer to the command of the 
militia, and ordered to the front. His com- 
mand advanced as far as Smokytown, when 
meeting the advance of Lee's army, grad- 
ually retarding the movements of Lee, whose 
advancing columns reached to within three 
and one-half miles of Harrisburg, when as- 
certaining that there was a large force at 
Fort Washington, the enemy fell back towards 
Gettysburg. Subsequently General Knipe, * 
in company with. Gen. Baldy Smith, was 
sent up the Valley, joining the main army 
under General Meade. Relieved by General 
Couch, General Knipe rejoined his old; 
command, then the First brigade, First 
division of the Twelfth army corps. He 
served under General Meade until the 
Eleventh and Twelfth army corps wen ; 
withdrawn and sent westward, where thev 
reported to General Rosecrans. After th ; 
battle of Chickamaugua General Grant was i 
sent to relieve the former. Upon the reor - 
ganization of the army subsequent to th s 
battles of Wauhatchie, Lookout Mountair i 
and Missionary Ridge, the Eleventh an d 
Twelfth corps became the Twentieth, wit h 
General Hooker in command. Gener f 1 
Knipe participated in all the battles fro .1 
Chattanooga to Atlanta. Upon the fall ! of 



the lattir, General McPherson having been 
killed, < enej'al Howard was j^laced in com- 
mand c" the Army of the Tennessee and 
Genera Knipe assigned as chief of cavalry. 
He wa.' subsequently sent to Memphis to or- 
ganizethe cavalry on the left bank of the 
Mississppi, belonging to the Army of the 
Tennosee. That duty performed, the Gen- 
eral ntnrned to headquarters at Nashville 
and fiund all communication cut off. He 
then icported to General Thomas for active 
service and was assigned to the Seventh 
division of cavalry, and participated in the 
fight: at Nashville. After this battle his 
position placed him in advance, and he pur- 
sued Hood's rear guard, which consisted of 
the krigades of Newsen and Hunter. He cap- 
ture! some six thousand men and eight col- 
ors, more prisoners than his own command 
consisted of. After the Nashville campaign 
he fras ordered to proceed to the headquar- 
ter-) of the Department of the Gulf and re- 
port to General Canby. His command co- 
operated until the capture of Mobile, when 
he-was ordered to New Orleans to organize 
thl cavalry to send to Texas against Kirby 
S/.aith, who was still holding out, General 
i\ ,|eridan commanding the department. At 
General Knipe's request he was relieved 
from duty and reported to General Thomas 
at Nashville, where he was mustered out of 
service on the 16th of September, 1865. For 
jheritorious and gallant conduct General 
Knipe was commissioned a brigadier general, 
May 29, 1862. He was recommended for 
promotion by no less than three of his com- 
manding officers. After his retirement he 
was offered a colonelcj' in the United States 
army, which he declined. On the 9th of 
April, 1866, President Johnson appointed 
General Knipe postmaster at Harrisburg, 
which was confirmed by the Senate the fol- 
lowing month. He remained in office until 
after the election of General Grant. For 
several years he was in active business in 
Harrisburg and afterwards postmaster of the 
House of Representatives at Washington. 
In 1880 he was appointed by General Meigs 
to a position in the quartermaster's depart- 
ment at Fort Leavenworth, where he re- 
mained until 1889, that office then being 
abolished. The General returned to Penn- 
sylvania and subsequently to Harrisburg, 
where he resides and now holds a position 
in the State Department at Harrisburg. Gen- 
eral Knipe married, March 7, 1851, Eliza 
Hagan, who died in 1876. They had a 
family of eight children. 


















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